DJI Matrice 4D Series: A Definitive Guide for Enterprise Drone Operators

In a world where drones are increasingly integral to critical operations—from emergency response to large-scale infrastructure inspections—the need for reliable, high-performance aircraft has never been greater. Across industries such as public safety, oil and gas, GIS, mining, construction, and utilities, professionals are demanding drones that offer not just impressive imaging and flight times, but also rugged design, advanced sensing, and automated workflows.

This is where DJI’s new Matrice 4D Series—encompassing the Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD—comes in. These enterprise-ready drones combine robust protection, extended flight endurance, and top-of-the-line camera systems, making them a compelling option for anyone seeking powerful data capture and analysis from the sky.

Standout Features of the Matrice 4D Series

DJI’s Matrice 4D Series represents a leap forward for commercial drone operators who push their gear to the limits. Unlike the foldable, more portable Matrice 4 Series, the Matrice 4D platforms are purpose-built for demanding missions, offering:

• Enhanced Durability
  With an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, operators can fly in harsh conditions, expanding their operational windows for time-sensitive missions like search and rescue or utility inspections.
• Longer Flight Times
  By delivering up to 47 minutes of hover and 54 minutes of forward flight, the Matrice 4D Series provides an impressive 37% increase in endurance over previous generations. This translates into fewer battery swaps, more data collected per flight, and greater overall efficiency.
• Dock 3 Integration
  For organizations looking to automate field operations and remote deployments, the Matrice 4D Series is engineered to work seamlessly with DJI Dock 3—enabling on-demand launches, landings, and charging with minimal human intervention.
• Standalone Combos
  Responding to enterprise user feedback, DJI now offers standalone combos for both the Matrice 4D and 4TD, each paired with the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise. These all-in-one packages make it easier for teams to quickly deploy the drone in the field, with the option to add Dock 3 down the line.

Ultimately, the Matrice 4D Series is all about versatility and scalability. Whether you’re focusing on detailed thermal inspections, high-resolution mapping, or all-weather endurance missions, these platforms cater to the diverse requirements of modern drone operations. In the following sections, we’ll break down the technical details, compare the Matrice 4D Series to the Matrice 4 Series, and explore how these new platforms fit into various industry workflows.

Quick Comparison: Matrice 4 Series vs. Matrice 4D Series (and where M30T Fits In)

When selecting an enterprise drone, professionals typically weigh factors such as protection rating, flight time, sensor capabilities, and overall cost. The Matrice 4D Series (M4D & M4TD) is DJI’s newest solution, offering IP55 protection, extended flight time (up to 54 minutes forward-flight), and full Dock 3 integration. In contrast, the Matrice 4 Series (e.g., M4T, M4E) focuses on portability and a lower purchase price but lacks an IP rating. Meanwhile, the Matrice 30T stands as a ruggedized option with a different sensor configuration and shorter flight time, often chosen for more specialized industrial use cases.

Below, you’ll find two layers of comparison:

• A brief M4 vs. M4D highlight.
• A side-by-side chart for the Matrice 4TD, Matrice 4T, and Matrice 30T, transcribed directly from the screenshot you shared.

This should help you pinpoint which model best suits your operational and budgetary needs.

Matrice 4 vs. Matrice 4D: Key Differences at a Glance

	Matrice 4 Series	Matrice 4D / 4TD Series
IP Rating	None	IP55 (dust & water resistance)
Flight Time	Up to ~49 min (approx.)	Up to 47 min hover / 54 min forward flight
Dock 3 Integration	Not supported	Supported (fully compatible with DJI Dock 3)
Camera Payload	Single/Multiple (varies)	4D: Wide/Med Tele/Tele + Laser Range Finder 4TD: Wide/Med Tele/Tele + IR Thermal + Laser Range Finder
Standalone Combos	Available with standard RCs	Available with DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise + new combos
Portability	Foldable design	More robust, less compact due to IP rating & additional sensors
Use Case	Quick field deployments	Rugged, extended missions, all-weather ops

Why Choose Matrice 4D?

• All-Weather Ops: IP55 rating and advanced obstacle avoidance.
• Extended Endurance: More flight time, higher battery cycle count.
• Automation: Pair with Dock 3 for remote missions or harness the onboard relay feature for beyond-line-of-sight scenarios.

Why Stick with Matrice 4?

• Portability: Foldable design, lighter overall weight.
• Budget: More cost-effective if IP rating and ultra-long flight times aren’t top priorities.
• Simplicity: Ideal for teams focusing on short-range, quick-deploy missions.

Detailed Comparison: Matrice 4TD vs. Matrice 4T vs. Matrice 30T

Below is the exact transcription of the comparison chart you provided. It’s a handy reference for understanding how the Matrice 4TD (part of the new 4D Series) measures up against the Matrice 4T and the Matrice 30T in terms of size, flight time, sensors, and more.

Key Observations from the Comparison Chart

1. Extended Endurance & Faster Charging
The Matrice 4TD not only flies longer (up to 54 minutes) but also charges in about 50 minutes—significantly faster than the Matrice 4T’s 78-minute cycle.

2. All-Weather Durability
Both the Matrice 4TD and Matrice 30T feature IP55 protection, while the Matrice 4T doesn’t have a rated IP level. This makes the 4TD and 30T better for operations in harsh or unpredictable climates.

3. Advanced Sensing & Automation
On-board Relay is supported exclusively by the Matrice 4TD, a huge advantage for search-and-rescue or beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations in challenging terrains. The Obstacle Sensing Module is also available on the Matrice 4TD, adding wire-level obstacle avoidance.

4. Thermal & NIR Capabilities
Both the Matrice 4TD and 4T have thermal sensors with super resolution up to 1280×1024. However, the 4TD has an additional NIR auxiliary light for more reliable nighttime ops, plus full-color and black-and-white night modes.

5. Payload Capacity & Gimbal Rotation
The Matrice 30T has a higher 300g payload capacity and broader pitch range (-120° to +45°), which may be beneficial for specialized payloads or upward inspections. However, it lacks the advanced night modes and on-board relay found in the 4TD.

How This Impacts Your Buying Decision

If you need all-weather resilience and longer flight times, the Matrice 4TD is a prime candidate. If budget and portability are your main concerns, the Matrice 4T might be enough. Meanwhile, the Matrice 30T could still be a suitable choice if you require a more established platform with a larger payload capacity. But for cutting-edge automation and advanced imaging, the Matrice 4TD typically stands out as the optimal choice.

In the next section, we’ll take a deep dive into the Matrice 4D Series itself: camera specs, AI features, Dock 3 integration, and how these upgrades translate into real-world productivity gains.

A Closer Look at the Matrice 4D Series

Model Overviews: Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD

Matrice 4D

Primary Focus: High-precision mapping and detailed surface inspections.

Camera Suite:

• Wide-Angle Camera (24mm eq.)
  
  • 4/3 CMOS, 20MP, f/2.8–f/11, mechanical shutter
    
  • Ideal for capturing distortion-free imagery over large areas
    
• Medium Tele Camera (70mm eq.)
  
  • 1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48MP, f/2.8
    
  • Useful for mid-range asset inspections
    
• Tele Camera (168mm eq.)
  
  • 1/1.5-inch CMOS, 48MP, f/2.8
    
  • Spot details (cracks, signage) at greater distances
    
• Laser Range Finder
  
  • Up to 1800m measurement range

Matrice 4TD

Primary Focus: Infrastructure inspections, emergency response, and public safety—thanks to its built-in infrared thermal camera.

Camera Suite:

• Wide-Angle Camera (24mm eq.)
  
  • 1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48MP, f/1.7
    
  • Larger aperture for better low-light imaging
    
• Medium Tele & Tele Cameras
  
  • Same specs as Matrice 4D (70mm & 168mm)
    
• Infrared Thermal Camera
  
  • 640×512 resolution (UHR up to 1280×1024), uncooled VOx
  • microbolometer, f/1.0
    
  • Identifies temperature anomalies, perfect for firefighting, SAR, and industrial thermography
    
• NIR Auxiliary Light
  
  • Covers up to 100 meters, enabling black-and-white night vision and improved nighttime detection

Both models share:

• IP55 Dust & Water Resistance
• Extended Flight Times – Up to 54 minutes in forward flight and 47 minutes in hover.
• Dock 3 Compatibility – For autonomous remote operations.

Advanced Camera & Sensor Technologies

• Night Scene Mode & IR-Cut Filter
  The series offers a full-color night vision mode. The Matrice 4TD goes a step further with the IR-Cut Filter, enabling black-and-white night vision—crucial for 24/7 surveillance in public safety and industrial inspection scenarios.
• Precision Obstacle Sensing (Optional Module)
  A specialized Obstacle Sensing Module combines rotating LiDAR and millimeter-wave radar to detect wires as thin as 12 mm. Particularly useful around complex structures such as power grids and dense urban environments.
• Foreground Stabilization for Telephoto
  Built-in stabilization ensures clarity at high zoom levels (10x or more), ideal for reading gauge data on tall infrastructure or capturing fine details during SAR missions.
• Laser Range Finder
  Provides up to 1800 m measurement range, enabling real-time distance data for quick calculations—especially when planning precise flight routes or evaluating hazards.
• UHR Infrared Image Mode (M4TD)
  Offers image resolutions up to 1280×1024 in thermal for detecting small temperature variations.

Flight Performance & Operational Enhancements

Longer Flight & Faster Charging
Both M4D and M4TD can achieve 54 minutes of forward flight at 15 m/s and 47 minutes of hovering. The battery system supports up to 400 charge cycles, with a 0%–100% charge time of about 50 minutes—reducing downtime.

On-Board Relay Function
A hallmark of the Matrice 4D Series is its ability to function as a relay drone for another aircraft, effectively extending operational range in mountainous or obstructed areas without 4G coverage.

Dock 3 Integration
The Matrice 4D Series is fully compatible with DJI Dock 3, enabling autonomous launches, landings, and charging for long-term or repetitive missions such as perimeter security or environmental monitoring.

5-Directional Oblique Photography & Terrain Follow
Perfect for mapping tasks, as the drone can capture oblique and orthophoto images from multiple angles. Real-time terrain follow ensures consistent altitudes over varied ground elevations.

 Intelligent Software & Remote Operations

• DJI FlightHub 2 Integration
  Access advanced flight route planning like Smart 3D Capture, geometric routes, slope routes, and more. Also supports real-time data annotation and multi-operator collaboration.
• Automated Detection & Notifications
  Utilizing AI, the Matrice 4D Series can auto-detect anomalies and send alerts. Operators can set up “change detection” for periodic flights, highlighting differences in the environment.
• Enhanced Virtual Cockpit & Mouselook
  A refreshed interface enables operators to adjust the gimbal orientation via mouse, improving speed and accuracy during urgent missions.

New Accessories & Add-On Modules

• Obstacle Sensing Module (Optional) – LiDAR + millimeter-wave radar for ultra-precise obstacle avoidance.
• Gimbal-Following Spotlight (DJI AL1) – Illuminates subjects up to 100 meters away.
• Real-Time Voice Speaker (DJI AS1) – Broadcasts up to 300 meters, supporting real-time announcements, recorded audio, and text-to-speech.
• Third-Party Payload Support – E-Port for accessories like parachutes or specialized sensors, plus an additional rear PSDK port.

Data Security & Compliance

• User-Controlled Data Sharing – Opt-in policy for photos, videos, and flight logs.
• Enterprise-Grade Encryption & Certifications – AES-256 encryption, ISO 27001 & ISO 27701 compliance.
• Flight Termination System (FTS) – Built-in FTS for C6 compliance and an extra layer of safety in regulated airspace.

Extended Warranties & Post-Sales Support

DJI Care Enterprise Plus
First year of coverage included in regions where DJI Care Enterprise is offered, covering unlimited free repairs, battery replacements, and more.

Official Extended Warranty Service
For countries without DJI Care Enterprise, an extra year of warranty is automatically applied upon activation.

Coverage for Obstacle Avoidance Failures
Under certain conditions (strong GNSS, normal weather, etc.), DJI may offer free repairs if collisions occur due to sensor failure. Exclusions apply for fast-moving objects, severe weather, or regions where radar isn’t activated.

Pricing & Availability

Standalone Combos
Matrice 4D starts at $8,478, Matrice 4TD starts at $10,778 (batteries sold separately). Official U.S. availability is coming soon, with more details to be announced.

Key Features & Capabilities

Extended Flight Performance

Up to 54 Minutes Forward Flight
At a cruising speed of 15 m/s, the Matrice 4D/4TD delivers an industry-leading 54 minutes of forward flight time. This leap in endurance allows teams to cover wider areas in a single mission, reducing the number of battery swaps and saving valuable time.

47 Minutes of Hover
When in a stationary hover, both models provide up to 47 minutes—a 37% increase over many previous DJI enterprise platforms. This is particularly advantageous for thorough inspections of hard-to-reach structures or prolonged aerial overwatch in public safety scenarios.

Faster Battery Charging & Higher Cycle Life
Thanks to the new battery system, charging from 0% to 100% takes only about 50 minutes—substantially quicker than previous models. The battery also supports up to 400 charge cycles, enabling a longer overall lifespan and lowering operational costs over time.

Rugged Design & IP55 Protection

All-Weather Durability
With an IP55 rating, both Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD can handle challenging environments, including light rain, high-dust areas, and industrial settings. This extends the operational window significantly, cutting down weather-related downtime.

Advanced Obstacle Sensing (Optional Module)
A specialized Obstacle Sensing Module combining LiDAR and millimeter-wave radar is available, enabling detection of thin wires (12 mm) at speeds up to 15 m/s. This is especially critical for powerline inspections and operations near complex infrastructure or in low-light conditions.

Folded vs. Non-Folded
While the older Matrice 4 Series offered a more compact, foldable design, the 4D Series opts for a sturdier build that accommodates extra sensors, higher battery capacity, and advanced protective features. The result is a heftier but far more versatile platform for harsh conditions.

Multi-Camera Payload & Exceptional Imaging

• Triple Cameras + Laser Range Finder
  Wide-angle, medium tele, and tele lenses capture everything from expansive overviews to tiny details like cracks.
• Thermal & NIR Auxiliary Light (M4TD)
  A 640×512 thermal sensor and NIR illumination for nighttime or low-light operations.
• Foreground Stabilization & Electronic Dehazing
  High zoom images remain clear and stable, while dehazing improves clarity in smoggy or humid conditions.

Intelligent Flight & Mission Planning

Dock 3 Compatibility
By integrating with DJI Dock 3, the Matrice 4D/4TD can autonomously launch, land, and recharge, enabling remote or semi-autonomous missions.

On-Board Relay Function
One Matrice 4D/4TD can hover high and maintain a line-of-sight connection as a relay, significantly expanding the operational range of a second drone.

Mission Customization via FlightHub 2
Smart 3D Capture, terrain follow, and automated object detection let operators plan precise flight routes and receive real-time alerts for anomalies.

Night Operations & Low-Light Capabilities

Full-Color Night Vision
The Matrice 4D Series introduces a Night Scene mode that brightens ambient light to provide color imagery even in dim conditions—ideal for security patrols or nighttime inspections.

Black-and-White Night Vision & NIR (M4TD)
Unique to the Matrice 4TD, the IR-Cut Filter toggles between full-color and black-and-white night vision. The additional NIR auxiliary light extends visibility up to 100 m.

High-Precision Mapping & Photogrammetry

5-Directional Oblique Photography
The gimbal can rotate to capture multiple angles in a single flight, reducing the time needed for oblique mapping tasks.

Real-Time Terrain Follow
Maintains consistent altitude over varied elevations, minimizing collision risks and improving data accuracy.

Integration with DJI Terra & FlightHub 2
Smart 3D Capture routes, slope routes, and real-time data syncing streamline post-processing for detailed models or orthomosaics.

Enterprise Data Security & Compliance

• AES-256 Encryption – Ensures secure data transfer between drone and controller.
• ISO 27001 & ISO 27701 Certifications – DJI FlightHub 2 meets leading info security and privacy standards.
• Flight Termination System (FTS) – Provides manual or auto termination if geofencing boundaries are breached.

Ready for Enterprise-Scale Support

DJI Care Enterprise Plus
In supported regions, the Matrice 4D/4TD includes the first year of coverage at no additional cost—covering unlimited free repairs, battery replacements, and more.

Extended Warranty
In other countries, a one-year extended warranty activates upon registration.

Mission-Critical Collision Coverage
If the Obstacle Sensing Module is installed and certain conditions are met, DJI may offer free repair for collisions caused by sensor failure.

The Standalone Combos: Key Highlights

What’s Included in the Standalone Combos

Aircraft (M4D or M4TD)
Comes with the full sensor suite—triple cameras plus a laser range finder (and a thermal camera + NIR auxiliary light for M4TD).

DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise
A highly durable remote controller with an ultra-bright display (7.02 inches, 1400 nits) and O4 Enterprise video transmission for ranges up to 25 km (FCC), plus robust connectivity options.

Charging Hub & Power Adaptor
A 240W Charging Hub can handle up to 3 batteries in sequence, reducing downtime. A 240W Power Adaptor is also included for rapid recharging.

Propellers
Three pairs of Low-Noise Anti-Ice propellers (with spares) ensure you have enough for multiple deployments.

Carrying Case
A sturdy drone hard case designed to accommodate the aircraft, RC Plus 2 Enterprise, and up to 4 Intelligent Flight Batteries.

Intelligent Flight Batteries (Sold Separately)
The combos do not include flight batteries by default, so you’ll need to purchase those based on your mission needs.

Pricing & Availability

Matrice 4D Combo: TBA
Matrice 4TD Combo: TBA
U.S. launch is “coming soon,” with no specific date announced. Stay in touch with Advexure or sign up for notifications for the latest info.

Who Should Consider a Standalone Combo?

• Public Safety & Emergency Responders – Need a rugged, quick-launch drone for diverse missions (firefighting, SAR, law enforcement).
• Utility & Industrial Inspection Teams – Require extended flight times and advanced imaging without an immediate need for Dock 3.
• Surveying & Mapping Firms – Benefit from high-precision photogrammetry without a fixed docking station but can upgrade later.
• Enterprise Drone Programs on a Growth Path – Get top-tier specs now, add automation features later.

Use Cases Across Industries

Public Safety & Emergency Response

Firefighting & Search-and-Rescue (SAR)
Thermal Imaging (M4TD) quickly spots hotspots or missing individuals. The drone’s Night Scene Mode and NIR auxiliary light allow nighttime operations, and the on-board relay function extends mission range in obstructed regions.

Law Enforcement
Use zoom and telephoto to monitor large events, crime scenes, or suspect pursuits from a safe distance. Real-time AI-based detection can identify vehicles or vessels automatically, sending notifications to command centers.

Oil, Gas & Utilities

Pipeline & Powerline Inspections
Extended flight time and IP55 rating permit thorough inspections in various weather conditions. The obstacle sensing module helps avoid collisions with power lines or complex industrial structures.

Substation & Equipment Maintenance
Thermal cameras (M4TD) pinpoint overheating components, reducing risk of service interruptions. Laser range finders measure distances precisely for layout checks.

Mining & Construction

Site Surveys & Volumetric Analysis
5-Directional oblique capture helps gather data for volumetric calculations or digital twins. Real-time terrain follow ensures consistent altitude over uneven terrain.

Progress Monitoring & Safety Checks
With robust flight times, you can conduct in-depth inspections of cranes, scaffolding, and other large structures without sending personnel into hazardous areas.

GIS & Surveying

High-Precision Mapping
Mechanical shutters (M4D) minimize distortion, critical for reliable orthomosaics. 3-Directional orthophoto and oblique capabilities expand your photogrammetry toolkit.

Automated Route Planning
Smart 3D Capture lets you design flights around complex landscapes, generating accurate data in fewer passes.

Other Sectors & Tailored Solutions

• Maritime & Port Security – NIR auxiliary light helps nighttime vessel monitoring, while on-board relay overcomes line-of-sight issues around large ships.
• Disaster Management & Insurance – Regular flights detect post-storm or earthquake damage changes over time.
• Environmental Monitoring & Agriculture – Thermal imaging spots irrigation issues; extended flight times cover large fields more efficiently.

Making the Right Choice: Matrice 4 vs. Matrice 4D/4TD

Feature Highlights

Key Consideration	Matrice 4 Series	Matrice 4D/4TD Series
IP Rating	None	IP55 (dust & water resistance)
Flight Time	Up to ~49 min (e.g., M4T, standard props)	Up to 54 min forward-flight, 47 min hover
Foldability & Portability	Foldable design, lighter	Heavier, sturdier design
Dock 3 Integration	Not supported	Fully compatible; ideal for autonomous or remote deployments
Obstacle Sensing Radar	Not available (visual sensors only)	Optional LiDAR + mmWave radar module
On-Board Relay	Not supported	Supports dual-drone relay for extended range
Battery Charging	~78 min from 0–100%	~50 min from 0–100%; up to 400 cycles
Entry Pricing	Lower base cost	Higher base cost ($8,478+), with more robust features

Cost vs. Capability

Matrice 4 Series
Budget-friendly, foldable, and great for milder environments or short-range missions. If IP rating and long flight endurance aren’t priorities, it could save you money.

Matrice 4D Series (M4D, M4TD)
All-weather powerhouse with IP55 rating, extended flight times, optional LiDAR-based sensing, and Dock 3 compatibility. Excellent ROI for demanding environments or large-scale operations.

Where Does the Matrice 30T Fit?

With a shorter flight time (~41 min) and lacking features like on-board relay, the Matrice 30T is still rugged and comes at a slightly lower price compared to the 4TD. However, if you need the latest AI capabilities and maximum endurance, the M4TD typically offers greater long-term value.

Typical Buyer Profiles

• Budget-Conscious Teams / Frequent Travel
  Choose Matrice 4 Series for portability and simpler missions.
• Industries Needing All-Weather & Endurance
  Choose Matrice 4D or 4TD for IP55 protection, advanced obstacle avoidance, and rugged build.
• Organizations Planning Long-Term Automation
  If Dock 3 or remote deployments are on your roadmap, the Matrice 4D Series offers a seamless upgrade path.
• Public Safety & Thermal Users
  M4TD provides advanced thermal imaging, NIR auxiliary light, and night vision features crucial for SAR and firefighting.

Balancing CapEx and OpEx

Beyond the purchase price, consider operational expenses—battery replacements, maintenance, and staff time. The M4D Series’s battery longevity (400 cycles) and Dock 3 automation may offset higher initial costs by reducing labor and downtime.

Final Thoughts on Choosing

The Matrice 4 Series excels in portability and cost-effectiveness, whereas the Matrice 4D Series stands out for its ruggedness, flight time, advanced sensors, and potential Dock 3 integration. If your operations demand all-weather reliability and longer missions, M4D or M4TD is likely the better fit. Otherwise, the Matrice 4 Series could suffice for modest budgets and mild environments.

Explore More with Advexure

Visit Our Product Pages
For an in-depth look at the Matrice 4D/4TD specs, bundle options, and anticipated availability, head over to our 4D Series product pages. You’ll also find details on Dock 3, third-party accessories, and more.

Get Expert Guidance
Whether you’re deciding between the Matrice 4 or Matrice 4D Series, our team at Advexure is here to answer any questions and help configure the perfect drone solution for your industry. Contact us directly for one-on-one support.

Stay Updated on U.S. Availability
Be the first to know when the Matrice 4D standalone combos officially launch in the U.S. Subscribe to our newsletter or follow our social channels for release announcements, promotions, and demo event details.

At the end of the day, choosing a drone isn’t just about specs; it’s about real-world impact—saving time, reducing risks, and opening new possibilities for your organization. The Matrice 4D/4TD excels across multiple industries, delivering robust performance and intelligent automation in nearly any environment.