A camera drone is a fun way to explore aerial imaging. Taking photos and making movies from high up in the air or flying a small drone through tight spaces nets a completely different look compared with a smartphone or a handheld camera. Drones can be intimidating if you're just starting out, so I'm here to help you get one that works. I've been reviewing drones for PCMag for 10 years now, and I've tried all kinds, but the DJI Flip is my top recommendation for beginners, thanks to its obstacle sensors and a reasonable starting price of $439. There are also good options if you're on a tighter budget, so read on for my top picks, all of which are lightweight enough to fly without FAA registration and include video cameras with smooth stabilization.
Overview
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![DJI Flip]()
Best Starter DroneDJI Flip
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![DJI Mini 4 Pro]()
Best Obstacle Avoidance in a 249g DroneDJI Mini 4 Pro
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![DJI Avata 360]()
Best 360-Degree Camera DroneDJI Avata 360
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![DJI Mini 3]()
Best for Vertical VideoDJI Mini 3
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![DJI Neo]()
Best Selfie DroneDJI Neo
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![Potensic Atom 2]()
Best for FAA-Certified PilotsPotensic Atom 2
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![DJI Flip]()
Best Starter DroneDJI Flip
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The DJI Flip is our top recommendation for beginners shopping for a drone. As a 249g drone, it does not require any FAA registration, and because it has built-in guards around its propellers, you can safely launch and land the drone in the palm of your hand. It supports voice commands and features a remote control for manual flight control. As for the camera, the Flip records video at up to 4K60 quality with 10-bit color and can snap stills at up to 48MP in Raw DNG or JPEG format. A three-axis gimbal keeps the footage smooth and stable, and the Flip's battery is rated for up to 31 minutes of flying time. Forward and downward obstacle sensors are included, too. The Flip may not have every feature we want to see in a drone (it doesn't include Remote ID or all-around obstacle sensors), but for the money, you won't find a better aerial camera.
Who It's For
Beginners: The Flip's integrated propeller guards and forward obstacle avoidance are good features for pilots buying their first drone. It includes a remote control in the box, allowing you to learn to fly manually, as well as automated flight modes and smartphone control for more casual use.
Selfie fans: This is a solid choice if you want a drone that flies itself, and we like that you can use voice commands or the smartphone app for quick selfie videos. It has a bunch of automated flight paths for selfie shots, including different orbit patterns and a couple of shots that start tight on a subject and pull back to show the surroundings.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions 3.1 by 11.0 by 9.2 inches Integrated Camera Integrated with Gimbal Live Video Feed 1080p Media Format Internal Media Format microSDXC Megapixels 48 Obstacle Detection Remote Dedicated with LCD Remote Smartphone/Tablet App Rotors 4 Video Resolution 4K Weight 8.8 Learn More DJI Flip Review -
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![DJI Mini 4 Pro]()
Best Obstacle Avoidance in a 249g DroneDJI Mini 4 Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is one of the most capable ultralight drones on the market. It weighs just 249g with its standard battery (good for around 34 minutes of flight time), so you don't have to register it with the FAA. Full 360-degree obstacle avoidance, automated flight modes, and a Quad Bayer camera with 4K60 HDR video round out the feature set. We especially like the APAS function, which helps the drone navigate through complex spaces all by itself, even at low altitudes.
It also gives you room to grow. If you add its extended life battery, the Mini 4 Pro gets Remote ID, which makes it suitable for certified pilots who make money from stock footage, a monetized YouTube channel, or real estate photography. If you're a beginner who wants room to grow, the Mini 4 Pro is an excellent choice.
Who It's For
Beginners: The Mini 4 Pro is easy and safe to fly, and light enough to avoid FAA registration requirements. Its camera is one of the best you'll find in a small drone and you'll be wowed by its stable 4K60 and photos. It's one of the few light drones to include a 360-degree obstacle avoidance system, so you can get started flying without worrying about crashing into a wall or tree.
Content Creators: YouTubers and TikTokers will appreciate the Mini 4 Pro's camera. It supports 4K60 video with 10-bit color, and has a Log profile so experts can apply creative color effects in the editing room. Its camera twists to record full-quality footage in either a widescreen or tall aspect ratio, so it's as useful for your YouTube channel as it is for your social accounts.
Professionals: The Mini 4 Pro gives beginners room to grow into professional, paid drone work. When used with its extended life battery, the drone broadcasts Remote ID, which is a strict requirement for pro work, so you won't have to buy a whole new drone when you're ready to graduate to the next level.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions 2.4 by 3.5 by 5.7 inches Integrated Camera Integrated with Gimbal Live Video Feed 1080p Media Format microSDXC Megapixels 48 Obstacle Detection Remote Dedicated with App Remote Dedicated with LCD Rotors 4 Video Resolution 4K Weight 8.8 Learn More DJI Mini 4 Pro Review -
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![DJI Avata 360]()
Best 360-Degree Camera DroneDJI Avata 360
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Avata 360 uses two lenses to capture a full 360-degree image, a feature that sets it apart from most other drones (or cameras, for that matter). It also has a single-lens mode so you can switch to a fixed view when you don't need all-around capture. The 360-degree camera system works with editing software that converts the spherical image into a video you can view on a standard screen, complete with pans, zooms, and Little Planet effects. The Avata is bundled with either a handheld remote with a built-in display or a headset with a one-handed motion controller, so make sure to pick the one that you're more comfortable flying.
Who It's For
Beginners: The Avata 360 is easy to fly thanks to its GPS stabilization and dual remote control options, and it handles wind without a problem, with built-in obstacle avoidance to help beginners avoid a costly collision. It weighs about a pound, though, so you'll need to register it with the FAA before sending it up into the air, but thankfully, the registration fee is only $5.
Creative editors: It can take a little effort to learn to edit 360-degree video if you haven't tried before, but once you get the hang of it, you'll appreciate the creative options the medium provides. If you've already used a 360-degree camera, you'll feel right at home, and DJI's software comes with a gentle learning curve.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions 2.2 by 7.8 by 9.7 inches Integrated Camera Integrated without Gimbal Live Video Feed 1080p Media Format Internal Media Format microSDXC Megapixels 120 Obstacle Detection Remote Dedicated with FPV Goggles Remote Dedicated with LCD Rotors 4 Video Resolution 8K Weight 1 Learn More DJI Avata 360 Review -
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![DJI Mini 3]()
Best for Vertical VideoDJI Mini 3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The DJI Mini 3 has a beginner-friendly takeoff weight of 249 grams and is priced around $400, both of which are in its favor. It provides excellent picture and video quality too; its 4K30 camera records smooth, steady footage with faithful color, and cleverly swaps between 16:9 widescreen and 9:16 vertical modes. The Mini 3 flies for up to 38 minutes with its standard battery, and can fly for 51 minutes with its heavier extended battery (sold separately).
There are some remote control options available. For $419, you can get the drone with a remote that requires you to connect your smartphone, but DJI also offers it with its built-in-screen RC remote for $549. If you're upgrading from a DJI Mini 2, you can use the DJI RC-N1 remote you already own to control the Mini 3; DJI sells the drone without a controller for $339.
Who It's For
Beginners: Out of the box, the Mini 3 weighs just 249g, so you won't have to worry about registering it with the FAA. It includes a remote control, allowing you to learn to fly manually, as well as autopilot features for precise orbits and reveals.
Social media mavens: The Mini 3's camera quickly switches between widescreen and vertical recording modes. This makes the drone a good choice for social media fans who want to share movies on widescreen platforms like YouTube and tall video apps like TikTok.
Professionals: When you add the extended life battery, the Mini 3 becomes a Remote ID-capable drone, allowing FAA-licensed individuals to use it for paid work, including inspections, real estate photography, and stock footage. If you aspire to be a pro drone pilot, the Mini 3 gives you room to grow.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions 2.4 by 3.5 by 5.7 inches Integrated Camera Integrated with Gimbal Live Video Feed 1080p Media Format microSDXC Megapixels 12 Remote Dedicated with App Remote Dedicated with LCD Rotors 4 Video Resolution 4K Weight 8.8 Learn More DJI Mini 3 Review -
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Credit: Jim Fisher
![DJI Neo]()
Best Selfie DroneDJI Neo
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Neo is DJI's smallest and lightest drone and among the easiest to use from any brand. It isn't much bigger than a soda can and weighs just 4.8 ounces (135g), so you don't have to deal with FAA registration. Built-in propeller guards protect your hands during palm launches and landings, preventing crashes caused by minor bumps and collisions. It features a nose-mounted 4K video camera that combines gimbal and digital stabilization to deliver smooth, high-quality footage.
Selfie fans will appreciate the Neo's ease of use and automated flight modes, which include pull back and reveal, orbit around a subject, and track and follow a subject as it moves. If you prefer manual flight, you can control it with a smartphone app or opt for a proper remote (sold separately for $129) featuring analog control sticks for a more rewarding tactile experience and extended range.
Even without a remote included, the Neo has some nice features for beginners. These include a strong battery that provides approximately 18 minutes of flight time per charge, along with the convenience of USB-C charging for quick top-offs between flights. You won't have to worry about a memory card either; the Neo has 22GB of storage built in, which is more than enough for 40 minutes of recording time.
Who It's For
Beginners: The DJI Neo is a compact, ultralight drone that doesn't require FAA registration to operate, and can take off and land in the palm of your hand. You can fly it with voice commands, on-drone controls, a smartphone app, or an optional remote control.
Selfie fans: If you want a drone that you can break out for a quick selfie and put back in your bag without having to deal with a bulky remote control, the Neo is it. You can use a smartphone app, on-body control buttons, or voice commands to start a selfie video.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions 1.9 by 5.1 by 6.2 inches Integrated Camera Integrated with Gimbal Live Video Feed 1080p Media Format Internal Megapixels 12 Remote Smartphone/Tablet App Rotors 4 Video Resolution 4K Weight 4.8 Learn More DJI Neo Review -
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![Potensic Atom 2]()
Best for FAA-Certified PilotsPotensic Atom 2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Potensic Atom 2 is an enticing drone for beginners. It makes the 249g takeoff weight, so registration isn't required, and it records clear, stable video at 4K30 quality. The camera also does 12MP Raw or JPG and 48MP JPG stills. The Atom 2 features a remote control that works with your smartphone and an app for flight control, and it can fly for up to 32 minutes on a fully charged battery.
Who It's For
Beginners: The Atom 2 weighs 249g, so there's no need to register it with the FAA. It also includes a remote control in the box, making it easy to get started flying. It offers the basic safety features we want in a drone, including GPS stabilization and a return-to-home feature, making it a good choice for your first drone.
Professionals: Although it's priced affordably, the Atom 2 includes Remote ID built-in, making it a fine choice for use if you are an FAA sUAS license holder. This means you can use it for paid work, such as real estate photography.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions 2.3 by 3.5 by 5.6 inches Integrated Camera Integrated with Gimbal Live Video Feed 1080p Media Format microSD Megapixels 48 Remote Dedicated with App Rotors 4 Video Resolution 4K Weight 8.8 Learn More Potensic Atom 2 Review -
Compare Specs
Our Pick | |||||||||
Rating |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
3.5 Good |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
Best For | Best Starter Drone | Best Obstacle Avoidance in a 249g Drone | Best 360-Degree Camera Drone | Best for Vertical Video | Best Selfie Drone | Best for FAA-Certified Pilots | Best Starter Drone | Best Obstacle Avoidance in a 249g Drone | Best 360-Degree Camera Drone |
Dimensions | 3.1 by 11.0 by 9.2 inches | 2.4 by 3.5 by 5.7 inches | 2.2 by 7.8 by 9.7 inches | 2.4 by 3.5 by 5.7 inches | 1.9 by 5.1 by 6.2 inches | 2.3 by 3.5 by 5.6 inches | 3.1 by 11.0 by 9.2 inches | 2.4 by 3.5 by 5.7 inches | 2.2 by 7.8 by 9.7 inches |
Weight | 8.8 | 8.8 | 1 | 8.8 | 4.8 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 1 |
Rotors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Obstacle Detection | |||||||||
Integrated Camera | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated without Gimbal | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated with Gimbal | Integrated without Gimbal |
Video Resolution | 4K | 4K | 8K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 8K |
Megapixels | 48 | 48 | 120 | 12 | 12 | 48 | 48 | 48 | 120 |
Media Format | Internal, microSDXC | microSDXC | Internal, microSDXC | microSDXC | Internal | microSD | Internal, microSDXC | microSDXC | Internal, microSDXC |
Remote | Smartphone/Tablet App, Dedicated with LCD | Dedicated with App, Dedicated with LCD | Dedicated with LCD, Dedicated with FPV Goggles | Dedicated with App, Dedicated with LCD | Smartphone/Tablet App | Dedicated with App | Smartphone/Tablet App, Dedicated with LCD | Dedicated with App, Dedicated with LCD | Dedicated with LCD, Dedicated with FPV Goggles |
Live Video Feed | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p |
Buying Guide: The Best Drones for Beginners and Kids in 2026
Are Camera Drones Banned in the US?
Yes and no. The FCC added all foreign-made drones to its Covered List last December, on a going-forward basis. This means that drones that have already been certified are still allowed to be used, sold, and imported, but it closes the door on drones that haven't yet gone through the FCC approval process. That means that there are still plenty of good drones on the market, at least for now. If you want to learn more, take time to read our FAQ.
What Is the Best Drone to Buy for a Beginner?
Drones are pretty complicated pieces of hardware. They rely on GPS stabilization and other flight assistance systems to hover perfectly in place, as well as radio transmitters to maintain a connection between the aircraft and its remote control. They usually require a smartphone to work; typically, you connect your phone to the drone's remote control to run a flight app and control the camera. If you're willing to spend more, you can get one with a remote that runs the control app on a touch screen.
We recommend sticking to a quality brand to get started—we've included models from DJI and Potensic, both of which are trustworthy brands. We've had bad luck with some of the lesser-known budget models you see for sale online, so we don't recommend spending money on shoddy starters like the Holy Stone HS360.
It's worth spending a little more on a drone with a better camera, one that supports higher-than-1080p video and features a gimbal for enhanced stabilization. You should also pick a drone with an integrated GPS and a return-to-home system. Finally, if you can afford to spend a bit, an upscale model with obstacle avoidance sensors helps you avoid accidents while you learn to fly.
The Best Drones That Don't Require FAA Registration
Pilots flying in the US, even for fun, must register certain drones with the FAA. If you plan to fly outside and your drone weighs 250g (8.8 ounces) or more, you must pay a $5 registration fee to ensure compliance with federal regulations. Moreover, you must pass the Trust test, a basic online knowledge quiz. For more, read up on the rules for flying drones in the US.
Are Kids Allowed to Fly Drones?
Can kids legally fly a drone? The short answer is yes, but it depends on the operator's age, the purpose of the flight, and the country.
There's no minimum age to fly a drone in the US, but you must be at least 13 years old to register with the FAA. The drones in this story are all in the registration-free 249g weight class. However, all pilots must still pass the Trust test, a free basic knowledge quiz, to fly a drone outdoors. For heavier drones, the Trust test and a $5 registration fee are mandatory for all users.
Recommended by Our Editors
These restrictions are fairly lax, but only apply to creators flying for personal enjoyment. If you're a young YouTube influencer and monetize your drone footage, you must fly under commercial rules and register each drone you own, regardless of weight. That means you must have a Part 107 license or fly under the direct supervision of a licensed pilot. The minimum age to get a Part 107 license is 16 years old.
Canada is stricter with its laws. You can fly a 249g drone without a license in uncontrolled airspace north of the border, but you need a Basic License to fly within about 100 feet (30 meters) of other people. You must be at least 14 years old to get this type of license. If you want to fly in controlled airspace, an Advanced License is a requirement. You must be 16 years or older to get one.
The UK regulations are muddier. First, each drone you own requires an Operator ID, a registration number that's tied to the aircraft and owner. You must be at least 18 years old to receive one. The UK also issues Flyer IDs, a type of license that's tied to a person, not an aircraft. Kids don't need a Flyer ID for models lighter than 249g, but must pass a basic knowledge test for anything heavier (there's no strict age requirement). Children 13 and up can obtain a Flyer ID on their own, while younger children must bring a guardian to take the test.
How Much Does a Beginner Drone Cost?
For quality video, we recommend budgeting between $200 and $1,000. On the low end of the price spectrum, the DJI Neo ($199) is ideal for selfies, as it features automated pull-back-and-reveal and orbit flight paths, and is compact enough to take off and land in the palm of your hand. You can also fly it manually with your phone, or purchase a remote (an additional $129) for a more refined experience.
You can spend a little more and get the Potensic Atom 2 ($299), which includes a remote in the box. It records 4K30 video and snaps 48MP stills. For $439, the DJI Flip represents an even larger leap forward in camera quality. It is also 4K, utilizing newer sensor technology for more natural-looking images and HDR video, and supports voice commands.
Most of the drones featured in this buying guide weigh 249g or less, so they don't require FAA registration. Beginner pilots don't have to worry about the Remote ID feature, which is a required feature for licensed pilots. If you are considering obtaining your FAA license in the future, choosing a light drone with Remote ID, such as the Potensic Atom 2, is a good idea. The DJI Mini 3 also supports Remote ID, but only when used with an optional extended life battery.
The Best Drones for Pros
If you're looking for a drone that's a bit better than a beginner bird, make sure to check out our list of the best drones you can buy, regardless of skill level. Just prepare to spend a lot more.