Drones for Beginners

[kcflhrc]

So I think I want to get a Drone with a camera and maybe VR goggles. I'm a beginner so I want something relatively inexpensive. Lets say under $200 at the very most. I have 10 acres so I will just be flying it on my property. Any suggestions. Looks like Walmart has a few starting at $99 up to $179 for a ProMark Brand.

 

[bunyip]

I have bought cheap drones and find they are difficult to fly yet alone control, I bit the bullet and bought a DJI Mavic Pro, they pretty much fly themselves, auto takeoff, auto land if you want, let go of everything and they just hover plus they have a 4K camera, an extremely stable platform but something to probably aim for.
Next model down is the DJI spark, about half the price (here) and some similar features.
Both are very compact too, not wanting to burst your bubble but is it worth waiting and saving for.
To make the analogy would you trade your JD for a cheap chinese tractor that 'looks' the same.

 

[mbohuntr]

So I think I want to get a Drone with a camera and maybe VR goggles. I'm a beginner so I want something relatively inexpensive. Lets say under $200 at the very most. I have 10 acres so I will just be flying it on my property. Any suggestions. Looks like Walmart has a few starting at $99 up to $179 for a ProMark Brand.

I got a drone with the camera and cell phone app.... works awesome. Personally, I wish mine had the auto return in case of loss of signal. Here's why... If I cruise around the yard, things are fine, but when I go 100' or so up, there is always a gentle breeze that makes it drift over the woods, and I cannot see which end is pointed where, so trying to bring it back is hair raising to say the least. I am always a second or two from losing sight, and control... I wanted to see the trails I'm cutting and where the wet spots are.

 

[ovrszd]

I've never tried a cheap drone.

I bought an Autel XSP last Spring. It's pretty smart. Takes 4K pics/videos.

Drone, Remote Controller, Charger, 3 batteries, extra props, Hard Case, $914.

Last time I looked I had flown 122 flights. I shoot a LOT of video and pics. Which is why I purchased the Drone. Icing on the cake is it's enjoyable to fly.

Here's an example of the pics available.

 

[Slowpoke Slim]

I'd go ahead and get the cheap one. That way when your neighbors use it for target practice, you're not out much cash.

:laughing:

 

[bunyip]

Richard is not very popular at our place, it was his video that got me started on 4K and buying the Mavic and SWMBO has not forgiven me:laughing:
I looked at the Autel and it has nice specs but not readily available here so that is why I took the specs and went the way I did with the DJI Mavic Pro, it is a long slippery slope.
I think they are comparable aircraft along with the Phantom but I must admit the lack of bulk sold me.
Thanks Richard:thumbsup:

This was 1080 and messing with movie maker
powlett 2 on Vimeo

 

[tungularafishcamp]

So how much do you have to invest in one before you can see the footage in your device when you run it? Might make flying it easier if you could watch the drone view realtime.

 

[ovrszd]

Richard is not very popular at our place, it was his video that got me started on 4K and buying the Mavic and SWMBO has not forgiven me:laughing:
I looked at the Autel and it has nice specs but not readily available here so that is why I took the specs and went the way I did with the DJI Mavic Pro, it is a long slippery slope.
I think they are comparable aircraft along with the Phantom but I must admit the lack of bulk sold me.
Thanks Richard:thumbsup:

This was 1080 and messing with movie maker
powlett 2 on Vimeo

Sorry my friend!!!! It's okay to blame me. Just remember I'm gonna blame you for something I do!!!

 

[ovrszd]

So how much do you have to invest in one before you can see the footage in your device when you run it? Might make flying it easier if you could watch the drone view realtime.

That's a good question! Having not shopped for the lower end drones, I don't know. Hopefully others with experience can che in.

I'm not condoning spending a grand. Just expect to get what you pay for.

 

[ovrszd]

I'd go ahead and get the cheap one. That way when your neighbors use it for target practice, you're not out much cash.

:laughing:

I firmly believe piloting any drone comes with much personal responsibility!!