With the rapid evolution of technology, drones have become increasingly accessible for the everyday consumer. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of aerial photography or a hobbyist searching for an affordable drone, there are several options available under $100. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best drones in this price range, highlighting their specifications, price, pros, and cons.
Best Drones Under $100
1. DroneX Pro
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 10 minutes
- Camera: 720p HD
- Range: 100 meters
- Features: Foldable design, gravity sensor, panoramic mode.
Price: $89
Pros:
- Compact and portable design.
- Suitable for beginners with easy controls.
- Decent camera for the price.
Cons:
- Limited flight time.
- Camera stabilization can be improved.
2. SkyViper e1700 Stunt Drone
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 7 minutes
- Features: Build-it-yourself, stunt buttons for tricks
Price: $70
Pros:
Fun for kids and enthusiasts with its stunt capabilities.
Provides an educational experience by allowing users to assemble the drone.
Cons:
- No camera.
- Limited flight time.
3. Hubsan X4 H107C
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 7 minutes
- Camera: 480p
- Range: 50 meters
- Features: LED lights, stable flight capabilities.
Price: $50
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Durable design; can withstand minor crashes.
- Good for indoor flying.
Cons:
- Low-resolution camera.
- Shorter range than others on the list.
4. Tello Quadcopter Drone
Specifications:
Flight Time: 13 minutes
Camera: 720p HD
Range: 100 meters
Features: VR headset compatibility, throw & go, 8D flips.
Price: $99
Pros:
- Longest flight time in this price range.
- Feature-rich with programmable options through Scratch.
- Stabilized video capture.
Cons:
- Requires a smartphone to operate.
- Can be affected by wind due to its lightweight design.
5. Potensic Upgraded A20 Mini Drone
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 8 minutes
- Range: 50 meters
- Features: Altitude hold, headless mode, one button takeoff/landing.
Price: $65
Pros:
- Perfect for kids and beginners.
- Safety features like emergency stop.
- Comes with 2 rechargeable batteries.
Cons:
- No camera.
- Limited range and flight time.
6. Holy Stone HS170 Predator Mini Drone
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 8 minutes
- Range: 50-70 meters
- Features: Headless mode, wind-resistant design, 3D flips.
Price: $45
Pros:
- Strong performance in windy conditions.
- Suitable for all levels, especially beginners.
- Fast charging time.
Cons:
- Lacks a camera.
- Shorter range compared to others.
7. JJRC H36 Mini Drone
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 5 minutes
- Range: 30 meters
- Features: 360° flip, headless mode, return home function.
Price: $28
Pros:
- Highly affordable for beginners.
- Return home function helps prevent loss.
- Compact and lightweight.
Cons:
- Very limited flight time.
- No camera.
8. SNAPTAIN H823H Mini Drone
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 7 minutes
- Range: 30-50 meters
- Features: 3D flips, headless mode, three-speed modes.
Price: $39
Pros:
- Suitable for indoor flights.
- Multiple speed modes for various skill levels.
- User-friendly features for beginners.
Cons:
- No camera.
- Range and flight time can be limiting for outdoor flights.
9. EACHINE E61HW WiFi FPV Quadcopter
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 8 minutes
- Camera: 720p HD with FPV capabilities
- Range: 70 meters
- Features: Altitude hold, one-key return, headless mode.
Price: $52
Pros:
- FPV flying experience at a budget price.
- Stable hover with altitude hold feature.
- Decent camera for its price range.
Cons:
- Limited battery life.
- Some users might find connectivity issues with FPV.
10. Cheerwing Syma X20 Mini Drone
Specifications:
- Flight Time: 5 minutes
- Range: 20 meters
- Features: Headless mode, one-button takeoff/landing, altitude hold.
Price: $32
Pros:
- Extremely compact and pocket-sized.
- Altitude hold provides stable flight.
- Perfect for indoor usage.
Cons:
- Short range and flight time.
- Lacks a camera.
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FAQs
Q1: Can I find a good quality drone for under $100?
A: Yes, there are several drones under $100 that offer good quality for beginners or casual users. While they may not have advanced features like high-end models, many offer features like HD cameras, decent flight times, and ease of use.
Q2: What should I look for in a drone under $100?
A: When buying a drone under $100, consider features like flight time, camera quality, ease of control, durability, and additional functions such as altitude hold, headless mode, and one-key takeoff/landing.
Q3: Do drones under $100 come with cameras?
A: Yes, many drones in this price range come equipped with cameras, though the resolution may vary. You can typically find drones with 720p or even 1080p cameras for under $100.
Q4: How long do drones under $100 typically fly?
A: Drones under $100 usually have a flight time of 5 to 15 minutes per battery charge. To extend your flying time, you can purchase additional batteries.
Q5: Are drones under $100 suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, most drones under $100 are designed with beginners in mind. They often come with features like one-key takeoff/landing, headless mode, and altitude hold, making them easy to control for first-time flyers.
Conclusion
The world of drones has something to offer for everyone, regardless of their budget. If you’re looking for the best drones under $100, consider factors like flight time, camera quality, and additional features. While these drones may not rival their pricier counterparts in certain aspects, they certainly offer a lot of value and fun for their cost. Remember to always fly responsibly and acquaint yourself with local drone regulations before taking to the skies.
