Low-Cost Drones

The following options are suitable for users who want to begin flying without a large investment. These drones do not include mapping software or research-grade sensors.

Important

There are no low-cost drones that are US-made or NDAA compliant. Please refer to NDAA-Compliant Drones.

• Mini 4 Pro — DJI’s compact, affordable line. At 249g, it is well suited as a flight trainer and for casual media use. The current model is the Mini 4 Pro; the earlier Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro remain viable options. The controller with a built-in screen (DJI RC/RC 2) offers the most portability.
• Aeroo Pro — Aeroo Pro, $1,099. Provides a 45-minute flight time, 2.2 lb payload capacity, and a remote payload-release mechanism; some researchers have used it for small sensor deliveries.
• Potensic Atom 2 — Potensic Atom 2, $359. A lower-quality alternative to the DJI Mini 2. Not NDAA compliant, as it is manufactured in China.
• DJI Neo — DJI Neo, ~$199. 135g micro-sized drone, 4K/30fps, ~18-min flight.
• DJI Neo 2 — DJI Neo 2, ~$429. Newest model with extra functionality. 151g, omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, 4K/60fps, ~19-min flight.