Best Drones for Beginners in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best drones for every beginner's need.
Published: May 30th, 2024

šŸšDrones are all the rage these days, offering new ways to capture stunning aerial photos and videos. But if you're just starting out, the sheer number of options can be a bit much. Thatā€™s where we come in.

Weā€™ve dug into the top drone experts' recommendations to bring you the best beginner drones of 2024. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly, feature-packed, or super specialized options, weā€™ve got picks tailored just for you.

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Overall Best: DJI Mini 3

DJI Mini 3, Drones with Camera for Adults 4K, 38-min Flight Time, up to 32800ft (10km) Video Transmission, True Vertical Shooting, GPS Auto Return Integrated, Mini Drone with Camera for Beginners

When it comes to the best overall drone for beginners, the DJI Mini 3 takes the top spot. Its lightweight and compact design (under 250g) exempts it from FAA registration, making it hassle-free for new pilots. The Mini 3 is equipped with user-friendly controls and boasts impressive camera capabilities, capturing stunning 4K video and 12MP photos. This drone also features intelligent flight modes that make flying easier and more enjoyable. With a lengthy flight time of up to 38 minutes, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore and capture incredible footage. According to user reviews, its stability and ease of use are particularly praised, making it a favorite among first-time flyers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$394.00 at Amazon

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Runner-up: Autel Evo Nano+

Autel Robotics EVO Nano+(Plus) Drone Standard,249g Foldable Drone with 3-Axis Gimbal Camera,3D Obstacle Avoidance,RYYB,1/1.28CMOS,PDAF + CDAF Dual Focus,50MP Photos,28 Mins Flight Time by Autel EVO Nano Plus Orange

The Autel Evo Nano+ is a fantastic runner-up, offering slightly higher-end features that justify its price. This drone features a top-notch 4K camera with excellent low-light performance, perfect for capturing stunning images at sunrise or sunset. One of its standout features is three-way obstacle avoidance, a rarity in beginner drones, which ensures a safer flying experience. Weighing just 249 grams, the Evo Nano+ also avoids FAA registration requirements. Although its flight time is slightly shorter at 28 minutes, this drone offers a balanced mix of advanced features and beginner-friendly operation, making it a robust alternative to the DJI Mini 3.

Available at Amazon
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More Answers

Still curious about the Autel EVO Nano+ Orange Drone? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What is the battery life of the Autel EVO Nano+ drone?
So, you're wondering about how long the Autel EVO Nano+ drone can stay airborne? Based on our research, it comes with a 2250mAh battery, which the manufacturer says can keep the drone flying for up to 28 minutes on a single charge. Realistically though, things like wind, how fast you're zooming around, and using features like obstacle avoidance can cut into that a bit. People generally seem pretty happy with how long the battery lasts, especially if you're out and about and don't have a spot to plug in. But just a heads-upā€”what the specs say and what you actually get can sometimes be different, so maybe look into picking up some [spare batteries](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddrone%2Bspare%2Bbatteries%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) if you're planning to fly for longer stretches. In short, while the EVO Nano+'s battery life is solid, actual flight durations might vary. Adding extra batteries to your kit could help you stay in the air longer and make the most of your flying sessions. All in all, the battery life is a nice plus for anyone who loves diving into drone adventures!
šŸš
Is the Autel EVO Nano+ easy to fly for beginners?
So, if you're just starting out with drones, the Autel EVO Nano+ could be a solid pick. It's got a reputation for being beginner-friendly, which makes it a nice option if you're new to flying. Plus, it's lightweight enough that you don't need to register it with the FAA in the U.S., so that's one less thing to worry about! What makes it especially good for beginnersā€”besides skipping the paperworkā€”is that it has some cool features. According to our research, it's got a 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor and an advanced RYYB color filter that boost video quality, especially when lighting isn't great. If you're into shooting videos during sunsets or in low light, you'll probably find it way more capable than you'd expect. Now about the batteryā€”this can sometimes be a bit confusing. The manufacturer lists the battery capacity as 2250 milliamp hours, which translates to a flight time of about 28 minutes under ideal conditions. That should give you plenty of time to learn the controls and capture some awesome footage. Still, it's always a good idea to double-check these numbers with either the manufacturer or a reputable retailer to avoid any surprises when you buy it. The drone also has some intelligent flight modes that make controlling it easier. These modes let you capture some pretty professional-looking shots without needing to master complicated drone piloting skills first. Its stabilization features help make it forgiving for those still getting used to keeping it steady. And hey, if you have questions or need more info about your drone, don't hesitate to reach out to your retailer or [Autel Robotics](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dautel%2Brobotics%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) directly. They're usually pretty good about helping you out so that your first flights are both fun and safe. Enjoy flying!
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How good is the camera on the Autel EVO Nano+ drone?
If you're considering the Autel EVO Nano+ drone mainly for its camera, you're probably in for a treat. From what we've found, it has a 1/1.28-inch RYYB CMOS sensor and a wide f/1.9 aperture, which sounds pretty impressive. This setup lets you capture detailed 50MP photos and sharp 4K videos. One of the great things about this sensor is how it handles low-light conditions. Unlike the usual RGB sensors, the RYYB design captures more light, making it awesome for night photography and video. It seems to even outperform models like the [DJI Mini 3](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDJI%2BMini%2B3%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) in nighttime shooting, according to some reviews we checked out. Along with its camera, the EVO Nano+ features a 3D obstacle avoidance system. In simpler terms, it uses sensors to spot obstacles in its path, which helps keep your flights smoother and safer. Just a heads-up, though: our research indicates that some folks found it had limitations, especially in busy environments where you might still need to steer manually. The manufacturer has been working on updates to improve this, so it's worth staying updated if you're flying in tricky spots. When it comes to cost, the EVO Nano+ tends to be on the pricier side, around $949. We've seen some opinions suggesting it might be hard to justify the price compared to something like the [DJI Mini 3 Pro](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDJI%2BMini%2B3%2BPro%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). But, the EVO Nano+ does bring some unique perks, like not needing FAA registration because of its lightweight 249g build, and it comes in several vibrant colors. As for battery life, you're looking at about 28 minutes of flight time under the right conditions, which holds up pretty well against its competition. So, if you're all about capturing low-light scenes, love the idea of a lightweight design that skips FAA paperwork, and want some nifty safety features, the EVO Nano+ might just be your droneā€”especially if you find it at a decent price. It has some cool features that really stand out if you have specific needs this drone covers.
View All Answers for

šŸ’ø
Budget Pick: Ryze Tello

Tello Quadcopter Drone with HD Camera and VR,Powered by DJI Technology and Intel Processor,Coding Education,DIY Accessories,Throw and Fly (with Extra Battery)

If you're looking for an affordable entry into the world of drones, the Ryze Tello is an unbeatable budget pick. This drone is designed with beginners in mind, featuring a 720p HD camera and a 13-minute flight time. The Ryze Tello is controlled via a smartphone app, which makes it incredibly intuitive and easy to operate. It also includes intelligent flight modes, such as Throw & Go, 8D Flips, and Bounce Mode, adding a fun, educational element for new pilots. Lightweight and durable, the Tello is perfect for casual flights and learning the basics without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$159.00 at Amazon

Best FPV Drone: BetaFPV Cetus X Kit

BETAFPV Betaflight ELRS V3 Cetus X FPV Kit with LiteRadio 3 Transmitter C04 Camera VR03 Goggles with DVR Recording Function, Supported 2S Power Advanced RTF Kit for FPV Beginners to Fly Faster Further

For those interested in the immersive experience of first-person view (FPV) flying, the BetaFPV Cetus X Kit is a superb choice. This all-in-one package provides everything a beginner needs, including the drone, transmitter, and FPV goggles. The Cetus X is known for being more powerful than typical entry-level FPV models, offering several flight modes and speed settings. These features provide room for growth as your skills improve. Reviewers particularly note its robust build and user-friendly interface, making it an excellent starting point for budding FPV enthusiasts.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$288.99 at Amazon

Best for Aerial Selfies: HoverAir X1

X1 Drone with Camera, Self-Flying Camera Drone with Follow Me Mode, Foldable Mini Drone with HDR Video Capture, Palm Takeoff, Intelligent Flight Paths, Hands-Free Control Black (Combo) Combo Black

The HoverAir X1 is ideal for capturing aerial selfies, combining ease of use with strong performance. This compact drone offers automated takeoff and landing, which can be done from the palm of your hand. It captures high-quality 2.7K video and 12MP photos, supported by effective subject tracking features. The built-in propeller guards enhance safety, making the HoverAir X1 an excellent choice for those new to flying drones. According to user feedback, its simplicity and reliability make it a standout for quick, on-the-go aerial shots.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$399.00 at Amazon
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šŸ„‡ ShopSavvy Best Picks
Expert recommendations for the best overall, budget, and specialized product picks.
Our researchers bring you our top recommendations. Each article usually highlights the best overall choice, a budget-friendly option, and picks for specific needs, helping you shop smarter and with confidence.

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