DJI Matrice 400 RTK vs Matrice 350 RTK: 2025 Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Professional Drone

Introduction

The professional drone market is constantly evolving, and DJI continues to push the boundaries with its latest innovations. With the arrival of the DJI Matrice 400 RTK in June 2025, professionals in inspection, mapping, public safety, and many other industries are asking a crucial question: should they invest in this new platform, or is the Matrice 350 RTK still sufficient for their needs?

This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision by analyzing the specific performance, capabilities, costs, and applications of these two leading enterprise drones in detail. Whether you’re a purchasing manager in a public organization, a project manager in an inspection company, or an independent professional looking to modernize your equipment, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice.

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK represents a major evolution over its predecessor, with significant improvements in range, payload capacity, obstacle detection systems, and intelligent features. However, the Matrice 350 RTK remains a proven and reliable platform that is widely adopted by professionals around the world.

In this article, we’ll take a step-by-step look at the technical differences, operational performance, acquisition and operating costs, and the specific use cases that each model excels at. Our analysis is based on official DJI specifications and feedback from industry experts.

Overview of both platforms

DJI Matrice 400 RTK: The new benchmark

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK, officially launched in June 2025, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of enterprise drones. This next-generation platform has been designed to meet the growing needs of professionals in terms of autonomy, versatility and embedded artificial intelligence.

With a maximum flight time of 59 minutes and a payload capacity of 6 kg, the Matrice 400 RTK almost doubles the performance of its predecessor in terms of payload capacity. This substantial improvement opens up new possibilities for complex missions requiring multiple simultaneous sensors or specialized heavy equipment.

One of the most notable innovations of the Matrice 400 RTK is its “power line” level obstacle detection system. Combining a 360° rotating LiDAR, mmWave radar, and low-light color vision sensors, this platform can detect 21.6 mm diameter electrical wires at a distance of 50 meters. This revolutionary capability is transforming infrastructure inspection operations, particularly in the energy sector.

The Matrice 400 RTK’s O4 Enterprise Enhanced transmission system offers a maximum range of 20 km (CE standard) with 1080p video quality at 60 fps. This significant improvement over the 8 km of the Matrice 350 RTK allows for more extensive and reliable BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations.

DJI Matrice 350 RTK: The Proven Platform

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK, introduced in 2022, has quickly established its reputation as a reliable and versatile platform for professional applications. With more than two years of field deployment, this drone has proven itself in a multitude of industries, from industrial inspection to precision mapping.

With a maximum flight time of 55 minutes and a payload capacity of 2.7 kg, the Matrice 350 RTK offers an optimal balance of performance and practicality for the majority of professional applications. Its compatibility with DJI’s extensive payload ecosystem, including the Zenmuse H20, H30, L1, L2, and P1 series, makes it a particularly versatile platform.

The Matrice 350 RTK’s O3 Enterprise transmission system offers a range of 8 km (CE standard) with 1080p video quality at 30 fps. This performance is more than sufficient for most inspection and mapping missions.

One of the major strengths of the Matrice 350 RTK is its technological maturity and well-established software ecosystem. Data processing workflows with DJI Terra, integrations with third-party software, and extensive technical documentation make it much easier to adopt and operationally use.

Market positioning

Both of these platforms cater to slightly different segments of the professional market. The Matrice 400 RTK is aimed at organizations with advanced needs in terms of payload capacity, autonomy and smart features. It is particularly aimed at the public safety, energy, and large mapping sectors.

The Matrice 350 RTK, on the other hand, remains ideal for professionals looking for a proven solution, with excellent value for money and a mastered learning curve. It is perfectly suited to inspection companies, design offices, and public bodies with standard needs in terms of professional drones.

Detailed performance comparison

Autonomy and endurance

Flight autonomy is one of the most decisive criteria in the choice of a professional drone. It has a direct impact on operational productivity, mission costs and the ability to cover large areas of intervention.

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK sets a new benchmark with its 59 minutes of maximum flight time in configuration with the Zenmuse H30T payload. This remarkable performance represents a 7% improvement over the 55 minutes of the Matrice 350 RTK. While this difference may seem modest in percentage terms, it translates into significant operational gains in the field.

In stationary mode, the Matrice 400 RTK maintains an endurance of 53 minutes, making it particularly suitable for detailed inspection missions requiring precise and prolonged positioning. This capability is crucial for inspecting complex structures, monitoring sensitive sites, or search and rescue operations requiring sustained observation.

The Matrice 350 RTK, with its 55 minutes of maximum flight, is nevertheless very competitive for the majority of professional applications. This autonomy makes it possible to efficiently cover medium-sized inspection areas and to carry out mapping missions over substantial areas without the need for battery changes.

Speed and agility

Speed of movement directly influences operational effectiveness, especially for missions to cover large areas or emergency response requiring rapid deployment.

The Matrice 400 RTK achieves a maximum horizontal speed of 25 m/s (90 km/h), a notable improvement over the Matrice 350 RTK’s 23 m/s (82.8 km/h). This difference of 8.7% may seem marginal, but it translates into appreciable time savings over long distances.

In terms of vertical speeds, the Matrice 400 RTK performs better with a maximum ascent speed of 10 m/s compared to the Matrice 350 RTK’s 6 m/s. This ability to climb quickly is particularly useful for inspecting tall structures or missions requiring frequent altitude changes.

Resistance to environmental conditions

Environmental robustness determines operational reliability in harsh weather conditions, a critical factor for professional assignments that cannot be postponed.

Both platforms share an IP55 rating, ensuring effective resistance to dust and splashing water. This certification allows operations in moderately adverse weather conditions, including light rain, snow and dusty environments.

The operating temperature range is identical for both models: -20°C to +50°C. This specification allows deployments in extreme environments, from Arctic missions to interventions in desert or industrial areas with high temperatures.

Wind resistance is a crucial parameter for flight stability and the quality of the data collected. Both platforms have a maximum resistance of 12 m/s (43.2 km/h). This performance allows operations in moderate windy conditions, although precision missions may require calmer conditions.

Payload capabilities and versatility

Carrying capacity: a major differentiating factor

Payload capacity is one of the most discriminating criteria between these two platforms, with direct implications for operational possibilities and mission economics.

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK revolutionizes industry standards with its maximum payload capacity of 6 kg, measured at the third gimbal connector. This outstanding performance is more than double the capacity of the Matrice 350 RTK, opening up new opportunities for professional applications requiring heavy or multiple equipment.

This high payload capacity allows for the simultaneous integration of multiple specialized sensors, such as a high-resolution thermal camera, a LiDAR sensor, and a communication system, without compromising flight performance. For public security missions, this versatility translates into a complete intervention capability with a single drone deployment.

The Matrice 350 RTK, with its maximum payload of 2.7 kg for a single nacelle, is nevertheless suitable for the majority of standard professional applications. This capability allows for the carriage of major DJI payloads, including H20/H30 series cameras, L1/L2 LiDAR sensors, and P1 photogrammetric cameras.

Pod configurations and flexibility

The flexibility of the nacelle configuration determines the adaptability of the platform to different types of missions and the operational efficiency during configuration changes.

The Matrice 400 RTK introduces a revolutionary system supporting up to 7 simultaneous payloads thanks to its 4 E-Port V2 ports and multiple attachment points. This exceptional configuration allows for complex multi-sensor missions without the need for reconfiguration between flights.

The Matrice 350 RTK offers significant flexibility with its multiple nacelle configurations: single nacelle down (standard configuration), single nacelle up (for inspecting overhanging structures), double nacelle down (for missions requiring two simultaneous sensors), and a mixed configuration combining nacelle up and down.

Obstacle Detection and Avoidance Systems

Matrice 400 RTK Sensing Technologies

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK’s obstacle detection system represents a major technological advancement, setting a new standard for operational safety in complex environments. This platform incorporates a fusion of multi-modal sensors offering an unprecedented environmental perception in its class.

The horizontal rotary LiDAR is the most outstanding innovation in the system. This sensor offers 360° horizontal and 58° vertical coverage, with a standard detection range of 0.5 to 100 meters in 100,000 lux lighting conditions on a 10% reflectivity target.

The power line detection capability of rotary LiDAR sets a new industry benchmark. The system can detect steel-core aluminum cables with a diameter of 21.6 mm at a distance of 35 meters, even with a 30° tilt angle of the drone. This revolutionary performance transforms electrical infrastructure inspection operations.

The six-way mmWave radar effectively complements the LiDAR system by providing robust detection in all weather conditions. This radar can detect 12.5 mm cables at 36 meters and 21.6 mm cables at 50 meters, with a ±45° field of view in horizontal and vertical.

Matrice 350 RTK Vision System

The Matrice 350 RTK features a proven obstacle detection system based on stereoscopic vision technology in six directions. Although less advanced than the Matrice 400 RTK system, it still offers reliable operational safety for the majority of professional applications.

The main vision system offers a detection range of 0.7 to 40 meters in the forward, backward, left, and right directions, with a range of 0.6 to 30 meters up and down. This performance enables safe browsing in moderately complex environments.

Transmission systems and connectivity

Transmission revolution with the O4 Enterprise Enhanced

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK’s O4 Enterprise Enhanced transmission system marks a significant evolution in long-distance communication capabilities for professional drones. This next-generation technology pushes the boundaries of operational range and video transmission quality.

The maximum transmission range reaches 20 km in CE compliance. This performance nearly doubles the range of the Matrice 350 RTK’s O3 Enterprise system, opening up new possibilities for extended Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.

The video transmission quality of the O4 system reaches 1080p at 60 fps on three simultaneous channels. This improvement over the O3 system’s 30 fps provides superior image smoothness, which is particularly valuable for detailed inspection missions.

O3 Enterprise System of the Matrice 350 RTK

The O3 Enterprise transmission system of the Matrice 350 RTK, although technologically previous, remains a robust and reliable solution for the majority of professional applications. Its maximum range of 8 km (CE) effectively covers the needs of most inspection and mapping missions.

Smart features and battery life

Matrice Artificial Intelligence of the Matrice 400 RTK

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK introduces a full suite of artificial intelligence features that fundamentally transform the approach to professional drone missions. These autonomous capabilities reduce the workload of operators while improving the accuracy and efficiency of operations.

Intelligent AI sensing is one of the most remarkable innovations in the system. This technology allows for the automatic real-time recognition of people, vehicles and boats, both in visible and thermal imagery. For search and rescue missions, this revolutionary capability enables automatic victim detection.

The AR (Augmented Reality) projection system overlays contextual information directly on the remote control screen. This feature displays in real-time the streets, landmarks, waypoints, buildings, power lines, and the device’s return route.

Real-time terrain tracking and adaptive navigation

Real-time field monitoring represents a major advance for mapping and inspection missions. This feature automatically maintains a constant altitude from the ground in all horizontal directions, ensuring uniform data resolution.

Automatic landing on a ship represents a unique innovation of the Matrice 400 RTK, opening up new possibilities for maritime applications. This feature uses machine vision and motion sensors to automatically compensate for the vessel’s movements.

Matrice 350 RTK capabilities

The Matrice 350 RTK, while an excellent platform, lacks any of the advanced smart features of the Matrice 400 RTK. This fundamental difference positions the two devices in distinct segments of the professional market.

Economic analysis and return on investment

Acquisition costs and price positioning

Economic analysis is a determining factor in the choice between these two professional platforms. Price differences reflect technology and performance gaps, but should be assessed in the context of the overall return on investment.

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK is offered at €9,648 at Drone Parts Center, available to order. This next-generation platform offers competitive price positioning given its advanced capabilities.

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK is typically priced at around €8,320 according to European distributors, making it a more accessible option for organizations with budget constraints.

Total Cost of Ownership and Operations

The total cost of ownership (TCO) far exceeds the initial purchase price and includes the costs of training, maintenance, insurance, and replacement of consumables. This global analysis can significantly change the economic equation between the two platforms.

Training costs can differ substantially between the two models. The Matrice 350 RTK benefits from a mature training ecosystem with numerous certified centers and extensive documentation.

The Matrice 400 RTK requires specialized training to fully exploit its advanced features, particularly AI systems and autonomous flight modes. This additional training represents an initial investment but can generate significant productivity gains in the medium term.

Industry Applications and Use Cases

Public Safety and Emergency Response

The public safety sector represents one of the areas where the differences between the two platforms are most pronounced. The advanced features of the Matrice 400 RTK literally transform the response capabilities of law enforcement, firefighters, and rescue teams.

Search and rescue missions exceptionally benefit from the AI capabilities of the Matrice 400 RTK. Automatic detection of people in thermal and visible imaging drastically reduces the time it takes to locate victims.

The Zenmuse V1 speaker and Zenmuse S1 floodlight available at Drone Parts Center provide essential remote communication and lighting capabilities for policing and nighttime responses.

Infrastructure and energy inspection

The energy sector is probably the area where the Matrice 400 RTK has the most decisive advantage. Automatic power line tracking capabilities with obstacle avoidance completely transform inspection workflows.

The detection of 21.6 mm wires at 50 meters allows safe automated flights along electrical corridors, even at high speeds. This revolutionary capability reduces inspection times by 60-80% while improving operational safety.

Mapping and surveying

Mapping large territories directly benefits from the extended battery life of the Matrice 400 RTK. The 59-minute flight capability allows for 7% more area per flight, reducing the number of deployments required.

Automatic terrain tracking ensures uniform data resolution over the entire mapped area, even in uneven terrain. This feature significantly improves the quality of the orthophotos and digital terrain models generated.

Full Comparison Chart

Detailed technical specifications

Conclusion and recommendations

Summary of the comparative analysis

This comprehensive analysis reveals that the DJI Matrice 400 RTK and Matrice 350 RTK cater to distinct segments of the professional market, each with specific advantages depending on the operational needs and technology strategy of organizations.

The Matrice 400 RTK is a technological revolution in the world of professional drones. Its artificial intelligence capabilities, multi-modal detection system and doubled payload capacity redefine industry standards.

The Matrice 350 RTK remains a benchmark for reliability and efficiency for standard professional applications. Its technology maturity, established ecosystem, and ease of operation make it a smart choice for organizations that prioritize operational stability.

Recommendations by industry

Public Safety and Emergency Response

Strong recommendation: Matrice 400 RTK

AI (automatic people detection) capabilities, ship landing, and advanced communication capabilities transform the possibilities of intervention. The investment is justified by improving operational efficiency and reducing risk for teams.

Energy & Utilities

Strong recommendation: Matrice 400 RTK

Automated power line inspection capabilities with obstacle avoidance are revolutionizing inspection workflows. The return on investment can be achieved in a few months for large power companies.

Mapping and surveying

Nuanced recommendation according to the scale of intervention

•Large areas (>100 hectares): Matrice RTK matrix for extended autonomy and automatic terrain tracking

• Medium areas (<100 hectares): Matrice RTK matrix for cost-effectiveness optimization

General Industrial Inspection

Recommendation: Matrice 350 RTK

For standard inspections of buildings, infrastructure and industrial equipment, the proven technology of the Matrice 350 RTK offers excellent value for money.

Where to buy these professional drones

For the acquisition of these platforms in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, Drone Parts Center is positioned as a reference partner as an official DJI Enterprise reseller. Their sector expertise covers police, fire, technical inspection and topography, with comprehensive services including maintenance, repair and training.

Final message

The choice between the DJI Matrice 400 RTK and the Matrice 350 RTK is not just a technical comparison. It reflects the organization’s strategic vision, technological ambitions, and ability to integrate innovation into its business processes.

The Matrice 400 RTK represents the future of professional drones with its AI and automation capabilities. It is aimed at visionary organizations seeking technological competitive advantage.

The Matrice 350 RTK embodies maturity and reliability, offering a proven solution for organizations that prioritize operational stability and economic optimization.

In any case, these two platforms keep DJI at the forefront of innovation in the professional drone industry, providing users with solutions tailored to their specific needs and technology readiness level.