The DJI Flip's top speed is 12 m/s, which is about 27 mph or 43 km/h, in Sport mode in still air. DJI also measured 16 m/s (about 36 mph, 58 km/h) flying with a 4 m/s tailwind. It climbs and descends at up to 5 m/s (about 11 mph). That makes it a relaxed, camera-first drone rather than a fast one.
DJI Flip speeds in every unit
| Measure | m/s | mph | km/h |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max horizontal, Sport mode (no wind) | 12 | 26.8 | 43.2 |
| Max horizontal, Sport with 4 m/s tailwind | 16 | 35.8 | 57.6 |
| Max tracking speed | 12 | 26.8 | 43.2 |
| Max climb, Sport and Normal | 5 | 11.2 | 18 |
| Max climb, Cine | 2 | 4.5 | 7.2 |
| Max descent, Sport and Normal | 5 | 11.2 | 18 |
| Max descent, Cine | 1.5 | 3.4 | 5.4 |
DJI measured the horizontal figures in a wind tunnel at sea-level conditions. Real speed varies with altitude, wind, temperature and firmware.
Flight modes and speed
The Flip has three flight modes, switched on the remote controller:
- Normal: the everyday mode. Obstacle sensing works, and speed is lower than Sport.
- Sport: the fastest mode. Obstacle sensing is switched off, and DJI says to allow at least 30 m of braking distance in still air.
- Cine: speed is limited for smoother, steadier video.
Flight modes only apply to manual flying and Cruise Control. Smart Snaps, QuickShots and tracking set their own speeds. DJI notes you may see shake in Sport mode footage.
Can the Flip keep up with a bike or car?
The Flip follows at up to 12 m/s (27 mph), which covers runners and most casual cyclists. It won't keep up with a car at road speed. DJI also warns that tracking doesn't brake for obstacles, and the Flip can only make an emergency stop when following slower than 3 m/s. Track in open spaces with no trees or poles in the path.
Speed and wind
A light drone has less margin in wind. The Flip is rated for wind up to 10.7 m/s (Level 5), close to its own top speed. Flying back into a strong headwind, it can make slow progress, so turn around early with plenty of battery. See Flip wind resistance.
How the Flip compares
| Drone | Top speed (Sport) |
|---|---|
| DJI Flip | 12 m/s (27 mph) |
| DJI Mini 4 Pro | 16 m/s (36 mph) |
| DJI Air 3S | 21 m/s (47 mph) |
Both comparison figures are DJI's Sport mode numbers in still air; more in Air 3S top speed. If speed matters more than propeller guards, compare in our Flip vs Mini 4 Pro guide.
Speed and the law
There's no recreational speed limit in the FAA rules, but Part 107 caps drones at 100 mph, far above the Flip's limit. The real rules to watch are altitude (400 ft), visual line of sight and airspace. See Part 107.
See full specs and kits on the DJI Flip product page.
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