Overview

The DJI Zenmuse H20 Series is a family of multi-sensor enterprise payloads designed for public safety, inspection, surveying, and situational awareness missions. The range includes two models:

Zenmuse H20 – Triple-sensor payload (Zoom camera, Wide camera, Laser Rangefinder)
Zenmuse H20T – Quad-sensor payload (Zoom camera, Wide camera, Radiometric thermal camera, Laser Rangefinder)

They are commonly used by police, fire and rescue, utilities, infrastructure teams, and industrial inspection operators who need to switch between multiple views instantly while flying.

Compatibility

The Zenmuse H20 Series is compatible with:

DJI Matrice 300 RTK
DJI Matrice 350 RTK

They are not compatible with M30 Series, Matrice 400, or smaller enterprise platforms.

Mounting is via DJI’s standard gimbal connector on the Matrice 300/350.

Core System Specifications

Payload type: Multi-sensor gimbal (EO + LRF, plus thermal on H20T)
Weight: approx. 828 g
Ingress protection: IP44 (when mounted on M300/M350 system)
Operating temperature: -20 °C to +50 °C
Stabilisation: 3-axis mechanical gimbal
Control app: DJI Pilot 2

Sensor Breakdown

Zoom Camera (H20 & H20T)

Sensor: 1/1.7” CMOS
Resolution: 20 MP
Optical zoom: up to 23×
Hybrid zoom: up to 200× (digital + optical combined)
Designed for long-range visual identification, search tasks, and detailed inspection.

Wide Camera (H20 & H20T)

Sensor: 1/2.3” CMOS
Resolution: 12 MP
Provides situational awareness and scene context alongside the zoom camera.

Thermal Camera (H20T only)

The H20T includes a radiometric thermal sensor, allowing users to measure temperatures within the image.

Resolution: 640 × 512
Pixel pitch: 12 μm
Frame rate: 30 Hz
Temperature measurement: Supported (radiometric)
Commonly used for:
- Search and rescue
- Firefighting
- Electrical inspections
- Heat loss surveys
- Industrial fault finding

Laser Rangefinder (H20 & H20T)

Both models include an integrated LRF.

Measurement range: up to 1,200 m
Provides real-time distance and coordinate data to assist with:
- Target localisation
- Mapping reference
- Operational decision-making
- Scene measurement

Smart Features (DJI Pilot 2)

The H20 Series supports a range of intelligent functions that customers often rely on:

PinPoint – Mark a target on screen to obtain its coordinates
Smart Track – Automatically track moving subjects
High-Res Grid Photo – Capture detailed images of large structures
Night Scene mode – Improves low-light visibility on the zoom camera
Thermal analysis tools (H20T) – Isotherms, spot measurement, area measurement, colour palettes

These features are frequently used by emergency services and inspection teams.

Image and Video Capabilities

Photo formats

JPEG
R-JPEG (radiometric JPEG on H20T for thermal analysis)

Video formats

MP4 (H.264 / H.265 depending on settings)

Thermal imagery from the H20T can be analysed in DJI Thermal Analysis Tool or compatible third-party software.

Use Case Examples

Zenmuse H20 / H20T is commonly deployed for:

Police operations and overwatch
Fire and rescue incident management
Missing person searches
Electrical infrastructure inspection
Solar farm inspection
Building and roof inspections
Situational awareness during major incidents
Perimeter monitoring

The H20T is generally preferred when thermal data is required.

Operational Notes

Thermal accuracy is influenced by distance, emissivity settings, humidity, and atmospheric conditions.
Digital zoom beyond optical levels will reduce usable detail.
For best thermal results, users should allow the sensor to warm up before critical measurements.
Firmware for aircraft, controller, and payload should always be kept aligned to avoid compatibility issues.

Top 10 FAQs

What is the difference between Zenmuse H20 and H20T?
The H20T includes a radiometric thermal camera. The H20 does not have thermal capability.
Which drones are compatible with the H20 series?
Only the Matrice 300 RTK and Matrice 350 RTK.
Can I measure temperatures with the H20T?
Yes. The H20T supports radiometric temperature measurement within thermal images.
Does the H20 support thermal imaging?
No. Only the H20T model includes a thermal sensor.
How far can the laser rangefinder measure?
Up to approximately 1,200 metres under suitable conditions.
Is the 200× zoom optical?
No. The camera provides up to 23× optical zoom, with hybrid zoom up to 200× using digital enhancement.
Can I use H20T data in third-party thermal software?
Yes. Radiometric data can be analysed using DJI Thermal Analysis Tool and some compatible external platforms.
Is the H20T suitable for search and rescue?
Yes. It is widely used for SAR due to its thermal camera, zoom camera, and smart tracking features.
Why do my thermal readings seem inaccurate?
Thermal accuracy depends on emissivity settings, distance, atmospheric conditions, and calibration. Incorrect settings commonly cause misleading readings.
Do I need to calibrate the thermal sensor?
The system auto-calibrates, but users should allow the sensor to stabilise (warm up) before relying on critical measurements.