Many have heard of a quadcopter before, but what about an octocopter? DJI just released one of the most advanced copters on the market that comes at a professional price of $4,000 – $6,500.
You can find these models for slightly cheaper than $4,000 on Amazon, but the prices offline range greatly. The Spreading Wings S1000 is not for the novice flyer, but if you are an advanced pilot or need a drone for professional use, the newest model in the DJI lineup will leave you speechless.
DJI Spreading Wings S1000 Specifications
The base specifications seen on the S1000 are much higher than any other copter I have reviewed. Let’s take a look at what a true octocopter has to offer:
- Flight Time: 15 minutes
- Weight: 9.25 pounds
- Motors: 8 independent DJI 4115 400kv
- Landing: Retractable
- Propellers: Foldable, 1552 high performance
- Propeller Size: 15×5.2”
- Battery: LiPo 10000 mAh – 20000 mAh compatible
Features
Every feature of this octocopter has been made with the user in mind. Difficult flights due to weather conditions are a thing of the past and flying has never been this stable or smooth. A few of the standout features are:
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Stability
Constructed with carbon fiber, the propellers and body are not only durable, but they are stable as well. Flight controllers are in place to ensure flight stability. If a rotor is lost mid-flight, this model will automatically adjust to remain stable.
Foldable
The 8 propeller arms are fully foldable to allow for easy transport. The entire prep time to begin flying is less than 5 minutes and only requires you to:
- Place the copter on the floor
- Lift the frame arms
- Push the red clips to lock the arms in place
Now, you simply power up the drone and you are ready for flight.
Lighting
Each arm of the copter has an LED mounted on it for flying at night. Red and green colors are seen. The two front arms have red lights with the rest all green. This is a great addition that not only makes night flying more fun and safe, but the lighting is also aesthetically pleasing.
Landing Gear and Camera Mount
Retractable landing gear is present with the low gimbal and camera mount right in between. The gimbal is mounted on the lower frame so that a wide angle shot can be had without any visual appearance made by the landing gear when landing.
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During mid-flight, users can simply press a button so that the landing gear folds into place and is non-visible.
The Z15-5D is meant for the Canon 5D MKII and MKIII cameras. The Zenmuse offers the utmost in stabilization and control. Users can easily control the camera’s position and tilt from their current location.
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The gimbal also includes video downlink. This allows you to connect right into the MKII or MKIII and see actual live visuals in real-time of what the S100 is seeing.
Speed Control
A manufacturer maximum speed is not provided, but each arm has its own ESC, electronic speed controller. These controllers use 40A and will ensure that all propellers are in sync to provide the absolute best flight and optimal speeds. When all propellers are running, the S1000 is capable of a 2.5 Kg thrust at maximum.
Weight
The octocopter has a weight of approximately 9.25 pounds. This is relatively light, but the S1000 is extremely powerful. To ensure that users receive the highest quality footage at all times, there is a maximum takeoff weight of 24 pounds seen. This is more than enough to carry heavy camera equipment and get off of the ground smoothly.
Battery Compatibility
Sometimes, a smaller battery is better, and other times, a more powerful battery will be needed for an extended flight time.
Thankfully, the S1000 comes with many options to choose from. The battery used can range from 10000 mAh to 20000 mAh.
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Users should note that the 15 minute flight time seen is rated with a 15000 mAh battery. If you use a 10000 mAh battery, you will not see the 15 minute flight time. Alternatively, the 20000 mAh battery will boost the overall flight time seen.
Assembly
Before taking your first flight, you will need to unpack the box and do a little bit of assembly. Luckily, the vast majority of the copter is already setup and ready for you. The following steps will be needed to fully assemble the copter and get it ready for flight:
- Connect the Landing Gear: This is a simple process that is outlined well in the manual. You will need to connect a few tubes together and ultimately fasten them to the retractable equipment that is seen. The only recommendation I have is to keep a ruler nearby.
- Attach the Arms: Each of the 8 arms will need to be attached next. This is done by turning the arm depending on the marking on the motor. This will allow the arm to be locked into the arm mount seen. Now, you will need to plug the arm into the corresponding ESC port so that power can be supplied.
The instructions have a very easy-to-follow list of what needs to be done and should obviously be consulted before flying. After all, you don’t want to break one of the most expensive copters on the market. While this may seem like a lot of assembly, it will take between 20 and 30 minutes to complete.
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All that is left is to attach your camera and get all of your peripherals attached before flying.
Who Needs this Ultimate Octocopter?
This is not a copter for everyone. While you can always buy this one, the near $4,000 minimum price is quite steep for the average person. This is a copter that is made with professionals in mind and hardcore hobbyists.
The ideal usage for a drone that is this powerful and made for professional filming is:
- Aerial photography
- Cinematography
However, if you have the money and want the best octocopter on the market today, Spreading Wings S1000 is the ultimate product.
Further Resources
- DJI Spreading Wings S1000 Octocopter Review – on RCGroups.com
- DJI Spreading Wings S1000, S900, S800 EVO, & S800 “OWNERS THREAD” – on RCGroup.com
- The S1000 Octocopter: The Latest Flagship Drone From DJI – on VideoMaker.com
- First Look: DJI S1000 Octocopter with EOS 5D MKIII – on ProVideoCoalition.com
- Master the Aerial Photography with These 12 Tips
