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Top 20 Compact Drones

last updated: 07/18/2025

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1
FIMI Logo
MINI 3
Best Value
FIMI MINI 3
(Release date: 04/2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The FIMI Mini 3 (a Xiaomi brand) is an ultra-lightweight drone weighing just 245g. It features a 1/2-inch stacked CMOS sensor capable of capturing 48 MP photos and recording 4K video at 60fps. The f/1.6 aperture and 24mm equivalent lens deliver strong performance in various lighting conditions, while a 3-axis gimbal ensures stable footage.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

Powered by a 2200 mAh battery, the FIMI Mini 3 offers up to 32 min. of flight time. It reaches speeds of 18 m/s and supports video transmission up to 9 km.

89%
Usability
84%
Build Quality
90%
Camera
92%
Value
FIMI MINI 3

200mm / 7.9"

245g / 8.6oz

USD 299 to 350
Get the FIMI Mini 3 at:
2
DJI Logo
MINI 4 Pro
DJI Mini 4 Pro
(Release date: 09/2023)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI Mini 4 Pro packs pro-level features into a lightweight, sub-250g drone. With a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, 48 MP resolution, and a bright f/1.7 lens, it captures stunning 4K/60fps video—even in low light. A 3-axis gimbal ensures ultra-smooth footage, while the 82.1° FOV wide-angle lens delivers epic views.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

Enjoy up to 34 min. of flight time, a max range of 10 km, and speeds up to 21 m/s. Perfect for creators who want serious performance in a small package.

96%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
93%
Camera
90%
Value
DJI Mini 4 Pro

245mm / 9.6"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 759 to 1,159
Get the Mini 4 Pro at:
3
Autel Logo
EVO Nano+
AUTEL EVO Nano+
(Release date: 2022-2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The Autel EVO Nano+ is built for creators who want premium imaging in a lightweight package. Featuring a large 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor, 50 MP resolution, and a fast f/1.9 aperture, it captures crisp 4K/30fps video and FullHD at 60fps. The 3-axis gimbal ensures stable footage every time.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With a flight time of up to 28 min., a max range of 17 km (11 miles), and speeds up to 15 m/s, the EVO Nano+ offers pro-level performance—still under 250g.

92%
Usability
93%
Build Quality
93%
Camera
90%
Value
AUTEL EVO Nano+

210mm / 8.3"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 679 to 799
Get the EVO Nano+ at:
4
DJI Logo
MINI 3 Pro
DJI Mini 3 Pro
(Release date: 05/2022)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI Mini 3 Pro combines a large 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, 48 MP resolution, and a fast f/1.7 aperture to deliver impressive 4K/30fps and 2.7K/60fps video. Its 3-axis gimbal ensures ultra-smooth, stable footage—even in challenging conditions.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With up to 34 min. of flight time, an 8 km (5 mile) transmission range, and a top speed of 15 m/s, the Mini 3 Pro brings advanced performance in a lightweight, sub-250g body made for serious creators on the move.

93%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
91%
Camera
90%
Value
DJI Mini 3

245mm / 9.6"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 759 to 870
Discontinued
5
DJI Logo
FLIP
DJI FLIP
(Release date: 01/2025)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI FLIP brings a fresh take on aerial filming with its innovative design and powerful imaging. It features a 1/1.3" CMOS sensor, 48 MP resolution, and a fast f/1.7 aperture—delivering ultra-smooth 4K video at up to 100fps. A 3-axis gimbal ensures cinematic stability, while the 24 mm equivalent focal length captures wide, dynamic scenes.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With a flight time of up to 31 min., 8 km transmission range, and a max speed of 12 m/s, the DJI FLIP is built for creators who want high performance and unique perspectives in a compact package.

93%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
91%
Camera
89%
Value
DJI FLIP

280mm / 11"

249g / 8.8oz

selfie drone
USD 439 to 779
Get the DJI FLIP at:
6
Autel Logo
EVO Nano
AUTEL EVO Nano
(Release date: 11/2020)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The AUTEL EVO Nano is a lightweight, portable drone featuring a 1/2" CMOS sensor with 48 MP resolution and an 85° field of view. It offers a 23 mm equivalent focal length and an f/2.8 aperture, supported by a 3-axis gimbal. The drone can record in 4K at 30fps and FullHD at 60fps.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

Powered by a 2250 mAh battery, the EVO Nano provides up to 28 minutes of flight time, can reach speeds of up to 15 m/s and offers a maximum transmission distance of 17 km.

92%
Usability
93%
Build Quality
89%
Camera
86%
Value
AUTEL EVO Nano

210mm / 8.3"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 550 to 799
Get the AUTEL Nano at:
7
DJI Logo
MINI 3
DJI Mini 3
(Release date: 05/2022)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI Mini 3 features a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with 48 MP resolution and a bright f/1.7 aperture—ideal for capturing sharp 4K/30fps and smooth 2.7K/60fps video. Its 3-axis gimbal keeps footage stable and cinematic, even on the move.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

Enjoy up to 38 minutes of flight time, a range of 6 km (4 miles), and a top speed of 15 m/s —all in a compact, under 250g drone that’s perfect for travel and content creation.

81%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
91%
Camera
88%
Value
DJI Mini 3

245mm / 9.6"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 419 to 589
Get the DJI Mini 3 at:
8
Potensic Logo
ATOM 2
Potensic ATOM 2
(Release date: 02/2025)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The Potensic ATOM 2 is an ultra-lightweight drone, weighing just 249g. It features a 1/2-inch Sony CMOS sensor, capturing 48 MP photos and recording 4K HDR video at 30fps. A 3-axis gimbal ensures stable footage, while the f/1.8 aperture supports good low-light performance.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With a 2230 mAh battery, it offers up to 32 min. of flight time. The drone reaches speeds of 19 m/s and transmits video up to 10 km via PixSync 4.0. Intelligent flight modes and AI subject tracking are also included.

85%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
86%
Camera
91%
Value
Potensic ATOM 2

210mm / 8.3"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 360 to 486
Get the ATOM 2 at:
9
DJI Logo
MINI 2 SE
DJI Mini 2 SE
(Release date: 03/2023)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI Mini 2 SE is perfect for beginners and casual flyers. It features a 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor with 12 MP resolution and shoots smooth 2.7K/30fps video, stabilized by a 3-axis gimbal for clean, steady footage.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With up to 34 min. of flight time, a 6 km (4 mile) max range, and a top speed of 15 m/s, the Mini 2 SE offers solid performance in a compact, under-250g design that’s easy to take anywhere.

81%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
82%
Camera
87%
Value
DJI Mini 2 SE

203mm / 8"

246g / 8.7oz

USD 299 to 449
Get the Mini 2 SE at:
10
HOVERAir Logo
X1 PRO MAX
HOVERAir X1 PRO MAX
(Release date: 11/2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The HOVERAir X1 PRO MAX is a compact, high-performance drone equipped with a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor delivering 48 MP photos and a 107° field of view. It supports 4K video recording at up to 120 fps. Stabilization is handled by a 2-axis gimbal combined with electronic image stabilization (EIS) to ensure steady shots.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

The drone is powered by a 1920 mAh battery, providing up to 16 minutes of flight time. It can reach a maximum speed of 60 km/h and withstand wind speeds up to Level 5. Max. transmission distance: 500 m

90%
Usability
96%
Build Quality
87%
Camera
86%
Value
HOVERAir X1 PRO MAX

173mm / 6.8"

193g / 6.8oz

selfie drone
USD 699 to 1,669
Get the X1 PRO MAX at:
11
DJI Logo
MINI 4K
DJI Mini 4K
(Release date: 04/2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI Mini 4K is a compact and lightweight drone, weighing just 246g. It features a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing 12 MP photos and recording 4K videos at up to 30fps. The 3-axis mechanical gimbal ensures smooth and stable footage.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With a 2250 mAh battery, it offers up to 31 min. of flight time. The drone supports a transmission range of up to 10 km and includes intelligent flight modes such as QuickShots and Panorama.

81%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
80%
Camera
87%
Value
DJI Mini 4K

203mm / 8"

238g / 8.4oz

USD 249 to 449
Get the DJI Mini 4K at:
12
HOVERAir Logo
X1 PRO
HOVERAir X1 PRO
(Release date: 11/2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The HOVERAir X1 PRO is a compact and user-friendly drone equipped with a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor, offering 12 MP resolution and a 104° field of view. It supports crisp 4K video recording at up to 60 fps and features a 2-axis gimbal with electronic image stabilization (EIS) for smooth and stable footage.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

Powered by a 1920 mAh battery, the X1 PRO provides up to 16 minutes of flight time. It can reach a top speed of 60 km/h and resists wind speeds up to Level 5. The maximum transmission distance is 500 meters.

88%
Usability
96%
Build Quality
85%
Camera
87%
Value
HOVERAir X1 PRO

173mm / 6.8"

192g / 6.8oz

selfie drone
USD 499 to 1,469
Get the X1 PRO at:
13
FIMI Logo
MINI 3 SE
FIMI MINI 3 SE
(Release date: 10/2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The FIMI Mini 3 SE (a Xiaomi brand) features a 1/2.5-inch CMOS sensor with 12 MP resolution and a 2-axis EIS gimbal for smooth 4K/30fps video. With an f/2.2 aperture, it delivers solid image quality for casual creators and hobbyists alike.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

Enjoy up to 34 min. of flight time, a max range of 9 km (6 miles), and speeds up to 16 m/s — all in a compact, beginner-friendly drone under 250g.

82%
Usability
84%
Build Quality
75%
Camera
83%
Value
FIMI MINI 3 SE

200mm / 7.9"

245g / 8.6oz

USD 229 to 249
Get the FIMI Mini 3 at:
14
FIMI Logo
X8 Mini V2
FIMI X8 Mini V2
(Release date: 05/2023)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The FIMI X8 Mini V2 (a Xiaomi brand) features a 1/2.5" CMOS sensor with 12 MP resolution and an f/2.0 aperture, delivering stabilized 4K/30fps video via a 3-axis mechanical gimbal. It's designed for smooth footage and solid detail in a compact form.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With up to 34 min. of flight time, a max range of 9 km (6 miles), and a top speed of 16 m/s, this 245 g drone balances performance and portability—perfect for everyday creators on the go.

82%
Usability
84%
Build Quality
74%
Camera
83%
Value
FIMI X8 Mini V2

200mm / 7.9"

245g / 8.6oz

USD 299 to 350
Discontinued
15
Potensic Logo
ATOM 4K
Potensic ATOM 4K
(Release date: 08/2023)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The Potensic ATOM 4K is a lightweight drone built for smooth aerial video. It features a 1/3" CMOS sensor with 12 MP resolution, paired with a 3-axis gimbal to capture stable 4K/30fps footage. The f/2.2 aperture delivers decent clarity in well-lit conditions.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With up to 32 min. of flight time, a 6 km (4 mile) range, and a top speed of 16 m/s, the ATOM 4K is a solid entry-level choice for casual creators and travelers alike.

82%
Usability
87%
Build Quality
70%
Camera
78%
Value
Potensic ATOM 4K

210mm / 8.3"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 270 to 410
Get the ATOM 4K at:
16
DJI Logo
NEO
DJI NEO
(Release date: 09/2024)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The DJI NEO is a compact camera featuring a 1/2" CMOS sensor with 12 MP effective resolution and a wide 117.6° field of view. It offers a 14 mm equivalent focal length with a bright f/2.8 aperture. The camera supports 4K video recording at up to 30 fps and uses a 1-axis gimbal with electronic image stabilization (EIS) to keep footage steady.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

The DJI NEO is equipped with a 1435 mAh battery, offering a maximum flight time of up to 18 min. It can reach a top speed of 16 m/s.

69%
Usability
92%
Build Quality
66%
Camera
74%
Value
DJI NEO

130mm / 5.1"

135g / 4.8oz

selfie drone
USD 199 to 418
Get the DJI NEO at:
17
HOVERAir Logo
X1
HOVERAir X1
(Release date: 12/2023)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The HOVERAir X1 is a lightweight, portable drone featuring a 1/2" CMOS sensor with 48 MP resolution and an 85° field of view. It offers a 23 mm equivalent focal length and an f/2.8 aperture, supported by a 2-axis gimbal for smooth, stable footage. The drone records in 4K at up to 30 fps and Full HD at up to 60 fps.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

The HOVERAir X1 is powered by a 2250 mAh battery, providing up to 28 minutes of flight time. It reaches a top speed of 15 m/s and can resist wind speeds up to Level 5. The maximum transmission distance is 17 km.

69%
Usability
90%
Build Quality
71%
Camera
69%
Value
HOVERAir

145mm / 5.7"

125g / 4.4oz

selfie drone
USD 450 to 659
Get the X1 at:
18
Potensic Logo
ATOM SE
Potensic ATOM SE
(Release date: 10/2022)
This drone was not tested in real-world conditions!

The Potensic Atom SE features a 1/3" CMOS sensor with 12 MP resolution and shoots 4K/30fps video. A 2-axis gimbal with EIS stabilization helps deliver smoother footage, making it a solid pick for beginners looking to get started with aerial content.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With a flight time of up to 31 min., a max range of 4 km (2.5 miles), and a top speed of 16 m/s, the Atom SE offers a good balance of features in a budget-friendly, sub-250g drone.

70%
Usability
87%
Build Quality
62%
Camera
69%
Value
Potensic ATOM SE

210mm / 8.3"

249g / 8.8oz

USD 280 to 390
Discontinued
19
Holy Stone Logo
HS360S
Holy Stone HS360S
(Release date: 02/2023)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The Holy Stone HS360S is a beginner-friendly drone featuring a 1/3" CMOS sensor and 4K video recording at 20fps. While resolution and frame rate are modest, its 2-axis gimbal with electronic stabilization helps capture smoother footage than most entry-level models.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With up to 20 min. of flight time, a range of 3 km (2 miles), and a lightweight design, the HS360S is a solid choice for first-time flyers exploring aerial photography on a budget.

25%
Usability
72%
Build Quality
29%
Camera
45%
Value
Holy Stone HS360S

210mm / 8.3"

246g / 8.7oz

USD 200 to 220
Get the HS360S at:
20
Ruko Logo
F11 MINI
Ruko F11 MINI
(Release date: 07/2022)
This drone was tested in real-world conditions!

The RUKO F11 Mini is a compact drone designed for newcomers, featuring a 2-axis gimbal and 12 MP camera capable of recording 2.7K video at 25fps. While limited in resolution, it still provides stable footage for casual use and learning.

Waypoints Hyperlapse Follow-Me Obstacle detection

With a flight time of up to 22 min., a max range of 1640 ft (500 meters), and a lightweight, foldable design, the F11 Mini is a solid entry point into drone flying.

24%
Usability
49%
Build Quality
32%
Camera
44%
Value
Ruko F11 MINI

205mm / 8.1"

245g / 8.6oz

USD 180 to 280
Get the F11 MINI at: