Mini drones are all the rage these days, and for good reason. They’re versatile, easy to use, and won’t break the bank. These small birds are perfect for beginners who want to learn the ropes of flying drones.
This article will dive into the best mini drones on the market, helping you find the one that gives you the most bang for your buck.
First, let’s clarify what type of drone is considered a ‘mini-drone’.
What is a Mini Drone?
A mini drone is a type of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) that weighs less than 55 grams. These little flying machines are great for taking photos, recording videos, and many other purposes.
Small drones, also commonly referred to as mini drones or micro drones often feature lightweight materials, making them agile and maneuverable in different environments.
Some of these mini-drones have become indispensable tools for aerial photography and videography. While many others are useful for surveying, mapping, or even delivering packages.
What makes a mini drone so appealing? Let’s find out.
Why Should You Buy a Mini Drone?
Mini drones are quite fascinating but due to their small size, many people wonder why choose a small drone. Small drones can be beneficial for several reasons. The following are some justifications for buying a mini drone:
Portability
Mini drones are smaller in size as compared to their bigger counterparts. This quality makes it easy to carry them. Their small size enhances mobility and convenience.
Indoor usage
Flying indoors is a great use of mini drones. Their compact body makes it easier to control in tight areas. You can easily fly mini drones indoors without running the danger of damaging property or hurting people.
Affordability
Mini drones are typically more affordable than their bigger counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for individuals who want to experience drone flying without a significant financial investment.
Before we get into the top mini drones, let us look into the criteria you must consider before buying these amazing machines.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Mini Drone
Whether you’re purchasing a mini drone for recreation or you want to incorporate it into your business, here are a few factors to consider before buying one:
- Price of The Drone
- Material Used
- Range of the Device
- Flying Time
- Camera & Gimble
Price of Mini Drones
Before buying a mini drone, make sure to research the cost and availability of replacement parts and accessories. Also, be careful about purchasing third-party parts and accessories. Equipment compatibility is a major issue to consider and they must last as long as the original equipment.
Also, check out the warranty information on any drones you’re considering.
Material Used
Cheaper drones are often made from plastic. While plastic can be inexpensive and light, it‘s not always durable. Also, avoid using aluminum drones, they are lightweight and do not hold up well to accidents.
If you’re trying to save money, at least consider ABS plastic, which is stronger than regular plastic. Or consider fiberglass and Carbon Fiber drones, they are much more resilient but much more expensive.
Range of a Mini Drone
As a general rule the farther your drone can fly from your transmitter the better. Cheap drones may have a limited range of only 30 meters, whereas more expensive ones can cover longer distances without losing contact with the controller.
If you’re interested in making drone footage and photography then the range becomes an important factor because extended range will allow drones to reach more places. And you will be able to take shots from a variety of angles.
Flying Time
A drone’s battery limits how long it takes to fly, 25 to 30 minutes of flying time is pretty typical. But some cheaper models last for only five minutes.
Regardless of how much flying time your drone has, buying some additional batteries and charging them before you leave home is always a good idea. So if your drone runs out of power, you can swap the battery and instantly double the time you’re able to fly!
Camera
If you are considering a drone with a camera it’s better to check out the camera specifications, paying attention to shutter speed, frame rate, aperture, and image stabilization.
All of these factors may affect the quality of your photographs.
3-Axis Gimbal
A gimbal helps keep your camera stable while you fly. Three axes (pitch, roll, and yaws) describe a drone’s different motions.
A three-axis gimballed camera will let your drone stay steady while you shoot videos. This is especially important for aerial shots because the camera needs to remain leveled so everything appears straight.
Read: New Drone Laws by State in the USA
List of 12 Best Mini Drones
There are several types of mini drones, each with its unique set of features and applications. Some are designed for specific purposes, such as surveillance, while others are meant for recreational purposes.
Here are the best mini drones in 2024
- DJI Mini 4 Pro
- DJI Mini 2 SE
- DJI Mini 3 Pro
- Hoverair X1
- DJI Air 3
- Exo Mini Pro+
- iFlight Bumblebee HD V3 BNF
- Parrot Anafi Ai
- DJI Air 2S
- DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced
- Autel Evo II Pro
- DJI Avata
1. DJI Mini 4 Pro
Source: DJI
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a high-end camera drone that weighs less than 249 grams, making it perfect for travel and on-the-go use. It features a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor that can record 4K/60fps HDR videos with stunning detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. The drone also has omnidirectional obstacle sensing, which helps it avoid obstacles and fly safely. Additionally, the Mini 4 Pro has a max transmission distance of up to 20 km, so you can capture amazing footage from far away.
Features and Specifications of DJI Mini 4 Pro
- Under 249 gm
- 4K/60fps HDR
- 1/1.3-inch CMOS Wide-Angle Camera
- 10-bit D-Log M, HLG
- Slow Motion: 4K/100fps
- Active 360° shots
- Up to 20 km Max Video Transmission Range
Pros and Cons of DJI Mini 4 Pro
Pros
- Enhanced performance of the low-light camera
- Smooth 1080p 60 fps video transmission
- Superb tracking and obstacle avoidance
- Extended battery life up to 45 minutes
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t perform great in low light camera
2. DJI Mini 2 SE
The DJI Mini 2 SE is a great entry-level drone, especially for beginners or hobbyists. It’s lightweight, weighing under 249 grams, which means you don’t have to worry about certain drone regulations in many areas. This makes it easier to fly without breaking any rules.
Despite being small and lightweight, the Mini 2 SE can capture high-quality 2.7K video footage. It has a 3-axis gimbal that stabilizes the camera, ensuring smooth and steady aerial videos even in windy conditions or when the drone moves.
One of the best features of the Mini 2 SE for new drone pilots is its user-friendly design. It has helpful functions like auto takeoff, auto landing, and stable hover, making it easy to control and fly even if you’re just starting with drones.
However, it’s important to note that the Mini 2 SE does not record in 4K resolution. So if you need the absolute highest video quality possible, this drone may not be the best choice for you. But for most beginners or casual users, the 2.7K video quality should be more than sufficient.
Features and Specifications of DJI Mini 2 SE
- Ultra-lightweight (under 249g) for easy travel and relaxed regulations.
- Shoots 2.7K video and 12MP photos with a 3-axis gimbal for smooth footage.
- Extended 31-minute flight time on a single battery.
- Easy to fly with features like auto takeoff/landing and intelligent flight modes.
- Long-range transmission up to 10km.
Pros and Cons of DJI Mini 2 SE
Pros
- Easy to travel with and exempt from some drone regulations.
- Shoots in 2.7K with a 3-axis gimbal for smooth footage.
- Up to 31 minutes on a single battery.
- Features like auto takeoff/landing and intelligent flight modes make it beginner-friendly.
- Transmission range of up to 10km.
Cons
- Not ideal for those needing the highest resolution.
- May struggle in low light conditions due to the smaller sensor.
- No obstacle avoidance sensors.
3. DJI Mini 3 Pro
Source: DJI
The mini-sized DJI Mini 3 Pro is as powerful and portable as it is regulation-friendly. It comes with a 1/1.3-inch sensor and top-tier capabilities and weighs under 250 grams. Its improved design and upgraded features such as obstacle sensing make it safer and easier to fly this mini drone.
Features and Specifications of DJI Mini 3 Pro
- Covers a distance of up to 12 km
- 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
- 4K HDR video and 48MP RAW photos
- Extended flight time of up to 34 minutes
- Tri-Directional Obstacle Sensing
Pros and Cons of DJI Mini 3 Pro
Pros
- 4K60 with digital zoom
- Popular sub 250g category
- Excellent image quality
- Three-way obstacle sensors
- Upward-tilting camera
- Two remote control options
Cons
- GPS lock-on takes some time
- Expensive
- Omits AirSense ADS-B system
4. Hoverair X1
The HoverAir X1 is incredibly portable. It’s super lightweight and folds up small, making it a great choice if you want a drone you can easily take it anywhere. It’s also very simple to fly.
There’s no need for a phone app or complicated controls, which is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a hassle-free flying experience.
This lets the drone automatically follow you, which is great for capturing activities hands-free. The video quality is decent too, shooting in 2.7K resolution and taking 12MP photos, which is good enough for social media or casual use.
However, You won’t find things like obstacle avoidance or complex flight modes that some other drones offer.
Features and Specifications of HoverAir X1
- Folds to pocket-size, lightweight.
- Shoots 2.7K video, 12MP photos.
- Stabilized footage with gimbal and electronic stabilization.
- Multiple intelligent flight modes (Follow Me, Orbit, etc.).
- Noise cancellation for clearer audio recording.
Pros and Cons of HoverAir X1
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight and folds up very small, making it easy to carry anywhere.
- No phone app or complex controls are needed. Great for beginners or those wanting a hassle-free option.
- Automatically follows you for hands-free capturing of activities.
- Shoots in 2.7K resolution, good enough for social media or casual use.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like obstacle avoidance or complex flight modes found in some drones.
- Battery life is around 15 minutes, which might be limiting for some users.
- May struggle to fly in windy conditions due to its lightweight design.
5. DJI Air 3
DJI Air 3 is the dream of every aerial photographer, it is one of the best mini drones with a camera. It comes with two industry-leading Hasselblad cameras. The DJI Air 3 offers one of the best camera performances along with expert camera options, sharper details, and vibrant colors. The DJI Air 3 features everything you need in one of the top camera drones on the market, especially if you love shooting panos and HDR photos.
Features and Specifications of DJI Air 3
- (2x) 1-1/3” CMOS Sensor
- Wide-Angle Camera |FOV: 82°| Format Equivalent: 24 mm | Aperture: f/1.7
- Medium Tele Camera | FOV: 35° | Format Equivalent: 70 mm | Aperture: f/2.8
- 46 minutes (at a consistent 25 kph) max flight time
- 32 km max distance
- 29–38 kph wind speed resistance
- Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
- Wide-Angle Camera & Medium Tele Camera
- Normal: 8-bit 4:2:0 (H.264/H.265)
- HLG/D-Log M: 10-bit 4:2:0 (H.265)
Pros and Cons of DJI Air 3
Pros
- Great battery life
- 48MP Raw and JPG still imaging
- Obstacle avoidance sensors
- 4K video at 60FPS with high color gamut
- Can use dual cameras for dolly zoom effect
Cons
- Not for chasing objects
- Larger than most mini drones
6. Exo Mini Pro+
The EXO Mini Pro+ is a new mini drone released in 2024. It also boasts a good camera with a 1/1.3in CMOS sensor that can shoot 4K HDR video and 48MP photos. With a claimed battery life of 40 minutes, you’ll have plenty of time to capture footage on a single charge. The drone also features obstacle avoidance, which can help you avoid crashes, and several intelligent flight features to simplify operation.
If you’re looking for a mini drone with a good camera, long flight time, and easy-to-use features, the EXO Mini Pro+ is a promising option.
Features and Specifications of EXO Mini Pro+
- Shoots high-quality photos at 48 megapixels.
- Features a large 1/1.3in CMOS sensor for better low-light performance
- Downward spotlight for improved low-light visibility
- Reaches speeds of up to 35mph in Sport mode
- Simplifies operation with features like Follow Me, Waypoints, and Return to Home
Pros and Cons of EXO Mini Pro+
Pros
- Works great in lighter winds
- Easy to handle and use
- Capable of shooting 48MP photos and stunning 4K UHD HDR video
Cons
- Might face challenges in strong winds
- Obstacle avoidance only in three directions
7. iFlight Bumblebee HD V3
Source: iFlight
The iFlight BumbleBee HD V3 comes with the amazing CaddX Polar Digital HD System which allows you to fly through the sky like no other mini drone. It has a CineWhoop that doesn’t have a high-pitched noise that annoys people. Mini drone iFlight BumbleBee HD V3 has lightweight Polycarbonate ducts for minimal disturbance to channel thrust and performance.
Features and Specifications of iFlight BumbleBee HD V3
- Bumper prop guards to protect the sensitive environment
- T700 Quality Carbon
- Upgraded EVA protectors
- Low Resonance frame construction
- 355.6g weight (without battery)
Pros and Cons of iFlight BumbleBee HD V3
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Not easy to break
- Upgraded EVA protectors
- No Props or frame in view
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Creates too much noise
8. Parrot Anafi Ai
Source: Parrot
Parrot Anafi Ai incorporates a 4G radio module, in addition to the Wi-fi radio, allowing it to transmit a video stream in 1080p with a 300 ms latency anywhere in the world. Its sensor supports a high megapixel count for finely detailed aerial images. Mini drone Parrot Anafi Ai uses a Quad Bayer color filter array, where groups of 4 adjacent pixels come in one single color. In real-time HDR capture mode, the signal from the four adjacent pixels is added together, resulting in an image with a greater dynamic range.
Features and Specifications of Parrot Anafi Ai
- 1/2’’ 48 MP CMOS Sensor
- Seamless 4G/WiFi switching
- 4K HDR 30 fps video, 6x zoom
- 32 minutes maximum flight time
- 14 m/s – 31.3 mph maximum wind resistance:
- MicroSD and SIM card slots
- Autonomous Photogrammetry for large-scale mapping
Pros and Cons of Parrot Anafi Ai
Pros
- High wind resistance
- Unique lens and camera features
- Adequate battery life
- Small and lightweight
Cons
- Difficult to fly
- Limited video frame rates
- Autonomous features require an extra purchase
9. DJI Air 2S
Source: DJI
DJI Air 2S is the ultimate mini drone for creatives on the go. Take this all-encompassing aerial powerhouse along anywhere to explore and record your world in breathtaking detail. With a 1-inch CMOS sensor, powerful autonomous features, and a compact body measuring just under 600g.
DJI Air 2S allows you to shoot RAW images with an impressive dynamic range of up to 12.6 stops to capture more visual data in every scene, even in challenging lighting conditions. The advanced algorithms for Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS 4.0) have been further refined, enabling mini drone DJI Air 2S to actively avoid obstacles in increasingly complex situations and at higher speeds.
Features and Specifications of DJI Air 2S
- 1-inch CMOS sensor
- 5.4K/30fps and 4K/60fps Video (20 MP camera)
- Master shots, ADS-B Air sense
- 12km FHD Transmission
- Obstacle Sensing in 4 Directions
Pros and Cons of DJI Air 2S
Pros
- HDR, Log, and Standard video profiles
- Video at up to 5.4K quality
- AirSense transponder
- Robust safety features
- Automated camera shots
- Half-hour flight time
Cons
- Less internal storage
- Doesn’t offer in-camera filters
- HDR HLG workflow for pros only
- The remote doesn’t include an EV control wheel
- Raw images don’t transfer to smartphones and tablets automatically
- App-based editing limited to 1080p output
10. DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced
Source: DJI
The DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced is a mini drone designed for professional aerial photography and videography missions. Its advanced features include a powerful camera system, precise positioning capabilities, and intelligent flight control systems. DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced allows you to capture accurate details with high-resolution thermal and visual cameras.
Features and Specifications of DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced
- 1/2” CMOS Sensor
- 640 × 512 px Thermal Camera
- 48MP Camera
- Working Temperature from -10° C to 40° C
- Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
- 10 km HD Transmission
- Centimeter-level Positioning with RTK
Pros and Cons of DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Omnidirectional obstacle sensing
- Fully compatible and can integrate an RTK module
Cons
- Single RTK antenna hinders centimeter-level accuracy
- Thermal camera may lack adjustability in some settings compared to higher-end models.
- Expensive
11. Autel Evo II Pro
Source: Autel
Autel Evo II Pro is also one of the popular mini drones with a camera. Its most notable feature is a modular camera system, offering three models that cover a range of features that meet different users’ needs, from consumers to professionals.
The standout feature of this mini drone is a modular camera system, which comes in three types and offers a variety of features to fulfill the needs of different users, from amateurs to experts.
Features and Specifications of Autel Evo II Pro
- 1-inch CMOS image sensor
- 20MP Camera, 6K/30FPS Video
- 15 km flight distance
- 5-Hour Battery Life
- 40 minutes Maximum Flight Time
- 27mph (12m/s) Maximum Wind Resistance
- 360° Obstacle Avoidance
- -10°C to 40°C Operating Temperature
Pros and Cons of Autel Evo II Pro
Pros
- Adjustable aperture
- 20MP stills in Raw DNG or JPG
- Subject tracking and cinematic flight modes
- Up to 5.4K video and Raw Photos
- Automated camera moves and Hyperlapse
Cons
- The color video profile isn’t configurable
- Doesn’t support autonomous navigation around obstructions
- 8-bit flat video profile
- Log Color only available in Auto
12. DJI Avata
Source: DJI
Compact and lightweight, DJI Avata is nimble in tight spaces. Every aspect of its design was made for you to be bold. The built-in propeller guard means that if Avata comes in contact with an object, it can bounce back, stay in the air, and keep on flying.
The DJI Avata is agile in confined spaces and is small and light. Its entire design was intended to encourage you to take risks. Because of the integrated propeller guard, the Avata mini drone can bounce back if it collides with something, remains airborne, and continues to fly.
Features and Specifications of DJI Avata
- HD Low-Latency Transmission
- Palm-Sized and Agile
- 1/1.7-inch Sensor
- 4K/60fps Video
- Flight time of up to 18 minutes
- D-Cinelike Color Mode
- 10 km Max Video Transmission Range
Pros and Cons of DJI Avata
Pros
- The one-handed controller works well
- Good battery life for an FPV drone
- Fantastic video quality
- Sharp FPV goggles with diopter adjustment
- Wide-angle lens and 4K60 video convey the sense of motion
Cons
- Slow to react to shifts in white balance
- Less versatile than a standard camera drone
- Manual flight requires an additional controller
- Expensive
In the next section, we will compare all the important features of all drones.
Mini Drones Comparison Table
Here you can find a detailed comparison drawn among all the categories of mini-drones to evaluate their performance and features.
| Model | Camera | Range | Flight Time | Best For | Weight |
| DJI Mini 4 Pro | 4K 48MP | 18 km | 45 min | Professional photography | < 249 g |
| DJI Mini 2 SE | 2.7K, 12 MP | 15 km | 31 min | Hobby/Recreational | 246 g |
| DJI Mini 3 Pro | 4K | 12 km | 34 min | Hobby/Recreational | < 250 g |
| Hoverair X1 | 2.7K | 30 m | 35 min | Hobby/Recreational | 125 g |
| DJI Air 3 | 4K, 48 MP | 32 km | 42 min | Professional | 720 g |
| Exo Mini Pro+ | 4K, 48 MP | 9.9 km | 40 min | Professional | 249 g |
| iFlight Bumblebee HD V3 BNF | Caddx Polar Vista Digital HD System | 4 km | 6 min | FPV Racing/Freestyle | 355.6 g without battery |
| Parrot Anafi Ai | 4K, 32MP | 4 km | 32 min | Professional | 320 g |
| DJI Air 2S | 5.4K, 20MP | 12 km | 31 min | Professional | 595 g |
| DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced | 4K, 20MP | 8 km | 31 min | Commercial/Enterprise | 899 g |
| Autel Evo II Pro | 6K | 9 km | 40 min | Professional/Enterprise | 1192 g |
| DJI Avata | 8K, 20MP | 20 km | 40 min | Industrial/Professional | 410 g |
Conclusion
Mini drones are becoming popular due to their ability to provide stunning aerial images and video footage, which otherwise wouldn’t be possible. With all the cool tech advancements, it’s no wonder people are buzzing about owning one of these tiny flying machines.
But before you jump in and buy a mini drone, consider size, weight, how long it can fly, battery life, camera quality, and how far it can go. These all play a big role.
And don’t forget to register with the FAA if your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams).
So, what are your thoughts on mini drones? We’d love to hear your experiences or questions in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can mini drones be used for professional purposes?
Yes, mini drones are small in size but can be used for professional use. Even drones like the DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced, are designed for professional aerial photography and videography missions. They come with specialized features, precise positioning, and high-resolution cameras.
2. Why are mini drones considered suitable for beginners?
Generally, mini drones are more affordable, portable, and easy to control, making them an ideal choice for beginners. Some of the mini drones for beginners and new pilots include DJI Mini 3 Pro and DJI Mini 2 SE. However, all mini drones are not designed for learners, so it is recommended to choose your mini drone based on your needs.
3. How long can you fly a mini drone?
Flying time refers to how long a drone can stay in the air on a single battery charge, influencing the duration of your flying sessions. Every mini-drone has a different flying time. The drone manufacturer usually specifies the flying time ranging from a few minutes to around 30 minutes for more advanced models.
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