8 Best Camera Drones for Adults
We take a look at the best camera drones for adults in this guide. Usually, adult drones have a lot more features and they often cost a little bit more. But they more than compensate for this with their sheer fun factor.
Budget |
---|
LBLA Beginner Camera Quad |
4.7/5.0 |
Flight Time: 8 minutes |
Camera: 720P HD |
Headless mode, altitude hold, 1-key takeoff/landing, 1-key return, 360-degree flips. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
---|
Holy Stone HS700 FPV |
4.8/5.0 |
Flight Time: 20 minutes |
Camera: 1080P FHD |
Easy to fly, long flight time, brushless motors, follow me mode, auto return. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
---|
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom |
4.9/5.0 |
Flight Time: 31 minutes |
Camera: 12MP zoom |
Foldable, 8GB internal storage, long flight time, fast flyer, smart flight functions. |
Check Amazon |
This guide looks at some of the best drones for adults. Be sure to read this short introduction before jumping to the reviews. First off, what is an adult drone—exactly? Well, it’s typically a camera quadcopter, but it could also be any other multirotor drone. It can also be toy-grade or hobby-grade.
Toy-Grade Drones Vs. Hobby-Grade
Toy grade drones are cheap and provide an affordable introduction to flying quads. They’re useful because first-time drone pilots don’t yet know if they’re going to take to the hobby. There are plenty of downsides to toy grade drones too. They’re more fragile for one, and that means they’re more likely to break on impact. They don’t last for long either, and they have all kinds of flying restrictions.
Don’t be too discouraged if you’re a newbie to the drone world. Toy grade flying robots can offer a lot of fun for grownups. They are also an excellent way to learn how to fly quadcopters on a budget.
Hobby grade drones for adults are a natural progression from toy quadcopters. Anyone who gets the bug while flying toy-like drones is sure to want more of everything before too long. That includes better build quality, enhanced flying and filming capability, longer flight times, and extended range.
What to Look for in a Drone
Adults new to drones often make the same mistakes when buying their first quadcopter. That is, they buy it because of the way it looks and the attention-grabbing headline. Unrealistic expectations also cause lots of frustrations. The battery of a drone never lasts long, sometimes less than six minutes. Imagine that, you just get airborne and the fun stops right when you’re having fun.
Needs, Wants, and Expectations
Here’s a quick list of considerations for buying any drone at any level:
- Your maximum budget
- What’s your purpose? Fun flying, aerial photography, racing?
- Do you need a quadcopter that’s safe to fly indoors?
- Battery life, also called flying time
- Drones that have swappable batteries (as opposed to built-in)
- Battery charging times (these can vary a lot)
- What flight modes and other features do you want/need?
It’s always advisable to make a shortlist of what you need, what you want, and what you expect. A little time spent thinking about such things results in a much better drone buying decision. Short flight time isn’t such a big issue if you can swap the batteries. It’s even less of a concern when the spares are affordable and readily available. Some drones also include a bonus battery in the box.
Protection from the Dreaded Flyaway
Every pilot crashes their beloved drone from time to time, especially new pilots. That’s why it’s a good idea to check the crash-resistance of a model before you buy it. The good news is that a lot of vulnerable parts like props and prop guards are easy to replace. The one thing drone enthusiasts worry about more than prangs is the dreaded flyaway. There are ways to prevent flyaways though.
A flyway occurs when radio controlled (RC) drones fly outside their range. That means you no longer have ground control of the craft and so it disappears. Many pilots lose their machines this way. The tip is never to fly further than 80% of the maximum specified range. Some models have out-of-range warning indicators. Others have an auto return-to-home feature, but not usually on cheaper models.
About my ‘Drones for Adults’ Buyer’s Guide
Not everyone wants to fly drones for the same reasons. Likewise, people are at various skill levels and have different budgets. This guide has quadcopters for all adults, from cheap to costly, toy-grade to hobby-grade. Each review is easy to follow, and there isn’t any unnecessary jargon or hard-to-grasp tech talk. With your list to hand (see above), buying a new drone is sure to be much simpler.
The eight picks on this page are the result of personal opinions and the thoughts of industry experts. They are also the result of feedback from real users. The first three products are Best Budget, Best Value, and Top Pick followed by price order—lowest to highest.
The table below shows these favorite drones for adults as they appear on the page.
Cool Camera Drones for Adults Comparison Table
Make and Model | Flight Time | Camera | Price |
---|---|---|---|
LBLA Beginner RC Camera Drone for Learner Pilots | 8 minutes | 720P HD | Check Price |
Holy Stone HS700 FPV 1080p HD Camera Drone | 20 minutes | 1080P FHD | Check Price |
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Quad w/ 24-48mm Camera | 31 minutes | 12MP zoom | Check Price |
Force1 U818A Discovery FPV Quadcopter | 9 minutes | 2MP HD 720P | Check Price |
Force1 F200C Specter MJX B2C Quadcopter Drone | 15 minutes | 1080p FHD | Check Price |
Parrot Bebop 2 Compact FPV Quadcopter | 25 minutes | 14MP 1080P | Check Price |
DJI Spark Mini Drone w/ Fly More Combo | 16 minutes | 12MP 1080P | Check Price |
DJI Phantom 4 PRO Professional Quadcopter Drone | 30 minutes | 20MP 4K | Check Price |
1. LBLA Camera Drone for Beginner Pilots | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
My Best Budget choice targets adult pilots at the beginner level. The LBLA camera drone comes packed with user-friendly flight controls and features that make it a perfect training quadcopter.
- Best feature 1: Three speed levels
- Best feature 2: WIFI 720P HD camera
- Plus points: Headless mode, altitude hold, 1-key takeoff/landing, 1-key return, 360-degree flips
- Minus points: Average camera, short flight time, not good in winds above 10mph
Adults need to learn how to fly drones just like kids. This LBLA RC camera quadcopter is an ideal choice for beginner pilots. The three handy speed modes let you learn in your own time and at your own pace.
Flying the LBLA 720P Camera Quad
There are plenty of novice-friendly features aside from the speed controls. The headless mode makes flying dead simple. It means you don’t need to think about the orientation of the drone to control it. The one-key functions add further to the craft’s simplicity. It has one-key takeoff, landing, and auto return-to-home. The altitude hold is another stress-free feature for adults in training.
Even grownups like a little fun at times, and that’s where the stunt show comes in. Seriously, performing 360 flips and rolls may look impressive to observers, but they’re simple to do. This drone offers plenty for any adult who wants to try their hand at flying and aerial filming.
The Camera Quadcopter
The built-in WIFI 720P HD camera shows you what the world looks like from above. The drone has First Person View (FPV) capability too. All you do is download the free app to your smartphone and use its screen to see what the drone’s camera sees in real time. It’s also easy to take photos or record video directly from your smart device app.
The Not So Good
Some reviewers moan about how mediocre the footage is, and they’re right. The HD camera certainly won’t blow you away. Still, the video and stills quality is perfectly viewable. It’s a little unfair to gripe about the quality considering how much this budget-friendly drone packs in for the price.
A bigger gripe—and a common one with drones in this price range—is the short flight time. The maximum playing time is no more than eight minutes on a calm day and steady flight. The charging time takes about 90 minutes, so most people invest in extra batteries. And finally, a weather warning. The drone can’t function well in winds that exceed 10mph as it only weighs 4.6 ounces.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 12.2 x 11 x 3″ |
Product Weight: 4.6 oz. |
Camera: 720P HD |
Max Flying Time: 8 minutes |
Max Range: 328 ft. (100m) |
Battery: 3.7V 650mAh |
Charging Time: 90 minutes (1.5 hr.) |
The Pros |
---|
Three speed levels |
WIFI 720P HD camera |
Headless mode |
Altitude hold function |
1-key takeoff/landing |
1-key return |
360-degree flips |
The Cons |
---|
Shortish flight time |
Not stable in windy conditions |
2. Holy Stone HS700 FPV 1080p Camera Drone | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Best Value drone is another quad aimed at the adult beginner. It’s of higher quality than the previous pick and offers a bit more of everything. Keep reading to see if it’s worth the extra cost.
- Best feature 1: Advanced 5G 1080P FHD Camera
- Best feature 2: Variable forward thrust to control speed
- Plus points: Easy to fly, long flight time, brushless motors, follow me mode, auto return
- Minus points: Long charging time, expensive batteries, no propeller guards
This model comes equipped with an advanced 5G 1080P Full HD Camera. Its lens has a 110° field of view (FOV) and is superb for a model in its class. The aerial stills and video footage is notably better than the best budget pick above. The camera is also removable, so you can fly for fun without it or attach a GoPro action camera of your choice. Compatible models include GoPro Hero 2, 3, and 4.
Flying the HS700 FPV Camera Quad
Holy Stone’s HS700 doesn’t have speed controls as such. It does have variable forward thrust, though, and that works well for controlling speed. It really is an easy-to-fly camera quad with a reasonable 20-minute flight time. Its brushless motors are superior to the brushed counterparts too. They’re quieter, more powerful, last longer, and they don’t need maintenance.
The failsafe features with the HS700 give pilots more confidence. What they do is lessen the risk of those dreaded flyaways you may have read about. For example, the drone auto-returns to base (you) if the battery signal gets low. The HS700 also comes home—rather than fly away—if it loses the signal.
HS700’s Standout Features
The HS700 has a Quick Launch feature triggered by the single press of a key. It’s also possible to lock the altitude to help keep flights smoother and more stable. There’s even a headless mode that lets pilots fly without having to point the nose forward. The quick-release propellers are another handy feature that enables operators to replace blades in nanoseconds.
This drone has a Follow Me mode too. It’s a tracking feature that lets people film themselves as they go about their business. Some examples could be cycling, canoeing, rock climbing, and whatever else. You can then share your hands-free footage with others and save it for posterity.
The Not So Good
The Holy Stone HS700 has a lot to offer for a camera quad in its price category, but it’s not perfect. The battery charging time is a ridiculous 5–7 hours depending on the power source. That’s insane, and it means extra batteries are a must-have. The high cost of spare batteries is the second gripe. The third complaint is there aren’t any protective guards for the fast spinning props.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 15.2 x 15.2 x 6.1″ |
Product Weight: 1.34 lbs. |
Camera: Advanced 5G 1080P FHD |
Max Flying Time: 20 minutes |
Max Range: 328 ft. (100m) |
Battery: 2800mAh intelligent type |
Charging Time: 5–7 hours |
The Pros |
---|
Easy to fly at beginner level |
Variable forward thrust to control speed level |
Quiet, powerful brushless motors |
Decent stock camera |
Can attach GoPro or similar |
Long flight time |
Auto Return feature |
Follow Me mode |
Custom Flight Path |
Auto Return |
The Cons |
---|
Long charging time |
Hight cost of batteries |
No protection guards |
3. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Quad w/ 24-48mm Camera | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Top Pick goes to the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom bundle. It’s an exceptional drone for adults who are serious about flying and aerial filming. The 24-48mm optical zoom lens is just one of many standout features.
- Best feature 1: Hight quality 24-48mm optical zoom camera
- Best feature 2: 3-axis gimbal stabilization
- Plus points: Foldable, 8GB internal storage, long flight time, fast flyer, smart flight functions
- Minus points: High cost of flight batteries, no gesture control
The foldable design makes this high-quality camera drone compact, portable, and easy to store. The Mavic Pro also folds down, but the Mavic 2 Zoom feels more solid and certainly has a sleeker finish.
Mavic 2 Zoom Camera with 1/2.3” Sensor
The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom delivers aerial photos and videos of outstanding quality. The quad’s 3-axis gimbal ensures the camera doesn’t suffer shakes and vibrations during an aerial shoot. Consider the Mavic 2 Pro if you don’t need the zoom. That puppy has an incredible Hasselblad camera with a 1” CMOS sensor. For zoom fans, though, this beast—with its 8GB internal storage—is the one to pick.
What you get is a 2x 24-48mm optical zoom and 2x digital zoom. That effectively translates to a 96mm telephoto lens with the ability to capture lossless video in stunning 1080p.
Flying DJI’s Mavic 2 Zoom Quadcopter
This drone is powerful as well as portable. It’s the first ever quad with optical zoom capability. That means aerial photographers can now zoom in from the air when they need to. The Mavic 2 Zoom is also straightforward to fly despite its sophistication and ability. It’s quieter, faster, and flies longer than others in its class. Expect over 30 minutes on a single charge in ideal conditions.
The Mavic 2 Zoom has a familiar feel to its predecessors in the air, and that’s a good thing. It’s always responsive, tight, and maintains a well-recognized athletic ability. It doesn’t wander or drift either. The quad is as comfortable in the sky as pilots are controlling it from the ground. And the 47.7 mph top speed means it can get to where it needs to be—and back—in no time.
The Mavic 2 Zoom also has a plethora of professional DJI standout flight functions to explore.
The Not So Good
There are two shared gripes with this first-class DJI camera drone. The first is the high cost of the DJI Intelligent Flight batteries. They’re excellent products, but pricey. It’s why I chose this 2-battery bundle deal as the top pick. The second disappointment is the lack of gesture control. Hand gestures can be invaluable for close flying when you need to get airborne at a moment’s notice.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 12.67 x 9.52 x 3.30″ |
Product Weight: 31 ounces (2 lbs.) |
Camera: 12MP 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor w/ 24mm–48mm zoom |
Max Flying Time: 31 minutes |
Max Range: 11 miles (18 km) |
Battery: 15.4V 3850 mAh LiPo 4S |
Charging Time: 90 minutes |
The Pros |
---|
Hight quality 24-48mm optical zoom camera |
3-axis gimbal stabilization |
Foldable design |
Long flight time |
Long range |
Obstacle avoidance |
Fast 44mph top speed |
8GB internal storage |
Smart flight functions |
The Cons |
---|
High cost of DJI Intelligent Flight batteries |
No gesture control |
4. Force1 U818A Discovery FPV Camera Quadcopter
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The Force1 U818A Discovery is an affordable and popular First Person View FPV quadcopter. It’s a superb flyer with modes and features that captivate the imagination of adults and kids.
- Best feature 1: VR Headset for ultimate First Person View (FPV) experience
- Best feature 2: Smartphone app control
- Plus points: HD camera, headless mode, altitude hold, 1-button takeoff/landing, bonus battery
- Minus points: Average camera, not gimbal stabilized, not stable in winds
A new U818A comes ready-to-fly (RTF) straight out of the box. It’s a brilliant and capable learner drone for adults new to flying FPV.
Force1 U818A Discovery Flight & Features
Altitude hold is a feature that lets the drone hover at a set height. That helps to stabilize the craft and make it easier to control. Altitude hold also benefits aerial photography and filming by steadying the 2MP 720p camera. The 1-button takeoff/landing is another feature that instills confidence.
The quad comes with a headless mode too. The headless mode allows users to fly regardless of the direction of the drone’s nose. And the smartphone app lets most iOS/Android smart devices control the craft. Simply use the phone’s screen to see what the camera sees in real time. This affordable flying robot even comes with a virtual reality (VR) headset for an even fuller FPV experience.
The flight time is only 9-minutes at best. The good news is that there’s a bonus battery in the box which effectively doubles the flying fun. Battery charging time is around the 90-minute mark.
The Not So Good
The camera can’t produce stills or videos with a wow factor. The footage is fun and viewable, but it’s just not possible to have high-quality optics at this price. The camera doesn’t have gimbal stabilization either. That means some stills and videos may show a little blur and shake, especially in the wind. Finally, this lightweight quadcopter isn’t stable in blustery conditions, so take heed.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 14.4 x 4 x 13.8″ |
Product Weight: 5.4 oz. |
Camera: 2MP HD 720P |
Max Flying Time: 9 minutes |
Max Range: 394 ft. (120m) |
Battery: 33.7V 350mAh LiPo |
Charging Time: 90 minutes (1.5 hrs.) |
The Pros |
---|
VR Headset for immersive First Person View experience |
Smartphone Flyingsee app |
Built-in FPV camera |
Headless mode for easy flying |
Altitude hold function |
Bonus battery |
1-button takeoff/landing |
Flight route mode |
The Cons |
---|
Average camera |
No gimbal stabilization |
Not stable in winds |
5. Force1 F200C Specter MJX B2C Quadcopter Drone
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The B2C Specter MJX Bugs 2 GPS is a capable 1080P camera quadcopter for adults. It’s also easy enough for kids to fly 14 years and above, or younger with parental guidance. Let’s check it out.
- Best feature 1: Full HD 1080p camera
- Best feature 2: Reliable brushless motors
- Plus points: Headless mode, 1-key takeoff/landing, altitude hold, return-to-home, LED lights
- Minus points: Long charging time, no First Person View (FPV), vague manual
For less than 200 dollars—at the time of writing—you get to shoot in 1080P. The quality of the photos and aerial video footage is about as good as it gets for a camera quad in this price category.
The F200C Specter MJX B2C Flight & Features
Flying this smart camera drone is simple for adults at the beginner level. It’s a smooth performer too, thanks to the superior brushless motors. The one-button functions make drone control easy so that pilots can focus more on the camera. There’s altitude hold, 1-key takeoff/landing, and the headless mode, all of which contribute to a painless flight experience.
Failsafe features include one-key return-to-home, low-power return, and low-signal return. These vital features prevent the quad from flying away, known in the drone world as flyaways. The F200C Specter MJX comes with a bonus battery that effectively doubles its flying fun to around 30 minutes.
The Not So Good
It’s just as well there’s a bonus battery as the charging time is a ridiculous 5–6 hours. Some folks complain that the drone doesn’t have First Person View (FPV) capability. It’s a valid gripe considering some cheaper models do. The final negative is the vague or poorly translated user manual.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 16.8 x 11.6 x 5.4″ |
Product Weight: 1.3 lbs. |
Camera: Full HD 1080p |
Max Flying Time: 15 minutes |
Max Range: 3280 ft. (1000m) |
Battery: 7.4V 1800mAh LiPo (x2) |
Charging Time: 5–6 hours |
The Pros |
---|
Full HD 1080p camera |
Reliable brushless motors |
Headless mode for easy flying |
1-key takeoff/landing |
Altitude Hold function |
3 return-to-home functions: 1-Key Return, Low Power Return, & Low Signal Return LEDs |
Bonus battery |
Extra propellers |
The Cons |
---|
No First Person View (FPV) |
Manual unclear, poor translation |
6. Parrot Bebop 2 Compact FPV Quadcopter Drone
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Meet the Parrot Bebop 2 FPV (First Person View) camera quad. It’s for adults who demand immersive FPV experiences through VR Goggles. The camera is a decent built-in 14MP, HD 1080P wide-angle.
- Best feature 1: 14MP full HD 1080P camera w/ wide-angle lens
- Best feature 2: 3-axis digital stabilization system
- Plus points: Cockpit glasses, long flight time, FreeFlight app, follow me, return-to-home
- Minus points: Limited internal storage, some features are extra costs
The Bebop 2 looks different from a typical camera quadcopter drone but in a good way. It has a 3-axis digital stabilization system that ensures shake and blur-free aerial footage.
The Parrot Bebop 2 FPV Flight & Features
Parrot’s Bebop 2 is a superb drone. It’s for teens and adults who want to experience the joy of flying and aerial filming. The quad is compact, lightweight, and great fun to pilot. This one is the base pack that comes with Parrot Cockpit goggles for that immersive FPV experience. The Bebop 2 has a long flight time of around 24 minutes on a single charge. Its 1.2-mile range is also impressive.
Flight control is smooth with the FreeFlight Pro app that works with most Android or ISO smartphones. You can save all recorded data to the app and share it easily online from within the friendly interface.
The Not So Good
The internal storage is a good thing. What’s not so good is that it’s only 8GB and built-in. That means you can’t upgrade it by using a card with more storage capacity. The other gripe is that some features are only available at an extra cost. There are three paid features in total that include the Follow Me Mode, Flight Director, and Flight Plan.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 15 x 3.5 x 12.9″ |
Product Weight: 1.1 lbs. |
Camera: 14MP Full HD 1080p |
Max Flying Time: 25 minutes |
Max Range: 1.2 miles (1.9km) |
Battery: 2700mAh high-capacity |
Charging Time: 60+ minutes (1+ hr.) |
The Pros |
---|
Built-in camera w/ wide-angle lens |
3-axis digital stabilization |
Cockpitglasses (included) |
Long flight time |
FreeFlight Pro app control |
Follow Me mode |
Return-to-Home |
Extra props |
The Cons |
---|
Limited 8GB internal storage |
Some features are paid extras |
7. DJI Spark Mini Drone w/ Fly More Combo for Adults
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
DJI’s Spark is a quality, mini, highly-portable camera quadcopter for adults on the move. The one here is part of a Fly More Combo that includes a bunch of must-have accessories.
- Best feature 1: Quick hand launch and gesture controls
- Best feature 2: DJI GO 4 App
- Plus points: 12MP 1080P camera, stabilization, powerful propulsion, Intelligent Flight Modes
- Minus points: Average flight time, spotty WiFi, noisy motors
We often see the DJI Spark promoted as a selfie drone, but it’s much more than that. It’s a high-tech flying camera robot. It also happens to be one of the—if not the—best beginner drones for adults.
The DJI Spark Flight & Features
A 12MP 1080P gimbal stabilized camera delivers footage akin to the Mavic Air and Mavic Pro. That surprises many people. There are three ways to fly and film with this puppy. You can choose between the remote controller, smartphone + intuitive DJI GO 4 App, and hand gesture controls. The range and flight potential depends on the control method used.
The Spark is an aerodynamic, lightweight, sleek-looking drone with powerful propulsion. It flies with impressive agility even in the wind. In fact, it can remain stable in gusts up to 32mph (50 km/h). Best of all is the Spark’s intuitive flight control system and range of Intelligent Flight Modes.
The Not So Good
DJI’s Spark has a lot going for it but flight time isn’t one of its strengths. The Spark can fly for around 15 minutes in ideal conditions and less at other times. The combo choice in this guide includes a second battery. Another complaint shared by some is spotty WiFi, but not everyone has issues. WiFi connection can depend on several factors based on signal strength and location, etc.
The final gripe is that this quad is noisy for a little bird. The din of the motors becomes more bothersome the closer you fly, like when using hand gesture controls, for example.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 9.8 x 3 x 8.2″ |
Product Weight: 1.49 lbs. |
Camera: 12MP 1080p w/ gimbal |
Max Flying Time: 16 minutes |
Max Range: 1.2 mi (2 km) |
Battery: 11.4V 480mAh Intelligent Flight |
Charging Time: 55 minutes to 80 minutes depending on the power source |
The Pros |
---|
Easy to fly at any level |
12MP 1080P camera |
gimbal stabilization |
Quick hand launch |
Gesture controls |
DJI GO 4 App |
Powerful Propulsion |
Intelligent Flight Modes |
The Cons |
---|
Average flight time |
Spotty WiFi |
Noisy |
8. DJI Phantom 4 PRO Professional Quadcopter Drone
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The last product on this page is a drone for adult fans of the DJI Phantom 4 PRO. It’s a serious quadcopter for men and women who demand high-quality performance and features.
- Best feature 1: Titanium alloy & magnesium alloy build
- Best feature 2: 5-direction obstacle sensing, 4-direction obstacle avoidance
- Plus points: 20MP 4K gimbal camera, gesture control, intelligent flight modes, long flight time
- Minus points: Hight cost of batteries, no prop guards, sketchy app instructions
Quality 20MP, 4K Gimbal-Stabilized Quadcopter
Almost everyone loves the DJI Phantom 4, yet not everyone can justify its cost or features. It’s a high-quality gimbal camera drone made with titanium alloy and magnesium alloy. The Phantom 4 boasts an incredible upgraded 1” 20MP sensor. It’s capable of shooting 4K video at 60 frames per second (fps) and Burst Mode aerial photos at 14fps. This is a sophisticated flying camera for serious drone pilots.
The DJI Phantom 4 PRO Flight & Features
It’s not hard to fly the DJI Phantom 4 at a basic level, and there’s even a Beginner Mode. However, it has a lot going on, so there’s plenty to learn as well. It’s for those who need to exploit its plethora of remarkable features. DJI is famous for its Intelligent Flight Modes, accessible via the DJI GO App.
The 5-direction obstacle sensing and 4-direction obstacle avoidance help to keep the quad safe in the sky. It does this by braking or flying around obstacles depending on the looming obstruction.
Phantom 4 PRO flight modes include (in alphabetical order):
- Active Track (Circle, Profile, Spotlight)
- A-Mode (Altitude)
- Beginner Mode
- Course Lock
- Gesture Mode (hand control)
- Home Lock
- Obstacle Avoidance
- P-Mode (Position)
- S-Mode (Sport)
- TapFly
- Terrain Follow Mode
- Tripod Mode
- Waypoints
The Phantom 4 PRO has an impressive 30-minute flight time on a single charge. A fast 60-minute charging time and long 4.1 mi (7 km) range are other extraordinary features.
The Not So Good
There are a few gripes despite the popularity of the DJI Phantom 4 PRO. The high cost of extra DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries is no small thing. Another complaint is that the drone doesn’t come with protective prop guards. It is possible to buy quick-clip propeller guards for this model, but they’re not always easy to source. The final complaint is with the vague instructions for the DJI GO App.
Tech Specs |
---|
Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 9″ |
Product Weight: 2 lbs. |
Camera: 20MP 4K w/ gimbal |
Max Flying Time: 30 minutes |
Max Range: 4.1 mi (7 km) |
Battery: 15.2V 5870mAh LiPo 4S Intelligent Flight |
Charging Time: 60+ minutes (1+ hr.) |
The Pros |
---|
Tough, titanium alloy & magnesium alloy construction |
Effective obstacle avoidance |
20MP 4K gimbal camera |
Gesture control |
Intelligent flight modes |
Long flight time |
The Cons |
---|
Hight cost of batteries |
No prop guards included |
Sketchy app instructions |
Contents
- Toy-Grade Drones Vs. Hobby-Grade
- What to Look for in a Drone
- Needs, Wants, and Expectations
- Protection from the Dreaded Flyaway
- About my ‘Drones for Adults’ Buyer’s Guide
- Cool Camera Drones for Adults Comparison Table
- 1. LBLA Camera Drone for Beginner Pilots | Best Budget
- Flying the LBLA 720P Camera Quad
- The Camera Quadcopter
- The Not So Good
- 2. Holy Stone HS700 FPV 1080p Camera Drone | Best Value
- Flying the HS700 FPV Camera Quad
- HS700’s Standout Features
- The Not So Good
- 3. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Quad w/ 24-48mm Camera | Top Pick
- Mavic 2 Zoom Camera with 1/2.3” Sensor
- Flying DJI’s Mavic 2 Zoom Quadcopter
- The Not So Good
- 4. Force1 U818A Discovery FPV Camera Quadcopter
- Force1 U818A Discovery Flight & Features
- The Not So Good
- 5. Force1 F200C Specter MJX B2C Quadcopter Drone
- The F200C Specter MJX B2C Flight & Features
- The Not So Good
- 6. Parrot Bebop 2 Compact FPV Quadcopter Drone
- The Parrot Bebop 2 FPV Flight & Features
- The Not So Good
- 7. DJI Spark Mini Drone w/ Fly More Combo for Adults
- The DJI Spark Flight & Features
- The Not So Good
- 8. DJI Phantom 4 PRO Professional Quadcopter Drone
- Quality 20MP, 4K Gimbal-Stabilized Quadcopter
- The DJI Phantom 4 PRO Flight & Features
- The Not So Good