Drones can be super cool, entertaining tech products, but keep in mind they're not meant to be toys. If you're a novice, opt for a more affordable drone that will help you hone your skills, while pricier drones should be reserved for experienced photographers. Shop options for every skill level and at every price point, below.
Note: Drone laws vary across the U.S. so be sure to look into your local regulations and register your aircraft with the Federal Aviation Administration. Find out all about the process here.
Parrot BeBop Drone 2
$550, bhphotovideo.com
The recently launched Parrot BeBop Drone 2 has a 14MP camera with 3-axis image stabilization and a 180-degree fisheye lens, capable of capturing 1080p video at 30fps. Its battery allows it spend up to 25 minutes in the air with horizontal speeds of up to 52 ft/s. GPS-enabled autopilot, smartphone controls, and a 984-foot Wi-Fi range are also among the key features.
HUBSAN X4 H107C Quadcopter
from $40, bhphotovideo.com
The X4 H107C by HUBSAN is a great starter drone that fits in the palm of a user's hand. It can fly for up to 7 minutes on a single charge and capture video footage with a resolution of 720 by 240 pixels. The gadget has normal and expert flying modes, can perform acrobatic flips and barrel rolls, and comes with an intuitive controller.
BLADE Nano QX FPV BNF Quadcopter
from $135, bhphotovideo.com
The BLADE Nano QX FPV BNF is a keenly priced camera drone that's only 5.5 inches long, and is capable of capturing 720p video footage at 30 fps. It has various flying modes, built-in prop guards, and an intelligent control system. The device has replacement rotor blades in its retail package.
YUNEEC Q500 4K Quadcopter
$899, amazon.com
One of YUNEEC's high-end offerings, this Q500 variant can capture crisp 4K video as well as 12MP still images. The camera is stabilized on three-axis gimbal, so it will capture quality footage even when things get shaky. The Q500 4K can fly for up to 25 minutes and comes with a touchscreen-equipped controller. A key safety feature of the drone includes a built-in database of FAA no-fly areas.
UDI RC UDU818A Discovery Quadcopter
from $77, bhphotovideo.com
A solid sub-$100 option, the UDI RC UDU818A can capture 720p video in the air for up to 8 minutes at a time. Other key features of the drone include one-button aerial flips, up to 131 feet of range, and convenient remote control with built-in low-battery warning.
DJI Phantom 3
The DJI Phantom 3 is widely considered to be one of the best camera drones on the market today. It is available in variants equipped with a 2.7K camera, or a 4K unit (priced at $800), and can spend up to 25 minutes in the air. Users can control the device's camera via a smartphone app. A plethora of flying modes and a massive Wi-Fi range make the Phantom 3 a great option for experienced users.
Estes Proto-X FPV Quadcopter
This tiny fella by Estes can capture 720p video and perform flips in the air. Its controller features a handy display for viewing a live feed from the drone. The gadget has beginner and expert modes, a 650 mAh battery, and spare rotor blades in its retail box. Another great starter camera drone.
3DR Solo Quadcopter
$1,193, bhphotovideo.com
This quadcopter by 3DR Solo features a mount for GoPro cameras (not included in the price) with three-axis gimbal. When connected to your smartphone, the drone can track users and allow them to control the GoPro camera. The 3DR Solo is quite a performer too — it can fly at speeds of up to 55 mph at a maximum altitude of 400 feet. Its massive battery allows it to spend up to 25 minutes in the air. Not suitable for beginners.
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