The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Best Budget Drone

Drone buying guide

Buying a budget drone can be a great way to get started with flying a Drone for aerial photography or just have fun flying a remote-controlled drone. 

Before buying a drone, consider the legal implications of operating an unmanned aircraft. Read this article to avoid legal hassles and prevent overspending on an unsuitable drone. We’re here to guide you through the process!

What are Drones?

Drones are fantastic flying machines you can control from the ground. Drones, like little helicopters or mini planes, come in all shapes and sizes. They are great at capturing stunning photos and videos high up in the sky. They’re also handy for checking on farms or finding lost things. Some even help keep an eye on places from above! Think of them as flying cameras that can go where people can’t

Factors to consider when buying a Drone

With so many options available regarding drones, a basic understanding of the following key features of Drones would help you find the best budget drone for your needs. 

Price

If you are new to drones, start with budget-friendly options until you’re confident in your flying skills. Look at all the optional features and see whether you need them. Refrain from spending money on unwanted features, as getting used to flying a drone takes time. You would have accidents while learning and want to avoid damaging expensive drones. 

Purpose and Usage

Determine why you want a drone. Are you primarily interested in photography, videography, or just flying for fun? Look for RTF-type drones. Named for their convenience, ready-to-fly (RTF) drones are the most beginner-friendly option. They typically include all the necessary components to kick-start your drone-flying adventure.

Camera Quality

If you’re interested in aerial photography or videography, look for a drone with a decent camera. Consider factors like resolution, stabilisation, and field of view.

Flight Time

What is Drone flight time?

Flight time in drones refers to how long a drone can remain airborne on a single battery charge before it requires recharging. Whether you are flying a drone as a hobby, for aerial photos, shooting videos or doing surveys, flying time is essential.

Remember that different drone models have different flight durations, so consider your intended application and this when buying a drone and planning your drone adventures. The battery size, weight, and design affect how long the drone can fly.

As a general rule, bigger drones tend to stay airborne longer. Pro-grade drones can go for 30 minutes, while toy drones usually max out at around 7-9 minutes. A spare battery is a good idea if you’re looking for more airtime.

Range

Consider the drone’s flying range, which is the maximum distance the drone can fly from the controller.

Flight Stability and GPS

Look for drones with GPS or other stabilisation features. These technologies help maintain stable flight and assist with return-to-home functions.

Ease of Use and Controls

Consider whether the drone suits beginners or requires a more experienced pilot. Look for features like auto takeoff, auto landing, and easy-to-use controls.

Altitude Hold and Headless Mode

Altitude hold lets the drone maintain a consistent altitude without constant adjustments. Headless mode simplifies controls by making the drone’s orientation relative to the pilot.

Return-to-Home (RTH) Feature

RTH is an important safety feature that ensures the drone returns to its takeoff location if it loses connection with the controller or if the battery is critically low.

Intelligent Flight Modes

Some budget drones offer intelligent flight modes like follow-me, orbit, and waypoints. These can enhance your aerial photography and videography capabilities.

Build Quality and Durability

Look for drones made from durable materials that can withstand occasional bumps and crashes. You will inevitably have a few crashes during your learning curve and want to avoid damaging the drone during those early days. 

Size and Portability

Consider the drone’s size, especially if you plan to travel with it. Compact, foldable drones are more portable.

Extra Batteries and ease of change

Check if spare batteries are available and consider purchasing extras for extended flight sessions. When investing in a drone, prioritise models with hassle-free battery swaps. This ensures seamless, uninterrupted flights. Look for user-friendly designs that facilitate quick changes, saving valuable time in the field.

Equally important is having an extra drone battery. This small investment pays off big time, doubling your flight duration. Whether capturing breathtaking aerial shots or exploring new perspectives, a spare battery guarantees you won’t miss a moment.

Charging Time

When shopping for a drone, knowing about battery charging times is essential. Your everyday consumer drone will typically take 60 to 90 minutes to charge up fully. Keep in mind that the type of charger you use matters, too. A charging hub is faster than a USB cable.

So, when you’re making your choice, factor in the battery charging time for more uninterrupted fun in the air

Regulations and Local Laws

Familiarise yourself with local drone regulations and laws. Some areas have restrictions on where and how high you can fly.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Research the brand and read customer reviews to gauge the overall quality and reliability of the drone.

Warranty and Support

Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer and their reputation for customer support.