Drone cameras are a must have for every vlogger and social media influencer nowadays. They are instrumental in capturing high quality video from a range of heights and angles. Even corporations like construction companies and advertisers use drones to get interesting shots. Security agencies also fit a standard solar powered security camera into a drone to survey large areas. If you are considering a reliable drone cam to invest in, here are some of the top cams to buy.
1. DJI Mavic 2
This was the top-rated drone cam a couple of years back and remains one of the most sought-after ones. It comes with a special hyper lapse feature that enhances the video quality. It is easy to control and maintains a smooth flight even in unstable winds.
- Size: 215 x 90 x 85 mm
- Comes with controller
- Video quality: 30 fps
- Camera: 12 MP
- Battery: 30 minutes
- Distance: 5 miles
- Top speed: 45 mph
- Weight: 900 gm
Pros
- Easy to carry around
- Lightweight
- Comes with zoom feature
- Supported by high quality software
Cons
- Costly at USD 1439
- Limited height
2. Ryze Tello
This highly compact drone cam is extremely lightweight and comes with exceptional sensors and supporting software. The image quality is also second to none and the footage can be transferred to your phone immediately. It lacks GPS technology but is pretty low-cost for beginners. You also don’t need a memory card to save your images.
- Size: 99 x 94 x 40 mm
- Can be used indoors
- Video quality: 780 pixels
- Camera: 5 MP
- Battery: 12 minutes
- Distance: 100 meters
- Top speed: 18 mph
- Weight: 80 gm
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Good choice for learners
- Small and easily portable
- High quality software
Cons
- Requires phone connectivity
- Limited height
- Does not allow tilting movements
3. Skydio 2
The Skydio 2 is a highly popular model that comes with some surprisingly innovative features. It is equipped with tracking features as well as an anti-collision system. This helps to keep the drone cam safe and on track. It runs exceptionally well on AI and does not require pilot control all the time. Minimum power is needed which means the battery can run longer.
- Size: 220 x 275 x 75 mm
- App-enabled controller
- Video quality: 60 fps
- Camera: 8 MP
- Battery: 20 minutes
- Distance: 2 miles
- Top speed: 37 mph
- Weight: 775 gm
Pros
- Superior tracking system
- Multiple shooting angles
- Affordable price
- Additional cameras can be fitted
Cons
- Controller is an added feature
- Limited tracking
- Limited pre-defined shots
4. Autel Robotics
This Autel drone cam is great at recording videos in 4K format and generating high quality images. It offers a good range of exposure and also maintains a solid connection with the controller. There is minimal risk of interference. The firmware is regularly updated which makes it relevant down the years.
- Size: 11 x 10 x 5 inches
- Equipped with controller
- Video quality: 60 fps
- Camera: 10 MP
- Battery: 30 minutes
- Distance: 4.2 miles
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
Pros
- Stable connection
- Proficient controller
- Affordable cost
- Clear video quality
Cons
- Large video files take up memory space
- Poor backup
5. DJI Zenmuse X5S
This is an amazing drone cam that offers a high-end image processing system. The cam can be fitted easily on the drone and can be used to capture high quality images at a low cost. It is also durable and made with sturdy material. An excellent purchase for beginners.
- Size: 5.5 x 5 x 7 inches
- Fitted with controller
- Video quality: 50 fps
- Camera: 12 MP
- Battery: 30 minutes
- Distance: 4 miles
- Top speed: 23 mph
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
Pros
- An ideal investment
- Excellent design
- Easy to follow manual
- Warranty protection
Cons
- Expensive
- Incompatible with some drones
Final thoughts
Drone cams come in all kinds of designs and with endless features. The best drone cam for you should be one that fits within your budget, is easy to operate and that offers you the quality that you need. Remember to factor in all these things when comparing the 5 drone cams discussed above and deciding which one to buy. Your investment should last you at least a couple of years and should ideally be compatible with newer technologies as they arrive on the market.
