15 Best Drones to Buy in 2022
If you work as a videographer, you need to buy one of the best drones in order to showcase a better output of your videography skills.
As a videographer, having a good drone can also help improve your videography skills and create better output.
Consequently, you’ll need a dependable drone device to capture high-quality footage.
What are the best drones to buy in 2022?
So, which of the drones do the majority of creatives prefer? — Most of the creatives I know choose the DJI Mavic 3 due to its outstanding performance.
The ergonomics of DJI drones are the best, but if you like other brands, you can look at the other possibilities.
Here is my top ten list of the best drones for creatives.
Do you want to add your product to the list? — Find my address on the contact page and send your product for review.
15 Best Drones to Buy in 2022
- DJI Mavic 3 — Best overall
- DJI Air 2S — Best for professionals
- DJI Mini 2 — Best for students
- DJI Mavic Air2 — Best value
- Ryze Tech Tello — Best for beginners
- Parrot Anafi — Best for travel
- DJI Mavic 2 Zoom — Best for 5k videos
- DJI Mavic Mini — Best portable
- PowerVision Poweregg X — Most durable
- DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 — Best premium
- Autel EVO Lite+ — Best for videographers
- DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro — Best for portraits and social media
- DJI Avata — Best for portraits and social media
- FIMI X8 Mini — Best alternatively cheap drone
- BetaFPV Cetus Pro-Kit — Best for newbies
How to choose the best drone
What are the things to consider as a video creative before purchasing a drone? — There are a number of characteristics to look for among the best drones before settling on a certain brand or model.
Before I go into the features and characteristics of my top 10 best drones for 2022, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Durability
- Control
- Battery Life
- Camera Quality
- Price
So let’s now go through each factor and how it can assist you in your creative work.
Durability
Even with the best drones, damages are unavoidable and accidents can happen at any time.
Therefore, make sure that the drones you choose from have protective features to keep the insides from shattering if they were crashed accidentally.
Also, evaluate if parts of your drone are replaceable and whether your provider can quickly repair any possible damage in the future.
Control
Some drones use joysticks to operate, conversely, some are controlled using apps.
As well as the joysticks control quadcopter’s direction going to the left or right and the drone’s rotation.
As a result, if you are looking for a drone controller, aim for a drone with a camera that fits comfortably in your hands.
Battery Life
The best drones should have a good and long battery life, but that is not the usual case.
The majority of drones take about half an hour to fully charge, but can only last for a few minutes.
Therefore, choose a drone with a dependable battery and capable of lasting a respectable period of time.
Camera Quality
The best drones in 2022 should have resolutions of at least 4k, if not more.
On the other hand, capable drones that capture camera quality in 1080p are still good options.
These devices are recommended not for professional videographers, but for amateurs and enthusiasts shooters.
Price
As creatives your needs and preferences are important, but your purchasing power is limited by your budget.
There are many drones available on a tight budget that can nevertheless deliver high-quality footage.
One of the reasons I specifically compile this list for you is to assist you in determining which drone is most suited to your preferences, needs, and budget.
With this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best drones for 2022 for you, which you can find below.
1. DJI Mavic 3
If you are looking for the most powerful compact drone on the market? — It’s the DJI Mavic 3.
DJI Mavic 3 is the best drone overall in the market.
If you want the most high-end camera, this is particularly a perfect fit for you.
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It of course comes with a dual-camera system that includes a 162-millimeter telephoto lens and a 20-megapixel Four Thirds sensor.
The Mavic 3 is equipped with a micro 4/3 Hasselblad sensor as well as a 1/2-inch CMOS camera that can capture video at up to 5.1K/50 fps.
We also like the fact that the Mavic 3 can fly for up to 41 minutes, which is a long time for a drone.
Additionally, it has excellent object tracking and 360-degree obstacle avoidance, allowing you to record exactly what you want without fear of colliding with anything.
The DJI Mavic 3 is truly perfect for creatives who want the ultimate camera drone without having to buy a camera and drone separately.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 20MP
Video Output Resolution: 1920x1080 Pixels
Video Capture Resolution: 4k HD, FHD 1080p
Dimension: 347.5×283×107.7 mm
Weight: 895g
Max Flight: 28 minutes
Pros
- Amazing 4k footage
- Good battery life
Cons
- More expensive than rivals
- No SDK support
2. DJI Air 2S
The DJI Air 2S is indeed one of the most popular DJI products.
DJI Air 2S is the best drone for professionals.
This shooter not only includes a useful digital zoom option but is also very lightweight.
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Contrary to other DJI drones, the Air 2S is simple to pilot as well as floats in mid-air like a statue.
In fact, its shooting capabilities provide you with some more creative versatility, which is one of the best things about this device.
Besides, the Air 2S is capable of 5.4K/30fps and 4K/60fps video, thanks to its 1-inch image sensor and huge 2.4m pixels.
This model gives you a 20MP 1-inch sensor by combining the greatest characteristics of both the Mavic 2 Pro and the Mavic Air 2.
Certainly, DJI Air 2S is a wonderful choice for professional filmmakers who are fond of using the best drones in their projects.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12 MP
Video Output Resolution: 5.4K HD
Video Capture Resolution: 5.4K/30fps
Dimension: 7.2x10.0x3.0 inches
Weight: 20.99 Ounces
Max Flight: 31 minutes
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact
Cons
- No side sensors
- Shorter flight length
3. DJI Mini 2
If you are looking for a drone that is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, DJI Mini 2 is a perfect choice.
DJI Mini 2 is the best drone for student film makers.
It is so simple to fly and can also endure up to half an hour in the air.
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This DJI Mini 2 shoots in 4K/30 fps and is lightweight, thus, making it ideal for student filmmakers and aspiring content creators.
In addition, it comes with a large number of beginner-friendly QuickShot settings and performs executes pre-programmed motions.
The Mini 2 also doesn’t require an FAA license, making it a far more accessible camera drone to acquire.
It’s perfect for DJI’s drones under $500 in the market at the moment, and so far, the cheapest one.
Therefore, look for DJI Mini 2 if you are a beginner drone user looking for a more accessible drone for everyone.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12 MP
Video Output Resolution: 4K 30fps
Video Capture Resolution: 4K HD
Dimension: 55×32×22 in. (Folded)
Weight: 8.78 Ounces
Max Flight: 31 min
Pros
- Good battery life
- Affordable price
Cons
- Susceptible to wind
- Not for pros
4. DJI Mavic Air2
The Mavic Air 2 is indeed DJI’s mid-tier entry in the Mavic Air family of compact, foldable best drones.
DJI Mavic Air2 is the best value drone in the market.
This device is also small enough to fit within most photographers’ gear bags.
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Of course, the DJI Mavic Air 2 can be stowed in most camera bags without scrimping on its safety features.
It can as well receive ADS-B signals, allowing you to be more aware of approaching aircraft.
Likewise, the Mavic Air 2 has a flight time of 34 minutes on a fully charged battery.
It also contains a number of built-in features that promote flight safety.
The DJI Mavic Air 2 is surely the ideal drone for creative professionals looking to record 4K footage without spending more.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12 MP
Video Output Resolution: 4K HD
Video Capture Resolution: 4K HD
Dimension: 7.4x3.8x3.3 in. (Folded)
Weight: 20.11 Ounces
Max Flight: 34 min
Pros
- Excellent output quality
- Exceptional battery life
Cons
- No EV control wheel
- Files are difficult to transfer
5. Ryze Tech Tello
The Ryze Tello is a great drone for first-time flyers because it is simple, lightweight, and economical.
Ryze Tech Tello is the best drone for beginners..
Similarly, you can transform it into an educational device using Scratch.
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The Ryze Tech Tello, created by DJI, is also a nice, economical drone for first-time fliers at just under $100.
This device is not just easy to maneuver but also has a 5-minute flight time.
Therefore, if you are planning to buy Ryze Tello, make sure you have plenty of batteries on hand.
This kid-marketed device, however, comes with a dated 720p camera that takes decent films and photographs.
If you are a beginner and planning to use one of the best drones for your creative works anytime sooner, then try Ryze Tech Tello.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 5 MP
Video Output Resolution: 1280x720 pixels
Video Capture Resolution: HD 720p
Dimension: 3.86 x 3.66 x 1.61 inches
Weight: 2.82 Ounces
Max Flight: 13 minutes
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Easy to use
Cons
- Short flight time
- No separate controller
6. Parrot Anafi
The Anafi is certainly a decent folding drone from Parrot and is a great alternative for drone users.
Parrot Anafi is the best drone for travel.
If you are not fond of using DJI camera drones, then the Parrot Anafi might be for you
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This Parrot Anafi particularly boasts a feature that none of DJI’s drones have: a rotating camera.
The camera can rotate up, thus, allowing you to take film from the drone’s view above and below.
Anafi is also a compact and portable drone device making it a perfect companion for your travels.
Although it lacks collision detection, which DJI’s similarly priced best drones have. Overall, it’s a fantastic option.
So, if you’re searching for a compact non-DJI camera, then the Parrot Anafi is a great option.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 21 MP
Video Output Resolution: 4K
Video Capture Resolution: 4K HD
Dimension: 9.4 x 6.9 x 2.6 inches
Weight: 2.64 pounds
Max Flight: 25 minutes
Pros
- Amazing video
- Cheaper than DJI’s
Cons
- Collision detection unavailable
- Weak controller signal
7. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom
If you’re looking for a drone to capture facial expressions and movements from distance, then Mavic 2 Zoom is the best option.
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is the best drone for 5k footages.
The device’s DJI Smart Controller indeed provides good visibility and vibrant color even in direct sunlight.
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The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom was released years ago, but its 162mm telephoto lens remains unique as always.
This device is also a good choice if you want to shoot close-up photographs of objects even o a legal distance of 50m.
The Mavic 2 Zoom has only a 12MP drone camera, but still, the images and footage should appear respectable.
The DJI drones’ autonomous flight modes, such as ‘Hype lapse’, are all well-implemented and simple to master.
If you are in need of a drone device that can provide you with 5k footage, the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is surely an excellent choice.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12 MP
Video Output Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels
Video Capture Resolution: 4k
Dimension: 8.4×3.6×3.3 in. (Folded)
Weight: 905 Grams
Max Flight: 31 min
Pros
- Excellent optical zoom
- Navigation made easier
Cons
- Expensive
- Lower MP sensor
8. DJI Mavic Mini
If all you need is a basic and simple drone for your creative needs, then DJI Mavic Mini can do the work for you.
DJI Mavic Mini is the best portable drone for creatives shooters.
This is a great deal, especially for novices
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Mavic Mini is almost as light as a smartphone, weighing less than 0.55 pounds.
In fact, you can fly this camera drone without having to register it with the government in the United States and Canada.
The Mavic Mini is also capable of 12MP aerial photographs and 2.7K HD video recording.
The 30-minute battery life and three-axis gimbal, on the other hand, make for smooth and gorgeous aerial footage.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a 4K camera drone, DJI Mavic Mini is not recommended for you.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12 MP
Video Output Resolution: 2.7K
Video Capture Resolution: 2.7K, FHD
Dimension: 5.5×3.2×2.2 in. (Folded)
Weight: 0.75 Grams
Max Flight: 30 min
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not compatible with all devices
- Weak connectivity
9. PowerVision Poweregg X
The ability to land on water clearly distinguishes the PowerVision Poweregg X from other competing best drones.
PowerVision Poweregg X is the most durable and most sturdy drone model.
It has a flight time of just under half an hour and also flies intuitively.
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Poweregg X particularly includes a removable waterproof shell and pontoons.
Consequently, it can land and take off from ponds and other bodies of water.
The Poweregg X’s image and video quality are excellent, conversely, they fall short of those provided by DJI.
It is a durable drone and certainly ideal for aerial shots with a lot of movement.
Hence, if you are looking for a high-performance drone for your creative works try PowerVision Poweregg X.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12 MP
Video Output Resolution: 4K
Video Capture Resolution: 4K HD
Weight: 1.9 Pounds
Max Flight: 30 minutes
Pros
- Versatile
- Super stable
Cons
- Took too long to calibrate
- Weak connectivity
10. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0
DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is a indeed good choice for professionals who require something tough and dependable in windy circumstances.
DJI Phantom 4 Pro v2.0 is the best premium drone.
This shooter is in fact ideal for combating windy weather conditions.
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When it comes to flying in inclement weather, the DJI Phantom 4 excels.
This model has a 20MP 1-inch sensor as well as a staggering 4K frame rate.
Consequently, DJI Phantom 4 is perfect if you’re filming in the jungles, deserts, or rainy woodlands.
Besides, it has a built-in camera capable of shooting 4K video and a 5350mAh battery.
So if you are looking for a premium drone for your next project, you can rely on DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0.
Specifications
Video Output Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels
Video Capture Resolution: 2K DCI 1080p
Dimension: 1ft (Diagonal Size)
Weight: 3 Pounds
Max Flight: 30 min
Pros
- Excellent quality
- Great obstacle avoidance feature
Cons
- The built-in screen is not powerful
- Weak controller connectivity
11. Autel EVO Lite+
If you’re looking for a drone that balances price, features, and camera performance, then the Autel EVO Lite+ might surely be the best choice for you.
Best drone for videographers.
Featuring a 20MP, one-inch sensor, this versatile UAV not only has an equivalent focal length of 29mm but an aperture ranging from f/2.8 to f/11, ideal for video shooting.
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Furthermore, it captures photos in JPEG and RAW formats, videos in Standard and Log Color in 5.4k at up to 30fps, 4K at up to 60fps, 2.7K at up to 60fps, and HD at up to 120fps.
The EVO Lite+ also features obstacle avoidance and GPS positioning, which makes it incredibly easy and even safe to fly the drone.
Additionally, it can fly up to 40 minutes due to its 6175 mAh flight batteries with speeds of up to 40mph.
The trade-off of the EVO Lite+ has improved image quality, more advanced camera functionality, as well as more power.
Besides that, it features a folding design that makes it much more portable for transportation and storage.
The Autel EVO Lite+ is indeed perfect for creatives who want a balance of price and features in the ultimate camera drone.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 20MP
Video Output Resolution: 1920x1080 Pixels
Video Capture Resolution: Up to 5.4K
Dimension: Folded 210×123×95mm / Unfolded 427×384×95mm
Weight: 835g
Max Flight: 28 minutes
Pros
- Up to 5.4K video
- Adjustable aperture
Cons
- Color only available in Auto-Controller
12. DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro is the latest version of the popular Mini series and is in fact perfect for portrait shots and social media
Best drone for portraits and social media
It also addresses several shortcomings of previous models to make it the best DJI Mini to date.
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The Mini 3 Pro is a pleasure to carry around because it’s so small and lightweight.
Thanks to dual native ISO capturing technology, the camera features a 12.1MP 1/1.3-inch sensor capable of shooting 48MP Raw files and JPEGs, consequently, delivering stunning image quality with exceptional noise handling.
Moreover, Mini 3 Pro is extremely low light capable thanks to its 24mm equivalent lens and fast f/1.7 aperture.
In addition, the Tri-directional Obstacle Sensing System uses forward, backward and downward sensors; coupled with Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems 4.0 (APAS 4.0).
Likewise, video can be captured in 4K up to 60fps, 2.7K up to 60fps, and FHD up to 120fps with Normal and D-Cinelike color profiles available.
If you’re a creative who’s looking for professional-looking videos with an automated flight pattern, then the DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro is just what you need.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12.1MP
Battery: 2453mAh
Video Capture Resolution: 4K
Dimension: Folded 145x90x62mm / Unfolded 171x245x62mm
Weight: 249g
Pros
- Topnotch image quality
- Has obstacle avoidance
Cons
- Pricier than other Mavic Mini models
13. DJI Avata
The DJI Avata drone is surely the best first-person view, FPV, drone on the market, capable of recording 4K video at 60 fps in ultra HD resolution.
Best drone for portraits and social media
The Avata drones can be flown in manual or aerial modes, hence, the holy grail of FPV flight.
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However, this makes FPV drones hard to fly, which is why DJI ships the Avata kits with a Motion Controller that’s easy to use even for beginners.
The Avata also features a cinewhoop style design where prop guards are built into the airframe. This will protect the propellers in a crash and is best suited for advanced pilots.
It indeed has excellent video quality from the 48MP 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor, the f/2.8 lens with a fixed focus from 0.6m to infinity, and the 12.7mm equivalent focal length.
Although you can also shoot photos in JPEG format, this isn’t the type of drone for stills photography. The Avata is designed for shooting immersive FPV videos.
So if you are an advanced drone pilot looking for the best drones FPV, the DJI Avata is your best bet.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 48MP
Battery: 2420 mAh
Video resolution: Up to 4K
Dimensions: 180x180x80mm
Weight: 410g
Pros
- Excellent video quality
- Easy to fly
Cons
- Not suitable for still photography.
- Requires additional controller for manual flight.
14. FIMI X8 Mini
The FIMI X8 Mini is a more affordable alternative drone that shoots high-quality 4K videos with lots of detail.
Best alternatively cheap drone
Even though I think the DJI Mini 2 is the better mini drone, the X8 Mini is still an excellent option if you can’t afford it.
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Despite the fact that the dynamic range is somewhat limited due to its tiny 1/2.6-inch sensor, its companion app, while a bit rough around the edges, offers a variety of automated flight modes and is stable.
Additionally, it can be used in 5.8GHz Wi-Fi flight mode.
Furthermore, the X8 Mini can be charged with USB-C and is bundled with a controller that is actually more solidly constructed than the drone.
Overall, the FIMI X8 Mini offers good value for money and is a worthy DJI alternative. This is because, even though it isn’t exactly a tech minnow, it is a Xiaomi product.
So if you cannot afford a DJI but want one of the best drones that get the job done, then go for the FIMI X8 Mini.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12MP
Battery: 3500mAh
Video resolution: Up to 4K
Dimensions: 145.0 x 56.0 x 85.0 mm
Weight: 258g
Pros
- Decent image quality
- Easy to fly
Cons
- Less elegant than DJI Mini 2.
- No front collision sensors.
15. BetaFPV Cetus Pro-Kit
An all-in-one BetaFPV Cetus Pro-Kit provides complete functionality at an affordable price.
Best drone for newbies
Beginners will find it easy to fly a drone with this package. This is because it includes goggles, batteries, and a console controller for practice in simulators, as well as a full FPV setup.
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The Cetus, which is remarkably light, is built tough enough to withstand most impacts when compared to FPV flight.
Furthermore, Turtle Mode means it can right itself remotely, while three-speed settings and three flight modes give learners the flexibility to improve.
The Cetus kit has two main drawbacks, in addition to nausea associated with FPV flight.
Manual/Acro is indeed the most challenging and requires careful control and throttle regulation, whereas Normal is the easiest to fly.
Overall, there is no option to record stills or video, and the battery life is limited to just 4–5 minutes per charge, so you need a backup battery.
However, if you’re looking for a cheap way to begin exploring FPV, then BetaFPV Cetus Pro-Kit is the best option for you.
Specifications
Camera Resolution: 12MP
Battery: BT2.0 450 mAh
Video resolution: N/A
Dimensions: 117×117×35mm
Weight: 45.8g
Pros
- Affordable FPV kit
- Controller and FPV compatible
Cons
- Battery life is short.
- Doesn’t shoot videos or photos.
Conclusions
Buying the best drones online has never been easier, and may need a license to own and operate a drone.
You will also need to follow the rules of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
What you should consider in buying the best drone for you?
The best drone for you is the one that perfectly fits your preferences and needs.
The best ones are those that can meet your creative work requirements.
As you develop in filmmaking, you will gain a better understanding of what features and benefits are most important to you.
As a creative professional, you require one of the best drones with a camera that can provide you with the high-quality photographs and footage you require at work.
If you have the financial means to purchase the most versatile, durable, and trustworthy drone cameras like Mavic 2 Zoom and DJI Mavic 3, do so.
It is a solid work investment that you can rely on for the longest time.
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