10 Long Range Drones with Night Vision [2024]

Ever dreamed of exploring the world from a bird’s-eye view? Long range drones can make that dream a reality for your business.

The long range drones are not just backyard hobby drones or heart-pounding FPV racing drones. These drones dive into the world of serious commercial drones built for real-world tasks.

These drones are the workhorses of the sky. They can map vast landscapes, capture stunning high-quality images over expansive areas, and do the job efficiently and effectively.

So, buckle up for a journey into the world of drones that mean business!

First things first, long-range drones can be neatly divided into two main categories: Fixed-wing Drones and Multicopter Drones. 

It’s like choosing between a sleek sports car and a reliable SUV – each has its own unique perks.

Which Drone is a Long Range Drone? 

DJI M30T

A long-range drone is a real-life workhorse. These impressive flying machines are designed to take on missions requiring them to go the extra mile.

Typically, long range drones boast the capability to gracefully glide through the skies over distances ranging from 5 to 15 kilometers. This makes them the go-to choice for a diverse range of applications.

Imagine a filmmaker who needs a long flight time to capture that perfect cinematic shot, without having to land and swap batteries constantly—or railway inspectors who need to check long stretches of track.

For these situations, long-range drones are the ideal solution. They can fly for extended periods and cover large areas efficiently.

Among these flying marvels, fixed-wing drones take the lead. They can effortlessly fly much farther than their multirotor or quadcopter counterparts. This makes fixed wing drones indispensable tools for professionals who need to conquer vast distances.

While multirotors and quadcopters can also fly long distances, their flight times are inherently shorter compared to fixed-wing drones.

Fixed Wings Long Range Drones

eBee X

Fixed wing drones are the marathon runners of the drone world. They offer extended flight time, ensuring that you can capture breathtaking views without your drone tapping out too soon. However, they might not win any prizes for payload flexibility. 

But hey, it’s all about choices, right?

Multirotor Long Range Drones

DJI M30T

While quadcopters and multirotors can cover impressive distances, they fall short compared to fixed-wing models. These nimble and versatile aerial machines rely on their rotor-based propulsion, which sacrifices long-range capabilities for other advantages.

The best long-range quadcopters are equipped for impressive journeys. They have a high thrust-to-weight ratio, meaning they’re powerful enough to handle longer distances with ease.

Many opt for the dual-battery setup to keep them aloft longer, and their secret weapon is the cutting-edge Occusync 3, an exceptional long-range video transmission system that keeps the pilot well-connected to the drone, no matter how far it roams in the skies.

Fixed-wing drones offer a clear advantage in flight time, but multirotors are no slouches when it comes to covering long distances.

For the multicopter enthusiasts, DJI takes the crown with the M30T, followed by the Mavic 3 Pro and the Mavic Air 3. With their impeccable flying abilities, these drones are your golden ticket to capturing stunning vistas from above.

How To Choose a Long Range Drone?

Now, let’s dive into what you should consider when picking the best long-range drone.

Taking your drone on an epic flight is amazing, but what if you’re in the zone, capturing incredible footage, and then… the video feed suddenly cuts out? Not cool, right?

So, to avoid such frustrations you must keep an eye on these key factors:

• First, think about video transmission distance and live feed quality. You want a drone that can stream clear, uninterrupted footage so you never miss a moment of your adventure.
• Battery life is another crucial factor. There’s nothing worse than your drone running out of power just as you reach that perfect vista.
• If staying connected is important to you, consider a drone that can operate on LTE or cellular networks for extended flights.

Top 10 Long Range Drones

As mentioned earlier, we will categorize long-range drones into two distinct groups:

A) Fixed Wing Drones Category

B) Multirotor Drones Category

However, here is the list of all 10 long range drones:

1. Wingtra One Gen II
2. Trinity F90+
3. Sensefly eBee X
4. Autel Dragonfish Pro
5. DJI Matrix 350
6. Parrot Anafi Ai
7. Mavic 3 Enterprise 
8. M30T
9. Skydio X10
10. Mini 4 Pro

Let’s first cover the fixed wing long range drones.

A) Fixed Wing Long Range Drones 

These fixed wing long range drones offer remarkable capabilities for extended flights and are well-suited for various mapping, surveying, and aerial tasks:

1. Wingtra One Gen II
2. Trinity F90+
3. Sensefly eBee X
4. Autel Dragonfish Pro

1. Wingtra One Gen II

Source: Wingtra

Our first highlight in the world of aerial technology is the Wingtra One Gen II, which has received approval from the NDAA.

For those engaged in the field of cartography, this drone is an absolute game-changer. It comes equipped with a full-frame camera and features the cutting-edge Wingtra Hub software.

You might be wondering, what’s the big deal here?

Well, this software empowers drone operators to meticulously geo-tag their photographs with exceptional precision through the utilization of PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) positioning.

Combined with Pix4D React software, this aerial marvel transforms into the Usain Bolt of drones. The outcome? Swift generation of geo-referenced orthomosaics, making the mapping process smoother than ever before.

But there’s even more to this remarkable drone. It comes with a variety of payload options to meet your specific cartographic requirements, ranging from multispectral sensors to the latest addition, the lidar system.

However, we recommend avoiding the oblique camera – it’s akin to putting a fancy hat on a tuxedo-clad penguin.

Now, let’s delve into the technical specifications.

Features of Wingtra One Gen II

2. Trinity F90+

Source: Quantum Systems

If we were to liken this drone to an athlete, it would be enjoying its victory smoothie while others are still lacing up their shoes. It’s the drone equivalent of the ever-energetic Energizer Bunny.

However, the F90+ doesn’t just excel in endurance; it also offers an impressive 15-kilometer range, perfect for those who prefer expansive horizons.

When it comes to covering vast areas, the Trinity F90+ outperforms traditional multicopters and other fixed-wing drones. Its significantly extended flight time allows it to map areas up to 20 times larger, making it the preferred choice for those tasked with surveying extensive landscapes.

Boasting a flight time exceeding 90 minutes and an extensive range of payload options, the Trinity F90+ stands out among its peers. It comes equipped with PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) technology, supported by the Quantum-System iBase Ground Reference Station powered by u-blox, ensuring precision in every mission.

But that’s not all – this drone offers both RGB and multispectral dual payload options, ensuring adaptability to various surveying and mapping requirements.

The Trinity F90+ is equipped with powerful motors, ensuring top-tier performance in all conditions, allowing you to conquer even the most challenging scenarios with ease.

With features like Live Air Traffic (ADS-B) and QBase Mission Planning, you have complete control over your flights, ensuring both safety and efficiency. Its 2.4 GHz telemetry extends up to 7.5 kilometers, ensuring a constant connection with your drone. Additionally, the optional ADS-B Mode-S out enhances situational awareness and safety.

For those engaged in mapping and surveying expansive landscapes, the Trinity F90+ is your secret weapon. Its exceptional flight time and robust capabilities make it the preferred choice for discerning commercial clients who demand precision, endurance, and reliability.

Whether you’re mapping extensive farmlands or miles of terrain, the Trinity F90+ is your trusted companion in the skies.

Features of Trinity F90+

3. SenseFly eBee X

Source: Ageagle

Before the Wingtra took center stage, the eBee X held the title of mapping world’s favorite. It remains a formidable contender, showcasing an impressive 90-minute flight duration that rivals its younger counterparts.

The Sensefly eBee X, which has received NDAA approval, is undeniably one of the most sought-after fixed-wing drones on the market. It has firmly established itself as a workhorse for agricultural mapping.

However, here’s the catch – it’s not exactly the belle of the ball when it comes to takeoff and landing. The eBee X can be a bit cumbersome, demanding skilled piloting and ample landing space.

Nonetheless, its popularity speaks volumes.

Featuring a selection of six different payloads, this drone simplifies agricultural mapping tasks. The SenseFly eBee X is well-prepared to meet the precise requirements of any project. Its remarkable Endurance Extension pushes the boundaries, offering an astonishing maximum flight time of 90 minutes, enabling coverage of extensive areas of up to 1,235 acres at an altitude of 400 feet AGL.

With a range of 10 kilometers, the eBee X is akin to a seasoned road-tripper who knows all the shortcuts in the drone world.

Furthermore, the additional RTK activation ensures pinpoint accuracy down to 3 centimeters (1.2 inches), all without the need for Ground Control Points.

While it may not win any elegance contests in the air, it unquestionably delivers on precision and reliability.

Features of SenseFly eBee X

4. Autel Dragonfish Pro

Source: Drone Nerd

Now, let’s shift our focus to the Autel Dragonfish Pro, an undisputed champion among fixed-wing drones.

This drone has the potential to redefine our concept of “flight time.” With an astonishing 158 minutes in the air, it’s like having an indefatigable drone butler at your service.

It’s not just about the extended flight time, though; the Dragonfish Pro also boasts an impressive 15-kilometer range, ensuring you can effortlessly cover vast areas.

However, what truly distinguishes the Dragonfish Pro is its exceptional vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) performance. While other drones, such as the Wingtra, are limited to autonomous missions, the Dragonfish Pro offers the flexibility of manual flight, much like a traditional drone. This outstanding capability sets it head and shoulders above the competition.

The Dragonfish’s innovative tilt-rotor design simplifies operation while optimizing performance and efficiency. With no intricate moving components to fret over, this drone is modular, waterproof, intelligent, and exceptionally reliable.

Straight out of the box, it’s mission-ready and equipped with potent AI tracking capabilities, in addition to a diverse selection of modular payload options, enabling seamless adaptation to various tasks.

With an impressive endurance of up to 158 minutes, inclusive of the payload, the Dragonfish Pro establishes a new benchmark for mission capabilities, firmly securing its position as the leader in the realm of fixed-wing drones.

Features of Autel Dragonfish Pro

B) MultiRotor or Quad Copter Long Range Drones

To provide you with a concise overview, here’s a list of MultiRotor Long Range Drones:

1. DJI Matrix 350
2. Parrot Anafi Ai
3. Mavic 3 Enterprise 
4. M30T
5. Skydio X10
6. Mini 4 Pro 

1. DJI M350

Source: DJI

The DJI Matrice 350 is a formidable contender among the best long-range drones, known for its exceptional capabilities and versatility. With a remarkable 55-minute flight time and an impressive 20 km range for video transmission, this drone is a powerful tool for various professional applications.

One of the key strengths of the DJI Matrice 350 lies in its adaptability. It supports a wide range of payloads, making it suitable for diverse tasks. 

Among its payload options is the H20T triple camera, which offers a combination of thermal, zoom, and wide-angle lenses, making it ideal for tasks that require detailed visual and thermal imaging, such as search and rescue missions or environmental monitoring.

For nighttime operations, the DJI Matrice 350 can be equipped with the H20N, which is optimized for low-light conditions and provides superior night vision capabilities. This makes it invaluable for applications like surveillance or nocturnal wildlife monitoring.

The drone also supports a robust LiDAR sensor with the L2, which is essential for tasks like 3D mapping, terrain modeling, and infrastructure inspection. The precision and accuracy of LiDAR data are vital in these scenarios.

For photogrammetry tasks, the DJI Matrice 350 features the P1 camera, which excels in capturing high-resolution images to create detailed, accurate 3D models and maps. However, it’s important to note that this option may have limitations when compared to the flexibility of the H20T and H20N cameras.

In addition to its impressive camera capabilities, the DJI Matrice 350 offers a range of accessories that enhance its utility. These accessories include a speaker, which can be useful for broadcasting audio messages or warnings during missions, and a robust light that can be synchronized with the gimbal’s movements, allowing for precision illumination in various scenarios. Whether you need to light up a car in a dark environment or illuminate a football field for aerial filming, this feature adds an extra layer of functionality to the drone.

Overall, the DJI Matrice 350 stands out as a long-range drone that combines extended flight time, extensive video transmission range, and a versatile selection of payloads and accessories. It’s a reliable choice for professionals who require a drone with the flexibility to adapt to different applications, from aerial surveying and inspection to night operations and beyond.

Features of DJI M350 

2. Parrot Anafi Ai 

Source: Parrot

The Parrot Anafi Ai is a remarkable all-in-one solution designed to cater to the needs of drone pilots, offering an enticing balance between affordability and high-performance capabilities. Priced at $4,000, it becomes an attractive option for budget-conscious drone programs, allowing them to access cutting-edge technology without breaking the bank. 

What sets the Anafi Ai apart is the integration of Pix4D capture directly into the drone’s system, empowering it to capture breathtaking levels of detail for both 2D maps and 3D models. 

An outstanding feature of this drone is its capability to fly on LTE, providing near-unlimited range, although Parrot officially claims an impressive 27km one-way range. 

It’s important to note, however, that the Parrot Anafi Ai does have a limitation when it comes to payload versatility, as it can only support a single payload at a time.

Features of Parrot Anafi Ai 

3. Mavic 3 Enterprise

Source: DJI

The Mavic 3 Enterprise has quickly established itself as the new gold standard in the world of mapping drones, setting a high bar for efficiency and performance. 

With an impressive flight time of approximately 43 minutes, it offers extended airtime for mapping missions, which is crucial for covering larger areas.

What truly sets the Mavic 3 Enterprise apart is its remarkable speed and efficiency in completing mapping tasks. While legacy drones like the Phantom 4 Pro used to take around 20 minutes to create a map, the Mavic 3 Enterprise accomplishes the same task in just 11 minutes, significantly reducing mission duration. 

However, it’s important to note that the Mavic 3 Enterprise does have some limitations in terms of its video features and capabilities. 

Despite this drawback, it shines in its ability to capture intricate and detailed maps, making it a top choice for professionals seeking swift and precise mapping solutions.

Features of Mavic 3 Enterprise

4. DJI M30T

Source: DJI

The DJI M30T stands out as our top choice for inspection drones, combining exceptional payload capabilities with remarkable portability. This compact powerhouse packs a payload punch similar to the Matrice 300 but in a highly portable package, easily fitting into a small carry-on luggage. 

Despite its small size, the M30t delivers impressive flight times and an array of camera options that make it ideal for inspection tasks. The 48MP zoom camera, with its astonishing 200x hybrid zoom capability, provides detailed imagery, while the thermal camera offers a high-quality 640p resolution, enabling simultaneous thermal and zoom or wide-angle imaging.

Notably, the drone boasts self-heating batteries, making it suitable for operation in a wide range of environments, and its swift 30-second setup time ensures it’s ready for flight at a moment’s notice.

Additionally, the M30t features a laser range finder, and innovative companies like Terranis have harnessed its capabilities to create superior 2D maps, further enhancing its appeal for inspection purposes.

Features of DJI M30T

5. Skydio X10

Source: Skydio

The Skydio X10, Skydio’s latest addition to the market in October 2023, showcases an impressive array of features and capabilities that make it a notable player in the drone industry. 

Similar to the M30T, the X10 boasts a versatile triple camera payload, equipping it for a wide range of applications. What truly sets the Skydio drones apart is their unwavering commitment to autonomy and obstacle avoidance. 

The autonomy engine takes precedence over pilot interaction, a critical advantage when navigating complex and obstacle-rich environments, such as powerlines and substations. While the initial cost of the drone may appear reasonable, it’s essential to note that Skydio charges for their software, which can result in a total investment ranging from $30,000 to $50,000. 

This pricing model reflects the premium quality of the software’s capabilities. Moreover, the Skydio X10 offers the ability to fly at night, further expanding its operational window, with an impressive 35-minute flight time. Its camera suite is equally impressive, featuring a 1″ CMOS sensor similar to the Phantom 4 Pro, but with an astounding 50MP resolution. 

Additionally, it includes a zoom camera and a large-format thermal sensor, making it a well-rounded and formidable tool for various professional applications.

Features of Skydio X10

6. Mini 4 Pro

Source: DJI

The Mini 4 Pro, DJI’s latest micro drone, brings a world of possibilities to the fingertips of drone enthusiasts. Weighing in at less than 250 grams, this sub-250-gram marvel offers unparalleled freedom to explore the skies and capture breathtaking aerial footage in locations previously restricted by size and weight restrictions. 

Particularly excelling as a “social media” drone, the Mini 4 Pro is capable of capturing stunning portrait-style videos, making it a top choice for those looking to create eye-catching content for sharing online. Its ultra-compact design allows it to slip into a small purse, ensuring it’s as portable as a drone can get. 

The Mini 4 Pro extends the boundaries of micro-drones with its impressive 34-minute flight time and a remarkable 15-kilometer range, truly earning its place among the long-range drones. Despite being about the size of three iPhones, this tiny powerhouse packs an impressive punch, making it the perfect companion for capturing the world from a unique and captivating perspective.

Features of Mini 4 Pro

When it comes to fixed wing drones, there’s a wealth of choices for various mission requirements, but let’s break down the top contenders.

Wingtra Gen 2: It takes the lead with its impressive camera payload and integrated PPK GPS, delivering rapid orthomosaics like a speed demon. Plus, its NDAA approval adds a layer of trust for domestic users.

Autel Dragonfish Pro: It excels with its unmatched flight time and versatility in payload options, although it comes from a Chinese manufacturer.

Trinity F90: This drone is all about flexibility. It features easily swapped payloads and is NDAA-compliant with remote ID approval.

Ebee X: A champion for mapping with long flight time and NDAA approval. However, the payload is mounted underneath, making it vulnerable, and landings are crash-rated, so be extra careful.

If you’re on a budget and prioritize mapping missions, the Wingtra Gen 2 is your go-to. Keep in mind that these high-performing fixed wing drones often come with a hefty price tag, so prospective pilots should carefully weigh their deliverables and goals before making their choice, ensuring they soar with the right drone to meet their mission objectives.

Here are some great multicopter choices:

If you are a thrill-seeker and explorer then the Parrot Anafi AI is your best bet for the money.

If you want an American-made drone then you can go with the Skydio X10 but will rack up a price point of almost 10x what the Parrot will cost.

Not only can both drones take you on a long-range journey, but it’s also able to fly on cellular service.

This guide has covered the best long range drones in both fixed-wing and multicopter categories. With these options in mind, you can choose the perfect partner for your next aerial adventure

So, there you have it – the best long range drones, neatly divided into their respective categories. Now, all that’s left is for you to choose the perfect partner for your next high-flying adventure. Whether you’re mapping, exploring, or just indulging in the pure joy of flight, these drones will take you to new heights. oning, fellow sky explorers!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I consider when choosing a long-range drone for my specific needs?

When selecting a long-range drone, factors to consider include video transmission distance and live feed quality, battery power and endurance, and the drone’s ability to operate on LTE or cellular networks, especially if you require connectivity over long distances.

2. How do fixed wing drones differ from multirotor drones in terms of long-range capabilities?

Fixed wing drones excel in long range missions due to their efficient aerodynamics, offering extended flight times and coverage capabilities. Multirotor drones, while capable of flying long distances, generally have limitations in comparison to their fixed wing counterparts.

3. What makes the Wingtra One Gen II stand out among fixed-wing drones?

The Wingtra One Gen II is known for its NDAA approval and exceptional cartography capabilities. It offers precise geo-tagging through PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) positioning, making it an outstanding choice for mapping tasks.

4. What are the best long range drones in the multirotor category?

In the multirotor category, the DJI Matrice 350 is a strong contender, known for its 55-minute flight time and a video transmission range of up to 20 kilometers. It stands out for its adaptability, supporting a wide range of payloads, including thermal imaging, zoom, and wide-angle cameras, as well as LiDAR sensors. This makes it suitable for various professional applications.