Drones have changed the way we take photos and videos. It’s a cheap and easy way to explore the skies. But if you’re looking for the best drones under $500, you’re in luck. There are high-quality and feature-packed drones available that offer great performance for beginners, semi-professionals, and the best. Whether you’re a new photographer and vlogger or just want to make it for fun, this guide highlights the top drones in this price range . Here are the best drones at this price point, with camera quality, flight time, ease of use, and GPS with advanced features. In this article, we’ll review the best drones under $500, compare their features, and give you some tips to help you choose the perfect drone for your needs.
What to Look for in a Drone Under $500
Camera Quality:
For good drone camera quality, you should have at least a 12MP camera and a resolution of 1080p or 4K video resolution. Look for drones with a sensor size of 1 to 1.3 inches or better to get good images even in low light.
Flight Time:
There should be at least 20 to 30 minutes of flight time on each battery charge. This longer flight time means more flight time.
Ease of Use:
Features like GPS automatic take-off and landing and beginner mode make flying a drone a breeze, especially for those who are new to it.
Portability and Durability:
Lightweight drones can often operate without FAA registration for regression juice. Foldable designs improve portability.
Top 5 Best Drones Under $500 in 2025
1. DJI Mini 4K
Price: Approximately $299–$349
The DJI Mini 4K is a great choice that comes at a budget-friendly price despite its professional-grade features. Weighing just 246 grams, this drone is FAA-registered for recreational use, making it ideal for beginners and enthusiasts. It has a 12-megapixel camera that records 4K video at 30fps. The 3 axis gimbal makes flight extremely smooth and it also offers 2X digital zoom. Its flight time is about 31 minutes on a single battery.
2. DJI Neo
Price: Around $199–$249.
The DJI Neo is DJI’s most compact drone yet, weighing just 135 grams, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Its unique form factor and flight control system eliminate the need for a remote controller, making it very convenient for solo photographers. It has a 12MP camera that records 4K-stabilized video at 30fps and comes with stabilization features like RockSteady and HorizonBalancing stabilization. It has a flight time of up to 18 minutes. Its features include AI subject tracking.
3. Potensic ATOM SE
Price: Approximately $249–$299.
The Potency Atom SE is a great drone option that offers the best combination of portability and advanced features. It is also free to register for free on request due to its lower weight than the DJI Mavic Mini. It has a 12-megapixel camera that records 4K video at 30fps. Its flight time is about 31 minutes on a single battery.
4. Holy Stone HS900
Price: Around $399–$450.
The HollyStone HS900, which was launched in 2024, has quickly become popular because it offers great camera quality and performance for under $500. This drone is ideal for those who are passionate about photography. It has a 4K camera that uses a 1.3-inch sensor that captures bright photos and videos. Its flight time is about 30 minutes.
5. Ruko F11 Pro
Price: Approximately $299–$349.
The Roku F11 Pro stands out for its great flight time, as it comes with two batteries that together provide a total flight time of up to 60 minutes. It is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy long aerial adventures. It has a 4K camera that records smooth footage with a two-axis gimbal. Each battery provides approximately 30 minutes of flight time. It can offer a total flight time of 60 minutes with two batteries.
Comparison Table: Best Drones Under $500
| Drone Model | Camera | Flight Time | Weight | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DJI Mini 4K | 12MP, 4K@30fps | 31 min | 246g | GPS, QuickShots, 3-axis gimbal, 10km range | $299–$349 |
| DJI Neo | 12MP, 4K@30fps | 18 min | 135g | Palm takeoff, AI tracking, propeller guards | $199–$249 |
| Potensic ATOM SE | 12MP, 4K@30fps | 31 min | <250g | SurgeFly™, GPS, Follow Me, Waypoint Fly | $249–$299 |
| Holy Stone HS900 | 4K EIS, 1/1.3-inch | 30 min | <250g | GPS, intelligent modes, compact design | $399–$450 |
| Ruko F11 Pro | 4K, 2-axis gimbal | 60 min (2 batteries) | <250g | GPS, Follow Me, Auto Return | $299–$349 |
Conclusion
We suggest you the best drones under $500 in 2025 that offer a great balance of performance and features, making aerial photography and videography easy for everyone. Whether you prefer a first-class drones like the DJI Mini 4K or go for the long-lasting Roku F11 Pro, we give a list of perfect drones that available for every budget and need. If you value camera quality, flight time, and ease of use, you can easily find a drone that will take your creativity to the next level without spending a lot of money.
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