Looking for a drone for professional or recreational purposes?
Here we have a list of 12 drones you should consider checking out.
I’m sure that you’ll be able to find something that works for you and at the right price point.
If you are already experimenting by capturing the small and big moments of life on either video or still images or whether you use your camcorder, camera or mobile but you want to spice these up by buying a Drone, then these articles are a perfect guide for you.
First we are going to review the features of the products together with some information. When buying a drone for the first time, it can be difficult to choose the best drone because of all the different choices. So, we have chosen the top best drones that we will present to you in the following section.
Disclaimer – This article may contain affiliate links, this means that at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission for qualifying purchases.
The 12 Best Drones Under $500 in 2021
1. 3DR Solo Quadcopter Drone
First, on the list, we have the 3DR Solo. It is the oldest among the others on the list, but it still proves itself to be top especially with regards to speed. Professionals and recreational users use this drone to capture aerial photos and videos, and it also goes well with a GoPro. The reason for its success is thanks to the accurate performance when it comes to shooting. It is also the most recommended when it comes to GoPro usage.The most recommended style is 3DR solo Quadcopter.
The control distance for the Solo stands at 2,000 meters. You can always purchase an extension kit that allows you an extra 2,000 meters. The flight time for the 3DR Solo is 18- 20 minutes with a camera. Without one, you get an additional five minutes. Flight modes include Follow, Cable Cam, Orbit, and Selfie. You can use your smartphone to stream videos too.
The 3DR Solo comes with a Pixhawk flight controller that is known for its stability and responsiveness. Speaking of speed, this drone can reach speeds of 55mp/h (88km/h). For that reason, this drone is best left for seasoned drone flyers. If you’re starting drone flying, you’re very likely to crash this drone before you get the hang of the speeds.
Key features
- Control distance of 2,000 meters
- 18-20 minute flight time
- Reaches speeds of 55mp/h
What we like
- Goes well with a GoPro
- It is quite fast
2.Altair Outlaw SE Drone
GPS Drone with Camera
Here is a drone that is made simple for beginners as well to enjoy. The built-in camera shoots 1080p HD stills and video, all of which are stunning. There is also a 110-degree panoramic field so that you can take some super-wide shots for when you need to. Even with that, you can expect steady shots because the drone remains stable when it is hovering. There is the Point of Interest Mode that users will take particular interest in. You can pinpoint a location on the map, and the drone will fly to that location.
The drone range stands at 600 meters with a 20 minute flight time when on the battery. That’s enough time to get the shots you need before you need to charge it again. Some of the features you get are the one-button takeoff and landing button, Altitude Hold, Fail-Safe Return to Home and others all thanks to the GPS. The latter function is important for when the battery is about to die, and you need the drone to come back ASAP or if you happen to lose connection. It flies back to the starting point.
One particular flight mode that you’re bound to like is the Follow Me mode. You can have the drone follow your every move for elaborate shots that you want to take. The close range also makes the Altair Outlaw SE ideal for selfies. Overall, this drone is just not ideal for hobbits but also those who want to get into professional photography.
Key features
- Shoots 1080p HD stills and video
- 600 meters drone range
- 20 minutes of flight time
- Has 110-degree panoramic field
What we like
- Ideal for selfies
- As a reasonably flight time
3. ARRIS X-Speed Racer Drone
Racing Drone Camera
With this next drone, you get FPV ability that is adjustable from zero to thirty degrees. The ARRIS does let you use your smartphone to make adjustments to the flight perimeters. The camera that comes with this drone is a Sony 700TVL 3.6mm camera which is good quality. Even in the event of an upgrade, you might be inclined to keep it.
The company has taken a different approach to stabilize the drone. They are using a vibration-damping plate to stabilize the drone and also enhance the capturing of shots, whether stills or video. The ARRIS comes with an F3 flight controller. When you get the package, you’ll up and flying the drone immediately. You will, however, have to get a battery charger separately.
Overall, this drone is quite fast, making it ideal for pros and racers. If you’re a beginner, then it is perhaps best that you steer clear of the ARRIS because it is fast and has high maneuverability. That said, the flight time stands at between 12 and 15 minutes with a control distance of about 900 and 1500 meters. get FPV ability that is adjustable from zero to thirty degrees. The ARRIS does let you use your smartphone to make adjustments to the flight perimeters. The camera that comes with this drone is a Sony 700TVL 3.6mm camera which is good quality. Even in the event of an upgrade, you might be inclined to keep it.
Key features
- Shoots 1080p HD stills and video
- 600 meters drone range
- 20 minutes of flight time
- Has 110-degree panoramic field
What we like
- Ideal for selfies
- As a reasonably flight time
4. DJI Phantom 3 Professional Quadcopter Drone
Standard Quadcopter
DJI is one brand that has worked to be a cut above the competitors. You’ll quickly see why that is thanks to the features it has. For one, it has a flight time of 23-25 minutes which is impressive by industry standards. The battery itself uses intelligent technology that allows better power management. You can also carry around extra batteries if you’re looking to take tons of shots. It also has a maximum range of almost 1,000 meters. When you get it straight from the box, it is ready to fly.
You can then use the DJI Go app to view the streaming live image. The recording capability of the camera stands at 2.7 K/30 fps and captures photos of 12M that gives you some incredible aerial footage. The camera gives you a 94-degree field of view lens. Even in a strong wind, you’ll find that the drone is stable and still easy to control. The three-axis stabilized gimbal keeps the drone stable.
One of the features that the Phantom 3 has is Follow-Me where you’re able to take some fantastic selfies and footage as well. With these features, we can say that this drone is exceptionally good for experts and beginners alike. You can use the remote controller or your smartphone.
Key features
- 23-25 minutes of flight time
- The maximum range of 1,000 meters
- Has a three-axis stabilized gimbal for camera stability
- Uses intelligent technology to regulate battery usage
What we like
- Comes from the box ready to fly
- Has the Follow-Me feature
5. DJI Spark Drone
Remote Control with Stabilized Gimbal Camera
The DJI Spark drone is an all-around drone that is good for everyone. That means the beginner and the pro can both purchase it and get a ton of fun and great shots from it. The Spark is newer than the Phantom. It has more enhanced processing algorithms, and this gives your images better colors.
It is also faster to get up and to run. You can do that within less than a minute. However, for the Phantom, you’ll have to update firmware, connect the remote to your device, and wait for pairing. That fast paring is thanks to the fact that you can use a WIFI connection though the company’s GO 4 app.
The aspect that also makes this drone beginner friendly is the forward obstacle avoidance system. Other features that it has is the usual Return to Home, Timed Shot, Quick Launch, and Face-Aware, only to mention a few. Now to the camera; you get a 12MP camera that has 1080p video resolution that is at 30FPS. The range for the Phantom is 90-100 meters and a flight time of 16 minutes. The 2-axis mechanical gimbal keeps the camera in place as the drone is flying. In these areas, the Phantom performs better.
Features
- Has an obstacle avoidance system
- 12MP camera with 1080p quality videos
- Flight time of 16 minutes
- 90-100 meter flight range
What we like
- Give you better color imaging
- Beginner friendly
6. Ehang Ghostdrone 2.0 Drone
Drone with Stabilized 3-Axis Gimbal
Here we have a little known brand that is still ideal for beginners, intermediate and expert fliers. When it comes to operating it, all you need is your smartphone. Yes, this drone does not come with a remote controller. Instead, you pair the drone with your smartphone through WIFI via their free downloadable EHANG PLAY app available for both Android and iOS.
The flight range of this drone is 1,000 meters and has an impressive flight time of 25 minutes. That is, however, dependent on the flight conditions and also connectivity. The camera is also exceptional. It is an Ehang Sports 4K 12MP camera and also a three-axis gimbal. The gimbal can also support other cameras such as the GoPro.
Some of the features available are Flight Planning Mode, Avatar Mode, Waypoint Mode, and Companion Mode. All these modes are available on the app. There is also the Auto-Return feature for when the battery is low and GPS. The fact that there is no remote control is not all bad; it means that you’re still getting a fantastic camera and still getting the drone at an affordable price point.
Key features
- Ehang Sports 4K 12MP camera
- Three-axis gimbal
- Flight time of 25 minutes
- 1,000-meter drone rang.
What we like
- Auto-Return feature for when the battery is low
- You can still use it without a remote control
7. Holy Stone HS700 Drone
Ideal Selfie Drone
The Holy Stone HS700 made an impressive entrance in the drone market and has been a choice for many ever since. It makes a good alternative for those strapped for cash, and they still want to take stunning aerial photography and videography. For the price point, you won’t be disappointed.
The range for this drone is 1,000- 3,000 meters and flies back to you even when it is well out of your sight thanks to the auto-return home feature. Each battery gives you a flight time of 20 minutes which is relatively long. The camera is 12MP and has a shooting capability of 1080p and also live transmission via WIFI to your smartphone. You do that via their free downloadable app for iOS and Android. There is a phone holder on the remote controller that you can use to attach your phone.
Other features that are there are the GPS systems of Custom Flight Path and Follow Me Mode. You can key in the direction you want the drone to take, or you can opt for it to fly in a circle so that you get the desired footage or pictures. It does lack a great stabilized 90-defree gimbal; so you’ll have to put in more effort when it comes to keeping the drone steady.
Key features
- 1,000- 3,000 meters flight range
- 20 minute flight time
- 12MP and 1080p camera
- Stabilized 90-defree gimbal
What we like
- Has a long flight range
- Affordable
8. Parrot Bebop 2 Drone
Powerful Motors and Battery
Here we have the Bebop 2 whose strong area is being able to fly too high altitudes thanks to the strong motors. The flight time for this drone is 23-25 minutes and a flight range of 2,000 meters. With this drone, you get a 4 MP 1080p video recording ability. You can either use your smartphone or the remote to control it. You do, however, have to purchase the remote separately.
One can use a connection app on their smartphone to stream real-life video. There is also the -axis digital stabilization feature that allows you to keep the camera steady and to point in the right direction. There is also the fish-eye lens that gives the drone better navigation. It is worth to note that this drone is quite fast and is suitable for use even in windy weather.
The Bebop also has an LED light in the rear so that you’re able to see it even from a faraway distance and in low lighting. That’s not something other drones have. Overall, this is a drone that is ideal for professionals and beginners alike. It is equally quite light and compact, making it easy to carry with you anywhere you want to capture memories.
Key features
- Flight time of about 25 minutes
- 2,000 flight distance
- 4MP 1080p video
- Remote sold separately
What we like
- This drone is fast
- Has a long flight time
9. Traxxas 7908 Aton Drone
Easy to Use
Next, we have a model that you’ve likely not heard before. Even with that, the Traxxas 7908 Aton is worth being on this list. It is a powerful drone and ideal for professionals and intermediate users alike. What makes the best is because it is fast, agile, and maneuverable. There is the Sports mode feature that allows you to go up to 50mph, all thanks to the six-axis flight stability
The Aton Plus has three flight modes: Expert Mode, Sport Mode, and Film Mode. The latter is best for beginners who are keen on taking photos and videos. With the Sport, you can do impressive flips and role when shooting. For all the modes, there are air brakes that stop the drone and allow it to hover.
The flight range for this drone is 200 meters which are quite short compared to others on the list. It does, however, have a significantly longer flight time of 25 minutes. The Aton Plus has a two-axis gimbal for you to place your camera; it doesn’t come with one. You can remove the gimbal and put the one that suits the camera you’re using. It works well with GoPro, either the third or the fourth generation and Xiaomi action cameras, among others.
Key features
- Flight time of 25 minutes
- 200-meter flight range
- Comes with three flight modes
- Doesn’t come with a camera
What we like
- It is fast thanks to the sports mode
- You can use it with different cameras
10. UPair One Drone
Drone for Beginners
Here’s another brand of drones that you should look out for. It comes with a 120-degree wide-angle 12MP 4k camera that produces top-quality images and footage, all at an affordable price. It comes as a complete FPV package that comes with a screen included. The camera is supported on a brushless two-axis gimbal. What makes this drone best is that it competes with one of the best drones on this list, the DJI Phantom. It is also ideal for beginners.
The UPair One is capable of hovering with no input from the pilot, which makes maneuvering easier and reduces the changes in crashes. Overall, this drone has a flight time of 15 to 19 minutes with a maximum control range that is 1,000m. You’re able to have live video transmission when it is only at 600 meters. The transmission comes on the seven-inch monitor screen that is on the remote controller.
The drone comes with a full GPS lock and other features. With the stated feature, you’re able to search and lock on eight different satellites. You’re able to get all these features on a budget. You get a good experience with the UPair One.
Key features
- Flight time of 15 to 19 minutes
- Maximum control range of 1,000m
- 12MP 4k camera
- Can take 120-degree wide-angle shots
What we like
- It is an ideal drone for those on a budget
- It has a good camera
11. Walkera F210 3D Drone
The Best Racing Drone
The Walkera drone is ideal for those who are drone racing for the first time but might not be the best for those flying drones for the first time. That’s because of this FPV drone racer because it is extremely fast and has high maneuverability. It uses KV2500 brushless motors to support the speed. The drone has an FPV of 120 degrees and an HD night vision camera.
Another feature that the drone has it that it has both normal and night vision cameras. The drone is a sturdy build and has quite a number of features. You can adjust the seven modes on the flight controller to meet your specifications. You can also do that with the help of your smartphone. The fact that it is light makes it great for racing and being able to take fast turns and keep up with competing drones.
Additionally, the F210 3D comes with an attachment for a GoPro. The speed of the drone is 30mph and has a flight time of between 15 and 20 minutes. One thing to note is that you can still fly the plane even in windy conditions. It is made of carbon fiber and able to withstand bumps and crashes. You use a remote controller to navigate the plane.
Key features
- 15-20 minute flight time
- HD night vision camera
- Has an attachment for GoPro
- Drone speed of 30mph
Why we like it
- It is fast and ideal for racing
- Good for beginner and pro drone races
12. Wingsland M5 Drone
RC Drone with HD Camera Quadcopter
Last on the list we have the Wingsland M5 drone. It is ideal for FPV Beginners as well as people of all skill levels. It comes with a built-in 720p 25fps camera. The flight time for this drone is 17 minutes. It is a better choice for those who want to capture photos and just don’t want a toy drone.
The GPS-Assisted Hover is what makes this drone ideal for beginners too. In general, it is made for first time pilots in mind. Thanks to the Optical Flow Sensor, you’re able to have a smooth flight and great altitude hold. You can either use a remote control or your smartphone using an app. With the phone or tablet, the control range is only 100 meters. The control gives you a maximum range of 500 meters.
You’re able to get live video transmitted to the FPV monitor that’s on the remote controller. There is the Follow Me mode and the Return to Home mode for you to utilize. When it comes to speed, the Wingslland M5 goes at a maximum speed of 26 mph. Do note though that the camera lens as a narrow 63-degree field of view.
Key features
- 720p 25fps camera
- The maximum range of 500 meters with the remote controller
- Flight time of 17 minutes
- Has a 63-degree field of view
Resource:
What we like
- Ideal for beginners
- It has altitude hold for steady photos and videos
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