DJI Matrice 400 vs Matrice 4E: Heavy-Lift vs Compact Photogrammetry
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | DJI Matrice 400 | DJI Matrice 4E |
|---|---|---|
| Max Takeoff Weight | 15.8 kg | - |
| Max Payload | 6 kg at the third gimbal connector (screw-lock); 1,400 g single gimbal | Fixed sensors (200 g accessory limit) |
| Flight Time | 59 min (measured with H30T payload) | 49 min (no payload) |
| Transmission | O4 Enterprise Enhanced, 40 km FCC (one-way, unobstructed) | - |
| Obstacle Sensing | LiDAR + mmWave + omni vision | Omnidirectional vision |
| IP Rating | IP55 | - |
Pricing shown reflects average US rates — indicative ranges, not a quote. Actual costs vary by location based on local market conditions, regulations, and project logistics — both within the US and internationally. Get a custom quote
DJI Matrice 400
Flagship Heavy-Lift Platform
DJI's flagship enterprise platform (official name "DJI Matrice 400" — no RTK suffix): 6 kg payload capacity, LiDAR + mmWave obstacle sensing, and the only aircraft that carries the Zenmuse L3.
Pros
- 6 kg at the third gimbal connector, at sea level
- Carries Zenmuse L3
- Rotating LiDAR + mmWave radar sensing
- RTK heading better than 2°
- 59-min flight time measured with an H30T fitted
Cons
- Heavier logistics (9.7 kg takeoff weight)
- Newer platform, smaller installed base
- No H20-series or L1 support
Best For
DJI Matrice 4E
Compact Photogrammetry Platform
The M4E delivers enterprise-grade imaging — a 20 MP mechanical-shutter wide camera and 112× hybrid zoom — in a compact, one-person deployable package with integrated RTK.
Pros
- Mechanical shutter for mapping
- 112× hybrid zoom
- Integrated RTK
- One-person deploy
- Lower cost
Cons
- Fixed sensor — no payload swap
- No LiDAR option
- 200 g accessory payload limit
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
The Matrice 400 is the open payload flagship — LiDAR, full-frame photogrammetry (Zenmuse P1) and thermal on one airframe. The M4E packs mechanical-shutter mapping and integrated RTK into a 1.22 kg aircraft. For payload-class deliverables the M400 wins; for portable RTK photogrammetry the M4E is the efficient choice.
Choose DJI Matrice 400 if...
Choose the Matrice 400 when the mission calls for the Zenmuse L3, the P1's full-frame sensor, or multiple payloads.
Choose DJI Matrice 4E if...
Choose the M4E for compact survey-grade photogrammetry a single operator can deploy.
Download the Spec Sheets
Original manufacturer documents, free with no email required — verified against each manufacturer's live copy.
DJI Matrice 400
Source: enterprise.dji.com ↗
Browse the full library: Equipment Spec Sheets & Downloads →
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for photogrammetry deliverables?
Both map well. The M4E's 20 MP mechanical-shutter camera with integrated RTK is excellent for compact mapping missions; the Matrice 400 carrying the Zenmuse P1's full-frame sensor produces the higher-end photogrammetry deliverable when the project justifies the larger aircraft.
Where do these specifications come from?
From DJI's official specification pages for each aircraft, captured and verified August 2026. DJI publishes no spec-sheet PDF for these platforms; its official user manuals are free downloads in our equipment spec-sheet library.
Professional Equipment In This Comparison
The professional equipment in this comparison, compared spec by spec. Specifications shown are the manufacturers' published figures. Models THE FUTURE 3D operates are identified on their own pages.
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Professional Services Using This Equipment
The Future 3D delivers these professional services with its own equipment fleet — each service page names the instruments we deploy.
Drone Photogrammetry
Aerial 3D mapping, orthomosaic creation, and terrain modeling
LiDAR Drone Surveying & Mapping
Survey-grade topographic mapping with RTK accuracy
Drone Inspections
Safe, efficient roof, facade, and infrastructure inspections
Industries That Benefit From This Technology
DJI Matrice 400 and DJI Matrice 4E technology drives innovation across these key industries.
Real Estate
Immersive property tours and marketing assets
Construction
As-built documentation, progress monitoring, and scan data for BIM
Hospitality
Hotel virtual tours and event space showcases
Warehouses & Logistics
Warehouse documentation and facility planning
Sports & Entertainment
Stadium documentation and venue tours
Utilities
Infrastructure mapping and corridor surveys
Available Nationwide
The Future 3D provides professional 3D scanning services across the United States.
Florida (Headquarters)
Northeast
West Coast
South & Midwest
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