The Best Drones for Beginners in 2024: Take Flight with Confidence

Video: BEST DRONES FOR BEGINNERS IN 2023 | What drone should you buy to get started?..







Quick Answer: If you’re a beginner looking to explore the world of drones, we’ve got you covered. After extensive research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best drones for beginners in 2024. Whether you’re interested in aerial photography, racing, or just having fun, these drones offer the perfect balance of ease of use, affordability, and features. So buckle up and get ready to soar!

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

Looking for the best drones for beginners in 2024? We’ve done the research and testing for you. Here are our top picks:

  1. DJI Mavic Mini
  2. Holy Stone HS720
  3. Autel EVO II
  4. DJI Phantom 4 Pro
  5. Parrot Anafi
  6. Yuneec Typhoon H Pro
  7. Ryze Tello
  8. Potensic D88
  9. Hubsan X4 H107C
  10. Blade Nano QX RTF

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | DJI Official Website

Quick Tips and Facts

  • Drones are becoming increasingly popular for recreational use, aerial photography, and even racing.
  • Beginner drones are designed to be easy to fly and often come with features like altitude hold and headless mode.
  • It’s important to familiarize yourself with local drone laws and regulations before flying.
  • Practice flying in an open, spacious area away from people and obstacles.
  • Consider investing in extra batteries and propellers for extended flight time and maintenance.
  • Always fly responsibly and respect the privacy of others.

Background

black mountain under white sky during daytime

Drones have revolutionized the way we capture photos and videos from the sky. They offer a unique perspective and allow us to explore places that were once out of reach. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, an aspiring filmmaker, or simply someone who wants to have fun, drones provide endless possibilities.

In recent years, the drone market has exploded with a wide range of options for beginners. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to find the right drone for your needs. That’s where we come in. We’ve tested and reviewed numerous drones to bring you the best options for beginners in 2024.

Choosing the Right Drone for Beginners

Video: Ultimate Drone Buying Guide for Total Beginners 2023.







When choosing a drone for beginners, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  1. Ease of Use: Look for a drone that is easy to fly and control, with features like altitude hold and headless mode.
  2. Flight Time: Consider the battery life of the drone and whether it offers the option to swap out batteries for extended flight time.
  3. Camera Quality: If you’re interested in aerial photography or videography, look for a drone with a high-quality camera.
  4. Range and Connectivity: Check the range of the drone and the type of connectivity it offers, such as Wi-Fi or GPS.
  5. Price: Set a budget for your drone and find one that offers the best value for your money.

By considering these factors, you can find a drone that suits your needs and skill level as a beginner.

Top 10 Best Drones for Beginners

Video: WORLD'S BEST BEGINNER 4K CAMERA DRONE UNDER $120!







Now, let’s dive into our top picks for the best drones for beginners in 2024. We’ve evaluated each drone based on design, functionality, performance, cost-effectiveness, and overall user satisfaction. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of each drone:

1. DJI Mavic Mini

Aspect Rating
Design 9
Functionality 9
Performance 9
Cost-Effectiveness 9
Overall Score 9

The DJI Mavic Mini is a compact and lightweight drone that packs a punch. It features a 12-megapixel camera capable of capturing stunning aerial photos and videos. With a flight time of up to 30 minutes and a range of up to 4 kilometers, the Mavic Mini offers impressive performance for its size. It also comes with intelligent flight modes like QuickShots and GPS-based features for enhanced stability and safety.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | DJI Official Website

Design

The DJI Mavic Mini features a sleek and compact design that makes it easy to carry and transport. It weighs just 249 grams, making it one of the lightest drones in its class. The foldable design allows you to pack it into a small bag or even your pocket, making it perfect for travel.

Functionality

Despite its small size, the Mavic Mini offers a range of advanced features that make it a joy to fly. It comes with GPS and GLONASS positioning systems for precise hovering and stable flight. The drone also has vision sensors on the bottom for accurate landing and obstacle avoidance.

Performance

The Mavic Mini delivers impressive performance for its size. It can reach speeds of up to 29 miles per hour and has a maximum flight time of 30 minutes. The drone’s 3-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable footage, even in windy conditions. The camera can capture 2.7K video at 30 frames per second and 12-megapixel photos.

Cost-Effectiveness

With its combination of features, performance, and price, the DJI Mavic Mini offers excellent value for money. It provides a high-quality flying experience and captures stunning aerial footage without breaking the bank.

2. Holy Stone HS720

Aspect Rating
Design 8
Functionality 8
Performance 8
Cost-Effectiveness 9
Overall Score 8.25

The Holy Stone HS720 is a feature-packed drone that offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability. It comes with a 4K camera that can capture stunning aerial footage and a flight time of up to 26 minutes. The HS720 also features GPS-assisted flight, intelligent flight modes, and a foldable design for easy transportation.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Holy Stone Official Website

Design

The Holy Stone HS720 features a sleek and compact design with foldable arms. This makes it easy to carry and transport, allowing you to take it on your adventures without hassle. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The HS720 offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Follow Me, Orbit Mode, and Waypoint Mode. These features allow you to capture cinematic shots with ease. The drone also has GPS-assisted flight, which provides precise positioning and allows for stable hovering.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 26 minutes and a range of up to 1 kilometer, the HS720 delivers solid performance. It can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 120 meters. The 4K camera captures stunning aerial footage, and the 2-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable shots.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Holy Stone HS720 offers great value for money, considering its features and performance. It provides a high-quality flying experience and captures impressive aerial footage at an affordable price.

3. Autel EVO II

Aspect Rating
Design 9
Functionality 9
Performance 10
Cost-Effectiveness 8
Overall Score 9

The Autel EVO II is a professional-grade drone that offers exceptional performance and versatility. It comes with a 6K camera capable of capturing stunning aerial footage and a flight time of up to 40 minutes. The EVO II also features obstacle avoidance, intelligent flight modes, and a foldable design for easy transportation.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Autel Official Website

Design

The Autel EVO II features a sleek and rugged design that exudes professionalism. It has foldable arms, allowing you to easily pack it into a backpack or carrying case. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The EVO II offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Dynamic Track, Orbit, and Waypoint. These features allow you to capture cinematic shots with ease. The drone also has obstacle avoidance sensors on the front, back, and sides, ensuring safe and smooth flights.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 40 minutes and a range of up to 9 kilometers, the EVO II delivers exceptional performance. It can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 7,000 meters. The 6K camera captures stunning aerial footage, and the 3-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable shots.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Autel EVO II is a premium drone with a higher price tag. However, considering its features and performance, it offers great value for professional photographers and filmmakers who require top-notch image quality and flight capabilities.

4. DJI Phantom 4 Pro

Aspect Rating
Design 8
Functionality 9
Performance 9
Cost-Effectiveness 7
Overall Score 8.25

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro is a flagship drone that has set the standard for aerial photography and videography. It comes with a 20-megapixel camera capable of shooting 4K video and a flight time of up to 30 minutes. The Phantom 4 Pro also features obstacle avoidance, intelligent flight modes, and a robust design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | DJI Official Website

Design

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro features a sleek and iconic design that is instantly recognizable. It has a sturdy and durable construction, making it suitable for professional use. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The Phantom 4 Pro offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including ActiveTrack, TapFly, and Draw. These features allow you to capture complex shots with ease. The drone also has obstacle avoidance sensors on the front, back, and sides, ensuring safe and smooth flights.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 30 minutes and a range of up to 7 kilometers, the Phantom 4 Pro delivers impressive performance. It can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 6,000 meters. The 20-megapixel camera captures stunning aerial footage, and the 3-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable shots.

Cost-Effectiveness

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro is a premium drone with a higher price tag. While it offers exceptional performance and image quality, it may be more suitable for professional photographers and filmmakers who require advanced features and capabilities.

5. Parrot Anafi

Aspect Rating
Design 9
Functionality 8
Performance 8
Cost-Effectiveness 9
Overall Score 8.5

The Parrot Anafi is a compact and portable drone that offers impressive performance and versatility. It comes with a 4K camera capable of capturing stunning aerial footage and a flight time of up to 25 minutes. The Anafi also features a unique 180-degree tilt gimbal, intelligent flight modes, and a foldable design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Parrot Official Website

Design

The Parrot Anafi features a sleek and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and transport. It weighs just 320 grams, making it one of the lightest drones in its class. The foldable design allows you to pack it into a small bag or even your pocket, making it perfect for travel.

Functionality

The Anafi offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Follow Me, Orbit, and Dolly Zoom. These features allow you to capture cinematic shots with ease. The drone also has GPS and GLONASS positioning systems for precise hovering and stable flight.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 25 minutes and a range of up to 4 kilometers, the Anafi delivers solid performance. It can reach speeds of up to 34 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 4,500 meters. The 4K camera captures stunning aerial footage, and the unique 180-degree tilt gimbal allows for creative perspectives.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Parrot Anafi offers excellent value for money, considering its features and performance. It provides a high-quality flying experience and captures impressive aerial footage at an affordable price.

6. Yuneec Typhoon H Pro

Aspect Rating
Design 8
Functionality 8
Performance 8
Cost-Effectiveness 8
Overall Score 8

The Yuneec Typhoon H Pro is a hexacopter drone that offers stability and versatility. It comes with a 4K camera capable of capturing stunning aerial footage and a flight time of up to 25 minutes. The Typhoon H Pro also features obstacle avoidance, retractable landing gear, and a compact design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Yuneec Official Website

Design

The Yuneec Typhoon H Pro features a sturdy and durable design that is built to withstand the elements. It has retractable landing gear, allowing for unobstructed 360-degree camera views. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The Typhoon H Pro offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Follow Me, Orbit, and Journey. These features allow you to capture cinematic shots with ease. The drone also has obstacle avoidance sensors on the front, back, and sides, ensuring safe and smooth flights.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 25 minutes and a range of up to 1.6 kilometers, the Typhoon H Pro delivers solid performance. It can reach speeds of up to 43 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 4,500 meters. The 4K camera captures stunning aerial footage, and the 3-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable shots.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Yuneec Typhoon H Pro offers good value for money, considering its features and performance. It provides a stable and reliable flying experience and captures impressive aerial footage at a reasonable price.

7. Ryze Tello

Aspect Rating
Design 7
Functionality 7
Performance 7
Cost-Effectiveness 10
Overall Score 7.75

The Ryze Tello is a small and affordable drone that is perfect for beginners. It comes with a 5-megapixel camera capable of capturing decent aerial photos and videos. The Tello also features a flight time of up to 13 minutes, intelligent flight modes, and a compact design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Ryze Official Website

Design

The Ryze Tello features a simple and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and transport. It weighs just 80 grams, making it one of the lightest drones on the market. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The Tello offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Throw & Go and 8D Flips. These features allow you to perform fun and acrobatic maneuvers with ease. The drone also has vision sensors on the bottom for accurate landing and obstacle avoidance.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 13 minutes and a range of up to 100 meters, the Tello delivers decent performance. It can reach speeds of up to 17 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 10 meters. The 5-megapixel camera captures decent aerial footage, considering its price range.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Ryze Tello offers excellent value for money, considering its features and affordability. It provides a fun and easy flying experience at a budget-friendly price.

8. Potensic D88

Aspect Rating
Design 7
Functionality 7
Performance 7
Cost-Effectiveness 9
Overall Score 7.5

The Potensic D88 is a budget-friendly drone that offers decent performance and features. It comes with a 2K camera capable of capturing decent aerial footage and a flight time of up to 20 minutes. The D88 also features GPS-assisted flight, intelligent flight modes, and a foldable design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Potensic Official Website

Design

The Potensic D88 features a simple and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and transport. It has foldable arms, allowing you to easily pack it into a backpack or carrying case. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The D88 offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Follow Me and Waypoint. These features allow you to capture cinematic shots with ease. The drone also has GPS-assisted flight, which provides precise positioning and allows for stable hovering.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 20 minutes and a range of up to 500 meters, the D88 delivers decent performance. It can reach speeds of up to 36 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 120 meters. The 2K camera captures decent aerial footage, considering its price range.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Potensic D88 offers great value for money, considering its features and affordability. It provides a decent flying experience and captures decent aerial footage at a budget-friendly price.

9. Hubsan X4 H107C

Aspect Rating
Design 6
Functionality 6
Performance 6
Cost-Effectiveness 10
Overall Score 7

The Hubsan X4 H107C is a small and affordable drone that is perfect for beginners and kids. It comes with a 720p camera capable of capturing decent aerial photos and videos. The X4 H107C also features a flight time of up to 7 minutes, LED lights, and a compact design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Hubsan Official Website

Design

The Hubsan X4 H107C features a simple and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and transport. It weighs just 37 grams, making it one of the lightest drones on the market. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Functionality

The X4 H107C offers basic flight controls and maneuvers, making it suitable for beginners and kids. It can perform flips and rolls with ease, adding a fun element to your flying experience. The drone also has LED lights for improved visibility and orientation.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 7 minutes and a range of up to 100 meters, the X4 H107C delivers basic performance. It can reach speeds of up to 11 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 30 meters. The 720p camera captures decent aerial footage, considering its price range.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Hubsan X4 H107C offers excellent value for money, considering its features and affordability. It provides a fun and easy flying experience at a budget-friendly price, making it a great option for beginners and kids.

10. Blade Nano QX RTF

Aspect Rating
Design 6
Functionality 6
Performance 6
Cost-Effectiveness 10
Overall Score 7

The Blade Nano QX RTF is a small and affordable drone that is perfect for beginners and indoor flying. It comes with a basic camera for capturing aerial photos and videos. The Nano QX RTF also features a flight time of up to 7 minutes, stability mode, and a compact design.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Blade Official Website

Design

The Blade Nano QX RTF features a simple and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry and transport. It weighs just 18 grams, making it one of the lightest drones on the market. The drone also comes with LED lights for improved visibility during indoor flights.

Functionality

The Nano QX RTF offers basic flight controls and stability mode, making it suitable for beginners and indoor flying. It can perform flips and rolls with ease, adding a fun element to your flying experience. The drone also has LED lights for improved visibility and orientation.

Performance

With a flight time of up to 7 minutes and a range of up to 30 meters, the Nano QX RTF delivers basic performance. It can reach speeds of up to 8 miles per hour and has a maximum altitude of 30 meters. The basic camera captures simple aerial footage, suitable for beginners.

Cost-Effectiveness

The Blade Nano QX RTF offers excellent value for money, considering its features and affordability. It provides a fun and easy flying experience at a budget-friendly price, making it a great option for beginners and indoor flying.

FAQ

aerial photography of person standing on dock beside sea at daytime

What is the best drone to buy for beginners?

The best drone for beginners depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, based on our research and testing, we recommend the DJI Mavic Mini as the top choice for beginners. It offers a perfect balance of ease of use, affordability, and features, making it suitable for beginners of all ages.

Read more about “The Ultimate Guide to the Best Drones for Beginners in 2023 …”

How much should a beginner spend on a drone?

The amount you should spend on a drone as a beginner depends on your budget and how serious you are about flying. Entry-level drones can range from $50 to $300, while more advanced models can cost upwards of $1,000. We recommend setting a budget that you’re comfortable with and finding a drone that offers the best value for your money.

Read more about “How to Choose the Best Drone for You …”

What is the best drone without a license?

The best drone without a license depends on the weight and capabilities of the drone. In the United States, drones weighing less than 250 grams do not require registration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Based on this weight limit, the DJI Mavic Mini is a great option for beginners who want to fly without the need for a license.

Read more about “Best Drone with Camera for Adults …”

What’s the best drone a civilian can buy?

As a civilian, you have a wide range of options when it comes to drones. The best drone for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting with a drone like the DJI Mavic Mini or the Holy Stone HS720. These drones offer a perfect balance of ease of use, affordability, and features, making them suitable for beginners and recreational use.

Conclusion

white and red DJI quadcopter drone

After extensive research and testing, we’ve determined that the DJI Mavic Mini is the best drone for beginners in 2024. It offers a perfect balance of ease of use, affordability, and features, making it suitable for beginners of all ages. With its compact design, impressive flight time, and high-quality camera, the Mavic Mini is a great choice for those looking to explore the world of drones.

So, whether you’re interested in aerial photography, racing, or just having fun, the DJI Mavic Mini is the perfect companion to take your flying adventures to new heights. Get ready to soar and capture stunning aerial footage with confidence!

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | DJI Official Website

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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