Why Use an iPad Mini?

There’s a bunch of great reasons to use an iPad when you fly. First, it’s a much bigger screen. It makes the interface in the DJI Go app less crowded and gives you more room for controls. The iPad also has a bigger battery, so you don’t have to rely on your phone to operate the drone.

What You Need

Turns out the DJI Mavic Pro Controller was designed to perfectly fit an iPad Mini 2,3, or 4. We’re not sure about Android compatible tablets, but please comment for our readers if you know! This article is focused on iPad Mini.

iPad Mini 2, 3 or iPad mini 4?

The iPad Mini 4 has a faster processor and a better screen, which reduces glare outside — a big plus for flying. You also get the Touch ID which makes it easy for a quick setup. The iPad Mini 2 is still a good device and compatible with the Mavic Pro. There are great deals on both the mini 4 and you can also find great deals right now on the iPad mini 2 for around $250 on Amazon. You can find an iPad Mini 4 on Amazon (for a little extra, it’s worth it). There are also Refurbished iPad Mini 4’s 64Gb available directly from Apple for $319.

Right Angled Lightning Cable

Using a regular cable with the iPad Mini in the controller will result in the cable sticking out and bothering your hand during flight. The way to fix that is using a right angled USB. The ideal cable length is between 6–8", which turns out is hard to find.

Luckily, there is a cable on Amazon for $10 or even this plastic keyholder — which can be useful on your keychain and has the perfect sized right angle cable.

Right Angled Lightning USB — $11 on Amazon

If you’re looking for just the cable, you can also buy this right angled lightning plug which fits the Mavic Pro controller with an iPad.

How to Setup iPad Mini with Mavic Pro

Step 1) Remove the Plastic Insert

Remove the cable, and push out the plastic holder from the controller

Step 2) Insert iPad Into Controller

Extend the arms of the Mavic Controller and slowly push iPad into remote. The corners will fit into the holes of the controller arms.

Step 3) Plug in Cable

Plug in the Cable to the port on the back of the controller.

That’s it! Enjoy the larger screen for flying, and increased battery life!