Drones are becoming more popular each year, attracting both hobbyists and professionals looking to capture stunning aerial views. In 2024, finding the best drones for beginners is easier than ever. Many models now offer user-friendly controls, affordable pricing, and a seamless flying experience. If you’re interested in mastering aerial photography, shooting videos, or simply exploring the skies, choosing the right drone is key to a smooth and enjoyable flight.
This guide covers the top and the best beginner drones of 2024, focusing on essential features like camera quality, flight time, and ease of use. With the right drone, you can confidently take to the skies and improve your flying skills.
Why the Right Beginner Drone Matters
Starting with the right drone makes learning easier and reduces frustration. New pilots benefit from drones that offer GPS navigation, auto-return, and stability controls. These features ensure smoother flights, minimize crashes, and keep you in control.
Drones with GPS provide accurate flight paths, and at the same time, features like altitude hold and one-key takeoff/landing make flying simple. This combination allows you to focus on enjoying the flight without worrying about complex maneuvers. Moreover, obstacle avoidance helps prevent collisions, while auto-landing ensures safe descents when the battery is low.
For beginners, durability is crucial. Many drones come with sturdy frames and protective designs that withstand bumps and crashes. If you’re interested in photography or videography, look for drones equipped with high-definition or 4K cameras to capture breathtaking visuals.
Top 5 Best Drones for Beginners: Our Picks for New Pilots
Choosing the best beginner drone can feel overwhelming, with so many models offering different features and prices. The key is to find a drone that combines ease of use, durability, and advanced features like GPS and camera quality, all without being too complicated. After extensive research, we’ve narrowed down the top five drones that offer excellent performance for beginners.
DJI Mini 2
DJI Mini 2 SE Fly More Combo
$349.99 in stock
The DJI Mini 2 is a standout choice for new drone pilots. Weighing just under 250 grams, it’s lightweight, making it exempt from FAA registration. It offers 4K video quality, 31-minute flight time, and a range of up to 10 kilometers. Its auto-return home feature ensures the drone safely returns when the battery is low or if it loses connection.
Ryze Tello
Tello Quadcopter Drone with HD Camera and VR
The Ryze Tello, powered by DJI, is an affordable, entry-level drone that’s great for learning. It comes with a 5MP camera and can shoot 720p HD video. It also features 13 minutes of flight time and can be easily controlled through the Tello app, making it a great choice for practicing indoors or outdoors.
Holy Stone HS720
Holy Stone HS720G GPS Drones with 4k Camera
$229.99 in stock
The Holy Stone HS720 packs premium features into a mid-range price point. It comes with 2K video quality, GPS, and a 26-minute flight time. The auto-return home feature ensures it safely returns if the battery runs low or connection is lost, while brushless motors provide powerful, quiet operation.
Parrot Anafi
Parrot ANAFI Drone, Foldable Quadcopter Drone with 4K HDR Camera
The Parrot Anafi is known for its 4K HDR camera and 180° tilt gimbal, perfect for stunning aerial photography. It has a flight time of 25 minutes and a range of up to 2.5 miles. This foldable drone is compact and easy to transport, making it a great choice for travel.
Holy Stone HS110D
Holy Stone HS110D FPV RC Drone
$71.99 in stock
The Holy Stone HS110D is a fantastic choice for beginners, offering 1080P HD live video and FPV (First-Person View) for an immersive flying experience. It comes with a 120° wide-angle camera, which is perfect for capturing aerial photos and videos. The drone is equipped with helpful beginner features like altitude hold, headless mode, and one-key start/landing, making it easy to control for first-time flyers. It also includes 15 minutes of flight time, which is more than enough for practice and learning.
Our Top Pick: The Best Drone for Beginners
After comparing all the options, one drone stands out from the rest if you are looking for a beginner drone. With an unbeatable blend of power, precision, and user-friendliness, those best drones set the standard for beginners. If you’re ready to take control of the skies, let’s take a closer look at our top pick for the best drone.
Key Features to Look for in Beginner Drones
1. Camera Quality
If you’re aiming to capture stunning aerial shots, camera quality matters. While many entry-level drones offer 1080p video, consider a beginner drones like the DJI Mini 2 if you want 4K resolution for better image quality.
2. Flight Time
Most beginner drones offer between 10 to 30 minutes of flight per charge. For example, the DJI Mini 2 delivers an impressive 31 minutes of flight time, while budget options like the Ryze Tello provide around 13 minutes. Longer flight times give you more practice without constant recharging.
3. GPS and Stability
Drones equipped with GPS provide superior stability, especially in windy conditions, and important feature for drone beginners. They also automatically return to the starting point if they lose connection or if the battery runs low—an essential feature for drone beginners.
4. Portability
If you’re planning to travel with your drone, opt for models like the Parrot Anafi, which offers a foldable, lightweight design. Compact drones are easier to carry and store, making them perfect for beginner drone travelers.
5. Safety Features
Safety features like auto-return, altitude hold, and obstacle avoidance are vital for beginners drone pilots. These reduce the chances of crashes and make drones much easier to control.
Safety Guidelines for Beginners Drone Pilots
Before you start flying, especially if you are a beginner drone pilot, it’s crucial to follow key safety regulations and best practices to ensure a safe, legal flying experience. Even though the rules may vary depending on your location, there are several universal tips to keep in mind, particularly for beginners.
1. Know the Licensing Requirements
In the U.S., drones weighing over 250 grams must be registered with the FAA. Drones like the DJI Mini 2 fall under this limit, so you can skip the registration process. However, if you plan to use your drone commercially (e.g., aerial photography), you need a Part 107 License from the FAA, which requires passing a knowledge test.
For recreational flying, follow these rules:
- Fly only for fun or recreation.
- Stay below 400 feet in uncontrolled airspace.
- Keep your drone in sight.
- Avoid flying near other aircraft.
2. Avoid No-Fly Zones
Flying in restricted areas (e.g., airports, military bases, national parks) can lead to hefty fines. Always check for airspace restrictions using tools like the B4UFLY app.
3. Respect Privacy
Always be mindful of privacy concerns. Avoid flying over private property or recording without permission. In many places, it’s illegal to fly close to people or events without authorization.
4. Use Safety Features
Take advantage of built-in safety features like auto-return, obstacle avoidance, and GPS stabilization. These tools help prevent crashes and ensure a smoother flight experience.
5. Check the Weather
Always fly in good weather conditions. High winds, rain, or fog can damage your drone and make flying dangerous.
What features should I look for in a beginner drone?
When choosing a beginner drone, look for features like GPS, altitude hold, one-key takeoff/landing, obstacle avoidance, and a durable build. These features make flying easier and safer, especially for those just starting out.
Do I need to register my drone with the FAA?
In the U.S., drones that weigh more than 250 grams must be registered with the FAA. However, many beginner-friendly drones, like the DJI Mini 2, fall below this weight and don’t require registration.
How long does the battery last on beginner drones?
Battery life on beginner drones typically ranges from 10 to 30 minutes per flight, depending on the model. Higher-end drones often have longer flight times, while budget models may need more frequent recharging.
Are drones with cameras necessary for beginners?
While not essential, drones with cameras can enhance the flying experience by allowing you to capture aerial photos and videos. For those interested in photography, opt for a drone with at least a 1080p camera or higher.
How far can beginner drones fly?
The flight range of beginner drones varies by model. Entry-level drones may have a range of 100 to 500 meters, while more advanced models can fly several kilometers.
What is the best beginner drone for under $200?
The Holy Stone HS110D and Ryze Tello are popular beginner drones under $200, offering decent flight time, ease of use, and basic camera functionality for new pilots.
Can I fly my drone indoors?
Yes, many beginner drones are suitable for indoor flights, especially compact models like the Ryze Tello. However, it’s important to fly cautiously to avoid obstacles and damage.