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Disclaimer: I got access to a pre-release version of the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1. DJI did not ask me to write this review, nor did they have any insight into it beforehand. Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 

On 23 April 2026, DJI released the new Lito series, a brand new line of drones, starting with the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1. This new line of drones is set to replace the Mini branding (not Mini Pro!) and is aimed at the lowest end of the market. I got the chance to test the Lito 1 & Lito X1 several weeks before its release, allowing me to thoroughly find out what these new drones have to offer for aerial & drone photographers. I took both of them on my recent trip to Madeira for some videography and then gave them a proper test in some of the rougher weather Iceland has to offer.

If you are interested in learning what the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1 have to offer from a photographer’s perspective, and how they compare to the DJI Mini 5 Pro, then make sure to continue reading!

You can now get 30% off the Drone Photography Masterclass. Scroll down below to enjoy the offer!

Is The DJI Lito X1 Worth It? My Quick Verdict

For a first drone, yes. If still image quality is why you’re buying, I’d spend more and get the DJI Mini 5 Pro.

The Lito X1 is the better of the two Lito drones. Compared with the Lito 1 it gets a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor and forward-facing LiDAR. It also shoots 4K at up to 100fps with D-Log M and stays under 250 grams. I flew it in Madeira and then in some of the rougher weather Iceland has to offer, and it coped with the wind better than I expected from something this small. At €419 (£369) for the drone alone at launch, it’s roughly half the price of the Mini 5 Pro.

Buy it if you’re new to drones, or if you mostly shoot video and want something affordable. Skip it if you’re buying a drone for its stills: the dynamic range runs out in high-contrast light and there’s no true vertical shooting. The 48MP mode doesn’t rescue it either, as it doesn’t give you real extra detail. The DJI Mini 5 Pro has more dynamic range and a gimbal that rotates for true vertical shots, in the same weight class.

Here’s how the three compare on the specs behind my verdict. The full spec tables are further down.

DJI Lito 1 DJI Lito X1 DJI Mini 5 Pro
Sensor DJI Lito 11/2-inch DJI Lito X11/1.3-inch DJI Mini 5 Pro1-inch
Video DJI Lito 14K/60fps, 4K/100fps slow motion DJI Lito X14K/60fps HDR, 4K/100fps, D-Log M DJI Mini 5 Pro4K/60fps HDR, 4K/120fps, D-Log M & HLG
Obstacle sensing DJI Lito 1Omnidirectional DJI Lito X1Omnidirectional + forward LiDAR DJI Mini 5 ProOmnidirectional + forward LiDAR
Internal storage DJI Lito 1None DJI Lito X142GB DJI Mini 5 Pro42GB
True vertical shooting DJI Lito 1No DJI Lito X1No DJI Mini 5 ProYes
Weight & EU/UK class DJI Lito 1Under 250 g, C0/UK0 DJI Lito X1Under 250 g, C0/UK0 DJI Mini 5 ProUnder 250 g, C0/UK0
My verdict DJI Lito 1Casual flying in decent light DJI Lito X1The best first drone of the three DJI Mini 5 ProThe one to buy for stills

Who Is The New Lito Series (DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1) For?

Before I delve into the features & photography side of the new Lito (pronounced /ˈlaɪ.toʊ/ – similar to “Lai-toh”) series, I feel it’s important to set expectations by sharing who the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1 are aimed at. DJI aims the Lito 1 & Lito X1 at primarily young people who are looking to purchase their first camera drone. In other words: these drones are aimed at total beginners. If you are new to flying, you can pick up the fundamentals with my online drone photography course. The goal with these new Lito drones is to balance great performance, with a very affordable price point, in a small & convenient package.

The brand-new Lito series, consisting of the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1, is a line of drones that is aimed at beginning drone flyers.

You may argue that the DJI Mini 5 Pro is already filling those shoes, and I would partially agree with that. In general, sub-250 gram drones have become incredibly popular. This isn’t only attributed to their cheaper price point and light weight but also that sub-250 gram drones generally are not as restricted as bigger drones. In Europe, for example, there is currently no need to get a license in order to fly a C0 (sub-250 gram) drone which seems to be a huge benefit for most people. I don’t particularly think that should be a showstopper to buy a bigger drone, given how easy the tests are, but it does seem to be an important factor for many. However, recently, regulations have been tightening in some places, also requiring licenses for sub-250 gram drones.

I think the biggest differentiator of the Lito series compared to Mini 5 Pro is their aggressive price point. At roughly half the price of the Mini 5 Pro, these drones are set to undoubtedly become extremely popular.

Is This The End Of The DJI Mini Pro Line-Up?

No! It is important to note that DJI Lito 1 & Lito X1 are only replacing the Mini branding. The Mini line of drones includes, for example, DJI Mini 4K & DJI Mini 3. However, this should not be confused with the Mini Pro branding, which I am being told will continue to be updated as you’d expect given how popular these drones are.

Let’s Talk About DJI Lito 1

DJI Lito 1 is a beginner-friendly camera drone that tries to offer a compelling set of features in a small & affordable package. Lito 1 is now the cheapest drone in DJI’s offering and is still quite capable but unsurprisingly misses some features that may or may not matter to you.

Lito 1 has about the size of a Mini 4 Pro and has just about everything you’d come to expect of a DJI drone.

What Are The Main Features Of DJI Lito 1?

Lito 1 is a sub-250 gram drone, and therefore classed as a C0/UK0, with an estimated flying time of 36 minutes. If you live outside of the EU & UK, you may also use the Plus batteries which give you an estimated flying time of 52 minutes.

Lito 1 comes with a 12 megapixel 1/2 inch sensor that can capture 48 megapixel images in high resolution mode. In the video department, DJI Lito 1 offers up to 4K 60fps video and 4K 100fps slow motion video. However, it only offers Normal color mode and does not have HDR or D-Log M color profiles available. Surprisingly, this little drone allows you to shoot up to ISO12800 although I have to note that those images are almost unusable due to noise and color noise.

Perfect for beginners, Lito 1 also has omnidirectional obstacle sensing which allows you to have access to MasterShots & ActiveTrack 360 for automatically tracking all kinds of moving subjects.

Lito 1 is available in a package together with the basic DJI RC-N3 remote controller, which requires a smartphone to be used, and as a Fly More Combo which includes extra batteries.

Photographs Captured Using DJI Lito 1

As you’d expect for a photography-focused review, I went out and used the camera! I spent time on the Reykjanes Peninsula here in Iceland capturing images with Lito 1.

When shooting, I used both the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1 at the same time so all of the similar images were captured under the same lighting conditions, in the same environments. What I found is that the photographs produced by the Lito 1 are quite nice in good light. I was impressed by the pretty accurate white balance & tint but given its low image resolution, you should not expect to crop or make large prints. The images generally look nice and sharp. However, when capturing images at higher ISO ranges, the image quality drops off sharply. In a next section you can find a link to a detailed RAW file comparison I made if you are curious about the details.

The images you will see below are single shots, which have been lightly edited.

Creating HDR Panoramas With DJI Lito 1

Because the DJI Lito 1 is not capable of rotating its gimbal & camera into a vertical orientation, the only way you can get vertical shots is by creating vertical panoramas. However, that doesn’t need to be a bad thing as it is also a way to really push the photographic capabilities of this little drone to the maximum. Creating bracket panoramas, or HDR panoramas, is a great way to get high quality results from even the smallest sensors.

However, there are still limitations… Because of the limited bracketing range (maximum of 5) and the limited dynamic range in the RAW files, the Lito 1 struggles with high contrast scenes.

Below are two examples of vertical panoramas I created for the purpose of this review. In normal lighting situations, you will get nice results with the Lito 1 but when you have high contrast situations, the end results will not be as great as with, for example, the DJI Mini 5 Pro and other more expensive drones.

If you want to learn more about creating HDR panoramas with your drone, make sure to check out the Drone Photography Masterclass.

When you are not photographing a high contrast scene, or with the sun directly behind the drone, you can get quite nice results when creating HDR panoramas.

However, in high contrast-scenes, even a bracketed HDR panorama does not hold up well enough to get a nice result as you can see by the blown out sky.

Examining The DJI Lito 1 RAW Files

If you want to dive into more detail and look at the Lito 1 RAW files, you will be pleased to know that I have published a new blog containing RAW files of DJI Lito 1, DJI Lito X1 & Mini 5 Pro – shot at various ISO ranges. You can download the files and compare them in detail yourself!

Lito 1’s Bigger Brother: The DJI Lito X1

DJI Lito X1 is also a beginner-friendly camera drone but has some extra features up its sleeve compared to Lito 1. You can essentially look at it as a more affordable version of the DJI Mini 4 Pro in terms of specifications although that comparison may not entirely make sense given it does not have a rotatable gimbal.

Lito X1 has the same size of Lito 1 but has a bigger camera and front-facing LiDAR in the front housing.

What Does DJI Lito X1 Offer Over Lito 1?

Lito X1 has all of the features and functionality of the Lito 1 with some improvements. Lito X1 is a sub-250 gram drone, classed as a C0/UK0, with an estimated flying time of 36 minutes. If you live outside of the EU & UK, you can get the Plus batteries which give you an estimated flying time of 52 minutes.

Lito X1 comes with a bigger 1/1.3 inch sensor, that also has 12 megapixel and can capture 48 megapixel images in high resolution mode. This sensor is more capable in low light compared to the Lito 1. In the video department, DJI Lito X1 offers up to 4K 60fps video and 4K 100fps slow motion video, with HDR and 10-bit D-Log M color profiles for those who prefer to color-grade their footage. It also has a better auto-focusing system with a wider focus area and the ability to better focus on nearby objects.

The omnidirectional obstacle sensing has also a slight edge over Lito 1 as it features front-facing LiDAR which allows you to have forward-facing obstacle detection in the dark.

Lito X1 is available in a package together with the basic DJI RC-N3 remote controller, which requires a smartphone to be used, or the standalone DJI RC 2. There are also Fly More Combo sets which includes extra batteries for both of those versions. Finally, there is a Fly More Combo edition that also includes Plus batteries (outside of the UK & EU).

Photographs Captured Using DJI Lito X1

As you’d expect for a photography-focused review, I went out and used the camera! I spent time on the Reykjanes Peninsula here in Iceland capturing images with DJI Lito X1.

When shooting, I used both the DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1 at the same time so all of the similar images were captured under the same lighting conditions, in the same environments. What I found is that the photographs produced by the Lito X1 are quite nice in good light but I was surprised by the inaccurate white balance & tint. Most of the images came out a lot less natural & more “greenish”, which can of course be fixed during post-processing. I felt this was rather odd given Lito 1‘s spot on colors. It should be noted I used a pre-release version of Lito X1 with pre-release software so perhaps this will be adjusted in a software update. Finally, given its low image resolution, you should not expect to crop or make large prints. However, when capturing images at higher ISO ranges, the image quality drops off sharply. In a next section you can find a link to a detailed RAW file comparison I made if you are curious about the details.

The images you will see below are single shots, which have been lightly edited.

Creating HDR Panoramas With DJI Lito X1

As is the case with the DJI Lito 1 , the DJI Lito X1 is not capable of rotating its gimbal & camera into a vertical orientation, the only way you can get vertical shots is by creating vertical panoramas. And again, that doesn’t need to be a bad thing as it is also a way to really push the photographic capabilities of this little drone to the maximum. Creating bracket panoramas, or HDR panoramas, is a great way to get high quality results from even the smallest sensors.

Also with the DJI Lito X1 there are limitations… Because of the limited bracketing range (maximum of 5) and the limited dynamic range in the RAW files, the Lito X1 struggles with high contrast scenes.

Below are two examples of vertical panoramas I created for the purpose of this review. In normal lighting situations, you will get nice results with the Lito X1 but when you have high contrast situations, the end results will not be as great as with, for example, the DJI Mini 5 Pro and other more expensive drones.

If you want to learn more about creating HDR panoramas with your drone, make sure to check out the Drone Photography Masterclass.

Despite the bigger sensor and higher price point, DJI Lito X1 struggles just as much with high contrast scenes as Lito 1. This unedited panorama also shows the green color cast I mentioned well.

However, when you don’t photograph directly into the harsh light, you will get crispy images.

Examining The DJI Lito X1 RAW Files

If you want to dive into more detail and look at the Lito X1 RAW files, you will be pleased to know that I have published a new blog containing RAW files of DJI Lito 1, DJI Lito X1 & Mini 5 Pro – shot at various ISO ranges. You can download the files and compare them in detail yourself!

Why DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1 May Not Be For You

While the Lito 1 & X1 are great little beginner drones at their price point, you may want to look at something more capable depending on some of the downsides to getting the cheapest drones DJI has to offer. Below are some of the downsides that stood out most to me when examining the Lito Series from a photography point of view.

Image Quality

Firstly, the most obvious downside to me is that the image quality of Lito 1 & Lito X1 is not as great as the DJI Mini 5 Pro. By that I don’t mean that you can’t get great results with it but within this category of drones, the Mini 5 Pro is definitely the better option – though it’s more expensive. While Lito 1 or Lito X1 give you nice & crisp images, the quality drops off at higher ISO ranges which is a lot less of an issue with Mini 5 Pro.

However, the reality is that there will always be a better option on the market when it comes to image quality which begs the question whether that which you get from Lito 1 or Lito X1 is good enough for you. If image quality is a bigger concern than price, the Mini 5 Pro is the way to go. If even that is not sufficient, you should be looking at bigger and heavier drones, with more license requirements. What do you value most? Is it price, weight, licensing requirements or image quality?

Want to pixel-peep before you decide? I’ve put the original RAW files from all three drones online so you can compare the Lito 1, Lito X1 and Mini 5 Pro RAW files yourself at 100 % on your own screen. It’s the only way to really see how each new sensor holds up against the Mini 5 Pro in the shadows and the corners.

High Resolution… Or Not?

Additionally, while DJI Lito 1 & Lito X1 are advertised as having 48 megapixels to work with, it isn’t really what you’d expect when talking about a 48 megapixel sensor. I didn’t really find any difference between the 12 megapixel and 48 megapixel photographs. Yes, the high resolution ones are considerably larger files but when looking at the files more closely, there is no real detail increase. Also, by using the high resolution mode, you give up dynamic range which is already quite limited in these budget drones.

This is best illustrated with the example below. From the same angle, I made a comparison between a 48 megapixel (left) and a 12 megapixel (right) version of the same composition. To make the comparison complete, I zoomed in to 100% on the 48 megapixel version, while I zoomed in to 200% on the 12 megapixel version. I see no visible differences in sharpness. It should be noted that I have found this to be the case with any drone that uses quad-bayer technology. During other testing I have found that upscaling the 12 megapixel files during post-processing on such drones sometimes gives you a better result. Food for thought!

DJI Lito 1 – 48 megapixel 100% crop

DJI Lito 1 – 12 megapixel 200% crop

DJI Lito X1 – 48 megapixel 100% crop

DJI Lito X1 – 12 megapixel 200% crop

Vertical Shooting (Or Lack Thereof)

If you value vertical shooting, you may also want to look at a more expensive drone. While there is a vertical crop mode available in video mode, there is no way to physically rotate the gimbal to enable true vertical photography or videography. In video mode, the vertical cropping feature still gives you a decent resolution video of 2.7K but in photography, you will have to make do with a crop on an already low resolution of 12 megapixels.

Limited Software Features

There are also a few software choices that may or may not be dealbreakers to you. When using the Automated Exposure Bracketing feature (AEB), the software only allows you to capture 3-shot or 5-shot brackets (one regular exposure plus 1 or 2 under- and overexposed shots). Because of the limited dynamic range when shooting stills, this could pose issues in high contrast situations. Additionally, while there are various panorama modes available, the Free Panorama Mode is not on Lito 1 & Lito X1. However, these features are all available on DJI Mini 5 Pro.

Wind May Be A Concern

While I was impressed by how well the Lito 1 & Lito X1 handled extremely windy conditions, it is important to note that the flight speed and battery life take a serious hit. If you are someone who often finds themselves in very windy situations, it is imperative you look at a larger drone. Bigger, more capable, drones will have better battery life, fly reasonably fast and stay stable.

Additionally, the Lito 1 & Lito X1 aren’t the most stable for video recordings in windy situations. While these drones are really capable, they do tend to bounce around quite a bit. For photography this isn’t a big deal but for video, it is almost impossible to expect it will remain stable in really windy conditions.

Fly These With Me

Drone Photo Workshops In Iceland & Greenland

The quickest way to find out whether a drone suits you is to fly it somewhere worth photographing. That’s what my Iceland and Greenland workshops are for. I’ll show you where I fly and why I keep some images and delete others.

If a trip up north isn’t on the cards, the Drone Photography Masterclass I made with Nigel Danson covers the same workflow at home: 17+ hours of lessons on planning, flying, composing and editing, with RAW files to practise on.

Aerial drone shot of a deep blue crater lake set in green hills with pink sunset clouds drifting past.

Important: The UK’s & Europe’s 120 Meter Above-Takeoff-Point Altitude Limitation On C0/UK0 Drones

Finally, it is good to know that there are two big caveats with all UK0 & C0 drones when they are bought or even just flown in Europe. Firstly, because of the UK0 & C0 classification, the larger Plus batteries are not available to European customers.

The second caveat relates to the EU drone regulations that went into effect on January 1st 2024, and the new UK regulations on January 1st 2026. Because of these new rules, all sub 250 gram drones (C0 & UK0) have a limitation when flown in Europe/UK regardless of where they were bought originally. The limitation is that they are capped at a maximum altitude of 120 meters above takeoff point. This applies to any sub 250 gram drone sold globally unless you requested it to be unlocked beforehand. This is a major issue for people flying in areas where there are a lot of height differences such as in mountainous areas.

From left to right: DJI Lito 1, DJI Mini 5 Pro & DJI Lito X1

Example: You bought a sub 250 gram drone in the US, where the software allows you to fly higher than 120 meters above takeoff point. If you then take that drone on a trip to Iceland, you will not be able to fly higher than 120 meters above take off point. There is a good deal more to it than the ceiling, and I have written up where you can and cannot fly here in full. When traveling back to the US, you will again be able to fly higher.

Unfortunately, it is also no longer possible to reclassify your drone from C0/UK0 to C1/UK1 which means there is no way to circumvent this limitation, even when you have the correct license.

If you want to know more, I go deeper into this matter in a detailed blog where I advise against investing in a C0 drone, as well as a more detailed look into the new UK regulations.

How Do DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1 Compare And What About Mini 5 Pro?

To make things easier, I decided to list all of the most important specifications so it is easier to understand how Lito 1 & Lito X1 differentiate themselves from each other. And, because I have mentioned Mini 5 Pro a few times already, I also added a third column comparing Mini 5 Pro‘s specifications against the two newcomers.

DJI Lito 1DJI Lito X1DJI Mini 5 Pro
Weight< 250g< 250g< 250g
EU & UK ClassC0/UK0C0/UK0C0/UK0
Sensor Size1/2"1/1.3"1"
Resolution12 megapixel
48 megapixel*
12 megapixel
48 megapixel*
12,5 megapixel
50 megapixel*
Battery Life36 minutes
52 minutes**
36 minutes
52 minutes**
36 minutes
52 minutes**
Photo CapabilitiesUp to ISO 12800
5-shot brackets
Basic Panorama Modes
Up to ISO 6400
5-shot brackets
Basic Panorama Modes
Up to ISO 6400
7-shot brackets
Vertical Shooting
Gimbal Roll Movement
Basic Panorama Modes
Free Panorama Mode
2x near-lossless zoom
Video Capabilities4K 60fps
4K 100fps slow motion
4K 60fps HDR
4K 100fps slow motion
D-Log M
4K 60fps HDR
4K 120fps slow motion
D-Log M & HLG
2x near-lossless zoom
Obstacle SensingOmnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
ActiveTrack 360
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
ActiveTrack 360
Front-Facing LiDAR
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
ActiveTrack 360
Front-Facing LiDAR
Transmission15km range
OcuSync 4
15km range
OcuSync 4
20km range (FCC)
OcuSync 4+
Internal Storagenone42GB42GB
OtherWi-Fi 6 QuickTransfer
Mastershots
Hyperlapse
QuickShots
Wi-Fi 6 QuickTransfer
Mastershots
Hyperlapse
QuickShots
Toolless Propeller Replacement
Wi-Fi 6 QuickTransfer
Mastershots
Hyperlapse
QuickShots

* These are quad-bayer sensors that allow you to shoot at 4 times the base resolution of the sensor. However, in doing so, you give up dynamic range and potentially detail if the drone can not stay steady during image capture. Capturing high resolution images using this technique is also substantially slower.

** The extended flight time on DJI Lito 1, DJI Lito X1 & DJI Mini 5 Pro can only be achieved with a Plus battery. These batteries are not for sale in the UK or EU as that would put these drones above the required sub-250 gram weight for them to remain in the C0/UK0 drone categories.

Conclusion

If you are a total beginner to drone flying and you are in the market for a mini-sized drone, should you get the DJI Lito 1 or DJI Lito X1? The answer is: it depends.

If you are a total beginner to drones with a limited budget, and photographic image quality isn’t your primary concern, the DJI Lito 1 & Lito X1 are great little tools. They have substantial upgrades over the old Mini series, that will undoubtedly make you fall in love with drone flying & drone videography. The convenience of having such a small, yet capable, drone on you at that price point is unbeatable.

However, if your budget is not as limited and photographic image quality is your primary concern, you are better off spending more and buying the DJI Mini 5 Pro (check out my review). The DJI Lito 1 & Lito X1 are great little drones but knowing that within this same size/weight category there is a drone that performs better in the image quality department, pushes me to recommend the DJI Mini 5 Pro over the Lito series.

Get More Out Of The Lito 1 And Lito X1

If you’re buying a Lito, my drone photography e-book shows how I bracket, shoot HDR panoramas and stitch them. Both the Lito 1 and the Lito X1 are in the e-book’s table of available models.

Get the E-book

DJI Lito 1: Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

  • Battery life: rated up to 36 minutes (52 minutes with Plus battery)
  • EU Drone Class: C0
  • UK Drone Class: UK0
  • Weight: < 250 gram
  • Transmission technology: OcuSync 4
  • Maximum video transmission range: 15km
  • Obstacle avoidance: Omni-directional obstacle sensing
  • Maximum altitude at takeoff: 6000 meter
  • Maximum wind resistance speed: 10.7 m/s
  • Maximum horizontal speed (at sea level): 18m/s (Sport mode) & 10 m/s (Normal mode)

The Camera (1x)

  • A 1/2 inch sensor that has 12 megapixels (48 megapixels with quad-bayer technology)
  • A 24mm-equivalent on full frame
  • A fixed aperture of F1.8
  • Video capabilities up to 4K resolution at 60fps
  • Slow-motion video capabilities up to 4K at 100fps

 

A full list of all the specifications can be found on DJI’s website.

DJI Lito X1: Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

  • Battery life: rated up to 36 minutes (52 minutes with Plus battery)
  • EU Drone Class: C0
  • UK Drone Class: UK0
  • Weight: < 250 gram
  • Transmission technology: OcuSync 4
  • Maximum video transmission range: 15km
  • Obstacle avoidance: Omni-directional obstacle avoidance with front-facing LiDAR (works in 0.1 lux darkness)
  • Maximum altitude at takeoff: 6000 meter
  • Maximum wind resistance speed: 10.7 m/s
  • Maximum horizontal speed (at sea level): 18m/s (Sport mode) & 10 m/s (Normal mode)

The Camera (1x)

  • A 1/1.3 inch sensor that has 12 megapixels (48 megapixels with quad-bayer technology)
  • A 24mm-equivalent on full frame
  • A fixed aperture of F1.7
  • Video capabilities up to 4K resolution at 60fps in HDR
  • Slow-motion video capabilities up to 4K at 100fps
  • D-Log M

 

A full list of all the specifications can be found on DJI’s website.

Compare The RAW Files Of Lito 1, Lito X1 & Mini 5 Pro

Because many people will undoubtedly be comparing the new Lito Series with the existing Mini 5 Pro, I felt it would be interesting to put these three models together in another one of my RAW file comparison blogs. Together with this review, I have published a new blog containing RAW files of DJI Lito 1, DJI Lito X1 & Mini 5 Pro – shot at various ISO ranges. You can download the files and compare them in detail yourself!

DJI Lito 1, Lito X1 and Mini 5 Pro drones with their controllers laid out on a car bonnet.

Alternatives To DJI Lito 1 & DJI Lito X1

If you are looking at alternatives to the DJI Lito 1 & Lito X1, I can point you into the direction of my updated drone buyer’s guide. And if you want to go the other way entirely, towards the biggest sensor DJI puts in a folding drone, that is the DJI Mavic 4 and its 4/3 Hasselblad main camera. Different class, different budget, different job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a few quick frequently asked questions that you may find useful.

What Is The DJI Lito Series?

The DJI Lito series is a new line of beginner-friendly camera drones that starts with the DJI Lito 1 and DJI Lito X1. These drones are designed to offer an affordable entry point into drone flying, photography, and videography while staying compact and lightweight.

Who Are The DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 For?

The DJI Lito 1 and DJI Lito X1 are aimed primarily at beginners and first-time drone buyers. They are best suited to people who want an easy-to-fly, sub-250g drone with modern features at a lower price than DJI’s more advanced Mini Pro models. If you’re just starting out, my online drone photography course covers settings, composition and editing to help you get the most from either drone.

Is The DJI Lito Series Replacing The DJI Mini Line?

The DJI Lito series replaces the standard DJI Mini branding, such as the older non-Pro Mini models. However, it does not replace the Mini Pro line, which continues separately for users who want more advanced photography and video features.

What Is The Difference Between DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1?

The main difference is that the DJI Lito X1 has a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, HDR video, 10-bit D-Log M, improved autofocus, front-facing LiDAR, and internal storage. The DJI Lito 1 is the more affordable option and still offers strong beginner features, but with a smaller 1/2-inch sensor and fewer advanced video capabilities.

Is The DJI Lito 1 Good For Photography?

The DJI Lito 1 is good for casual drone photography in decent light. It can produce pleasing images with accurate color and is easy to use, but it is more limited when it comes to cropping, large prints, dynamic range, and high-contrast scenes.

Is The DJI Lito X1 Better Than The DJI Lito 1 For Photography?

The DJI Lito X1 is the more capable drone on paper because it has a larger sensor and better video features, but that does not automatically make it dramatically better for still photography. In real-world use, it offers some advantages, though image quality is still clearly behind more advanced drones like the DJI Mini 5 Pro.

Do DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 Shoot True 48MP Photos?

Both drones offer a 48MP high-resolution mode, but in practice the results do not behave like true high-resolution files from a larger sensor. The extra megapixels do not necessarily translate into noticeably better detail, and dynamic range can be reduced compared to the standard 12MP mode.

Can The DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 Shoot Vertical Photos?

No, neither drone has a rotating gimbal for true vertical photography. If you want vertical still images, you need to create a vertical panorama or crop from the standard horizontal frame.

Are The DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 Good For HDR Panoramas?

They can produce nice HDR panoramas in normal lighting conditions, especially when used carefully. However, both drones struggle in high-contrast scenes because of their limited dynamic range and restricted bracketing options.

How Do The DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 Compare To The DJI Mini 5 Pro?

The DJI Lito 1 and DJI Lito X1 are more affordable and beginner-focused, while the DJI Mini 5 Pro is the stronger option for photographers who want better image quality, more advanced shooting features, better dynamic range, and true vertical shooting. The Lito series is about value, while the Mini 5 Pro is about performance.

Are The DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 Good In Windy Conditions?

Both drones handle wind surprisingly well for their size, but wind still affects battery life, speed, and video stability. If you often fly in very windy places, a larger drone will generally perform better and produce more stable footage.

What Are The Biggest Drawbacks Of The DJI Lito Series?

The main downsides are lower image quality compared to more advanced drones, limited dynamic range, no true vertical shooting, fewer panorama and bracketing options, and weaker performance in high-contrast scenes. For photographers, those limitations matter more than they might for casual users.

Do The DJI Lito 1 And DJI Lito X1 Have Altitude Restrictions In Europe And The UK?

Yes. As C0/UK0 sub-250g drones, they are subject to the 120-meter-above-takeoff-point altitude limitation when flown in Europe and the UK. This can be a major disadvantage in mountainous areas or locations with significant elevation changes.

Should Beginners Buy The DJI Lito 1 Or DJI Lito X1?

Yes, both drones make sense for beginners who want a compact, affordable, and easy-to-use first drone. The right choice depends on whether you want the lowest price possible or are willing to spend more for the extra features of the Lito X1.

Should Photographers Buy The DJI Lito 1 Or DJI Lito X1 Instead Of The DJI Mini 5 Pro?

If photography is your main priority, the DJI Mini 5 Pro is the better choice. The Lito 1 and Lito X1 are good entry-level drones, but photographers who care most about image quality, dynamic range, and more flexible shooting options will likely be better served by stepping up to the Mini 5 Pro.

How Fast Can The DJI Lito X1 Go?

18 m/s in Sport mode, which is about 65 km/h or 40 mph, and 10 m/s in Normal mode. It’s rated for wind up to 10.7 m/s, roughly 38 km/h.

How Much Does The DJI Lito X1 Cost?

At launch on 23 April 2026 the Lito X1 cost €419 (£369) for the drone alone and €579 for the Fly More Combo with the DJI RC 2. Those are DJI’s launch prices.

Can I Buy The DJI Lito X1 In The USA?

Not from DJI. The Lito series launched globally on 23 April 2026 without the United States, and at launch its FCC authorisation was still pending. I cover what that means for US buyers in my post on the DJI ban in the United States.

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The Drone Photography Masterclass

Nigel Danson & Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove‘s complete drone masterclass will explore everything you need to know to start creating the best aerial photographs using any type of drone in 50+ detailed videos. Whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced drone pilot, this video course contains a vast amount of information to level up your drone photography skills.

Drone Photography Masterclass is a comprehensive course designed for drone photography enthusiasts, providing basic to advanced skills training, as well as a community environment of support and sharing.

Yvette Y.

It's great, learning a lot! Jeroen & Nigel are exceptional teachers for learning this stuff!

Paul O.

The masterclass offers valuable insights into the many ways you can find and capture stunning drone compositions and reassures you that your drone can handle more than you might initially think.

Nico D.

I’m a fairly experienced drone photographer, but the masterclass is helping me refine my skills. The content is in easy to consume chunks, allowing me to dip in and out of the most relevant content. The Case Study/vlogs in particular have been fascinating to see the start to finish process of Nigel and Jeroen’s images.

Rhiannon L.

This masterclass is unique and gives many tips that contribute a lot to better drone photos. Both Jeroen and Nigel give this Masterclass in a relaxed and super good way. The technical knowledge that Jeroen and Nigel have is enormous!

Mario V.

I am loving this class. The production quality is excellent and the content is just fantastic. I’ve learned something in pretty much every video I’ve watched so far. I’m taking the course slowly to enjoy it — I don’t want to blast through it.

Josh S.

This class is the best self-paced photography course I've purchased. The instruction is a perfect mix of practical tips on flying and planning as well as artistic commentary about what makes an incredible image and how drones offer unique perspectives for a photographer to explore.

Brian F.

Excellent. I use my drone a lot and thought I knew it all! Now I realize how little that really was!

Matt N.

This masterclass was a total game-changer! From nailing the basics to mastering mind-blowing compositions, it had everything. Loved the focus on safety (no drone disasters here!) and the creative hacks for epic light, shadow, and jaw-dropping perspectives. The critique/ feedback sessions are awesome - Pure gold. Jeroen brought the fiery passion of volcanoes, and Nigel’s storytelling tips were the cherry on top—so inspiring and downright awesome!

Imran K.

The Drone Photography Masterclass is incredibly well-structured, with each module flowing seamlessly and concepts explained with remarkable clarity. The practical examples were perfectly chosen, making the lessons easy to understand and apply. The audio and video quality were excellent, reflecting a professional touch that greatly enhanced the overall learning experience. I also deeply appreciated the valuable insights on creative composition, leading lines, shapes, and storytelling, which went beyond just the technical aspects. This course has been transformative, and I’ve gained so much confidence in my drone photography skills. Amazing work—thank you!

Daniel B.

An Outstanding Course! What truly set this series of instructional videos apart for me was the realism you brought to each session. It wasn’t about perfection or staged setups — you embraced the real-world challenges: snow, rain, midges, wind, even lost drone signals. You were open about your personal fears and mistakes, which made the learning experience incredibly authentic and relatable. Combined with comprehensive coverage of the key topics in landscape drone photography, this made the course absolutely invaluable. Then to top things off, the Master Class Image Critique was a unexpected bonus!

John E.

Discover Jeroen’s Photo Workshops in Iceland, Greenland & Beyond

Ready to take your photography to the next level? Join me, Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove, on unforgettable photo workshops in Iceland, Greenland, Antarctica and other exciting destinations. Whether your passion is wildlife photography, bird photography, landscape adventures, or mastering drone photography, each workshop is designed to give you hands-on guidance in some of the world’s most spectacular locations.

From puffins in the midnight sun to Arctic foxes in the wild, from glaciers and volcanoes to dramatic coastlines seen by drone – these journeys are more than workshops; they’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Group sizes are kept small, ensuring personal mentoring and plenty of shooting opportunities.

All Upcoming Photography Workshops With Jeroen

Explore all upcoming photography workshops with Jeroen and take your skills to the next level in some of the world’s most extraordinary locations. From the volcanic landscapes of Iceland to the ice-filled fjords of Greenland and the wildlife-rich polar regions such as Antarctica, each workshop is designed to help you grow creatively while experiencing unforgettable moments in the field. Browse all upcoming departures below and find your next adventure!

What Previous Participants Shared About Their Experience

Choosing the right photography workshop is about more than just visiting iconic locations. It’s about experience, safety, timing, and personal guidance. Below you’ll find honest reviews from photographers who have joined me on landscape, wildlife & drone photo workshops in Iceland, Greenland and other locations. These testimonials reflect real experiences in small groups, hands-on instruction in challenging conditions, and the level of care Jeroen aims to bring to every workshop.

5.0 from 110 Google reviews

Read all reviews on Google

I had the pleasure of being part of the West/North Iceland 2026 workshop with Jeroen and Mads Peter Iversen. I had already met them both on a workshop in Antarctica and signed up for this smaller workshop without any hesitation. The small group was perfect for continuing my photography eduction and I learned a lot more than I thought I would. Jeroen made himself available to help with settings, composition, and even drone photography techniques whenever I needed him. He’s easy to be with and makes any level photographer comfortable when in a learning situation. Our small group was fun to be with and a large part of that was due to the personalities of both Jeroen and Mads. Thanks for a wonderful week to everyone on this workshop. I highly recommend attending one of Jeroen's workshops without hesitation.

David W.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2026)Google review

Great trip for aspiring and seasoned photographers alike. Kind and honest hosts, great food, and best of all fantastic photo opportunities. Highly recommend.

Victor C.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2026)Google review

It was a fantastic experience, I learned a lot and the engagement with the workshop leaders and other attendees was excellent. I would highly encourage anyone to book a workshop on Jeroen's website. I am planning to rebook with him in the future to explore the highlands.

Ramon J.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2026)Google review

It was a fantastic, intensive, and highly varied week. Anyone who loves Iceland and wants to delve deeper into drone photography simply has to take part in a workshop like this. Jeroen is a true professional with excellent equipment. His 4x4 took us everywhere, his large DJI battery kept our drones in the air, and his Starlink kept us connected even in the most remote locations.

Siegfried S.★★★★★Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Photo Workshop (August 2026)Google review

I've attended many photography workshops over the years, but Jeroen's aerials workshop stands out as one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. Jeroen is not only an exceptional drone photographer but also an outstanding instructor, and his ability to combine technical expertise with artistic vision made every session inspiring. Every day was filled with breathtaking locations, valuable insights and a genuine passion for helping each participant improve. I arrived in Iceland with almost no experience flying drones, and in just one week my confidence grew from 1 to 100. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to take their drone photography to the next level.

Norberto S.★★★★★Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Photo Workshop (August 2026)Google review

Jeroen is an amazing guide, teacher and importantly a wonderful person with a great sense of humor. The small group made it the best workshop I have ever been on! The 6 days were packed with so many amazing location it felts like 2 weeks. I will book another workshop with Jeroen on the future.

Shane J.★★★★★Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Photo Workshop (August 2026)Google review

I attended Jeroen´s Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Workshop in August ´26 which was well organised and a great experience. Being a small group of only 3 participants, Jeroen was able to provide individual attention. I gained confidence in flying my drone beyond my comfort zone.

Gavin K.★★★★★Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Photo Workshop (August 2026)Google review

I recently completed a photography workshop in the Highlands with Jeroen, and it exceeded all my expectations. Jeroen's knowledge of Iceland's interior is amazing, from navigating rough F-roads and tricky weather conditions to putting us in the exact right spot at the right time for incredible light. Going into the trip, my drone skills were fairly beginner-level, but Jeroen was fantastic at giving me hands-on guidance, composition advice and technical tips, while also giving me the space I needed to practice on my own. Over the course of the week, my flying and aerial photography improved by leaps and bounds. We had a small, nimble and lighthearted group and Jeroen was the perfect leader!

David★★★★★Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Photo Workshop (August 2026)Google review

I have admired Jeroen's work for a long time, so I joined the Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands workshop with very high expectations. His knowledge of the Highlands is exceptional, and his flexibility in adapting the workshop to the weather meant we were always in the right place at the right time. Driving through remote highland tracks, crossing rivers and reaching places that very few people ever see was an unforgettable experience. My biggest personal takeaway was the confidence I gained as a drone pilot, flying distances I would never have thought possible and in conditions I would previously never have considered taking off in. I returned home with images I'm genuinely proud of.

Beemer B.★★★★★Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Photo Workshop (August 2026)Google review

This was the second workshop with Jeroen. Same three customers from last year expressed the desire to do another aerial drone workshop in the Icelandic Highlands. Jeroen managed to fit in an extra custom made workshop for us this July. Jeroen took us to locations we didn’t manage to visit last year. Although many of the highland roads were still unusually closed, Jeroen was very flexible in checking roads and weather, and discussing all options with us. This was again a highly successful workshop. Jeroen was always very helpful giving us drone operating tips and showing us the locations and possible compositions prior to launching our own drones. En route we also had the opportunity to stop briefly at some of the iconic Icelandic waterfalls. Jeroen is very knowledgeable and a very skilled 4X4 driver on the highland roads and river crossings. It was great having everything planned for us in advance. Another highly successful workshop and we all want to go again next year.

Peter S.★★★★★Private Photo Workshop (July 2026)Google review

I signed up for the puffin workshop after a disappointing experience in Ireland, where the puffins were always too far away to photograph well. That definitely isn’t the case on Grímsey. A great location is only half the equation. The other half is knowing how to photograph it, and that’s where Jeroen truly excels. The highlight for me was the daily image review sessions, discussing editing, cropping, and selecting the strongest frame from a burst. Jeroen has an exceptional eye for the things that matter. I arrived in Iceland hoping to come home with at least a single portrait of a puffin carrying fish in its bill. Instead, I came home with what feels like an entire puffin portfolio.

Myriam F.★★★★★Puffins in the Midnight Sun Photo Workshop (June 2026)Google review

I can highly recommend the Winter in Iceland photo workshop; it was a great experience. The trip was run very professionally by Jeroen and Mads, and the other participants were interesting and great fun, which made for a great group. Apart from advice on getting the best compositions and techniques at each location, there was also some important safety information given out. I thought that was very good bearing in mind how dangerous Iceland can be (Black Sand Beach in particular). Two things which I found particularly useful on this trip were Wellington Boots and micro spike type crampons-essential in many places. I took my drone and had many fantastic opportunities to fly in some amazing locations, so I would definitely recommend bringing one. All in all a fantastic week!

Matt W.★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

I can highly recommend Jeroen's photography workshops! I recently had the pleasure of joining his winter tour through Iceland and it was wonderful. The tour was very well organised (a helpful booklet ahead of the tour, great hotels, a clean and new car, enough space for luggage, clear communication on what to expect of each day). Jeroen is a careful and good driver, which I appreciated in winter conditions. He and Mads planned all our days with the optimised photo spots for each day's weather, realistic driving times on the road and sufficient coffee breaks. Both Jeroen and Mads are fun to travel with and wonderful coaches, always making sure to explain the possibilities of each location, what to watch out for and giving suggestions for improvement, while at the same time allowing for enough creative freedom for each of their clients. All in all, I had an amazing time, and look forward to joining further tours in the future.

Barbara★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

Iceland Winter 2025 workshop An amazing experience all around. The workshop was well organized, the accommodations were top notch and the food was outstanding! Jeroen and Mads were extremely helpful and genuinely invested in making sure the participants were setup to achieve their photography goals. Jeroen's and Mad's expertise and local knowledge is paramount in providing a truly magical experience. JVN Photo will be my first stop for any future workshops.

Paul F.★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

I brought my drone to Iceland for the winter workshop and had no confidence flying it. By the end of the trip I was flying it by myself and capturing amazing photos and videos. Grateful to Jeroen for his patience and instruction to make both my photography and my trip a success!

Maura C.★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

Just returned from Winter in Iceland 2025. The trip was fantastic. Great group of people. Very nice accommodations and meals and most importantly excellent photographic locations. Well thought out and planned. Excellent packing list provided (yes, you do need wellies). Jeroen is an amazing host with a great sense of humour. He was extremely helpful with my photography in addition to navigating us safely from the various locations. He kept a watchful eye over my shoulder to provide valuable tips and suggestions. Jeroen is a 5 star host. Highly recommend him.

Stephen P.★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

What an amazing workshop in Southern Iceland. Fantastic scenery, a great group of people but most importantly, superb support from Jeroen and Mads. They knew precisely where to take us for the best photographic opportunities and when we were on location they provided really useful help and guidance. The banter in the evenings was also great fun - what else can you ask for! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend going on a workshop with Jeroen and Mads.

Josh C.★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

JVN provided an amazing experience full of useful skills, tips, guidance and knowledge. This workshop helped me level up my photography capabilities whilst immersing myself in an amazing landscape, one that will leave you in awe. The adventure started the first night of the workshop and did not end until leaving the hotel for the plane ride home. At every step of the way, Jeroen was there to offer friendly and compassionate guidance about how to take my own photography, videography and drone skills to the next level. I would highly recommend JVN for anyone at any stage in your photography aspirations, novice to expert. The investment is well worth the value received; new skills, widened perspective, new friends, and capturing life in such an amazing landscape!

Mr R.★★★★★Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (November 2025)Google review

I spent 8 days on a workshop led by Jeroen to Western Greenland. My experience was absolutely delightful from end to end. Given the limited infrastructure in Greenland, Jeroen as a planner had anticipated so many ``what ifs`` that he always had an alternative plan if/when something came up. His attention to all the details for our trip was amazing. The accommodations, food, transportation, and activities were all superb. As a teacher he was patient and supportive. He also worked hard to create unique photographic opportunities for us - both landscape and wildlife. His passion and enthusiasm is infectious, as is his sense of humor. As a woman in my 60's, I always felt so safe with him as our leader. I also spent a day with him up in the highlands of Iceland where he worked tirelessly to put us in the best position(s) and in the best light and helped me capture the most insane landscape shots with my new drone. Jeroen is a wonderful human being and great fun to be with. I definitely plan to go on another of his fabulous workshops in the near future!

Miranda D.★★★★★West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2025)Google review

Just been on a workshop with Jeroen and Mads to West and North Iceland. Amazing trip made all the better by JVN's organisational skills, photographic vision and sense of humour. We were a group of nine with mixed abilities and he always had time for those both at the start of their photographic journey and the more experienced. This was my second time in Iceland and the epic scenery needs to be seen with your own eyes to be believed. If you are even thinking about it, just do it and I recommend JVN.

Scott F.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2025)Google review

Jeroen puts on a first class workshop. His drone coaching alone brings tremendous value. Unlike the saturated and competitive land based photography market, great drone/aerial photography instruction is hard to come by. In just a few days I learned new skills, pushed my personal envelope and gained a new level of confidence. That said, the land based opportunity was available all day, every day. The full agenda hit amazing waterfalls and iconic locations. Both Jeroen and Mads were readily available to assist at any level catering to both the professional and those with less experience. Most importantly, the trip was fun, upbeat and positive , even on those few days the weather didn't cooperate. The hotels were super comfortable and the food was great. If looking for a workshop from a local pro with local knowledge, I highly recommend taking one with Jeroen.

David R.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2025)Google review

We just returned from North/West Iceland. What an amazing adventure! Jeroen was an amazing host and guide (and driver) and truly went out of his way to make sure everyone on the trip was not only taken care of from the point of view of comfort with their accommodations and daily needs, but also made sure to help each participant elevate their photography and drone skills. He was accompanied on this trip by Mads Peter Iverson who complemented Jeroen’s skills as well. Both Jeroen and Mads went out of their way to take care of even the most difficult participants, never acting demeaning and always teaching. I can’t think of a better way to see Iceland and learn photography in an immersive and nourishing environment. I highly recommend this adventure!

Craig B.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2025)Google review

I attended Jeroen's Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop and couldn't be more pleased. In addition to being a world class camera and drone photographer, Jeroen excels at guiding a group tour. He did an excellent job in managing the logistics of the workshop and had the perfect balance of offering photo suggestions without being condescending. I look forward to attending another of his workshops in the near future.

J H.★★★★★Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop (October 2025)Google review

Jeroen really cares about the experience that you have on his workshops. He has impeccable organisation and communication prior to and during the workshop. Jeroen actively sought feedback afterwards, which demonstrates to me that he is constantly working towards providing the best experience for participants. He handled one difficult situation that came up unexpectedly on this trip with grace and made sure the impact of this on the group was minimal. The photographic opportunities we had in East Greenland were incredible. As a total newbie to drone flying, I felt supported and encouraged to venture out of my comfort zone and as a result, I learned so much and captured some amazing photos that I am really proud of. The crew of the boat was fantastic, making sure we were safe and comfortable at all times. The food was excellent. All of these little touches curated by Jeroen made this workshop an incredible experience beyond taking photos.

Michele M.★★★★★East Greenland Photo Expedition (August 2025)Google review

Support Jeroen’s Work

As an independent photographer, Jeroen partially relies on your support to keep producing worthwhile content such as blogs, photographs, books and much more. If you want to support his work, it is possible to do so by buying his e-books & books.

You can also sign up to the newsletter to stay up to date on new blog posts, projects, workshops and other interesting information.

Thank you for considering!

Written by Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove

Jeroen is an award-winning Belgian photographer based in Iceland. The past years, he dedicated his photography to the Central Highlands & volcanic eruptions. Most recently, he received international attention for his work at the Fagradalsfjall volcano.


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