What are the best drones for fun and photography?

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6

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Considered

65

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Aug 14, 2018

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Updated

Here’s the Deal

6 Options Considered

Best drones for fun and photography	Price	Weight	Max Flight Time
81 Yuneec Breeze	$399.99	386 g	12 min
-- DJI Mavic Pro	$999	743 g	27 min
66 Halo Drone	$997	1370 g (3 lbs)	22 minutes
-- GoPro Karma	$799.99	2.2 lbs	20 minutes
-- Yuneec Typhoon 4K	$699.99	1700 g	25 minutes

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score 17 · Answer 1

Yuneec Breeze

Top Pro

Decent camera quality, better than most budget drones

Overall, the Breeze's camera offers better image quality and color reproduction than most budget drones. It can shoot in 4K at 30 fps, but it can also shoot in lower resolutions, up to 120 fps. Photos are shot in 13 megapixels, and have roughly the image quality of a picture taken with a medium-range smartphone. The field of view is wide, covering 117 degrees and it is possible to swivel the camera up or down for great landscape shots. You can also view a live feed of what the drone is capturing. See More

Top Con

If users want a physical controller, they need to buy it separately

While the mobile app is easy to use, some may find it a bit frustrating and would prefer a physical controller, which is only available if bought separately. See More

Specs

Weight:386 g

Max Flight Time:12 min

Max Speed:18 km/h

Mobile App:Breeze Cam app

See All Specs

Top Pro

4 easy to use and convenient automatic flying modes

Yuneec has equipped the drone with 4 different auto modes: "selfie" mode makes it hover from a specified distance and await a command to take a photo or video; "orbit" makes the drone orbit around the controller; "journey" mode makes the drone to follow a previously set path; and "follow me" mode tells the drone to follow you using the GPS or the camera. See More

Top Con

Memory can't be expanded

You can’t expand this drone's memory, as there is no memory card slot. It has a built-in 14 GB memory that can store about 40 minutes of 4K video. See More

Top Pro

Solid and well built

Despite having a plasticky cheap look and feel, it is actually very well built and can withstand minor crashes without any problems. See More

Top Con

Can't control the camera's focus settings

You cannot control the camera’s focus settings, even though you can adjust other settings, like white balance and shutter speed. See More

Top Pro

For easier control, first-person view goggles and controller mount are available

For a small price, you can get first-person view goggles and a controller to put your phone in. The controller is easier to use than the in-built controls on the mobile app. See More

Top Con

Rather disappointing battery life

This drone’s flight time, due to the small battery size, is not great: it can only stay in the air for about 12 minutes (if there are no strong winds), before it force-lands. On the plus side, it ships with two batteries, so you can quickly swap them. It takes about 40 minutes to charge a battery. See More

Top Pro

Guards minimize the risk of injuries of damage to the propellers

Beginners can fly the drone indoors with great confidence, since the risk of injury or broken propellers is low, due to propeller guards. See More

Top Con

Almost no hardware upgrades available

The Breeze is basic and, excluding the prop guards, there are no options for any sort of upgrades on the drone. See More

Top Pro

Automated takeoff and landing

The drone can take off and land automatically with just a press of a button on the controlling app. It uses GPS to remember the place where it took off from, so you can tell it to land in the same place. Even if connection to the mobile device is lost, the drone can still use those coordinates to safely land. See More

Top Con

Flight range is insufficient for advanced users

By default, the drone can fly up to a maximum height of 30 feet and a maximum distance of 300 feet from you. While this is enough for most casual uses, professionals and film-makers will definitely be left wanting more. See More

Top Pro

Easy to share your captures

The app you use to control the drone can also be used to share your moments on social media. Once you have captured a video or photo, you can simply select the social network profile that you want to upload to and you’re done. No PC or video editing software necessary. See More

Top Con

Can’t automatically avoid obstacles

There are no additional sensors that monitor the surroundings around the drone, so you need to be careful while operating it not to crash it against anything. This is true even when the drone is set to any of the automated modes: it can crash while following or orbiting you. See More

Top Pro

Easy to control on a smartphone or tablet

This drone is easily and conveniently operated via an app on an iOS or Android device (no need for a physical controller). It is very easy to use it, as the controls are very basic. You need to keep in mind that on small devices, the controls will obstruct the video on the screen. See More

Top Con

Unable to keep up with fast moving objects

This drone's top speeds are enough for following a walking/running person, but insufficient to keep up with anything that moves faster. In fact, this drone tops at around 11 mph, with an ascent rate of 1 m/s. See More

Top Pro

Easy to carry around

Thanks to its foldable propellers, low weight, compact design and clever camera integration, the Yuneec Breeze is very portable and you can take it anywhere with little effort. See More

Top Con

Videos may look shaky

Unfortunately, there’s no gimbal stabilization, so the videos may look shaky, due to strong winds or sudden maneuvers. It does make up for it with electronic image stabilization, but this doesn’t work when shooting in native 4K. See More

Top Pro

Batteries are cheap and easy to charge

Extra batteries for this drone are rather cheap and only take 40 minutes to charge. This is an important point, given that a Con of this is drone is it's short battery life (only 12 minutes). See More

See All

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score 9 · Answer 2

DJI Mavic Pro

Top Pro

Easy to fly

Just unfold the drone, set its mode (“fly only” or “camera”), and use the remote to operate it. No need to set up the drone blades, as they reposition themselves once the motors are activated and takeoff can be done automatically. It even senses objects that are close, in order to crashing into them. If its battery level gets critically low or its loses signal to the remote, it automatically sets course back to where it took off and land there. See More

Top Con

Tends to lose tracked objects in certain circumstances

While in most circumstances the drone can track and follow objects quite well, it does struggle if the target's color blends with the background or if it makes sudden turns. See More

Specs

Weight:743 g

Max Flight Time:27 min

Max Speed:65 km/h

Mobile App:DJI GO 4

See All Specs

Top Pro

Stays stable even under strong winds

Thanks to all its sensors, design and powerful motors, this is one of the most stable small drones in the market. It stays almost perfectly still even under strong breezes. See More

Top Con

Signal may be lost in areas with many Wi-Fi devices

This drone may lose the remote's signal if flying over a dense neighborhood with lots of Wi-Fi devices. See More

Top Pro

Fast

The drone can reach speeds up to 65 km/h and it can also change altitude rather quickly. See More

Top Con

Performs poorly in low light scenarios

Because of the small sensor size and the relatively limited ISO range, this drone's camera struggles heavily in low light conditions. See More

Top Pro

High quality shots

Despite its small size, the Mavic Pro’s camera has practically the same specifications as more expensive and larger drone cameras. With it, you can take breathtaking shots without being worried about quality. It even has a 3-axis gimbal to keep the camera stable while the drone is flying, a feature not usually found on compact drones. See More

Top Con

Video may be jerky due to fragile gimbal assembly

The gimbal is held together with three rubber bands that tend to snap, making the video jerky. See More

Top Pro

Wide range of accessories of DJI accessories available

You can buy external batteries, bags, propeller guards, filters, even a battery-to-power-bank adapter. Many of its accessories are much cheaper than other drone's accessories. See More

Top Pro

Easy to carry around

Travelers will be especially happy about the drone’s slim body and easily foldable arms. When folded, the drone is about the size of a brick and can be transported with ease, making it an extremely compact 4K-capable drone. Unlike some other larger drones, the Mavic Pro’s camera is situated up the front of the drone, further reducing its size. Its remote is also travel-friendly, given that it’s also very compact. See More

Top Pro

Flying consumes less battery than hovering

The Mavic Pro drone has been designed in a way that it will operate longer when it is moving around and not hovering in the same place. The difference is small, though: a full battery should last for around 24 minutes on hovering and for around 27 minutes on flying. These times are excellent for a small drone. See More

Top Pro

No need to remove parts

You don’t need to assemble or dissemble parts each time you are setting the drone up or have finished flying. Everything folds and unfolds neatly. See More

Top Pro

Beginner mode available, for easy learning

If you are new to drones, the Mavic Pro’s beginner mode will help you learn how to fly it, while minimizing risks. It limits the distance and speed the drone can fly, and also reduces the sensitivity of the controller. See More

Top Pro

Can be used indoors and in tight spaces

The Mavic Pro can be set to tripod mode and used to film indoors or in other tight settings, where precision is needed. Once the drone is set to tripod mode, its speed is limited to approximately 2 mph and control input sensitivity is reduced, increasing the accuracy of commands sent to the drone. See More

Top Pro

Convenient special bundle for travelers

You can buy this drone as a “Fly More Combo” that includes additional batteries, extra props, a backpack and other accessories that make traveling with the drone easier. This is much more economical than buying the items separately. See More

Top Pro

Control drones from long distances

This drone has an impressive maximum range of 7 km, which is very impressive. This drops significantly in urban areas, where interferences are higher, but even in these conditions it still reaches a 1 km range. However, users should be aware that some countries may have laws prohibiting people from operating the drone at such distances. See More

Top Pro

Has advanced algorithms for autonomous flying

This drone’s software includes some clever autonomous flying algorithms that can be easily configured and activated via the smartphone companion app. You can predefine flying paths, set the drone to follow an object, or fly at a certain constant distance from the ground, following topographic changes. This means that you don’t have to worry about controlling the drone while you’re hands are occupied on something else, such as climbing a hill. See More

Top Pro

Frequent software updates

DJI constantly updates its drone's firmware and companion apps, adding new functionalities and improving existing ones. See More

Top Pro

Responds to remote's commands quickly

The control’s input lag is almost non-existent and offers very precise control with no random movements. See More

Top Pro

Gestures can be used to take shots

This drone's camera can be activated via physical gestures, which can be especially useful for taking selfies: this way, you don't have to use the remote and worry about it showing up on the shots. See More

Top Pro

Easily adjustable focus

You can adjust the focus of the camera by tapping on the object on the live view screen. See More

See All

score 24 · Answer 3

Halo Drone

Top Pro

Very fast

Halo Drone Pro can reach speeds up to 45mph. See More

Top Con

Camera settings can't be changed from the app or remote

The camera capture settings can only be set before flying since the app and remote do not have support for changing them. See More

Geohippo1's Experience

HALO DRONE PRO "Best Drone I have flown" First, I have six high end drones, and enjoyed flying them all. The action word is enjoyed, and after receiving the HALO DRONE PRO, the others will be taking a rest. The second I opened the hard shell backpack case, I was amazed at my first impression. At this point I said, ok let’s see if it’s as nice out of the case. Well, even better…… this drone is built better than any high end drone I have. When you open the HALO up, and spread it out in preparation to fly, everything is built professionally, and well throughout. Heck, even my wife that puts up with my Drone hobby said wow this is different than the others All the included items, are top quality and only took a short time before I said ok, time to put this in the air. After charging all, reading through the short but more than enough instructions, I placed it on the ground, and hit the two buttons, one for GPS, and the other to auto take off. The Halo DRONE PRO started up, and lifted very smooth, level and solid….. It sat at an elevation waiting for me to take over and fly, and fly I did. All I can say, is smooth, high-quality video. The App and controller linked up is seconds, no need to play with that, the WIFI and Bluetooth connections were seamless, unlike may drones I have flown. I have never provided a Drone review, however after flying the HALO DRONE PRO, I had to share my experience. I am not in the Drone business, I am not an RC on all the blog type guy, I just enjoy the hobby and this drone has put my enjoyment of the hobby at a new level. If you want a drone that is amazing, this is that drone………………. See More

Specs

Weight:1370 g (3 lbs)

Max Flight Time:22 minutes

Max Speed:45 mph

Folded Dimensions:14.125" x 7.5" x 5.5" (L x W x H)

See All Specs

Top Pro

Modern contemporary design

The Halo Drone has a very futuristic and modern design that looks like something out of a movie. See More

Claybay's Experience

Compact folding arms See More

Top Pro

Easy to fly

Very easy and fun to fly even if you are not using it for photography. See More

Top Pro

Extremely portable

The Halo Drone is very portable and can easily be taken anywhere with you. It weighs around 1.3kg and has a diagonal length of 430mm. What's more, is that all four arms are foldable which greatly decreases the size and lets you put it in a normal backpack easily. The foldable design also protects the delicate parts of the drone and keeps them from getting damaged when carrying the drone around. See More

Top Pro

Follows the user at whatever distance

The Halo Drone follows you at whatever distance you choose and take greats shots while doing so. This feature also has different follow settings to choose from. See More

Top Pro

Removable camera

The camera can be removed. See More

Top Pro

Great stabilization

Has a quality 3 axis gimbal that keeps the camera steady and with no vibrations. See More

Top Pro

Great video and photo capturing capabilities

The Halo Drone comes equipped with a great 4K camera capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos. It comes with a lens that has a 115 degrees FOV and that can take smooth videos and pictures with little to no shakiness. It can record videos at different resolutions and framerates. However, the max. framerate depends on the resolution the video is being captured in: 4K up to 30FPS UHD up to 60FPS FHD up to 60FPS HD up to 120FPS See More

Top Pro

Top of the line Sony IMX377 camera sensor

The detachable camera is built with a Sony IMX377 Sensor. See More

Top Pro

Easy to set up, get ready and fly

Top Pro

Excellent sensor

Built with a Sony IMX377 sensor. See More

Top Pro

Very stable

Overall, the Halo is a very strong and stable drone that does not lose control under strong winds. See More

Top Pro

Camera can be used without the drone

This drone's camera can be removed and used as a standalone camera. See More

See All

score 7 · Answer 4

GoPro Karma

Top Pro

Great value package

When you buy the drone, you also get a handheld gimbal system with control buttons. The stabilizing gimbal is useful as it can be mounted on other GoPro compatible accessories. The package also includes additional propellers and a backpack with a built-in shoulder mount where you can attach your camera. See More

Top Con

Controller's screen is hard to see under direct sunlight

The controller's screen is glossy, making it hard to use under direct sunlight. See More

Specs

Weight:2.2 lbs

Max Flight Time:20 minutes

Flight Radius:Up to 9,840 ft (3,000 m)

Flight Altitude:10,500 ft (3,200 m)

See All Specs

Top Pro

Simple to use controller

This drone's controller only has a few intuitively placed buttons, which are easy to learn. There’s no need to attach a smartphone, since the controller comes with a built-in touchscreen. The information layout on the screen is simple and won’t overwhelm you. See More

Top Con

Over-reliance on GPS may lead to random drifting

The Karma doesn’t have any obstacle avoidance or downward sensors, relying solely on its GPS signal. This means it may drift randomly in the air if the GPS signal isn’t strong enough. At worst, it may cause collisions with objects in its path. Fortunately, the controller can somehow compensate this effect. See More

Top Pro

Helps beginners to learn how to fly it with a virtual learning mode

The Karma has a virtual learning mode for beginners, allowing them to fly this drone virtually, with the remote, while learning the basics. See More

Top Con

Limitations when filming in 4K

Filming in 4K gives a “fish eye” effect which can be removed later, but it also reduces the maximum resolution down to 2.7K. See More

Top Con

No automatic tracking mode

As of July 2017, there is no tracking mode where the drone can follow an object around. This feature would have been useful when you want the drone to follow a subject doing outdoor sports or driving a vehicle. GoPro has promised to add this in a future update. See More

Top Con

Lack of an obstacle avoidance system may cause crashes

If the drone loses connection with the remote and takes a straight course home, it can crash somewhere, since it lacks an obstacle avoidance system. See More

See All

score 3 · Answer 5

Yuneec Typhoon 4K

Top Con

Android only

The operating system for this drone is Android, so streaming won't work to iOS devices. See More

Top Pro

Streams to other devices

Can stream to other devices, if you want to share or use something larger than the provided screen. See More

Specs

Weight:1700 g

Max Flight Time:25 minutes

Flight Radius:400 m (1312 ft)

Dimensions:420 x 420 x 210 mm

See All Specs

Top Con

Requires calibration

Before flying it, you need to calibrate the onboard compass, which requires a real compass. See More

Top Pro

Smart features

Has a "return home" feature, as well as the ability to watch and follow objects. See More

Top Con

A tool is required to fasten and unfasten the propellers

The propellers come on and off, and a tool is required to make that happen. See More

Top Pro

Controller has onboard screen

No smartphone or tablet is required to use this drone. See More

Top Pro

Removable gimbal

The gimbal of the Typhoon 4K can be removed and attached to a handle, for use on the ground. See More

See All

score 2 · Answer 6

DJI Mavic Air

Top Pro

Extremely portable

The Air has several features that make it easy to carry around. It folds into a very compact size ( 83 × 49 x 168 mm ) and can be conveniently carried inside an included case. During transportation, the gimbal is covered with a protective plastic part. The remote control is also small enough to be handy to carry in a backpack, without its sticks getting in the way, since they can be unscrewed and stored inside the remote. See More

Specs

Video:4K 30fps

Flight Time:20+ min

Photos:12MP

Top Pro

No image issues due to low stability

The Mavic Air's camera is attached to a 3-axis gimbal that ensures high stability when filming/photographing. This means that the pilot doesn't need to worry too much about being careful while maneuvering or ensuring a smooth flight route to attain good results. See More

Top Pro

Very fast

This drone is capable of a maximum speed of 68.4 kph, which is faster than the Mavic Pro or Mavic Pro Platinum. See More

See All

What are the best drones for fun and photography?

6 Options Considered

Yuneec Breeze

My Recommendation for Yuneec Breeze

My Recommendation for Yuneec Breeze

Decent camera quality, better than most budget drones

If users want a physical controller, they need to buy it separately

4 easy to use and convenient automatic flying modes

Memory can't be expanded

Solid and well built

Can't control the camera's focus settings

For easier control, first-person view goggles and controller mount are available

Rather disappointing battery life

Guards minimize the risk of injuries of damage to the propellers

Almost no hardware upgrades available

Automated takeoff and landing

Flight range is insufficient for advanced users

Easy to share your captures

Can’t automatically avoid obstacles

Easy to control on a smartphone or tablet

Unable to keep up with fast moving objects

Easy to carry around

Videos may look shaky

Batteries are cheap and easy to charge

DJI Mavic Pro

My Recommendation for DJI Mavic Pro

My Recommendation for DJI Mavic Pro

Easy to fly

Tends to lose tracked objects in certain circumstances

Stays stable even under strong winds

Signal may be lost in areas with many Wi-Fi devices

Fast

Performs poorly in low light scenarios

High quality shots

Video may be jerky due to fragile gimbal assembly

Wide range of accessories of DJI accessories available

Easy to carry around

Flying consumes less battery than hovering

No need to remove parts

Beginner mode available, for easy learning

Can be used indoors and in tight spaces

Convenient special bundle for travelers

Control drones from long distances

Has advanced algorithms for autonomous flying

Frequent software updates

Responds to remote's commands quickly

Gestures can be used to take shots

Easily adjustable focus

Halo Drone

My Recommendation for Halo Drone

My Recommendation for Halo Drone

Very fast

Camera settings can't be changed from the app or remote

Modern contemporary design

Easy to fly

Extremely portable

Follows the user at whatever distance

Removable camera

Great stabilization

Great video and photo capturing capabilities

Top of the line Sony IMX377 camera sensor

Easy to set up, get ready and fly

Excellent sensor

Very stable

Camera can be used without the drone

GoPro Karma

My Recommendation for GoPro Karma

My Recommendation for GoPro Karma

Great value package

Controller's screen is hard to see under direct sunlight

Simple to use controller

Over-reliance on GPS may lead to random drifting

Helps beginners to learn how to fly it with a virtual learning mode

Limitations when filming in 4K

No automatic tracking mode

Lack of an obstacle avoidance system may cause crashes

Yuneec Typhoon 4K

My Recommendation for Yuneec Typhoon 4K

My Recommendation for Yuneec Typhoon 4K

Android only