Just this past week I published a video on the ThruMyLens YouTube Channel on why you shouldn’t upgrade to the DJI Mini 5 Pro if you have the Mini 3 Pro or Mini 4 Pro.  Unless you been living on a deserted island, then you know DJI is just weeks away from a likely ban in the US.  And it’s been difficult to get DJI products in the US (and getting harder) for the past few months.  

And then I went and bought one anyway.  It’s a classic case of “Do as I say, not as I do.”  

Don’t misunderstand – I certainly wanted one given that I was two versions behind with my Mini 3 Pro.  But between the possibility that all DJI drones (both new and existing) might not be able to operate in the US, and the fact that the price of the DJI Mini 5 Pro was 30%-40% more than the Mini 3 Pro due to tariffs, it just didn’t make sense.  The Mini 5 Pro went on sale in the latter half of September 2025.  With Tax, you could be looking at about $1400-$1500.00.  No warranty.  And no ability to buy DJI Care (they’re excellent extended warranty).  So for the next  two months I monitored prices from both US sellers and those located abroad selling on eBay.  Finally, an acceptably priced  listing for a brand new Mini 5 Pro came up from a reputable vendor located in South Korea.  Including tax and shipping, the price was $1190.00 for the Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo.  I paid $1034.00 for my DJI Mini 3 Pro with the Fly More kit in May of 2022.  $156.00 more three years later for improved specs and capabilities didn’t seem too hateful.  

Two days after completing the purchase, my Mini 5 Pro was already in Anchorage, AK having been shipped via FedEx.  One day later, it showed up in Memphis, TN. It’s now showing it will be delivered just one day later – tomorrow.  And as luck would have it, both Saturday and Sunday are shaping up to be great days to fly for mid-November in Ohio.  I should be able to do some serious testing both days.  Look for a review coming soon.

Upgrading to the Mini 5 Pro From the Mini 3 Pro