DJI Zenmuse H20N v/s H20T; What’s the best?    

Let's talk about DJI's Zenmuse H20 Series - DJI's first hybrid sensor solution. The payloads in the H20 series (DJI Zenmuse H20N and DJI Zenmuse H20T) share multiple similarities but have certain variations too. And the significant difference between them lies in the slight change in the labelling at the end – T or N. T for 'Thermal' and N for 'Night Vision'; this is where the major difference lies, both cost-wise and function-wise. Pricing-wise, the H20N is a bit costlier than its thermal counterpart. Even though these payloads are meant for specific industrial needs, you might have this natural tendency to compare them. 'What's the best?' is a question we can't help. Don't worry; this article is for you. Let's explore DJI Zenmuse H20N v/s H20T; here, we will discuss about the headline innovations, similarities and differences of these incredible payloads in the H20 series.

Share This Post

What makes the difference?

Both DJI Zenmuse H20N and H20T are multi-sensor payloads. The H20N has thermal cameras, zoom and wide sensors, and a laser rangefinder. Whereas the H20T has a single thermal sensor, wide and zoom cameras with a laser rangefinder.

DJI Zenmuse H20N

Now that we know that both the payloads have thermal cameras, it is also noteworthy that the H20N and H20T share numerous thermal features too. For example, you’ll receive instant notifications in DJI Pilot when object temperatures exceed your pre-set alert values. You can also visualise a specific band of temperatures to find what is more important. Likewise, you can alter the colours applied to the thermal data based on particular scenarios. For instance, suppose you want to inspect the presence of human beings in a forest; you can pre-set the temperature range to 36.1°C to 37.2°C (normal body temperature of human beings), and assign a specific colour to this temperature, like red. Now, as the sensor scans the mission area, you’ll be able to visualise the presence of human beings in red colour on the screen.

However, the H20N’s thermal camera is not built for collecting precise thermal readings in inspection scenarios, as this payload is more specifically targeted for night missions. The H20N has a very large pixel size allowing more light for enhanced nighttime performance. However, this also means that the H2ON’s overall pixel count is less, especially compared to the H20T.

H20T’s zoom camera is 20MP, and it can achieve 23 times optical zoom and 200 times digital zoom. Whereas the H20N’s zoom camera is only 4MP, and can only facilitate 20 times optical zoom and 128 digital zoom. Furthermore, the H20T also has a 12MP wide camera, compared to a 2MP wide camera on the H20N. So clearly, H20T provides higher resolution, making it an ideal payload for daytime operations and inspection missions.

The Standout Features

Apart from the differences in the sensors in H20N and H20T, there are a few standout features that make them best suited for specific missions; just like the Synchronized Split-Screen Zoom in H20N and the AI Spot-check feature in H2OT.

The Starlight Sensors & Synchronised Split-screen in  DJI Zenmuse H20N

The H20N has double-efficient starlight sensors equipped with zoom and wide-angle cameras. A starlight sensor makes H20N the best option for low-light scenarios, as it even allows operators to identify light sources as low as 0.0001 Lux, far beyond what the human eye can see. 

In addition to it, H20N has the Synchronised Split-Screen Zoom feature. This feature lets the operators simultaneously sync the zoom between the thermal and starlight night vision cameras. As a result, users can scale both images simultaneously, enabling us to compare details side by side during critical missions.

AI Spot Check in DJI Zenmuse H20T

The H20T has an AI Spot Check feature, which enables us to automate periodic inspections and capture results consistently. The onboard AI detects the pre-marked subject, even in the subsequent automated missions. If you wish to re-inspect a specific area, the camera automatically frames the shot based on the previously marked subject, making H20T more ideal for inspection missions than the H20N.

Similarities of DJI Zenmuse H20N and H20T

There are certain standard smart features similar to both H20N and H20T.

For instance, the High-Res Grid Photo feature; this feature enables you to frame an area of interest in the wide camera view, and the zoom camera will auto-capture a set of 20MP high-quality images of the framed target area. Further, these images are stitched together into a single image with greater detail.

PinPoint is another brilliant feature common to both – a quick tap marks an object in view and delivers its GPS coordinates to ground teams and other operators. The data also includes the distance from the drone and the relative height of the object.

Likewise, with the Smart Track, users can detect and track moving objects, as it automatically frames shots based on the pre-marked subject while simultaneously syncing the dynamic location of the subject. And it also includes an auto-zoom function while constantly tracking your moving target.

Both DJI Zenmuse H20T and H20N are IP44 rated and can be seamlessly integrated with the IP45-rated M300 RTK. H2ON and H20T endurance with M300 RTK is 43 minutes and 42 minutes, respectively. Likewise, they can also operate in harsh temperatures ranging from -20°C to 50°C.

Let’s Summarise

Still wondering, “What’s the best?” Well, I would like you to kindly rephrase the question – “What’s the mission?” as it’s all about your specific mission – whether it’s a Night Mission or a Daytime Inspection.

The starlight sensors, coupled with the dual thermal capabilities, make the H20N the standout sensor for low-light/night missions. On the other hand, H20T is best for daytime inspection missions because of its higher quality visual sensors (zoom and wide). So, the ideal payload will always depend on the mission at hand.

How are you finding them? If you think H20N or H20T is your payload, feel free to get in touch with us. Or, we can arrange a demo for you on how these payloads can improve your operations.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get updates and learn from drone professionals

More To Explore