DJI Goggles vs Fatshark
To really get inside a drone’s pilot seat you need FPV Goggles. Simply slip them on, and you will be able to experience the flight up close and in real time. Of course, there is a range of different pairs on the market and choosing between them can be tricky. That’s why we have compared the major models from manufacturers DJI and Fatshark.
We will be analyzing the DJI Goggles and the DJI Goggles Racing Edition. They will be facing off against Fatshark’s main FPV products, which are the:
- Teleporter V5
- Dominator V3
- Attitude V4
- Dominator HD3 Core
- Transformer SE
We will award points across a range of categories. Then, at the end, we will tally up the scores and let you know our thoughts on which pair wins overall and which is the best value for money.
Compatibility
The DJI Goggles (both editions) have built-in compatibility with DJI’s Phantom 4, Spark, Inspire, and Mavic Pro drones. The Racing Edition is also compatible with any third party drone, by either picking up its FPV signal or by installing a camera if it doesn’t transmit one. This camera system is called the Ocusync Air System and needs to be purchased separately.
Fatshark Goggles are compatible with any drone. Newer aircraft will automatically transmit an FPV signal, which the goggle’s receiver can pick up. Older models will require FPV equipment (a camera and transmitter) to be installed. This equipment can be purchased separately.
Weight
You can see the approximate weight of each pair below.
Model | Weight (grams) |
DJI Goggles | 495 (+500 for the headband) |
DJI Goggles Racing Edition | 502 (+500 for the headband) |
Fatshark Teleporter V5 | 163 |
Fatshark Dominator V3 | 152 |
Fatshark Attitude V4 | 160 |
Fatshark Dominator HD3 Core | 200 |
Fatshark Transformer SE | 400 |
As you can see the Fatshark Goggles are much lighter than those made by DJI. They are also around a third the size. This makes them much easier to slip into your pocket and carry around. The only exception is the Fatshark Transformer SE, which are large box goggles.
+1 for the Fatshark Teleporter V5
+1 for the Fatshark Dominator V3
+1 for the Fatshark Attitude V4
+1 for the Fatshark Dominator HD3 Core
Comfort
Fatshark Goggles use elastic to press themselves against a user’s face. This can become uncomfortable over time. Furthermore, the Fatshark Goggles’ smaller size is actually a disadvantage, as there is less contact area between them and the wear’s face, which again leads to discomfort.
The DJI Goggles are much bulkier and, as mentioned above, they weigh more. However, in general, they are more comfortable. The weight is distributed well, and they are made from much softer materials. They feel a lot more cushioned when pressing against your face, while the Fatshark Goggles are more imposing .
The DJI Goggles Racing Edition has added padding, which makes them a bit more comfortable than the original pair. The bottom line is that if you plan on wearing your FPV goggles for a long time, then the DJI ones can start to feel too heavy.
+1 for the DJI Goggles
+1 for the DJI Goggles Racing Edition
Screen Resolution
The main reason to purchase a pair of FPV goggles is for the immersive experience they provide. That’s why screen quality should be taken into consideration. We have listed each pairs’ resolution below.
Model | Screen Resolution |
DJI Goggles | 1080p |
DJI Goggles Racing Edition | 1080p |
Fatshark Teleporter V5 | 240p |
Fatshark Dominator V3 | 480p |
Fatshark Attitude V4 | 480p |
Fatshark Dominator HD3 Core | 600p |
Fatshark Transformer SE | 720p |
As you can see the DJI Goggles lead the pack. Both pairs have 1080p screens, with are far superior to what the Fatshark Goggles provide.
+1 for the DJI Goggles
+1 for the DJI Goggles Racing Edition
Field of View
The FOV (field of view) is a measurement of how big the goggles’ images appear to their user’s eyes. For example, a 30° FOV means the edges of the screen are located at a 30° angle from the center of your view. The higher this angle is, the more immersive the images are.
You can see the figures for each pair of goggles below.
Model | Field of View |
DJI Goggles | 85° |
DJI Goggles Racing Edition | 85° |
Fatshark Teleporter V5 | 25° |
Fatshark Dominator V3 | 30° |
Fatshark Attitude V4 | 32° |
Fatshark Dominator HD3 Core | 42° |
Fatshark Transformer SE | 55° |
It’s clear that the DJI Goggles win out in this category as well. You will be in for an extremely 3D and immersive experience while using them.
+1 for the DJI Goggles
+1 for the DJI Goggles Racing Edition
Head Tracking
Each pair of goggles, except for the Teleporter V5, supports head tracking. This allows users to control the drone’s camera by simply moving their head. A pretty nifty feature that adds to the immersive experience.
Just remember, you may experience compatibility issues when using head tracking. Some drone-goggle combinations don’t work well.
+1 for every drone, except the Teleporter V5
Control Pad
The DJI Goggles (both editions) have large touchpads on their sides. All menus can be navigated without needing to take the goggles off.
The Fatshark Goggles have dedicated buttons that are easy to use. However, they are smaller and less ergonomic than those found on the DJI Goggles.
+1 for the DJI Goggles
+1 for the DJI Goggles Racing Edition
Price
Check out the approximate Amazon price for each pair of Goggles below.
Model | Approximate Price |
DJI Goggles | $450 |
DJI Goggles Racing Edition | $550 |
Fatshark Teleporter V5 | $350 |
Fatshark Dominator V3 | $350 |
Fatshark Attitude V4 | $350 |
Fatshark Dominator HD3 Core | $420 |
Fatshark Transformer SE | $230 |
As you can see the DJI Goggles are more expensive than their Fatshark counterparts. You will also notice that the Fatshark Transformer SE is the most affordable pair.
If you require the Ocusync Air System for the DJI Racing Edition, then you can pick one up for about $150.
Furthermore, If you require an FPV camera and transmitter for a pair of Fatshark Goggles, then you will see a variety available on Amazon. These generally cost $20-$100, depending on the quality.
+1 for the Fatshark Transformer SE
Overall Scores
We have tallied up the scores below so check them out.
Model | Total Score |
DJI Goggles | 5 (comfort, screen resolution, field of view, control pad, head tracking) |
DJI Goggles Racing Edition | 5 (comfort, screen resolution, field of view, control pad, head tracking) |
Fatshark Teleporter V5 | 1 (lowest weight) |
Fatshark Dominator V3 | 2 (lowest weight, head tracking) |
Fatshark Attitude V4 | 2 (lowest weight, head tracking) |
Fatshark Dominator HD3 Core | 2 (lowest weight, head tracking) |
Fatshark Transformer SE | 2 (lowest price, head tracking) |
As you can see, both pairs of DJI Goggles win overall.
What’s the Difference Between the Original DJI Goggles and the Racing Edition?
You may have noticed that both pairs are looking pretty similar. However, we would like to touch on some crucial differences.
The Racing Edition can receive both analog and digital transmissions. They can also utilize both 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz bands (the original pair can only use 2.4GHZ). Latency is also lower when using the Racing Edition.
Lastly, you should be aware that the Racing Edition has an SD card slot while the original pair doesn’t.
Which Pair Is The Best Overall?
The DJI Goggles easily surpass every Fatshark pair. They have better screens, greater fields of vision, and are more comfortable. If you want the ultimate 3D experience, then they are the best option. You can also wear them for long periods of time with minimal discomfort.
If you own a DJI drone, then you are really doing yourself an injustice by not getting the DJI Goggles. They are designed to be compatible with the company’s flagship aircraft and will give you the best experience.
The Racing Edition does have some noticeable improvements over the original DJI Goggles and wins 1st place.
Which Pair is the Best Value for Money?
At only $230, it is the Fatshark Transformer SE. This pair of Goggles has the second-best screen (720p resolution) and second-best FOV (55°). If you are on a tight budget, then it is still a good choice. Just remember, it can’t compete with the more expensive DJI Goggles.
The DJI RE goggles weigh 1002 grams – 502g for display housing – 500g for headband which puts 2.35 pounds on your head which from my experience-and I DO have both the DJIRE and FSHD3 and the difference in comfort between 2 plus pounds and a half pound on your hear for hours at a time is night and day.
So while the DJI does have a better screen resolution, they become so uncomfortable after awhile you actually WANT to land.
The FatShark HD3 are smaller screen but you can fly all day and not need to see a doctor afterwards.
Could’t be more sponsored by DJI…