Earn your wings with the best beginner drones

Because we’ve flown so many drones, we know what makes a good option for beginners. The best drones for first-time pilots should be fun to use, easy to fly and capable of sharp aerial images. You’ll find plenty of drones like that in the list below: from lightweight folding models to automated selfie drones, there’s something in the list below for every need and budget.

If we had to choose a drone to learn with, we’d go for the DJI Mini 4K. With a tidy design, intuitive controls and automated modes, it’s a fantastic model for starting out – provided you’re happy to fly without collision avoidance sensors. If you want those, you’ll need to spend more on the DJI Mini 4 Pro. There are also even cheaper options for beginners, such as the Ryze Tello.

Our round-up is based on extensive testing, conducted by our expert team. We’ve summarized the results here, to make it easy for you to find your ideal beginner drone.

Top 3 picks

If you’re ready to get off the ground, the summary below will give you an instant overview of the top beginner drones. When you land on one which suits your needs and budget, you can use the links to fly down to our full write-ups.

1. DJI Mini 4K

The best beginner drone overall.

With a lightweight folding design, intuitive controls and 4K video, the DJI Mini 4K offers top value for novice drone pilots.

2. Ryze Tello

The best budget beginner drone.

An affordable flyer with a tiny design, the Ryze Tello is a top choice for beginners who want a cheap drone for learning the basics, even if it drifts in wind.

3. DJI Mini 4 Pro

The best premium beginner drone.

If you’re a beginner with a bigger budget, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is the undisputed sub-250g drone, with incredible flight and safety features.

Best by use-case

4. Autel Evo Nano+

The best beginner DJI alternative.

If you’re looking for something different to DJI drones, the Autel Eco Nano+ is an impressive beginner drone with a big sensor and collision detection.

5. BetaFPV Cetus X

The best beginner FPV drone.

A complete FPV drone kit, we think the BetaFPV Cetus X is the best choice for beginners who want to experience the fun of first-person flight.

6. Potensic Atom

The best DJI Mini 4K alternative.

An affordable alternative to our favorite drone, the 3-axis mechanically stabilized 4K Potensic Atom offers plenty of bang for your buck.

7. HoverAir X1 Pro

The best for aerial selfies.

A tiny drone with built-in propeller guards that takes off and lands from the palm of your hand, ideal for 4K aerial selfies.

8. DJI Neo

The best for multi-control.

Similar to the HoverAir X1, the Neo is DJI's most exciting drone for years with multi-control options, including; controller-free, FPV, remote and app.

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