The DJI Inspire 3 doesn't record RAW out of the box. CinemaDNG and Apple ProRes RAW are unlocked by a separate RAW license key, which DJI says is valid indefinitely after a one-time purchase and is activated in DJI Assistant 2. Without it, the X9-8K Air still records Apple ProRes 422 HQ and H.264. If your production needs RAW, add the license to your budget and activate it before the shoot.
What the license unlocks
| Codec | Max resolution and frame rate | License needed |
|---|---|---|
| Apple ProRes RAW | 8K/75fps (full-frame 2.4:1, S&Q mode) | Yes |
| CinemaDNG | 8K/25fps | Yes |
| Apple ProRes 422 HQ | Standard modes | No |
| H.264 | Standard modes | No |
ProRes RAW also covers full-frame 4K/120fps in S&Q mode without cropping. ProRes RAW records as a single MOV file per clip. CinemaDNG records each frame as a separate DNG image, a workflow some colorists prefer. Check which one your post house wants before the shoot.
How to activate it
DJI's RAW License page says to activate the key in DJI Assistant 2 after purchase, and links a separate PDF activation guide with the exact steps. In outline:
- Buy the license from DJI and keep the key safe.
- Install the current DJI Assistant 2 on a computer.
- Follow DJI's activation guide to connect the Inspire 3 and enter the key.
- Check that ProRes RAW and CinemaDNG now appear as recording formats.
Update the aircraft firmware first, so you're activating on current software.
Things to know before you buy
- Inspire 3 only. DJI lists the license as compatible with the Inspire 3. The Ronin 4D has its own RAW license key, and the Ronin 4D 8K combo includes one.
- One per customer. DJI's store limits it to one unit per order; extra units are canceled. Buying for a fleet? Ask before ordering.
- Transfers aren't covered. DJI's page doesn't say whether a license moves to another aircraft. When buying a used Inspire 3, confirm with the seller and DJI whether RAW is already activated.
- Storage. RAW is designed around the DJI PROSSD. The included PROSSD 1TB is rated up to 900 MB/s read and connects to a computer by USB-C. The Ronin 4D's PROSSD 1TB is interchangeable with the Inspire 3's.
Is it worth buying?
Yes, if any of these apply:
- A delivery spec, network or streaming platform requires RAW acquisition.
- Aerials must be graded alongside Ronin 4D, ARRI or RED footage.
- You need ProRes RAW's 8K/75 or full-frame 4K/120 S&Q modes.
- You do heavy VFX work that benefits from RAW latitude.
For corporate, social and many commercial jobs, ProRes 422 HQ is already a high-quality 10-bit format, and many clients will never ask for RAW. You can add the license later when a job demands it.
Exposure with RAW
The X9-8K Air's native EI changes with frame rate: 800 and 4000 at 30fps or lower, 320 and 1600 above 30fps. See Inspire 3 native ISO.
Budget the whole kit in is the Inspire 3 worth it. We sell the DJI Inspire 3 by quote, and can include the RAW license and spare PROSSDs. Browse the cinema collection.
Related guides
- Is the DJI Inspire 3 worth it (and why does it cost so much)?
- Discontinued DJI drones: Phantom, Spark, Inspire and their support status
- DJI Inspire 3: specs, uses and pricing
- DJI Inspire 3 lens not detected: how to fix it
- DJI Inspire 3 lenses: every DL mount option
- DJI Inspire 3 native ISO and dual ISO explained
Not sure which to pick?
Tell us what you'll fly and your budget. One of our drone pilots will reply with a recommendation.
Buying drones for a business, agency or store? Get wholesale pricing →
