The Chinese drone manufacturer Potensic has started pre-selling a new version of its top model. The “Atom 3” is slightly larger than its predecessor, which c't tested last year, but otherwise hardly differs visually. However, the three-axis stabilized gimbal now houses a 1/1.3-inch CMOS image sensor instead of a 1/2-inch one. This promises better image quality, even in poor lighting conditions. The field of view is now 84 degrees (Atom 2: 78 degrees), no longer narrower than comparable DJI models.
For photos, the manufacturer specifies a resolution of 8K / 50 megapixels (8192×6144 pixels). Like the Atom 2, the drone camera captures videos with up to 4K resolution, but now with a maximum frame rate of 60 instead of 30 fps. Videos can be recorded with increased dynamic range (HDR) and in P-Log profile to capture as much image information and color detail as possible in high-contrast scenes, both in the brightest highlights and darkest shadows. The maximum bitrate has finally been increased from 80 to 120 Mbit/s.
A special night mode is also included again, which significantly improved the image quality of videos recorded during night flights even on the Atom 2. Such flights are generally permitted, but you must retrofit a green anti-collision light on the drone, and the additional weight may push it into the next higher class requiring a certificate of competence (small drone pilot license).
