If you’re on a tight budget and looking for the best drone under 200, you’ll want to keep reading. Drones have become increasingly popular over the years, but many models come with expensive price tags. Fortunately, there are still plenty of affordable options available that offer great features and performance.
We’ve done the research for you and have compiled a list of some of the best drones under 200. From mini drones with built-in cameras to foldable drones with long battery life, there’s something here for every type of drone enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’re sure to find a drone that meets your needs and fits your budget.
So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the top drones under $200. Get ready to discover some amazing drones that won’t break the bank!
Top 6 drones under $200
When it comes to finding the best drone under $200, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pilot, these drones offer great features and performance without breaking the bank.
One of the top drones in this price range is the DJI Phantom 3 Standard. It boasts a 2.7K camera that captures stunning aerial footage and has a flight time of up to 25 minutes. Another popular choice is the Holy Stone HS700D, which comes with a 2K camera and GPS assisted flight for precise positioning.
If you’re looking for a compact option, the Ryze Tello is a great choice. It may be small, but it still offers a 720p camera and up to 13 minutes of flight time. The Snaptain SP500 is also worth considering with its 1080p camera and follow me mode.
Overall, these six drones offer great value for money and are perfect for those who want to get started with aerial photography or just have fun flying.
Comparison chart of 6 best drones under $200
When looking to buy a drone under $200, it’s important to compare the different options available in order to make an informed decision. In this comparison chart, we will take a closer look at six of the best drones in this price range.
DJI Phantom 3 Standard
The DJI Phantom 3 Standard is a popular choice for drone enthusiasts on a budget. With its 2.7K camera and stable flight performance, it offers great value for its price. However, the battery life could be better, lasting around 20 minutes.
Holy Stone HS720
The Holy Stone HS720 is an impressive drone that boasts a 4K camera and a long flight time of up to 26 minutes. It also comes with GPS and has an easy-to-use control system. However, some users have reported occasional connectivity issues.
Parrot Bebop 2 Power
The Parrot Bebop 2 Power is a compact drone that offers 1080p video quality and a flight time of up to 25 minutes. It has a built-in GPS and a range of up to 2 kilometers. However, it lacks obstacle avoidance capabilities.
Ryze Tello
The Ryze Tello is a small and lightweight drone that comes with a 720p camera. It’s easy to fly and has a flight time of around 13 minutes. It is a great option for beginners or those looking for a portable drone. However, its camera quality is not as high as some other drones on this list.
Potensic D58
The Potensic D58 is a feature-packed drone with a 1080p camera and a flight time of up to 36 minutes. It has GPS, follow me mode, and a return to home function. However, some users have reported issues with the stability of the drone in windy conditions.
Altair 818 Hornet
The Altair 818 Hornet is a durable and robust drone that comes with a 720p camera. It has a flight time of up to 15 minutes and features one-button takeoff and landing. However, it lacks GPS and has limited range compared to some other drones on this list.
Pros and Cons of Each Drone Under $200
DJI Tello Drone
The DJI Tello drone offers an impressive set of features considering its affordable price. One of its biggest pros is its stability and ease of use, making it perfect for beginners. The drone also comes with a high-quality camera that can capture decent photos and videos. Additionally, it has a durable build and intelligent flight modes that allow for creative aerial shots. On the downside, the DJI Tello has a relatively short battery life, limiting its flight time to around 13 minutes. Another drawback is the lack of obstacle avoidance sensors, which means that users need to be cautious when flying in tight spaces or near obstacles.
Drone X Pro
The Drone X Pro is known for its compact design and portability. It features a foldable structure that makes it easy to carry around and store. This drone also comes with a decent camera that can capture sharp images and high-definition videos. With its built-in altitude hold function, it provides stable and smooth flights. However, one of its disadvantages is the limited control range, which is around 80 meters. The Drone X Pro also has a shorter flight time compared to some other drones in this price range, lasting approximately 10 minutes per full charge. Additionally, it lacks advanced features like GPS positioning or follow-me mode, which might be important for more experienced users.
Holy Stone HS720
The Holy Stone HS720 is a popular drone known for its excellent camera quality. It boasts a 2K HD camera that captures stunning aerial shots and videos with impressive clarity. This drone also features various intelligent flight modes such as follow-me mode and orbit mode, allowing users to capture cinematic shots effortlessly. Another advantage is its long control range of up to 800 meters, providing more freedom during flights. However, the Holy Stone HS720 is on the heavier side compared to other drones in this price range, which might impact its portability. It also has a shorter flight time of around 20 minutes, so users may need to consider carrying extra batteries for longer shooting sessions.
Autel Robotics EVO
The Autel Robotics EVO drone is a versatile option that offers both impressive flight performance and camera capabilities. With its 4K Ultra HD camera, it captures stunning details and vibrant colors in both photos and videos. This drone also stands out for its long battery life, lasting up to 30 minutes on a single charge. The Autel Robotics EVO comes equipped with obstacle avoidance sensors, ensuring safer flights and preventing accidents. However, one drawback is its relatively high price compared to other drones in this price range. The EVO also lacks intelligent flight modes like follow-me or orbit mode, which may limit its creative potential for some users.
Snaptain SP650
The Snaptain SP650 drone is an affordable option that offers decent performance and features. It comes with a 1080p HD camera that captures clear photos and videos. This drone also features voice control, allowing users to instruct it through simple voice commands. The Snaptain SP650 is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry and transport. However, one of its downsides is the shorter control range, which is around 80 meters. It also lacks advanced flight modes like follow-me or orbit mode. Additionally, the battery life of the SP650 is relatively shorter compared to other drones, lasting around 12 minutes per full charge.
Contixo F20
The Contixo F20 drone is a feature-packed option that offers excellent value for its price. It features a 4K Ultra HD camera that delivers sharp and high-quality photos and videos. This drone comes equipped with GPS positioning, enabling precise and stable flights even in windy conditions. It also offers intelligent flight modes such as follow-me and orbit mode for creative shots. The Contixo F20 boasts a long control range of up to 500 meters, providing users with greater flight freedom. However, it has a relatively shorter battery life, lasting around 15 minutes per charge. The drone’s size and weight might also be considered less portable compared to other options in this price range.
Section 1: Top 6 Drones under $200
4. Detailed review of the DJI Tello drone
The DJI Tello drone is a compact and lightweight drone that is perfect for beginners and casual drone enthusiasts. With its small size and affordable price tag, it offers a great entry point into the world of drones.
The DJI Tello drone features a high-quality camera that can capture stunning photos and videos. It has a flight time of up to 13 minutes and can reach a maximum speed of 17.9 mph. The drone also comes with intelligent flight modes, such as Throw & Go and 8D Flips, which make it fun and easy to fly.
One of the standout features of the DJI Tello drone is its built-in image stabilization technology, which ensures smooth and steady footage. The drone also has obstacle avoidance sensors, which help prevent collisions during flight. It can be controlled using a smartphone or a dedicated remote controller.
In terms of design, the DJI Tello drone has a sleek and modern look. It is constructed with high-quality materials and has a durable build that can withstand minor crashes and bumps. The drone also features LED lights, which not only enhance visibility but also make it look cool during night flights.
Tips for choosing the best drone under $200
1. Consider the features
When choosing a drone under $200, it’s important to consider the features that are most important to you. Some drones may have high-quality cameras, while others may focus more on flight performance. Think about whether you prioritize photography capabilities, long flight times, or advanced flight modes. Additionally, consider the drone’s range, as some may have limited distances they can travel from the controller.
2. Research customer reviews
Before making a purchase, take the time to read customer reviews of the drone you’re interested in. This will give you valuable insight into the experiences of others who have used the drone and can help you make an informed decision. Look for reviews that discuss the drone’s durability, ease of use, and reliability. If many customers report issues with a specific drone, it may be best to consider other options.
3. Check for spare parts availability
Accidents happen, and drones can sometimes crash or experience malfunctions. It’s essential to check if spare parts for the drone you’re considering are readily available. Check if the manufacturer offers spare parts, or if they can be easily found from third-party sources. This will ensure that if your drone does require repairs, you can quickly get it back in the air without significant downtime.
4. Consider the drone’s battery life
One important aspect to consider when choosing a drone under $200 is the battery life. Drones with longer flight times will allow you to capture more footage and have longer flying sessions. Look for drones with batteries that offer at least 15-20 minutes of flight time per charge. Additionally, consider if the drone’s batteries are replaceable or if they need to be charged in the drone itself, as this may impact your ability to fly for extended periods.
Frequently asked questions about drones under $200
1. Are drones under $200 good quality?
Yes, drones under $200 can still offer good quality and performance, especially if you choose from reputable brands and read reviews before purchasing. While they may not have all the advanced features of higher-priced drones, they can still provide a great flying experience and capture decent aerial footage.
2. How long do the batteries of drones under $200 last?
The battery life of drones under $200 can vary depending on the specific model and usage. On average, you can expect a flight time of around 10-15 minutes per battery charge. It’s always a good idea to purchase extra batteries to extend your flight time and maximize your drone’s potential.
3. Can drones under $200 be used for professional purposes?
While drones under $200 may not have all the advanced features required for professional aerial photography or videography, they can still be used for recreational or hobby purposes. They can capture impressive footage and provide an exciting flying experience, but if you’re looking for more professional-grade features, you may need to invest in a higher-priced drone.
4. Do drones under $200 come with a camera?
Many drones under $200 come with a built-in camera, allowing you to capture aerial footage and photos. However, the quality of the camera may not be as high as that of more expensive drones. It’s important to check the specifications and reviews of a drone to determine the quality of its camera before making a purchase.