Big Copter vs Small - Which is more effective

[PCMAerial]

Hey guys,

I use my rig pretty often. Daily if weather is good on the coast, but atleast every week. In doing so I upgraded to the U3 motors which have waterproof/dustproof casing. Love the motors but they want SO much weight, even with parallel batteries. The rated capacity for a quad is 4kg. I'm closer to 2.5 max. I would love to add more weight. But the dilemma is should I completely switch up the camera/gimbal to have a heavier build, or just keep adding weight with the GoPro/Zenmuse I already have. Why have a heavy lift copter with only a GoPro is what I keep thinking. I don't mind sticking to gopro but could go either way

-Need something to use daily, calls for use often
-Currently on GoPro/Zenmuse and the combo is SMOOTH
-Could use Nex/Gimbal but $$$
-Portability a Plus

What would you do? Do you see a heavy lifter or a medium size gopro rig as more effective for everyday use?

Something daily. 2-3 flights a day, shooting 60% video, 40% photo. Needs to be high quality (GoPro to SLR) No crazy EPIC rigs needed (yet). I've had a F450, 550, s800, Phantom 2. So those options have been experienced all with GoPro. Not bad at all, but as you can see I no longer have them...

Just curious what some would do in this situation

-Thx for reading!

 

[JoeBob]

What are you flying now?

I'm very pleased with my DiscoPro. (To the point of building a second one as backup.) I especially appreciate that the gimbal is integrated into the frame, which makes the whole rig easy to transport.

 

[PCMAerial]

What are you flying now?

I'm very pleased with my DiscoPro. (To the point of building a second one as backup.) I especially appreciate that the gimbal is integrated into the frame, which makes the whole rig easy to transport.

Right now I have a custom quad. It's 800mm with carbon fiber booms, G10 center plate, 30a SimonK, and Tmotor U3 power series. After dealing with a Phantom, 550, and the like it feels like a BIG *** quad. I'm kind of torn between loving the power, but also frustrations with the size and huge lifting capacity. I shoot AP with GoPro most of the time (budget calls for it). I would love to switch camera/gimbal but then $$$ is an option. I couldn't fathom a $2500 zenmuse on a $1500 uav. Which is why a GoPro is more versatile 90% for me.

The discoPro has always been a sick looking rig in my opinion. The only thing that kept me away was the gimbal position & options. I REALLY like the footage my Zenmuse gives me. I've done the whole AlexMos and DIY gimbals, they DO work. But man I love the Zenmuse and how easy to use.
Thanks for the insight! Looking up some different Disco builds now. I'm flexible here.