DJI Matrice 300 RTK vs DJI Matrice 350 RTK: A Comparative Review

In the world of commercial drones, DJI has set the bar high with its Matrice series. Today, we’re comparing two of its flagship models: the Matrice 300 RTK and the Matrice 350 RTK. Both drones are packed with advanced features and capabilities, but what new features are included in this anticipated update? Let’s dive in.

Matrice 300 RTK: Built Tough, Works Smart

The Matrice 300 RTK is DJI‘s flagship commercial enterprise drone platform inspired by modern aviation systems. It offers up to 55 minutes of flight time and advanced AI capabilities. With 6 Directional Sensing & Positioning, the M300 RTK sets a new standard by combining intelligence with high-performance and unrivalled reliability.

Key features include a 15 km max transmission, IP45 rating, operating temperature range of -20°C to 50°C, hot-swappable battery, and a UAV Health Management System. This drone is designed to deliver superior performance in a variety of commercial applications.

Matrice 350 RTK: Fully Powered to Forge Ahead

The Matrice 350 RTK, on the other hand, is an upgraded flagship drone platform that sets a new benchmark for the industry. It features an all-new video transmission system and control experience, a more efficient battery system, and more comprehensive safety features.

The M350 offers a 55-minute max flight time, an IP55 rating, and DJI O3 Enterprise Transmission. Additionally, it has DJI RC Plus, 400 battery cycles, 6-Directional Sensing & Positioning, a Night-Vision FPV Camera, and Multi-Payload Support. Built tough with powerful propulsion and enhanced protection rating, it can effortlessly tackle a wide variety of challenges.

Comparative Analysis

Both drones offer a 55-minute max flight time and 6-Directional Sensing & Positioning. However, the M350 RTK has an IP55 rating, which is higher than the M300 RTK’s IP45. With an increased IP rating, the M350 offers better protection against dust and water. The M350 RTK also features a Night-Vision FPV Camera and Multi-Payload Support, which are not features of the M300.

Key Upgrades and Improvements

The DJI M350 RTK builds on the successful foundation of the M300 RTK, retaining core features while introducing pivotal enhancements, including:

1. Improved IP Rating
2. Advanced DJI RC Plus Controller
3. Upgraded Battery System
4. New Arm Lock Indicator
5. Night-vision FPV Camera
6. Advanced Transmission System
7. Powerful GNSS & RTK Module
8. Updated Carrying Case

1.IP Rating:

The DJI M350 RTK boasts a wider operational envelope than the M300 RTK. With an IP55 rating, the M350 RTK has superior protection against solid objects than its predecessor, which carries an IP45 rating. However, both platforms exhibit similar water resistance capabilities, providing sufficient protection against rain, but stopping short of full waterproofing.

2. Controller:

The DJI M350 RTK includes the advanced DJI RC Plus Smart Controller. This controller is superior to the Smart Controller Enterprise which comes with the M300 RTK. However, with a firmware upgrade, the RC Plus is now compatible with the M300 RTK, although it must be purchased separately.

3. Battery System:

The DJI M350 introduces the new TB65 Intelligent Flight Battery system. While there is no change in maximum flight time, the TB65 batteries of the M350 RTK have a longer lifespan of 400 cycles compared to the M300 RTK’s TB60 batteries that have a 200-cycle lifespan.

4. Arm Lock Indicator:

The DJI M350 RTK has integrated a new arm lock indicator, significantly improving safety compared to the M300 RTK.

5. FPV Camera:

While both the DJI M350 RTK and M300 RTK come equipped with FPV cameras, the M350 RTK features a night-vision FPV camera, offering increased safety for nighttime operations. This new feature is particularly valuable for verticals in the public safety sector like police and search and rescue missions.

6. Transmission System:

The DJI M350 RTK employs the advanced DJI O3 Enterprise transmission system, an upgrade over the M300 RTK’s O2 Enterprise. This enables stronger signals, and in FCC regions, supports transmission up to 20km away.

7. GNSS & RTK Module:

The DJI M350 RTK includes a new GBSS chip, improving signal reception and satellite acquisition. Moreover, the new RTK module on the M350 RTK offers superior positioning capabilities, ensuring even more accurate flight paths and data collection.

8. Payload Compatibility:

Both the M350 RTK and M300 RTK support the H20T, L1, and P1 payloads, offering multi-sensor versatility for thermal, LiDAR, and photogrammetric operations respectively. They can both carry up to three payloads simultaneously. However, the M350 RTK also supports a new advanced payload that DJI will soon release. This hints at more sophisticated mission capabilities in the near future.

With the DJI Payload SDK, it’s possible to integrate the M350 RTK drone with third-party payloads like gas detectors, loudspeakers, and multispectral sensors. This amalgamation of technology greatly broadens the potential application areas where this drone can be put to effective use.

While the DJI M300 RTK has been a strong player in the commercial drone sector since its launch, DJI‘s introduction of the M350 RTK represents a considerable step forward in drone technology. With its advanced features and enhanced functionality, the M350 RTK demonstrates DJI‘s commitment to constant innovation and positions itself as a market leader in the professional drone industry. With these enhancements, commercial operators can expect to perform their operations more safely, efficiently, and accurately than ever before.