I am contemplating the acquisition of a DJI Mini 2 for personal use. Considering that this would be my first drone and more of an experimental venture, I am inclined to abstain from investing in newer drone models, and the Mini 2 aligns with my budgetary constraints. I did used it for a couple of days and I believe it will suffice my need for the time being.
However, I have a few questions:
1. I am exploring the option of procuring a refurbished unit from the United States, preferably from the DJI official store on platforms such as eBay or other reputable stores. Does opting for a refurbished drone make practical sense, or is it an ill-advised decision?
2. Are there any retailers or establishments in India offering the DJI Mini 2 at a reasonable price point?
1). Dji refurbished are known to be in very good condition and functions perfectly.
So it is worth taking a chance but it's still a small chance of getting a bad version.
So go for it if you can take 95/5 chances.
2). Now you will find many photography/ camera equipment shops that do sell drones ( though India has banned DJI drones(chinese drones but still easily available). They are mostly Dubai imports from what I have seen.
They test it right in front of you so it is much safer option.
You will find some retailers selling online too but they look pricey.
I don't know about your place but in Kolkata we have metro gali( camera and photography shops) they all have drones and they are decently priced like 10k -12k above UAE price I have noticed.
In Delhi also my friend said there are shops that had great prices on drones.
Check for such places in your city selling camera and photography gears and they should provide you with decent offer on drones too.
Now to add a personal opinion...
Two advice I would like to give ..one buying drone is bit courageous investment as it is very easy to mess it up. I have had birds coming to attack my drone out of nowhere but got very lucky .
Ofcourse the footage you get from drone is just out of the world.( it requires good dedication to get that art right though )
But just saying have the courage to lose that investment too.
Second DJI is bas**** when it comes to providing battery and spare parts for older drones.( DJI mini 2 is now quite old..great drone though)
They stop the production much earlier than it is supposed to and that gives price rise situation and shortage of availability too.
So buying something latest is more sensible as it will still be having those spare part support for longer time.
Just my 2 cent.