I am Considering a drone for shooting b-roll videos for YouTube, then the recent talk of the U.S. potentially banning DJI, especially in Florida, has left me perplexed about its implications on obtaining a drone license or working with one for hire. The frustration almost hit me, contemplating the ban, but then the sticker shock kicked in as they are $700 to $2000. Then the thought well ban them lol.
The irony lies in DJI’s evolution from its early days when it was synonymous with cheap and mediocre drones. Back then, it was merely perceived as affordable Chinese tech. Fast forward, and DJI is now the go-to choice for many, dominating the market. It’s interesting to recall a time when people dismissed DJI as subpar. Yet, today, there’s a shift in perception, with comments advising against cheap Chinese drones in favor of DJI, as if they aren’t Chinese stuff to.
What’s amusing is how opinions can drastically change as prices rise. The same individuals who once considered DJI as inexpensive Chinese junk now passionately advocate for it. It’s a fascinating transformation, considering that just five years ago, DJI was associated with being the more cheap beginner option. Now, as the prices have climbed, people seem to perceive it as the best available.
As someone who regularly embraces affordable Chinese products, (cheap knock offs) I’m not criticizing them. Instead, I find it intriguing to observe how the narrative around DJI has evolved. In a world where technology constantly advances, the DJI journey—from being the “cheap” option to the pinnacle of drone technology (not really but lets just say it is)—adds an extra layer of fascination.