Autel Evo 2 Series Drones, Specs, and Updates (2025 Guide)

The Autel Evo 2 family is a line of folding drones known for high-resolution cameras and long flight times. The EVO II platform launched in 2020 and has since grown into several models. The lineup now includes the original 8K EVO II, the autel evo 2 pro (6K camera with 1″ sensor), and the autel evo 2 dual 640t (an 8K drone with a 640×512 thermal sensor). Each comes in ruggedized “enterprise” and “RTK” bundles. Autel also released updated “V3” versions of these drones: the autel evo 2 pro v3 and autel evo 2 dual 640t V3, which share upgraded hardware and firmware. (The term autel drone evo 2 often refers to any model in this series.)

Across the line, Evo II drones boast ~40‑minute max flight time (38 minutes under no-wind), advanced obstacle sensing, and 10 km+ control range. For example, the EVO II base model can fly up to 40 minutes and 10 km, while the Dual 640T V3 has a 38‑minute flight time and 25 km range. All models use removable batteries, rugged frames, and foldable arms for portability. They also offer features like waypoint planning, subject tracking, and custom cinema modes via the Autel Explorer app.

Model Variants and Highlights

• Autel EVO II Dual 640T (Thermal) – Sometimes called the EVO II Thermal, this model adds an 8K visual camera plus a FLIR thermal imager. The 8K camera has a 1/1.28″ 50MP sensor (85° FOV, f/1.9), and the thermal camera is 640×512 at 12 MP. The Dual 640T is heavy (weight ~1209 g) but still flies ~38–40 min. It supports 16× digital zoom on the thermal feed. This is a top choice for search-and-rescue, firefighting, inspections, and patrols where heat detection is needed.
• Enterprise Bundles (V3) – Each of the above has updated V3 versions and enterprise bundles. The autel evo 2 pro v3 and autel evo 2 dual 640t V3 use a new processor (for features like faster Wi-Fi image downlink and better security) and have the latest firmware. In practice they look and fly much like the original Pro and Dual, but with things like smoother zoom, live temperature readouts, and new pairing methods. The V3 models require firmware updates and the Autel Explorer app version 3.x to unlock all features.
• Other Variants – Autel also sells RTK versions (with centimeter GPS) and Enterprise bundles (rugged cases, speakers, strobes, etc.) for these drones. For instance, the EVO II Enterprise adds a loudspeaker and beacon. Those extras are beyond our scope but worth noting if you see them advertised.

Autel Evo 2 Series Pricing

Pricing depends on bundle and version. Currently, the autel evo 2 dual 640t price is roughly in the mid-$4000s to $5000 range for new units. For example, the official store lists the EVO II Dual 640T V3 (Rugged Bundle) at $4,799.00 USD (marked down from $5,999). More advanced bundles (with RTK or Enterprise kit) run around $5,300–$5,800. 

The EVO II Pro 6K kits are about $3,000–$3,200 (e.g. the Enterprise bundle at ~$3,149). The base EVO II 8K model is sometimes harder to find on the official US store (Autel has shifted focus to V3, but third-party retailers still sell it). In short, expect roughly $3k–$6k depending on model and accessories.

Specifications and Features

Here’s a quick rundown of key specs (approximated for 2024–25 models):

• Cameras:
  • EVO II 8K: 48MP 1/2″ sensor; shoots up to 7680×4320 video; fixed f/1.8 lens.
  • EVO II Pro/Pro V3: 20MP 1″ sensor; 5472×3076 (6K) video; adjustable f/2.8–f/11 aperture.
  • EVO II Dual 640T: 50MP 1/1.28″ sensor (85° FOV, f/1.9) for visible imagery; plus a 640×512 thermal camera.
  • All support digital zoom: up to 8× (4× lossless) in base/Pro/V2 models. The Pro V3 and Dual V3 extend digital zoom to 16× (with 3–4× optical-quality or “lossless” zoom)
• Flight Time & Range: Up to ~38–40 minutes (no-wind) on a full battery. Max transmission range around 9–10 km (FCC rating; CE ~5 km). For instance, EVO II Dual V3: 38 min flight, 33 min hover, 25 km range.
• Sensors & Flight: All models have omni-directional obstacle avoidance with 12 sensors (forward, back, up, down) and GPS/GLONASS. Top speed ~44 mph (72 km/h). Max takeoff ~1.2–1.3 kg (with battery; e.g. 1209 g for Dual 640T V3). Operating temp: about -10 to +40 °C.
• Controller: Autel’s SkyController features a built-in 7.85″ OLED screen on newer kits (or connects to your phone/tablet). It uses the Autel Explorer app (Android/iOS) for telemetry and camera view. It has dual 2.4/5.8 GHz video links for redundancy.
• Remotes & Charging: The controllers have internal batteries. To charge the Autel Evo 2 controller, open the USB port cover and plug in the provided cable. In practice any USB cable fits – most owners use a micro-USB cable to charge it from the wall or multi-charger.
  
• Software/Firmware: Autel drones use the Autel Explorer app (replacing the older Autel Sky). Firmware updates often come via the app (OTA). Recent updatesadd things like new pairing modes, improved video feed, and compliance features (see below). Autel also provides accessory apps for things like 3D flight missions (BotGrinder).

Autel Evo 2 Software and Firmware Updates

Autel regularly updates EVO II firmware to add features or ensure compliance. Notable recent updates include:

• EU/UK Remote ID & No-Fly Zones: In July 2024 Autel released firmware V1.1.78 for the EVO II V3 series (Pro V3 and Dual V3) to meet EU/UK rules. This update “optimizes Remote ID function required for EU/UK compliance” and also “optimizes no-fly zone function”.  In short, Autel has pushed a firmware that will broadcast remote ID info and show updated geo-lock warnings for EU/UK operators.
• Remote ID (USA): The FAA’s September 2023 rule requires broadcast or appendable Remote ID. Autel has been rolling out compliance via firmware for its newer models. By mid‑2023, Autel announced that all EVO II V3 units (Pro V3, Dual V3, Enterprise V3) are “Standard Remote ID Compliant” (per FAA) once updated. Installing firmware v1.1.9 on a Pro V3 or Dual V3 adds a “Remote ID” menu in settings, where you enter your pilot credentials. (Older EVO II versions need an external broadcast module per FAA.)
• Other Features: Autel’s July 2024 update also added a convenient pairing method: double-click the battery power button to enter pairing mode. It improved video link stability and HDMI output. Earlier firmware (mid-2023) had already smoothed out the camera zoom control: the EVO II V3 family now offers smooth zoom with the scroll wheel, eliminating the old jerky steps. And of course, Autel continues to refine stability and add minor optimizations via the Explorer app.

Overall, owners should keep their Autel Explorer app (v3.x) and drone firmware up to date. The system will usually prompt an update when online. After any update, it’s wise to test the drone in a safe area.

Comparisons and Upgrades

Compared to early EVO II releases, the V3 editions are mostly incremental upgrades:

• EVO II vs EVO II V3: The V3 drones share the same cameras and airframe, but have a new integrated chip. This enables faster data links and the latest encryption/compliance features. You may not notice a big change except in the software. Importantly, all V3 batteries are compatible with V1/V2 drones, so your existing batteries still work. Autel also claims improved signal range on V3 (though specs are similar).
• Pro vs Base: The autel evo 2 pro (6K/1″) has a larger sensor and adjustable aperture, so it outperforms the 8K model in low light and depth-of-field control. However, the 8K model (EVO II 8K) has higher raw resolution (48MP stills). For most users, the Pro is more flexible for professional imaging. The Pro V3 uses the same camera, so think of it as a firmware upgrade.
• Thermal vs Non-Thermal: The autel evo 2 thermal (Dual 640T) adds the thermal payload. It’s heavier but opens up new use cases (see below). Otherwise it flies like the base model. Note that the Dual 640T has the base 8K sensor, not the 6K 1″ of the Pro.
• Zoom and Accessories: If zoom is a priority, also consider Autel’s EVO Lite+ (3× optical zoom) or EVO Max (10× optical), but those are separate models. Within EVO II, zoom is mostly digital. As noted, zoom ranges improved from 8× digital (with 4× lossless) on older units to 16× digital (3× lossless) on V3 for the Pro.

Applications Of Autel EVO 2 Series Drones

Autel Evo II drones serve both pros and enthusiasts: from casual pilots capturing 8K scenery, to enterprise teams needing thermal for missions. The range of accessories (loudspeaker, strobe, beacon) and mounts (like a FPV module or extended battery pack) further expand use cases.

• Search & Rescue: The EVO II Dual 640T V3 is popular in SAR operations. Its 640×512 thermal camera can pick out a person’s heat signature at night or through foliage. For example, during a rescue mission responders appreciated that “the EVO II Dual 640T V3’s high-resolution thermal sensor detects heat signatures from –20°C to +150°C” so missing persons or hotspots show up easily. Its 16× digital zoom lets crews scan wide areas from a safe distance, and a built-in spotlight/strobe (on Enterprise models) aids night search.

• Firefighting: Fire departments use the thermal EVO to see through smoke. In a blaze, the thermal imager reveals hotspots and fire spread patterns hidden to the naked eye. In practice, teams overlay the 8K visible and thermal feeds to plan where to aim hoses. The drone’s rugged design and wind resistance also help in turbulent fire conditions.

Also Read: Top 14 Thermal Drones Based On Imaging Systems & Flight Performance

• Industrial Inspection & Mapping: Companies use the EVO II Pro 6K for pipeline inspections, power line surveys, and site mapping. The 20MP 1″ sensor delivers crisp images for detecting cracks or leaks. Thermal inspectors sometimes mount the 640T on a tripod to scan solar panels or HVAC systems. Autel’s obstacle avoidance is helpful when inspecting complex structures (e.g. drilling rigs). The RTK bundle enables high-precision 3D mapping on projects.
• Law Enforcement & Security: Police and security teams use the Dual 640T (or Pro) for patrol and surveillance. The long-range transmission (up to 8–9 km) and 48MP low-light camera let officers covertly monitor a scene from afar. Autel even offers a version with a 100 dB loudspeaker for crowd control or instructions. In daytime operations, operators can use 16× zoom to read license plates or identify individuals.

View Autel Drones In U.S. Public Safety Operations

• Cinematography & Content Creation: Videographers rent the EVO II Pro for cinematic drone shots. Its 6K/30fps video (in CinemaDNG or 10-bit modes) and adjustable aperture mimic high-end cameras. Creative pilots note the “large ISO range” for night scenes. Social media users also like the vertical video modes enabled by the 4-axis gimbal (can tilt camera 90° for portrait video). The smooth slow-motion modes (up to 4K/60fps) make for dramatic aerial b-roll.
• Environmental Monitoring: The thermal model can track wildlife at night or monitor farmland irrigation (by spotting heat differences). Researchers have used EVO II Dual to count animals or find poachers. Its no-fly-zone warnings (see below) help avoid restricted areas during such flights.

Regulations & Safety Features in Autel Evo II Drones

Geofencing and No-Fly Zones

A common question is does autel evo 2 have geofencing? Historically Autel touted no geofence, meaning they did not prevent flights in restricted zones (unlike DJI). However, since 2021 Autel began adding geofencing warnings (not hard locks). Current EVO II firmware includes a global no-fly database: when you power on, the app checks if you are near airports or other NFZs. It will pop up alerts (e.g. at airports), but it will not physically stop takeoff unless local law demands it. \Autel EVO II drones now support geofencing in the US, Australia, Japan and Greater China – though these are just notifications unless the country requires a lock. So you will only see notifications. You will not be restricted from taking off.

So in practice, Autel’s geofence is advisory. The Autel Explorer app highlights nearby no-fly zones on the map and issues alerts, but it trusts the pilot’s judgment. (This approach is deliberate: Autel believes in pilot responsibility rather than auto-locking.) Still, pilots should manually avoid restricted airspace; the warnings make the drone aware of local rules. Autel continues updating its NFZ database via firmware.

Remote ID Compliance

Another big question is does autel evo 2 have remote id. Yes – but with caveats. As of September 2023 FAA Rule, most drones must broadcast location & ID. Autel’s latest EVO II V3 drones are recognized as Standard Remote ID Compliant when updated. Officially, “all Autel EVO II V3 units” (with certain serials) are compliant after applying firmware. Autel’s release notes (for US/Japan) confirm firmware v1.1.9 adds Remote ID support on the EVO II Pro V3 and Enterprise V3. In other words, once you run the update, the Autel Explorer app will show a Remote ID setting to enter your pilot ID (FAA Remote ID number or certificate).

For the base EVO II (V1) and Pro V2, Autel did not add internal Remote ID in firmware; owners must use an external broadcast module per FAA. But for any V3 model (Pro V3, Dual V3, etc.), the built-in Remote ID functions are active after updating. In the EU/UK, Remote ID (sometimes called eID) is now a legal requirement too. Autel’s July 2024 firmware makes the EVO II V3 fully compliant with EASA rules. If you operate in regulated airspace, update to firmware V1.1.78 (or later) and use the Autel Explorer app to enter your registration.

In summary: Yes, updated Autel Evo 2 drones support Remote ID. The V3 series broadcasts its ID automatically once you fill in pilot info in the app. Pilots should verify the Remote ID status in the aircraft settings and follow local registration rules.

Geographical Regulations

Autel Robotics is a Chinese drone manufacturer headquartered in Shenzhen, China. While it has a significant operational base in the U.S., including a facility in Bothell, Washington, its primary headquarters and core operations remain in China. The company has been involved in discussions regarding national security concerns in the U.S., similar to other Chinese technology firms. 

In addition to US/EU rules above, note:

• USA: No mandatory geofencing lock (just advisory zones) but Remote ID is required. Autel EVO II V3 will broadcast as needed. Pilots must register drones >250g with the FAA.
• EU/UK: EASA rules require eID on most drones since 2024. The July 2024 update enables this. New EU firmware also fine-tunes the (advisory) no-fly zones map for European airspace.
• Other Regions: Autel’s update introduced geofencing data for some countries (Japan, China, Australia). Depending on local law, the drone may alert you to national parks, airports, etc. Always check local regulations (Autel’s app will show Geo alerts if the region is covered).

Related Reading: How Pentagon Blacklist Affects Autel Drone Users

Operating The Autel Evo 2 Drones

1. Setting Up For The Flight

Before you take off, make sure to:

• Unfold the arms and propellers completely.

• Fully charge the drone and remote control (a red light means it’s charging; green means it’s ready).

• Install the Autel Explorer™ app for live views and camera settings.

• Check that your firmware is up to date via the app—this ensures smooth performance and legal compliance (like Remote ID in the US or eID in the EU).

Tip: Don’t skip the compass and IMU calibration if you’re in a new location—it helps your drone stay steady in the air.

2. Using The Remote Control

• Use the left stick to go up/down or rotate.

• Use the right stick to move forward/backward or sideways.

• The gimbal dial (left shoulder) lets you tilt the camera up and down smoothly without touching the screen.

• Press and hold the Takeoff/Land button to launch or auto-land your drone.

Pro tip: Want cinematic tilts while filming? Use the gimbal dial gently to add professional flair.

3. Flying Smart and Safe

• Always fly in line of sight and avoid water surfaces.

• Watch for app warnings like low battery or restricted zones (Autel gives alerts but lets you decide).

• Use Return to Home (RTH) if battery drops below 25%—this prevents crashes.

• Avoid flying under the influence or if you’re too tired. Sounds basic, but it’s crucial.

Reminder: Autel drones don’t hard-lock you out of no-fly zones—but they will warn you. Fly responsibly.

 4. Capturing Visuals

Evo II drones support modes like:

• HDR, Time-lapse, Burst, and AEB

• Night imaging with NIGHTBEAT

• Store media on the drone or a microSD card (up to 256 GB recommended)

File formats:

• Photos: JPG or DNG

• Videos: MP4 or MOV
  Transfer files using the USB-C port or by popping the microSD card into your laptop.

Bonus tip: Always power off the drone before removing the SD card to prevent file loss.

 5. Maintenance, Storage, and Firmware

• After each flight, inspect for visible damage (especially after a crash).

• Clean the lens with a soft cloth—no detergents.

• Store your drone in a cool, dry space between 22–28°C.

• Use only Autel-approved accessories to avoid damaging your system and voiding your warranty.

Firmware updates: Connect to Wi-Fi, launch the Autel Explorer app, and follow the prompt. You’ll thank yourself for smoother video, better stability, and legal compliance

FAQs About Autel Evo II Drones

Does Autel Evo 2 have geofencing?

Yes – but only as notifications. Autel EVO II drones include a database of no-fly zones, so when you power up in a controlled area the app will alert you. Importantly, Autel does not enforce a hard lock (unlike some other brands). The UAV will warn you (showing airport/restricted zones), but it will still arm and take off unless you choose to avoid the area. In short, Autel Evo 2 has geofencing alerts for safety, but it trusts the pilot to obey them.

Does Autel Evo 2 have Remote ID?

Yes, with updated firmware. The EVO II V3 series (Pro V3, Dual V3, etc.) are Remote ID–ready. After installing the required firmware (e.g. v1.1.9 or higher) you will see a “Remote ID” option in the general settings. Enter your registered pilot ID or FAA Remote ID number there. Once activated, the drone will broadcast its ID and GPS location per regulations. If you see “Activated” in the app, you’re compliant. (If your EVO II is an older model, you may need an external RID module.) In Europe/UK, Autel’s latest update also ensures compliance with eID requirements.

How to charge Autel Evo2 controller

The EVO II controller has a built‑in battery that you charge via USB. Simply open the protective cover over its USB port and plug in the supplied cable The controller typically uses a micro‑USB connection, so any standard micro‑USB cable and 5V charger will work. You can even charge the controller using the drone’s multi‑charger hub (if you have it), or a phone power bank. While charging, the controller’s power button light turns red; it will beep and turn green when full. Always fully charge the controller before flying to avoid mid‑flight shutoff.

Does Autel Evo 2 have zoom?

Yes. All Autel Evo II variants support digital zoom in camera. Specifically, every EVO II (8K, Pro 6K, and Dual 640T) can digitally zoom up to 8× (with up to 4× being “lossless” or without significant quality loss). This means you can pinch‑zoom the live feed to magnify distant objects up to 8×. On the EVO II Pro V3 (the updated 6K model), digital zoom goes up to 16× (with 3× of that being lossless). Keep in mind this is purely in-camera cropping; none of the EVO II models have an optical zoom lens. So, in short, yes it has zoom – just digital.

How do I control the gimbal on Autel Evo?

You have two options: the physical dial or the app. On the controller, the left dial/wheel on the shoulder panel tilts the gimbal up and down. Turning the wheel left tilts the camera down, turning it right tilts up. This lets you manually point the camera without touching the touchscreen. Alternatively, in the Autel Explorer app you can use on-screen gimbal controls or even assign a button. For example, you can map one of the custom buttons (C1/C2) to recenter or preset angles. In practice, most pilots use the left dial for smooth, real-time gimbal adjustment while flying.