US Marines Successfully Created a 3D Printed Drone

As far as drone manufacturing goes, this is undoubtedly the hottest news this week. US Marines Corps in partnership with Autodesk have successfully created a brand new drone using 3D printing technology. This drone will, of course, be used for military purposes as an effective replacement for current, much more expensive to produce, models.

Nicknamed Scout, the first 3D printed military drone now awaits further testing and search for possible improvements as USMC and Autodesk just announced the forming of a successful project. This could mean Scout is just the first of many drones that are going to shape up US drone lineup.

USA has a huge number of military drones

It’s true – the USA has the largest number of military drones in the world. And we are not talking about those small drones most of you already have pictured in their heads. Nope. These are huge vehicles, able to operate on a much larger scale than civil ones. They’re the pinnacle of modern-day aviation technology and as such, they are not to be taken for granted.

Especially considering that the USA is carrying out drone-based military missions almost on a daily basis. Scroll back all the way to 2002 and we’ll see the first USA military drone mission. It was actually a counterterrorism strike against members of Al-Qaeda using an incredible drone (back then) called Predator. Since then, it’s safe to say that the USA has started using drones much more frequently. Things improved even more with Obama administration which further increased the number of drone missions…

USMC and Autodesk are shaping up counterterrorism

Back to topic! Scout could, in fact, shape up the not only the future of US air force but the future of counterterrorism as well. But that’s not even the best part… The entire manufacturing process behind Scout leads to an amazing cost of just $613. This number looks even more amazing when compared to the cost of current drones that are going to be replaced with Scout clones. Approximately $30,000 in comparison to $613. Now that’s the best deal in t he whole history of deals, right?

When it comes to the specifications, we can only guess what this birdie will be capable of. But, as far as the design and few other traits are concerned, we actually have some valuable information. Scout is actually a relatively small fixed-wing drone. Its main usage will be surveillance and possibly the identification of possible threats via sophisticated imaging systems. It weights much less than current ones and takes only 3 minutes to fully assemble it. Best of all – it snaps apart into several parts, allowing transport in a mere field pack.

Who created Scout?

The brain behind this whole idea of a 3D printable surveillance drone is Rhet McNeal. He is a 26-year old Marine who graduated in Aerospace Engineering at Georgia Tech. This entire project started off after Mcneal’s proposal won the USMC Logistics Innovation award. That win lead him to apply (and win) 4-month residency at Pier 9 where he finished his design and created The Scout. The rest will, I’m sure, be history…

The post US Marines Successfully Created a 3D Printed Drone appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

Drones To Study Weather During the Eclipse

As far as cool things go, drones are definitely really high up on that list. The matter is that much cooler when you add the presence of a freaking solar eclipse. And that combination is going live in just a few days…

When and where will this solar eclipse take place?

For those of you who are not familiar with the topic, believe it or not – USA (well, technically entire North America) will experience the first total solar eclipse in 38 years! It’s an amazing phenomenon that happens just every so often which makes it that much more enjoyable.

All over the States, many people are already preparing to watch the eclipse at an excellent location… but with the most recent news, it seems as though several drones will land the best seats.

What will drones do during the solar eclipse?

As the title of this article suggests, several drones will be sent out to study weather changes during the eclipse. If you want a more precise explanation, read the next paragraph below this one.

For now, all you should know is that… no… these drones probably won’t take close up shots of the eclipse. As a matter of fact, drones with zoom cameras are not that common meaning the idea of close-up ends right there.

Jokes aside, this study will actually be of much help to atmospheric scientists who will have one in a lifetime opportunity to get direct readings off the eclipse for their studies. I doubt data analysis will take too long so we’ll get some concrete evidence of weather changes caused by the eclipse by the end of this year presumably.

What’s the story behind this “experiment”?

This experiment is part of the Collaboration Leading Operational Unmanned Development for Meteorology and Atmospheric Physics” (CLOUD MAP) project. With combined efforts from 4 universities, their respective scientists are trying to paint the dots between drones and weather studies. In other words, they’re trying to come up with new ways drones could be used for studying various weather phenomenon.

They consider drones to be ideal for these sorts of studies since they are able to effectively fly in the lower atmosphere. This is slightly below the height of commercial airplanes which means they won’t endanger their flights during their missions. Furthermore, drones are relatively cheap to properly set up and take off into a mission. However, don’t take these hexacopters for granted. If they’re relatively cheap for universities, it doesn’t mean they’re affordable to an average Joe.

As a matter of fact, drones that will be used for this mission will fly equipped with a whole heap of ultrasonic sensors. Top that off with infrared cameras and sophisticated systems for collecting temperature, humidity and pressure data and you’ll realize we are talking about state of the art drone technology.

What results are we hoping to find out?

As far as the results are concerned, there are many things this drone mission could unveil. However, the most important one is definitely their data collecting task which will help bring light to certain weather phenomena that occur with the day/night cycle. We are talking about horrific weather scenarios including tornados, typhoons and so on.

In other words, these drones will be sent out before, during and after the eclipse to form a comprehensive structure of readings for further analysis. During the eclipse, the air will slightly cool down since there’s no direct contact from the Sun.. and it seems as though scientists are sure these readings could leave to potential breakthroughs in their fields.

While I don’t know much about science, what I do know is that this mission seems EPIC AF!

The post Drones To Study Weather During the Eclipse appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

8 Drones than can be controlled by a smartphone (Fully or partially)

Even though over 80% of modern day drones rely on RC controllers, there are some of them who work solely through dedicated smartphone apps. This new way of controlling devices over short distances brought new opportunities and ideas to drone market. But, is it an ideal approach to, what seems to be, an already well-established RC technology? Well, in order to find out we need to take a closer look at the differences between RC and phone controlled drones!

Table Of Contents :

1. Fully mobile phone Controlled Drones

2. Partially mobile phone Controlled Drones

Smartphone controlled drones vs standard RC drones

In terms of actual technology that differentiates these 2 controlling methods, the superior one is clearly full RC control that works over 2.4 ghz frequency. To put it simply, this is because RC frequencies have a much longer range than Bluetooth or WiFi which are 2 most frequently used types of connections with smartphone controlled drones. But, longer range is not the only reason why I firmly believe standard RC drones are indeed superior over their smartphone controlled counterparts.

Picture this – you’re flying your brand-new smartphone controlled drone for the first time in FPV mode. You are enjoying the view and casually strolling above your backyard with ease. And then, all of a sudden you lose control of your UAV because you accidentally pressed the wrong axis on your smartphone’s touch display. This is going to happen more often than you’d think. Why? Well, because the feedback of a smartphone’s touch screen is not nearly as coherent as that on a fully-fledged RC controller. It is easy to lose track of where your fingers are located on the screen which is not the case on standard controllers… And that’s why, boys and girls, it is better to have a standard RC controller that gives you full range of movement over all available axis.

On the other hand, there are models on this list that rely on both RC and smartphone controls. These types of drones are usually much more expensive than “smartphone only” models… but the price is a proper measurement for quality. You see, these types of drones use RC controllers for accurate tasks such as manual flying, aerial photography… and basically everything that includes human factor. On the other hand, these drones also come with dedicated apps that allow you to use more advanced (frequently fully autonomous) in-flight features. This includes various smart flight modes, GPS settings, telemetry and is generally very helpful in the long run, especially when you get accustomed to the app and you want to get the very best out of your drone.

With that in mind, I would like to take you through both of these drone types so you can conclude which one is the right for you! So, without much further adue, let’s dig into the lists!

 

Fully phone controlled drones :

Name	Image	Camera	Range	Flight time	Price
DJI Spark		1080p	2000m	15min	See price now
Wingsland s6		4k	100m	8min	See price now
Parrot AR 2.0		720p	50m	10min	See price now
Kidcia		2MP	50m	8min	See price now
Contixo Mini		0.3MP	30m	7min	See price now

DJI Spark

DJI’s newest masterpiece of a drone is called the Spark, and needless to say – it is quite the beast. The shipping process has just started after a long preorder period so now is the right time to get one of these bad boys. At the moment, you can buy it in 2 packages. The standard one will get you only the drone while the second one (also known as DJI Spark Fly More Combo) will get you a couple of awesome accessories including the dedicated DJI Spark controller. Additionally, you’ll also get an extra battery, prop guards, charging hub and a tiny shoulder bag for easier carrying (don’t confuse this with DJI Spark cases though, this is a mere carrying bag).

When it comes to the drone itself, there’s no doubt it beats all other miniature (selfie) drones on the market. It’s just a tiny bit bigger than your everyday smartphone. To be more precise, this little fella is 143×143×55 mm and its weight is only 300 grams which makes it one of the smallest drones available on the market. But, despite its ridiculous size, this drone has quite a lot of power underneath the hood. You see, it sports a powerful 1480mAh 11.4V 3S LiPo battery which can power it up to 15 minutes of active flying. While this is nowhere near, let’s say, DJI Mavic Pro’s performance, we are talking about an even smaller drone whose competitors are still nowhere near in terms of flight time. Operating range (when paired up with its dedicated controller) goes up to approximately 2 kilometers which is miles (figuratively and realistically) ahead of similarly sized competition. Camera is breathtaking too. You’ll get a full HD sensor that incorporates an integrated 2-axis gimbal for stabilization purposes. Needless to say, the image quality is brilliant and will make up for great selfies (or even semiprofessional aerial photos) at any given time.

When it comes to features that rely on DJI GO app (both iOS and Android controlled drone although you can expect a more fluent experience on Apple’s devices), Spark shines with full light. The main smart features on this little fella are TapFly and ActiveTrack which allow you to set up waypoints for Spark to follow or select an object/person as a point of interest for tracking purposes. Additionally, DJI GO app also allows you to launch and control Spark with your bare hands, allowing for an amazing handsfree experience. With simple gestures, you can control its flight which will serve as a great trick for family gatherings.

Oooops, it seems to me that I’ve overdid it with DJI Spark description so I will just causally move on to the next drone on this list…

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Wingsland s6

Wingsland S6 is a miniature, foldable drone that can, in fact, boast with a premium tag to its name. Even though it costs right around the $250-mark, Wingsland S6 is actually somewhat on par with DJI Spark which costs double the money. What exactly am I talking about? Well, here’s the deal…

First thing first, Wingsland S6 sports an extraordinary 4K camera that, unfortunately, does not sport hardware stabilization system as DJI Spark. However, 4K resolution beats Spark’s 1080p but the image quality is rather similar. I’d even go out on a limb and say that Spark fares a bit better but solely due to amazing video smoothness provided by its 1-axis gimbal.

Moving on, Wingsland S6 can go as far as 100 meters away from the controlling smartphone. Oh, I almost forgot to mention this birdie can be controlled only with the provided smartphone app (Android and iOS compatible). The included 1400mAh 2S LiPo battery is powerful enough to provide with decent throttle. More importantly, it is able to provide around 8 to 10 minutes of flight time. Even though that’s still cca 5 minutes less than Spark, it’s still a good number nevertheless. In terms of features, Wingsland S6 boasts with GPS, omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system, cloud sharing, follow, auto return to home and several other autonomous flight options including, of course, selfie mode.

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Parrot AR 2.0

Moving forward to next drone, we have the AR 2.0 by Parrot, a worldwide popular drone manufacturer. This drone looks incredibly sleek and incorporates thick, durable prop guards that are built in around the drone’s frame. They provide a massive amount of impact protection and are there to ensure your propellers (as well as the centerpiece of your drone) are 100% safe at all times. Still, this is not an invitation to smash Parrot AR 2.0 straight into a wall at full speed as that would probably render it unusable… plus your warranty won’t cover it.

Parrot AR 2.0 is controlled with their FreeFlight app… But unfortunately, I have some bad news for you guys. Since Parrot AR 2.0 is a pretty old drone, the folks over at Parrot decided to drop any further updates to their app. This means there will be no more patches available and the current version of the app is as good as it gets. But, there’s a bright side to this story as well. You see, there are good people on the internet who found a way to crack open FreeFlight’s code and change it to their liking. This resulted in support for game controllers (for example PS3 controller) which basically allows you to control AR 2.0 with a fully-fledged controller instead of tapping on your smartphone’s display. Button mapping is completely adjustable and there are several new updates to this modified FreeFlight app. Current version is 2.4.10 and sports plenty of fixes as well as hover lock toggle. Keep in mind that you will have to force install this .apk to your Android smartphone/tablet in order to get it work properly. Luckily, it’s an easy process, in a matter of minutes you’ll be flying your first android controlled drone!

Moving forward to the actual drone, Parrot AR 2.0 has a 720p camera which is pretty solid in terms of image quality. With the help of FreeFlight app you can enjoy live FPV stream and record the footage directly to your smartphone/tablet. On the other hand, biggest downside of this little fella is its extremely short operating range (like I already said above, that’s the biggest downside of all smartphone powered models at the moment) of just 50 meters. On the bright side, you can fly this baby around for roughly 10-12 minutes which isn’t half bad. All things considered, even though its outdated, Parrot AR 2.0 still looks like a solid drone, especially if you use that modified FreeFlight app with controller support.

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Kidcia Quadcopter with FPV

Now we are moving onto much cheaper alternatives which, truth be told, aren’t meant for anything but casual flying over your backyard. First in line is Kidcia’s FPV quadcopter that has a lot of interesting features, but doesn’t really perform that well. Why is that so? Well, let’s start off with its features and then we’ll move onto the drawbacks!

Features include headless mode which furthermore supports one key return to home function. Don’t confuse this one with GPS RTH as it’s nowhere near as reliable. Additionally, Kidcia also implemented altitude hold feature as well as a really interesting one called Gravity Sensor Mode. This essentially allows you to control your drone by moving your smartphone in desired direction. But, that’s not all – Kidcia’s drone also possesses Track Controlled mode which mimics Waypoints feature on high end devices, allowing you to draw a path for your drone to follow.

Now I’m going to tell you a bit more about its drawbacks. First of all, it is powered by a mere 850mAh LiPo battery which can power it up for roughly 8 to 10 minutes which is way below Spark’s numbers. Additionally, operating distance goes on for roughly 60-70 meters (in my own personal experience) even though the official specifications claim 100 meters. I’ve also got some bad news for all of you wanting to enjoy FPV with Kidcia’s quadcopter – video transmission range is only cca 20 meters which is way below my initial expectations…

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Contixo Mini Drone

And the last “smartphone only” drone in this section of my article is made by Contixo. First of all, I have to mention that this little guy is incredibly easy to fly. As a matter of fact, its makers are claiming it is the World’s Easiest Fly App Controlled Mini Drone… and believe it or not, that’s not a bold claim. But, is it really the worlds easiest to fly drone? Well, that’s what you’ll be able to find out in the next couple of paragraphs.

Quite frankly, this drone isn’t exactly the easiest to fly drone out there since there are high end models that can easily sweep the floor with it. But, for the price it goes for, it is absolutely at the very top. It sports the same track controlled mode which allows you to draw out a flying path but with a really intuitive app supporting it. Likewise, it’s also important to note Contixo features altitude hold as well as one key landing/takeoff functions as well, which make up for an additional ease-of-use factor.

One thing that I almost forgot to mention is its miniature HD camera. Interesting fact – it supports FPV but only up to 20 meters. If you think that’s low, operating range is just 30 meters which doesn’t breathe much confidence in its specifications. Flight time of roughly 7 minutes continues in the same fashion leading me to think that Contixo isn’t really a good drone to begin with. So, with all that in mind, if you’re looking for a cheap smartphone controlled drone, you’ll be better off with Kidcia’s model…

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Partially smartphone controlled drones :

Name	Image	Camera	Range	Flight time	Price
DJI Mavic Pro		4k	6000m	25min	See price now
3DR Solo		GoPro	800m	20min	See price now
Yuneec Typhoon H		4k	2000m	25min	See price now
DJI Phantom 4 Pro		4k	6000m	25min	See price now

DJI Mavic Pro

Finally, we have reached the big guns. First up, we have the amazing DJI Mavic Pro, a small drone that packs quite a bit of firepower. In fact, it packs a lot better hardware than most other big boy drones featured on this list. With that said, it comes as no surprise that it’s priced at a premium price tag too. So, what does it have to offer to its users?

First of all, I would like to point out that Mavic Pro, just like all other models on this list, uses both RC and app for controlling purposes. When it comes to the RC controller, it is used for precise movements and photography calibrations both of which have a solid learning curve. On the other hand, DJI GO app works seamlessly with all modern devices with the exception of Windows Phone… but come on, who on Earth uses that anyways… Moving forward, it is also worth mentioning a whole specter of functionalities that are brought to life with DJIU GO app. This is nothing new – DJI GO app is the centerpiece around which all new DJI drones are based. From takeoff, landing, smart flight modes, telemetry (we are talking about really detailed telemetry info) to image adjustments and recognition software… DJI Mavic Pro does it all.

Specifications-wise, this little fella can reach up to 7 kilometers and fly for roughly 27 minutes. Needless to say, those numbers are extremely high and put DJI Mavic Pro way ahead of similarly sized competition… and on par with most other big drones out there… And let’s not forget about the 4K camera which serves as a great aerial photography solution All in all, if you are looking for an outright awesome drone and you don’t know which one to go for, DJI Mavic Pro seems like a great option!

Show me the best price for : United States

 

3DR Solo

Next up we have the Solo made by 3D Robotics. This little drone might not be as popular as the other 3 featured on this list, but it sure as hell can perform greatly for the money it costs. While we are discussing its price tag, it is important to note that 3DR Solo is by far the cheapest drone in this list. Both DJI’s model (Mavic Pro and P4 Pro) and Yuneec Typhoon H cost around the thousand-dollar mark while 3DR Solo isn’t shy by being slightly under $250. Yup, that’s right – 3DR Solo costs less than DJI Spark. But, with such a small price tag, can it offer decent performance?

When it comes to controlling options, 3DR Solo grants you a responsive console-style controller as well as a dedicated 3DR Solo app for both Android and iOS platforms. With the app, you are able to unleash Solo’s full potential with a wide array of available features. These features include one touch aerial selfies, smart flight options such as Cable Cam, Follow Me, Orbit and more. Tethering process is quite simple and requires only 2 steps to fully connect your drone to the app.

In terms of specifications, you can expect roughly 15 to 20 minutes of active flying and approximately 800 meters of operating range. Unfortunately, it does not come with a camera but possesses a GoPro mount (you can even buy a 3-axis GoPro gimbal separately) which will surely satisfy your aerial photography needs. So, with all that being said, at such a low price point, I consider 3DR Solo a proper steal!

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Yuneec Typhoon H

Now we are going to take a closer look at one of the most underappreciated drones currently available on the market. Of course, I am talking about none other than Yuneec Typhoon H, an outright awesome drone that just can’t get the attention it deserves. Even though this little guy can provide with similar performance just like some of DJI’s flagship models (and is priced slightly below them), it lacks proper marketing to build up its fame…

If you’re wondering about the controller, I reckon you will be more than happy to know this baby comes packed with Android powered ST16 controller with a fully-fledged 7-inch integrated touchscreen display. With the dedicated app, Yuneec Typhoon H shines in full light since it can do all sorts of advanced flying modes such as Orbit, Point of Interest, Journey Mode, Curve Cable Cam and plenty more interesting features.

When it comes to the hardware inside, Yuneec Typhoon H runs on 14.8V 5400mAh Li Po 4S battery which can hold it in the air for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Additionally, it has 2 kilometers of flying range and is equipped with an awesome 4K camera. Needless to say, this combination of features and specifications is why I believe Yuneec Typhoon H to be an exceptional drone that can make all of you pretty happy with its performance.

Show me the best price for : United States

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro

Last but certainly not the least we have DJI Phantom 4 Pro, at the moment the most known drone in the entire world. Without a doubt, I am sure most of you already know your fair share of information about this one. It’s has been receiving a massive amount of publicity through various forms of media so it’s quite a household name. With that said, is it really that good as everyone claims it is? Well, why don’t we find out!

As was the case with Spark and Mavic Pro, DJI Phantom 4 Pro also has a plethora of additional features (and in-flight information) available through the dedicated DJI GO app. Of course, it works with both Android and iOS devices (smartphones and tablets) so you’ll be all set to get the full potential out of this bad boy. These additional features include detailed flight information (battery level, altitude, distance, radar display, flying speed etc) as well as plenty of image customization, extra smart features at the tip of your fingers…

Likewise, specifications are nothing short of outstanding either. You’re looking at a 5870mAh smart LiPo battery capable of enduring more than 25 minutes in the air which should be more than enough for a fair share of aerial images and/or videos. When it comes to operating range, 7 kilometers is becoming a standard for all premium DJI models so it’s not that surprising to see that number on DJI Phantom 4 Pro. Considering this is a potent aerial photography platform, it is nice to see a 1-inch CMOS sensor capable of recording crystal clear 4K videos at buttery smooth 60fps. Slow motion is also available but at lower resolution (FHD or HD). With that said, I’ll leave you to admire the sheer brilliance of this model and slowly switch to the conclusion…

Show me the best price for : United States

 

Conclusion

With all that information about phone controlled drones coming to an end, it is time to wrap things up. Even though I’m clearly standing tall on the side of smartphone + RC controlled drones, don’t think that “smartphone only” models are useless. As you already had the chance to see, they’re all incredibly inexpensive (with the exception being DJI Spark which is sort of a hybrid between these 2 types). With that said, it’s only logical to expect they’re not going to be as “perfect” as those premium models from the second list. Both of them have unique uses. While smartphone powered drones are good for children and people looking to get into drone hobby, their high-end RC powered counterparts are good for professional work and more experienced users. So, depending on that, make sure you get this decision right before your purchase as it will greatly affect your drone piloting experience.

Until next time, happy flying!

DronesGlobe

The post 8 Drones than can be controlled by a smartphone (Fully or partially) appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

[Review] MJX Bugs 2w – Cheap & reliable GPS drone with FullHD camera

Hello ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls… and welcome to a very special review! In this article, I’m going to present you with another awesome drone made by the folks over at MJX. After a huge success they had with their Bugs 3 drone which captivated plenty of users all around the world, they’ve gathered their forces and made a well-built upgrade that definitely has a fair amount of potential.

That’s why, I decided it would be a good idea to give you an in-depth look at this birdie since it sports an aggressive price tag… especially considering the fact it’s a fully-fledged GPS drone. While there are several other models with similar prices and specifications (there will be a comparison later on, don’t worry), I am pretty sure MJX Bugs 2 will be on point with them. Since I can already see you guys are in a hurry to find out, I’ll skip with the introduction and head straight to MJX Bugs 2w review!

General info on MJX

MJX is definitely an up and coming drone brand. I’m sure most of you are familiar with their Bugs 3 model. They’ve had a fair share of success with it as it charmed the audience with its smooth flight and potential of being a great aerial photography platform when paired with a solid camera. Now, after collecting a nice bit of income from Bugs 3 sales, MJX has already finished making several new drones including the Bugs 2 series.

There are 2 available models at the moment – Bugs 2W and 2C. Even though they are relatively similar, there are certain differences which cannot go unmentioned. Considering this review will be focusing on MJX Bugs 2W, it’s only fair to give a small explanation related to the differences between these two. So, without further adue, let’s see what are these birdies all about!

MJX Bugs 2W vs 2C

First of all, you need to understand that both of these drones feature the same exact design. So, no different when it comes to build quality and aesthetics. However, there are slight differences in hardware inside. Even though they both sport roughly the same batteries, there’s a relatively big difference in charging time. While 2W charges up in 3 hours, 2C takes whopping 5 hours which is a bit too long for my taste.

Furthermore, the biggest and most notable difference between these two is the fact that 2W model incorporates FPV while 2C doesn’t share the same trait. The story here is somewhat similar to Hubsan H501S and H501C, with the only real difference being in the FPV capability of the former. So yeah – 2W has access to a Wi-Fi app (works on both Android and iOS devices) which supports streaming of live footage straight from your drone’s camera. Other than that, everything seems to be pretty much identical.

MJX Bugs 3 vs MJX Bugs 2W

MJX Bugs 2W review

After getting you familiar with both versions of MJX Bugs 2, it is time to take a closer look at one of them. Of course, I aimed high and put the focus on MJX Bugs 2W, which is far more superior than the C version. So, with that said, let’s take a closer look at this small WiFi quadcopter and see what’s it all about!

In addition to all standard specifications such as battery duration, operating range and camera, I’ll also give you some insights on how this birdie flies as well as give you a quick guide through its features. Finally, at the very end of this review you will also get some info on where to look for spare parts as well as short (but informative) comparisons against 2 of its main competitors at the moment. So, let’s stop with the introduction and jump straight to action!

Battery

If you’ve used MJX Bugs 3, then you will be familiar with the 2S 1800mAh LiPo battery that made its way inside. It’s a bit different design in question here, but it’s basically the same battery. If I remember correctly, MJX Bugs 3 could fly around for up to 15 minutes on a single charge. Thanks to a slightly lighter body, MJX Bugs 2W can endure up to 18 minutes… although that time will be slightly lowered if you plan on recording during its entire length.

Range

Given the fact MJX Bugs 2W has FPV capability, we’ll need to come up with 2 numbers for the range. First being operating range and second being FPV range. Starting off with the operating range, I was nicely surprised with how this baby went on about its business. Believe it or not, the specifications sheet claims it can reach 800 to 1000 meters. Truthfully, I haven’t tested that out yet… But what I can confirm is that it goes beyond 500 meter for sure. Around the 500-meter mark I lost line of sight so I had to click that Return to Home button in order to bring it safely back. In terms of FPV range, MJX is overly optimistic stating this thing can reach 500 meters. In reality, you’re looking at roughly 150 to 200 meters, and that’s on an open, unobstructed field.

Camera

In terms of camera, there is nothing that special about this one. Similarly to the 2 models we’ll be comparing it against down below, MJX Bugs 2W sports a built-in camera with no hardware image stabilization. It can record aerial videos in 1080p resolution at solid 30 frames per second. When it comes to image quality, things are looking great as long as you’re recording in daylight and with no strong wind present. Otherwise, you can expect a bit of jello in your footage, especially if you’re flying at an altitude higher than 50 meters.

Spare Parts

When it comes to spare parts, many of you will immediately be alarmed once they fail to find any. But, don’t worry, not everything has gone to shit. You see, even though there is not a huge market for MJX Bugs 2W spare parts, if you know what you’re looking for you are going to have no trouble finding the stuff you need. While things such as props, transparent light caps and batteries won’t be difficult to find, you might have issues with finding the proper motors since they aren’t labeled specifically for MJX Bugs 2W on most sites. But, a simple search for 1806 KV1800 Brushless motor will do the trick!

Features

Last but not least, let’s check out the brains of this beauty!

• Telemetry
  MJX Bugs 2W has telemetry data which it feed straight to that small LCD display on its controller. It’s rare to see telemetry at this price range, even in this limited edition which offers just a few information. Still, something is better than nothing as you will at least have information about current distance, altitude together with current GPS and 2.4G signal strength.
• GPS
  One of the best upgrades that have come with MJX Bugs 2W is definitely the introduction of GPS module. Needless to say, that offered doors to many features such as return to home and altitude hold, both of which we’ll discuss further below.
• Return to home
  Return to home is always the first thing I examine when I get my hands on a new drone. When it comes to Bugs 2W, I was amazed by the quality. You basically have GPS return to home (which is pinpoint accurate, I can assure you) and standard return to home which works well to an extent. You cannot expect pinpoint accuracy with it since it is not relying on GPS, but it’s still useful for getting your drone out of sticky situations.
• Altitude hold
  Even though lots of people take this feature for granted (mostly because they haven’t tried it out yet), I have to tell you it’s one of the best things for beginners. It relieves the tension when you’re flying, allowing you to release the throttle without your drone slimming downwards in a dangerous manner. Instead, your drone will keep balancing out its props and remain stationary at a fixed point of your choice. Awesome, right?
• FPV
  Like it was already mentioned above, the key difference between MJX Bugs 2W and 2C was 2W’s FPV capability. Of course, we are talking about mere WiFi FPV which is usually pretty bad; not only because of low range but because of input lag as well. When it comes to B2W, the FPV is actually quite nice for a WiFi powered one. It doesn’t lag too much but, best of all, it works over 100 meters (150 to 200 if we are to be more precise) which is a rare occurrence for WiFi FPV systems.

MJX Bugs 2W vs competition :

Now that we are done with the actual review portion of this article, it is time to do a few comparisons against other similarly priced models. To be more precise, there are 2 comparisons below that will put the performance of MJX Bugs 2W on the line against Cheerson CX 23 and Hubsan H501S. I’m sure most of you are aware both these drones offer great value for money. But, how does MJX Bugs 2W compare to them? That’s exactly what you will be able to find out in the next 2 paragraphs!

 

MJX Bugs 2W vs Hubsan H501S

If we are to look at these 2 drones side by side, we would be sure we’re looking at 2 same drones. They’re identical in terms of size but also look like one another in terms of their bodies and camera positions. But, don’t let that fool you – they are 2 very different drones.

If I had to choose between one of these two, I admit that would be a pretty tough nut to crack. You see, their cameras are similar, their flight times are similar… but MJX Bugs 2W has significantly larger range. While Hubsan H501S can barely reach 300 meters, B2W goes up to 800 (or even 1000) with ease. However, Hubsan H501S has 5.8G FPV compared to WiFi on B2W. So, that’s a point for H501S. But… considering MJX’s drone is much faster and more agile, I think, at the end of the day, I’d settle for it.

 

MJX Bugs 2W vs Cheerson CX 23

Now let’s take a look at another top contender – Cheerson CX 23. First things first – camera on B2W is much sharper and generally provides better images and videos. That’s partially due to higher resolution sensor which captures 1080p instead of 720p, which is max resolution for CX 23.

Moving forward, it’s also noteworthy to add that Cheerson CX 23 also possesses 5.8 FPV just like Hubsan H501S. While that will be a massive plus for people wanting a small FPV racer, for people who are more orientated to learning aerial photography, this will be a mere trivial matter. One thing you should definitely take into consideration is flight time. You see, MJX B2W can go up to 18 minutes while CX 23 sports 14 minutes at best… and that’s without FPV or camera being used. And finally, if we take a look at operating ranges of these 2 birdies, we’ll come to the conclusion that B2W wins the race in this department as well.

 

Conclusion

That’s it, guys! With those 2 comparisons, I believe I’ve covered everything there is to know about this little bugger. So once again, I truly believe MJX Bugs 2W has what it takes to become an absolute champion in this price range. Like you had the chance to see above, MJX Bugs 2W is on point with Hubsan H501S and Cheerson CX 23, both of which are enjoying quite the popularity in this segment of drones market.

So, what I am basically trying to say here is this – If MJX does a good job with marketing, I’m positive their MJX Bugs 2W (and perhaps 2C as well) will get plenty of sales as well as satisfied customers who’ll spread the word of its performance.

If you’re planning on buying this drone and that’s how you stumbled upon this article, I’d like to say that you won’t regret purchasing MJX Bugs 2W. It’s a fantastic little drone that doesn’t aim too high… but just enough to capture your attention and take you for a wild spin!

Kudos to MJX and thank you guys for reading!

The post [Review] MJX Bugs 2w – Cheap & reliable GPS drone with FullHD camera appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

AirDog ADII has reached their goal in a Kickstarter campaign! What do you need to know about this action drone?

After a lengthy Kickstarter campaign, Helico Aerospace Industries have finally reached their $300,000 goal for their AirDog ADII drone. However, the thing is – there are only 256 backers who pledged slightly over the required amount (if we are to be more precise, $3,588 more). This leads me to assume that AirDog ADII might not be as popular as most people think. Still, that doesn’t have to be true, it’s just an assumption…

Even if it goes that way, the truth is – this drone is not intended for beginners but instead for more experienced users… as well as those who enjoy extreme outdoor activities. Obviously, this crumbles a good portion of potential drone buyers… but considering AirDog ADII is going to be priced at $1,500 (and as far as I can tell, it’s worth every penny), it’s safe to say the profit will not be scarce.

Where can I buy AirDog ADII?

At the time of writing this article, AirDog ADII is still available for preorder on the official Kickstarter campaign. This means you’ll not only receive it faster but you will also pay much less for it. More precisely, by preordering it on Kickstarter you will pay $1,099; by purchasing it once the campaign is done and dealt with, you will have to dash out roughly $1,500. The latter will also push the delivery time by more than a few months. We’re talking somewhere near the end of 2017, probably during the Holidays season.

If you’re wondering about the distribution channels for this drone after the end of its Kickstarter campaign, there is nothing to worry about. Since it has raised a lot of money, I’m sure it will be available from plenty of places. Of course, Amazon is most likely to be the first major distribution channel just like it was the case with the original model when it was first released.

AirDog ADII Overview

Now that you know where and how to buy it, it’s time to take a closer look at this interesting new drone to see what’s it all about. Obviously, the shipping hasn’t started just yet (first copies will be shipped out in a few weeks or so, for early-bird backers on Kickstarter) which means I haven’t received it and thus cannot make a thorough review on it. Despite that, I’ll do my best with the presented information and specifications to hopefully deliver useful insight about this seemingly outstanding drone!

Design

The first thing that needs to be said about the design of this beast is its foldable structure. All 4 “arms” are foldable and you’ll have an easy access for removing the props as well. This is, of course, extremely handy since it easily fits into backpacks. Second thing, while the shape and design are pretty much identical to the original, color schematic is not. AirDog ADII features white and purple fashion while its predecessor sports purple and yellow. Honestly speaking, ADII looks much better just because of this. The original is, at least in my opinion, too colorful to be taken seriously. As a matter of fact, most of my colleagues thought it was a toy drone until I told them the real story.

Camera

This time around, AirDog ARII incorporates a brand new gimbal with full support for the all new GoPro Hero 5. As far as I could tell, the clip-on mechanism is pretty much identical to that on GoPro Karma. Obviously, GoPro Hero 5 is an excellent camera and is bound to produce exceptional aerial footage of your favorite outdoor activities. Even more so if you take into consideration extraordinary tracking systems that are in place here.

Tracking

It’s true! AirDog ADII takes tracking very seriously. I’ve already did my fair share of research and can confirm this birdie’s tracking is superior to DJI’s ActiveTrack… currently the best tracking system out there. Still, ActiveTrack relies on data from its camera to effectively track an object. While this is good for cinematography, it does not do well with fast-paced action which is a common occurrence with extreme outdoor sports. That’s where AirDog kicks in with its comprehensive sensor system that, together with GPS and AirLeash (more about this down below)

AirLeash

For those of you who are not familiar with the original AirDog (also referred to as AirDog 1st Gen), this little birdie does not come with a controller. Actually, I should rephrase that. AirDog ADII does not come with a classical controller. Instead, due to its autonomous flight regime, you are going to control it by a sporty device called AirLeash (AirDog and AirLeash… Get it?). It is 100% waterproof meaning you can dive into your water adventures without having to worry about AirLeash. Plus, it has kept the small screen that you’ll use for navigating through its various flight features.

Fully autonomous

I almost forgot to mention that AirDog ADII is a fully autonomous drone. Once you set it off in the air, all you have to do is select one of many smart flight/record modes and you will be good to go. They include the ever so popular Auto Return To Home, AirLeash tracking, customizable flight paths and several cinematic modes such as circle around, panorama, look away and much more…

Needless to say, these features are all selectable solely with the help of AirLeash. It has a highly intuitive control schematic and you’ll learn the basics in no time. Come to think of it, the motto Future is Hands-Free isn’t there for nothing!

Specifications

Even though I could not find any information about its battery and motors, I doubt they will be much different from the original. However, information about the operating range, speed and airtime have been released some time ago. In terms of airtime, you’re looking at roughly 15 minutes with the camera recording all the time.

Range, on the other hand, has been significantly reduced from the original, presumably to increase autonomous tracking systems which tend to cause errors when facing longer ranges. As a matter of fact, I think the 150m range might be software-limited… but I guess we’ll have to wait until it’s shipped to confirm whether that’s true or not… While mere 150m might seem short at first, you need to remember this is not an exploration drone. Its main use is to record its user’s outdoor activities and sports. It’s as simple as that!

Another thing I’d like to point out is wind resistance. Since we are talking about a highly powerful drone here, it’s not surprising that it has great wind resistance as well. The precise information aren’t familiar, but I’ve seen this thing flying on YouTube during strong winds and it didn’t even flinch… Lastly, AirDog ADII is quite the speedy devil with roughly 44mph or 70km/h. Obviously, such a speed will suffice for even the most extreme of sports which just confirms my statement above.

Final words…

So, with everything that has been said above, I believe it is time to say a few conclusive words. For starters, I would like to make one thing clear – AirDog ADII, just like its predecessor, isn’t for everyone. This is not a typical drone by any means. It’s a sophisticated aerial platform focused solely on outdoor sports. Mountain biking, windsurfing, or just plain old cycling… if you’re into anything like this, then one thing is for sure – AirDog ADII is meant for you!

The post AirDog ADII has reached their goal in a Kickstarter campaign! What do you need to know about this action drone? appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

Yuneec YES! Brand New Warranty Program

Yuneec, a drone brand which hasn’t stopped amazing us ever since the release of their Q500 model. After that, the company made a huge breakthrough on the scene and, quite frankly, are now in an open fight with DJI in terms of premium drones.

This is partially because of their solid warranty plan which is attracting a lot of attention in recent months. In addition to their normal warranty options revolving around the below-stated drones, Yuneec also offers a special warranty plan called YES! AKA Yuneec Extended Service.

Here’s a quick look at Yuneec’s official basic warranty scheme that’s included in the main price of their models:

1-year warranty

• Typhoon Q500
• Typhoon H
• Breeze

6-month warranty

• Typhoon Q500+
• Typhoon Q500G
• Tornado H920

Additionally, Yuneec also has a 1-month warranty on their accessories as well as LiPo batteries which could save you a ton of nerves if something goes wrong as soon as your new Yuneec drone arrives.

 

What is YES! – Yuneec Extended Service?

Just like it was already explained above, Yuneec YES! (Yuneec Extended Service) is a paid service fee that works in a similar way like many other top brands all around the world. In other words, it basically reflects popular plans such as AppleCare and DJI’s name here, both of which are enjoying quite the popularity.

If we are to be more precise, YES! runs concurrently to the default warranty, giving you another year of manufacturer defect services. While this does include software-caused crashes and flyaways, it doesn’t cover man-made errors. Realistically, what I’m trying to say here is – if you crash your Yuneec drone up against a wall at full speed or make a dive into the river… not even YES! will stop you.

Here is the price overview of YES! for different models. At the moment, only 3 models are covered by it, so here they are:

• Yuneec Breeze – $59
• Typhoon H – $199
• Typhoon H +Intel RealSense $279

But, there’s another plan that could, in fact, be worth going for even more than YES! You see, in addition to Yuneec Extensive Service, there is also a thing called Crash Forgiveness. Let me tell you a bit more about this one…

 

What is Crash Forgiveness?

Crash Forgiveness is a bit more expensive warranty gimmick from Yuneec. This time, you won’t get an extra year on your warranty but instead 2 non-warranty crash repairs. However, if your drone is completely ruined and requires a replacement, your Crash Forgiveness contract will be considered as fulfilled, meaning it’s as good as gone. Well, technically, it’s not… since you’ll get a special 50% off for further non-warranty repairs.

Here is how the price chart looks as far as Crash Forgiveness is concerned:

• Yuneec Breeze – $89
• Typhoon H – $229
• Typhoon H +Intel RealSense $299

 

Anything else noteworthy?

So, to summarize on these 2 plans:

YES! – extends your warranty for an another year.

CF – gives you 2 non-warranty repairs free of charge.

But, there is one more aspect that is included in both of these warranty plans that is bound to get overlooked by a fair share of potential customers.

Special discounts!!!

You see, if you opt for YES! and you happen to be the perfect pilot and you don’t need a single repair or extra part, then you’ll be eligible for 30% off your next Yuneec purchase. Similar story goes for CF too. If you opt for this plan and you don’t use a single one of those 2 non-warranty repairs, you’ll get extra 20% off your next Yuneec purchase. If the basic plans weren’t good enough on their own for you, then perhaps these discounts will sway your mind and make you pay that extra bit of money for them.

Final words on YES! and CF

As you can see, the price gaps aren’t too drastic but are still noteworthy. What surprises me is the fact Yuneec Typhoon Q500 and Tornado H920 aren’t on the list for either of these warranty plans. As a matter of fact, it is also a trivial matter to see Typhoon H being listed at 2 different prices due to the presence of RealSense technology. I won’t go into the reasons why is that so since, quite frankly, I will be the first one to go for Crash Forgiveness plan, no questions asked.

Finally, a question for those of you who own a Yuneec drone – after reading this article, do you think you will opt for one of these 2 plans? Either YES! or Crash Forgiveness. As always, you can leave your comments down in the comment section. I’ll be happy to read them as I am very interested in your opinions on this subject.

 

The post Yuneec YES! Brand New Warranty Program appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

Review of Holy Stone HS300 – $200 drone with solid specs

Most people tend to start off with a drone costing between $100 and $200. Even though I am strongly against it and recommend starting out with a much cheaper model, the statistics are pointing in that way… But then I thought to myself – if you have already decided you want such an expensive drone, then I might as well show you one of the best ones.

And that’s basically the birth of Holy Stone HS300 review! So, in the following paragraphs, I plan on telling you everything there is to know about this beauty. I’ve spent around a week testing it. More precisely, I’ve had around 3-4 hours of flight time which was more than enough to come to a proper conclusion about this little fella. But, before jumping straight to HS300, first let’s talk about the company behind it – Holy Stone.

==> Check out Reviews and Price on Amazon

Holy Stone General Info

Holy Stone is actually a relatively small company which was founded back in 2014. In addition to drones, Holy Stone also deals with RC cars (or should I say, RC car, since they only have 1 model available) which completes their array of RC toys. Since they’re mostly working with drones, it is not a surprising sight to see so many models available.

Truth be told, not all are as popular as HS170 (AKA Predator) and HS300, the one we’re going to focus on today. These 2 drones alone have been a big reason for Holy Stone’s recent trail of success, allowing them to build further up the food chain. But, what’s so special about the former model? Why am I praising it so much without showing you some cold hard facts? Well, that’s exactly what I’m about to start doing!

 

Holy Stone HS300 Review

Just like I said above, if you’re a beginner and want to spend a lot of money (yes, $200 is a lot of money for a beginner to spend) on a drone, you should not agree to any compromises and get the best one available. Without a doubt, a good contender for that title is HS300 by Holy Stone. This bulky drone comes with solid specifications, great camera and excellent build quality, making it an awesome choice for first time flyers. Even more so for people interested in aerial photography due to its dedicated camera that records in 1080p. Needless to say, Holy Stone HS300 is a breeze to fly. With an intuitive controller and excellent preconfigured trims, you will learn the basics of flying in no time.

After this introductory paragraph, I’m going to show you other, more precise information about this little fella. One thing to note before I start off with its specifications, though – Keep in mind that numbers such as range and airtime might vary from model to model due to unpredictable variables. With that said, they probably won’t vary too much, but the information is out in the open.

So, with that noted, let’s jump straight to action and see what does Holy Stone HS300 have underneath that flashy body!

 

Battery

Holy Stone HS300 is a bulky model with lots of weight going on. To be more precise, this birdie weighs in at around 1.4 pounds (roughly 635 grams) which is quite a lot for a drone in this price range. That is why it is not surprising to see a powerful 2S LiPo battery in charge of providing juice. We are talking about 7.4V 2S 2000mAh LiPo battery which is also bulky, but fits perfectly in the provided slot on HS300.

In terms of airtime, the official specifications claim up to 15 minutes of hassle-free flight. However, realistically you are looking at 12-13 minutes, depending on various other factors. On the other hand, if you are planning on using the DVR function, your flight time will sink even lower to roughly 10 minutes. But, I’d still want you to know that 10 minutes isn’t half bad, especially considering the sheer quality of your aerial footage.

 

Range

When it comes to operating range, this is where Holy Stone HS300 doesn’t shine in its best light. You see, this birdie only supports up to 150 meters of responsive and lag-free range. By looking at its closest competitors, it is pretty clear that HS300 underperforms. Not by a lot, though… but it still does underperform.

For most of you, 150 meters of flight range should be just enough. That’s goes for amateur aerial photographers as well, who set up their shots in close vicinity. However, even though 150m range is decent for amateur AP, I’d still like to see an upgrade that will allow at least double that. If this happens, Holy Stone HS300 will not only be a potent aerial photography drone but quite the explorer as well.

 

Camera quality

Camera is where this birdie shines the most. Even though we are talking about a mediocre 5MP sensor, due to other interesting aspects (more about that below) it is capable of providing you with exceptional aerial footage time and time again.

The biggest thing about HS300’s camera is actually its basic anti-vibration mount. It might look primitive and, quite frankly, silly at first… in reality it really helps a lot with image stability. It features 4 dampening balls and precise locking mechanism that locks into place and fixes the camera in a position where it won’t be affected by vibration and shakiness. This allows for extraordinary aerial videos and images that are bound to amaze your friends and family. Lastly, you’ll also get a 4GB MicroSD card inside that will be used as the default storage device for your recordings.

==> Buy Holy Stone HS300 on Amazon <==

Features

Features-wise, the first thing that needs to be addressed is GPS. Or, in other words – the lack of it. But, even though Holy Stone HS300 lacks GPS module, it still has access to “cheap” smart features. Of course, I am talking about one key return and altitude hold, both of which are a common occurrence in medium and high tier segments of drones’ market. Considering HS300’s smart features are not powered by GPS, they are not nearly as reliable and precise as their GPS-powered counterparts. Still, they are able to provide decent results meaning you shouldn’t experience any real issues with them. Lastly, HS300 also has access to headless mode too.

 

Extra accessories

Extra accessories are always an important factor when deciding which drone to go for. Luckily, when it comes to Holy Stone HS300, I am sure you will be more than satisfied. Why? Well, because you are getting a whole bunch of additional things that are bound to come in handy in times of need.

Extra accessories that com within the original package include 4 extra propellers, landing gear, prop guards and even an extra battery that will double your flight time.

But, what to do when I run out of propellers, break my propeller guards or burn out one of my motors? That’s when spare parts kick in…

 

Spare parts

As far as spare parts are concerned, Holy Stone offers good coverage for their HS300 model. That means, in addition to propellers, you can also order motors, propeller guards, landing gear and extra batteries. However, if there’s a problem with the stock (your desired spare parts are out of stock at the time of order), feel free to contact Holy Stone customer support which will resolve your problem in a quick fashion.

Holy Stone HS300 vs Parrot Bebop

The standard model of original Bebop by Parrot costs roughly the same as Holy Stone HS300. Come to think of it, it’s actually a bit cheaper. But, is it as good as Holy Stone’s giant? Well, if you are looking for a drone suitable for amateur photography, I’ll have to point you to Holy Stone. It has a superior camera that’s mounted on a basic anti-vibration mount which does wonders in terms of general image quality.

Furthermore, their respective airtimes are pretty similar but I’d say HS300 has the edge in this department as well… Especially if you aren’t using DVR function a lot. Last but not least, HS300 also gets an extra point due to its superior in-flight stability, which is not that surprising considering it is much bulkier than the Parrot.

 

Holy Stone HS300 vs MJX Bugs 3

When we compare the weights of these 2 drones (HS300 with its default cam and MJX Bugs 3 with a typical action cam such as GoPro Hero 4), we’ll come to the conclusion they’re roughly the same. Size-wise, however, is slightly pulled towards the HS300 which is just a bit bigger.

But, in terms of specifications, MJX Bugs 3 leads the charge with almost double range (300m in comparison to only 150m of HS300) and slightly better airtime. However, I must add that MJX Bugs 3 is a camera-less drone which means, if you don’t already own one, you will have to supply your own action camera if you want any kind of aerial photography action. Keep in mind that it cannot carry a lot of additional weight so you’ll have to do a bit of research before your purchase.

 

Final words on Holy Stone HS300 review

As far as drones under $200 are concerned, Holy Stone HS300 might as well be the best one out of the bunch. Even more so if you’re pursuing a career in aerial photography. This little bugger is bound to deliver nothing but excellent image quality that can, with a little practice on your end, turn into quite the masterpiece.

So, if we take all that into consideration, the final words are rather simple – Holy Stone HS300 is a drone worth looking into. It’s affordable, durable and best of all – it’s a ton of fun!

The post Review of Holy Stone HS300 – $200 drone with solid specs appeared first on DronesGlobe.com.

15 drones with the longest control range [sorted by price]

Personal radio-controlled drones are becoming exceedingly common in today’s market. For hobbyists and newcomers alike, drones offer a unique new way to approach RC flight and allow users to capture sights that weren’t possible on their own. So, it’s no wonder every other drone comes with a payload capacity or ability to attach a GoPro camera to its frame (10 drones with GoPro camera). Video and photographs from previously impossible angles are created, meaning there’s more incentive for enthusiasts beyond piloting a small machine.

Long range Uavs – Table of Contents :

13. Hubsan H501S
12. DJI Phantom 2
11. Traxxas Aton
10. MJX Bugs 3
9. DJI Phantom 3 Standard
8. Xiro Xplorer V
7. Yuneec Typhoon Q500
6. Yuneec Typhoon H
5. DJI Inspire 1
4. DJI Phantom 4
3. DJI Phantom 4 Pro
2. DJI Inspire 2
1. DJI Mavic Pro

Beyond how long they can remain in the sky (10 drones with longest flight time), however, drones do have some limitations. Finding out which drone in which price tier has the least amount of limitations is the key to enjoying the hobby to its fullest. In this case, it’s about range. Since drones are remote controlled they need a signal to respond to from the pilot’s point. Common question is : How far can a drone fly? Good drones can still hold steady hundreds, if not thousands of feet, away. Lesser models will likely falter after about a few hundred feet or less.

TABLE OF BEST LONG RANGE DRONES :

Name	Image	Camera	Range	Time	Best Price
9. Traxxas Aton		GoPro	200 m	20 min	See price now
8. MJX Bugs 3		GoPro	300 m	15 min	See price now
7. DJI Phantom 3 Standard		12 MP	1 km	22 min	See price now
6. Xiro Xplorer V		14MP	1 km	22 min	See Price now
5. Yuneec Q500+		16MP	2 km	22 min	See price now
4. Yuneec Typhoon H		4K	1.8 km	22 min	See price now
3. DJI Phantom 4 pro		4K	7 km	27 min	See price now
2. DJI Inspire 2		4K	7 km	27 min	See price now
1. DJI Mavic Pro		4K	7 km	27 min	See price now

Flying drones in commercial purpose require a FAA Drone Pilot License. We have covered that topic in our : FAA Part 107 Test Guide article.

So in this article, we’re going to target drones which can get to impressive distances within their price ranges. We’ll mention other important specs too, but the main focus will ultimately cover how lengthy their sky trip scan be. Don’t forget to read our list of top drones for real estate agents

2 Toy Grade Drones

15. Holy Stone HS170 Predator Mini

Of the long distance drones for sale, Holy Stone’s mobile little drone starts off our list as a great starter machine. It’s called the mini, because surprise, it’s a lot smaller than a standard drones usual specifications. Still, that doesn’t mean it’s awful. It’s quite the contrary when we come to think of it…

That being said, the Predator Mini boasts wind resistant flight reaching distances of roughly 30-50 meters (almost 150 feet). That’s a darn good distance for such a small unit, meaning it works for both entertainment and to just practice flying RC drones. It’s currently priced at $40 USD, a cheap investment for those curious about the hobby.

With all that in mind, it’s also a must to mention that Holy Stone Predator Mini is a great beginner drone that won’t break easily. Even in case you somehow manage to break it, don’t cry too much because it wasn’t very expensive and next time but two instead of only one.

 

14. MJX X10C FPV

A stylized, mainly white drone quadcopter, the X10C comes next in the tier by rumbling through the skies with a flight distance maximum of about 100 meters, or 300 feet. With a fair price and decent range, it becomes a no-brainer for everyone trying to get into drone hobby.

It’s also been marked down from its original price tag (yes, that means it’s even cheaper now), meaning it’s a good choice as a long range drone for sale. According to the vendor, it isn’t too difficult to fly either and has a camera for capturing 720p resolution video. As a nice little bonus, it’s also compatible with MJX’s virtual headset, granted how useful that is we couldn’t say (it’s also not included).

If you have plans to scour the air for a fair hundred feet, this is a great start. This virtual reality headset probably is comparable with ones used in drone racing leagues, but hey – you get what you pay for. Good pick to get you into world of drones and FPV flying. Good control range is always a bonus when we’re talking about drones. There are many reasons why this is one of most popular drones for kids.

13. Hubsan H501S

This is where real game begins. For such a low price you get a drone that has : Altitude hold, Follow me mode, Headless mode, GPS (back to home), 6-axis flight control. As some of you probably realize, this sort of features can be found on more expensive drone that go well above $200…

Come to think of it, if someone told me a year ago that I’ll be able to get all these functions for $200 I’d told him he must be joking. Oh, I almost forgot. If that’s not enough, it comes with 1080p FPV camera as well! It’s featured on our list of 10 Best Camera Drones. There’s no doubt that will suit all your drone racing cravings that you have going on.

Since this article is all about range, I should tell you that Hubsan H501S has a flight range of 300 meters. To be honest, there’s no chance you can see this drone on that distance, but I’m pretty sure there will be people who’ll put it on its limits. If you’re one of these, please record it and upload to Youtube!

Show me the best price for : Ashburn, United States

 

12. DJI Phantom 2

As we jump into the next price tier of RC drones, we’re greeted by the DJI Phantom 2, a quick and mobile variant of the Phantom series. While reports remark that it can be fragile, meaning it’s more aimed at veteran pilots, it boasts some great airtime stability.

Additionally, the Phantom 2 reaches distances between 300-500 meters, but there are some owners who claim they have reached 1km+ without any antenna customization. So I believe it can easily go over 500 meters on open field. Since it supports GoPro and other action camera, it can easily be used for exploring unexplored areas or just casual photographing of cool scenes. Flight time is somewhere around 15-17 minutes which is more than enough in most of cases, for most of flyers. There is always an option to buy extra batteries if you need longer flights.

With all of the above taken into consideration, it is quite clear (even to the biggest beginners reading this) that DJI Phantom 2 still hasn’t lost its competitive spirit. So, it’s only appropriate to recommend it as a great value for money option… One of the best ones out there, for that matter!

Show me the best price for : Ashburn, United States

 

11. Traxxas Aton Plus

Traxxas is well known for their RC products, especially cars. Last year they decided to enter drones market, and they did it. Successfully. Traxxas Aton Plus is more like professional grade drone for a price of toy grade drones.

The one we’re talking about comes with 2-axis camera gimbal included and 5000mAh 3-Cell Traxxas iD LiPo Battery. There is one cool function named “Air Brake”, it allows you to stop and hover at the push of a button. That function works great, much better than I expected to be honest.Stays within its own geofence of 400 feet high and a 500 foot (150 meters) diameter. When it reaches those limits, it automatically returns to home (determined by GPS positioning) and shuts itself off.

I’ll quote one review from Amazon : “One of the best things for new pilots is the multiple safety features Traxxas has built-in to the flight control system greatly reducing the risk of “flyaways” you so often read about. And watching this thing quickly return to home all by itself – from hundreds of feet away – is truly an amazing thing to witness. The LED lights make it stand out like a beacon at night and even when cruising around at high altitude in the dark, it’s super easy to distinguish front from back.”

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10. MJX Bugs 3

This little fella is among the cheaper drones on this list. It is mostly so due to the fact it does not come with a camera. Despite that, it still features a gimbal that supports GoPro HERO models as well as off brand action camera. The actual process of mounting one is quite simple and you should not have any difficulties with doing so.

Luckily, the rest of the drone is more than enough to compensate for the obvious lack of camera. For instance, it features brushless motors (MT1806 1800KV) which are known for their durability. It’s a surprising fact considering there are not that many drones in this price range that can boast with brushless motors. In addition to that, MJX Bugs 3 also comes with a powerful 1800mAh battery. What’s awesome about it is that it effectively lasts up to 15 minutes in the air, making it quite the lengthy flier. The operating range is pretty solid as well. Its controller can be as far as 300 meters without any lag or losing connection.

Combine all of that with a generally awesome design and solid build quality, and you’ll realize that this is probably one of the best long range drones out there when it comes to price / performance ratio.

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9. DJI Phantom 3 Standard

DJI and its respective fleet often find their units on our list for having a pretty lengthy variety of models to choose from. That, and the hardware in question has a lot to offer.

Previously, the Phantom 3 was also on our list of drones with the longest battery life, because it sported a whopping 20 minutes. Let’s add to that, as the Phantom 3 has been recorded to hit distances of about 500 meters, or 1500 feet. That manes enthusiasts can get some really amazing sky shots while the Phantom 3 does its thing. The basic unit, which lacks an extra batter and such, sits close to $500 USD, making it a decent long range quadcopter for sale in this tier.

To summarize – The “entry” model in DJI Phantom 3 lineup is still a viable choice for everyone wanting a decently priced long range drone that can satisfy all of their aerial photography needs. With a sleek design, outstanding build quality and plenty of spare parts available, DJI Phantom 3 Standard seems like a proper deal any day of the week.

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8. Xiro Xplorer V

If the name didn’t already imply it, the designers really want you to understand the “X” is a major feature here. Even the drone has an x like shape. Is that some sort of an X conspiracy? I don’t know…

More to the point, as a long range drone with camera, and it’s heavy $560 USD price tag, one expects some performance. Well, it does deliver at least in principle, with a bulky sky life of 20 minutes. So, if you’re asking yourself how far can a drone fly. Emphasizing flight range, our x-loving drone gets around on 1800 feet ranges, or 600 meters. From there, you can capture all its sported 1080p video you want.

Additionally, Xiro Xplorer V is a FPV drone by all means. Video transmission works very well, better than I expected to be honest. There’s updated version of this drone available now (Xiro Xplorer 2) which looks very futuristic. That also means this version is now on sale, so get your piece right now!

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7. Yuneec Q500+ Typhoon

The Typhoon is on this list again for all around impressiveness. In our other articles, we were already liking its considerable half-hour sky life. The facts don’t change though, and the Typhoon has an RC range of about 8000 feet, according to reports.

At $700 USD that might be one of the better deals you can get. In this tier, it also makes it one of the best long range camera drones you can find. Granted, the area you’re in might affect this lengthy range, but overall it can get places for the photo/drone enthusiast.

In the end, I believe you just can’t go wrong with Q500 if you’re looking for long distance drone that’s capable to record high quality video and capture amazing photos. With excellent design, solid specifications and an outright fair price, only sky is the limit for Yuneec Q500+ Typhoon.

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6. Yuneec Typhoon H

As we approach the priciest drones we scavenged up, it’s good to note we expect only professionals or hobbyist veterans around these parts. Only because drones like the Typhoon H are pretty expensive and we highly suggest being very careful when handling it. This also means what we list will have some expected veterancy, so use with care.

Yuneec claims their Typhoon H can fly a full mile (1.8km) before losing signal and coming back to you automatically using GPS. Meaning, much like flying a small craft, you may actually need to be aware of other flying things in your area. Now that we’re done lecturing, the Typhoon H also has a digital flight path you can create to mingle as one of the drones with the best range.

We should also mention it’s obstacle avoidance system that works very well. Then there is auto follow me mode packed up with some of the best cameras available on the market. You can’t go wrong with his drone, especially considering value for money you will be getting with Yuneec Typhoon H!

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5. DJI Inspire 1

Surprise! DJI has multiple listings on our choices for long control range drones again. But, credit given where it’s due, their models are tried, tested, and well received. With all that being said, it is not really that surprising to see the original Inspire on this list. The pricing is still a big issue for casual users though, so we’ll have to see how will it rank up with cheaper options…

At about $2550, the Inspire 1 will then crown our list for being the most relatively expensive model equivalent to the distances it can reach. We should add, aside from its manufacturing, the extra pricing comes from included camera and hardware.

So how far can you capture its boasted 4K video? No more than 1500 feet, actually, so don’t think you’ll be recording clouds. Radio transmission range is better though, hitting distances close to 2km (or 1.2 miles). While you might not get full range for video, you can go a long way, and it’s worth noting the drone has a pretty good payload haul.

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4. DJI Phantom 4

Newest model in one of the most recognizable series of drones ever, DJI Phantom 4. Compared to DJI Phantom 3, it comes with everything slightly upgraded. Now we have better (4k) camera, obstacle avoidance system (Phantom 3 didn’t have this), improved battery, motors, controller etc. Pretty much everything is slightly improved.

Since this article is all about control range, I’m more than happy to inform you that DJI Phantom 4 has an operating range of 6 kilometers on open field. With new battery that will provide you with 25 minutes of flight time, this sounds pretty awesome! Combined with FPV Goggles, P4 will provide you with great flying experience!

I should also mention that price of Phantom 4 has significantly dropped since DJI revealed new model : Phantom 4 PRO. If you’re interested in buying this drone, now you can get it at pretty good price! It’s definitely worth every penny, that’s for sure!

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3. Phantom 4 Pro

DJI has continued with their recent success, releasing 3 high end models that have definitely created quite the stir on the market. Phantom 4 Pro is one of the 3 (second two can be seen down below) and looks to be a great upgrade nevertheless.

With an abundance of sensors, including the all new obstacle avoidance (this is the first DJI’s drone with such technology implemented) system. It allows the drone to fly seamlessly wherever you want it to, without any issues with collisions or crashing since its advanced sensor mechanisms will detect and avoid anything dangerous that might come in its way. The design has stayed roughly the same, with exceptional build quality just like we are already used to seeing from DJI’s drones.

Specifications have been slightly booster as well, giving an overall much better performance. 7 kilometers of operating range (same technology was implemented in all 3 of their new models) and roughly 27 minutes of flight time make this a proper premium model. There isn’t that much more to be said about DJI Phantom 4 Pro that you already don’t know about. Perhaps the only thing worth mentioning is its maximum speed of approximately 44mph (roughly 72 km/h) which is incredibly fast for a casual/aerial photography drone. With that being said, let’s move straight to the second one of DJI’s awesome new drones that looks to set its throne as the new best drone for aerial photography!

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2. DJI Inspire 2

Click here to see more images on Amazon

Inspire 2 is a well anticipated drone that definitely looks to exceed everyone’s expectations. With even better specifications and more hi-tech features than its predecessor, Inspire 2 looks to be set for the stars. You see, everything design-wise has remained the same. There’s still the breathtaking rotor-raising feature that clears the view for the 4K camera that’s better than ever. Of course, it is mounted on the Zenmuse X5S gimbal stabilization which is, I’ll dare to say, currently the best one on the market.

In addition to that, it is important to mention that it also features obstacle avoidance in addition to dual GPS+GLONASS navigation systems. Moreover, the specifications are absolutely breathtaking – half an hour of battery life and 7 kilometers of operating range make this drone a great choice for people who don’t mind spending a ton of money for it. With that in mind, Inspire 2 is still going to be mainly purchased by professional photographers since it is, at least at the moment, the best mainstream aerial photography platform on the market. The stabilization this beast features is just unearthly and is able to deliver silk smooth footage no matter the fight conditions.

All things considered, Inspire 2 seems like it’s going to make a heck of a name for itself out there! Still, keep in mind that this is not a beginner’s drone which its price tag strongly suggests as well…

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1. DJI Mavic Pro

Click here to see more images on Amazon

There is a huge swarm of selfie drones at the moment. I do not know if you guys have realized this before, but it’s damn true. The selfie drone market is rapidly growing in popularity and it is no wonder that DJI, the world’s most popular drone manufacturer, decided to step in and take their share of the cake… and, oh boy, did they do it in style!

With Mavic Pro they are aggressively attacking the high end selfie drone market. You see, this miniature foldable drone has much higher specifications than all other competitors in the selfie category. With 7 kilometers of operating range and roughly 25 minutes of flight time, there’s no point in any comparisons to its main competitors such as Zerotech’s Dobby or XIRO’s Xplorer Mini (both of them have cca 100m flight range and 10+ mins of flight time).

Moreover, it comes with an excellent 4K camera that has its own stabilization system… and quite frankly, it does wonders! The design is as sleek as It can be, but then again, that’s no surprise since it’s a DJI product. Last but not least, I’d like to mention that it is packed with smart features that we’ve had the chance to see with Phantom 4 Pro and Inspire 2 as well, ActiveTrack and TapFly. In addition to them, you will find plenty more of them, most of which will definitely prove to be of massive help. Whether its for stability, whether its for taking pictures or even sheer control over the drone – DJI’s wide array of features will have you covered.

In the end, I believe there is nothing left to be said about Mavic Pro. It definitely is a mile ahead of all competition, but those premium specifications sure do have a premium price tag to its name. If something can disrupt Mavic Pro’s goals, then it’s definitely the huge price gap in the niche… But that’s something we’ll have to wait and see…

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Typical usage scenarios for long range drones

Drones with extremely long ranges are viable for a wide array of usages. These range from filmmaking, recreational exploration and a plethora of commercial uses as well. The latter provides the most value for people willing to invest in high end drones capable of reaching more than 5 kilometers away from their controller.

They are fast, agile, and can fly high above the ground making it almost impossible for people to spot them. Additionally, there are also specialized drones that are primarily targeted at certain industries (f.e. agricultural drones, delivery drones, surveillance drones), making them even better for that particular branch of industry. So, with all that in mind, let’s take a peek at the most typical usages for such drones! Let’s see what are they most useful for!

Delivery

With both UPS and Amazon racing to fully develop their drone delivery systems, the future in which drones will act as primary means of delivering goods seems certain! Come to think of it, this is not surprising at all. Drones are already fully autonomous and will a little software trickery they can be made into fully fledged delivery fleet. Even though drone delivery is not yet a real thing anywhere in the world, after a couple of successful tests (f.e. Amazon test in the UK and UPS test in Florida) it seems as though it is only a matter of time before they start delivering our toys to us… quicker than ever.

Surveillance

Surveillance is a big part of our society and it is safe to say that modern day drones pushed it one step further. Long range drones are often used for surveillance and it’s becoming more and more clear that they excel at it. Whether they are guarding a particular area of interest from intruders, private properties, or The White House; monitoring protests, groups and certain activities, the key of drone surveillance is in their stealthy approach. Since today’s flagship long range drones are fast and can fly high above people, they are pretty difficult to notice, allowing people to think they are not being monitored. Equipped with night vision and infrared cameras, they are the ideal surveillance tools that can effectively monitor huge areas, making sure there is no breach of security while they’re in charge.

Agriculture

I am sure most of you know about the highly specialized drones that are used for agricultural purposes from fertilizing to regularly inspecting crops. With a wide array of visual feedback such as infrared data, farmers can learn more about their crops and investigate potential weak sports and distressed plants. Undoubtedly, this is extremely useful for everyone making a living with agriculture and is a magnificent modern-day tool that more and more farmers are investing in. Other than that, farmers can also use schedule automatic crop inspections and fertilizing/watering which will result in maximized yields and better, healthier crops.

Mapping

With the introduction of long range drones, mapping has experiences a proper rebirth. Nowadays, there are whole fleets of drones being used for mapping particular areas. Modern day drones are able to effectively map entire forests, rivers, hills and mountain chains, making them extremely useful for that matter. Mapping is most often used for understanding certain hard-to-reach areas which tend to rapidly change, such as fast-moving rivers, forests and so on. In addition to that, mapping is also used in highly urban areas where other means of mapping (f.e. via helicopters) is not that viable due to the huge size of the vehicle.

 

FAA – How far am I allowed to fly a drone?

FAA has a whole set of new drone regulations that are already being enforced. For casual users, the law states that the maximum height you can fly at is 400 feet. Fly above that and you might get arrested and pay up to $250,000 fine and perhaps even spend up to 3 years in prison (this sounds rather harsh to be honest). Another reason that could potentially get you in jail (or a hefty fine) is flying a drone beyond your visible line of sight (BVLOS). With that being said, you must keep the drones in your sight at all times. Even if you are heavily relying on your drone’s FPV capabilities, it still must be in your LOS otherwise you’d be breaking the federal laws.

Commercial users are now bounded by a different set of regulations. First off, they will have to pass the 107-knowledge test which incorporates 60 questions and requires at least 42 correct answers. After passing the test and getting their diploma, commercial users are finally allowed to fly their drones for, you’ve guessed it – commercial purposes. But, that still does not mean they can legally fly above 400 feet or beyond their visible line of sight. For that, commercial users will need to get special permits directly from the FAA.

Luckily, the FAA has already granted a couple hundred exemptions to commercial uses who need to fly their drones BVLOS. Most of these commercial users work for agricultural companies allowing them to inspect their fields without breaking the law. There are also surveillance companies that only fly BVLOS during night to improve their security.

 

Other things to consider when buying a long-range drone?

In addition to long range, there are several other key aspects of a drone that you need to look into before making your purchase:

Camera

If you are buying a surveillance or mapping drone, you need to make sure it is equipped with a state of the art camera. If not, you will be left out with a mediocre (at best) image quality which will, in the end, not be that impressing. So, if you are already willing to spend more than a thousand bucks for a drone, make sure it comes with a proper camera (at least a 4K one with 3-axis gimbal stabilization system). Depending on what you’re buying the drone for, you might even upgrade it to a night vision/infrared camera with optical zoom (and mind you, this heavily depends on why exactly are you purchasing the drone for) which will further improve the data you’ll receive.

Battery

Battery is a very important aspect which could make or break certain drone deals. That’s why you should always aim for drones with easily replaceable batteries with quick charge technology (so you can charge one while the drone is flying on the second one) that can endure at least 20 minutes of active flight. With that being said, keep in mind that 20-25 minutes is considered a bare minimum and you should never compromise with anything below that.

 

Blade Chroma - Hidden after 2017 update

Blade Chroma

Blade Chroma

This great looking drone deserved it’s place on this list. It’s not only one of the drones with best flight range in this price range but it’s also one of the best drones for aerial photography and videography in this price range because of it’s stability, reliability and SAFE technology Blade putted into it. Using solely a remote control for operation, the Chroma can be flown up to 400 meters (1,312 feet) away from you. Compared to the average controllable range of 100 meters, you can control the Chroma from 300 meters (984 feet) further away. That’s not where the party ends. There are several versions of Chroma, some of them supports GoPro Hero 3 and 4 action cameras, while one version(on the picture) comes with it’s own camera. Both are great quality but buying one that works with GoPro can save you some money in case you already have GoPro camera.

Ehang Ghost - Hidden after 2017 update

Ehang GHOST 2.0

Ehang GHOSTDRONE 2.0

GHOSTDRONE is one of the many drone variants which fancies control and integration with iPhones and respective apps. When it comes to that there’s always mixed reactions mingled with uncertain functionality, but this model does an okay job working with wi-fi networks. The bigger story here is its distance life, coming to half-a-mile, according to the maker, meaning it’s one of the better drones with long range. It also boasts it’s the easiest drone model to fly. With its various modes, range, and weather stability functions, this might be true. Sitting on the edge of an $800 USD pricetag, it’s up to the user to figure out if they want it that much. This is definitely one of the best long range drones.

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