Ever dreamed of capturing your mountain bike ride from a breathtaking bird’s-eye view? With follow-me drones, you can redefine your outdoor experiences. Gone are the days when you had to manually control your drone while trying to capture action shots.
Follow-me drones allow you to record those thrilling moments effortlessly.
But not all follow-me drones are created equal. From intelligent tracking systems to stunning 4K footage and reliable obstacle avoidance, finding the perfect drone can be a daunting task.
That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you.
In this article, we’ll explore the five best follow-me drones on the market, breaking down their features, stats, and real-world applications.
Disclaimer: Always follow local drone regulations and respect privacy and safety guidelines when flying your drone.
Let’s dive in and understand the concept of drones that follow you.
What Are Follow-Me Drones?
Drones That Follow You, also known as follow-me drones, are autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with advanced tracking systems. These drones are designed to lock onto a target, usually a person or object, and autonomously follow their movements, allowing for hands-free aerial photography and videography.
Why should you consider purchasing a drone that follows you? The answer lies in the section.
Why Follow-Me Drones Are Game-Changers
The rise of follow-me drones has redefined aerial photography and videography. Here’s why they’ve become indispensable:
- Hands-Free Operation: Perfect for activities like biking, skiing, or hiking, you can focus on your adventure while the drone takes care of filming.
- Creative Freedom: These drones offer cinematic tracking shots that were once impossible without a large crew.
- Safety and Precision: With advanced obstacle-avoidance systems, follow-me drones ensure smooth flights even in challenging environments.
- Action Tracking: Equipped with advanced tracking systems, these drones can effortlessly track your movements, ensuring you receive perfectly framed shots without the need for intervention.
- Versatile Shooting Modes: From orbiting around you to capturing stunning panoramic shots, drones with follow mode offer a range of shooting options that allow you to unleash your creativity and capture unique perspectives.
Let’s now take a closer look at some of the top picks of follow-me drones.
5 Best Drones That Follow You
Among the myriad options available, we’ve selected 5 drones with advanced follow-me features.
1. DJI Air 2S
Credit: DJI
The DJI Air 2S is a powerful drone packed with impressive features. This drone is equipped with a 1-inch CMOS sensor, allowing it to capture stunning 20-megapixel photos and record 5.4K videos.
With its ActiveTrack 4.0 technology, the DJI Air 2S can intelligently track and follow subjects with great precision. Whether you are hiking, biking, or simply exploring the great outdoors, this drone will seamlessly capture every moment.
Specifications
| Feature | DJI Air 2S |
| Camera | 1-inch CMOS Sensor, 20MP |
| Video Resolution | 5.4K @ 30fps, 4K @ 60fps |
| Photo Resolution | 20MP |
| Gimbal | 3-axis gimbal stabilization |
| Obstacle Sensing | Forward, Backward, Upward, Downward Vision Systems, Infrared Sensing System |
| Maximum Flight Time | 31 minutes |
| Maximum Flight Speed | 42 mph (68.4 kph) |
| Transmission Range | 12km (7.5 mi) |
| Transmission Technology | O3 (OCUSYNCTM 3.0) |
| Intelligent Flight Modes | MasterShots, QuickShots, FocusTrack, ActiveTrack |
| Remote Controller | DJI RC-N1 |
| Mobile Device Compatibility | DJI Fly App |
| Weight | 595g (1.31 lbs) |
2. DJI Mini 3 Pro
Credit: DJI
For those seeking a more portable option, the DJI Mini 3 Pro is a perfect choice. This lightweight drone is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet it offers advanced features that make it a powerhouse in the sky.
With its upgraded motors and enhanced flight performance, the DJI Mini 3 Pro can effortlessly keep up with fast-paced activities. Whether you are racing down a mountain trail or participating in extreme sports, this drone will document every exhilarating moment.
Specifications
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro |
| Weight | Less than 249g |
| Camera | 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor |
| Video Resolution | Up to 4K/60fps |
| HDR Video | Yes |
| Still Photo Resolution | Up to 48MP |
| FocusTrack | ActiveTrack, Spotlight, Point of Interest |
| MasterShots | Create automated cinematic sequences |
| Timelapse | Create hyperlapse or timelapse videos |
| True Vertical Shooting | Native portrait mode filming |
| Tri-Directional Obstacle Sensing | Forward, backward, and downward sensors |
| APAS 4.0 (Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems) | Obstacle avoidance and automatic flight assistance |
| DJI O3 Digital Video Transmission | Up to 12km range (DJI RC-N1) |
| Max Flight Time | 34 minutes (Standard Battery) |
| Remote Controller Options | DJI RC-N1 or DJI RC |
| Max Video Bitrate | 18 Mbps |
| Latency | 120 ms |
3. Autel Robotics EVO Nano
Credit: Autel
The Autel Robotics EVO Nano is another exceptional drone that follows you with precision and accuracy. This compact drone offers an impressively long flight time of up to 40 minutes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the action without worrying about battery life.
Equipped with intelligent flight modes, such as Orbit and Waypoint, the Autel Robotics EVO Nano ensures that you can capture stunning cinematic shots effortlessly.
Specifications
| Feature | Autel Robotics Evo Nano |
| Weight | 249g |
| Camera | 1/1.28-inch (0.8-inch) CMOS sensor |
| Video Resolution | Up to 5.7K/30fps, 4K/60fps |
| HDR Video | Yes (HDR 10) |
| Still Photo Resolution | Up to 50MP |
| FocusTrack | DynamicTrack, Spotlight, Point of Interest |
| CineTrace Pro | AI-powered subject tracking with obstacle avoidance |
| SkyLink 2.0 Video Transmission | Up to 10km range |
| Max Flight Time | 29 minutes (Standard Battery) |
| Remote Controller Options | Autel Smart Controller V2, Autel Lite Remote |
| Max Video Bitrate | 120 Mbps |
| Latency | 130 ms |
4. Skydio S2+
Credit: Skydio
When it comes to autonomous drones, the Skydio S2+ shines brightly. This drone is equipped with six 4K navigation cameras, enabling it to track and follow subjects with unrivaled precision.
The Skydio S2+ is perfect for capturing dynamic and fast-paced activities, such as mountain biking or snowboarding. With its advanced obstacle avoidance system and intelligent tracking capabilities, this drone will seamlessly navigate through any environment.
Specifications
| Feature | Skydio S2+ |
| AI-powered Autonomy | 6-camera obstacle avoidance, advanced collision avoidance, subject tracking |
| Cinematography | Keyframe flight paths, automated shot sequences, cinematic object following |
| Versatility | Sports mode for high-speed tracking, Cinematic mode for smooth footage, Orbit mode for circular filming |
| Camera | 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, f/2.8 lens |
| Video Resolution | Up to 4K/60fps |
| HDR Video | Yes (HDR 10) |
| Still Photo Resolution | Up to 20MP |
| Remote Controller Options | Skydio 2 Controller |
| Max Flight Time | Up to 35 minutes (Standard Battery) |
| Range | Up to 4km |
| Live Data Feed | HD resolution, low latency |
5. DJI Mavic 3 Pro
Credit: DJI
The DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC is a top-of-the-line drone that offers unparalleled performance and versatility. Equipped with an impressive Hasselblad camera and a 4/3-inch CMOS sensor, this drone captures breathtaking 20-megapixel photos and records cinematic 4K videos.
With its advanced flight modes, including Spotlight 2.0 and ActiveTrack 5.0, the DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC ensures that you can effortlessly capture stunning footage from every angle.
Specifications
| Feature | DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC |
| Weight | 998g (drone + DJI RC) |
| Camera | Hasselblad L2D-20c 4/3 CMOS sensor |
| Video Resolution | Up to 5.7K/60fps, 4K/120fps |
| HDR Video | Yes (10-bit D-Log) |
| Still Photo Resolution | Up to 20MP |
| FocusTrack | ActiveTrack, Spotlight, Point of Interest |
| MasterShots | Create automated cinematic sequences |
| Timelapse | Create hyperlapse or timelapse videos |
| True Vertical Shooting | Native portrait mode filming |
| Tri-Directional Obstacle Sensing | Forward, backward, and downward sensors |
| APAS 4.0 (Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems) | Obstacle avoidance and automatic flight assistance |
| DJI O3 Digital Video Transmission | Up to 15km range (DJI RC) |
| Max Flight Time | 46 minutes (Standard Battery) |
| Remote Controller | DJI RC |
| Max Video Bitrate | 200 Mbps |
| Latency | 120 ms |
As you can see there are plenty of follow me drone options to choose from. But how do you choose which one is right for you?
Let’s take a closer look at factors to consider before buying a follow-me drone.
What to Look for While Choosing a Follow Me Drone
When it comes to choosing the best drone that follows you, here are the key factors to get a drone that meets your needs:
1. Camera
This is a no-brainer. After all, the whole point of having a drone that follows you is to capture stunning aerial footage. Look for a drone that has a high-resolution camera capable of shooting in 4K or even higher. The drone’s camera sensor size and resolution determine the detail and clarity of your photos and videos. Larger sensors and higher resolutions generally produce better results, especially in low-light conditions.
2. Flight Time
Since follow me drones are often used for capturing action-packed moments, you’ll want a drone that can stay in the air for a decent amount of time. Look for a drone that offers a flight time of at least 20 minutes or more. This will ensure that you have enough time to capture the shots you want without constantly having to return to base for a battery change.
3. Follow Me Technology: GPS Tracking or ActiveTrack
The follow me drone relies on advanced tracking technology. There are two main types of follow me technology: GPS tracking and ActiveTrack.
GPS tracking uses satellite positioning to track and follow the GPS coordinates of a target. This technology is more accurate and reliable, making it ideal for areas with an open sky and good satellite reception. Drones that use GPS tracking are great for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing.
On the other hand, ActiveTrack technology uses computer vision algorithms to detect and track a target in real time. This technology is ideal for scenarios where GPS signals might be weak or obstructed, such as indoor activities or in dense urban environments. Drones with ActiveTrack technology are perfect for capturing fast-paced action sports or filming in crowded areas.
4. Obstacle Sensing
Obstacle sensing is an essential safety feature to consider when choosing a drone that follows you. This technology allows the drone to detect and avoid obstacles in its path, preventing collisions and accidents. Look for a drone that has obstacle sensors on multiple sides, including the front, back, sides, and bottom. This will provide maximum protection against obstacles during autonomous flight.
With these factors in mind, here is a quick comparison table that will allow you to choose the best follow me drone:
| Drone | Camera | Flight Time | Follow me
Technology |
Obstacle Sensing | Base Price |
| DJI Air 2S | 1-inch CMOS, 20 MP | 31 minutes | ActiveTrack | 4 Directions | USD 799 |
| DJI Mini 3 Pro | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48 MP | 34 minutes | ActiveTrack | Tri-Directional | USD 759 |
| Autel Robotics EVO Nano | 1/2-inch CMOS, 48 MP | 29 minutes | Dynamic Track 2.1 | Tri-Directional | USD 389 |
| Skydio S2+ | 1/2.3 inch CMOS, 12 MP | 27 minutes | GPS Tracking | Omnidirectional | USD 1,099 |
| DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC | Hasselblad Camera: 4/3 CMOS, 20 MP
Medium Tele Camera: 1/1.3? CMOS, 48 MP |
43 minutes | GPS + Galileo + BeiDou | Omnidirectional | USD 2,199 |
Conclusion
Drones that follow you have opened new horizons for content creators, adventurers, and professionals.
Follow me drone technology continues to push boundaries, offering unprecedented creative and practical possibilities.
With options ranging from beginner-friendly models like the DJI Mini 3 Pro to advanced drones like the DJI Mavic 3 Pro, there’s a perfect follow-me drone for every pilot.
With the right combination of features such as a high-quality camera, long flight time, advanced tracking technology, and obstacle-sensing capabilities, you can capture breathtaking footage from a unique perspective.
So, which one will you choose to take your adventures to the skies? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Are Active Track And Sensors In Follow Me Drones?
Active Track and Sensors are advanced tracking and sensing technologies that enable the drone to follow its subject accurately and safely, even in challenging environments and at high speeds.
2. What is the “Follow Me” Option on Drones?
The “Follow Me” feature on drones allows the aircraft to autonomously track and follow a moving subject.
Combining advanced GPS technology, artificial intelligence, and computer vision, these drones can keep you in frame without any manual control. It offers a hands-free experience, allowing you to focus on your activities while the drone captures mesmerizing footage from unique perspectives.
3. How Does a Drone Follow Me?
Drones with the follow me function use various methods to track and follow a person. Most commonly, they utilize the GPS signal from your smartphone or a dedicated tracking device. By connecting to the drone’s app, the aircraft receives real-time information about your location, ensuring accurate tracking.
Additionally, some advanced drones employ object recognition and computer vision algorithms to precisely follow a subject, even in complex environments.
4. How Long Can a Drone Follow You?
The duration a drone can follow you depends on several factors, including its battery life and the specific model’s capabilities. Battery life varies among drones, with some lasting as little as 20 minutes while others fly for over 30 minutes on a single charge.
However, with advancements in drone technology, battery life is continually improving. Additionally, modern drones often offer return-to-home features, automatically returning to their take-off point when the battery is running low. This ensures your drone won’t get stranded in the sky while following you.
5. What is it Called When a Drone Follows You?
When a drone actively follows you, it is commonly referred to as “autonomous tracking” or “active tracking.” These terms embody the ability of the drone to independently track your movements and adjust its flight path to keep you in focus.
The follow-me function enables the drone to act as your aerial camera operator, capturing your adventures from stunning angles while you remain completely engrossed in the moment.
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