Drone Buying Guide
Drone Buying Guide
Buying a Drone

Entry-level drones are affordable, while premium models can cost thousands. Before buying, consider your experience and purpose.
- Buying for a child or beginner? Start with a robust, budget-friendly model. Expect a few crashes!
- For professional use, check range, flight time, and UK regulations. You may need Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) authorisation for commercial use.
- For aerial photography, choose a drone with a gimbal. Though pricier, it allows smoother, versatile shots.
Types of Drones
Drones for Kids & Beginners

Flying a drone takes practice, so it’s best to start simple when buying for beginners.
- Helicopters and planes may be cheaper but harder to control and repair. Quadcopter drones are easier for learning.
- Range isn’t critical for beginners. The higher you fly, the harder it is to control, especially in windy conditions.
- New to smartphone controls? Consider land-based drones to build confidence and skills first.
Drones for Recreation

Ready to level up? Advanced features add excitement but can increase costs, so choose wisely.
- FPV camera drones let you control and record in-flight footage via smartphone.
- For camera drones, check resolution, field of view (FOV) and recording format for quality shots.
- Consider GPS for smoother flight control, landing and mapping. Some drones offer control ranges up to 700m.
Drones for Professionals

Ideal for surveyors, filmmakers and estate agents, professional drones require careful consideration of UK regulations.
- Opt for longer flight times to minimise battery swaps and improve productivity.
- For high-quality footage, prioritise drones with gimbals for stabilised vertical and horizontal shots.
- Octocopters, with 8 blades, handle heavier payloads and provide better stability for advanced uses.
Drone Accessories
Accessories

Enhance your drone with joystick controls, gimbal rigs and range extenders for a better flying experience.
Action Cameras

Mount an action camera to capture stunning aerial footage. Compact and durable, they deliver high-quality video.
Spare Parts

Stock up on spare rotors, batteries and hulls to keep your drone in the air longer.