Comparing The DJI Matrice 200 Series

---

---

UPDATE 05/04/2017: We have received some additional information regarding geotagging and base station usage for the Matrice 200 series from DJI - see their comments below: " X4S and X5S are geotagged with RTK, but the coordinates are dependent on the position of the GPS antenna, not the camera. The related position of camera and antenna is not estimated yet. The reference station cannot be centred on given control points, so it can not directly be used for surveying. However, POS data can be export via SDK." "It also supports connecting to Trimble Base station by using 4G, it can reach ranges of up to 30km." - Bart Vandervoort, DJI Netherlands

---

---

DJI’s Matrice 200 series has proved instantly popular with those looking to undertake commercial work with SUAs. With three available models offering various levels of modular functionality and positioning support, there’s a decent amount of choice for those interested in these stellar rigs. Before you settle on which M200 is right for you, it’s worth taking a look through our comparison so that you’re clued up on all the necessary specifications, features and varied levels of performance so that you make the right decision for both yourself and your business.

---

The DJI Matrice 200 Series – Overview & Specs

The M200, M210 and M210 RTK have all been designed with industrial end-users in mind, these are enterprise products and aren’t intended for the consumer market. This is clear, not only in their appearance but in their modular construction allowing (in the case of the M210 and M210 RTK) the attachment of multiple sensors to create an unparalleled aerial surveying tool. Every model is also fitted with an ADS-B receiver (trademarked as DJI AirSense) which improves safety by keeping you informed of any manned aircraft in the area, urgent airspace notices and temporary restrictions that may be in place. This guide has been designed to provide you with an overview of each of the models and what you can expect in terms of functionality and performance. Here are the specifications for the Matrice 200, 210 and 210 RTK to show how they line up against one another. Now we will look at each model individually. If you have any questions after looking through this guide, our team are available on 0191 296 1024 or info@heliguy.com to help you decide.

---

DJI Matrice 200

The Matrice 200 is the basic version of this industrial quadcopter which, while lacking some of the additional features of the more advanced versions (i.e. dual and upward gimbal mounting and RTK functionality) is still a sturdy solution which can benefit a range of industrial uses due to its compatibility with the following Zenmuse cameras:

• DJI Zenmuse Z30: 30x aerial zoom camera designed for inspection work.
• DJI Zenmuse XT: A team effort from FLIR and DJI enabling highly accurate thermal and radiographic aerial surveys.
• DJI Zenmuse X4S: Great quality imagery engineered by DJI.
• DJI Zenmuse X5S: The pinnacle of Zenmuse camera quality, originally designed for the filmmaking with the Inspire 2.

Please Note: The above cameras are compatible with all airframes in this series. This versatility coupled with an IP43 weatherproofed rating makes the M200 a powerful aerial imaging rig perfect for surveying tasks in challenging scenarios. Add in the dual battery system for added redundancy and on-site safety (as well as compatibility with the new TB55s allowing for extended flight times) and you’re looking at a robust commercial solution.  

___________________

M200 - Key Features

FPV Camera

Dual-battery System

FlightAutonomy

IP43 Weatherproofing

ADS-B Receiver

___________________

 

---

DJI Matrice 210

The M210 configuration features everything that you can expect from the standard Matrice 200 with the addition of universal ports and the option for multiple payload configurations. The Matrice 210 enables you to mount dual gimbals underneath the aircraft (e.g. the Zenmuse XT and Zenmuse Z30 for simultaneous zoom imagery and thermal data capture) and you also have the option to top mount a gimbal for a different viewpoint (especially useful for bridge inspections which require an upwards vertical perspective). Please Note: You can’t use an upward and downward camera simultaneously. This mid-range model will appeal to the majority of businesses looking to implement one of the Matrice 200 series aircraft into their service offering. It comes with more functionality than the base M200 as standard and, for those not overly concerned about the positioning accuracy of RTK, the Matrice 210 is the ideal industrial airframe.  

___________________

M210 - Key Features

FPV Camera

Dual-battery System

FlightAutonomy

IP43 Weatherproofing

ADS-B Receiver

Multiple Payload Configurations (Dual and Top Mounted)

Universal Ports

___________________

 

---

DJI Matrice 210 RTK

The top of the line model in the M200 range is the Matrice 210 RTK. This aircraft is kitted out with everything featured in the both the M200 and M210 including the ability to choose how you mount your gimbals. What sets it apart, however, is the built-in RTK functionality from DJI which, according to the manufacturer, ensures millimetre-precision navigation. If you’re looking for the absolute best of the bunch, it’s hard to find a more capable industrial rig than the Matrice 210 RTK. Although the price disparity (call 0191 296 1024 for details on costs) between the Matrice 210 and 210 RTK might prompt some businesses to opt for the mid-range model, if you’re willing to invest in this premium aircraft, you will have access to one of the most powerful, adaptable commercial SUA solutions available.  

___________________

M210 RTK - Key Features

FPV Camera

Dual-battery System

FlightAutonomy

IP43 Weatherproofing

ADS-B Receiver

Multiple Payload Configurations (Dual and Top Mounted)

Universal Ports

Built-in RTK

___________________

 

---

Matrice 200 Series - Additional Information

Now that you know what each aircraft in the Matrice 200 series has to offer, let's take a look at some of the peripherals and software that have been developed to work seamlessly with these commercial quadcopters.

A New Generation of Flight Management

Alongside the Matrice 200 range, DJI also announced their new FlightHub software. While information is currently limited, we can confirm that it is a web-based software package which allows teams to share real-time data with offsite colleagues over an internet connection. Promising an intuitive ‘control centre’, DJI FlightHub will let companies plan flights for entire fleets and keep track of each aircraft's status. Offsite personnel can monitor live feeds while remotely controlling drone’s camera and gimbal. This feature-rich software solution will also reportedly enable managers to plan flights in advance using waypoints and dynamic geofencing. The applications for this include situation control centres remotely keeping track of teams on the ground or company engineers inspecting infrastructure networks without having to leave the office. It’s also worth noting that the M200 series is compatible with DJI's Mobile and Onboard Software Development Kit (SDK), which gives programmers the ability to design customised solutions for flight plans, data collation and analysis.

Compatible Accessories

The Matrice 200 is compatible with a range of accessories, here are some of the most interesting currently being touted by DJI: DJI Goggles: The M200 series pairs with the upcoming 'DJI Goggles', which display an 85-degree view from the drone in full 1080p. Dual Controllers: The master and slave controller range has been extended to 328ft and users have the option to switch between 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz frequencies to ensure greater signal stability. A Choice of Batteries: The M200 series offers two battery versions – a standard 95Wh version (TB50) and a more powerful version of 174Wh (TB55) with a flight time of up to 38 minutes.  

---

Matrice 200 Series - Frequently Asked Questions

---