Image via Complex Original
When most people think of drones, they envision the controversial unmanned aerial vehicles used by the military. But over the past few years a number of companies have come out with resourceful and playful consumer versions that you can own without being a member of the armed forces. Parrot set the trend at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show with the unveiling of its AR Drone 2.0 device and now others have followed. Curious to know what other high-tech, high-flyers are out there for purchase? Hop in the cockpit as we put you onto the 10 Best Drones You Can Buy Right Now.
Parrot AR.Drone 2.0
Price: $300
The most popular drone on the consumer market made a huge splash at last year's CES and found a spot on our 50 Best Gadgets of 2012 list for several reasons. Three being the improved control system, the built-in camera capable of capturing 720HD video, and the ability to create its own wi-fi network. Now carrying a 1500mAh high-density battery under the hood, expect up to 50 percent more power and flight time: 18-20 minutes to be exact. Fly high.
DJI Phantom GPS Drone
Price: $700
This GPS-enabled quadcopter comes stacked with an array of high-tech features including a handheld radio frequency control unit that supports a 300-meter range, Autopliot Mode, and an automatic landing option when the battery gets low. What sets the PHANTOM apart from other popular drones like the Parrot is its built-in camera mount, which supports a number of action cameras like the GoPro HERO. The cool thing is you don't have to worry about losing the device, as it's been programmed to return to its last flown location.
H-King Darkwing
Price: $167
Designed specifically for first-person viewing (FPV), the lightweight Darkwing offers massive payload capability for mounting accessories (radios, cameras, etc.) thanks to its lengthy 1,727mm wingspan. The machine bears a canopy for large storage space and its built-in wings simplify the assembling process.
Skybotix CoaX Autonomous UAV Micro Helicopter
Price: $5,000
Those in the research and education sectors with five grand to splurge should take Skybotix’s offering into account. Assembled to fly right out of the box, the CoaX comes laced with premium sensors and processors that are spearheaded by the device’s high-performing Gumstix Overo module. Besides supporting two Wi-Fi modules delivering up to 37Mbps, it also comes stacked with two cameras that produce 640x480 resolution and 15fps.
Lehmann LA100 GoPro Drone
Price: $1,330
Another unmanned aerial vehicle targeted towards GoPro owners, the control-less LA100 can hit the skies on its own for up to 5 minutes, while capturing images and videos at a near 330ft. Constructed from foam and carbon fiber, the flying machine makes for one of the more transportable drones with a 1kg G-factor and 1m wingspan. Plus, it’s made to sustain the most harsh climate conditions ranging from 25°C to +60°C.
Micro Drone
Price: $107
With four rotors and an automatic gyro control, couch potatoes can fly this miniature drone safely throughout the house avoiding all family members, pets, and valuables. It’s able to perform sharp turns and even 360-degree flips in mid-air. The compact remote flaunts a digital panel with customizable layout for both right- and left-handed users. That's a pretty dynamic piece of hardware for a tick over a Benjamin.
Turbo Ace X830-D Drone RTF
Price: $1,285
Unlike the majority of drones out there, the Turbo Ace X830D comes fully assembled and programmed. A high payload capacity allows for the mounting of heavier video cameras and lenses. The motors have been re-engineered to sustain heavier crashes and deliver better balance. And best of all: The machine supports the “industry’s longest flight time” at 23-30 minutes, hence the heavy price tag.
4-Channel Predator/Reaper-Style UAV Plane
Price: $350
Inspired by the real RQ-1 Predator, a UAV described by the U.S. Air Force as a "medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle system," this replica features 20 minutes of flight time per charge and carries a wingspan of over five feet. Packaging includes a PPM-FM 4 channel proportional R/C system, Brushless Motor, 8X6 Two-Paddles Propeller, and Lipo Battery.
Walkera QR Infra X Smart Drone
Price: $130
The world’s first drone with a CAS (Crash Avoidance System) comes equipped with 10 collision sensors that prevent the machine from crashing into people, objects, and walls. Placing a hand near it while in the air will send the Walkera Infra X flying in the opposite direction. Its two Ultrasonic Altitude Sensors allow it to climb up stairs and adjust height for each step. Plus it’s small enough to fit in your palm.
STORM Drone FF Flying Platform
Price: $360
Sporting four “well-balanced” rotors and a mount in the middle, the STORM lets you strap on a GoPro camera to record aerial footage for up to seven minutes, without compromising stability and video quality. It’s capable of doing so with the assistance of a high-speed motor and 9” x 4.7” rotors which help fight off strong winds. When the wind's not blowing, the STORM can stay put for up to 10 seconds, while red and white LED lights help users spot it when the sun goes down.