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Drone Technology: What’s Next for Major Drone Companies?

June 9, 2020 By FPV Drone Reviewers Leave a Comment

Are you an avid drone enthusiast, always curious regarding the latest trends and developments in the industry?

Have you ever wondered what the future has in store for unmanned aerial vehicles as drone technology makes more advances than ever before?

The drone market is fascinating to be sure, steeped in an industry that prides itself on innovative, multi-functional technology. For a detailed look at the drone market of today, drone technology trends, and the future outlook of the industry, keep reading.


drone hovering above a person's hand

Drone Market Overview

Key Facts 

Once upon a time, drone technology was misunderstood by the masses, who imagined aerial vehicles constantly swarming about as an invasion of privacy. Not only that, but both commercial and recreational drone pilots had expectations for drone usage above and beyond the realm of reality. This created a host of frustrated users who did not fully understand if what they were demanding from their drones was possible or not.

The good thing is, this conflict has died down considerably, making it much easier to look at the drone market and determine where it is going. One major development in the drone market is significant improvements in software. Key market players have invested in advanced software too.

Drone companies recognized that it was not just the drones that appealed to pilots, but their innate function to harvest data for commercial and recreational purposes. As a result, there has been a substantial rise in strategic partnerships in the market, as bare bones drone hardware does not meet the mark for most users. Drone companies identified this gap and bridged it by working alongside other industry players to create comprehensive drone offerings.

Major Manufacturers

Quite a few mergers and acquisitions have taken place to meet the demands of drone technology and form these strategic partnerships. Companies like Agribotix, PrecisionHawk, and 3DR are not focusing on hardware any longer and instead have moved on to software.

This is partly because DJI has becoming the leader in drone hardware. Not only that, but 3DR openly admitted that their competitor’s pricing options was the primary factor behind their $100 million hardware collapse.

Specialization has been a huge trend among manufacturers in areas like safety and security, delivery systems, and agriculture. As manufacturers carve out their own niche, they are better able to beat the competition with advanced offerings like lighter-than-air, VTOL fixed-wing, and fixed-wing capabilities.

The Autonomous Air Taxi industry has made tremendous strides, particularly as there is substantial monetary backing in this sector. Major manufacturers are vying for the best hardware and top spot. Two key examples of this are Boeing’s acquisition of Aurora Flight and Geely’s acquisition of Terrafugia.

Other companies have altered their game plan from one type of drone to another, such as Ehang’s transition from recreational drones to Autonomous Air Taxis. In both the recreational market, selfie drones and drone racing events are still the main attraction.

Quite a few manufacturers have found it difficult to keep up with user demands. Parrot found it difficult to meet with the changing times, so Bebop became a leader in commercial drone usage. Lily also did not meet the mark, bringing Mota Group to the forefront of the consumer market. Even DreamQii was forced to send out refunds when their PlexiDrone failed users.

Software Changes and Developments 

person using drone controller

Drone technology has experienced significant software changes and developments as of late. Inspection software has come to the forefront with features like pattern recognition. The strategic partnerships that have been created by leading companies create a cumulative solution to drone user needs rather than just elements of the puzzle.

API’s and other techniques that let drone data integrate into established systems has been a huge stride for the industry and is growing all the time. Aerial Data Providers have brought aerial acquired data to new heights with satellite controlled virtual platforms.

Strategic partnerships to enhance software development approaches have crossed national and international borders. For instance, Airmap and Skyward were the first to offer LAANC accreditation.

Service Operations 

Service operations in drone technology have also come a long way. Zipline and Matternet are just a handful of the numerous companies using drones to transport medical supplies throughout Europe and Africa. Drone warehousing has become the latest development on the scene.

Drone entertainment is another service that has reached untold popularity and demand, both for indoor and outdoor enjoyment.

Drone Technology Trends

Co-Piloting Functionalities 

Drone technology is advancing ever onward towards the future, but there are key trends that bear mentioning for any aerial vehicle enthusiast. Co-piloting functionalities have become the innovative solution for drone operation, making flight time seamless and efficient.

Co-piloting capabilities have put software in the driver’s seat rather than drone users themselves. This makes filming or any other drone use much easier because you do not have to put all your focus on flying the drone.

There are a couple different co-pilot systems in the works that have been reported to take this functionality to the next level, where you do not have to think about flying the drone at all. This allows you more room to focus on any other aspect of drone usage you require.

Drone Camera Improvements 

One major drone technology trend is improvements to drone camera software. The goal is to create software with a built-in camera that identifies surrounding obstacles or objects that could impede or damage the drone while in operation.

This would be a step up from current drones that have some sensory capabilities, but only in a very limited capacity. Many drone manufacturers are interesting in making drones more autonomous and independent from users by enhancing this camera functionality.

New Technological Advances 

The small Panoptes Ebumper 4 drone that uses sonar to identify outside hazards and obstacles can now circumvent these impediments altogether, all without involving the pilot. Another drone technology update in the works is a drone guiding system using infra-red sensors and receivers. Supposedly, it would let the drone view its environment and avoid any obstacles of its own volition, provided it was not being operated at too high a speed.
guy using vr goggles to watch drone
One exciting drone technology improvement is current manufacturers’ efforts to change the way pilots can use the drone camera while the aerial vehicle is in flight. If this technology makes it all the way, you will have plenty of other options besides adjusting your camera face or changing gimbal settings.

Companies enhancing their drone technology are working to make every aspect of drone operation more streamlined and efficient for users. They want to improve lighting, lens settings, and filters, along with recording and bitrate, all with a few calibrations on your controller or tablet.

Additional Hardware Components 

A common gripe for drone pilots is the massive hardware restrictions placed on them. Things like power issues and insufficient battery life are a few of the biggest ones, but there are plenty others.

The best drone models on the market still feature drone technology that only allows 20 to 25 minutes of flight for every battery. So, whenever you take your drone out, you are probably used to bringing at least one additional charged battery, if not more. If you take videos and images on your drone, the battery life is drained much faster.

Well, drone companies are trying to change things up with various battery solutions. They are also trying to manufacturer a large battery with a longer rate of usage. One of the most recent developments on this front in drone technology was Sunlight Photonic’s announcement they would sell a new, solar powered drone.

The modding sector has helped make improvements with battery and power issues, creating various drone shortcuts for underpowered vehicles that could lengthen the battery by anywhere from 70 to 80 percent.

Future Outlook

Hobby Drones

What does the future look like for drones? With the latest developments in drone technology, hobby drones are racing to the front of the line. There are over 1.1 million hobby drones in the USA alone, while the Federal Aviation Administration expects the number will increase to 2.4 million by the year 2022.

The one major uncertainty is whether pilots will keep being enthused about the hobby. Researchers have projected that the range of interested pilots could be as low as 2 million or as inflated as 3.2 million, but time will tell how accurate those numbers really are.

Bestseller No. 1
DEERC D15 GPS Drone with 4K UHD EIS Camera, Anti-Shake, 5G FPV Live...
DEERC D15 GPS Drone with 4K UHD EIS Camera, Anti-Shake, 5G FPV Live...
  • Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS): The newest technology for image stabilization, EIS effectively minimizes the...
  • 4K UHD Camera 5G FPV : 4K Ultra HD image (3840×2160p) with stunning clarity, deep contrast and vivid color, 130°...
  • Smart and Safe Flight: Accurately GPS Positioning and Auto Return Function (RTH) ensure safety flight. D15 will...
$199.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2
Holy Stone HS720E 4K EIS Drone with UHD Camera for Adults, Easy GPS...
Holy Stone HS720E 4K EIS Drone with UHD Camera for Adults, Easy GPS...
  • 4K EIS Anti-Shake Camera with Sony Sensor: The EIS (Electric Image Stabilization) technology reduces blurring and...
  • Easy to Use: With air optical flow & air pressure altitude control system, the drone can hover stably both indoor and...
  • Advanced Flight Modes: The intelligent flight modes enable the drone to fly automatically and free your hands and minds...
$339.99
Buy on Amazon

Commercial Drones 

With commercial drones and advances in drone technology, there are upwards of 80,000 certified remote pilots. By 2022, the Federal Aviation Administration projects that there will be 301,000 commercial pilots in the sky.

With such a jump in numbers, there will be a greater demand for larger, better developed aerial vehicles with fewer inconsistencies and more features like complete co-piloting and advanced camera sensory technology. That said, the Federal Aviation Administration thinks there will be as few as 452,000 and as many as 718,000 registered drones by 2022.

Bestseller No. 1
Precision Farming From Above: How Commercial Drone Systems are Helping...
Precision Farming From Above: How Commercial Drone Systems are Helping...
  • Jupp, Louise (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 158 Pages - 08/30/2018 (Publication Date) - Writing Matters Publishing (Publisher)
$15.00
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2
Drone FAA 107 License Study Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Pass...
Drone FAA 107 License Study Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Pass...
  • Darnall, Damon (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 124 Pages - 09/07/2018 (Publication Date) - CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (Publisher)
$29.99
Buy on Amazon

Conclusion

two woman sitting on sand while flying a drone

Drone technology is showing us every day that the potential for advancements and astounding features is limitless. With more and more drones taking to the sky, drone companies will have to work hard to continue to meet user demands. However, with drone technology like enhanced battery life, pilot-independent obstacle avoidance, and infrared sensors coming to the forefront, they are more than up to the challenge.

Filed Under: Drones, Guides Tagged With: Drone, drone industry, types of drones

Hexacopter Drones – What Are The Edge Of This Drone From Other Drone Brands?

May 1, 2020 By FPV Drone Reviewers Leave a Comment

hexacopter

A lot has been said about drones, and while much of it is true, it has barely scratched the surface when it comes to expounding on the potential benefits and technological advancements.

For instance, the hexacopter was born out of efforts to improve stability and increase the payload. It is also progressively taking over the drone market with its neat and versatile features.

By looking at the number of options in the market, it is quite clear that choosing a hexacopter is not an easy task. For example, some brands may skimp on quality in favor of a low price. Further, with other brands, you could end up with an overpriced item.

In this review, we look at different types of hexacopter drones to make it easy for you to choose the best.

drone

 Hexacopter ​​​​​Drones FAQs

It is hard to find information that speaks to you when looking for the best hexacopter. Sometimes all you need is a simple guide and not a degree in drones. Here are some frequently asked questions, minus the tech jargon, to break down the essential bits.

1. What Is a Hexacopter?

In the eyes of many people, there is not much difference in drones. However, there are stark differences in how they work. The most common drone is the quadcopter, running on 4 propellers. On the other hand, a hexacopter drone runs on 6 propellers.

2. What Does a Hexacopter Do?

Drones have become extremely useful in various fields. They have been used to make blockbuster movies and scout around hostile grounds. However, a hexacopter can also be used for recreational sports.

3. How Does a Hexacopter Work?

Hexacopters consist of speed controllers, a flight controller, a power distribution board, a power source, and motor. The flight controller controls every activity of the drone. Furthermore, other sensors are available to ensure that the drone remains stable while the electronic speed controllers control the spinning of the motors.

4. Where Can You Buy it/Them?

You can find a hexacopter that falls within your budget from an online store like Amazon.

5. How Do I Pick the Right One?

Not only should the price be right, but it should also look right, fly right, and meet your needs. If you are new to flying, do you need all those features? And can you afford them? If you are a professional, you need to know whether the features will help you deliver your best work.

How We Reviewed

Different aspects control how a hexacopter performs. This review focused on some of the elements that distinguish different types of hexacopter brands such as the price, flight duration, and overall features. Then, we also looked at the pros and cons of each product. That was all to ensure that you find it simple to make an informed decision.

Overall Price Range of This Product (and Similar Products)

A hexacopter with a low price will always lack some of the most impressive features. The price of premium models is very costly. So, a higher price, assures you a drone featuring the latest flying technologies and quality construction.

What We Reviewed

Here is a list of the best hexacopter drones we reviewed.

Preview Product Price
Top Race Hexacopter Drone UFO 4 Channel 5 inch Quadcopter 2.4GHz... Top Race Hexacopter Drone UFO 4 Channel 5 inch Quadcopter 2.4GHz... $28.99 Buy on Amazon
WLtoys V323 2.4GHz 4CH 6 Axis Large Gyro RC Quadcopter Drone WLtoys V323 2.4GHz 4CH 6 Axis Large Gyro RC Quadcopter Drone Buy on Amazon
MJX X600 X-SERIES [RX Aerio Exclusive] 2.4GHz 4 Channel 6 Axis RC... MJX X600 X-SERIES [RX Aerio Exclusive] 2.4GHz 4 Channel 6 Axis RC... Buy on Amazon
UDI RC U845 Voyager UFO RC Drone with 720P HD Camera RC Quadcopter for... UDI RC U845 Voyager UFO RC Drone with 720P HD Camera RC Quadcopter for... Buy on Amazon
MJX X800 2.4G RC Quadcopter Drone Hexacopter 4 Channel 6 Axis with 3D... MJX X800 2.4G RC Quadcopter Drone Hexacopter 4 Channel 6 Axis with 3D... Buy on Amazon
Walkera TALI H500 RTF1 FPV RC Drone Hexacopter with G-3D Brushless... Walkera TALI H500 RTF1 FPV RC Drone Hexacopter with G-3D Brushless... $1,103.97 Buy on Amazon
DJI Spreading Wings S900 Professional Hexacopter with DJI A2 Flight... DJI Spreading Wings S900 Professional Hexacopter with DJI A2 Flight... Buy on Amazon
DJI Matrice 600 Pro Hexacopter with Remote Controller DJI Matrice 600 Pro Hexacopter with Remote Controller $6,599.00 Buy on Amazon
YUNEEC YUNH920US Drone Tornado H920 Hexa-Copter with ST24 Transmitter,... YUNEEC YUNH920US Drone Tornado H920 Hexa-Copter with ST24 Transmitter,... $1,399.99 Buy on Amazon
Yuneec Typhoon H Pro Bundle - Ultra High Definition 4K Collision... Yuneec Typhoon H Pro Bundle - Ultra High Definition 4K Collision... Buy on Amazon

Top Race Hexacopter Drone UFO 4

Top Race Hexacopter Drone UFO 4 Channel 5 inch Quadcopter 2.4GHz...
Top Race Hexacopter Drone UFO 4 Channel 5 inch Quadcopter 2.4GHz...
  • Top Race 4 Channel Mini Drone Hexacopter UFO 5 Inch Quadcopter 2.4GHz 6-Axis Gyro TR-MQ6
  • Unique Quadcopter Design; 6 Separate Motors, Extremely Durable with Strong Red and Green Led Lights for Indoor and...
  • Full Movement: Ascend/Descend, Forward/Backward, Left/Right Rotation, Left/Right Drifting, Hovering. 3D tumbling action
$28.99
Buy on Amazon

Features

The Top Race hexacopter is one of the cheapest drones that you will find. It is uniquely designed to look like an object from outer space. The only thing that the drone can do beyond the ordinary is the 3D flip. It charges from a USB port and comes with a non-detachable battery.

Pros

  • No assembly needed
  • Great for kids and beginners
  • Quick charge times
  • Extremely affordable

Cons

  • Very basic design
  • Some parts are too flimsy

Wltoys Gyro RC Quadcopter Drone

WLtoys V323 2.4GHz 4CH 6 Axis Large Gyro RC Quadcopter Drone
WLtoys V323 2.4GHz 4CH 6 Axis Large Gyro RC Quadcopter Drone
Buy on Amazon

Features

The Wltoys V323 is a great option for anyone learning the basics of flying a camera drone.  The included camera is a little underwhelming, but you can switch it with a better one. You will find all the parts already put together so you can fly your drone immediately.

The design can make it hard to differentiate the front from the back while in flight. However, switching on an LED light will guide you in the dark.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Good flight stability
  • Guiding lights in low light situations
  • Removable camera
  • Great stabilization

Cons

  • The image quality on the camera is bad
  • No gimbal included
  • Not suited for pro flyers

MJX X600 X-SERIES RC Remote Control Hexacopter

MJX X600 X-SERIES [RX Aerio Exclusive] 2.4GHz 4 Channel 6 Axis RC...
MJX X600 X-SERIES [RX Aerio Exclusive] 2.4GHz 4 Channel 6 Axis RC...
  • Product size: 38.5*42.5*6cm. Charging time is about 90-120 minutes while flight duration is about 7-9 minutes.
  • 4 channels function provide stable flying and easy operation.
  • 6-axis gyro with posture control - Integrated design guarantee the precise positioning of the aircraft. Strong wind and...
Buy on Amazon

Features

The X600 will let you do a few flying tricks such as the round flip. For a low budget drone, you should not be surprised to find a few advanced features like the return home button. It also includes the headless mode to help with orientation. The remote control will give you 125 meters of coverage.

It is an excellent choice for those who are still trying to figure out what to do with a drone. The controller comes with easy-to-use controls.

Pros

  • Ideal for beginners
  • Removable battery
  • Budget price

Cons

  • No camera included
  • Limited flying time

UDI RC U845 Voyager UFO RC Drone

UDI RC U845 Voyager UFO RC Drone with 720P HD Camera RC Quadcopter for...
UDI RC U845 Voyager UFO RC Drone with 720P HD Camera RC Quadcopter for...
  • 720P HD Camera - Equipped with 2MP HD camera that takes high quality photos and videos. Video DPI is 1280x720P/30FPS and...
  • UFO Design - Adopts UFO design which also keep performs as highly as other drones, offers more protection to the blades...
  • Headless Mode - In headless mode, there is no need to worry about the directions of the drone during flight, makes the...
Buy on Amazon

Features

The U845 Voyager is probably the only real UFO drone going by the flying saucer design. It is equipped with 6 propellers for extra stability. It comes with an HD camera rated at 720 pixels and WiFi connectivity for image transmission.

The price is a good steal considering some of the cool features like the camera, return home function, and the headless mode. Newbies will love the drone while professionals can use it as an emergency substitute.

Pros

  • Works with mobile apps
  • HD camera included
  • Affordably priced
  • Stylish design

Cons

  • Limited transmission range
  • Very long charging period

MJX X800 Quadcopter Drone Hexacopter

MJX X800 2.4G RC Quadcopter Drone Hexacopter 4 Channel 6 Axis with 3D...
MJX X800 2.4G RC Quadcopter Drone Hexacopter 4 Channel 6 Axis with 3D...
Buy on Amazon

Features

The X800 can do 3D stunts, run at three different speeds, and respond to orientation. The controller uses radio technology to communicate with the drone at the 2.4 GHz frequency. It is not built for heavy lifting even though you can mount a small WiFi camera.  The toy-like controls make it easy to operate.

Pros

  • Long-range control
  • LED guide lights
  • Beginner’s gravity mode assistance
  • Lightweight and portable

Cons

  • Limited controls
  • The small size limits outdoor use

Walkera H500 Carbon Edition Ready to Fly Hexacopter

Walkera TALI H500 RTF1 FPV RC Drone Hexacopter with G-3D Brushless...
Walkera TALI H500 RTF1 FPV RC Drone Hexacopter with G-3D Brushless...
  • Includes DevoF12E FPV Transmitter
  • Pro Level 3 Axis Gimbal w/iLook+ HD Camera
  • GPS Position Hold
$1,103.97
Buy on Amazon

Features

The H500 from Walkera is a solid entry-level hexacopter for anyone venturing into aerial photography and video. A brushless gimbal helps to provide stability during the shooting and recording. It includes a standard iLook camera for clear image and video shots. The H500 drone is built for heaving lifting; the drone can fly a maximum of 25 minutes when fully loaded.

It is an excellent choice for all skill levels and a nice alternative for professionals with a tight budget.

Pros

  • It comes ready to fly
  • Great flight duration
  • Amazing aerial stability
  • Beautiful design

Cons

  • Expensive batteries
  • Better alternatives available at a lower price

DJI Spreading Wings S900 Professional Hexacopter

DJI Spreading Wings S900 Professional Hexacopter with DJI A2 Flight...
DJI Spreading Wings S900 Professional Hexacopter with DJI A2 Flight...
  • This version bundles the S900 air frame with the A2 flight controller and your choice of Z15 Gimbals.
  • Lightweight materials such as a sturdy carbon fiber frame make flights more enjoyable by lasting longer
  • New and improved motors makes for a much more reliable flight. Spark proof plug will prevent short circuits when you...
Buy on Amazon

Features

The S900 follows an impressive line of professional-grade drones from DJI. It can easily hold 10 lbs of recording equipment. You can pack more accessories on the drone by removing the centerboard at the top.  DJI’s are always worth looking into because of enhanced tech like enhanced power distribution to create a more reliable flight.

DJI S900 is suitable for pro and advanced drone users. With such astonishing features, you will not be surprised to find another DJI on our shortlist.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Can use third-party cameras
  • Folding arms and landing gear
  • Great flight duration with a heavy load

Cons

  • It is very pricey
  • Not ideal for new users

DJI Matrice 600 Pro Hexacopter

DJI Matrice 600 Pro Hexacopter with Remote Controller
DJI Matrice 600 Pro Hexacopter with Remote Controller
  • DJI Matrice 600 Pro Hexacopter - Aircraft Body (with Arm Sleeves) - 2x Landing Gear Leg - 2x Landing Skid - 2x Spring -...
  • Aircraft: Diagonal Wheelbase: 1133mm (44.61")
  • Aircraft: Max Takeoff Weight Recommended: 15.5kg (34.17lbs)
$6,599.00
Buy on Amazon

Features

The DJI Matrice 600 is a heavy lifter that can handle a maximum payload of 13 lbs on a flight.  The tech on this beast is on a completely new level; the flight controls can be programmed to run different functions such as live video streaming and mapping survey. The transmission technology allows it to relay high-resolution video at incredible speeds.

Pros

  • Great flight performance
  • Smart power management
  • Multiple camera choices
  • It can carry heavy loads

Cons

  • Very restrictive pricing
  • Too technical for average users

YUNEEC YUNH920US Drone Tornado H920 Hexa-Copter

YUNEEC YUNH920US Drone Tornado H920 Hexa-Copter with ST24 Transmitter,...
YUNEEC YUNH920US Drone Tornado H920 Hexa-Copter with ST24 Transmitter,...
  • Aerial Shooting with Panasonic GH4
  • Carbon Fiber Frame
  • Retractable Landing Gear
$1,399.99
Buy on Amazon

Features

The Tornado H920 comes in a handy package weighing less than 11 lbs. Even with that, the drone can do some heavy lifting like carrying a professional-grade camera for aerial shooting. It is equipped with a gimbal to hold and stabilize the camera while in flight. The carbon fiber used on the body makes it rigid and stylish.

The drone includes some smart features such as a return home button, an orbit mode, and different shooting options for the camera. We would not recommend this drone if you are a newbie unless you do not mind paying a premium for some high-end features.

Pros

  • Powerful drone for photography and videography
  • Folds to compact travel size
  • High-quality design and attractive body
  • Smart GPS function

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Not suitable for inexperienced users

Yuneec Typhoon H Pro Bundle

Yuneec Typhoon H Pro Bundle - Ultra High Definition 4K Collision...
Yuneec Typhoon H Pro Bundle - Ultra High Definition 4K Collision...
  • READY OUT OF THE BOX - Comes with the new ST16 Pro all-in-one controller (no need for a separate phone / tablet),...
  • SAFE TO FLY WITH BUILT-IN COLLISION AVOIDANCE - FAA compliant no-fly zone, 6 rotor safety with 5 rotor fail-safe, and...
  • EASY TO FLY - GPS stabilized flight control, with 8 smart flight modes, automatic return to home, auto takeoff and auto...
Buy on Amazon

Features

Equipped with a camera that can take high-resolution images, this is one of the best hexacopters for video and photography. You can watch everything from the 7-inch screen on the ST16 controller pad. It comes with in-built sensors that make it avoid flying into obstacles. The batter offers around 25 minutes of flight time.

Both newbies and experts can find it easy to use this drone since it comes in a ready-to-fly package. If you are a professional photographer, you will love the camera for it can take images in JPEG and RAW formats.

Pros

  • Includes high-resolution camera
  • Inbuilt flying sensors
  • Easy to use
  • An integrated display on the controller
  • Folds into a portable size

Cons

  • Sensors not effective at high speeds
  • The battery takes too long to charge

The Verdict

As a newbie, you do not have to go for the most advanced hexacopter on the list. A basic model will help with practice and give you a better idea of what features to look out for when you upgrade. We would make the U845 Voyager our choice for beginners. It is user-friendly, and the price resonates with the existing features.

Don’t forget to look into registration and license needs for your pick.

The Yuneec Typhoon H Pro is the best hexacopter on our list. It is lightweight, portable, and user-friendly. You will also get some neat features to help you with your hobbies or professional work. It gets our top marks for quality, value, and versatility.

Filed Under: Best Of

Holy Stone F181w Review

March 3, 2020 By FPV Drone Reviewers Leave a Comment

drone holy stone

Are you looking for a budget-friendly FPV drone that is easy to use and has good performance? If you are looking for an FPV drone that is inexpensive but doesn’t lack any features the Holy Stone F181W is a great choice. We compare 4 drones in our Holy Stone F181w Review below so you can make an informed choice.

Comparison Table

Preview Product Price
Holy Stone F181W 1080P Wifi FPV Drone with Wide-Angle HD Camera Live... Holy Stone F181W 1080P Wifi FPV Drone with Wide-Angle HD Camera Live... $72.99 Buy on Amazon
DJI Phantom 3 Standard Quadcopter Drone with 2.7K HD Video Camera DJI Phantom 3 Standard Quadcopter Drone with 2.7K HD Video Camera $519.95 Buy on Amazon
Holy Stone 2K GPS FPV RC Drone HS100 with HD Camera Live Video and GPS... Holy Stone 2K GPS FPV RC Drone HS100 with HD Camera Live Video and GPS... $139.99 Buy on Amazon

What Is a Holy Stone F181W?

The Holy Stone F181W drone is an entry-level drone that offers a good value for beginners and enthusiasts alike. The drone is lightweight and fairly powerful. It has a good 720P camera with an impressive 120-degree field of view. The drone includes 2 batteries and provides up to 10 minutes of flight time each.

Holy Stone F181W Review

We reviewed the Holy Stone F181W drone and compared it to 3 other drones of various price points. The Holy Stone F181W drone has many features beginners will appreciate like one-button controls. The 720P 120-degree wide-view camera and FPV controls from the smartphone app via Wi-Fi will impress enthusiasts.

Product Specs

Beginner Friendly

The Holy Stone F181W drone is easy for beginners to use, offering smartphone app compatible control, altitude hold, and one-button return to home and 360-degree flips. The drone comes fully assembled. Headless mode is offered in the drone for easy control from the pilot’s perspective.

High-Quality Camera

The camera in the Holy Stone F181W drone is 720P for excellent pictures and film and has a 120-degree viewing angle for wide shots of the landscape; using the altitude hold, you can take stable shots.

Lightweight

The Holy Stone F181W drone is incredibly light at only 5-ounces, which makes it effortless to transport. The drone includes 2 batteries so you can get plenty of footage and flight time.

How It Compares

We picked a few similar products available on the market to see how they compare.

  • DJI Phantom 3 Standard Quadcopter Drone
  • Goolsky CHEERSON CX-23
  • Holy Stone GPS FPV RC Drone HS100

Holy Stone F181W

Holy Stone F181W 1080P Wifi FPV Drone with Wide-Angle HD Camera Live...
Holy Stone F181W 1080P Wifi FPV Drone with Wide-Angle HD Camera Live...
  • 1080P 120° FOV HD Wifi Camera: Equipped with the newest adjustable 1080P 120° Wide-angle HD Wifi Camera, which allows...
  • FPV Real-Time Transmission: With the built-in WiFi module, you can see exactly what your camera sees with a live video...
  • Automatic Altitude Hold: Powerful air pressure altitude hold function allows you to release the throttle stick and the...
$72.99
Buy on Amazon

Ease of Use

The Holy Stone F181W Drone is easy enough for beginners to quickly learn to use. The drone can be controlled from the controller or app and has a headless flight mode, so the drone follows all movements from the pilot’s point of view rather than the drone’s point of view. Releasing the control stick will cause the drone to hold its altitude, so you can easily stop to take photos.

Performance

The six-axis gyroscope in the Holy Stone F181W Drone allows for high performance 360 flips with one button. The drone will also return to home with one button in headless mode.

Design and Durability

The Holy Stone F181W Drone is lightweight and the motor and battery are powerful. The drone includes an extra battery for twice the flight time. The battery flight time is 7 to 10 minutes each. The Holy Stone has a 720P camera with a wide field of view. The Holy Stone is ready to fly out of the box, as it comes fully assembled.

Pros

  • Includes 2 batteries
  • Simple for beginners to use
  • The wide-angle camera takes dramatic shots

Cons

  • The drone can overheat easily
  • Not well equipped for windy flights

DJI Phantom 3 Standard Quadcopter Drone

DJI Phantom 3 Standard Quadcopter Drone with 2.7K HD Video Camera
DJI Phantom 3 Standard Quadcopter Drone with 2.7K HD Video Camera
  • Refer the user manual and videos on this page for troubleshooting.Enjoy the view: A live video feed gives you a 720p HD...
  • View a live image streamed from the drone up to a half mile away on the DJI Go app using your mobile phone or tablet
  • GPS assisted flight features let you concentrate on getting great images while the drone helps you fly safely. You can...
$519.95
Buy on Amazon

GPS

The DJI Phantom 3 drone has a GPS allowing for better control and features such as following the pilot and following set waypoints.

Camera and Gimbal

The DJI Phantom 3 drone has a 720P camera with a gimbal for high-quality and professional footage. View the camera from the DJI app and gain the drone’s perspective.

Long Battery

The DJI Phantom 3 drone has an excellent battery life of 25 minutes for long flight times.

Ease of Use

The DJI Phantom 3 is ready to fly out of the box, and easy for beginners to use. The drone features intelligent flight modes so it can be controlled from the pilot or drone’s perspective. The DJI app allows you to view video footage from the drone in real-time for the best control experience.

Performance

The DJI Phantom 3 drone has high power motors and a long-lasting 25-minute battery. The camera on the DJI is an impressive 720P for FPV control, great photos, and videos. The DJI has a GPS module for location control features and is rated for up to 1000m of flight.

Design and Durability

The DJI Phantom 3 drone comes pre-assembled with a gimbal and high-quality camera for professional footage. DJI prides itself on quality durability and the drone has a long-lasting battery. The GPS allows the drone to follow the pilot and follow waypoints.

Pros

  • Long Battery Life
  • GPS features
  • Intelligent flight modes

Cons

  • More expensive than competitors
  • Heavy at 8 pounds

Goolsky CHEERSON CX-23

No products found.

High Speed

The CHEERSON CX-23 drone is extremely fast and powerful. The drone can ascend and descend at 5 meters per second and fly at 15 meters per second.

Durable

The CHEERSON CX-23 drone is durable with its heavy-duty frame. The drone is built to handle turbulent winds and the occasional rough landing.

Point of Interest

The CHEERSON CX-23 drone has a point of interest mode that allows the drone to hover around an object to get a 360-degree view.

Ease of Use

The CHEERSON CX-23 drone is easy enough for a beginner to use. it has an altitude feature that enables when the throttle is released and automatic return home so the drone will not run out of battery far from the user.

Performance

The CHEERSON CX-23 drone is high-performance with some of the fastest flight and ascent speeds. The camera included with the drone is 720P for high-quality video and FPV control. The drone can orbit around a point of interest for great footage.

Design and Durability

The CHEERSON CX-23 drone’s durable design allows bumps and falls without damage to the frame, and the powerful motor can fight strong winds. The battery delivers 13 minutes of drone flight time.

Pros

  • Good battery life
  • Exceptional speed
  • Durable and powerful

Cons

  • More expensive than competitors
  • No smartphone app compatibility
  • Heavy at 4 pounds

Holy Stone GPS FPV RC Drone HS100

Holy Stone 2K GPS FPV RC Drone HS100 with HD Camera Live Video and GPS...
Holy Stone 2K GPS FPV RC Drone HS100 with HD Camera Live Video and GPS...
  • The Largest & Wind-Resistant: Large body and powerful motors keep drone hovering stably in wind. Headless Mode, Altitude...
  • 2K Optimized 120° FOV FPV 5GHz Wi-Fi Camera: 90° Adjustable angle, captures high-quality video and aerial photos. You...
  • Easy to Assemble & Carry: The foldable propellers are pre-assembled. Just insert camera, landing gears and battery....
$139.99
Buy on Amazon

Long Battery Life

The Holy Stone HS100 drone has a 15 minute flight time, and a distance of 500m.

GPS

The GPS in the Holy Stone HS100 drone gives the drone the ability to automatically land and launch, follow the pilot, and return to home for more control in flight.

High-Quality Camera

The Holy Stone HS100 drone has a high-quality 1080P camera with an excellent 120-degree field of view. The drone’s camera can be pointed directly down at a 90-degree angle and the camera can be viewed from the smartphone app or a VR headset.

Ease of Use

The Holy Stone HS100 drone is easy to use for beginners. The drone has a headless mode, so it is controlled from the pilot’s perspective and GPS for the drone to follow the pilot. The drone will take off and land with one key for simple flying. Connect a smartphone using the app to utilize the camera for easy perspective control using live video on the HS100.

Performance

The Holy Stone HS100 drone has a long 500m range and a GPS for enhanced controls and performance. The GPS gives greater control to the pilot and enables features that utilize the GPS. The drone can hold altitude for high-quality and stable video.

Design and Durability

The Holy Stone HS100 drone has good durability and is strong enough to fly in windy conditions, yet maintains a lightweight design at only 1.75 pounds. The HS100 drone has a 1080P camera that allows FPV smartphone and VR control. The camera has a wide 120-degree field of view and can be rotated 90-degrees for downward shots. The drone has a good battery life at 15 minutes for long flights.

Pros

  • Durable but lightweight
  • 1080P camera with a wide viewing angle
  • Good battery life

Cons

  • The battery charge time can take up to 6 hours
  • FPV camera range is only 150m
  • The camera can shake during flight

Conclusion

We give the Holy Stone F181W drone a 4.5 out of 5. During our Holy Stone F181W review, we found the price point to be exceptional for a drone with high-quality features. The Holy Stone is easy to use for beginners and comes fully assembled.

We found the ease-of-use to be one of the reasons this drone is a great buy in our Holy Stone F181W review. The Holy Stone F181W drone has a high-quality 720P camera, which you can view through the smartphone app.

The Holy Stone F181W drone has a wide 120-degree view from the camera for great and professional-looking photos. The Drone has one-button 360-degree flipping and returns to home, it also has automatic altitude hold and headless mode for easy control.

At the price point with all of these features, we find the drone to be impressive. We found the battery life could be better, and the drone lacks the power of some higher-end drones in our Holy Stone F181W review.

Filed Under: Reviews

WARNING: Before You Fly Your New Drone, You Need To Know This

March 6, 2019 By FPV Drone Reviewers Leave a Comment

drone flying with unfocused blue mountains, green valley and a green mountain

How To Fly A Drone Responsibly

Let me guess — you want to know how to fly a drone. Great!

Maybe you were playing with your cousin's remote control car and thought, "This thing should fly!"

Or maybe you attended a phenomenal wedding on the shores of Valencia and watched a 23-minute video of drone footage. Who's to say? (I am to say. It was AWESOME.)

Whatever the reason, drones are becoming more and more popular by the minute.

According to a report by the Federal Aviation Administration, the number of U.S. commercial drones is expected to grow by a factor of 10 over the next half-decade...

From 42,000 drones in 2016 to more than 420,000 by 2021.

Estimately, we'd have more drones than people by the early 2030s!

No matter your reasons for wanting to own, maintain, and operate a drone, you better believe the right one for you exists, and we can help!

Wait A Second — What IS A drone?

First of all, let's start with the basics. You can't fly a drone if you don't know what it is!

you have got to feel the flow

​Via GIPHY

A drone is an unmanned (or un-womanned) aerial vehicle. That doesn't mean uncontrolled — but it means the pilot is not in the vehicle itself.

Mostly, we're talking about commercial drones today, so we're not talking about this:

MQ-9 Reaper, US Navy Drone

MQ-9 Reaper, US Navy Drone. Image from
US Air Force

or this

Dassault nEUROn, Paris Air Show 2007. Image via

Dassault nEUROn, Paris Air Show 2007 Image CC by 1.0, by Captainm via
Wikimedia Commons

or these

Holloman unmanned QF-4 drone

Holloman unmanned QF-4 drone. Image via
US Air Force

For the most part, we're talking about things you can purchase at your town's technology store. I doubt your local Best Buy has any of those multi-million dollar bomb-droppers in the back room.

But that's not to say that the history of drones doesn't include some military trivia.

History of drones

Barrage balloons on the beach at Normandy

Landing ships putting cargo ashore on one of the invasion beaches during the Battle of Normandy. Note the barrage balloons. Via Wikimedia

Even though it can seem like drones have exploded just recently, their history goes all the way back to 1849. Austrian soldiers attacked the city of Venice with unmanned balloons filled with explosives.

Of course, that's not the whole story...

There's a good reason drones didn't become standard practice immediately following that  — many of the balloons blew back and bombed the Austrians themselves. So clearly there were a couple kinks to work out.

chemical mixing

Via GIPHY

Luckily, the kinks were worked out! And that means that now, you can have the drone your heart desires delivered right to your front door.

Drone uses

drone wedding photography

Drone Wedding Photography, image via cmcc04 

Think about it — what would you need a drone for?

In fact, drones have many uses, but some of the most popular are:

  • Nature Photography

  • Landscape Photography

  • Music Videos

  • Weddings

  • Aviation Practice

  • Collecting evidence that your neighbor, Tim Robbins, is actually a terrorist who hates America. (if you're too young to get that joke, it's time for a movie night!)

  • Just plain fun.

If you use drones for nature, you might be able to snap photos like this!

Drone Photography of Whale

, by Ryan Hallock, via Ryan Hallock

Whether it's professional or just for fun, if you pick the right drone, you'll have a lot of fun!

Drone definitions

If you're new to the world of drones, it can feel like people are speaking a foreign language.

a wondering expression

Via GIPHY

But stay with me here — we can de-mystify it all. Here are some common definitions about drones:

  • FPV — First Person View

  • Propellers — The broad, angled blades that make drone flight possible

  • Throttle — Control used to increase or decrease the RPM (speed) of the electric motors

  • Rotor — The shaft that connects to the propellers to give your drone lift. (Also important when it comes to the names of some drone types!)

  • Brushless motor — As opposed to a brushed motor, these are more reliable, efficient, and quiet.

  • Landing Gear — It looks different for every drone. Some look like helicopters, but if there's nothing on the drone's underbelly to damage, some have none at all.

  • Gimbal — A pivoting mount, for stabilizing cameras and other sensors on the drone.

Don't worry if the lingo confuses you at first — that happens to everyone! But if you stay focused, you'll be able to pick it up in no time!

Types of drones

Drone in flight there are many types of drones

Via Pixabay

It won't surprise you to learn that many types of drones are available. Largely, these are broken up into different types, and just like a good bird-watcher, I want you to be able to know these drones by sight.

There are four major types of drone, and they are:

drone with wikimedia logo on it, 4 rotors

Image CC by A-SA by 3.0, by Clément Bucco-Lechat, via Wikimedia


Multi Rotor Drones
USGS Team Flies Drones for Oregon BLM Forestry Research

USGS Team Flies Drones for Oregon BLM Forestry Research. Image by Bureau of Land Management


Fixed Wing Drones
E-flite Blade mSR Micro Single Rotor Model Helicopter

E-flite Blade mSR Micro Single Rotor Model Helicopter, Image CC by 3.0, by Wesha, via Wikimedia Commons


Single Rotor Helicopter


Fixed-Wing Hybrid

Knowing how to fly a drone can certainly be influenced by knowing what you're flying. So watch out for all these different drones!

Drone controls

Drone Controls

MavMount Drone controller with tablet adapter. Image via MavMount

Nothing matters more than controlling your drone.

Just to start with, some drones can cost more than $3,000! That is a lot of money to let get away from you because of a windy day.

So before you make that mistake, let's learn some drone controls.

In general, the four controls you'll need to worry about on a multicopter drone are:

  • Roll — Rolls the copter

  • Pitch — Tilts the copter forward and backward

  • Yaw — Rotates the quadcopter left or right

  • Throttle — Adjusts the altitude of the quadcopter

Once you've nailed down your knowledge of the controls, you can get ready for some serious fun — drone maneuvers!

Dancing in the sky

via GIPHY

I know what you're thinking.

"But when will I get to show off my drone's sweet dance moves?"

Well, we're getting to that. But if you don't treat the craft of drones with respect and patience, three terrible things could happen:

  • You could accidentally break the law.

  • You could accidentally damage property, wildlife, or physically injure someone.

  • Worst of all, you could end up in a viral drone fail video.

While some drone maneuvers are hard to explain in words and lend themselves more to the practical, some can be! The website Clayviation described a maneuver they call Dizzy Up like this:

"Starting from a few feet above the ground, lift straight up while rotating. This only uses your left stick, simply placing it in a forward and left or forward and right position.

Practice different combinations of quickly up with slow rotation, slowly up with quick rotation, etc. Rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise."

With moves like these, you and your drone can dazzle!

Flight modes

https://giphy.com/gifs/scooby–doo–where–are–you–mystery–incorporated–69jvP3VXUYhr3YUYu9” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>via GIPHY

Just like a camera, drones have modes. Many of these vary by drone, and operator skill. However, you should read up before using your drone.

Some modes will require you to draw paths!

Here are a few common flight modes:

  • Manual mode — This mode allows you total control over the vehicle. Only experienced drone users should pull this one.

  • Altitude hold — Useful for when you need to hold a certain altitude and you want smooth filming.

  • GPS Position Hold — Good for beginners! The vehicle does take new directions from you, but it also holds the new path steady until you tell it something new.

  • Failsafe — Emergencies happen to everyone. With Failsafe mode, you can tell the drone what to do if it runs too far afield, or other variables (e.g. rain) This is a good example of why you need to check these modes before flying — you need to know which way the drone will take home.

"By 2020, the commercial drone market is expected to generate just under 2.4 billion U.S. dollars in global revenue." — Statista

Staying on the right side of the law

https://giphy.com/gifs/oACFYaf7KE1eo“>via GIPHY

Can I tell you a secret?

There is absolutely no reason not to properly register your drone. Wanna know why?

According to the Federal Aviation Administration:

"Even if you're only flying in your backyard, drones that weigh more than 0.55 pounds must be registered.

1. Register your drone with the FAA – Visit faadronezone.faa.gov and select "Fly Model Aircraft under Section 336" to get started.

  • You must be at least 13 years old to register your drone. If you are less then 13 years old, a responsible adult must register in your place.

  • Registration costs $5 and is valid for 3 years.

It only costs five dollars — that's why! 

To make sure your drone is good with the feds, you have to be over 13 years old and have $5. That's certainly a lower bar than registering your car in my home state of New York.

When you click on the link to register, it will ask you for a valid email address.

 how to fly a drone faadronezone

Image via screen capture by author

And if you're still not convinced, here's a gem from the FAA: "You will be subject to civil and criminal penalties if you meet the criteria to register an unmanned aircraft and do not register."

That's way too much hassle over a small amount. Register your drone.

Drone licenses and certifications

thats cool

Via GIPHY

If you're interested, you can also receive certifications and licenses for your drone, to prove you know your stuff.

Pretty cool!

Unfortunately, though you have to be 13 to register a drone, you have to be 16 to pass the knowledge test. But after that, you can receive your remote pilot certificate, and you will be an FAA-certified remote pilot!

Side benefits

One fringe benefit of registering your drone is loss prevention.

Luckily, Uncle Sam is VERY interested in where all things in the sky are, be they UFOs, drones, and suspiciously not Carl's house from Pixar's "UP."

This means that you can mark your drone with a registration number, and if your drone is lost or stolen, you can use that number to attempt to locate it. It won't always end in recovery, but better safe than sorry.

house flying using balloons

Via GIPHY

Pre-flight checklist

via GIPHY

You know how they say there are no shortcuts? Well, they're wrong. And I'm going to show you one right now.

Print out this list. And before every flight — every single flight — look at it, and do what it says.

I promise you your drone experience will improve.

Before the day you fly

  • Check the weather

  • Update Firmware

  • Update App

  • SD card formatted

  • Story board/shot list

  • Plan your flight route/area

  • Check for obstacles

  • Get needed permissions

  • Pre-notification requirements?

  • Check NOTAMS

  • Controller batteries charged

  • Ground stations batteries charged

  • Aircraft Batteries Charged

  • First Aid Kit

  • equipment packed

Immediately before you fly

  • Final equipment check

  • Inspect aircraft

  • Warn all spectators

  • Home point set/RTH height

  • Satellite strength check

  •  Signal strength check

  • Batteries properly fitted

  • Correct flight mode selected

  • Compass Calibrated

  • Battery temperature correct

  • SD card in aircraft

  • Gimbal clamp removed

  • REMOVE LENS CAP

  • Check wind speed

  • Propellers: tight and freely moving

  • Flip out antenna

  • Know take off and landing sites

  • Double check for obstacles

Take Off!

  • Turn on controller

  • Turn on aircraft

  • PRESS RECORD

  • Ascend to 15 feet and hover: monitor behavior and sound!

  • All controls responsive?

Always fly responsibly! 

If your SD Card isn't formatted, you might get your drone in the air only to realize it can't take pictures. If you haven't done an obstacle check, you might not have noticed a large tree in the distance.

Also, something like checking that all controls are responsive prior to take-off could actually prevent you from crashing.

drone crashing

Via GIPHY

For the uninitiated newbie, it's easy to get swept up. "I don't want to learn all this boring stuff — I want to fly," they think.

And so they have a bad experience because they weren't properly prepared.

Of course there's another side to that problem.

And lest you're knowingly shaking your head at hotheaded newbies, the experience drone flyer faces a different obstacle. "I'm good at this and I know what I'm doing," they'll think. "I can skip a few steps."

And you know what? Enough of those skipped steps and the veterans run into a problem, too, as a result.

But if you follow the checklist, it will help you with things that you, as an advanced drone flyer might forget, and as a new one, might not know to check for.

not agreeing

Via GIPHY

Safety tips

sports drone in flight

Image via Pixhere

There are a myriad ways to keep you and your drone safe. Many best practices for your drone won't blow your mind, but they'll do their job.

Some tips include:

  • Fly in good weather — Unlike actual planes, a drone isn't equipped with fancy tech to let you operate in all kinds of inclement weather. And that means it's important to actually see your drone, and if you can't, you should fly a different day. But there's no harm in waiting, but if it rains or snows, that can spell bad news for your aerial buddy.

  • No Airports (More on that later)

  • Stay within sight — Staying within sight has a double effect — staying within range. If, for instance, you have your Failsafe engaged, then forcing your drone out of range can mean triggering your Failsafe and sending it home. Be careful.

  • Check the area — Checking for obstructions doesn't mean just looking around to make sure nothing's around. It doesn't have to take forever, but it's a deep look at the landscape and how it might change. For instance, perhaps you are nearby a bulldozer, unoperated until 11 am. Something in the landscape was still, and now it's not. Taking stock of the deeper terrain around you will help you anticipate challenges for flying, and even whether or not you should pack it all up.

  • Did you need to be told not to fly above a military base? They will shoot down your drone.

"The commercial drone market is expected to grow to around 8.7 billion U.S. dollars worldwide by 2021." - Statista

Drone regulations

drone regulations

Not surprisingly, drones are a relatively new area of law, and that comes with some problems. The Founding Fathers certainly did not enshrine Americans' right to small, unmanned aerial vehicles in the Constitution.

However, even though there are legal holes where drones should be, here's a classic and familiar standard to go by:

Don't drink and drone.

Seems simple enough, right? Whereas specific statutes exist for bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles, cars, and even horses, most states haven't caught up with drones yet. But that doesn't mean they can't get you for injudicious use of drone.

The code says:

“No person may operate model aircraft so as to endanger the safety of the national airspace system."

The FAA doesn't want you to do it. Your mother REALLY doesn't want you to do it. And it's not worth it just to show off to your friends at a party.

Don't drink and drone, and don't let your friends do it, either.

That's a good place to start, here's the next step:

Where to fly and where NOT to

woman flying

Via GIPHY

Would you like to guess where you should fly?

You're going to be disappointed when I tell you.

  • You should NOT fly above an active crime scene or a fire.

  • Do: fly in an open meadow.

  • You should NOT fly above a packed SuperBowl stadium because you forgot to buy Patriots tickets.

  • DO: Fly in places with a clear field of vision.

  • You should NOT give the planes at your local airport a small, annoying buddy.

If you're not experienced, flying over grass doesn't hurt.

All these seem pretty obvious, no? Based on what I've told you, I'll let you guess if it's a good or bad idea to fly your drone over the White House.

All kidding aside ... do not.

How To Fly A Drone

Though there are many who claim otherwise, you cannot learn to fly a drone in seven minutes. HOWEVER, in seven minutes, I can guarantee you'll find enough resources to keep you busy. Check out this one:

Or this tutorial on quadcopters:

This one will give you five steps a beginning drone enthusiast should master:

So you’ve crashed your drone

plane crashed by a gorilla

Via GIPHY

If you remembered to do a good pre-flight check, it was good weather, there were few obstructions, and you didn't drink and drone, you still might end up with a crashed drone.

In this case, I definitely hope you kept the receipt. But also — relax!

Here's your next step:

Retrieve the drone. And often you'll be amazed at how little the damage was — maybe a broken propeller here or there. Don't panic until you can assess the damage and take your next steps.

How to use drone camera (legally!)

a reminder about power

Via GIPHY

I want to tell you a story.

One night, in Lower Township, New Jersey, a man allegedly shot down his neighbor's drone, after his neighbor put it to hover to take pictures of another neighborhood house for his friend — a builder.

Is the story funny? Obviously. But it gets a serious point across.

With great power comes great responsibility.

Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should. And just because you feel that you can go wherever you want with your drone doesn't make it legal (granted, it's not always legal to shoot it down).

In Florida, for example, Criminal Code Section 934.50 forbids using drones for surveillance in violation of another person's reasonable expectation of privacy. In Arkansas, AR Code Section 5-60-103 forbids using drones to invade privacy and commit video voyeurism. In California, Civil Code Section 1708.8 forbids the using drones to record another person without consent. And Nevada law (NRS 193.130) prohibits weapons on drones.

So when you pick up that remote, you should think carefully, or you could end up in serious trouble.

Think about it...

...the story of the New Jersey man's shot drone could've ended in much less comic ways.

Drone milestones

drone flying

Via GIPHY

So how do you know if your drone game is any good?

How can you tell if you're improving at all?

Well, there are some skills that, if you master them, you'll be pretty far from where you started. But your ultimate goal is not to learn any one particular skill — but to use them in conjunction to get more out of your droning experience.

Let's check out a couple:

Figure eight

The figure 8 will help you focus on flying and improve your perception of where your drone is in 3D space. It requires combining turning and passing-by skills.

Want more variety? Try varying the size of the loops, or the speed at which you are doing them.

Flying in circles

This will give you an opportunity to improve your droning. Making accurate circles will enhance your skills. For this one, just pitch forward with your right stick, and give it some yaw to turn.

With these in your back pocket, you'll be able to combine them with other skills to make more complex figures as a result. If you're a photographer or videographer, you can also practice moving your drone around as smoothly as possible.

Dot Your I's And Cross Your T's

Now you have a head full of knowledge about drones, but we're not done yet!

And here are a few more things to make your droning experience the best it can be!

Drone maintenance

Similar to your pre-flight checklist, DJI Guides has a helpful maintenance checklist to follow. If you want to keep your drone in fantastic shape, we recommend you keep an eye on:

  • Visual Damage — Obviously, if it's damage you can see, that's not great. You'll already know, due to your pre-flight checklist, whether all controls are responding and if there's an internal issue. But it's a good idea to check the outsides as well for anything you may have missed.

  • Battery — The most important tip we have is this: Don't charge your battery directly after a flight. It's probably too hot.

  • Transportation — Things can happen to your drone while you're carrying it around. Even if you think you're pretty careful, best to check on it.

  • Storage — Make sure your drone is not too hot nor too cold. 77% is probably a good temperature for storage.

Drone pilot ground schools

drones flying

Via GIPHY

A lot of droning can seem solitary and only for lone wolves, but it's not only a solo game!

And if you're the kind of student that doesn't thrive alone, don't worry.

You can join a drone pilot ground school to get an instructor who can get you FAA-certified as a remote pilot. It might cost you a pretty penny ($299).

But we can't all learn Figure Eights by ourselves.

Drone apps

Phones have become a part of our lives and you want a phone that can jive with your drone. Here are a couple of apps that might pique your interest:

AirMap

It has the information for UAV laws in over 20 countries, so you'll never accidentally break the law. And it also allows you to map out flight paths for your drone from the app itself.

UAV Forecast

Another app meant for avid droners, this app will tell you everything you could want to know about the weather (and you should want to know everything.) With apps like these, you'll be able to more confidently plan your outings, knowing exactly the conditions you'll face.

Best drone for me!

swinging using drones

Via GIPHY

And finally, the moment you've been waiting for — what is the best drone for YOU?

Honestly ... I can't just tell you that.

I know that My Dear Drone chooses the 818 Hornet as a great drone for beginners (it's a quadcopter.)

It's a fact that the DJI Phantom 4 has an excellent smartphone app, and it's undeniable that it's solidly outside the range of anything a beginner needs. But we sold Phantoms when I worked at Best Buy, and they rarely came back.

Off the top of my head, I can't tell you which drone is perfect for you.

But you know what to look for, how to obey the law, how to take care of a drone, what you want to learn, and where to get more information.

Hopefully, that information takes you higher and higher in the world of droning, because, above all, remember ... the sky's the limit.

Featured image via Pixhere

superman balloon

Via GIPHY

Enter your text here...

Filed Under: fpvdronereviews.com, Guides Tagged With: crash, Drone, Fly, lawsuits, Maintenance, safety

Favourite Custom Builds 2018

August 28, 2017 By FPV Drone Reviewers Leave a Comment

Interactive CLICK each picture for build list

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Filed Under: Reviews

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drone hovering above a person's hand

Drone Technology: What’s Next for Major Drone Companies?

drone flying with unfocused blue mountains, green valley and a green mountain

WARNING: Before You Fly Your New Drone, You Need To Know This

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