In the world of FPV flying, reliable signal performance and minimal latency are critical for a seamless experience. Today, I’m reviewing the BDI Patch G2 Antenna, designed specifically for the DJI Goggles 2. With promises of enhanced range, better penetration, and an innovative foldable design, it aims to be a premium upgrade over the stock antennas. 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 from:
What’s in the Box?
- 2x LHCP Patch G2 Antennas
- 1x 1.5mm hex wrench (for friction adjustment)
Specifications
Specifications
- Gain: 8.25-9.0 dBic
- Polarization: LHCP
- Axial Ratio: < 1.5
- Impedance: 50 Ω
- Horizontal Beamwidth: 134° (72° at -3dB)
- Vertical Beamwidth: 108° (60° at -3dB)
- Bandwidth: 5.2 GHz – 6.8 GHz
- Peak Efficiency: > 99%
- Weight: 42g (antenna pair)
Key Advantages of the BDI Patch Antenna
Improved Range and Penetration
The BDI Patch G2 features 8.25-9.0 dBi high-gain circularly polarized antennas. Compared to DJI’s low gain stock antennas, these provide:
- Better range and penetration.
- More stable bitrate at greater distances or behind obstacles.
Plug & Play Design
Installing the BDI Patch Antenna is straightforward:
- Remove the stock antennas.
- Insert the BDI Patch. No tools or screws are needed for installation, making it quick and easy to set up.
Foldable and Adjustable
A standout feature is the foldable PTFE ball-and-socket mechanism that allows for:
- Easy storage without frequent removal, reducing wear on the MCX connectors.
- Adjustable antenna angles for optimal signal reception.
- Friction adjustment using the included hex wrench, ensuring the antennas stay in place during use.
Luxe Goggle Bag
The product page is featured in the antenna product page, however I am not sure if this is included or you have to buy it separately. This is the Luxe Goggle Bag Mini for DJI Goggles 2, features a ultra soft interior to protect your goggles from scratches, adding an extra layer of convenience for transportation.
Drawbacks
Narrower Reception Angle
High-gain antennas like the BDI Patch typically have a narrower beamwidth, which means reduced signal strength when your drone is off to the side. To maximize performance, ensure the antennas are aimed directly at the drone. This means the pilot has to be aware where the drone is and turn the head facing the drone whenever necessary.
Circular Polarization
The BDI Patch G2 antennas are LHCP (Left Hand Circular Polarization). If paired with the stock linear polarized DJI O3 antenna on the drone, you could experience up to 3dB signal loss. For the best performance, use an LHCP antenna on the drone as well.
Price
At $80, the BDI Patch G2 is one of the most expensive DJI Goggles 2 antenna upgrades on the market.
Testing the BDI Patch G2 Antenna
For this test, I tested signal penetration using the DJI Goggles 2 paired with the O3 Air Unit by flying behind 170 meters of dense foliage. I compared the video bitrate of the BDI Patch antennas against the DJI stock antennas to determine which provided better range and penetration. Additionally, I assessed their effective reception angle by flying to the side.
Result
The BDI Patch Antenna demonstrated superior performance in both bitrate and consistency. Video bitrate was overall higher and more stable, with less stuttering. In contrast, the stock antennas experienced random spikes in latency, I was getting the yellow warnings for low bitrate at the same test location. This clearly indicates that the BDI Patch Antenna offers higher gain, better penetration, and greater range than the stock antennas. When flying directly in front of myself, I recorded approximately 30-40 Mbps with the BDI patch, and 20-30 Mbps with the stock antennas.
However, as mentioned, the trade-off with higher gain antennas is their narrower beamwidth, which results in weaker signal reception when flying to the sides. This was evident in my testing. Flying to the side (slightly more than 90 degrees), I measured around 40 Mbps with the stock antenna compared to 30 Mbps with the BDI Patch.
Although I didn’t test the FlyFish Flip G2 on this occasion, my previous tests showed it also provides higher gain than the stock antennas. Based on its specifications, its gain and beamwidth fall between those of the stock antennas and the BDI Patch Antenna. If your primary focus is penetration, the BDI Patch is the better choice.
The TrueRC X-Air has specs comparable to the BDI Patch, with even slightly higher gain. However, the X-Air lacks a foldable design, making it less convenient for transportation and an even narrow beamwidth which means you have to be more accurate at which direction you are pointing when flying. While you can unplug the X-Air for storage, antenna connectors have a limited mating cycle, so frequent unplugging is best avoided.
Final Thoughts: Is the BDI Patch Antenna Worth It?
For most pilots flying over open field, DJI’s stock antennas are sufficient. However, if you’re looking to significantly improve range and penetration for the DJI Goggles 2, the BDI Patch G2 Antenna is an great upgrade. Its foldable design and adjustable positioning make it both functional and convenient. While the BDI Patch G2 Antenna delivers noticeably better performance, its price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious pilots.
Remember, to unlock the full potential of the BDI Patch, pair it with an LHCP antenna on the drone, as the stock O3 antenna is linear polarized.
