§2024-12-12

1.Recommendations

I’d like to make some recommendations for some starter drones that are great quality, fly well and won’t break the bank. The first category are the sub-250 gram drones. This weight is significant because FAA rules, which apply to drones, offer certain regulatory exceptions for drones weighing under 250 grams. First, sub-250g drones flown for recreation need not be registered and are exempt from the new Remote ID rules which go into effect in Sept. of 2023. (Remote ID requires a drone to broadcast a unique identifying signal which can be monitored by any member of the public).

  1. Drone Price range $759 to $909

If you want something with good features that won’t break the bank, I highly recommend the DJI Mini 3 series. The Mini 3 is available in 2 models; the Mini 3 and the Mini 3 Pro. Of these 2, my top pick is the Mini 3 Pro. The Mini 3 Pro offers features found on more expensive drones such as tracking, obstacle avoidance and slow motion video at 120 FPS. The Mini 3’s camera is capable of flipping vertically to capture video in a format more suitable for social media applications. For $759 you get the traditional remote that uses your smart phone for a display. If you want a smart remote controller with the display built in, that combo will cost you $909. Virtually every customer who has come to me for a Mini 3 Pro has opted for the smart controller. Most people want a dedicated remote that doesn’t require them to connect their phone.

The Mini 3 Pro bundled with the DJI RC Smart Controller is rated at a range of up to 15 KM. Range is always dependent on conditions and the environment. The law requires you to fly within line of sight these specs are calculated under absolutely ideal conditions. That said, the range will be more than enough.

The Mini 3 Pro advertises a flight time 34 minutes with the stock battery and 47 Min with the “Plus” version extended life batteries. My tests confirmed the 34 minute flight time is possible. Just keep in mind that if you opt for the extended life batteries, the weight of the drone will exceed to 250g, requiring you to comply with the FAA’s registration and remote ID requirement. Don’t think you’ll get away with the heavier battery and not registering Remote ID. DJI will no doubt detect the heavier setup and its fly-safe protocol will ground you until you comply with remote ID. As Obi-wan Kenobi puts it, if you want to avoid any “Imperial Entanglements” avoid using the Plus version (extended flight time battery).