One Powerful Ecosystem. Endless Possibilities. Across the many paths and platforms of their digital journeys, brands…
The Best Drones for Photos and Videos
No matter what, drones are amazing, regardless of whether you have a good reason to purchase one. Some of the designs we showcase here are glorified tech toys, but others can be used in both small and large imaging and cinematic applications. Flying cameras have come a long way in a short time, so you might be able to use one on your next project. Modern copters now offer video quality and stabilization that puts earlier models to shame.
The problem is: You get what you pay for. It will cost you anywhere from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars to buy an aerial video system that can capture spectacular footage. Since drones are such pricey items, it pays to do your research before purchasing one.
How To Buy a Drone
Our insurance coverage is centered around imaging and video, not racing, industrial, or agricultural aircraft. You can use the drones we assess right out of the box because they are ready-to-fly versions. We have compiled a list of the best drones from Amazon based on their pricing (smallest to largest).
1. Ryze Tello
The Ryze Tello is more than just a tool for making movies. MIT’s Scratch coding platform can be used to control this small quadcopter, like many others. By connecting the Tello to a laptop running Scratch, kids can learn coding basics.
2. Parrot Anafi
We like the Parrot Anafi quite a bit for drone pilots who want to pack light, despite its need for FAA registration. With its long, skinny form factor, the Anafi fits easily into a rucksack, and you can charge it using the same USB-C adapter that you use for your smartphone. In addition to 4K HDR video, the camera has a gimbal that allows some upward tilting.
3. DJI Mini 2
Under $500, the DJI Mini 2 is the best drone you can buy. The drone features a stabilized, three-axis gimbal 4K video camera, as well as GPS and Find My Drone functionality. Despite its 249g takeoff weight, it can be flown without FAA registration—you just need to pass an online knowledge test. In addition to the near half-hour flight time, we wish DJI had implemented obstacle detection.
4. DJI Mini 3 Pro
There is no doubt that the DJI Mini 3 Pro is the most capable ultralight drone on the market today. Despite its 249g takeoff weight (with a 34-minute battery), creators who don’t mind forms and fees can add an extended-life battery to extend flight time beyond 45 minutes. Among the features are three-way obstacle sensors, automated flight modes, and 4K60 video. APAS is especially useful for low-to-the-ground applications, as it can navigate complex spaces all by itself.
5. DJI Air 2S
With the DJI Air 2S, you get much better 20MP stills than you can get from the DJI Mini-series drones with oversized Type 1 sensors. Aside from 5.4K30 and 4K60 video with HDR, flat, or standard profiles, it can also capture photos in Raw or JPG format. Among DJI’s strong safety features are GPS location, obstacle sensors, ADS-B for warnings of nearby aircraft, and 30-minute battery life.
6. DJI Avata
DJI Avata is an FPV drone, one that uses VR goggles to view the camera view, not a smartphone screen. The sport mode comes with a 30mph speed limit, a motion-sensitive remote, and a nose-mounted camera. It can also fly low-to-the-ground thanks to downward-facing sensors and built-in prop guards. For Cinewhoop-style long takes, you can also slow down and take your time to channel your inner Scorsese and Welles.
7. Autel Evo Lite+
In addition to a Type 1 sensor, the Autel Evo Lite+ has a variable aperture to reduce incoming light without ND filters. It supports three-way obstacle sensors to prevent midair accidents and can fly for around 40 minutes on a full battery.
8. DJI Mavic 3
Any foldable drone camera can’t match the quality of the DJI Mavic 3. Featuring a big Four Thirds format sensor with a Hasselblad color profile, this camera produces excellent video and stills straight from the camera. An all-around obstacle sensor, an integrated GPS, and a flight time of more than forty minutes allow the drone to fly around obstructions safely. The Cine version ($4,999) adds 1TB SSD storage and ProRes 422 video.
More to Explore
