Which are the top drone companies in 2025, and how are the manufacturers of drones shaping the UAV landscape?
As drone technology continues to evolve, we are seeing a rapid pace of innovation across the board. From drone manufacturers to software developers and drone service providers, a lot is going on.
However, with numerous players in the field, it can be challenging to identify the innovators and key players behind the most advanced drone solutions.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the best drone companies that are expected to dominate the market in 2025 and beyond.
Evaluation Methodology
When we sat down to research and evaluate the top drone companies, we looked at several factors, such as market share, the pace of innovation, technology, product offerings, and so on. Then we evaluated each company based on these parameters to come up with the top 28 list.
We primarily included drone manufacturers and drone software developers in this mix because these two areas play a big role in taking the drone industry forward.
First, let’s take a closer look at the factors we have considered in evaluating top drone companies.
Factors Used in Evaluating the Top Drone Companies
1. Market Share
Market share is a crucial metric for investors and consumers alike. The best drone companies demonstrate higher market share and remain at the forefront of innovation. For instance, DJI, the Chinese tech giant, is currently the top drone manufacturer with a staggering 74.3% market share, followed by Parrot, Autel Robotics, and Ehang.
2. Product Offering
Diversity in product offerings is what we mean here. The top drone companies offer a wide range of drones. Some examples include aerial photography, delivery, drone mapping, public safety agency work, and aerial surveying.
Some companies also manufacture key components for drones. These include airframes, motors, sensors, cameras, and batteries.
Our research also found manufacturers focused on specific domains or operations such as agriculture or surveying. Many others tend to offer a lot more versatility with a variety of applications and usage. The best example is DJI which brings a lot of diversity to its product offerings.
3. Technology
The top drone manufacturers invest heavily in research and development. They are at the forefront of drone innovation using cutting-edge technology. This includes GPS, obstacle avoidance systems, and advanced imaging systems. These companies also create software that supports a variety of use cases.
4. Customer Support
Outstanding customer support is a distinguishing characteristic of a great company. The principle also applies to the best drone brands.
The best drone companies understand the importance of offering technical support, training, and maintenance services. For this reason, they prioritize providing top-notch customer support to meet the needs and expectations of their consumers.
5. Hardware
Top drone industries produce high-quality hardware known for its reliability and efficiency. They use premium materials to ensure durability against harsh weather conditions, rough handling, and prolonged flights. They focus on creating user-friendly drones that are easy to assemble, and dismantle, with excellent transportation capabilities. This is an area where a lot of American-made drones shine.
6. Security
Security is a top priority for leading drone companies including both the drones and the data they handle. Companies implement advanced encryption technology to safeguard drones against hacking and unauthorized access. Some drone companies even develop software to help users regulate access to their drones. This software also allows users to manage data collection, while providing additional security.
7. Upgradeability
Upgradeability plays a crucial role in maximizing the return on investment. This includes offering firmware updates and hardware upgrades to improve the performance and capabilities of the drones. Many manufacturers provide flexibility, allowing drone users to customize drones for their specific needs and applications.
8. Variety of Missions
Versatility and adaptability are key characteristics we consider when evaluating drone manufacturers. The drone design must be capable of seamlessly navigating different environments and adapting to different situations. Accessories and add-ons allow drone pilots to customize their drones to the specific requirements of each mission.
9. Platforms
Prominent drone companies offer user-friendly platforms for the smooth control and management of drones. The software is designed to be simple to operate, making it easy for pilots to control the drones. It also helps collect valuable data. Mobile apps let clients easily monitor drones from remote locations.
10. Modularity
The best drone manufacturers create modular drones, allowing operators to easily change parts and add accessories. This makes it easy to upgrade the drone or customize it for specific missions.
11. Accuracy
Top drone manufacturing companies focus on accuracy as a crucial aspect. Advanced imaging systems and sensors are used to collect data with high precision. The accompanying software allows consumers to analyze and interpret the data collected by drones accurately.
12. Cost of Drone
Top drone brands aim to offer value for money in their product offerings. They ensure competitive pricing while maintaining high-quality standards and optimal performance. Some drone companies provide financing options and leasing programs to make drones more accessible to a wider audience.
With this understanding, let’s dive into the top drone companies in 2025. We’ll examine each drone company, its product offerings, and key specialties.
The Top 28 Drone Companies in 2025
Here are the best drone companies to watch out for in 2025. In this list, we have categorized the drone companies into two major segments:
A. Drone Hardware Companies
B. Drone Software Companies
Let’s get familiar with the drone hardware companies first.
A. Drone Hardware Companies
The drone hardware industry consists of companies that produce, distribute, and create tangible parts for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Here are some popular drone hardware companies:
1. DJI
- Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
- Founders: Frank Wang
- Founded in: 2006
- Categories: Consumer, Agriculture, Enterprise, Video Production, Public Safety
- Website: https://www.dji.com/global
DJI is the world’s largest drone manufacturer commanding a market share of over 70% worldwide. The company offers a wide range of drones for both professional and consumer use. It is well-known for its high-quality products, advanced features, and excellent customer service.
M30T | Credit: DJI
DJI’s drones are equipped with advanced features such as obstacle avoidance, 4K cameras, and GPS. The company also offers a range of accessories and add-ons to enhance the performance of its drones.
DJI is best known for its Mavic series, including the M30T, and Mini 2, These drones are popular among new and intermediate pilots, as well as videographers.
DJI’s impact on the drone industry has been significant, leading the way with its unique and groundbreaking solutions. They have revolutionized the construction industry, saved lives with emergency medical deliveries, and captured stunning aerial footage for movies and commercials.
2. Orqa International
- Headquarters: Osijek, Croatia
- Founders: Srdjan, Vlatko and Ivan
- Founded in: 2018
- Category: FPV, Industrial, Enterprise
- Website: https://orqafpv.com/about
Orqa FPV, proudly headquartered in Osijek, Croatia, has established itself as the top drone manufacturer with a history of innovation.
As UAS restrictions against Chinese technologies expand, they have emerged as a leading supplier of mission-critical components for Blue UAS companies.
Orqa first unveiled its flagship FPV goggles prototype at CES in Las Vegas in January 2019. This move positioned the company as a competitor in the FPV racing market. Beyond its initial focus, Orqa has significantly expanded its product lineup and market influence following a merger with Immersion RC.
The company has become the leading manufacturer in the education sector with its product design for Drone Soccer. This rapidly growing career readiness program has gained popularity in high school and collegiate programs worldwide.
Available in the United States, the Drone Soccer Academy showcases Orqa’s commitment to fostering new and engaging ways to experience drone technology.
Orqa is dedicated to in-house full-stack engineering and manufacturing. They focus on electronics, optics, radio systems, and cameras. This commitment highlights their emphasis on quality and innovation.
Positioned to fill the gap for government and enterprise platforms, Orqa has established itself as a versatile and forward-thinking player in the global drone industry.
3. AeroVironment
- Headquarters: Simi Valley, California, United States
- Founders: Dr. Paul MacCready Jr.
- Founded in: 1971
- Category: Defense, Public Safety
- Website: https://www.avinc.com/
AeroVironment Inc. is a California-based technology solutions company that has been developing and manufacturing drones for over four decades.
Puma 3 AE | Credit: Business Wire
Its key products include the Switchblade Series, Puma 3AE, Raven, and Wasp drones, designed for tactical operations. These drones are primarily used in military, defense, public safety, and commercial industries.
What makes AeroVironment stand out is its reputation for innovation and the numerous awards it has received for its technology solutions. AeroVironment has also established notable partnerships and collaborations in the drone industry. The company supplies its drones to the U.S. Army, supporting military operations with advanced unmanned systems. It has also expanded its presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
AeroVironment develops advanced drones and other technologies, positioning itself as a leading drone technology solution company in 2025.
4. PowerVision
- Headquarters: Beijing, China
- Founders: Wally Zheng
- Founded in: 2009
- Category: Aerial, Water-surface, & Underwater Robotic Devices
- Website: https://www.powervision.me/en/
PowerVision has been at the forefront of cutting-edge research, development, and design. The company has continuously pushed the boundaries of technology, revolutionizing industry research and development.
Power Ray Drone | Credit: PowerVision
Currently, PowerVision stands out as the only company in the world that manufactures aerial, water-surface, and underwater robotic devices. It has also achieved mass production of underwater AI robotic devices, establishing itself as a unique player in the robotics industry.
PowerVision primarily focuses on research, development, and manufacturing. It specializes in industrial UAVs, consumer UAVs, and robotic devices for both water-surface and underwater operations. PowerVision also provides sales and after-sales services for these products.
Its commitment to independent innovation has led to the creation of several groundbreaking products. These include:
- PowerEgg- The first egg-shaped drone
- PowerRay- the underwater drone
- PowerDolphin- the water-surface drone
- PowerSeeker – an intelligent fish-finding drone
- PowerEgg X- the world’s first full-platform AI camera
These products highlight PowerVision’s focus on developing cutting-edge technology across various fields, such as robotics, drones, and AI applications.
5. Parrot
- Headquarters: Paris, France
- Founders: Henri Seydoux
- Founded in: 1994
- Category: Professional, Enterprise
- Website: https://www.parrot.com/us/
Parrot is a well-known French drone company that has established itself as a significant player in the drone industry. Parrot provides a wide range of drones for various applications, including aerial photography, videography, racing, agriculture, construction, and public safety.
Parrot Anafi Ai
The company’s notable products include ANAFI USA, ANAFI Thermal, and ANAFI Ai, which are known for their portability, advanced features, and affordability.
Parrot is committed to innovation and user-friendly drone technology, with a focus on developing new products and expanding its market reach. This company has the largest partner ecosystem for professional drones, from enterprise drone platforms to public safety programs.
With its strong presence in the European market and recognition for its advanced technologies, Parrot plans to remain a leading player in consumer drone innovation and cybersecurity.
6. Autel Robotics
- Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
- Founders: Li Hongjing
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: Commercial and Consumer
- Website: https://www.autelrobotics.com/
Autel Robotics is a leading drone company known for producing high-quality drones catering to both consumers and professionals. The company offers a range of drones equipped with advanced features such as obstacle avoidance, 360-degree cameras, and intuitive flight controls. Some of their popular drones include the X-Star Premium, Evo Nano+, and Evo Lite+.
The Evo Nano+ is a lightweight drone that doesn’t require registration with the FAA and features three-way obstacle detection for safer flight, while the Evo Lite+ uses a Type 1 sensor camera for competitive picture quality.
Autel Robotics’ drones are popular among photographers and videographers due to their stabilized cameras that record 4K30 video and snap sharp photos at up to 50MP.
The company’s products are known for long battery life, with the Evo Lite+ offering a flight time of around 40 minutes on a full battery.
Autel Robotics stands out for its unique features and advantages. With its strong commitment to innovation and quality, the company continues to be an important player in the drone industry.
7. Skydio
- Headquarters: Redwood City, California
- Founders: Adam Bry, Abe Bachrach, and Matt Donahoe
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: Public Safety, Defense, Enterprise, Cinematic Creators
- Website: https://www.skydio.com/
Skydio’s innovation in the drone world, specifically with autonomous flight missions, has created a lot of buzz. High-speed manual flight and obstacle avoidance capabilities have made Skydio drones popular in the sports and entertainment industries.
Skydio 2+
The company manufactures intelligent drones powered by machine learning for consumer, enterprise, and government customers.
Their flagship products are the Skydio 2+, and Skydio X2, designed for commercial and superior video purposes, respectively.
Another innovative solution by this company includes Skydio Dock. The Skydio Dock combines with Skydio drones, allowing remote operations for emergency response and critical infrastructure monitoring.
Skydio’s products have also set a new standard for supply chain and manufacturing security by designing, assembling, and providing support for all its products in the USA.
8. Delair
- Headquarters: Toulouse, France
- Founders: Michaël de Lagarde, Benjamin Benharrosh, Benjamin Michel, and Bastien Mancini
- Founded in: 2011
- Category: Commercial, Military, and Security
- Website: https://delair.aero/
Delair is one of the top drone manufacturing companies in the world, providing innovative drone technology and services for commercial and industrial use.
DT26 | Credit: Delair
Delair has been at the forefront of drone technology since its establishment in 2011. The company offers a wide range of advanced drones for surveying, inspection, and security applications, like the UX11, DT26X LiDAR, and DT46.
Delair specializes in fixed-wing UAVs and drone software analytics. Using these valuable data, the company serves different industries, including oil and gas, transportation, agriculture, and emergency services.
The company’s competitive advantage lies in long-range drones. These drones can fly for several hours, covering large areas. Some models are equipped with thermal imaging sensors and other advanced payloads for inspection and surveillance applications.
9. Ehang
- Headquarters: Guangzhou, China
- Founders: Huazhi Hu, Yifang (Derrick) Xiong
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: AAV products, Commercial solutions
- Website: https://www.ehang.com/
Ehang is one of the leading companies in the development of autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs). With its strong track record of innovation, the company is well-positioned as a major player in the urban air mobility market.
EHang 216L | Credit: EHang
EHang’s AAVs are designed to be safe, easy to operate, and environment friendly. The company’s flagship product is the EHang 184, which is a passenger-grade AAV that can carry up to two people. The EHang’s EH216 has been certified by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) and is currently in commercial operation in China.
EHang is also developing many other AAVs, including the EH216, which is a larger AAV that can carry up to six people, and the EHang 216L cargo drone that can carry up to 200 kg of payload.
EHang’s AAVs are used for a variety of purposes, including passenger transportation, logistics, and aerial photography. The company is also working on developing AAVs for emergency response and medical delivery applications.
10. Freefly
- Headquarters: Woodinville, Washington, USA
- Founders: Tabb Firchau, David Bloomfield, Hugh Bell
- Founded: 2011
- Category: Cinematography, Film Industry
- Website: https://freeflysystems.com/
Freefly Systems is a leading American drone manufacturer. It is known for its high-quality aerial platforms, including camera movement systems, unique camera drones, and camera stabilizers for cinematography. The Freefly products are used by professional filmmakers and videographers all over the world to create stunning, smooth, and mesmerizing shots.
Alta X | Credit: Freefly
Freefly Systems’ products are known for their high quality, innovative design, and ease of use.
Movi Carbon stands as a pioneering 5-axis camera stabilizer that sets itself apart as a handheld and drone-mountable stabilizer.
Movi Carbon features two high-bandwidth inner axes, known for its smooth, fluid movements and its ability to withstand even the most demanding shooting conditions. This means you can effortlessly capture smooth shots, even when using the full 240mm zoom.
Other popular Freefly Systems products include the Alta X drone, the Wave high-speed camera, and the SL Series batteries.
Freefly Systems is a rapidly growing drone company and is constantly innovating new products and technologies. The company is committed to providing filmmakers with reliable and adaptable drone systems.
11. Flyability
- Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland
- Founders: Patrick Thévoz and Adrien Briod
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: Indoor Inspection
- Website: https://www.flyability.com/
Flyability is a Swiss drone company that specializes in collision-resistant drones for indoor inspection and exploration.
Elios 2
Flyability’s drone is enclosed in a protective cage that enables it to remain stable when bumping into obstacles. This makes the drone ideal for inspections and surveys in remote and hard-to-reach areas such as underground mines, nuclear power plants, and oil rigs.
The company provides various solutions to different sectors, such as power generation, oil and gas, mining, and infrastructure, among others. The company is looking to expand its services in Latin America by partnering with local companies to meet growing customer demands.
Flyability’s unique selling points include the drones being inexpensive, easy to fly, programmable via Scratch, Bluetooth remote control compatibility, and automated flight modes.
The company’s potential impact on the drone industry is enormous. Their collision-resistant drones solve some of the significant challenges in industries such as energy, mining, and construction.
12. Insitu
- Headquarters: Bingen, Washington
- Founders: Tad McGeer and Matthew Finnie
- Founded in: 1994
- Category: Defense and Government
- Website: https://www.insitu.com/
Insitu is a prominent drone company that has been making waves in the industry with its innovative drone solutions. The company’s main focus is on providing unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for military and commercial applications.
ScanEagle | Credit: Insitu
Insitu’s drones are designed to provide real-time data and intelligence, making them ideal for applications such as search and rescue, surveillance, and environmental monitoring.
Insitu’s drone products and services are solving some of the most pressing problems in the drone industry.
For example, the ScanEagle, a flagship drone product that is designed for military applications and Integrator drones, is a versatile modular drone that can be customized to meet the needs of the drone user.
Insitu has established a partnership with Pacific Aerospace, a leading aerospace company in New Zealand, to provide drone solutions for the Asia-Pacific region.
Insitu has the potential for continued growth in the coming years. Its innovative drone solutions and partnerships make it one of the top drone companies to watch in 2025 and beyond.
13. Wingtra
- Headquarters: Zurich, Switzerland
- Founders: Basil Weibel, Maximilian Boosfeld, Elias Kleimann
- Founded in: 2016
- Categories: Surveying, GIS, Mining, Construction, Agriculture, Environmental Monitoring
- Website: https://wingtra.com/
Wingtra is a Swiss company that manufactures heavy-lift drones for industrial applications. Wingtra drones are capable of carrying up to 60 kg of payload, making them ideal for surveying, mapping, and inspection.
Credit: Wingtra
Wingtra drones are also known for their high-precision aerial surveying capabilities and their long flight times. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors these drones can be used to collect data on a variety of features.
Wingtra drones also have a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, which means the drones can take off and land in tight spaces even without a runway.
Their flagship product, the WIngtraOne Gen II, is famous for its precision and efficiency. Industries like construction, mining, and environmental monitoring actively use these drones for detailed topographic surveys.
The company recently launched a software solution – WingtraCLOUD, designed to simplify drone data planning and collaboration. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, the company aims to promote environmental and humanitarian projects.
14. Airobotics
- Headquarters: Tel Aviv, Israel
- Founders: Meir Kliner
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: Precision Agriculture, Insurance, and Commercial Services
- Website: https://www.airoboticsdrones.com/
Airobotics is a leading drone manufacturer that specializes in fully automated drone systems and solutions. It is renowned for developing government-grade, tier-1 autonomous drone systems and solutions. The company has developed a wide range of advanced drone technologies designed for industrial, commercial, and public safety applications.
Credit: Aerobotics
Airobotics has a portfolio of drones, including the Iron Drone system is an advanced technology used to protect against enemy drones. It is designed to defend important assets in complex environments without causing much damage. The system can automatically intercept and disable small drones without relying on GPS or RF jamming.
Airobotics drones have revolutionized the agriculture industry, allowing farmers to make data-driven decisions around fertilizer application, irrigation, and other farming practices.
The impact of Airobotics drones on the agriculture industry has been significant, resulting in increased efficiency and profitability for farmers.
Airobotics drones are designed to be easy to operate and deploy, even in complex and challenging environments. These drones can be used in many different kinds of applications, including security, inspection, and mapping.
15. JOUAV
- Headquarters: Chengdu, China
- Founders: Ren Bin, Wang Chen, Chen Peng
- Founded in: 2010
- Category: Industrial, Agricultural
- Website: https://www.jouav.com/
JOUAV manufactures high-quality drones, including heavy-lift drones, agricultural drones, and racing drones.
CW-007 | Credit: JOUAV
One of their noteworthy products is the CW series of fixed-wing UAVs. These drones are recognized for their extended flight duration and their ability to carry various types of payloads.
JOUAV drones are equipped with advanced sensors and cameras that provide accurate data and high-resolution images.
These drones are extensively used in industries such as agriculture, construction, and public safety. JOUAV’s commitment to innovation and advanced technology makes it a key player in the global drone market?.
16. Draganfly
- Headquarters: Saskatoon, Canada
- Founders: Zenon Dragan and Christina Dragan
- Founded in: 1998
- Category: Enterprise drone solutions, Custom software, Professional UAV services
- Website: https://draganfly.com/
Draganfly is a pioneering drone company that specializes in the design and development of advanced unmanned aerial systems. This company was the first to use drones for life-saving missions and to develop quadcopter drones.
Draganflyer Commander2 | Credit: Draganfly
The company offers a wide range of drone platforms and technologies that cater to diverse applications, including aerial photography, videography, public safety, industrial inspections, and agricultural surveys.
With a strong focus on high-end engineering, Draganfly has continuously pushed the boundaries of drone technology. The company drones are equipped with state-of-the-art features such as advanced flight control systems, high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging capabilities, and autonomous flight modes. These features enable users to capture high-quality imagery and data for a wide range of professional and commercial purposes.
Draganfly’s commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer satisfaction has garnered recognition and partnerships with numerous organizations across different sectors. As the drone industry continues to evolve, Draganfly remains at the forefront, leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver advanced drone solutions to its clients.
17. Brinc
- Headquarters: Seattle, Washington
- Founders: Blake Resnick
- Founded in: 2017
- Category: Law Enforcement, Public Safety, SWAT
- Website: https://brincdrones.com/
BRINC drones is a rapidly growing startup dedicated to developing technology that enhances public safety. Trusted by over 500 public safety agencies across all 50 states, BRINC’s drones play a critical role in reducing risks and improving outcomes during emergencies.
Credit: Brinc
With an innovative two-way communication system, their drones act as flying phones, enabling negotiators to communicate safely and avoid confrontations. These drones also assist first responders by assessing collision severity, detecting potential hazards like overturned vehicles, and identifying risks such as fuel leaks. BRINC Drones provides public safety professionals with tools that prioritize safety and efficiency in high-stakes situations.
18. Guardian
- Headquarters: Woburn, Massachusetts
- Founders: Adam Bercu
- Founded in: 2017
- Category: eVTOL, Logistics, Robotics, and Crop Protection
- Website: https://guardian.ag
Guardian Agriculture develops FAA-approved automated eVTOL systems to revolutionize sustainable farming on a commercial scale. Their mission is to empower farmers with precise, safe, and efficient aerial application, helping them optimize chemical use and increase yields while reducing environmental impact.
SC1 Drone | Credit: Guardian
The Guardian SC1, proudly designed and built in the USA, is engineered specifically for farming. It’s a professional-grade machine crafted from high-performance carbon fiber and aerospace-grade aluminum, offering durability and long-term value. With lower pesticide use, reduced costs, and a smaller environmental footprint, the SC1 sets a new standard for advanced agricultural technology.
Let’s uncover the best software companies in the next part.
B. Drone Software Companies
The businesses that focus on developing software technology and systems that control, manage, and enhance the functionality of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones are defined as drone hardware companies.
The following are the best drone software companies:
1. AgEagle Aerial Sys
- Headquarters: Wichita, Kansas, USA
- Founders: Bret Chilcott
- Founded in: 2012
- Category: Energy, Construction, Agriculture, and Public Safety
- Website: https://www.ageagle.com//
AgEagle Aerial Sys is a globally recognized UAV industry pioneer that offers a unified line of high-performance flight hardware, sensors, and software.
eBee TAC | Credit: AgEagle
AgEagle drones are equipped with advanced imaging systems, ensuring high accuracy in data capture. They also offer real-time data processing capabilities. These features make AgEagle drones highly effective for precision agriculture and crop management tasks.
These drones serve a wide range of industries, including agriculture, environmental conservation, and sustainability.
AgEagle Aerial Systems has formed notable partnerships and collaborations to strengthen its position in the drone industry. One notable collaboration is with Agribotix, focusing on precision agriculture through advanced drone technology. This partnership aims to provide valuable aerial imagery and data analytics for improved crop management.
Additionally, AgEagle has worked with the Kansas Department of Transportation to deploy drone solutions for infrastructure inspections and other transportation-related applications.
2. Trimble
- Headquarters: Westminster, Colorado, U.S.
- Founders: Charlie Trimble
- Founded in: 1978
- Category: Agriculture, Construction, Government, Transportation
- Website: https://www.trimble.com/en
Trimble is a company that focuses on industrial technology. Their goal is to help improve how things work in the world.
Credit: Trimble
Trimble’s drones are widely used for capturing geospatial data and supporting applications such as reality capture, asset management, and monitoring.
Trimble’s partnerships, such as the one with DroneDeploy, focus on boosting the accuracy of drone positioning systems. These collaborations aim to streamline workflows, which is particularly important for projects that demand precise data collection and analysis.
The company integrates its drone technology with robust data analysis platforms, which enhance the operational efficiency of industries like construction, agriculture, and infrastructure.
3. Bentley Systems
- Headquarters: Exton, Pennsylvania
- Founders: Keith Bentley and Barry Bentley
- Founded in: 1984
- Category: Infrastructure Software
- Website: https://www.bentley.com/
Bentley Systems is a prominent company specializing in software solutions that integrate with drone technology for various applications. This company caters to customers in the fields of infrastructure design, construction, and urban planning. Bentley Systems has emerged as a global leader in providing innovative technologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of infrastructure projects.
Bentley Pointools | Credit: Bentley Systems
Bentley Systems offers a comprehensive suite of software products that cater to the needs of various industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, and operations. The company’s software solutions enable professionals to design, analyze, visualize, and simulate infrastructure projects. The software incorporates advanced technologies like drones, reality modeling, and artificial intelligence to offer professionals with unique experience.
You can combine drone imagery with their software’s capabilities to gain accurate geospatial information and enhance decision-making during every phase of infrastructure projects.
The company’s commitment to advancing digital workflows and intelligent infrastructure solutions has positioned Bentley Systems as a trusted partner for organizations worldwide.
Bentley Systems empowers the infrastructure industry with cutting-edge technology, driving innovation and improving the way projects are planned, designed, and operated.
4. Pix4D
- Headquarters: Prilly, Switzerland
- Founders: Dr. Christoph Strecha
- Founded in: 2011
- Category: Surveying & Mapping
- Website: https://www.pix4d.com/
Pix4D is a renowned drone company that specializes in developing cutting-edge photogrammetry software for aerial mapping and surveying purposes.
Pix4D has revolutionized the way professionals and industries capture, process, and analyze geospatial data using drones.
Pix4D is a global leader in the drone mapping industry. The company’s software allows users to transform images captured by drones into accurate and detailed 3D models, orthomosaics, and point clouds.
These outputs are used in various sectors, including agriculture, construction, mining, surveying, and environmental conservation.
5. DroneDeploy
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California
- Founders: Mike Winn, Jono Millin, and Nicholas Pilkington
- Founded in: 2013
- Category: Data Analysis, Mapping
- Website: https://www.dronedeploy.com/
DroneDeploy is a leading provider of cloud-based software solutions for drone mapping and aerial data analysis.
DroneDeploy Mapping Software
DroneDeploy offers a comprehensive platform that enables users to plan, capture, and analyze aerial data using drones, robots, and 360 cameras. Their software utilizes advanced image processing algorithms and machine learning techniques to create high-resolution maps, 3D models, and real-time insights.
These capabilities find applications in industries such as agriculture, construction, mining, inspection, and insurance.
6. Propeller
- Headquarters: Sydney, Australia,
- Founders: Rory San Miguel and Francis Vierboom
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: GIS, 3D mapping, and photogrammetry
- Website: https://www.propelleraero.com/
Propeller Aero is an innovative drone technology company that focuses on providing end-to-end solutions for aerial data collection and analysis in the construction and mining industries.
Propeller offers a combination of hardware and software solutions that enable easy drone data collection, cloud-based processing, and actionable analytics. Their platform allows construction and mining professionals to visualize, measure, and compare site progress, track inventory, and perform volumetric calculations.
Propeller empowers its clients to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and streamline their operations by utilizing accurate and up-to-date aerial data.
7. ESRI
- Headquarters: Redlands, California
- Founders: Jack Dangermond and Laura Dangermond
- Founded in: 1969
- Category: Data Management, GIS, Mapping
- Website: https://www.esri.com/en-us/home
ESRI is the driving force behind ArcGIS, a world-renowned mapping software. ArcGIS seamlessly connects people with maps, data, and apps through geographic information systems (GIS). It is a versatile location platform accessible to individuals and organizations worldwide.
From Fortune 500 companies to governments and startups, Esri’s software empowers diverse industries to leverage geospatial information for informed decision-making.
ESRI (Environmental Systems Research Institute) is a renowned company that specializes in developing geographic information system (GIS) software and solutions for drones.
The company has established itself as a global leader in the field of spatial analytics.
It offers a wide range of software products and tools that enable organizations to effectively capture, analyze, and visualize geospatial data. Their solutions are used for various applications in industries, including government, urban planning, natural resource management, transportation, and emergency response.
ESRI’s GIS software integrates seamlessly with drones, allowing users to collect high-quality aerial imagery and combine it with other geospatial data layers. Through its powerful software, Esri helps organizations manage drone imagery, streamline workflows, and perform complex analyses.
8. Maps Made Easy
- Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States
- Team Members: Tudor Thomas, Dylan Shackelford
- Founded in: 2014
- Category: 3-D Model, Data Collection, Mapping
- Website: https://www.mapsmadeeasy.com/
Maps Made Easy is primarily focused on providing user-friendly mapping solutions for both individuals and businesses. It has revolutionized the world of drone mapping with cutting-edge software. Designed specifically for drone pilots, their powerful mapping solution enables users to create accurate, high-resolution maps.
With features like 3D stitching, stockpile volume measurement, and web-based georeferencing, Maps Made Easy empowers drone pilots to unlock the full potential of aerial imagery and take their mapping projects to new heights.
The company aims to simplify the process of aerial mapping and data analysis by providing user-friendly tools and streamlined workflows. These features allow efficient image processing, accurate geospatial insights, and seamless integration with various platforms and applications.
It provides a cloud platform that lets users plan drone flights, capture aerial images, and turn the data into clear maps and 3D models.
Maps Made Easy’s platform employs advanced algorithms to stitch together overlapping images captured by drones, to generate accurate and detailed maps. These maps can be further used for visualization, measurement, and analysis.
9. VOTIX
- Headquarters: Syracuse, New York, United States
- Founders: Edwin Sanchez, Eduardo Boucas, Daniel Echeverri
- Founded in: 2022
- Category: Drone automation, Orchestration, and Remote operation
- Website: https://votix.com/
VOTIX is an American drone software company that has built a game-changing platform for complete drone automation, orchestration, and remote operation. It’s hardware-agnostic, meaning it works seamlessly with any drone.
The VOTIX platform simplifies the entire drone ecosystem, connecting all the moving parts and making operations easier and fully scalable. It supports a wide range of applications, including inspections, surveillance, mapping, deliveries, emergency response, and more. VOTIX is designed for advanced operations like Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and Drone-in-a-Box (DIB) solutions, pushing the boundaries of what drones can achieve.
10. Airdata
- Headquarters: El Dorado Hills, California, United States
- Founder: Eran Steiner
- Founded in: 2015
- Category: Drone fleet data management
- Website: https://airdata.com/
AirData is the drone fleet data management and real-time flight streaming.. It offers a comprehensive solution for drone fleet operations, catering to businesses of all sizes.
Credit: AirData
With extensive expertise in cloud virtualization, data automation, and advanced analytics, AirData simplifies operations with features like automatic data capture, live streaming, and end-to-end compliance. It enhances safety with crash prevention tools, risk mitigation, and maintenance tracking, while also supporting mission planning and managing pilot skills and certifications. AirData streamlines drone fleet management for safer and more efficient operations.
With these companies leading the way, let’s take a look at how drones are impacting different industries.
Drone Companies Revolutionizing the Global Market
According to Drone Market Report, the global drone market is projected to reach $42.8 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 13.8%.
The drone industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, and this growth is expected to continue.
So if you are associated with the drone industry in any capacity, there’s good reason to feel optimistic about its growth and potential future.
Several factors have contributed to this growth, including technological advancements in sensors, batteries, and materials. making drones more versatile and efficient.
The increasing applications of drones in various industries, such as agriculture, construction, logistics, and mining, among others, have also driven growth.
The growing demand for different types of drones, such as fixed-wing drones, rotary-wing drones, and hybrid drones, among others, has also contributed to the industry’s growth.
The drone industry is set for a bright future. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and computer vision are increasingly integrated into drones. These technologies improve drone efficiency and expand their capabilities.
At the same time, the development of regulations and guidelines ensures safe and responsible drone use, opening new opportunities for drones in a variety of industries.
Here is an industry-wise breakdown of the estimated global drone market size in 2025.
| Industry | Estimated Global Drone Market Size in 2025 |
| Construction | USD 1145.2 Million |
| Agriculture | USD 893 Million |
| Logistics | USD 10,580 Million |
| Energy | USD 639 Million |
| Real Estate | USD 398 Million |
| Military Technology | USD 15.88 Billion |
| Medical | USD 360 Million |
| Utilities | USD 0.13 Billion |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the drone manufacturers’ market differ in different regions?
The drone market differs in various regions, and these differences can be classified into three main regions: Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Latin America.
- Asia-Pacific: This region is home to some of the top drone manufacturers, operators, and service providers in the world. The drone industry is growing rapidly here, and there are numerous companies to choose from.
- MEA: The use of drones in the MEA region has increased substantially in recent years, with businesses, individuals, and governments recognizing the potential of drones to revolutionize various industries. The region presents boundless opportunities for the drone market, and there is a growing demand for drone-related services.
- Latin America: This region is quickly emerging as one of the fastest-growing drone markets globally, with increasing demand from a range of industries, including agriculture, mining, and construction. The top drone manufacturers in Latin America are leading the way in innovation and catering to the needs of their customers.
Each region has its unique strengths and opportunities for growth, and the demand for drone-related services is increasing across all industries.
2. What are the safety regulations for drone operations?
When operating a drone, it is crucial to adhere to safety regulations to prevent harm to people and property. To ensure safe and responsible drone operations, drone operators must follow certain drone regulations.
3. What drone services are available?
There are many small drone service companies in the US, with single drone pilots offering services to clients. In addition, there are large marketplaces where drone pilots can find work, serving as a one-stop shop for clients.
Here are some of the drone services available in the market:
- Aerial inspection, surveying, and mapping services
- Aerial photography & Videography
- Customized drone solutions for agriculture, mining, and construction industries
- Drone delivery services for last-mile deliveries
- Industrial inspection services
- Surveillance operations
- Exploration and mining operations
- High-resolution imagery and data collection services
4. How do drone companies make money?
Drone companies make money through various revenue streams, including:
- Drone Sales: Selling consumer, industrial, and commercial drones.
- Software & Services: Offering subscription-based tools for mapping, surveying, and analytics.
- Data Collection: Providing aerial surveys and data insights for industries like agriculture and construction.
- Repairs & Maintenance: Servicing and upgrading drones.
- Leasing: Renting drones for short or long-term use.
- Training: Running programs to certify drone operators.
- Consulting: Helping businesses integrate drone technology.
- Accessories: Selling add-ons like batteries and cameras.
The companies can generate revenue through a combination of direct sales, services, and ongoing support. Explore our guide on best drone business ideas to know more.
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