The Best Drones for Beginners

Drones have quickly evolved from niche gadgets to mainstream tech that anyone can enjoy, whether you're a tech enthusiast, hobbyist, or even someone looking to explore aerial photography and videography. In 2024, the market for drones has expanded significantly, offering an array of beginner-friendly options that combine easy controls, affordable prices, and high-tech features. Whether you’re learning to fly for fun or aiming to capture stunning aerial footage, finding the right drone can make all the difference in your experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best drones for beginners in 2024, focusing on options that offer ease of use, durability, and performance. These drones are designed to be accessible for first-time users, yet they pack plenty of features to ensure that you can grow with them as you gain experience. Let’s take a closer look at the top choices and what makes them stand out.

1. DJI Mini 3: Best Overall Drone for Beginners

When it comes to the perfect combination of ease of use, performance, and affordability, the DJI Mini 3 stands out as the best drone for beginners in 2024. DJI is a leader in the drone industry, and the Mini 3 packs plenty of advanced features into a lightweight, compact design without overwhelming new users.

Key Features: Weighing just under 249 grams, the DJI Mini 3 is light enough to avoid FAA registration in most countries. It features a 12MP camera with 4K video capabilities, delivering stunning aerial footage with ease. The three-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable videos, even in windy conditions.

Flight Time: With an impressive 38 minutes of flight time, beginners can get plenty of flying experience without needing constant recharges. The extended battery life makes it one of the best choices for those looking to spend more time in the air.

User-Friendly Controls: One of the most appealing aspects of the Mini 3 is its intuitive controls. The DJI Fly app provides an easy-to-use interface that helps beginners get the hang of flying quickly. Features like QuickShots allow you to perform cinematic maneuvers with just a tap, perfect for capturing stunning videos without needing advanced piloting skills.

Why it’s perfect for beginners: The DJI Mini 3 offers a seamless learning experience, high-quality footage, and great flight stability, making it an excellent choice for new drone enthusiasts who want to explore aerial photography or videography.

2. Ryze Tello: Best Budget Drone for Beginners

If you're looking for a budget-friendly drone that still offers plenty of features, the Ryze Tello is an excellent entry-level option. Despite its affordable price, the Tello is packed with fun features that make it a great first drone for anyone looking to get started without breaking the bank.

Key Features: The Ryze Tello comes with a 5MP camera that captures 720p HD video, which is more than enough for casual photography and learning to fly. It also features electronic image stabilization (EIS), helping beginners capture smoother footage as they practice their piloting skills.

Flight Time: Offering up to 13 minutes of flight time, the Tello’s battery life is respectable for a drone in its price range. It's perfect for short, fun flights in the backyard or park.

Beginner-Friendly Design: The Tello is designed with safety in mind, featuring auto takeoff and landing functions, along with built-in collision detection to avoid crashes. The drone can be flown using a smartphone app, and its lightweight frame makes it easy to control, even for first-time users.

Why it’s perfect for beginners: The Ryze Tello is an affordable, lightweight drone that provides enough features for beginners to master the basics without making a large financial commitment. It’s a great way to enter the world of drones without the pressure of expensive equipment.

3. Holy Stone HS720E: Best Drone for Aerial Photography Beginners

If your primary goal is to get into aerial photography and videography, the Holy Stone HS720E offers an excellent blend of features and performance for beginners interested in capturing high-quality footage. This drone provides professional-grade functionality without the complexity of high-end models, making it ideal for new drone photographers.

Key Features: The HS720E is equipped with a 4K UHD camera and EIS for super-stable footage. The drone also offers adjustable camera angles, allowing you to capture a wide range of shots from different perspectives.

GPS-Assisted Flight: One of the standout features for beginners is the GPS-assisted flight mode, which provides precise positioning, automatic return-to-home functions, and better control for new users. This feature ensures that the drone returns safely if it flies out of range or the battery runs low.

Flight Time: The HS720E offers a flight time of up to 26 minutes, giving beginners enough time to practice flying and experiment with capturing different angles and scenes. The drone comes with an extra battery, so you can extend your flying sessions.

Why it’s great for beginners: The Holy Stone HS720E is perfect for beginners who want to focus on aerial photography. Its combination of 4K video, easy controls, and GPS functions make it a solid option for those who want a step up from entry-level drones without the complexities of professional models.

4. Potensic A20: Best Mini Drone for Beginners

For younger pilots or anyone looking for a mini drone that’s simple, fun, and easy to control, the Potensic A20 is an ideal choice. This pocket-sized drone is designed for indoor flying and offers a great introduction to basic drone controls.

Key Features: The Potensic A20 comes with altitude hold, making it easier for beginners to maintain a stable hover, even indoors. Its one-button takeoff and landing function ensures smooth and simple operation.

Durability: The drone’s propeller guards and sturdy frame make it durable enough to withstand minor crashes and bumps, which is a common occurrence for first-time users. This makes it an excellent choice for kids or beginners who are still mastering their flying skills.

Flight Time: With a flight time of about 7 minutes per battery, the A20 is designed for quick and fun flights. It’s perfect for younger users or those looking for a mini drone to practice with indoors.

Why it’s great for beginners: The Potensic A20 is the perfect starter drone for younger flyers or anyone looking for an indoor-friendly mini drone. Its simplicity, durability, and affordability make it a great tool for learning the ropes of drone flight.

5. DJI Mavic Air 2: Best Drone for Beginners Ready to Level Up

For beginners who want more advanced features and room to grow as they become more confident pilots, the DJI Mavic Air 2 offers the perfect blend of user-friendly controls and professional-grade features. Though it's slightly more advanced, it’s still accessible enough for those who are serious about taking their drone experience to the next level.

Key Features: The Mavic Air 2 boasts a 48MP camera with 4K video recording at 60fps, offering stunning image quality and smooth footage. It also includes SmartPhoto technology, which enhances your photos with HDR, hyperlight, and scene recognition.

Advanced Flight Modes: Features like ActiveTrack 3.0, QuickShots, and FocusTrack make it easy for beginners to capture professional-level footage, even with minimal flying experience. The obstacle avoidance sensors help prevent collisions, making it ideal for new users.

Flight Time: With up to 34 minutes of flight time, the Mavic Air 2 provides more flying time than most drones on the market, making it perfect for extended filming sessions.

Why it’s great for beginners: The DJI Mavic Air 2 offers a range of high-end features while still being accessible to new users. If you’re ready to invest in a drone that will grow with your skills, the Mavic Air 2 is a great choice for beginners looking to take their flying and photography to the next level.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Drone for Beginners

In 2024, the best drones for beginners offer an exciting blend of user-friendly controls, impressive camera capabilities, and a range of price points to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for an affordable entry-level drone like the Ryze Tello, a photography-focused option like the Holy Stone HS720E, or a more advanced model like the DJI Mavic Air 2, there’s a drone out there for everyone.

When choosing the right drone, consider factors like camera quality, flight time, durability, and how much room the drone gives you to grow as you develop your flying skills. With the right drone in hand, you’ll be soaring through the skies and capturing breathtaking footage in no time. Happy flying!