In the world of FPV flight, stable signal performance and minimal latency are critical to a smooth experience. Today I’m doing a review. BDI Patch G2 Antennaspecially designed DJI Goggles 2. It aims to be a premium upgrade to basic antennas, promising improved range, better penetration and an innovative foldable design. But does it live up to the claims? Let’s find out.
If you’re new to FPV or want to understand antenna basics, check out this buyer’s guide: https://oscarliang.com/best-fpv-antenna/
Where to buy
You can purchase the BDI Patch G2 antenna at:
What’s in the box?
- 2x LHCP patch G2 antenna
- 1x 1.5mm hex wrench (for friction adjustment)
specification
specification
- get: 8.25~9.0dBic
- Polarization: LHCP
- Axis Ratio: < 1.5
- impedance: 50Ω
- Horizontal beamwidth: 134° (72° at -3dB)
- Vertical beamwidth: 108° (60° at -3dB)
- Bandwidth: 5.2GHz to 6.8GHz
- Highest Efficiency: >99%
- weight: 42g (antenna pair)
Main advantages of BDI patch antenna
Improved range and penetration
that BDI Patch G2 Features an 8.25~9.0dBi high gain circular polarization antenna. Compared to DJI’s low-gain basic antenna, it offers the following features:
- Better range and penetration.
- Provides more stable bit rates over longer distances or behind obstacles.
Plug and play design
installation BDI patch antenna It’s simple:
- Remove the primary antenna.
- Insert the BDI patch. Installation is quick and easy as no tools or screws are required for installation.
Foldable and adjustable
The standout feature is Foldable PTFE ball and socket mechanism This allows:
- Reduces wear and tear on MCX connectors by allowing for easy storage without the need for frequent removal.
- Adjustable antenna angle for optimal signal reception.
- Use the included hex wrench to adjust friction to ensure the antenna stays in place during use.
Lux Goggle Bag
This bag appears on the antenna product page, but I’m not sure if it’s included or if I need to purchase it separately. This is Luxe Goggle Bag Mini For DJI Goggles 2, the ultra-soft interior protects the goggles from scratches and makes transportation more convenient.
disadvantage
narrower reception angle
High-gain antennas such as BDI patches typically narrower beamwidthThis means that signal strength decreases when the drone is off to the side. For maximum performance, point the antenna directly at the drone. This means that the pilot must be aware of the drone’s location and turn his head towards it whenever necessary.
circular polarization
The BDI Patch G2 antenna is as follows: LHCP (left circular polarization). When paired with stocks Linearly Polarized DJI O3 Antenna Experience with a drone 3dB signal loss. For best performance, use an LHCP antenna on your drone as well.
price
to $80The BDI Patch G2 is one of the most expensive DJI Goggles 2 antenna upgrades on the market.
BDI Patch G2 Antenna Test
In this test, we used the DJI Goggles 2 in combination with the O3 Air Unit to test signal penetration by flying behind dense foliage at a height of 170 meters. We compared the video bitrate of the BDI patch antenna to the DJI stock antenna to determine which provides better range and penetration. We also flew sideways to evaluate the effective reception angle.
result
As expected, the BDI patch antenna performed better in both bit rate and consistency in our tests. Video bitrates are higher and more stable across the board, with less stuttering. In contrast, the stock antenna experienced random spikes in latency and received a yellow warning for low bitrate at the same test location. This clearly indicates that the BDI patch antenna provides higher gain, better penetration and wider range than the basic antenna. The bitrate hovered as it flew right in front of me. 30-40Mbps In most cases, BDI patches are used. 20-30Mbps With basic antenna.
However, as previously mentioned, the downside to higher gain antennas is that they have narrower beamwidths, resulting in weaker signal reception when flying sideways and backwards. This was also evident in my testing. When moved sideways (slightly more than 90 degrees), the bit rate decreases. 30Mbps The BDI patch allows you to use the default antenna. 40Mbps.
We haven’t taken this opportunity to test the FlyFish Flip G2 again, but previous tests have shown it to offer higher gain than the stock antenna. Depending on the specifications, the gain and beamwidth fall between basic and BDI patch antennas. If your primary focus is penetration, FlyFish is cheaper, but BDI Patch would be a better choice.
The TrueRC X-Air has similar specs to the BDI patch and actually has slightly higher gain. However, the X-Air lacks a foldable design, making it less convenient to transport, and its much narrower beam width means you have to be more precise about which direction you’re pointing when flying. You may unplug the X-Air for storage, but the antenna connector has a limited mating cycle, so it is best to unplug it infrequently.
Final Thoughts: Are BDI patch antennas worth it?
For most pilots flying over open fields, DJI’s stock antenna will suffice. However, if you want to make noticeable improvements, range and penetration For DJI Goggles 2 BDI Patch G2 Antenna It’s a good upgrade. It’s functional and convenient thanks to its foldable design and adjustable position. However, price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious pilots. To use the BDI patch to its full potential, use the BDI patch with: LHCP antenna On drones, the default O3 antenna is linearly polarized.
