Our Top-Rated RC Drones For 2018
A quadcopter, a helicopter with four rotors that are unmanned, is an excellent entertainment accessory, conversational piece and often a superb example of modern innovation in photography equipment. There are a huge range of selections on the market for quadcopters ranging in size, capabilities, weight and features. Many are targeted to the experience level of pilots, and the price range of the aircraft also vary greatly.
Depending on the quadcopter you desire, we have reviewed ten of the most popular options currently available bringing you an independent assessment of the features and benefits of each to help you make the right choice before making a purchase.
1.DJI Phantom 3 Quadcopter
What We Like:
The DJI Phantom 3 Quadcopter is as technologically impressive as it is aesthetically pleasing. Pilots of all abilities can benefit from the model’s exceptional locational tracking, which recognizes the position of the pilot at all times of flight. The amazing bird hovers with precision, focussed and direct in movements and locks onto satellites quickly. With the availability to connect with GLONASS, pilots will benefit from at least 36 satellites around the world at any time. Linking the aircraft to the DJI Go app, pilots are also encouraged to track locations and flights on a live map, record takeoff points and share flight information. What is more, the Phantom 3 automatically logs and maintains a memory of every flight taken, storing details such as locations, flight times, routes and distances. This information can be coupled with cached versions of any images and videos taken during the flight.
The engineering included in the Phantom 3’s braking is second to none, with powerful air brakes enabling immediate stops. Brushless motors work with exceptional speed ESCs to ensure that pilots enjoy agility, swiftness, and responsiveness from their aircraft. Indeed, this makes for a unique, exhilarating and memorable flight experience.
What We Don’t Like:
In some instances, the landing gear can be visible in the images produced, and so, there is room for design rectification which would make this an astounding model than it is now.
The Takeaway:
An amazing quadcopter with super easy setup and sleek design. Ranked at #1 due to the agility, speed, reliability and exceptional levels of responsiveness of the model. The superior GPS capabilities and flight recording abilities make it a superb choice.
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2. Yuneec Q500 4K
What We Like:
Yuneec is popular for their superior customer service and commitment to support and high-quality products, and the Q500 4K serves to demonstrate all of the benefits of the company. With swift and quiet motion, the Yuneec is a discreet aircraft that is towards the higher budget range. Designed ergonomically and with the user in mind, the easy to fly drone features a handheld Steady Grip for securing high-quality video footage. The included Personal Ground Station boasts an in-built touch screen, ensuring ease of use and modernity not regularly seen in alternative options.
The Integrated 3-axis precision gimbal camera guarantees crisp, clear and reliable images through a 4K/30fps ultra high definition videos. As an additional benefit, users can utilize the 1080p/120fps slow motion video, producing exceptional footage of the world below. Those who enjoy editing images are sure to be impressed with the Q500 4K’s features which include white balance and light exposure, a non-distortion lens, and user controlled video resolution.
What We Don’t Like:
The Q500 4K is somewhat sluggish when in the air and although its flight is flawless, the lack of speed does make it a less enjoyable experience.
The Takeaway:
A much more stable platform and the pictures captured and videos are magnificent and so vivid in color. Ranked at #2 to reflect the impeccable design, superb range of features, secure and smooth journey and overall high quality.
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3. Dromida Verso
What We Like:
The durable, lightweight and aesthetically pleasing drone that is the Dromida Version is capable of multiple features designed to excite and enhance user satisfaction. The Version is able to take off, swiftly and smoothly travel, and land inverted due to the innovative design which includes reversing motors. The Verso is capable of quickly switching between inverted and regular through pushing the Invert/Flip button, meaning the user maintains ease of control for every flight. The engineering of this product is superb and once inverted the impressive flight assistance technology serves to end any confusing control reversal concerns. The Verso offers three selectable flight modes and offers guaranteed durability, so clumsy mistakes need not be catastrophic. The built in LED lights aim to maximize the user’s navigational skills and mean that enjoyment can be had both day and night. Fun is further enhanced with this model through the inclusion of a joystick remote control. This quirky feature offers game-like pilot capabilities and offers another dimension of fun to use. Users are also supported in the manufacturer’s exceptional commitment to thorough customer support. There’s no worry about ‘batteries not included’ with Dromida, and users with concerns or queries have multiple contact options for the manufacturer.
What We Don’t Like:
This great little copter is not an ideal option for those with moderate to high skill level. It is a prime example of a drone suitable for beginners who want to increase their skills and experience and monitor their abilities.
The Takeaway:
Altogether, the Dromida Version is a super aircraft for beginners and those looking to enhance their experience without compromising on style and fun. Ranked at #3 to reflect impressive levels of customer support, the commitment to fun of use, additional accessories and superb suitability for those with minimal experience levels.
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4. DJI T600 Inspire 1 Quadcopter
What We Like:
The features and exquisite design immediately demonstrate the superiority of this model. Running off lithium metal batteries, this powerful aircraft epitomizes DJI’s impressive technological developments and cement a sleek and modern design. The innovative engineering of the quadcopter is second to none, with sturdy carbon fiber arms that allow for a clear and unrestricted 360° view, promising the highest standard images. The ability to integrate the aircraft’s photosystems with mobile devices means that the user can control the craft from their phone or tablet. The Inspire 1 camera offers users a real-time feed with exceptional clarity in 720p HD on mobile devices. The Inspire 1 gimbal camera can be removed from the quadcopter to enable easy and safe transportation and offer the user security for future upgrades.
What We Don’t Like:
The DJI T600 Inspire 1 Quadcopter is one of the most expensive options and so for budget conscious customers, this is likely to be an out of price range model. Also, DJI has a terrible customer support especially when you call for repairs.
The Takeaway:
An extremely stable drone that is well-engineered, refined and sophisticated. Ranked at #4 due to the excellent connectivity options, exceptional camera quality, and first-rate viewing capabilities though much more expensive to alternative options.
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5. Hubsan X4 H107L
What We Like:
Those looking to purchase a reliable and budget conscious quadcopter are sure to be impressed by the offerings of the Hubsan X4 H107L. The aircraft boasts of a 6-axis flight control system with adjustable gyro sensitivity. As a lightweight drone example, it’s perhaps one of the best offerings for those new to the hobby or those keen to purchase a simple, sleek and reliable craft. The aircraft benefits from LED Lights and also equipped with a Blade Protection Guard. The Hubsan X4 H107L features a 2.4 GHz Transmitter with LCD screen enabling a clear capture of images. The lightweight frame lends itself perfectly to smooth motion, and the impressive durability means that the user can be assured of a sturdy purchase. Offering two flight modes, either normal or expert, beginners can afford the opportunity to progress their skills and experience with this craft. For users who are limited by budget or uncertain of their commitment, this would be a superb purchase. The X4 H107L offers the ability to gain experience, test skills, and cement enjoyment without requiring an excessive investment. Users need not worry about poor quality to the price; it promises a host of features despite being cost-conscious.
What We Don’t Like:
The propellers of this little quad are somewhat flimsy. The model does come with additional propellers as it is a low budget model, but in honesty, it is not the sturdiest example, and so consumers should be aware that additional purchases may be necessary.
The Takeaway:
Overall, the Hubsan X4 H107L is a sound model and a superb choice for beginners. Ranked at #5 to reflect the exceptional value for money, host of features and suitability to all experience levels and abilities.
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6. Syma X8C Venture
What We Like:
The Syma XBC Venture is a prime example of a drone that is capable of offering countless features for a minimal price. As an inexpensive model, it allows users to gain a wealth of experience and enjoyment without compromising on technological offerings. The XBC Venture benefits from highly developed design including an Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) system. That said, whereas in the majority of other drones, the forward direction is no different to the nose direction; the XBC Venture’s IOC offers forward direction with no connection to the nose direction. This innovative feature decreases the complexities of use, encourages the pilot to learn quickly and promotes a sound understanding of the quadcopter maneuverability and orienteering possibilities. Moreover, the XBC Venture has a 6-axis flight control system, referred to as 6 AXIS GYRO and a 3D lock which enables pilots to smoothly navigate in a host of environments with ease and steadiness. The drone 2MP HD Camera offers clear and high-quality images from an aerial perspective not forgetting the flashing colorful lights that can be used to attract the attention of children, friends, and even pets – making for some unique images no matter the time of day or night.
What We Don’t Like:
The Syma XBC Venture drone is somewhat sluggish, and so the enjoyment is slightly limited. That said, this is a cheap example and designed to be a toy and as such, i is a nominal shortcoming that does not significantly upset the use.
The Takeaway:
An excellent drone, easy and fun to fly, the Syma XBC Venture offers exceptional value for money for those on a low budget, those looking for a reliable and innovative ‘toy’ that will give fun to all the family and those hoping to gain inexperienced with an inexpensive product. Ranked at #6 due to the ability for users to benefit from steadiness, reliability and innovative features as well as being highly cost effective and budget-conscious.
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7. Eachine 250 FPV
What We Like:
One of the most aesthetically impressive and powerful looking examples of a drone, the Eachine 250 FPV falls into the lower end of the mid-budget scale. The initial benefit of this hobby-grade copter is its dramatic and compelling images, but its technological capabilities are not to be sniffed at. The Eachine 250 FPV offers pilots a long distance remote control, enabling them to take images farther away and over difficult to access areas. The controls are highly sensitive meaning that commands are quickly responded to and with real time image transmission, pilots can be sure that they are achieving the images they require thanks to the HD camera that offers impressive quality and excellent focus. The carbon-fiber build allows for lightweight use, and the innovative anti-fall technology serves to protect and enhance usability. This model is downright stunning, offers a decent level of features and is reasonably priced.
What We Don’t Like:
What the Eachine 250 FP offers is design, but bearably lacks in function. Alternative products are capable of more for less cost and what the Eachine 250 FPV offers in aesthetics, it arguably lacks in strength and features.
The Takeaway:
Definitely a super fun bird with a lot of power. Ranked at #7 to reflect the model’s durability, ease of use, lightweight design yet the price and lacking features prevent this from featuring higher.
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8. XK 251 Brushless Quadcopter
What We Like:
The distinctive appearance of the XK 251 Brushless Quadcopter makes it one of the most aesthetically outstanding models. A low-cost option for those seeking a drone with power, the XK 251 is agile, stable with excellent flight abilities. The model benefits from a brushless motor giving it a strong power and allows for smooth travel. Interestingly, the speed capability of the XK 251 Brushless Quadcopter is awesome as it can move up to 21m/s. We also like the impressive engineering of this drone not forgetting the 3K carbon fiber arm along with impressive landing gear. The aircraft also features a 6-axis gyro which increases its stability in air and offers greater ease of use. The XK 251 can be mounted 5.8GHz 720P HD miniature camera, video allowing for real-time image transmission to add another dimension to the fun of the machine. Night-time flights are just as entertaining as the XK 251 boasts highlight LED lights which are dazzling for evening flights.
What We Don’t Like:
Unfortunately, the XK 251 Brushless Quadcopter uses the small size brushless motors of 1307 which doesn’t have the power to fly if fast and hard. If it could have been upgraded to 1806 motor, then we would be having a beast of a drone.
The Takeaway:
The XK 251 Brushless Quadcopter is a basic drone that offers users the opportunity to experience flying and controlling an aircraft, but lacks features and benefits readily achieved in other examples. Ranked at #8 to reflect the nighttime capabilities of the model but reflective of the need to mount a camera to the craft to provide images.
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9. JJRC X1
What We Like:
The JJRC X1 is a high performing and entertaining quad to add to any enthusiast’s collection. Its movement is incredibly swift and responsive to the pilot’s command, making it a reliable and exhilarating experience. The model benefits from a large 7.4V 1300mA capacity battery which enables excellent power levels and provides a superior 15mins long flight time. The frame of this agile aircraft is very lightweight which adds to its speed abilities and ease of transportation to take-off sites. The JJRC X1 has 6-axis gyro which encourages a more stable flying experience and ensures that pilots do not need to negotiate complicated flight controls.
What We Don’t Like:
The JJRC X1 is targeted towards beginners or those with little desire to engage in complexities or challenges. The JJRC X1 has limited capabilities and is not an especially exciting model.
The Takeaway:
Priced very reasonably in the mid-range, this is a superb aircraft for those looking to leisurely fly and enhance their experiences. An ideal progressive model for those who have flown more basic drones or aircrafts with minimal speeds. Ranked at #9 to reflect the limited features but suitability for those looking to improve their abilities or experience levels.
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10. HiSky HMX280
What We Like:
The craft benefits from 1300kv Brushless Motor Propeller and boasts of a CC3D flight controller and ESC which are customized, making it different from similar products on the market. The HuSky HMX280 is suitable for pilots over the age of 14, though its questionable durability may render it unsuitable for younger users.
What We Don’t Like:
First, the HuSky HMX280 is not a waterproof aircraft, and this immediately limits its flying capabilities. Also, based on the price, it is somewhat disappointing considering numerous features are lacking. The quadcopter comes disassembled, and so self-assembly is required – and even though it’s a simple task, it could be regarded as an inconvenience to some but also an ideal lesson for amateurs or beginners. Furthermore, it flies without a camera therefore not recommended for those seeking images of the world below. With a fair design and reasonable aesthetics, this is an acceptable standard, though not overly exciting.
The Takeaway:
HuSky HMX280 is overall a disappointing model and there are several alternative options within the same budget that offer greater features. Ranked at #10 to reflect the shortcomings in durability, need for user assembly and basic design.
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