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As drones continue to gain popularity, more and more people are becoming interested in owning one. However, the price tag can be a significant barrier for some. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable options available, commonly referred to as cheap drones. In this article, we’ll explore the cheapest drones in the market and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing your first drone.
What is a Cheap Drone?
When it comes to drones, the price can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. A cheap drone typically refers to one that costs less than $200. These drones are often marketed towards beginners or hobbyists who are looking for an affordable option to get started with aerial photography or videography. While cheap drones may not have all the features and capabilities of their more expensive counterparts, they can still provide a fun and rewarding experience.
The Benefits of Owning a Cheap Drone
Aside from the obvious benefit of being more affordable, there are several other benefits to owning a cheap drone. Firstly, they are often smaller and more lightweight, making them easier to transport and fly. Additionally, many cheap drones come with built-in features such as auto-hover, headless mode, and one-button takeoff and landing, which can make them easier to fly for beginners. Cheap drones can also be a great way to test the waters and see if flying drones is a hobby you want to pursue further.
Top Cheap Drones in the Market
There are many options when it comes to cheap drones, but here are five of the top models in the market:
- Holy Stone HS100D – This drone has a 1080p camera and a 15-minute flight time, making it a great option for beginners.
- Syma X5UW-D – This drone has a 720p camera and a 7-minute flight time, but comes with additional features such as altitude hold and a smartphone app for controlling the drone.
- Hubsan H107D – This tiny drone is perfect for indoor flying and has a 480p camera.
- JJRC H68 – With a 720p camera and a 20-minute flight time, this drone is a great option for those looking for a longer flight time.
- Potensic T18 – This drone comes with a 1080p camera, a 10-minute flight time, and additional features such as altitude hold and one-button takeoff and landing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Drone
While price is certainly an important factor to consider when choosing a cheap drone, there are several other factors you should take into account as well. These include:
- Flight time – How long the drone can stay in the air before needing to be recharged.
- Camera quality – If you plan on using your drone for aerial photography or videography, you’ll want to make sure the camera quality is adequate.
- Size and weight – Smaller and lighter drones are easier to transport and fly.
- Features – Some cheap drones come with additional features such as altitude hold, headless mode, and one-button takeoff and landing, which can make them easier to fly.
- Durability – Make sure to choose a drone that is durable enough to withstand crashes and accidents.
Tips for Flying a Cheap Drone
Flying a drone can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to do so safely and responsibly. Here are some tips for flying your cheap drone:
- Start small – If you’re new to flying drones, start with a small and simple model to get a feel for how it works.
- Choose a safe location – Make sure to choose an open and safe location to fly your drone, away from people, buildings, and other obstacles.
- Follow FAA guidelines – Make sure to follow FAA guidelines and regulations for flying drones, such as staying under 400 feet and not flying near airports or other restricted airspace.
- Keep your drone in sight – Always keep your drone in sight and avoid flying it too far away where you might lose control or visibility.
- Practice – Practice makes perfect, so spend some time practicing and getting comfortable with flying your drone before attempting any complex maneuvers or aerial photography.
Conclusion
In conclusion, owning a cheap drone can be a great way to get started with aerial photography or videography without breaking the bank. While there are certainly limitations to cheap drones in terms of features and capabilities, they can still provide a fun and rewarding experience for beginners and enthusiasts alike. When choosing a cheap drone, make sure to consider factors such as flight time, camera quality, size and weight, features, and durability, and always fly your drone safely and responsibly. With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to enjoying the thrill of flying a drone in no time.