In the world of photography and videography, drones are used to take pictures from the air. One type of drone available on the market is a mini drone.
The use of the mini drone itself can be adjusted according to needs. For those of you who are using drones for the first time, it may be difficult to choose the best product.
For that, in this article we will discuss the recommendations for the best mini drones and how to choose them. We will also explain the advantages of mini drones. You'll find good mini drone brands like DJI, Xiaomi and Apex in our review. Happy reading!
The advantages of mini drones
Judging from the name, the mini drone of course has a smaller size so that it is compact and light in weight. Among drone users, mini drones are also referred to as quadcopters. Meanwhile, for beginners, using a mini drone is the right option to practice your skills as a drone controller.
Another advantage of mini drones is that they can perform maneuvers that are more agile than regular drones. Mini drones can pass between trees and back and forth in the house. When falling, the risk experienced tends not to be too great thanks to its small weight and size.
Not only professional use, you can use the mini drone as a toy or just take selfies. In addition, the price of mini drones is certainly more affordable compared to regular, larger drones. So, mini drones can be used as an alternative for those of you who have a limited budget.
How to choose a mini drone?
Before we give the best product recommendations, we will explain how to choose the right mini drone. Please consider the following important points so that you don't make the wrong choice when you want to buy a mini drone online.
Customize to your needs
Maybe you are quite curious, how much is the current price of mini drones? Generally, mini drones are divided into two categories that have been adapted to the needs, namely the type of racing and high performance.
To find out the prices and advantages of each type of mini drone, find the answer through the explanation below.
Drone racing, for extreme sports and recording
Drone racing is a drone racing sport that can be followed by amateur pilots. During the game, the drone pilot wears a device called an HMD or head-mounted display.
These virtual reality goggles are required to complete the FPV system or first-person view in drone racing activities.
Drone pilots can view camera captured images in real time via FPV goggles. Thanks to this technology, the ability of racing drones to become more agile in crossing narrow tracks and able to avoid collisions.
On the other hand, this type of drone must fly at a speed of more than 80 km/hour. This makes drones for racing on average equipped with high-voltage batteries.
In addition to high speed, the maneuvers carried out by drones are also diverse. Check whether the target drone can turn, rotate, dive, and tilt up to an angle of 1–80 degrees with agility.
To be able to maximize the functions of this mini drone, you have to practice a lot and be prepared to face high risks.
Your skills will greatly affect the drone's ability when used for racing or doing extreme recording.
High performance drone, for professional recording
For professional recording needs, use a drone with high performance, especially in the camera section. This type of drone is generally equipped with recording modes ranging from HD to 4K. One of the well-known brands with high performance capabilities is DJI.
In contrast to agile racing drones, high-performance drones move steadily for smooth shots. To view the recording results, the pilot uses a smartphone that is placed on the remote device.
This type of drone is also equipped with advanced features such as QuickShot, automatic takeoff, obstacle sensors, and so on.
Pay attention to the quality of the camera
Camera quality is an important point to pay attention to if you aim to get good pictures. The size of the camera resolution on the mini drone is marked with MP or megapixel units.
For taking pictures, the average mini drone is equipped with a 10–12 MP resolution camera. For video recording, choose an HD quality camera, which is 1280 x 720 pixels. Meanwhile, if you want to get the best results, choose a camera with at least FHD quality up to 4K (3840 x 2610 pixels).
However, there are also mini drone products that are not equipped with cameras. Usually, these drones are used only for flight training for novice pilots. In addition, mini drones without cameras can also be used as toys for teenagers aged 14 years and over.
Check battery capacity and flight duration
Next, you need to understand that battery capacity affects the flight duration of the mini drone. The battery capacity in mini drones varies, of course, the largest usually reaches 2,500 mAh.
In terms of flight duration, a mini drone without a camera can fly for a maximum of ten minutes. Meanwhile, high-performance drones from well-known brands like DJI are capable of flying for thirty minutes.
You need to know, when the drone flies higher, the wind strength is certainly stronger. This also causes the drone's battery to drain quickly.
For this reason, drone pilots usually provide spare batteries so they can fly longer. If you need a spare battery, you can purchase it separately. However, there are also products that are sold in bundles with extra batteries.
Pay attention to the flight distance
Another thing that needs to be considered is the flight distance on the mini drone, especially for taking pictures. Mini toy drones usually have a short flight distance, which is about 5–30 meters. However, it is different with high-performance drones that can fly up to a distance of 5 km or more.
The flying ability of the drone is also affected by the signal conditions and the location where you fly the drone.
If the flying location is a densely populated area, drones usually cannot fly the maximum distance. Even more so if you fly it in a no-fly zone like an airport or defense building.
Check the features offered
The features offered in each product certainly affect your interest when buying a mini drone. For those of you who are still beginners, you will need automatic take-off and landing features. Some products even provide a training mode feature that is specifically used for flight training.
For photography and videography, consider the camera's zoom capability and choice of shooting modes.
In addition, there is also a flight mode that is available in a variety of options. Call it a flying mode that can perform maneuvers automatically, perform boomerang patterns, and so on.
The 10 best mini drone recommendations
Next, we'll recommend ten of the best mini drones we've selected based on how to vote above. These products are carefully selected by considering product quality, buyer reviews, and the level of trust in the seller. Our products are sorted by popularity from various marketplaces.
1. Emax - EZ Pilot Beginner Indoor FPV Racing Drone With 600TVL CMOS Camera 37CH 25mW RC Quadcopter RTF
If you are a beginner who is interested in trying and learning how to fly a racing drone well, choose this product. To improve the experience while supporting the needs of beginner racing drone pilots, purchasing this product is equipped with a Virtual Reality Goggle. More fun, right?
This mini racing drone with a camera is also quite safe to play indoors, even by small children. So, your child can play along while practicing flying a racing drone.
In terms of operation, it is quite easy. You will be provided with a remote control with very simple settings. Immediately hone your agility using this racing drone, OK!
- Type: Drone racing
- Video and photo resolution: Not mentioned
- Battery: 450 mAh 1S battery
- Flight duration: 4 minutes
- Flying distance: Not mentioned
- Feature: First Person VR, Smart Height Assist
- Size: Not mentioned
2. Eachine - Drone Micro FPV Quadcopter 5.8G 1000TVL 40CH HD Professional Camera VR-009
This mini RC drone has a 6-axis gyroscope sensor which makes it able to fly quite stable. If you are looking for a cheap mini racing drone with a camera, buying this product can be the right solution.
Interestingly, this drone purchase is equipped with Mini FPV Goggles. That way, you can see the camera captured images in real time. To test your dexterity, use the furniture and the rest of the room in your house as the track.
- Type: Drone racing
- Video and photo resolution: Not mentioned
- Battery: 3.7V 200mAh Li-Po
- Flight duration: 5–6 minutes
- Flying distance: Maximum control distance: 70m
- Feature: 360 Turning, Tumbling Pattern
- Size: 8.3 cm x 8.3 cm x 4.35 cm
3. BETAFPV - V3 Whoop Quadcopter
This BETAFPV racing drone is powered by a powerful motor engine that allows it to fly at high speeds. This drone is also supported by a camera that can record 4K very clearly.
If you're a filmmaker who needs aerial video footage in extreme style, this product is a must-go. Beta95X V3 is also designed to be quite compact, but is able to minimize camera shake. So, the recorded video that you get will look smooth.
- Type: Drone racing
- Video and photo resolution: Video: 4K (3840 × 2160) for BETAFPV camera type・Photo: not stated
- Battery: 450 mAh 4S battery (battery not included)
- Flight duration: 4.5 minutes
- Flying distance: 600 m
- Feature: Not mentioned
- Size: Not mentioned
4. Xiaomi - MITU Smart Drone RC Quadcopter Drone HD Camera 720P
When flying the drone too far, there may be a fear if at any time the drone gets lost or falls. Well, with Headless Mode, the drone will fly in the direction of the remote control. This mini drone made by Xiaomi also provides automatic landing and takeoff features using just one button.
Judging from its ability to capture images, this drone is very suitable to be used as an aerial selfie device. You can also live stream directly via your smartphone to find out the right selfie position. So, this product is ideal for those of you who like to capture selfie photos in every moment.
- Type: High performance drones
- Video and photo resolution: Video: HD (1280 x 720)・Photo: 1600 x 1200
- Battery: 920 mAh Li-Po
- Flight duration: 9–10 minutes
- Flying distance: 50 m
- Feature: Headless mode, G-sensor Mode, Throw Fly, Direction Flip, One Key Takeoff/Landing
- Size: 9.1cm x 9.1cm x 3.8cm
5. DJI - Mini SE
If you are looking for a mini drone with high camera specifications, but at an affordable price, then choose this product.
When flown in an outdoor area, this drone is able to withstand wind speeds of up to 10.5 meters per second or level 5. This drone from DJI is also equipped with a 2.7K resolution camera with wireless coverage support.
You also don't need to worry if you are not too proficient in operating it. The DJI Fly App on this product is quite easy to use, even for beginners. In addition, if you buy a combo package, you will also get a propeller protector so that the drone is safer from collisions.
- Type: High performance drones
- Video and photo resolution: Video: 2.7K (2720 × 1530) 24/25/30p・Photo: 12 MP
- Battery: 2,250 mAh
- Flight duration: Maximum 30 minutes
- Flying distance: Maximum 4 km (FCC)
- Feature: Vision Sensor
- Size: Folded: 13.8 cm × 8.1 cm × 5.8 cm・Unfolded with propeller: 24.5 cm × 28.9 cm × 5.6 cm
6. DJI - Tello
One of the advantages of this DJI mini drone is its ability to perform acrobatic movements. The size of this drone is also very compact and tiny so that it is able to maneuver in tight spaces. Best of all, you can fly this tiny drone in the palm of your hand.
Throw the DJI Tello into the sky, the drone will fly through the air. However, considering that the body is very light, this drone is not recommended to be flown in outdoor areas.
Well, for those of you who like coding programs, choose this mini drone. You can make coding to engineer patterns and fly paths through a tool called Stract.
- Type: Drone racing
- Video and photo resolution: Video: HD (1280 x 720)・Photo: 5 MP
- Battery: 1.1 Ah/3.8 V
- Flight duration: Maximum 13 minutes
- Flying distance: Maximum 100m
- Feature: Throw & Go, 8D Flips, Bounce Mode, Auto Takeoff/Landing, Failsafe Protection, and so on
- Size: 9.8 cm × 9.25 cm × 4.1 cm
7. Xiaomi - Jellyfish Drone Mini Air Craft RC 720P WiFi FPV
In addition to being compact, this drone is also equipped with a storage box that makes it even more practical to carry anywhere.
Amazingly, this drone is equipped with somatosensory sensors that can detect body language including finger movements. Try to swing your hand at the drone at a distance of 3 meters, the drone will capture your photo automatically.
Interestingly, there is a Smart Pet Drone feature that allows the drone to follow pets that are locked from the operating system.
With this drone, you can play with your dog or cat in your home. Fun, right? For those of you who prioritize the ease of use of the drone even with finger movements, this product must be taken into account.
- Type: High performance drones
- Video and photo resolution: Videos: HD (1280 x 720)・Photos: 2560 x 1440
- Battery: 1.100mAh 3.85V
- Flight duration: Not mentioned
- Flying distance: Not mentioned
- Feature: Smart Pet Drone, GPS Positioning, 360 degree rotation video, 3 exclusive flight control modes
- Size: 10.2 cm x 10.2 cm x 3.3 cm
8. DJI - Mini 2
This product is a new generation of the DJI Mavic Mini drone. The features embedded in this product are also quite a lot.
For example, the Fly Spots feature allows you to define a flight route. So, you no longer need to control it manually. For photography, this mini drone is also reliable because it has many features, such as Panorama, QuickShots, and others.
Interestingly, this product is capable of recording up to 4K quality. Not only that, the flight distance can even reach 10 km if you use the FCC remote. Thus, this DJI Mini 2 is ideal for those of you who like to travel while making travel videos.
- Type: High performance drones
- Video and photo resolution: Video: 4K (3840 × 2160) @24/25/30 fps・Photo: 12 MP
- Battery: 2,250 mAh
- Flight duration: Maximum 31 minutes
- Flying distance: Maximum 10 km (FCC)
- Feature: 4x Zoom, QuickShots, Panorama, Fly Spots, Enhanced Photo and more
- Size: Folded: 13.8 cm × 8.1 cm × 5.8 cmUnfolded with propeller: 24.5 cm × 28.9 cm × 5.6 cm
9. JJRC - 3 in 1 Mini Drone TERZETTO Ground Water Air Racing Boat
This mini drone has quite a lot of uniqueness. Besides being very small in size, this product can be played in three modes, namely as a drone, vehicle, and RC boat. So, if you want to give a remote control toy to your child, choose this product.
In accordance with the recommendations from the manufacturer, make sure your child is at least 14 years old, yes! This mini drone from JJRC is also capable of 360-degree maneuvers. However, make sure you operate it again at a safe distance so that it is more flexible when playing it.
- Type: Drone racing
- Video and photo resolution: Not available
- Battery: 3.7V 150mAh 30C Li-Po battery
- Flight duration: 5–7 minutes
- Flying distance: Maximum control distance 80 meters
- Feature: Speed conversion, headless mode, 360° degree tumbling
- Size: Drone: 8.5 cm x 8.5 cm x 2.8 cm・RC boat: 8.5 cm x 8.2 cm x 3 cm
10. Apex - Chost Racing Drone-02
To operate this drone, you will be provided with a remote control that is powered by 2 AAA batteries. Unfortunately, its small size makes this mini drone unable to fly far. Even so, for those of you who are looking for a toy drone, this product can be the right option.
When the drone hits a wall or hard object, the drone will not be easily damaged. This is because the propeller of this drone is equipped with a protective ABS plastic material that is resistant to impact. Even though the price is cheap, this Apex brand drone can maneuver up to 360 degrees, you know!
- Type: Drone racing
- Video and photo resolution: 3.7V/220mAh
- Battery: Not available
- Flight duration: 7–10 minutes
- Flying distance: Maximum 80m
- Feature: 3D Stunt, can rotate 360 degrees, altitude hold, headless mode, and so on
- Size: 8cm x 8cm x 3.4cm
Conclusion
We have thoroughly reviewed the recommendations for the best mini drones for you. We have also reviewed good mini drone products from various brands that are often found on the market. Have you found the product that best suits your needs?
If you want to start learning how to operate a drone, start with cheap drones. Meanwhile, if you are advanced enough, consider buying a product with high performance.
