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A camera drone is a fun way to explore a new style of photography and video production: aerial imaging. Taking photos and making movies from high up in the air, or flying a small drone through tight spaces, nets a very different look than using a smartphone or handheld camera for recording.
PCMag reviews drones made for users of various skill levels. If you’re after an advanced model, check our roundup of the best camera drones overall, which includes quadcopters suitable for cinematography. Here we’ll concentrate on drones made for photography and video that are good for beginners. Read on for our top picks, followed by what to look for when shopping for a starter drone.
DJI Mini 2
Best 4K Drone for Beginners
The DJI Mini 2 is the best drone you can get for under $500. The 249g flyer folds up for easy storage and offers flight times of up to 31 minutes between charges. It includes a remote control, but you’ll need to add a smartphone (Android or iOS) for a camera view and control.
The camera is a good one, with support for 4K30 recording and 12MP stills. It skips HDR support, though, a downside for sunrise and sunset scenes, but you do get Raw DNG photo support. The 4K video and Raw support are the notable camera upgrades versus the $300 DJI Mini SE.
Obstacle sensors aren’t included with the Mini 2, and that’s really the biggest detriment for pilots starting out. You’ll be safe flying above the treetops, but take care with this one at lower altitudes.
PROS
- Stabilized 4K camera
- Raw and JPG photo modes
- Automated Quickshots
- Long flight time
- Stronger motors and connection than Mavic Mini
- GPS and other safety features
- No FAA registration required
CONS
- Still no color profiles for JPGs and video
- Omits obstacle avoidance and HDR
- Doesn’t include ActiveTrack or Hyperlapse
Read Our DJI Mini 2 Review
DJI Mini 3 Pro
Best Starter Drone with Obstacle Avoidance
If you want a drone you can fly confidently in complex environments with trees and other obstacles, it’s worthwhile to spend more on a beginner model with obstacle detection sensors and the DJI Mini 3 Pro fits the bill. The 249g drone includes three-way obstacle sensors for safer flight with automated navigation around obstructions.
The camera is also a step up from the Mini 2. The 3 Pro sports a Quad Bayer sensor for 4K60 video and your choice of 48MP or oversampled 12MP still photos. The standard color profile provides pleasing video out of the camera, and you have the option to use a 10-bit flat look if you’ve got color grading …….