A few years ago, drones were prohibitively expensive, to the point where only companies, successful photographers, and early adopters were willing to shell out the cash. These days, however, drones have become a lot cheaper, across a whole range of budget classes.
Let’s take a look at the types of drones currently on the market and what they typically go for in USD.
Toy Drones
With drones, the cost is relative to the drone’s size, features, quality of materials, and power. Smaller, cheaper drones – also called toy drones – typically range anywhere between $20 and $250.
These drones are perfect if you’re just starting out and want to fly for fun or if you’re on a budget and buying the drone as a gift. Toy drones tend to have fewer features and capabilities than their more expensive camera drone counterparts.
For example, toy drones tend to not be able to fly very far, relatively speaking. Toy drones have a maximum range of about 300 feet (some much less). While camera and racing drones can reach much greater distances – with some going as far as 4.5 miles. Toy drones, and quadcopters in general, also tend to have fairly short battery lives, but luckily that can easily be rectified with a charged backup battery.
There are a few toy drones that go for under $20, like the Cheerson CX 10. However, these drones don’t come recommended, unless you’re buying it as a literal toy. These drones tend to be very limited in what they can do and how far they can go.
Camera Drones
Camera drones form the largest segment of the drone market and prices can range somewhere between $300 and $6000+, depending on the drone model and brand. Though don’t mistake the term “camera drone” for thinking that these are the only drones that come with cameras.
Most commercial drones come with onboard cameras already installed these days – including toy and racing drones. The big difference is that “camera drones” are built specifically to cater to high-end photography and commercial needs. Including applications in agriculture, construction, real estate, and mining among other industries.
Given that you have a wide range of price points here, you can expect a similarly wide range of features, quality, and abilities.
Racing Drones
Racing drones can vary greatly in price, depending on your preferences. The average price for these drones go as low as $200 (which isn’t all that low) but can easily go for $1500+. Racing drones come in two options: RTF (Ready-To-Fly) and custom racing drones where you choose the parts that make up your drone.
Unlike the other two categories, racing drones are built almost exclusively for one purpose. These drones are best left to people with at least some flying experience, who favor of strength and speed.
The sport of drone racing has really taken off around the world, with competitions and prize money to be won. Due to their popularity, the price of racing drones have dropped a bit – but they’re still a fairly niche, and thus expensive, investment. Especially if you want something of higher power and quality.
