Best Drones under $100
If you are looking for an inexpensive drone under $100 November 2024, then this review is perfect for you. Most of the drones in my selection are just for gaining experience at a fraction of the price. You will learn how drones differ from one to another, what to look for and be able to choose the right quadcopter for your desires. Well, let's start reading and choosing.
If you're pressed for time, here's my top picks of the best drones under $100:
Table of contents:
- Best Drone under $100- Buyer's Guide
- Best Drones under $100: TOP 6
- Best Drone 100 dollars: Comparison
- DJI Ryze Tech Tello Drone
- DEERC D10 Drone
- Holy Stone HS110D Drone
- Loolinn Z3 Drone
- Syma EX300-B Drone
- Holy Stone HS280 Drone
- FAQ about Best Drones under $100
- Best Drone 100 dollars: Conclusion
Best Drone under $100 — Buyer’s Guide
Drawing from my experience purchasing a drone on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or essential features. Drones under $100 can be great for beginners, kids, or anyone looking to enjoy the fun of flying without breaking the bank. This buyer’s guide will walk you through what to consider when selecting the best drone in this price range.
Flight Time
In this price range, expect flight times of around 7 to 15 minutes per battery. Many drones come with extra batteries to extend your total flight time, so look for models that include this as a bonus. Modular batteries are easier to replace and charge. They are a convenient feature that can save time during your flying sessions. Many professional drones have flight time of 40-50 minutes. But they will suit you if you are engaged in professional video editing, photography. They will cost about 500 or more. I have already written a review about the best drones under 500, so you can check it.
Durability and Portability
Drones under $100 are generally made of lightweight plastic, so it’s essential to consider durability. Look for drones with propeller guards and sturdy construction that can withstand minor crashes. While most drones in this price range will have brushed motors, which are less durable, some models may offer brushless motors, which are quieter, more powerful, and have a longer lifespan.
As for portability, а foldable drone is more portable and easier to carry, making it a great option if you plan to travel with your drone.
Lightweight drones are easier to transport and often don’t require registration with aviation authorities, making them convenient for casual use.
Control Range
Drones under $100 typically offer control ranges between 50 to 100 meters. While this is sufficient for casual flying, it’s something to consider if you want to fly further distances.
First-person view (FPV) range is another factor. The FPV range is often shorter than the control range, so be aware of this if real-time video transmission is important to you.
Intelligent Features
Some drones offer gesture control, allowing you to take photos or videos with simple hand movements. This can add a fun and interactive element to your flying experience.
The ability to draw a flight path on your smartphone for the drone to follow is a feature found in some budget drones, adding a layer of automation and creativity to your flights.
Safety Features
A low battery warning on the remote can help prevent losing your drone during flight. Emergency Stop feature allows you to quickly stop the drone in case of an emergency, preventing crashes.Weight
Best Drones Under $100 - TOP 6
Ready to dive into the top picks? Here's a concise list of best drones under 100 that bring quality and affordability to the table.
Best Drone 100 dollars: Comparison
Now let's take a closer look at all the drones and decide which one is right for a beginner or a teenager.
| Drone Model | Battery Life | Range | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJI Ryze Tech Tello | Up to 13 minutes | 100 meters | 5 MP camera, 720p HD video, EZ Shots, VR headset compatibility, Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) |
| DEERC D10 Drone | Up to 30 minutes (2 batteries) | 80 meters | 2K HD camera, Foldable design, Gesture Control, Waypoints, One Key Start/Landing, 3D Flips |
| Holy Stone HS110D | Up to 20 minutes (2 batteries) | 100 meters | 1080p HD camera, Altitude Hold, Headless Mode, 3D Flips, FPV Real-Time Transmission |
| Loolinn Z3 Drone | Up to 24 minutes (2 batteries) | 120 meters | 720p HD camera, One Key Takeoff/Landing, Gesture Control, Headless Mode, Altitude Hold |
| Syma EX300-B Drone | Up to 16 minutes | 100 meters | 1080p HD camera, Altitude Hold, Headless Mode, FPV Real-Time Transmission, One Key Start/Landing |
| Holy Stone HS280 Drone | Up to 28 minutes (2 batteries) | 100 meters | 1080p HD adjustable camera, Foldable design, Gesture Control, Waypoints, Brushless Motors |
DJI Ryze Tech Tello Drone under $100 Review
Editor’s Choice
The Ryze Tech Tello is a high-quality drone that is perfect for taking amazing videos and pictures. It has a powerful image processor that lets you record pro-level videos with EZ Shots and share them on social media from your smartphone. The camera takes 5MP (2592x1936) photos and HD720 videos.Tello has two antennas that make video transmission extra stable.The angle of view is 82.6 degrees. At the bottom there are two infrared sensors and an additional camera. They are used for visual positioning, the presence of which, by the way, sets it apart from the competitors.
According to the manufacturer, it lasts for 13 minutes of flight but I found out that this are probably some ideal conditions, because it lasted for about 12 minutes. It is charged through the micro-usb connector, which is located on the copter. This is very cool because you don't need to carry around some additional external charging; it can recharge from a conventional power bank.
It is controlled from your smartphone, that is connected to the Wi-Fi network created by the copter. This is good because it is very simple on the smartphone touch screen and is also not very good because when you get used to the physical sticks as on copters with an external remote control then it feels a little unusual. Another scenario is connecting an external gamepad to your smartphone to control it. It connects via Bluetooth without any problems and is pulled into the Tello app.
There are two flight modes for easy flying: normal and high-speed. In the latter, Tello accelerates to 8 meters per second, which is almost 30 km/h. This mode is recommended for outside only, because at home it is simply dangerous. Although the declared flight range is up to 100m, this value varies greatly depending on the presence of external interference.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Sturdy construction
- Programming options
- Camera 720p HD Video
- Camera 4K Photo
Cons:
- No built-in memory card
- Minor delay in control
Summary: As indicated by my tests, the Ryze Tech Tello is a user-friendly drone with a 5MP camera and HD 720p video, offering stable footage thanks to its dual antennas and visual positioning system. It provides about 12 minutes of flight time, charges via micro-USB, and is controlled via smartphone or gamepad. With two flight modes, including a high-speed option for outdoor use, Tello is a great choice for capturing aerial footage.
DEERC D10 Drone under 100 Review
Best Overall
One of the D10's greatest strengths is its user-friendly design. It features one-button launch/landing, altitude hold, and headless mode, which make flying much easier. The speed control feature is also a nice addition, allowing you to customize the drone's response speed to suit your comfort level.
In terms of performance, the D10 delivers uninterrupted FPV transmission within an 80-meter range, which is sufficient for most recreational flying scenarios. The ability to capture and record 2K HD aerial footage is impressive in this price category, and the seamless integration with the DEERC app allows you to instantly share your aerial adventures on social media.
The drone folds up into a compact, portable form, making it easy to pack and take with you on your travels. The two included modular batteries provide up to 30 minutes of flight time - enough for several sessions without recharging.
The Waypoints flying function allows you to draw a flight path on your smartphone, and the drone will follow it autonomously. For those who like hands-free control, the D10 offers intelligent control options through the built-in G-sensor and voice commands.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Features
- 3D Flips Function
- 2K HD Camera
- Portable Design
- Decent Flight Time up to 30 minutes
- Advanced Features
Cons:
- Limited FPV Range 80 meters
- Wind Sensitivity
- Obstacle Avoidance
Summary: My findings show that, the DEERC D10 Drone is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a well-rounded, user-friendly drone. Its mix of easy-to-use features, solid performance, and advanced controls make it a great choice for beginners and experienced users alike. Whether you're flying for fun or capturing stunning aerial footage, the D10 is a drone that won't disappoint.
Holy Stone HS110D Drone under $100 Review
People's choice
The Holy Stone HS110D drone is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and feature-rich drone. It comes with a 1080P HD camera that can capture stunning images and videos. The drone also has a 120° wide field of view that allows you to see more of your surroundings. Additionally, the drone has a 3D flip feature that allows you to perform tricks and flips with ease.
The gravity sensor is also a great feature that allows the drone to automatically adjust its flight path based on the direction of gravity. Lastly, the voice control and gesture control features allow you to easily control the drone without having to use a remote control.
Pros:
- 1080P HD camera
- Many good features
- 120° Wide-angle
- Weight light
Cons:
- Unstable at powerful winds
Summary: Based on my observations, the Holy Stone HS110D is a powerful and feature-rich drone, ideal for capturing stunning images and videos with its 1080P HD camera and 120° wide field of view. It offers fun features like 3D flips for easy tricks and a gravity sensor that adjusts the drone's flight path automatically. Additionally, voice and gesture control make operating the drone effortless, even without a remote control, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users.
Loolinn Z3 Drone under $100 Review
Premium Choice
This Loolinn drone is equipped with an optical flow positioning sensor that ensures stable hovering for clear and precise footage. It comes with three rechargeable batteries, offering an impressive total flight time of over 60 minutes—significantly longer than similar drones, which typically only last around 7 minutes per battery. The drone's aesthetic design is appealing, especially to children, and it is exceptionally easy to fly, making it ideal for beginners. Additional features include 3D flip capabilities and 720p video capture, all controlled via Wi-Fi. This drone is perfect for kids and teenagers who want a fun and easy flying experience.
Pros:
- Camera 720p HD
- Flight time of 40 minutes
- Weight light
- Turn 360°
Cons:
- The propellers are fragile (but you can buy them separately if you crash into something and break them)
Summary: The Loolinn Drone is a great choice for those who are looking for an easy to use and affordable drone. It is perfect for beginners and children over 10. The drone has a maximum flight time of 60 minutes, making it great for capturing those special moments. The camera on the drone is 720 HD, providing you with clear and sharp images. The drone is also lightweight, making it easy to transport. Finally, the drone has a 360° turn function, allowing you to capture those hard to reach places.
Syma EX300 Drone under 100 Review
Best Designe
The Syma Drone is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality drone with 1080P camera and WIFI Real-Time Transmission Function. The headless mode and 360° Flip Function make it easy to get started with flying, and the High/Low Speed Function means you can adjust the speed to suit your needs.
The One Button Take off / Landing function makes it easy to get started, and the 40 minutes of flight time with 2 batteries means you can keep flying for a long time. The APP control means you can fly the drone from your smartphone or tablet, making it easy to get the perfect shot.
Pros:
- 1080P HD camera
- 40 minutes of flight time with 2 batteries
- One Button Take off / Landing function
- 2-speed switch
- 360° Flip Function
- APP control
Cons:
- Some users have noted that video can be unstable when descending or ascending
Summary: The Syma Drone is an excellent option for those seeking a high-quality drone with a 1080P camera and Wi-Fi real-time transmission. It features headless mode and a 360° flip function, making it easy for beginners to fly. The adjustable high/low-speed function allows for customized flight experiences. With a one-button takeoff/landing feature and up to 40 minutes of flight time using two batteries, it offers extended flying sessions. The drone can also be controlled via an app on your smartphone or tablet, making it convenient to capture the perfect shot.
Holy Stone HS280 Drone under $100 Review
Best Video Resolution
One of the standout features of the HS280 is its adjustable 1080P HD camera, which allows for 70° electric remote control adjustment. This flexibility, combined with an upgraded hover system and optical flow positioning technology, ensures stable and clear aerial shots. The FPV real-time transmission is smooth and enables quick sharing of your captured moments with friends and family, making it a great choice for capturing special events or scenic views.
The HS280 is equipped with durable brushless motors, which are known for their superior performance compared to standard motors. These motors provide better wind resistance and a more powerful, quieter flight experience.
Safety and flight duration are two areas where the HS280 excels. The drone comes with two rechargeable modular batteries that collectively offer up to 28 minutes of flight time. Additionally, the remote controller features a low battery warning system, providing extra peace of mind, especially for beginners who might be concerned about losing control mid-flight.
The drone includes One Key Take-off/Landing, Tap Fly, Altitude Hold, Headless Mode, and Emergency Stop Functions. These features simplify the flying process, allowing beginners to focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about complex controls.
Pros:
- Adjustable 1080P HD Camera
- Powerful Brushless Motors
- Up to 28 minutes of flight time
- User-Friendly Controls and Intelligent Features
- Portable and Lightweight
- Low Battery Warning
Cons:
- Wind Sensitivity
- No Obstacle Avoidance
Summary: The Holy Stone HS280 Drone is a well-rounded and versatile option for anyone from beginners to more experienced drone enthusiasts. Its combination of an adjustable HD camera, powerful brushless motors, long flight time, and user-friendly controls make it a solid choice for anyone looking to capture stunning aerial footage or simply enjoy flying a drone. The added intelligent features and portable design only enhance its appeal, making it a great value for its price.
FAQ about Best Drones under $100
Get answers to your burning questions about the best drone under $100 and more.
What happens if a drone goes out of range?
There are drones that have a GPS function. These drones automatically return when they lose signal or the battery runs out. Often these drones cost under $200. If the quadcopter has no GPS, then there can be such a function as emergency landing, then it automatically begins to land if it loses the signal from the remote control. But if the drone has no such functions, then I advise you not to lose sight of it, so that in case of signal loss (if the flight distance is exceeded or failure) you can always see where your drone lands and where to look for it.
Can I get a good drone for under $100?
Yes, you can definitely find a good drone for under $100. While these drones won't have the high-end features of more expensive models, they often include essentials like HD cameras, decent flight times, and beginner-friendly controls. They are great for beginners, kids, or anyone looking for a fun flying experience without spending too much.
What kind of camera quality can I expect from a drone under $100?
Drones under $100 typically feature cameras with resolutions ranging from 720p to 1080p. While you won't find 4K resolution in this price range, 1080p cameras can still capture clear and enjoyable footage, making them suitable for casual photography and video recording.
How long do drones under $100 usually fly?
Flight time for drones in this price range generally ranges from 7 to 15 minutes per battery. Some drones come with additional batteries, which can extend the total flight time to around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the model.
Can drones under $100 perform tricks like flips?
Yes, many drones in this price range offer features like 360-degree flips, which can be performed with a simple button press. These tricks add an element of fun to flying, especially for beginners and kids.
Best Drone 100 dollars: Conclusion
In conclusion, the best drones under $100, such as the DJI Ryze Tech Tello, DEERC D10, and Holy Stone HS110D, offer a fantastic balance of features, performance, and value. The DJI Ryze Tech Tello stands out with its impressive camera quality, stable flight capabilities, and advanced features like Electronic Image Stabilization, making it a top choice for those who want a more polished flying experience. The DEERC D10 is perfect for beginners, offering a foldable design, 2K HD camera, and an extended flight time of up to 30 minutes with two batteries. It also includes user-friendly features like Gesture Control and Waypoints, enhancing the overall flying experience. The Holy Stone HS110D provides a solid 1080P HD camera, easy-to-use controls, and fun features like 3D flips, making it a great all-around drone for both beginners and casual users.
Each of these drones excels in different areas, but all provide an enjoyable flying experience without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for advanced camera capabilities, extended flight time, or ease of use, these drones offer something for everyone, making them the best choices for under $100.
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