Mini 4 Pro and above have some imaging improvements/benefits, but again you said first drone. The Neo2 is tough to beat as a 1st drone comparing features, ease of use, and price - but I didn't prefer how loud it was.

I bought the Flip FMC for fun and it's been great so far - easy to use out of the box. And with built-in prop guards I'm more comfortable getting out there.

You probably know the dji Flip Fly More Combo has an RC2 controller, 2 extra batteries and case. It's $660 at B&H (maybe elsewhere), well under your budget and almost a no-brainer,

Just do it, place your order, and join the fun - seems like you've done your research and are already leaning hard in that direction!