Erin
Looking for a mini drone that’s as big as your hand? Or would you prefer a micro or nano drone that you can fit in your pocket? With the huge range of the choice now out there, it would be incredibly frustrating to buy a micro drone that doesn’t really give you a bang for your buck.
The first thing to consider when buying a mini quadcopter is what you need it for. Do you want a camera, or is it just for play? Then, assess whether the size, weight, or capability match your requirements.
We’ll give you the lowdown on all the features to look out for on models listed on Amazon. Keep these best-selling micro drones in mind to help you make a more informed purchase – and don’t forget to check with the FAA in the US in case your small drone needs registering.
Here are our top 10 mini drones and micro drones listed on Amazon.
10 Best Mini Drones:
- DJI Spark Mini
- Potensic A20 Mini Drone
- Syma X11 Mini Drone
- Hubsan X4 H107L Mini Drone
- Cheerwing Syma X20 Mini Drone
- Holy Stone HS170 Mini Drone
- Cheerson CX-10 Mini Drone
- Rabing Mini FPV
- Eachine E10C Mini Quadcopter
- Tello Quadcopter
Micro Drone Reviews
DJI Spark Mini
This Spark Mini Drone takes off and hovers in place seconds after being powered on. It takes stunning aerial photographs without a remote controller or mobile device, using only hand gestures. The Spark Mini Drone is one of the best camera drones as well. Its Intelligent Flight Modes and intuitive controls let you create aerial videos that are cinematic in scope in just a few taps. It has a maximum flight time of 16 minutes and a top speed of 50 km per hour.
Product Specifications:
- Weight: 1 pound
- 12 x 6 x 12 inches
- Takeoff weight 300 g
- Video ISO range of 100-3200
- Transmission frequency of 2.4 GHz
- 3D sensing system
- Lithium metal batteries required
- Transmissions range of 100 m
- Contact the seller directly for warranty information
Pros:
- Hand gestures operate front camera and object detection
- Small enough to carry around easily
- Mechanically stabilizes 2 axis of movement for smoother video
- Adjustable camera angle while flying
- 12 MP camera for high-quality photos
- GPS/GLONASS satellite positioning enhances flight stability
Cons:
- Records 1080p video only
- Limited flight hover time
- Limited lifespan for battery
- May be better suited as a racing or selfie drone
The Bottom Line:
Packed with features, this mini drone with camera is a solid performer in both flight and video. With a top speed of 31 mph in its Sport mode, the DJI Spark Mini can fly up to 1.2 miles away with a controller. Boosted by GPS and flight sensors, its intelligent flying lowers the risk of accidents. Meanwhile, with its two-axis gimbal, you can be assured of smooth, high-quality video.
[amazon box=”B072JTDRTZ”]
Potensic A20 Mini Drone
This micro drone is an ideal kids drone or for those just starting out flying drones. Its three adjustable speed levels, plus Altitude Hold, Headless Mode, and One-Key Taking-Off/Landing make the Potensic A20 a stable flyer and easy to control. Using the Remote Controller, you can fly the mini drone in any direction. Extremely portable, the Potensic A20 is the width of an iPhone 5.
Product Specifications:
- 2.4G remote control
- 3.5 x 3.1 x 1.25 inches
- 6.7 ounces
- 3 Lithium Metal batteries included
- 2 extra rechargeable batteries
- 1 USB charger
- 12 month warranty
- No need to register FAA in the US
Pros:
- Propeller guards protect against collisions so ideal for kids playing
- Emergency Stop function for instant landing
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Flight time up to 12 minutes with rechargeable batteries
- Spare pair of propellers
Cons:
- Most suitable for beginners and children
- No GPS
- No camera
The Bottom Line:
The perfect mini drone for kids, or for beginner pilots. With its Altitude Hold function, this mini drone is a safe, stable flyer indoors and out. Its one-key function for take-off and landing and Remote Controller make it super easy to control and fly in any direction.
[amazon box=”B077N3CXZY”]
Syma X11 Mini Drone
Another great starter drone for the little and big kids in your life, the Syma X11 comes with a 6 axis gyro direction stabilizer and 3D lock for more precise flight. With 360 degree eversion, you can continuously roll this micro quadcopter in the air – perfect performing flips and other aerial tricks.
Product Specifications:
- 10 x 10 x 10 inches
- 12.6 ounces
- 4 channel frequency 2.4 GHz
- 2 MP HD camera
- 1 USB charging cable
- 4 spare propellers
- 1 blade protector
- 1 Lithium battery
- Contact the seller directly for warranty information
- Check with the FAA about registration
Pros:
- The 2 MP HD camera lets you take videos and photos while flying
- Blade protector enhances flight safety
- Flashing color lights for night and day flights outdoors and in
- 6-8 minute flight time
Cons:
- Video can’t be viewed in real-time as downloaded onto micro SD card
- Charging time 40-50 minutes
The Bottom Line:
Easy to fly and able to withstand minor gusts of wind, the Syma X11 small drone with camera is a stable little flyer with the added bonus of capturing photos and videos. Ideal if you’re starting out or want to introduce your kids to a small drone, the Syma X11 is easy to control.
[amazon box=”B00VJ014NC”]
Hubsan X4 H107L Mini Drone
With its 6-axis flight control system and lightweight airframe, the Hubsan X4 H107L is an upgraded, LED version of the H107. This micro drone comes in a Royal Blue finish. It’s lightweight enough for indoor flight, but can handle the outdoors, helped by the quad-rotor thrust and LiPo battery which recharges quickly.
Product Specifications:
- 3 x 3 x 1 inches
- 1.05 pounds
- 2.4 Ghz transmitter with LCD Screen
- Hubsan X4 Quadcopter– Royal Blue
- 3.7v 240 mah battery
- Blade Protection Guard
- USB Charger
- Set of extra blades (2 white & 2 blue)
- Hubsan Wrench
- Contact the seller directly for warranty information
- Check with the FAA about registration
Pros:
- Easy to perform aerial tricks with high thrust, responsive controls, and low weight
- Normal and Expert mode
- Directional control for more advanced pilots
- 100-meter range
- Flight time 6-8 minutes
Cons:
- Recharge time 30-45 minutes
- Only suitable for light winds outdoors
The Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for a super-fast, light miniature drone, then the X4 could be the one for you. Its Expert Mode is the one go to for if you’re keen on aerial stunts, but bear in mind that this mini quadcopter then becomes even more responsive and nimble. The Propeller Guards are a handy way to keep it safer from collisions if you’re still learning the ropes.
[amazon box=”B00LCLKAE2″]
Cheerwing Syma X20 Mini Drone
One of the smallest models by Syma, this quadcopter makes a great mini drone for use indoors by your kids or beginners. The propeller guards and battery are built in, so there’s no detachable battery or parts. Very responsive when in flight, the Syma X20 can perform 3D flips, using the small round radio controller with controls that slide in all directions. Other handy features include Return to Home and Altitude Hold.
Product Specifications:
- 4.1 x 4.1 x 1 inches
- Built-in Drone Battery 3.7V 180mAh Li-Po battery
- 4 AAA batteries required but not included for controller
- Flight time 5 minutes
- Control distance 50 meters
- Contact the seller directly for warranty information
Pros:
- Small Propeller Guards that don’t affect flight
- One Key Take-Off and Landing allows easy operation for beginners
- One Touch Down function enables slow landing when battery is low
- 360-degree eversion for continuous rolls
- LED lights for night flights
Cons:
- No camera
- Short flight time
The Bottom Line:
A highly affordable mini drone for both big and little kids who want something nimble indoors. As the battery isn’t detachable, you may have to wait up to 50 minutes for the battery to recharge, however. If you prefer control sticks, you may find the small, round radio controller takes a while to get used to.
[amazon box=”B06WGVP9FG”]
Holy Stone HS170 Mini Drone
Perfect for beginner flyers, the Holy Stone HS170 can perform stunts and looks good, too. This agile mini drone is easy to control, and can perform aerial flips, but doesn’t come with a camera. With a tough, durable design, it features curved propeller guards to guard against ceiling impact and landing feet for protection against rough landings.
Product Specifications:
- 13.5 x 4 x 13.5 inches
- 13.6 ounces
- 1 Quadcopter
- 2.4G Remote controller (AA batteries not included)
- 3.7V 350mAh Li-ion battery
- 4 Additional blades
- 1 USB charger
- 1 Screwdriver and 1 Propeller crowbar
- Contact the seller directly for warranty information
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Durable build quality
- Three flight modes for beginners and more advanced fliers
- Handy replacement blades
- Headless mode helps first-time fliers get to grips with the controls
Cons:
- Potentially low battery life
- Short range at 50 meters
The Bottom Line:
A great mini drone for both inside and out, the 6-axis Gyro Technology lets the HS170 flip and roll at the touch of a button. This quadcopter has powerful, responsive motors for an average flight time of 8 minutes. As it weighs less than 0.55 lb, you won’t need to register it with the FAA.
[amazon box=”B0157IHJMQ”]
Cheerson CX-10 Mini Drone
Easy to spot in bright orange, you just throw this 4 channel mini rolling quadcopter in the air to fly. It also hovers, does flips and side flights, with an average flight time of up to 4 minutes. With a 0.3 MP camera, you can take both photos and videos. The handy low voltage alarm warns you when it’s time to land if the battery is nearly dead.
Product Specifications:
- 5.9 x 3 x 3 inches
- 4.7 ounces
- CX-10 Mini Quadcopter
- 4CH Mini Radio Controller (Model 2)
- 4 Spare Propellers
- 1 USB Battery Charger
- 2 AAA batteries needed but not included for the transmitter
Pros:
- 6 axis gyro flight stabilization system
- Battery protection ensures in a crash the battery is undamaged
- Charging time 30 minutes
- LED lights for night flights
- Nimble and durable
Cons:
- Battery for transmitter not included
The Bottom Line:
Affordable and fun to use, this mini drone has a transmission range of up to 30 meters. Easy to learn, this is one of the best micro drones for both learners and more proficient flyers.
[amazon box=”B01ARMPEC4″]
Rabing Mini FPV
With all of the parts protected by a net cage, this mini drone is durable and more resistant to collisions. It can be controlled easily, thanks to a 6-axis flight control system, and its 3D-flip function together with headless mode make the Rabing Mini FPV plenty of fun.
Product Specifications:
- 23.8 g
- 79 x 65 x 25 mm
- 2 AAA batteries required but not included for remote controller
- Battery for quadcopter: 3.7V 240mAh li-po battery (built-in)
- 4 CH
- Controller: 2.4GHz mode 2
Pros:
- 2.4 GHz remote control technology enables more precise control
- One-key Return Function so the drone can find its way home easily
- Pneumatic positioning for accurate, steady hovering
- Real-time image transmission
- Intelligent control via WIFI Mobile phone app
- High-quality camera
Cons:
- Battery for remote control not included
- Flight time approximately 8 minutes
The Bottom Line:
With a charger that plugs directly into this mini drone, this is perfect for beginners as it’s very easy to learn. The durable frame is useful for protecting the propellers. Expect huge amounts of fun with this tiny drone.
[amazon box=”B07NPNJ1VC”]
Eachine E10C Mini Quadcopter
This boasts impressive performance despite its size. This nano drone with camera is easy to control indoors and its flight is very stable. Switch to the fast rate when flying outdoors, particularly when it’s windy. The controls are accessible even for adult-sized hands.
Product Specifications:
- 60 x 60 x 28 mm
- 15 g
- Battery for quadcopter: 3.7V 150mah
- 2 x AA battery for transmitter required but not included
- Camera: 2MP 720P
Pros:
- Durable design
- Dual speed rates for high and low speed fun
- 360 degree rolling allows aerial feats
- 2.0 MP HD camera for aerial photos and videos
- LED lights for night flights and for low battery alert
- Charging time approximately 40 to 50 minutes
Cons:
- SC card not included
- Flight time 5 to 6 minutes
- Flight distance approximately 20 meters
The Bottom Line:
A cool-looking mini drone which is perfect for flying indoors, with 3D flips and rolls at the touch of a button. Outdoors, it has limited tolerance of wind. The battery is swappable, so keep a few extra batteries spare in case it runs low.
[amazon box=”B07DQC1323″]
Tello Quadcopter
Another throw-and-go model, the Tello Quadcopter features a 5 MP camera that records JPEG photos and 720p MP4 video. With its Bounce mode, the Tello flies up and down automatically from your hand. Take off and landing is easy, with one single tap.
Product Specifications:
- 3.9 x 3.7 x 1.6 inches
- 2.88 ounces
- 1 Lithium polymer battery included
Pros:
- DJI Flight technology for stable flights
- Smartphone VR headset compatibility gives precise control
- Slide on screen to perform 8D flips
- Vision positioning system for precise hovering
- Intel processor produces high-quality footage
- Average flight time 13 minutes
Cons:
- Charging time approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
The Bottom Line:
Well-built, powerful, the Tello is fun to fly and can take high-resolution pictures, too. For more advanced users, the Tello is programmable with Scratch, a coding system developed by MIT so your kids or teens learn the basics of programming. It can fly up to 10 m vertically and has an impressive range of 100 m. An inexpensive beginners drone.
[amazon box=”B07BDHJJTH”]
Buyers Guide – What To Look For When Buying Mini Quadcopters
Micro drones are the smallest and most accessible of the drone family if you’re a newbie. Consider these factors when you’re about to part with your hard-earned cash.
Features
With so many factors to consider, we’ve distilled the main points to look for when buying your done…
Size:
The compact size of both the quadcopter and controller are important to consider if you want to take them outside. With its smaller size, if a micro drone crashes, the damage is less, due to its reduced overall mass.
Battery Life:
Look out for those with rechargeable batteries and a USB cable. You may want to buy some extra batteries to take out with you to boost flying time.
Internal Gyroscopes:
Other features to consider are internal gyroscopes to stabilize flight – this especially helps if you want to fly outside.
Propeller Guards:
These will protect the micro drone from banging against furniture when flying indoors, or trees and foliage outdoors. This is also a good feature if you’re using the drone with children: propeller guards will prevent them from injuring themselves or anyone else if they lose control of the device.
Skill Level
If you’re just starting out, it’s recommended that you opt for a cheaper drone that’s easier to operate, and in case of collisions. For those with more flying experience, go for a more advanced model.
Purpose
Perhaps you want to take stunning aerial photography or videos. Or maybe you want to race your friends, or the children in your life, indoors and outdoors. Once you’re clear on why you’re looking for a macro drone, you can narrow down your search.
Cheaper models will have fewer features, while the more expensive drones will have cool benefits such as GPS sensors to automatically set location coordinates. The choice is yours.
Final Thoughts on Micro Drones
Because mini drones are so popular with kids, it’s important to choose one that’s child-friendly if you plan on giving one to someone under the age of about 16. Bear in mind that piloting a drone takes skill, and dropping $150 on a device for your child to destroy within 10 minutes won’t please anyone! Cheaper drone models without complex functions are best here, like the Eachine E10C or Cheerson CX-10 Mini.
If you’re after a steady-flying drone with a great camera for adults only, the pricey (but worth it) DJI Spark Portable Mini, or the stylish Tello Quadcopter with VR headset connectivity, is perfect for you.
We hope this guide has narrowed down your search for the best nano drone for you. Keep these details in mind when you head to Amazon to make your purchase!
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