How to choose a drone
Updated October 2026
Most buying mistakes come from paying for features you will not use, or skipping the one feature that prevents crashes. Make these five decisions in order.
1. Under or over 250 grams?
Under 250 g means no FAA registration for fun flying, easier travel and lower crash damage. Heavier drones handle wind better and carry bigger cameras. For a first drone, stay under 250 g.
2. Set a realistic budget
- Under $300: GPS, return-to-home, 4K on the best models. See picks.
- $300–$500: bigger sensors and longer flights. See picks.
- $500–$1,000: obstacle sensing and subject tracking.
- $1,000+: 1-inch or larger sensors for footage you can sell.
Budget another $100–$200 for extra batteries; a Fly More bundle usually saves money.
3. Gimbal or no gimbal
A 3-axis mechanical gimbal is what makes footage smooth. Skip drones without one if you care about video.
4. Obstacle sensing
It is the feature that prevents the most crashes, especially when the drone follows you. Omnidirectional sensing is best; none at all is fine only in open fields. Best drones with obstacle avoidance.
5. Flight time
Expect 75–80% of the advertised time. Anything above 30 advertised minutes is comfortable for most flights.
Also check: US availability
New DJI models are no longer approved for US sale. Stick to models that are already authorized — here is why.