DJI Mavic 4 Pro quick start: setup and first flight

To set up a DJI Mavic 4 Pro: remove the storage cover, make sure the battery is in and press the power button once to wake it, then unfold the arms. By default, unfolding the right rear arm turns the drone on. Activate the DJI RC 2 or RC Pro 2 and the drone in DJI Fly with an internet connection, install any firmware update, and register the drone with the FAA ($5, valid 3 years) before your first outdoor flight.

1. Charge and wake the batteries

Charge the flight batteries and the controller before day one. The Mavic 4 Pro parallel charging hub holds three batteries and, with DJI's 240W adapter, charges one in about 51 minutes or all three in about 90. DJI's manual also lists the 100W USB-C adapter as an option.

If a battery is installed but asleep, press the drone's power button once to wake it. A battery that isn't used goes back to sleep after the drone powers off for a while.

2. Unfold and power on

1. Remove the storage cover. DJI warns that powering on with it attached, or with arms folded, can affect the self-check.
2. Unfold the arms and propellers.
3. The drone powers on when you unfold the right rear arm. You can also press, then press and hold the power button.

Fold Arm to Power off is off by default; turn it on in DJI Fly if you want it. Both features need the latest aircraft firmware, battery firmware and app.

3. Prepare the controller

• DJI RC 2: mount the sticks, unfold the antennas, then press and press-and-hold the power button.
• DJI RC Pro 2: unfold the antennas downward and extend the arm to power on.

Connect to Wi-Fi or a hotspot and follow the activation prompts. DJI Fly is preinstalled. See Mavic 4 Pro app.

4. Activate and update

1. Follow DJI Fly's prompts to activate the drone online.
2. It binds to the controller automatically; follow the prompts if that fails.
3. Install updates and update every battery. See Mavic 4 Pro firmware update.

5. US rules checklist

• Register with the FAA and mark the number on the outside. Remote ID is built in.
• Recreational flyers pass the free TRUST test. Paid work needs a Part 107 certificate.
• Check airspace in B4UFLY or Aloft and get LAANC approval in controlled airspace.
• Fly at or below 400 ft, in sight, and not over people or moving vehicles.

6. Safety settings

In DJI Fly, open settings, then Safety:

• Set RTH altitude above nearby obstacles and pick Optimal or Preset. See Mavic 4 Pro home point.
• Set Signal Lost Action to RTH.
• Keep Obstacle Avoidance on Bypass or Brake. DJI notes sensing is off in Sport mode.

7. First flight

1. Go somewhere open, away from people and wires, with a strong GPS signal.
2. Wait for the Home Point voice prompt, then auto take off and hover at about 10 ft.
3. Mode 2 (default): left stick climbs and turns; right stick moves forward, back and sideways.
4. Fly slow squares in Normal mode. Use Cine for smoother video.
5. Try the three cameras and the gimbal dial. See Mavic 4 Pro gimbal control.
6. Test RTH once close by, then land with plenty of battery left. DJI rates 51 minutes, but real flights are shorter.

Manual

DJI's user manual says to see the Mavic 4 Pro specs and FAQ pages online for specifications and compatible accessories. Release notes and DJI Assistant 2 are on the downloads page.

Buying in the US? Read Mavic 4 Pro in the USA, or see the DJI Mavic 4 Pro.

Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.

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