Best drones for beginners

Do you want to start flying drones but have no idea which one to buy? Here we explain what to look for when purchasing a drone and which drones are best for beginners.

Important Specifications for Beginner Drone Pilots

When buying your first drone, there are several specifications and features that can be particularly useful for novice pilots:

• Obstacle Detection
  Flying a drone takes some practice. If you make a steering error, obstacle detection might help you avoid a crash. However, don’t rely on it too much and always stay aware of your surroundings while flying.

• Flight Modes
  Want to easily capture dynamic drone footage? Choose a drone with QuickShots, ActiveTrack, WayPoints, and/or MasterShots. These modes automate flying and footage creation. You’ll find these options on almost all DJI models.

• Camera Quality
  Many drones record in 4K, but there can still be differences in image quality, often due to sensor size.

• Sufficient Flight Time
  Having enough time in the air is helpful when you're starting out. It gives you enough time to position the drone and capture various shots.

• Cx Label and Regulations
  It’s smart to check in advance what Cx label the drone has and which regulations apply to the device.

The Best Drones for Beginner Pilots

Based on the specifications above, we’ve selected our favorite beginner drones. These models are beginner-friendly thanks to their versatile safety features and flight modes.

DJI Flip

With the DJI Flip, DJI has added an interesting model to its lineup. As DJI’s first foldable drone with fully enclosed propellers, the Flip combines the safety of the Neo with the image quality of the Mini 4 Pro. Its unique foldable design makes it compact and easy to carry.

The 3-axis stabilized camera performs impressively with a 1/1.3” CMOS sensor, supporting 4K HDR video and RAW photography. Extra features such as AI subject tracking and 3D infrared obstacle detection enhance user-friendliness. However, the Flip is more sensitive to wind than the Mini 4 Pro and lacks side obstacle detection. The hinges may also be prone to wear with heavy use. ND filters are not included in the Fly More Combo.

With the Flip, DJI has launched a safe, high-quality drone that is especially appealing to beginners and travelers. While it doesn’t outperform the Mini 4 Pro in all areas, the Flip excels in portability.

Tip: Get the A1-A3 certificate to understand the regulations.

DJI Mini 4 Pro

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is the ideal drone for beginners. It includes all essential features a new pilot needs. With omnidirectional obstacle detection, it’s easy to avoid collisions. DJI drones can also be set to beginner mode, which limits the flight distance to 30 meters—making it safer for learning to fly.

The Mini 4 Pro features FocusTrack flight mode that keeps the drone focused on a subject. Its camera includes a 1/1.3” CMOS sensor with 4K/100fps video and can shoot photos at up to 48 MP.

For a slightly higher price, you won’t deal with the drawbacks of the DJI Flip. We believe the Mini 4 Pro still offers excellent value for money. If you’re not in a hurry, you might consider waiting for the rumored DJI Mini 5, which may be released this summer.

Tip: Get the A1-A3 certificate to understand the regulations.

DJI Air 3S

The DJI Air 3S is currently the best drone for creating social media content. It features a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens.

This drone builds on the success of the DJI Air 3 with impressive upgrades. The biggest improvements include a 50 MP main camera, advanced zoom capabilities (up to 9x hybrid zoom), and a LiDAR sensor for obstacle detection even in low light.

For social media content, the Air 3S offers vertical video recording in 2.7K resolution, ideal for platforms like Instagram. Note that this is a vertical crop only.

With 4K resolution at up to 120 fps, 42 GB internal storage, and the upgraded DJI RC-N3 controller, the Air 3S is perfect for semi-professional pilots and content creators.

The A1-A3 certificate is mandatory for this drone.

DJI Avata 2

The DJI Avata 2 is the perfect drone for fans of speed and freedom. As a First Person View (FPV) drone, it offers a unique flying experience through a live-action headset that lets you see through the drone’s eyes. Its compact size and protected propellers make the Avata 2 agile and ideal for tight environments.

With flight modes ranging from beginner to advanced, the DJI Avata 2 is suitable for any pilot. The stabilized camera with RockSteady technology delivers smooth 4K 100fps or 1080p HD 120fps footage. This makes it perfect for capturing dynamic, high-quality videos.

Thanks to its intuitive controls, rugged design, and impressive performance, the DJI Avata 2 is the ideal choice for both beginners and experienced pilots looking to take their flight experience to the next level.

The A1-A3 certificate is mandatory for this drone.

What Should I Know Before Flying?

Planning to buy one of the drones above and fly it in Europe? Then you’ll need to follow European drone regulations. You’re not allowed to fly just anywhere. There is always a height limit, the drone must remain within visual line of sight, and flying over crowds is prohibited. You must also register as a drone operator.

You can read all about the main drone rules and what you need to arrange before your first flight in our blog about the 2025 drone regulations. Breaking these rules can lead to significant fines. Always fly safely and legally.