12+ Best Drones for Incredible Photos & Video in 2022

12+ Best Drones for Incredible Photos & Video in 2022

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Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Neither! It’s our list of the 12+ best drones in 2022!

Who would’ve thought that some of Hollywood’s most amazing camera angles can now be achieved by virtually any operator at a fraction of the price?

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Truly, drones have taken cinematography and filmmaking to a new level, and the capacity to record footage at altitudes that once begged for cranes and helicopters can now simply be navigated on land.

From big-budget movies and endearing short independent films to some of the most tear-jerking wedding videos, drones are being optimized to the best of their abilities to make the most out of what they can offer.

All things considered, this feature will include several types of drones that sport features like 4k technology, high ISO performances, waterproof shells, and so much more!

12+ Best Drones in 2022

  1. DJI Mavic 3 — The best drone in 2022 overall (Editor’s Choice)
  2. Ryze Tech Tello — The best budget drone for incredible footage
  3. DJI Mini 2The best value drone for incredible footage
  4. DJI Air 2SThe best drone for professional filmmakers
  5. DJI Mavic Air 2 — The best drone for hobbyist cinematographers
  6. DJI Inspire 2 — The best high-end drone for incredible footage
  7. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom — The best drone for shooting 5K footage
  8. Parrot Anafi — The best foldable drone for incredible footage
  9. PowerVision Poweregg X — The best all-weather drone for incredible footage
  10. DJI Mavic Mini — The best drone for beginners
  11. Autel EVO Nano — The best 4K drone for incredible footage
  12. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 — The best premium drone for incredible footage
  13. Autel Robotics EVO Nano+ The best dual autofocus HD camera

What is the best drone in 2022?

As technology gets better and better, the number of drones being released for consumers grows and grows. That can make choosing the best option a tough one. Luckily, we’re pretty good at this and in our opinion, the Mavic 3 from DJI is the best drone overall.

If you’re interested in some of our other selections, be sure to check out our comparison table below.


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Thumbnail
Best Overall
DJI Mavic 3 - Camera Drone with 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, 5.1K Video, Omnidirectional Obstacle...
Best Budget
Ryze Tech Tello - Mini Drone Quadcopter UAV for Kids Beginners 5MP Camera HD720 Video 13min Flight...
Best Value
DJI Mini 2 – Ultralight and Foldable Drone Quadcopter, 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K Camera, 12MP Photo,...
Best Professional
DJI Air 2S - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 3-Axis Gimbal Camera, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4...
Best Foldable
Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone, Foldable Quadcopter Drone with 4K HDR Camera, Compact, Silent &...
Best All-Weather
PowerEgg X Explorer 4K/60FPS Multi-Purpose Drone for Professional Photography, Video Conferencing &...
Title
DJI Mavic 3 - Camera Drone with 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, 5.1K Video, Omnidirectional Obstacle...
Ryze Tech Tello - Mini Drone Quadcopter UAV for Kids Beginners 5MP Camera HD720 Video 13min Flight...
DJI Mini 2 – Ultralight and Foldable Drone Quadcopter, 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K Camera, 12MP Photo,...
DJI Air 2S - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 3-Axis Gimbal Camera, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4...
Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone, Foldable Quadcopter Drone with 4K HDR Camera, Compact, Silent &...
PowerEgg X Explorer 4K/60FPS Multi-Purpose Drone for Professional Photography, Video Conferencing &...
Prime Status
-
Star Rating
-
-
-
-
-
Reviews
176 Reviews
-
-
-
-
-
Weight
249g
80g
249g
570g
310g
522g
Video Resolution
4K @ 30fps
720p
5.4K video at 30fps
4K HDR 30fps
4K
Camera Resolution
48MP
5MP
12MP
12MP
21MP
12MP
Battery Life
28 minutes
5 minutes
31 minutes (2250mAh)
31 minutes
25 minutes (2700mAh)
30 minutes
Max Range
10km / 6.2mi
100m
10km / 6.2 miles
10km
4km / 2.5mi
6km
Price
$2,049.00
$99.00
$449.00
$999.00
$549.00
$764.00
Best Overall
Thumbnail
DJI Mavic 3 - Camera Drone with 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, 5.1K Video, Omnidirectional Obstacle...
Title
DJI Mavic 3 - Camera Drone with 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, 5.1K Video, Omnidirectional Obstacle...
Prime Status
Star Rating
Reviews
176 Reviews
Weight
249g
Video Resolution
4K @ 30fps
Camera Resolution
48MP
Battery Life
28 minutes
Max Range
10km / 6.2mi
Price
$2,049.00
Buy Now
Best Budget
Thumbnail
Ryze Tech Tello - Mini Drone Quadcopter UAV for Kids Beginners 5MP Camera HD720 Video 13min Flight...
Title
Ryze Tech Tello - Mini Drone Quadcopter UAV for Kids Beginners 5MP Camera HD720 Video 13min Flight...
Prime Status
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Weight
80g
Video Resolution
720p
Camera Resolution
5MP
Battery Life
5 minutes
Max Range
100m
Price
$99.00
Buy Now
Best Value
Thumbnail
DJI Mini 2 – Ultralight and Foldable Drone Quadcopter, 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K Camera, 12MP Photo,...
Title
DJI Mini 2 – Ultralight and Foldable Drone Quadcopter, 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K Camera, 12MP Photo,...
Prime Status
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Weight
249g
Video Resolution
Camera Resolution
12MP
Battery Life
31 minutes (2250mAh)
Max Range
10km / 6.2 miles
Price
$449.00
Buy Now
Best Professional
Thumbnail
DJI Air 2S - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 3-Axis Gimbal Camera, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4...
Title
DJI Air 2S - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 3-Axis Gimbal Camera, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4...
Prime Status
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Weight
570g
Video Resolution
5.4K video at 30fps
Camera Resolution
12MP
Battery Life
31 minutes
Max Range
10km
Price
$999.00
Buy Now
Best Foldable
Thumbnail
Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone, Foldable Quadcopter Drone with 4K HDR Camera, Compact, Silent &...
Title
Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone, Foldable Quadcopter Drone with 4K HDR Camera, Compact, Silent &...
Prime Status
-
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Weight
310g
Video Resolution
4K HDR 30fps
Camera Resolution
21MP
Battery Life
25 minutes (2700mAh)
Max Range
4km / 2.5mi
Price
$549.00
Buy Now
Best All-Weather
Thumbnail
PowerEgg X Explorer 4K/60FPS Multi-Purpose Drone for Professional Photography, Video Conferencing &...
Title
PowerEgg X Explorer 4K/60FPS Multi-Purpose Drone for Professional Photography, Video Conferencing &...
Prime Status
Star Rating
-
Reviews
-
Weight
522g
Video Resolution
4K
Camera Resolution
12MP
Battery Life
30 minutes
Max Range
6km
Price
$764.00
Buy Now

How to Choose the Best Drone for Your Needs

While the excitement behind owning and using a drone to capture incredible angles and footage even has us excited, like any other big piece of tech,

While it’s now become so incredibly easy to buy drones online, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has guidelines to follow. There is currently a long list of don’ts when it comes to drone-flying but the most fundamental is to always keep your drone where you can see it and to never fly above people. For the complete guide, you may refer to the rules here.

Furthermore, non-commercial drones between a little over half a pound to more than 55 pounds require a registration fee. In other words, to carry and operate a drone, you’ll need a license.

Remote Control

Like computer game controllers, some drones rely on joysticks to fly. One stick covers the quadcopter—meaning the tiling of direction to either left or right—while the other stick covers the drone’s rotation.

All that said, look for a drone whose camera fits well in your hands. Interestingly, a few of the more affordable drone picks don’t have remotes! Users can simply use their smartphones to navigate the device. Still, some camera drones producers sell their remotes at a separate price, allowing consumers to choose whether they need it or not.

Repairability

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Don’t always take an ads’ word for it—drones can crash multiple times without actually breaking. Still, you want to make sure that the drone you pick comes with protective parts to shield the insides from breaking, should it suffer an accidental bump or crash.

Even then, damages are unavoidable. A great drone from a popular brand should have repair centers, eager to accommodate you. Determine which parts of your drone are replaceable and whether or not your provider can easily remedy your drone’s potential breakage.

Battery life 

It goes without saying how a device’s battery life is important for nearly everything that’s battery operated. When you’re expected a piece of tech to hover around the skies, you’re going to want to make even more sure that the drone you get is reliable and can endure for a reasonable amount of time. Most drones take half an hour to charge completely. What’s more, many of them also come with replicable batteries should you need to swap a pair in the middle of filming.

Camera Quality 

There’s absolutely no point in flying a drone if the shots and footage you get amount to nothing. That said, the best drones in 2022 now have impressive resolutions of 4k, if not more.

Still, competent drones that capture camera quality at 1080p aren’t particularly bad either—although they are marketed more towards beginners and hobbyists versus professional filmmakers. The camera drone market is diverse, and the choice is yours!

Price

Price will always be a no-brainer since how much you’re willing to spend on a drone is an intimate decision. At present, the price range of drones starts at a few hundred bucks, if not cheaper, to more than a thousand. And as with everything in tech—you get what you pay for.

12+ Best Drones for Photo & Video in 2022

1. DJI Mavic 3 (Editor’s Choice)

DJI Mavic 3
DJI Mavic 3. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best drone for incredible footage in 2022 overall

Weight: 249g | Video resolution: 4K @ 30fps | Camera resolution: 48MP | Battery life: 28 minutes | Max Range: 10km / 6.2mi

If you’re looking for the most premium camera drone in the market, the DJI Mavic 3 is what you should be eyeing. Packed with a dual-camera setup that features an impressive 162mm telephoto lens with a 20MP Four Thirds sensor, this aerial footage-recording beast is the one to beat. Its flight time is roughly 30 minutes to a little over that and it can also record in 4K/120p slow-mo footage, if not shoot 5K/50p with regular-paced videos.

If you wish to snag the DJI Mavic 3 Cine bundle, you afford yourself a luxurious DJI RC Pro controller and 1TB of internal storage, among many other cool features and perks. While this one’s a tad pricey, it’s worth every buck if you’re in it for the long haul.

Pros Cons
➕ Great 4K footage ➖ Expensive
➕ Adjustable aperture

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
DJI Mavic 3 - Camera Drone with 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, 5.1K Video, Omnidirectional Obstacle...
176 Reviews
DJI Mavic 3 - Camera Drone with 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, 5.1K Video, Omnidirectional Obstacle...
  • Imaging Above Everything - With a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, the sensor provides a 12.8-stop dynamic range that retains more details in highlights and shadows, upgrading your work to a professional...
  • 46 Minutes of Flight Time - Stay in the air longer and capture more with a breathtaking max flight time of 46 minutes. This lets you get all the shots you want on just a single battery.
  • Fly Safer - DJI Mavic 3 drone with camera is equipped with advanced Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing. This lets you fly confidently and safely wherever you are.
  • Explore and Capture more - the DJI Mavic 3 drone offers a 15-kilometer max transmission range, which means you can fly farther to explore and capture more. And with the O3 Plus Transmission system,...
  • Smart Return to Home - With a new Advanced RTH system, Mavic 3 camera drone can return to its home point on a fast, safe, and optimized route. Whether activated by low battery or the pilot, getting...

 

2. Ryze Tech Tello

Ryze Tech Tello
Ryze Tech Tello. Image credit: Ryze/Amazon.

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The best budget drone for incredible footage

Weight: 80g | Controller: Optional | Camera resolution: 5MP | Flight time: 13 minutes | Range: 100m

Also designed by DJI, the Ryze Tech Tello is a cute pick for anyone wanting to own a drone without the financial pressure of having to ace its usage immediately. Suitable for first-timers, this kid-marketed done packs a dated 720p camera that shoots decent videos and photos.

And while its flight time is only 5 minutes, you’re sure to learn a lot about how to navigate bigger and more professional drones in the future.

Pros Cons
➕ Great flight controls ➖ Flight time could be better
➕ Compact design

Latest Price on Amazon:

Ryze Tech Tello - Mini Drone Quadcopter UAV for Kids Beginners 5MP Camera HD720 Video 13min Flight...
  • Equipped with a high-quality image processor, the Tello drone shoots incredible photos and videos. Even if you don’t know how to fly, you can record pro-level videos with EZ Shots and share them on...
  • Camera features 5MP (2592x1936) photos and HD720 videos at a maximum flight time of 13 minutes.
  • Tello has two antennas that make video transmission extra stable and a high-capacity battery that offers impressively long flight times.
  • Thanks to all the tech that Tello’s packing, like a flight controller powered by DJI, you can perform awesome tricks with this mini drone. Flying has never been so fun and easy.
  • What you get: RyzeTech Tello powered by DJI, 4x Propellers (Pair), Propeller Guards (Set), Battery, Micro USB Cable, Propeller Removal Tool

 

3. DJI Mini 2

DJI Mini 2
DJI Mini 2. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best value drone for incredible footage

Weight: 249g | Dimensions (folded): 38×81×58mm | Video resolution: 4K 30fps ([email protected]) | Camera resolution: 12MP | Battery life: 31 minutes (2250mAh) | Max Range: 10km / 6.2 miles| Max Speed: 57kph / 35.7mph

At barely $500, the DJI Mini 2 is a brilliant pick. It’s small, easy to use, and lasts up to half an hour flying. Perfect for student filmmakers and budding content creators, this piece shoots at 4K/30 fps and weighs only 249 grams.

You also don’t need to obtain a license for this contender from the FAA, making it a much easier camera drone to own. You will, however, have to be careful in flying this when winds are strong. It is, after all, incredibly, compact.

Pros Cons
➕ Great battery life ➖ Not cheap
➕ Portable

Latest Price on Amazon:

DJI Mini 2 – Ultralight and Foldable Drone Quadcopter, 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K Camera, 12MP Photo,...
  • 【PACK LIGHT, FLY FREE】: at less than 249 g, it weighs about as much as an apple and fits in the palm of your hand. compact and convenient, this small drone is your ideal travel companion,...
  • 【3-AXIS GIMBAL WITH 4K CAMERA】: a 12mp camera in the sky delivers content guaranteed to impress. along with 4k/30fps video and a 3-axis motorized gimbal, mini 2 ensures stunning image quality that...
  • 【OCUSYNC 2.0 VIDEO TRANSMISSION】: mini 2 supports up to 10km of hd video transmission and has excellent anti-interference capabilities, giving you the ability to fly farther and see clearer.
  • 【POWERFUL PERFORMANCE】: with a max battery life of 31 minutes, dji mini 2 grants more than enough time to compose the perfect shot. mini 2 can resist level 5 winds and take off at a max altitude...
  • 【4X ZOOM】: there’s no need to get so close for your dream shot. 4x digital zoom makes it safer and more convenient when transitioning between shots of varying distance and composition. Operating...

 

4. DJI Air 2S

DJI Air 2S
DJI Air 2S. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best drone for professional filmmakers

Weight: 570g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 12MP |Battery size: 3,950 mAh | Range: 10km

One of the more purchased DJI offerings, the DJI Air 2S is a great pick for professional filmmakers. Combining the best features of both the Mavic 2 Pro and the Mavic Air 2, this pick affords you a 20MP 1-inch sensor.

Apart from its being lightweight, one of the favorite things creatives love about this shooter is its capacity to record 5.4K video at 30fps, giving you crisp footage and cinematic shots. It doesn’t matter if you run a wedding videography company or a startup film studio—this one’s a champion.

Pros Cons
➕ Great 1-inch sensor ➖ Side sensors are non-existant
➕ Lightweight

Latest Price on Amazon:

DJI Air 2S - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 3-Axis Gimbal Camera, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4...
  • 【1-INCH IMAGE SENSOR】Equipped with a 1-inch image sensor and large 2.4μm pixels, DJI Air 2S is capable of 5.4K/30fps and 4K/60fps video.
  • 【MASTERSHOTS】The next evolution of QuickShots, MasterShots is an advanced intelligent feature that gives users the best shots in any location with just a tap.
  • 【THE CENTER OF ATTENTION】FocusTrack features Spotlight 2.0, ActiveTrack 4.0, and Point of Interest 3.0, making it a breeze for DJI Air 2S to follow or circle your subject. Max Service Ceiling...
  • 【ONE BILLION COLORS】The 10-bit Dlog-M color profile can record up to one billion colors while retaining all the little details that make footage pop.
  • 【7.5 MILES MAX VIDEO TRANSMISSION】DJI Air 2S features DJI's most advanced O3 (OcuSync 3.0) image transmission technology, giving you an ultra-smooth, clear, and reliable image feed every time you...

 

5. DJI Mavic Air 2 

DJI Mavic Air 2 
DJI Mavic Air 2 . Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best drone for hobbyist cinematographers

Weight: 570g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 12MP | Battery size: 3,950 mAh | Range: 10km

If you want to get a slice of that 4k magic without wanting to splurge more than 3 digits, then the DJI Mavic Air 2 is what you’re looking for.

Able to take 4k at 60fps, this piece can also take breathtaking 48-megapixel pictures too. And like many of the camera drones on this list, this find’s flight time also exceeds a little over half an hour.

Pros Cons
➕ Easy to navigate ➖ Camera feed could be smoother
➕ Good battery life

Latest Price on Amazon:

DJI Mavic Air 2 - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 48MP Camera 4K Video 8K Hyperlapse 1/2" CMOS Sensor...
  • 【UP YOUR GAME】: The Mavic Air 2 camera drone takes power and portability to the next level. It combines a powerful camera with intelligent shooting modes for stunning results. Push your...
  • 【NEXT-LEVEL CONTENT】: Capture impressive 48MP photos with a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor while the 3-axis gimbal provides 4K/60fps video. The secret to incredible HDR video is a high-performance Quad...
  • 【IMPROVED FLIGHT】: An impressive flight time of up to 34 minutes allows you to pull off epic, fast-paced shots. Obstacle sensing in three directions makes it extra convenient for beginners and...
  • 【INTELLIGENT TRACKING】: Mavic Air 2 features intuitive shooting functions that make aerial photography easier than ever. Spotlight 2.0 keeps the camera locked on a subject while you fly freely....
  • 【APP COMPATIBILITY】: The DJI Fly app requires iOS v10.0, Android v6.0, or above. Compatible devices include: iPhone (11 Pro Max, 11 Pro, 11, XS Max, XS, XR, X, 8 Plus, 8, 7 Plus, 7, 6s Plus, 6s, 6...

 

6. DJI Inspire 2

DJI Inspire 2 Drone
DJI Inspire 2 Drone. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best high-end drone for incredible footage

Weight: 3440g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 30MP |Battery Size: 4280mAh | Range: 7 km

The DJI Inspire 2 is arguably a magnificent flagship piece. It’s a little down on our list, though, because of how expensive it is. It’s a capable device.

Sporting a sophisticated metal composite frame, this one is a gorgeous drone to look at. With the ability to shoot 5k and packing object avoidance technology, there’s a lot to love and play with here.

Pros Cons
➕ Great build quality ➖ Expensive
➕ Impressive battery life

Latest Price on Amazon:

DJI Inspire 2 Drone
  • Efficient workflow
  • Sense and avoid
  • Spotlight Pro; Compatible with 5.2K Gimbal Cameras
  • Intelligent flight modes. Obstacle Sensing Range : 0-16.4 feet (0-5 m)
  • Smart return to home.Operating Temperature:-4° to 104° F (-20° to 40° C)

 

7. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom

DJI Mavic 2 Zoom
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best drone for shooting 5K footage

Weight: 905g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 12MP | Battery size: 3,950 mAh | Range: 8km

The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom may have been launched roughly 4 years ago but it’s 162mm telephoto lens still packs a unique punch considering the many emerging camera drones available today.

That factored in if you’re getting a drone to capture facial expressions and intimate movements from afar, say for short films and movies, then this pick is sure to deliver.

You’ll have to bear in mind though that this drone only sports a 12MP sensor. Nonetheless, the pictures and footage should still appear decent and usable for professional usage at best.

Pros Cons
➕ Easy to navigate ➖ High-priced
➕ Great optical zoom

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom - Drone Quadcopter UAV with Smart Controller Optical Zoom Camera 3-Axis Gimbal 4K...
  • Powered by a 1/2.3-inch 12MP sensor with up to 4x zoom, including a 2x optical zoom (24–48 mm), 4 the Mavic 2 Zoom camera drone is all about dynamic perspectives.
  • Up to 31 minutes flight time, 44 mph max speed, 905G takeoff weight, 3-axis gimbal for steady shots, 8GB internal storage, SD card Support up to 128 GB
  • Functions include ActiveTrack 2. 0, Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing, Hyperlapse, Low-Noise Design, Adjustable Aperture, HDR Photos, Dolly Zoom
  • The DJI Smart Controller comes with an ultra-bright 5.5-inch 1080p display that maintains clear visibility and vivid color even in direct sunlight.
  • What you get: DJI Mavic 2 Zoom, Smart Controller, Intelligent Flight Battery, Gimbal Protector, Remote Controller, 3x Propellers (Pair), Battery Charger, Power Cable, Communication Cable (USB3. 0...

 

8. Parrot Anafi

Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone
Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone. Image credit: Parrot/Amazon.

The best foldable drone for incredible footage

Weight: 310g | Dimensions (folded): 244×67×65mm | Dimensions (unfolded): 240×175×65mm | Video resolution: 4K HDR 30fps | Camera resolution: 21MP | Battery life: 25 minutes (2700mAh) | Max Range: 4km / 2.5mi | Max Speed: 55kph / 35mph

If you’re not a fan of DJI camera drones, maybe Parrot Anafi will appeal to you. One of the coolest things about this piece is how the device’s camera can rotate up, allowing you to capture footage from what the drone sees above and not only below. If you’re looking for a small non-DJI, Parrot Anafi is a stellar alternative.

Pros Cons
➕ Portable ➖ Some features need to be purchased through the app
➕ Vertical-turn gimbal

Latest Price on Amazon:

Parrot PF728000 ANAFI Drone, Foldable Quadcopter Drone with 4K HDR Camera, Compact, Silent &...
  • This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product...
  • Convenient audio controls adjust volume
  • QuickPair technology for fast set up
  • On-off switch to save battery when needed
  • Convenient audio controls adjust volume; QuickPair technology for fast set up; On-off switch to save battery when needed

 

9. PowerVision Poweregg X

PowerEgg X Explorer
PowerEgg X Explorer. Image credit: PowerEgg/Amazon.

The best all-weather drone for incredible footage

Weight: 522g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 12MP | Flight time: 30 mins | Range: 6km

What makes the PowerVision Poweregg X a standout among its contemporaries is its ability to land on water. Thanks to its removable waterproof shell, users can be as creative and imaginative with whatever water-centric ideas they have.

Its flight time is a little under half an hour and flies intuitively too. While its image and video quality are great, they don’t quite match up to the ones you get with DJI.

Pros Cons
➕ Waterproof ➖ Clarity could be better
➕ Can also be used as a handheld camera

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
PowerEgg X Explorer 4K/60FPS Multi-Purpose Drone for Professional Photography, Video Conferencing &...
  • PowerEgg X is a multi-function device that can be used as an autonomous personal AI camera, a handheld 3-axis AI camera, or a high-performance drone.
  • The AI Face Recognition technology delivers accurate, efficient, multi-angle, remote face recognition and subject lock-on when following the subject.
  • The patented SyncVoice technology picks up high-fidelity sound using the mobilephone’s microphone or a wireless micophone and automatically synchronizes the audio with the pictures.
  • The 4K UHD camera on a 3-axis gimbal captures stabilized views.
  • What's included: PowerEgg X, Remote Controller, Wrist Strap, Full Set of Arms & Propellers, 1 Spare Pair of Propellers, 1 Intelligent Battery, Intelligent Charger, Carrying Case

 

10. DJI Mavic Mini

DJI Mavic Mini
DJI Mavic Mini. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best drone for beginners

Weight: 249g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 12MP | Battery size: 2,600 mAh | Range: 5.8 GHz: 4000 m (FCC); 2500 m (SRRC)

The DJI Mavic Mini is a steal, especially for beginners If you are, however, in the market for a 4k camera drone, this one isn’t it. What this packs strongly, though, is 30-minute battery life and a three-axis gimbal, making shoot smooth and beautiful aerial footage. If you’re only looking for something basic, this one should do its job.

Pros Cons
➕ Aesthetically pleasing ➖ Not 4K
➕ Reasonable price point

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
DJI Mavic Mini - Drone FlyCam Quadcopter UAV with 2.7K Camera 3-Axis Gimbal GPS 30min Flight Time,...
  • The compact yet powerful Mavic Mini camera drone is the perfect creative companion, capturing your moments in a way that effortlessly elevates the ordinary
  • Weighing less than 0.55lbs by 250 grams, Mavic Mini is almost as light as the average smartphone. In the United States and Canada, you can fly this camera drone without the need to register your drone...
  • Mavic Mini supports 12MP aerial photos and 2.7K HD videos. A 3-axis motorized gimbal provides superior camera stability and ensures clear, Ultra-smooth footage
  • Mavic Mini’s weight allows it to stay in the air longer than similar consumer FlyCams on the market. Enjoy up to 30 minutes of flight time with a fully-charged battery
  • DJI Fly App requires iOS v10.0, Android v6.0 or above. Compatible devices include: iPhone 11 Pro Max, 11 Pro, 11, XS Max, XS, XR, X, 8 Plus, 8, 7 Plus, 7, 6s Plus, 6s, 6 Plus, 6, Samsung Galaxy S10...

 

11. Autel EVO Nano

Autel Robotics EVO Nano
Autel Robotics EVO Nano. Image credit: Autel/Amazon.

The best 4K drone for incredible footage

Weight: 249g | Wing span (unfolded): 260×325mm | Video resolution: 4K @ 30fps | Camera resolution: 48MP | Battery life: 28 minutes | Max Range: 10km / 6.2mi

One of the first things you’re immediately going to notice with the Autel EVO Nano is how lightweight it is. Packing a three-way collision sensor technology and one massive sensor, this machine is a powerhouse for obvious reasons.

It takes excellent images and high-resolution live previews. Additionally, this pick is also great for operators and filmmakers who are looking to blur the background of the subject while filming, making it easier to go about post-production editing.

Pros Cons
➕ Incredible image sensor ➖ Cheaper alternatives available
➕ Wonderful avoidance tech

Latest Price on Amazon:

Autel Robotics EVO Nano Premium Bundle – 249g Ultralight Foldable Drone, 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K...
  • 【2022 NEWEST ULTRALIGHT EVO NANO DRONE】Autel evo nano drone features powerful aerial photography capabilities packed in a compact, foldable, palm-sized frame. Even weights only 249g, the EVO...
  • 【< 249G ULTRALIGHT & FOLDABLE AIRCRAFT】Autel nano drone weigh only 249 grams, like the DJI Mini and Mini 2, ideal for the traveler or unlicensed hobbyist operating where restrictions exist. With...
  • 【4K/30FPS VIDEO, 48MP】Autel Robotics EVO Nano aircraft is packed a 1/2-inch(0.-inch) 48-megapixel sensor with up to 16x digital zoom, captures impressive 48MP photos and records ultra-sharp...
  • 【FLY SAFER WITH 3-DIRECTION VISION SENSORS】Unlike the DJI Mini 2, which only has downward vision sensors, Autel EVO Nano mini drone features 3 direction obstacle avoidance with forward, rear and...
  • 【EVO NANO PREMIUM BUNDLE INCLUDES 】Autel Robotics EVO Nano premium bundle includes 1* EVO Nano Aircraft (including gimbal cover), 5* Total Pairs Propellers, 3* Total flight battery, 1* Propeller...

 

12. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Plus V2.0
DJI Phantom 4 Pro Plus V2.0. Image credit: DJI/Amazon.

The best premium drone for incredible footage

Weight: 1375g | Controller: Yes | Camera resolution: 20MP | Battery size: 6000mAh | Range: 8km

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 may have been launched in 2018 but it remains to be one of the finest in its category. Reliable to combat windy weather situations, this pick packs a 20MP 1-inch sensor and boats a whopping 4K frame rate.

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 performs great when it comes to flying in unpredictable weather. If you’re shooting in jungles, deserts, or rainy forests, this is what you should get.

Pros Cons
➕ Great 4K footage ➖ Heavy
➕ Reliable

Latest Price on Amazon:

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Plus V2.0 - Drone Quadcopter UAV with 20MP Camera 1" CMOS Sensor 4K H.265 Video...
  • The Phantom 4 Pro+ V2.0 camera drone comes equipped with a 3-axis motorized gimbal and a 1-inch 20MP CMOS sensor with a mechanical shutter that eliminates rolling shutter distortion.
  • With the 5.5-inch 1080p LCD screen built into the optional remote controller, your images are easily visible even in direct sunlight.
  • The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is a beast when it comes to flight performance. It has a maximum flight speed of 72 kph and an 8km transmission range with 1080p livestreaming and automatic frequency switching...
  • The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 offers Intelligent Flight Modes such as TapFly, ActiveTrack, Draw mode, Gesture mode, and more. Draw lets you control the flight path with a fixed altitude simply by creating a...
  • What you get: DJI Phantom 4 Pro+ V2.0, Remote Controller with 5.5" Screen, Intelligent Flight, Battery, Charger, Power Cable, 4x Propellers (pair), Gimbal Clamp, microSD Card (32GB), Micro USB Cable,...

 

13. Autel Robotics EVO Nano+

Autel Robotics EVO Nano+
Autel Robotics EVO Nano+. Image Credits: Amazon

The best dual autofocus HD camera

If you want to buy a mini drone, Autel Robotics EVO Nano+  is a perfect choice. It weighs even less than a smartphone and comes with a foldable design that fits in any small space. 

It comes with RYYB (what does RYYB stand for? Write it out) technology which is the first light technology that helps in increasing the light by 40% while shooting. It also consists of the 1/1.28CMOS, 2.44μm, and 50MP lens from the world-renowned high-quality company of Leica in Germany. It supports 4K/30fps video to offer superior quality images even in low-light conditions.

To avoid any obstacles while flying, it comes with three-way obstacle avoidance on forwarding, backward, and downwards. It also consists of binocular vision sensors for your safety flying even in a complex environment. 

The Autel drone EVO Nano+ can fly at a maximum altitude of 4,000 meters, along with a 28min flight time with full stability. It helps you to deliver a professional video editor with just one tap-Flick, Rocket, Fade away and Orbit with transmission quality of 2.7K/30FPS, and superior anti-interference capabilities. 

For focusing, it consists of dual Autofocus & 90°Adjustable 4K HDR Camera for both quick and accurate focus. It also comes with a remote controller or Autel Sky App to adjust the angle of the gimbal with the range of -90º to 0º. 

Pros 

Cons 

➕ It consists of 3-way obstacle avoidance ➖Built with plastic 
➕ Can fly at a max altitude of 4,000 meters
➕ It consists of dual Autofocus & a 90°Adjustable 4K HDR Camera

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
Autel Robotics EVO Nano Plus Premium Bundle - 249g Mini Professional Drone with 4K RYYB HDR Camera,...
  • 【SUMMER ADVENTURE DISCOU-NT】Get Autel EVO Nano Plus Bundle at only 989 dolla-r (110 dolla-rs off) from 8/19 to 9/15.
  • 【<249G THE REAL POCKET DRONE, NO NEED REGISTRATION&NO GEOFENCING】Autel EVO Nano+ is the most mini one of all the Autel drones, weighs less than 249 grams, even less than an smartphone, with the...
  • 【THE RYYB TECHNOLOGY - TURN ON THE NIGHT】 The so called RYYB technology(FIRST and ONLY used in Autel EVO Nano+ & Autel EVO Lite) can increase 40% more light under the premise of same shooting...
  • 【FLY SAFE AND FREE, NANO+ GOT YOUR BACK】 Designed with 3-way obstacle avoidance (located on forward, backward and downward) , with binocular vision sensors for your safety flying even in...
  • 【ONE CLICK VLOG QUICK SHOTS & 10KM HD TRANSMISSION】The new Autel Sky APP helps you to be a professional video editor with just one tap(Flick, Rocket, Fade away and Orbit). Discover and create more...

 

Top Gear for Video Editing

 

12+ Best Drones for Incredible Footage in 2022

Ultimately, the best drones in 2022 are those that make it easier for you to capture the photos and footage you need. Whether 4k, 5k, or otherwise, there is a drone for every creative segment. it doesn’t matter if you’re a newbie or a pro, the more you get used to navigating these machines.

The more you get to understand what features and perks will matter to you the most as you progress in filmmaking. All that said, we hope our roundup has helped you streamline your search.

Keep artsy and stay creative!

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