Purpose and Use Case

DJI T100:
Designed for large, open, and relatively flat properties (300+ ha), the T100 excels in broadacre operations. Its size, speed, and liquid capacity make it ideal for covering long, uninterrupted runs with minimal obstacles like trees or steep hills.

DJI T50:
While the T50 is also suitable for broadacre work, it's more compact and agile-making it better suited to mixed terrain including hills, paddock edges, and tighter spaces. Though it covers less ground per hour than the T100, its versatility is a strength.

Productivity and Performance
T50:
- Already available and field-proven.
- June sale pricing: $27,500 ex GST for the 3-battery bundle.
- Two T50s can cover up to 26 ha/hour combined (13 ha/hour each at 25 L/ha application rate).
- Flow rate: 24 L/min.
- Tank capacity: 40 L.
- Cruise speed: ~28 kph.

T100 (estimated):
- Not yet released; real-world performance still to be confirmed.
- Estimated coverage: ~21 ha/hour at 25 L/ha.
- Flow rate: up to 40 L/min.
- Tank capacity: 75 L.
- Likely spray speed: ~38 kph.

In theory, the T100 could be ~1.5x more productive than a single T50. However, it's still slightly less productive than two T50s combined-though simpler logistically, with just one aircraft to manage and fewer battery swaps.

Labour and Logistics
2x T50s:
- Requires 2 operators.
- More equipment to manage.
- Greater trailer space and more setup time.
- Can operate side-by-side or in different paddocks simultaneously.

T100:
- Operable by a single person.
- Bulkier, but designed to be disassembled for easier transport.
- Easier to manage day-to-day from a staffing perspective.

Reliability and Maturity
T50:
- Well-tested and reliable in Australian conditions.
- A known issue with some battery batches has now been resolved.

T100:
- Brand new platform.
- As with most new tech, expect some initial firmware issues.
- DJI generally responds quickly with updates.

Cost Comparison and ROI
Option A: Two T50s
- 2x T50 kits (3 batteries each): $55,000 ex GST
- 2x Spreaders: $4,000
- 24 kVA generator required
- Total: ~$59,000 ex GST

Option B: One T100
- T100 kit (3 batteries): ~$44,000 ex GST (expected)
- 1x Spreader: $2,000
- 16 kVA 3-phase generator required
- Total: ~$46,000 ex GST

Additional Considerations:
- The T100 will likely hold its value longer due to newer tech.
- T50s are eligible for the instant asset write-off before June 30.
- With two drones, you gain operational redundancy and more flexibility.

Final Thoughts
If you need a solution right now that is proven, versatile, and cost-effective-two T50s are a smart move, especially while EOFY deals and tax incentives are active.

If your primary goal is broadacre efficiency with simpler logistics and you're comfortable waiting (and taking a chance on a new platform), the T100 may be worth holding out for.

We hope these insights help with your decision. For tailored advice, contact the DronesForHire.com.au team on 1300 029 829 or [email protected]

Spec Comparison

Charging and Battery Comparison

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

For broadacre work, we speculate (we don’t have our first unit yet as at the time of writing – 15/7/25), that the DJI T100 will cover up to 26 ha of crops like cotton per hour  (at 20L per ha application rate (one drone).

For spot spraying, compared to a quick spray, you should expect to be roughly 3x as efficient and be using 20%-60% less chemical to get the same kill rate (spray drones are famous for their efficacy because they have the advantage of their big rotors pushing droplets  down, and circulating them throughout the target.

If you are an existing spray drone operator , operating a T50 or T40, you may perceive the T100 as a very big machine, designed just for large broadacre properties – this is not necessarily the case – the T100 has a new lidar sensory system which will enable it to much more confidently move around tricky country – steep, rocky sections, gullies, trees surprisingly well for a relatively big fella! This lidar system will also, in some cases,  negate the need to pre map the operating area  – because the aircraft is more capable of sensing its surrounding environment on the fly and making more confident (less hesitation ) manoeuvres as a result.

Let’s say you’re doing 500 ha a day with your SP sprayer. You might only need 2x or at most 3x T00 drones to do the same, but it’s important to note an SP sprayer costs about 20x as much ($800k or more), requires a lot more maintenance, and can’t operate on soft (wet) ground. So whilst a T100 is not an SP sprayer, it punches way above its weight considering its size, cost, and versatility. Not to mention its modular design, uncomplicated maintenance program, low cost of parts, no diesel expense, and much more efficient use of inputs.

Keep in mind, operating one or more spray drones requires battery changes and liquid/granular refills as a steady workflow as you’re going. You’re not sitting in the cab of an SP sprayer – rather,  your running an ag drone pit crew!

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

DJI holds a dominant position in the drone market, especially within the agricultural sector where it commands a global market share of approximately 30-34% of agricultural drone revenue. This dominance extends to the overall civil drone market, with an impressive 70-90% share. By the end of 2024, DJI is projected to have deployed around 400,000 agricultural drones globally. The company's agricultural division alone generates an estimated US$1.2-1.5 billion annually in revenue. DJI is a privately held company with substantial funding, reporting $3.8 billion in revenue in 2021 and employing around 14,000 people. Its global reach is extensive, operating in over 100 countries with a strong presence across Asia, North America, Europe, and Latin America, providing robust support and service to its vast customer base.

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

As of 17/7/25, official pricing for Australia is $40,900.0 for the standard 3-battery kit. With the spreader adding $2735.0.  Figures are ex GST.

The T100 will be released to the market / available to purchase in the Australian market in August 2025.

Drones For Hire , as the leading ag. dealer and ag. service center, will be amongst the first in the country to receive stock and begin demonstrations nationwide.

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

The T100 can empty its full tank in just ~2–3 minutes at max flow, allowing fast, dense applications when needed (e.g. fertilizer, frost control). You can also fine-tune spray settings for lighter, more delicate applications. It's fast and flexible.

View T100 bundles for sale - with option to reserve a kit from our first shipment

View 30 min first impressions video below

DJI M400 vs M300/350 vs M600Pro

The DJI Matrice 400 (M400) was launched a few days ago on 10 June 2025 worldwide!

In this article, instead of discussing its general specs and features which are already available over the net:

To check for basic specs/ features of the M400, please check here.

When DJI released the M400, it wasn’t just about replacing the M300/600s, it was a rethink of what an enterprise drone could do. Everyone is discussing its capabilities compared to the M300/350 and M600, let’s see the differences and check out which suits you more!

We will cover different aspects including the flight performance, battery systems and implications, the payload capability and also real-world operational impacts! We will delve into specific technical comparisons, use cases, and real-life figures between the M400 and the comparable models.

Flight Time and Speed: Do More in a Single Launch

Endurance is everything when we are covering a paddock, inspecting power lines, or mapping remote bushland. The M400 flies up to 59 minutes with typical payloads like the H30T, compared to:

• M300/350: ~40 mins (with H30T)

• M600 Pro: ~20–25 mins (with 6 kg payload)

That’s 30–40% more usable airtime per flight compared to the M300/350, and double that of the M600 Pro. You don’t just get longer flights. In operation, you can do fewer takeoffs, fewer swaps, and fewer gaps in your data.

Whether it’s wind resistance or mission timing, the M400 leads:

• Max speed: 25 m/s (90 km/h)

• Wind tolerance: 12–15 m/s

That’s not just numbers. Faster and more stable flights translate into cleaner mapping grids, quicker job completion, and the ability to fly in more marginal conditions.

Power and Battery Efficiency

The M400 shifts from the dual-battery TB60/65 system to a single TB100 battery.

Matrice 300/350 dual-battery system (two TB60/65): 

• TB60 is 5935 mAh, ~52.8 V, ~274 Wh (~200 charge cycles)

• TB65 is 5880 mAh, 44.76 V, 263, smaller battery capacity but can handle ~400 charge cycles, double lifespan of TB60.

• Redundancy and hot swapping

Matrice 600 6-battery system (6 TB47s): 

• TB47s is 4500 mAh, ~22.2 V, ~99.9 Wh (~200 charge cycles)

M400 single large battery (TB100/100c)

• T100 is 20,254 mAh, 48 V, ~977 Wh (~400 charge cycles ), 

• roughly 1.8× the total energy of a pair of TB60s. 

• That’s why longer flight times. Also rated for ~400 charge cycles 

The TB100 is nearly twice the energy of the TB60 pair, and it still manages 400 charge cycles (same as TB65, twice the TB60 lifespan).

TB100 (400 cycles), meaning it has a longer lifespan, twice as long, so the cost is lower over time.

Cost-wise, it’s competitive:

Most pros get 3 battery sets. The M400 could do the same job with 2 sets instead of 3, and still have spare time. With a fast charger (BS100), one TB100 charges in ~45 mins, so a 2-battery cycle could keep you airborne all day.

But still, we do recommend getting 3 for redundancy, then you can have a set cooling down before charging them (better for the battery health).

Payloads: Heavier, Smarter, More at Once

The M400 can be a replacement for the M600 as it carries up to 6 kg which is the same as the M600 Pro, but with double the flight time. Compared to the M300/350's which carries 2.7 kg capacity, M300 can still be in your list if you are using a single payload for the mission.

For infrastructure inspections like powerlines or wind turbines, or Search & rescue missions, you usually take a zoom/RGB camera with a thermal sensor/Lidar. In these case, M400 is a good upgrade.

When it comes to surveying and mapping, you might only require the RGB or multispectral camera. In cases you do not require dual payloads or extremely long flights, the M300 is a more compact, field-friendly, and cost-effective solution. I would recommend getting the M400 if you are always doing mapping, getting a lot of jobs, it will save you up to 15-20% time and labour costs. The M400 can finish the job 1-2 flights less than the M300 in a day.

More importantly, it supports multiple payloads at the same time. Up to 7 attachments via 4 E-Port v2 ports. Think:

• H30T

• L1/L2 LiDAR

• P1 mapping camera

• Spotlight + loudspeaker for SAR

Previously, you’d need two drones or multiple flights to run thermal and LiDAR simultaneously. Now? One drone, one launch.

Sensor & Obstacle Avoidance

The M400's obstacle avoidance system combines:

• Binocular vision

• mmWave radar

• Rotating LiDAR

Illustration obtained from DJI M400 User manual.

Unlike older models that rely on vision and infrared alone, this multi-layered detection system excels at spotting thin objects like power lines, even in low light.

Pair it with DJI’s Power Line AR + L2 LiDAR, and you’ve got a drone that can trace live transmission lines safely, quickly, and at speed.

Mapping Efficiency: Cover More, Fly Less

Mapping 1,000 acres (≈4 km²):

• M300 + P1: ~5 flights (~4.5 hours incl. swaps)

• M400 + P1: ~3–4 flights (~3 hours max)

That’s up to 1.5 hours saved per project—less labour, less wear and tear, fewer battery sets.

Field Use: Real Ops in SAR, Night, and Harsh Weather

From -20°C to 50°C, rain or dust, the M400 is IP55 rated and mission-ready. Use cases include:

• Search & Rescue: Fly longer with TB100C tethered for extended ops

• Night Ops: H30T + spotlight (S1) + speaker (V1) combo

• Agriculture: Large paddock scan, thermal, NDVI, and RGB in one run

And for those already using the RC Plus controller and DJI Pilot 2 interface—zero learning curve.

Is the M400 Worth the Jump?

If you run complex missions, long-range inspections, or high-output mapping jobs, then yes, 100%.

It offers a balance:

• M600 Pro power with M300 endurance

• Heavier payload capacity than both

• Longer battery life and smarter integration

It helps to reduce costs over time (operational time needed and long-term battery cost).

Give us a call if you need help deciding:

M400: Shop page

M300: Shop page

M600: Shop page

The DJI Matrice 400 (M400) is DJI’s newest flagship enterprise drone platform. It’s designed for high-end applications such as public safety, inspection, emergency response, and construction (AEC). It builds on the foundation of the Matrice 300 (released in 2020) and the Matrice 350 (2023), offering major upgrades in flight time, payload flexibility, obstacle detection, and intelligent features.

For comparisons between M300, M400 and M600, please check: here.

Key Hardware Features

• Flight Time and Endurance
  The M400 offers a maximum flight time of 59 minutes with a standard payload and approximately 53 minutes hover time. With a 3 kg payload, it achieves about 44 minutes, and with the maximum payload of 6 kg, it still manages 31 minutes of flight time. This represents a 50% improvement in endurance compared to the Matrice 350.

• Flight Speed
  The M400 can fly at a maximum speed of 25 meters per second. It has an ascent speed of 10 meters per second and a descent speed of 8 meters per second, improving operational efficiency during takeoff and landing.

• Payload Capacity and Configuration
  The drone supports single, dual, and belly-mounted gimbal configurations. It features 4 built-in E-Ports, with one capable of expanding into 4 additional E-Ports. Up to 7 payloads can be mounted simultaneously. Payload capacity has been increased to 6 kg, more than double the M350's capability.

• Compatible Payloads
  Compatible payloads include the H30 camera series, P1 mapping camera, L2 LiDAR, S1 spotlight, V1 loudspeaker, and the Manifold 3 onboard computer. The M400 does not support older payloads like the H20 or L1 due to changes in hardware interfaces.

• Battery System
  The TB100 high-capacity battery (20,000 mAh) supports hot swapping. Built-in capacitors provide 45 seconds of backup power, allowing GPS and core systems to remain active during a swap. The battery supports 400+ charge cycles and is available in a tether-compatible version for extended hovering.

• Battery Charging Station (BS100)
  The BS100 station holds three TB100 batteries and offers rapid charging from 0% to 100% in 45 minutes (220V). It includes options for quiet mode, health monitoring, firmware updates, and auto-discharge.

• Controller (RC Plus 2 Enhanced)
  The updated controller has a brighter display, more processing power, and includes support for sub-2 GHz frequencies using a clip-on antenna. It improves ergonomics and introduces back buttons for quicker access during flights.

Transmission and Connectivity

• O4 Enterprise Enhanced Transmission
  Under FCC regulations, the drone can transmit video up to 40 km. Under CE/SRRC standards, it reaches up to 20 km. It also supports dual 4G dongles for automatic network switching to maintain stable connections in urban environments.

• Relay Capability
  The M400 can act as a signal relay for another M400 or M4 drone. This is useful for extending range in difficult terrain. Operators can set up one drone to relay the signal while flying another, and the controller displays battery levels, signal strength, and real-time positioning for both drones.

Obstacle Sensing and Safety

• Triple Sensor System
  The M400 combines three advanced sensing systems:

  1. Horizontal Rotating LiDAR mounted on top, detects thin wires (e.g. 21.6 mm at a 30-degree angle) and provides a 360-degree horizontal and 58-degree vertical field of view.

  2. Millimeter-Wave Radar is embedded in all six directions and detects obstacles like 12.5 mm wires up to 36 meters away. It functions well in fog, rain, or low light.

  3. Full-Color Fisheye Vision Cameras cover all four sides of the drone and provide real-time video for enhanced situational awareness. The downward vision sensor is black-and-white.

• Environmental Resilience
  The M400 has an IP55 rating, offering protection against dust, rain, and strong winds. Its operating temperature range is from -20°C to 50°C, making it suitable for extreme environments.

• Emergency Safety Features
  The drone will not take off if arms or batteries are not properly secured. It includes anti-collision beacons, and in the event of failure, it supports a three-propeller emergency landing mode if conditions allow. An ADS-B receiver alerts the pilot to nearby manned aircraft.

Intelligent Flight and AR Capabilities

• Augmented Reality (AR) Overlays
  AR visuals help pilots see power lines, roads, addresses, and landing zones directly in the FPV view or on the map. This increases flight safety and communication clarity.

• Smart Flight Planning
  The M400 includes intelligent features such as:

  • Cruise control with speed and direction lock

  • Tap-to-fly to specific map points

  • Orbiting points of interest (POI)

  • Real-time terrain following, both automated and manual

  • Live map annotations for lines, polygons, and areas

• Tracking and Detection
  AI-powered SmartTrack enables detection and tracking of vehicles, people, boats, and manually selected objects using both visual and thermal imagery.

• Opto-Rail Feature
  Marks the field of view of the camera on the map in real-time, which is particularly useful for search and rescue operations.

3D Mapping and Photogrammetry

• Smart 3D Capture
  With the P1 camera, the M400 can perform a quick flyover, generate a preliminary 3D point cloud, and then automatically calculate a photo-capture route based on desired resolution. The result is a high-detail 3D model.

• Slope and Geometric Path Support
  The M400 supports complex flight paths for mapping sloped terrain and other uneven surfaces, ideal for surveyors and mapping professionals.

Maritime Operations

• Boat Mode for Takeoff and Landing
  The M400 supports dynamic takeoffs and landings on moving vessels using a 3x3m marker on deck. The drone recognizes the marker and lands accordingly, even with return-to-home canceled. The controller’s GPS can serve as a moving home point.

Payload Integration and Accessories

• S1 Spotlight
  Delivers a high-intensity, auto-aligned beam. The spotlight aligns with the camera's zoom to ensure accurate illumination.

• V1 Loudspeaker
  Supports pre-recorded messages, real-time audio, and multi-language text-to-speech. The UI shows audio directionality for precise communication.

Software Ecosystem

• DJI Pilot 2
  The primary app for controlling the drone and accessing intelligent features.

• DJI FlightHub 2
  Enables live streaming, remote planning, payload control, and mission sharing. Also available in an offline mode for secure operations.

• DJI Terra & DJI Modify
  For post-processing of 2D/3D maps and point clouds. Allows editing, annotation, and sharing of models.

Data Security and Offline Operations

• Encryption and Privacy
  SD cards can be password protected. A local data mode disables all external communication. Logs can be deleted directly from the app before service or after sensitive missions.

• Offline Firmware Updates and Custom Maps
  Firmware can be updated using an SD card without internet access. Custom map layers can be imported using standard map tile formats (.mbtiles), ensuring full operational flexibility in disconnected environments.

Comparison with the Matrice 350

• The M400 offers approximately 50% longer flight time with payload.

• It doubles the payload capacity (6 kg vs. ~2.7 kg).

• Adds mmWave radar and LiDAR sensing in addition to visual systems.

• Supports up to 7 payloads simultaneously with new mounting architecture.

• Includes longer range (up to 40 km FCC), enhanced controller, and expanded accessory compatibility.

Use Cases

• Public Safety
  Real-time video, speaker and spotlight control, AR overlays, and terrain-following for efficient incident response.

• Search and Rescue
  Terrain-aware auto flight paths, live annotations, SmartTrack, and long hover time for overnight missions with tether battery.

• Maritime Patrol
  Boat landing mode, long-range communication, and improved stability make it suitable for offshore operations.

• Power Line Inspection
  Auto-follow for transmission lines, thin-wire detection, and high-resolution LiDAR support.

• Survey and Mapping
  Smart 3D capture, slope planning, and terrain tracking with DJI Terra and DJI Modify.

• Notable Project Example
  DJI used the M400 to map the Great Wall in extreme wind conditions, completing the mission in just 3 hours and producing a detailed 3D model.

For comparisons between M300, M400 and M600, please check: here.

Do you wonder how to access the flight data for your drone?

This is a quick guide on using AirData UAV if you own a DJI drone. In this guide, we will be using the M600p as a demonstration to show you the steps from post-flight to data accessing.

Record keeping

You can easily upload and sync your flight log. It is a good way to keep track of all your flight records, and it is free!

Troubleshooting

If something bad happens in flight, or you want to know some of your problems in the air, air data gives good records. All the flight details and basic information are on the overview page. Below are some examples of what you can get out of it.

General flight information and GPS data

Cell performance and deviations

By monitoring the battery health (voltage, temp, cell balance). It helps to catch early signs of degradation.

Signal map and strength of different sensors.

Stick input analysis

With all the flight performance (Altitude, speed, pilot stick input (%) etc)x

All the above data can be exported in CSV, KML, PDF for flight analysis or maintenance records in case you need to do a warranty claim!

How?

Steps to guide you through:

1. After flight, feel free to shut down your drone. Only your device (eg. phone) is needed to extract data from it. The flight records are already saved under a folder inside your device.

2. Connect your phone to the laptop with a cable → Under the drive folder of your device → access the DJI Go folder from it.

3. There is a folder called “FlightRecords” with .txt files of your flights. Download them to your computer. For each flight, you should be getting on .txt files.

4. Create an account and log into AirData.

1. To upload the flight records, navigate as below:

Go to the top right corner, click the setting icon.

Open “MY LOGS” 

Go to “UPLOAD”.

From here, you can drag all the .txt files and upload them to the server.

6. After uploading, go to “FLIGHTS”.

From here, you can access different information of the flight. On the bottom of the overview, there is also an option to download the data in different formats.