Introduction
Drones have become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. They offer an unparalleled perspective on the world and can be used for a wide range of applications, from aerial photography and videography to search and rescue operations. However, with so many drones on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to buy. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the top 10 best drones under $500 for maximum value.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Drone Under $500
A high-quality camera can help you capture stunning aerial footage and photos, so make sure to choose a drone with a good camera and resolution.
Flight time and range
Longer flight times and ranges allow you to explore and capture more footage, so consider a drone with a longer battery life and range.
Stability features like altitude hold and headless mode
These features help make flying easier and more stable, especially for beginners.
Ease of use, including automatic takeoff and landing
Automatic takeoff and landing features make it easier to get your drone in the air and bring it back down safely.
Obstacle avoidance system
An obstacle avoidance system can help prevent collisions and crashes, especially when flying in tight spaces.
GPS-assisted hover
This feature helps the drone maintain a stable position in the air, making it easier to control and fly.
Size and portability
Consider the size and weight of the drone, especially if you plan to travel with it or carry it around.
Price and overall value for money
Make sure to choose a drone that offers great value for its price point, considering all the features and capabilities it offers.
Buying Tips: How to Choose the Best Drone Under $500
Consider what features are most important to you and how you plan to use the drone. This will help narrow down the options and find a drone that best fits your needs.
Check the camera quality
If you’re looking to use the drone for photography or videography, make sure to check the camera quality and resolution.
Look for stability features
Features like altitude hold and headless mode can make flying a drone much easier and more stable.
Check the flight time and range
Make sure the drone has a long enough flight time and range to suit your needs.
Consider ease of use
Some drones are more beginner-friendly than others, so consider how easy the drone is to fly and whether it has features like automatic takeoff and landing.
Top 12 Best Drones Under $500 Review
1. EMAX Tinyhawk 2 Freestyle 2.5 inch FPV Drone
The EMAX Tinyhawk 2 Freestyle is a great option for those looking for a compact and powerful drone. It has a 2.5 inch frame and can fly up to 200 meters away, making it an excellent option for flying in smaller areas. The drone has a maximum flight time of 7 minutes, which is shorter than some other drones, but it’s still a great option for beginners or those looking for a smaller drone.
In terms of performance, the Tinyhawk 2 Freestyle is a great performer for its size. It has a 5.8GHz video transmission system that provides a clear and stable image, even at a distance. The drone also has a 200mW VTX power output, which helps ensure a reliable signal.
One of the standout features of the Tinyhawk 2 Freestyle is its durability. The drone has a robust frame and is designed to withstand crashes and collisions. This makes it an excellent option for beginners who are just learning to fly.
Pros
- Compact and powerful
- Can fly up to 200 meters away
- Great option for flying in smaller areas
- Durable frame
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Shorter flight time compared to some other drones
- May not be as stable in windy conditions
2. Contixo F22 FPV Drone with Camera
The Contixo F22 is a mid-range drone that offers great performance and features for the price. It has a 1080p camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 15 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 1 kilometer and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the Contixo F22 is a solid performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. The 1080p camera is also a great feature, providing high-quality footage for aerial photography and videography.
One of the standout features of the Contixo F22 is its foldable design. The drone can be easily folded down to a compact size for storage and transportation. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a drone that is easy to take with them on the go.
Pros
- Great performance and features for the price
- 1080p camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 15 minutes
- Range of up to 1 kilometer
- Foldable design for easy storage and transportation
- App-controlled for easy flying
Cons
- Camera may not be as high-quality as some other drones
3. DRONEEYE 4DV4 Drone with 1080P Camera
The DRONEEYE 4DV4 is a mid-range drone that offers great value for the price. It has a 1080p camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 20 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 300 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the DRONEEYE 4DV4 is a great option for those looking for a reliable drone that won’t break the bank. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. The 1080p camera is also a great feature, providing high-quality footage for aerial photography and videography.
One of the standout features of the DRONEEYE 4DV4 is its brushless motor, which provides a smoother and more efficient flight experience. The drone also has a built-in GPS system that helps ensure stable flights and enables features like automatic return to home and follow me modes.
The DRONEEYE 4DV4 also has a number of safety features, including an automatic landing function that activates when the battery is low. This helps prevent the drone from crashing and getting damaged. The drone also has LED lights that make it visible even in low light conditions.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- 1080p camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 20 minutes
- Range of up to 300 meters
- Brushless motor for smoother and more efficient flight
- Built-in GPS for stable flights and automatic return to home/follow me modes
- Automatic landing function and LED lights for added safety
Cons
- May be more difficult to control for beginners
- Camera may not be as high-quality as some other drones
4. SYMA X500 4K Drone
The SYMA X500 is a mid-range drone that offers a number of features and capabilities that are typically only found on higher-end drones. It has a 4K camera that can shoot video at 25 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 30 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 500 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the SYMA X500 is a solid performer. It has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. The drone also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
One of the standout features of the SYMA X500 is its brushless motor, which provides a smooth and efficient flight experience. The drone also has a built-in GPS system that helps ensure stable flights and enables features like automatic return to home and follow me modes.
Pros
- 4K camera that shoots video at 25 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 30 minutes
- Range of up to 500 meters
- Brushless motor for smoother and more efficient flight
- Built-in GPS for stable flights and automatic return-to-home/follow me modes
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- May be more difficult to control for beginners
5. LOPOM GPS Drone with 4K Camera
The LOPOM GPS Drone is a mid-range drone that offers a number of features and capabilities that make it a great option for aerial photography and videography. It has a 4K camera that can shoot video at 25 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 25 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 800 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the LOPOM GPS Drone is a great performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
One of the standout features of the LOPOM GPS Drone is its brushless motor, which provides a smooth and efficient flight experience. The drone also has a built-in GPS system that helps ensure stable flights and enables features like automatic return to home and follow me modes.
Pros
- 4K camera that shoots video at 25 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 25 minutes
- Range of up to 800 meters
- Brushless motor for smoother and more efficient flight
- Built-in GPS for stable flights and automatic return to home/follow me modes
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- May be more difficult to control for beginners
- Some users have reported issues with the app and connectivity
6. DEERC D60 Drones with Camera
The DEERC D60 is a budget-friendly drone that offers great value for the price. It has a 1080p camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 20 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 120 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the DEERC D60 is a solid performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
One of the standout features of the DEERC D60 is its foldable design. The drone can be easily folded down to a compact size for storage and transportation. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a drone that is easy to take with them on the go.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- 1080p camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 20 minutes
- Range of up to 120 meters
- Foldable design for easy storage and transportation
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- Camera may not be as high-quality as some other drones
7. Holy Stone HS710 Drones
The Holy Stone HS710 is a mid-range drone that offers a number of features and capabilities that make it a great option for aerial photography and videography. It has a 2K camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 26 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 980 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the Holy Stone HS710 is a great performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
One of the standout features of the Holy Stone HS710 is its GPS system, which helps ensure stable flights and enables features like automatic return to home and follow me modes.
Pros
- 2K camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 26 minutes
- Range of up to 980 meters
- GPS system for stable flights and automatic return to home/follow me modes
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- May be more difficult to control for beginners
8. Tucok 012S Drones with Camera
The Tucok 012S is a budget-friendly drone that offers great value for the price. It has a 1080p camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 15 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 100 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the Tucok 012S is a solid performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
One of the standout features of the Tucok 012S is its foldable design. The drone can be easily folded down to a compact size for storage and transportation. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a drone that is easy to take with them on the go.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- 1080p camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 15 minutes
- Range of up to 100 meters
- Foldable design for easy storage and transportation
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the app and connectivity
- May not be as durable as some other drones
9. DJI MT2SD Mini 2 SE Drone
The DJI MT2SD Mini 2 SE is a high-end drone that offers top-of-the-line features and capabilities. It has a 4K camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 31 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 10 kilometers and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the DJI MT2SD Mini 2 SE is one of the best drones on the market. The drone has a 3-axis gimbal that helps ensure stable footage and smooth flights. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and GPS-assisted hover.
One of the standout features of the DJI MT2SD Mini 2 SE is its compact size and lightweight design. The drone can be easily taken with you wherever you go, making it an excellent option for travel and on-the-go photography.
Pros
- High-quality 4K camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 31 minutes
- Range of up to 10 kilometers
- 3-axis gimbal for stable footage and smooth flights
- Altitude hold and GPS-assisted hover for easier flying
- Compact size and lightweight design for easy portability
Cons
- Expensive compared to some other drones
10. Potensic T25 Drone with 2K Camera
The Potensic T25 is a mid-range drone that offers a number of features and capabilities that make it a great option for aerial photography and videography. It has a 2K camera that can shoot video at 30 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 10 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 300 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the Potensic T25 is a solid performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
One of the standout features of the Potensic T25 is its GPS system, which helps ensure stable flights and enables features like automatic return to home and follow me modes.
Pros
- 2K camera that shoots video at 30 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 10 minutes
- Range of up to 300 meters
- GPS system for stable flights and automatic return to home/follow me modes
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- May be more difficult to control for beginners
- Some users have reported issues with the app and connectivity
11. EXO X7 Ranger Plus – High End Camera Drone
The EXO X7 Ranger Plus is a high-end drone that offers top-of-the-line features and capabilities. It has a 4K camera that can shoot video at 60 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 25 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 5 kilometers and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the EXO X7 Ranger Plus is one of the best drones on the market. The drone has a 3-axis gimbal that helps ensure stable footage and smooth flights. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and GPS-assisted hover.
One of the standout features of the EXO X7 Ranger Plus is its advanced obstacle avoidance system, which uses both infrared sensors and optical sensors to help prevent collisions. This makes it an excellent option for flying in more crowded or complex environments.
Pros
- High-quality 4K camera that shoots video at 60 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 25 minutes
- Range of up to 5 kilometers
- 3-axis gimbal for stable footage and smooth flights
- Altitude hold and GPS-assisted hover for easier flying
- Advanced obstacle avoidance system for added safety
Cons
- Expensive compared to some other drones
- May be more difficult to control for beginners
12. ATTOP 1080P FPV Drones
The ATTOP 1080P FPV drone is a budget-friendly option for those looking to get into drone flying and photography/videography. It has a 1080p camera that can shoot video at 25 frames per second and a maximum flight time of 10 minutes. The drone also has a range of up to 100 meters and can be controlled via an app on your smartphone.
In terms of performance, the ATTOP 1080P FPV drone is a solid performer for its price range. The drone has a 6-axis gyro that helps ensure stable flights, even in windy conditions. It also has a number of features that make it easier to fly, including altitude hold and headless mode.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive drones, the ATTOP 1080P FPV drone is a great option for beginners or those looking for a smaller drone for casual use.
Pros
- Budget-friendly option
- 1080p camera that shoots video at 25 fps
- Long maximum flight time of 10 minutes
- Range of up to 100 meters
- Altitude hold and headless mode for easier flying
Cons
- May not have the same level of performance or features as more expensive drones
- Some users have reported issues with the app and connectivity
Overall, there are a wide range of drones available for under $500, each with their own set of features and capabilities. It’s important to consider factors like camera quality, flight time, and range when choosing a drone that will best fit your needs. With the right drone, you can capture stunning aerial footage and take your photography and videography to new heights.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many great drones available for under $500 that offer a range of features and capabilities. From beginner-friendly options like the Holy Stone HS710 and Potensic T25 to more advanced models like the DJI MT2SD Mini 2 SE and EXO X7 Ranger Plus, there is a drone on this list for every skill level and use case. Whether you’re looking to capture stunning aerial footage or simply want to have fun flying a drone, these options provide excellent value for their price point.
FAQs
When choosing a drone under $500, consider factors like camera quality, flight time, range, and ease of use. Think about what features are most important to you and how you plan to use the drone.
Cheaper drones can still offer great value and performance, but they may not have all the same features or capabilities as more expensive models. It’s important to find a drone that meets your needs and fits your budget.
While some of these drones offer high-quality cameras and features, they may not be suitable for professional-level work. Consider your specific needs and requirements before choosing a drone for professional use.
Learning to fly a drone can vary depending on your experience and skill level. It’s important to take the time to learn the basics and practice in a safe and open area before attempting more complex flights.
No, there may be restrictions on where you can fly a drone, including in certain airspace or near airports. It’s important to research and follow local regulations and guidelines when flying a drone.
While some of these drones may be suitable for indoor use, it’s important to consider the size and space available before attempting to fly indoors. It’s also important to practice safe and responsible flying at all times.
If you encounter issues with your drone, consult the user manual and troubleshooting guide first. If the issue persists, contact the manufacturer or customer support for assistance. It’s important to address any issues promptly to ensure safe and effective flying.
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