Pavo20 Pro vs Pavo20 Pro II — What’s Actually Better This Time?

The BETAFPV Pavo20 series has always aimed to be a lightweight, dependable, “grab-and-go” cinewhoop for everyday flying. With the new Pavo20 Pro II now available, many pilots are asking the same question: Should you upgrade, or is the original Pavo20 Pro still good enough?

To answer that properly, we compared both versions across build quality, flight behavior, camera mount design, durability, and real-world user opinions. This review also includes recommended 3S battery setups that work perfectly on both generations, along with a link to the dedicated collection here: Pavo20 Pro / Pro II Battery Collection.

Frame, Duct, and Lighting — The Biggest Visual Upgrade

One of the most obvious changes in the Pavo20 Pro II is the new duct design with integrated RGB lighting. Pilots describe it as brighter, cleaner, and more programmable than the original. Interestingly, many users pointed out that the original Pavo20 Pro did have a limited-edition RGB version, but the Pro II now makes it a standard feature.

Our FPV pilot noted:

“Got the carbon fiber frame, whoop duct and RGB lights to swap between OG blue & upgraded frame… very excited.”

If you fly at dusk or record cinematic footage outdoors, the Pro II lighting is a noticeable improvement. In snowy or low-temperature environments, the new RGB patterns stand out even more, as several pilots pointed out.

Camera Mount Stability — Subtle But Useful

BETAFPV reshaped the camera mount to reduce vibration, especially when flying in cold wind or low temperatures. One pilot flying in –6°C commented that the frame felt noticeably more stable than expected.

If you shoot cinematic footage and rely on clean gyro data, this upgrade matters. But if your flights are mostly casual, the difference is smaller.

Flight Performance — Nearly Identical, and That’s a Good Thing

Multiple pilots emphasized that the Pavo20 Pro II flies almost the same as the Pro I. That’s not a complaint—just an honest description of a drone that already flew well.

BETAFPV did not change the motor KV or flight controller limits. Both drones remain 2–3S cinewhoops with similar thrust, similar weight, and similar throttle feel.

If you loved the flight performance of the Pavo20 Pro, you will feel instantly comfortable with the Pro II.

DJI O4 Pro Integration — Small Details Matter

Pilots noticed something interesting: Some units shipped with the DJI O4 logo hidden under a black sticker.

Apart from that, the DJI O4 mount and wiring are mostly unchanged. A few people mentioned concerns about antenna fragility—something DJI users have been pointing out across multiple frames.

RGB Nightfire Strip Compatibility — Not Fully Cross-Compatible

Can you use the programmable RGB strip on the Pavo20 Pro I ?

Yes, but the RGB connector on the Pavo Pro 2 is different. So while it’s possible, it’s not a simple plug-and-play swap for the original Pavo20 Pro.

Recommended 3S Batteries for Pavo20 Pro / Pavo20 Pro II

Both generations run best on lightweight 3S lipo XT30 packs.

Here are the best CNHL options:

• MiniStar 450mAh 11.1V 3S 70C (XT30U)
• MiniStar 450mAh 11.4V 3S LiHV 70C (XT30U)
• Pizza Series 600mAh 3S 120C
• MiniStar 650mAh 3S 70C
• MiniStar 850mAh 3S 70C

For all options in one place, visit: Pavo20 Pro Battery Collection Page.

FAQ — Based on Real Community Questions

Can the Pavo20 Pro II use 4S batteries?

No. Both versions are designed for 2–3S. A community user explained: “It's a 2–3S flight controller.”

Can I use DJI FPV Remote 3?

Yes, but only the SBUS version supports it.

Does the RGB blind the camera at night?

Some users reported concerns on the original model. Captain Drone: “I never flew it in the dark with goggles, so can’t say.”

Is the Pro II worth upgrading?

If you value RGB aesthetics, better duct design, and a refreshed frame—yes. If you only care about flight behavior, the original is still excellent.

Final Thoughts — A Small but Polished Upgrade

The BETAFPV Pavo20 Pro II is not a revolution. It’s a refinement. If you love the original, you’ll feel right at home. If you fly in cold conditions, enjoy RGB lighting, or simply want the cleaner frame and camera mount, then the Pro II is a pleasant upgrade.

And for the best battery performance on BOTH generations, this collection has everything ready: Pavo20 Pro Battery Collection.