Best Consumer Drones in 2024: 14 Amazing Consumer Drones To Let Fly

As a filmmaker sometimes getting the perfect shot requires more than a human can accomplish. Be it an establishing shot or some movement captured from the sky, you’ll need a drone. But what are the best consumer drones currently on the market?

No longer a toy, drones have become something of an essential tool in the professional photographer’s toolkit. Drones provide you with an easy way to capture mind-blowing images from difficult to reach places.

Drones offer more than just a basic camera with wings. Manufacturers are offering numerous features to draw in photographers, from interchangeable lenses, image stabilization to extra batteries to extend on-air time, drones are more appealing now than ever.

With that said, the options and variety can be overwhelming for a newcomer. That’s why we’ve compiled this beginner-friendly guide on how to choose a drone, what to look for and what to avoid.

The Best Consumer Drones

Well, without further ado, here’s our buying guide to the latest and greatest consumer drones.

1. DJI Mavic Air 2

Design and Portability

The DJI Mavic Air 2 is an epitome of modern drone design, blending both form and function.

It inherits the foldable design from its Mavic series predecessors, making it incredibly compact and travel-friendly.

When folded, the drone easily fits in a small bag or a large pocket. Despite its small stature, it feels robust, with a build quality that assures durability.

The LED indicators on the arms and the aircraft belly not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also enhance visibility during flights, especially in low light.

Flight Performance and Features

The Mavic Air 2 impresses with its enhanced flight performance.

With a maximum flight time of 34 minutes, it stands out in its class, allowing users extended sessions in the air.

The OcuSync 2.0 ensures a stable connection with a remarkable 10km range, reducing concerns over signal loss.

Additionally, the Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS) 3.0 ensures that the drone can seamlessly navigate around obstacles, adding a layer of safety and security to flights.

For those interested in capturing dynamic footage, the Mavic Air 2 offers automated shooting options such as Smart Photo, Focus Track, and Quick Shots, which make professional-looking shots easier to achieve.

Camera and Image Quality

The camera is where the Mavic Air 2 truly shines. Equipped with a 1/2-inch Quad Bayer sensor, it can capture 48MP photos, a significant upgrade from its predecessor.

This ensures detailed and vibrant shots, especially in well-lit environments.

The drone also boasts 4K video recording at 60fps, with HDR capabilities, resulting in footage that is both sharp and color-accurate.

The 3-axis gimbal stabilizes the camera, ensuring smooth footage even during turbulent flights or fast-paced movements.

For aerial photographers, the 8K Hyperlapse feature is a boon, allowing the creation of mesmerizing time-lapse videos.

The DJI Mavic Air 2 sets a new standard for consumer drones, offering a blend of advanced features, top-tier camera capabilities, and user-friendly operations.

It caters to both beginners, with its automated shooting modes and safety features, and professionals, with its high-resolution camera and manual settings.

In a market where competition is fierce, the Mavic Air 2 stands out as a versatile, reliable, and high-performance drone that offers significant value for its price point.

Whether for recreational filming, travel photography, or professional projects, this drone proves to be an indispensable tool in the sky.

2. DJI Mini 2

Design and Portability

The DJI Mini 2, as the name suggests, is all about compactness without compromising on capability.

This ultra-lightweight drone weighs just 249 grams, allowing users to avoid most stringent drone regulations prevalent in many countries.

Its design ethos is clearly geared towards mobility, as the foldable design makes it easy to pack away in a small pouch or backpack compartment.

However, don’t let the size deceive you; the Mini 2 feels sturdy with a build that promises resilience against the occasional bump or minor crash.

The matte finish and well-placed LED indicators give it an elegant and sleek appearance.

Flight Performance and Features

For its size, the DJI Mini 2 packs a punch when it comes to flight performance.

It promises up to 31 minutes of flight time on a full charge – a notable feat for drones in this category.

The OcuSync 2.0 technology ensures a strong connection between the drone and controller, offering a transmission distance of up to 10km.

New pilots will appreciate the upgraded wind resistance, with the ability to withstand gusts up to level 5.

Its return-to-home function, altitude hold, and automated takeoff and landing further simplify the flight experience, making it accessible even for novices.

Camera and Image Quality

While the DJI Mini 2 might be mini in stature, its camera capabilities are anything but.

The drone boasts a 12MP camera that captures crisp and clear images, supported by a 3-axis motorized gimbal that ensures stability during flight.

Video enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to shoot 4K video at 30fps, producing smooth and high-definition footage.

Its zoom feature, which offers 2x lossless zoom and up to 4x digital zoom, adds versatility to the shots.

For those looking to explore their creative side, the drone offers automated shooting modes like panorama, time-lapse, and QuickShots.

The DJI Mini 2 is a testament to the fact that great things can indeed come in small packages.

It offers a blend of user-friendly features, excellent camera capabilities, and commendable flight performance, all wrapped up in a compact and portable design.

For recreational flyers, travelers, and even budding drone photographers, the Mini 2 is an ideal choice.

It serves as a bridge between beginner drones and more professional models, ensuring that users get a taste of premium features without the intimidating complexities.

In essence, the DJI Mini 2 strikes a perfect balance between size, performance, and price, making it a standout in the crowded drone market.

 

 

3. DJI Mavic 2 Pro

Design and Build Quality

The DJI Mavic 2 Pro elevates the standards of drone design with its sleek aesthetics and robust construction.

A foldable masterpiece, it exhibits the familiar compactness that DJI’s Mavic series is known for, making it an ideal companion for travel photographers and videographers.

Its sturdy build, accentuated with durable materials, ensures resilience against minor mishaps, making it forgiving for both novice and experienced pilots.

The LED lights on each arm not only add to its sophisticated appearance but also play a crucial role in low-light visibility.

Performance and Flight Features

In terms of flight performance, the Mavic 2 Pro is a force to be reckoned with.

Offering a flight time of up to 31 minutes, pilots are provided with ample time to capture their desired shots.

Its OcuSync 2.0 technology guarantees a flawless connection even at distances up to 8km.

The Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS) ensures the drone seamlessly navigates around obstacles, while its multiple flight modes, including ActiveTrack 2.0 and Hyperlapse, allow for dynamic shots that previously required significant piloting skills.

Camera Capabilities

A standout feature of the Mavic 2 Pro is its camera, co-engineered with the experts at Hasselblad.

It boasts a 1-inch CMOS sensor, promising unparalleled image quality for a drone of its size.

This larger sensor allows for superior performance in low-light conditions and produces 20MP aerial shots with excellent color accuracy.

The 10-bit Dlog-M color profile provides a broader dynamic range, ensuring that the footage retains detailed highlights and shadows.

Additionally, adjustable aperture from f/2.8 to f/11 grants pilots more creative control over their shots, facilitating everything from expansive landscapes to close-up shots.

The DJI Mavic 2 Pro is not just another drone; it’s a testament to DJI’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerial photography.

With its advanced camera system, impeccable flight performance, and an array of user-friendly features, it’s easy to see why the Mavic 2 Pro is often heralded as the best consumer drone on the market.

Whether you’re a professional videographer, an avid traveler, or a drone enthusiast, the Mavic 2 Pro promises a level of clarity, flexibility, and performance that few of its competitors can match.

In the realm of aerial photography and videography, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro undoubtedly reigns supreme.

4. Autel Robotics Evo Lite+

Design and Portability

The Autel Robotics Evo Lite+ is the embodiment of modern drone design with its sleek structure and impressive foldability.

The compactness that it brings to the table, especially considering its feature set, is commendable.

It’s apparent that Autel Robotics has invested heavily in ensuring that the drone not only looks appealing but is also durable enough to withstand regular usage.

The lightweight design makes it an apt choice for those on the move, and the intuitive controller design complements the drone’s overall user-friendliness.

Flight Performance and Features

When it comes to flight dynamics, the Evo Lite+ doesn’t disappoint.

Capable of flying for extended periods, it ensures users can maximize their shooting time without constantly worrying about battery life.

The drone’s stability, even in slightly windy conditions, is a testament to its advanced flight control systems.

Features like obstacle avoidance and return-to-home functionality ensure safety during flight, making it friendly for both beginners and seasoned drone pilots.

The multiple flight modes, including Follow Me and Waypoint, add to the array of tools at a pilot’s disposal.

 

Camera Quality and Capabilities

The camera is arguably the Evo Lite+’s most brag-worthy feature.

Delivering stunningly clear images and videos, the drone’s camera system is geared for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Rich details, vibrant colors, and smooth footage are the norms, not exceptions.

The gimbal stabilization further ensures that shakiness is almost non-existent, making every shot cinematic.

The range of video resolutions and frame rates available offer flexibility, allowing users to choose the best setting for their specific needs.

The Autel Robotics Evo Lite+ stands as a compelling choice in the ever-growing drone market.

Combining superior design, advanced flight features, and a top-of-the-line camera system, it caters to users of all levels of expertise.

Whether capturing scenic landscapes, action shots, or just enjoying the thrill of flight, the Evo Lite+ delivers on all fronts.

It’s a clear statement from Autel Robotics: they’re here to set standards, not just meet them.

For anyone seeking a drone that melds performance with functionality, the Autel Robotics Evo Lite+ should be at the top of the consideration list.

5. Skydio 2

As the demand for drones with intelligent autonomy increases, the Skydio 2 emerges as a standout.

It boasts an autonomous flight system powered by AI, setting it apart from the competition.

The Skydio 2 offers remarkable obstacle avoidance capability.

Its use of six 4K cameras grants it a 360-degree view, ensuring it navigates even the most complex environments with ease.

For filmmakers, the Skydio 2’s ability to follow and film subjects autonomously is a game-changer.

It unleashes creative potential, allowing us to focus more on the story and less on piloting.

Here are some of the features that make Skydio 2 a wise choice for us:

• Autonomous subject tracking
• Advanced obstacle avoidance
• High-quality video footage at 4K60fps

also, it features a high-quality main camera.

This is essential for us, as it captures the crisp, clear footage necessary for a professional look.

The Skydio 2 remains connected up to 3.

5 miles away.

This impressive range provides ample freedom for various shooting scenarios.

Battery life is substantial as well, with up to 23 minutes of flight time.

We can capture extended takes without the constant need for battery swaps.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Skydio 2 is its portability.

Its compact frame means it can be easily transported to different shooting locations.

Integration with popular editing software is straightforward, streamlining the post-production process.

This compatibility ensures that the Skydio 2 fits seamlessly into our workflow.

Equipped with a strong build and a user-friendly interface, the Skydio 2 is not only advanced but also reliable.

It stands ready to handle the rigorous demands of complex shoot schedules.

6. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

When we’re talking about top-tier professional drones, the DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.

0 is a name that resonates with quality and performance.

This model is an outstanding choice for filmmakers who require reliability and high-end features.

It comes equipped with a 1-inch 20MP Exmor R CMOS sensor which can capture stunning 4K video at 60fps.

The camera also offers impressive still photography capabilities, making it versatile for different types of content creation.

The drone’s FlightAutonomy system includes dual rear vision sensors and infrared sensing for a total of 5-direction obstacle sensing and 4-direction obstacle avoidance.

Such features keep the drone safe while navigating through complex environments.

Another notable enhancement is the OcuSync transmission system that offers a more reliable control range and video transmission.

This update means filmmakers can fly the drone up to 7 kilometers away with a live view feed.

With the introduction of quieter propellers and reduced overall flight noise, the Phantom 4 Pro V2.

0 is less intrusive.

This aspect is crucial when filming scenes that demand a lower profile for minimal disturbance.

Operational efficiency is crucial in filmmaking, and this drone doesn’t disappoint.

With a battery life of about 30 minutes, directors can expect ample time to nail the perfect shot without constant landings for recharging.

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.

0 integrates smoothly with DJI’s suite of editing tools and services.

With these capabilities, we find post-production workflows are greatly simplified, allowing for a more seamless transition from shooting to editing.

Critical specifications

Feature	Specification
Camera Sensor	1-inch 20MP Exmor R CMOS
Video Resolution	4K 60fps
Transmission System	OcuSync
Max Flight Distance	7 kilometers
Flight Time	30 minutes
Obstacle Sensing	5-directions

It’s clear the Phantom 4 Pro V2.

0 is engineered for professionals who won’t settle for less than the best.

Its advanced features and robust build prepare it for the demanding conditions of a film set and the precision required in high-quality video production.

7. Parrot Anafi

The Parrot Anafi stands out in the consumer drone market for its unique capabilities which cater especially to filmmakers.

It’s a compact drone that boasts 4K HDR video shooting and a camera that can tilt 180 degrees to achieve impressive low-angle shots.

One significant advantage for on-the-go filmmakers is the Parrot Anafi’s lightweight design.

We can easily transport it in a backpack, making it perfect for those impromptu aerial shots in remote locations.

Not only does it provide excellent image quality, but it also has a respectable battery life.

With up to 25 minutes of flight time, we have a generous window to nail complex moving shots.

Features that make the Parrot Anafi a strong contender include:

• 4K HDR video for dynamic range enhancement
• Lossless zoom to get closer to the subject without moving the drone

We appreciate that the Anafi is equipped with advanced features such as SmartDronies and FlightPlan.

These functions offer automated filming modes and pre-planned flight paths, optimizing our time in the field.

The drone also supports USB-C charging for added convenience.

We can quickly recharge on location using a laptop or power bank, significantly reducing downtime during shoots.

When it comes to wind resistance and flight stability, the Parrot Anafi performs admirably.

It ensures that even in less than ideal outdoor conditions, our footage remains steady and clear.

Overall, the combination of high-end filming capabilities and user-friendly features makes the Parrot Anafi a solid choice for filmmakers.

It meets the demand for both high-quality footage and portability without sacrificing performance.

8. Autel Robotics Evo II

As we jump into the robust world of consumer drones, the Autel Robotics Evo II emerges as a powerhouse among its peers.

With its ability to capture 8K video, this drone pushes the boundaries of aerial cinematography.

Equipped with a 48MP camera, the Evo II stands out as a top contender for filmmakers seeking exceptional image quality.

Its 1/2″ CMOS sensor is a leap forward in drone technology, offering filmmakers the versatility they need.

The Autel Robotics Evo II isn’t just about the camera specs – it’s also engineered for endurance.

Sporting a flight time of up to 40 minutes, it ensures we get all the shots needed without the worry of frequent landings.

Here are some of the features that set the Evo II apart:

• 8K video resolution ensures that every detail is captured with clarity and precision.
• A maximum flight time of 40 minutes allows for extended shooting sessions.
• The drone comes with a 9km video transmission range, offering substantial freedom of movement.
• Obstacle avoidance systems safeguard the drone during complex flight maneuvers.

Besides, the Evo II’s omnidirectional obstacle sensing makes it reliable for flying in challenging environments.

This feature gives filmmakers the confidence to focus on creativity while the drone handles the technical nuances.

Not only is the Evo II’s build quality top-notch, but it’s also foldable for enhanced portability.

Its design makes it easy to take on any film project, whether it’s in the bustling streets or the quiet countryside.

9. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

Upgrading our creative toolkit, we’re excited to jump into the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom.

It’s a marvel for filmmakers who crave dynamic perspectives and exceptional detail in their aerial footage.

Even though not brandishing the same 8K capabilities as the Autel Robotics Evo II, the Mavic 2 Zoom becomes a story of its own with a unique set of features tailored for the art of filmmaking.

One standout trait of the Mavic 2 Zoom is its 24-48 mm optical zoom lens.

This zoom capability enables us to capture close-up shots without disturbing the natural flow of the scene we’re filming.

Spectacular wildlife sequences or intense action moments are effortlessly recorded, adding an impressive layer of versatility to our narrative storytelling.

The drone’s 4K video recording prowess ensures that image quality is never compromised, even when we push the limits of its zoom.

Crisp, clear footage is a constant with the Mavic 2 Zoom, opening a realm of post-production creativity.

On the fly, we’re able to hone in on subjects, adding an emotional impact and a cinematic flair that would be challenging to achieve otherwise.

Hyperlapse, the drone’s ability to merge time and movement, is a feature we can’t gloss over.

By integrating this with the zoom, we craft scenes that resonate with viewers.

The importance of motion in film cannot be overstated, and with the Mavic 2 Zoom, we have the keys to an incredibly immersive experience.

• Flight time of 31 minutes
• Obstacle sensing on all sides

Transportability is another aspect we consider important.

Like its foldable cousin from the DJI lineup, the Mavic 2 Zoom is compact and highly mobile.

We’re always ready to go, ensuring that no matter where our creativity takes us, our drone is never a burden but a seamless addition to our gear.

Its robust design makes it sturdy enough for the rigorous demands of on-location shooting, giving us peace of mind with every flight.

10. Yuneec Typhoon H3

When considering drone options for our next aerial filmmaking project, we can’t overlook the Yuneec Typhoon H3.

Designed in collaboration with Leica, it brings precision German engineering to the skies.

The Typhoon H3 features a 1-inch CMOS sensor.

This sensor captures highly detailed 4K video, essential for contemporary filmmaking and delivering exceptional image quality.

One remarkable aspect of this drone is its six-rotor design.

It offers stability and reliability in various weather conditions:

• Improved wind resistance
• Redundant safety – if one rotor fails, the drone can still land safely
• A 360-degree unobstructed camera view – no gear in the way

With the Leica ION L1 Pro camera, filmmakers can achieve that iconic Leica look.

By incorporating Intel-powered obstacle avoidance, the Yuneec Typhoon H3 helps us fly with confidence.

We can focus on capturing the right shots without the worry of mid-air collisions.

The drone also showcases impressive smart shooting modes.

They include Orbit Me, Follow Me, and Journey mode, enhancing our storytelling capabilities.

Battery life shouldn’t be a concern when working with this drone.

The Typhoon H3 boasts a flight time of up to 25 minutes.

Professionals will appreciate the advanced PX4-based flight control system.

It provides precise flight control and has a wide range of camera settings to tweak.

11. DJI Mavic Air

The DJI Mavic Air stands as a marvel in the drone technology space.

We’ve seen its compact size and foldable design make it exceptionally portable for filmmakers on the go.

This drone isn’t just about easy transport.

Its ability to capture stunning 4K video at 30fps places it high on our list for aerial cinematography.

Flight time is crucial when we’re in the middle of a shoot.

The Mavic Air delivers up to 21 minutes of flight time.

That’s plenty for most indie projects and for getting those magnificent aerial shots without the constant need for a recharge.

We can’t overlook the Mavic Air’s advanced gimbal system.

It provides us with incredibly stable footage, which is vital for any serious film production.

This stability is further improved by Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS).

These systems enable the drone to bypass obstacles, contributing to smoother shots.

Drone control is intuitive with the Mavic Air, making it a favorite among our team.

We appreciate how the dedicated remote controller is enhanced with a fold-out smartphone holder.

This ensures that piloting our drone feels as natural as filmmaking itself.

When we consider onboard features – the Mavic Air impresses with its smart capture functionality.

This allows for gesture control, freeing us from traditional piloting methods.

Creative shooting modes such as QuickShots and ActiveTrack just enhance our ability to tell a compelling story.

• Maximum speed up to 68.4 kph
• Enhanced Wi-Fi video transmission

With specs like these, the Mavic Air often becomes the go-to drone for filmmakers who need both portability and power.

Whether it’s a dynamic chase scene or a serene landscape, the Mavic Air ensures our vision takes flight.

12. PowerVision PowerEgg X

When versatility meets innovation, we get the PowerVision PowerEgg X.

It’s not just a drone, but a camcorder and AI camera bundled into one dynamic package.

This drone stands out with its ability to function in various weather conditions, including light rain, thanks to its waterproof accessories.

With the PowerEgg X, filmmakers no longer need to worry about the weather interfering with their shooting schedule.

Capturing high-definition footage is a breeze with the PowerEgg X.

It boasts a 4K/60fps camera mounted on a three-axis gimbal, ensuring stability and clarity in every shot.

The unique feature of this drone is its facial recognition technology which keeps subjects in focus during complex shoots.

We appreciate the PowerEgg X’s multifunctionality, which extends beyond airborne tasks:

• Autonomous flight modes – enabling filmmakers to focus on the content, not the flying
• Handheld mode – for ground shots with drone-level stabilization
• Tripod-mounted – to harness its AI capabilities for static scenes

It’s not just about flying; the PowerEgg X excels as a stationary AI camera.

Its gesture recognition and subject tracking make it a valuable asset for solo filmmakers and vloggers.

With up to 30 minutes of flight time, creators have ample opportunity to capture the perfect scene without the pressure of a ticking clock.

PowerVision has crafted a drone that defies conventional limitations, offering us remarkable flexibility.

The PowerEgg X’s unique design also facilitates quick switching between drone and handheld modes, empowering us with the freedom to explore creative filming angles effortlessly.

Drone enthusiasts will find much to admire in this innovative tech, especially those who prioritize adaptability and resilience in their gear.

13. Hubsan Zino Pro

When exploring the vast skies for epic cinematographic captures, the Hubsan Zino Pro emerges as an unexpected contender.

Armed with a 4K Ultra HD camera on a stable three-axis gimbal, it delivers crisp, clear visuals that can elevate any filmmaker’s portfolio.

Ample Flight Time is one of the Zino Pro’s hallmark features, offering up to 23 minutes in the air.

This allows for extensive shooting sessions without the constant worry of battery life cutting it short.

The drone’s flight time paired with its advanced features makes it a noteworthy option in the competitive drone market.

With a control range of up to 4km, the drone ensures that you can reach awe-inspiring vistas and capture them from perspectives that truly stand out.

It also boasts Intelligent Flight Modes to aid users in crafting complex cinematic sequences with relative ease.

Key Features of the Hubsan Zino Pro:

• 4K Ultra HD camera mounted on a 3-axis stable gimbal
• Up to 23 minutes of flight time on a single charge
• Impressive 4km control distance
• Advanced flight modes including Line Fly and Orbiting

Craftiness in design does not go unnoticed with the Zino Pro – foldable arms make it conveniently portable.

The compact size when folded ensures that it can travel with you on all filming ventures.

Smart features, like Automatic Return to Home and Vision Auxiliary Landing, provide peace of mind during flight.

You can focus on capturing stunning aerial footage while the drone takes care of its positional awareness and safety.

Even though its smaller stature in the drone world, the Hubsan Zino Pro proves that great things come in compact, foldable packages.

Its capabilities render it a reliable tool for independent filmmakers and hobbyists looking for a balance between functionality and price.

14. DJI Mavic Mini

When considering drones for filmmaking, it’s imperative to examine the DJI Mavic Mini.

Weighing just under 250 grams, this drone evades the requirement for FAA registration, making it a fantastic choice for beginner filmmakers.

The Mavic Mini’s camera captures 2.

7K video at 30 frames per second.

Its 12MP sensor ensures your aerial shots are clear and detailed.

Compact yet powerful, this drone is an exemplar of DJI’s commitment to miniaturization without compromising quality.

Boasting a flight time of up to 30 minutes, the Mavic Mini provides ample opportunity to nail the perfect shot.

Its impressive 4 km HD video transmission ensures filmmakers can execute complex tracking shots with confidence.

Features that elevate the Mavic Mini include:

• GPS Precise Hover – stabilizes the drone for smooth footage
• CineSmooth Mode – slows the drone’s speed for cinematic precision
• QuickShots – automated flight paths for intricate aerial moves

Ease of use is a hallmark of the Mavic Mini.

Its dedicated app, DJI Fly, offers a user-friendly interface and a variety of creator templates.

This drone makes it easier for us to capture professional-level content right from our smartphones.

The importance of a reliable and portable drone cannot be overstated in our field.

The Mavic Mini’s responsiveness and foldable design cater perfectly to on-the-go filmmakers.

It simplifies the logistics of aerial cinematography and opens up new avenues for creative expression.

Aspiring filmmakers need tools that encourage experimentation without a steep learning curve.

The Mavic Mini’s combination of lightweight design and advanced features achieves this balance.

It’s an inviting drone for those who are eager to explore the vast possibilities of aerial filmmaking.

 

 

Your Buying Decisions

Let’s take a look at a few of the key buying decisions when you’re considering which consumer drone to opt for.

Flying time

You buy a drone because it flies, and so the most important aspect is how long can the thing fly. The answer varies depending on what type of drone you buy.

For the needs of a photographer, a professional drone that can fly up to 30 minutes on a single charge will do the job. If you plan on doing extensive shooting for a day, extra batteries are mandatory.

Batteries

Considering the extensive amount of time it may take a photographer to get the perfect image or shot, it stands to reason they’ll want a drone that flies longer.

Therefore, make sure your drone has interchangeable batteries. That is unless you want to wait out for it to charge.

Range

If you’re planning on doing long aerial tracking shots or something similar, you’ll want a professional drone. Their flying range is up to 2KM. Just make sure to keep it in sight unless you want an unfortunate accident.

Camera

Since you intend to use your drone for professional photography, you’ll want the best results. Anything from full HD to 4K will do the job depending on your budget.

Also, make sure there’s built-in image stabilization unless you want shaky, amateurish, and unusable footage.

Another helpful option is the first person view which allows you to see what the drone is seeing. It’s pretty instrumental in getting things right if you ask us.

A Few More Things To Consider

Although what we covered are the most important features you’ll want in your drone, there are a few more helpful ones that might interest you. GPS support is a nice thing to have.

Not only can you always keep track of where your drone is but you can also program routes it can follow and even command it to return to its take-off spot.

The last thing we need to mention is the ease of repair. It’s inevitable that crashes and damages may occur to your drone. This is an unfortunate but ever-present reality of being a drone user.

In that case, you’ll want a drone with easy to replace parts. In addition, we recommend getting drones that operate on brushless motors since they last longer and need fewer replacements.

Best Consumer Drones – Wrapping

That’ll be all for our comprehensive guide on the best consumer drones for beginners.

Remember that the right drone for you is the one that will accomplish the things you need and suit your budget.

Any drone you buy, however, must tick all the boxes we mentioned. Flying time, interchangeable batteries, flight range, and an adequate camera are the least things a drone has to excel in to justify a purchase.

Hopefully, these guidelines, tips, and our list of fantastic drones will guide you in the right direction. Good luck!
 

We have Gear Buyer’s Guides on every type of Filmmaking Equipment!