Drones have become increasingly popular in recent years, transforming from niche gadgets to accessible tools for photography, videography, and even racing. For beginners interested in entering the world of drones, it is important to find a user-friendly option that helps them hone their skills without breaking the bank.

A great beginner drone should have helpful features such as a built-in camera and GPS, providing a well-rounded experience and enabling new pilots to explore various aspects of drone flying.

With numerous options in the market, selecting the right drone can be overwhelming. The best beginner drones should have a quality camera, providing the ability to capture stunning photos and videos, and GPS for safe navigation, as well as keeping track of the drone’s location. Additionally, beginner drones should be easy to fly and offer a safe and reliable flight experience.

When choosing a beginner drone, it’s essential to consider factors such as flight time, controller type, and the drone’s overall build quality. A longer flight time allows for more practice and enjoyment, while a sturdy build can withstand occasional crashes that might occur during the learning process.

In addition, the features and ease of use of the controller are crucial for beginners to control their drones with confidence.

Taking all of these factors into account, we spent considerable time researching and testing various beginner drones with cameras and GPS available in 2024 to find the perfect options for those just starting their drone journey. Our top picks offer the ideal balance of quality, features, and ease of use, setting new drone pilots up for success and fun.

Best Beginner Drones with Camera and GPS in 2024

We have compiled a list of the top beginner drones with camera and GPS available in 2024. Explore our picks below to find the perfect drone to kickstart your aerial photography journey.

Holy Stone GPS Drone with 4K UHD Camera for Adults Beginner HS360S

A great choice for beginners looking to capture stunning aerial footage without the hassle of FAA or Remote ID registration.

Pros

• Lightweight and avoids FAA/Remote ID registration
• 4K UHD Camera with advanced GalaxyCore sensor
• User-friendly control system with multiple intelligent functions

Cons

• Limited flight time of 20 minutes
• Possible learning curve for complete novices
• Continuous app upgrades may be overwhelming for some

As drone enthusiasts, we were excited to try out the Holy Stone GPS Drone with a 4K UHD Camera for Adults Beginner HS360S. Weighing less than 250g, this beginner-friendly drone does not require FAA or Remote ID registration, making it a perfect option for capturing stunning footage on the go.

Equipped with a 1/3” CMOS GalaxyCore sensor and 4K 85° wide-angle camera, the HS360S captures impressive 3840x2160P photos and 4K videos. We particularly liked the remote control or app-adjustable camera angle, offering a unique perspective on our aerial shots. The design also incorporates advanced connection technology, allowing smartphone connection through a single data cable, making real-time image streaming possible without WiFi.

We were impressed with the Holy Stone Advanced Intelligent Control System, boasting a control range of up to 10,000 feet for the HS360S. However, the drone’s flight time is limited to 20 minutes per charge, so we suggest investing in additional batteries for longer shooting sessions.

The GPS function and return-home feature offer stability during flight and the assurance that the drone will find its way back to you if the battery runs low or the connection breaks up.

The upgraded Holy Stone control system provides beginner mode and optical flow positioning, making it easier for novices to practice drone control. With intelligent recording modes like “Spiral Up,” “Catapult,” and “1-Tap Ascension,” even inexperienced users can capture stunning footage effortlessly. We also enjoyed functions like Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, and Point of Interest, which enhanced our flying experience.

The Holy Stone GPS Drone with 4K UHD Camera for Adults Beginner HS360S offers an excellent balance of functionality and ease of use for beginners looking to capture stunning aerial footage.

With a lightweight design and user-friendly control system, this drone is worth considering for anyone new to the drone world. Just be prepared to invest in some spare batteries and dedicate time to learning its various features.

TENSSENX Foldable GPS Drone with 4K UHD Camera

The TENSSENX Foldable GPS Drone is a fantastic choice for beginners looking for an affordable, high-quality drone with GPS and camera capabilities.

Pros

• Ultra-clear 4K camera ensures stunning footage
• Powerful GPS module and brushless motors for stable flight
• User-friendly with features like automatic take-off and headless mode

Cons

• Limited flight time with each battery (only 30 minutes)
• Wi-Fi connectivity may have some lag
• Heavy for a beginner drone (weighs as much as a can of Coke)

As beginners in the world of drone photography, we appreciated the TENSSENX Foldable GPS Drone. The drone’s 4K ultra-clear camera allowed us to capture breathtaking aerial footage, and its powerful GPS module ensured a stable flight experience. Additionally, the drone’s user-friendly features like automatic take-off and headless mode made it easy for us to get started with flying.

One downside of the TENSSENX Foldable GPS Drone is its limited flight time per battery – just 30 minutes. However, the package includes three batteries, which helps to prolong the flying experience. The Wi-Fi connectivity had minor lag issues, but these were generally manageable. Make sure to stay within the 1000-meter maximum control distance to maintain a stable connection.

The TENSSENX Foldable GPS Drone is slightly heavier than some other beginner drones on the market (weighing as much as a can of Coke). This may make it less portable, but its foldable design and included carrying case still make it a convenient travel companion.

We highly recommend the TENSSENX Foldable GPS Drone for beginners looking to capture incredible aerial shots with a user-friendly drone.

Holy Stone GPS Drone with 1080P HD Camera

We highly recommend the Holy Stone GPS Drone for beginners and those wanting an easy-to-use drone with amazing features.

Pros

• GPS auto-return for safe flying
• Intelligent features like custom flight path and follow-me mode
• 26 minutes of flight time with 2 modular batteries

Cons

• Detachable propellers may be easy to lose
• 1080P camera quality may not be enough for professional use
• Limited control range (984ft)

Having tested the Holy Stone GPS Drone ourselves, we can confidently say that it’s a fantastic beginner drone. The GPS auto-return function provides an extra layer of security, as it allows the drone to automatically return to the “HOME” point when signal or power is lost or when you press the auto-return button.

This feature was incredibly useful to us, especially during our initial learning curve.

In addition to the GPS auto-return, this drone has intelligent features like the customizable flight path and follow-me mode. We enjoyed being able to set our own flight path and having the drone automatically follow us without needing constant input. This feature made the flying experience more fun and engaging.

The upgraded configuration, which includes two modular batteries, extends the flight time to 26 minutes – a considerable improvement compared to other beginner drones. However, we found the detachable propellers to be a potential downside, as they can be easy to lose due to their small size.

The 1080P HD camera allows users to record images and voice simultaneously and is perfect for those learning aerial photography. Although the camera quality might not be sufficient for professional use, it’s more than adequate for recreational purposes. Sharing your shots on social media is also a breeze, thanks to the integrated app.

As beginners, we appreciated that the latest altitude control system made it easy to achieve stable flight. The controller and app have considerate icons that help users grasp flying skills sooner. However, it’s worth noting that the control range is limited to 984 ft, which can be restricted for those who wish to explore further distances.

The Holy Stone GPS drone is an excellent choice for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of drones without breaking the bank.

Its user-friendly features, reliable GPS auto-return, and decent camera quality make it an attractive option for both new and experienced pilots.

Holy Stone GPS Drone with 4K Camera for Adults, HS175D

The ideal beginner-friendly drone with a fantastic camera, GPS navigation, and user-friendly features.

Pros

• Outstanding 4K camera with wide-angle and adjustable settings
• GPS Auto Return for a worry-free flying experience
• Extended flight time with two batteries, up to 46 minutes

Cons

• Initial setup can be complex
• Video stabilization may be affected by wind
• Additional features may require a learning curve

We recently had the pleasure of trying out the Holy Stone GPS Drone with a 4K Camera for Adults, and we can confidently say that it’s an excellent choice for beginners. With its impressive 4K camera, capturing stunning aerial footage is a breeze. The wide-angle lens allows for a more comprehensive view, and the adjustable settings enable us to get that perfect shot.

The GPS Auto Return function became one of our favorite features – it ensures the drone returns home when it loses signal or battery power.

This eliminates any worries about flying it too far away or losing it. Additionally, the Holy Stone drone comes with two batteries, providing up to 46 minutes of flight time, and allowing us to enjoy a more extended flying experience.

However, the initial setup can be a bit complex for first-time users, but once we got the hang of it, the drone performed seamlessly. Video stability may be affected by wind, so it’s essential to choose the right conditions to achieve the best results.

Some of the more advanced features, such as flying along a set path or circling a point, may require some practice for absolute beginners – but this simply adds to the fun and excitement of learning to fly this amazing drone.

The Holy Stone GPS Drone with a 4K Camera for Adults is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to purchase their first drone.

Holy Stone HS720G GPS Drone with 4K EIS Camera

The Holy Stone HS720G is a fantastic beginner’s drone with a reliable GPS system and an impressive 4K camera.

Pros

• Easy to use for first-time pilots
• High-quality 4K EIS camera with a 2-axis gimbal
• Durable and stable with a 26-minute battery life

Cons

• Limited range of 999 meters
• FAA compliance requires an additional Remote ID Module
• Some users may find the initial setup complex

As beginner drone enthusiasts ourselves, we’ve had the pleasure of testing the Holy Stone HS720G. This well-crafted drone offers a perfect entry point for those interested in aerial photography. Its stable flight and user-friendly functions allow novice pilots to get started quickly and confidently.

We were thoroughly impressed by the HS720G’s 4K EIS camera that comes with a 2-axis motorized gimbal. This feature ensures high-quality footage without any compromises on image stability. The powerful brushless motors and 26-minute battery life keep the drone stable in flight, providing ample time to capture the perfect shot.

The HS720G comes equipped with numerous features designed for beginner pilots such as Headless Mode, Automatic Take-off, and Altitude Hold.

Additionally, the GPS module and Optical Flow Positioning contribute to a safer and more reliable flying experience.

With features like Follow Me, Tap Fly, and Point of Interest, the HS720G offers intelligent flying capabilities that free up your hands and make capturing memories fun and hassle-free. Keeping the drone secure is easy thanks to Emergency Stop, Smart Return to Home, GPS module, and One Key Return.

Despite the multitude of user-friendly functions and powerful performance capabilities, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The range of the HS720G is limited to 999 meters, and obtaining FAA compliance for the drone requires the purchase of a separate Remote ID Module. Also, some users may find the initial setup process somewhat complex.

The Holy Stone HS720G is an excellent choice for beginners looking to venture into the world of drone piloting and aerial photography.

Its remarkable features, ease of use, and affordable price make it a great investment.

TENSSENX GPS Drone with 1080P HD Camera

The TENSSENX GPS Drone is a good choice for beginners, offering user-friendly features and decent camera quality.

Pros

• Smart GPS auto-return function
• 1080P HD camera with 120° wide-angle
• Includes carrying bag and two modular batteries

Cons

• Limited lighting, making orientation difficult
• No stable hover function
• Additional costs for return shipping

When we first tested the TENSSENX GPS Drone, we were impressed by its Smart GPS Auto Return feature. This function ensures the drone automatically returns home when it loses signal, is out of range, loses power, or when the auto return button is pressed. This took away some stress during our flights, giving us peace of mind knowing we wouldn’t lose the drone easily.

Another aspect we appreciated was the 1080P HD camera with a 120° wide-angle lens, which allowed us to capture clear and stunning aerial images. The 5GHz FPV transmission provided smooth and stable video, making it easy to share our experiences on social media.

The TENSSENX GPS Drone, however, does have its drawbacks. The limited lighting made it difficult to determine the drone’s orientation, especially for beginner operators. In addition, it lacked a stable hover function, causing it to constantly move, which made it challenging to control at times and potentially dangerous.

Lastly, we discovered that in case you want to return the drone, you’ll have to bear the shipping costs, which can be frustrating.

The TENSSENX GPS Drone is a decent beginner drone with some nice features but could benefit from improvements in lighting and stabilization.

Holy Stone HS720E GPS Drone with 4K Camera

The Holy Stone HS720E GPS Drone is an excellent choice for beginners, offering impressive image quality and user-friendly controls.

Pros

• High-quality 4K EIS Anti-Shake Camera with Sony Sensor
• Extended flight time with two intelligent batteries
• User-friendly controls and flight modes

Cons

• Slightly heavier than similar drones making it less portable
• Camera tilt issues reported by some users
• Connectivity dependent on Wi-Fi

The Holy Stone HS720E GPS Drone is our top pick for beginners looking to capture stunning aerial footage with a reliable and easy-to-use drone. Equipped with a 4K EIS Anti-Shake Camera featuring a Sony Sensor, you can expect crystal-clear images and videos without any blurring. We were blown away by the image quality, which outperforms many other beginner drone options on the market.

Outdoor flight with the HS720E is seamless and stable, thanks to the integrated air optical flow and air pressure altitude control system. The GPS location and Auto Return to Home functionality provided us with peace of mind during our test flights, ensuring the drone always made it back safely.

The extended flight time of 46 minutes with the included Fly More Kit allowed us to capture more footage without constantly needing to recharge.

One of the most significant selling points of the Holy Stone HS720E is its user-friendly controls. Flight modes such as Follow Me, Tap Fly, and Point of Interest made it easy for us to focus on capturing amazing shots and videos while the drone effortlessly navigated the skies.

The drone also boasts whisper-quiet power from its brushless motors, which not only makes flights nearly noiseless but also extends motor lifespan and reduces maintenance.

However, we did find that the HS720E is slightly heavier than some similar drones, making it a bit less portable. Moreover, a few users reported issues with the camera’s tilt mechanism. Keep in mind that the drone’s connectivity is Wi-Fi-dependent, which eventually affects the range and signal strength.

The Holy Stone HS720E GPS Drone with a 4K Camera is an exceptional choice for beginners who want a high-quality, easy-to-use drone to capture stunning aerial footage.

Bwine F7 GPS Camera Drone with FAA Certification

The Bwine F7 GPS Camera Drone is an excellent choice for beginners seeking an easy-to-use drone with impressive features and reliable performance.

Pros

• FAA-certified and beginner-friendly
• 4K camera with 3-axis gimbal for stable footage
• Impressive 75-minute flight time with three 2600mAh batteries

Cons

• Occasional connectivity and control issues
• Night photography might need improvement
• Customer service may be slow to respond

The Bwine F7 GPS Camera Drone is a fantastic option for those just starting in the world of aerial photography and videography. As a beginner, we found it easy to get started with this drone, thanks to its FAA certification, intuitive controls, and various beginner-friendly modes such as Auto Return, Follow Me, and Fly Around. The drone’s GPS feature offers added peace of mind, ensuring we never lose our new investment during flights.

We were quite impressed with the drone’s 4K camera, which features a 3-axis gimbal for stable footage and a 5x digital zoom for versatility in capturing different angles and views. The images and videos we produced were sharp and vibrant, although we did notice that night shots could require improvement to match the quality of daytime photography.

One of the standout features of the Bwine F7 is its incredibly generous flight time. The package includes three 2600mAh batteries, providing up to 75 minutes of flight time in total. This allowed us to fully explore and experiment with the drone without constantly worrying about recharging or swapping out batteries.

A few minor drawbacks we encountered were occasional connectivity and control issues, which might cause erratic flight behavior. We also found that customer service can be a bit slow to respond to questions or concerns.

However, these issues do not significantly detract from the overall value and enjoyment of this beginner-friendly drone.

The Bwine F7 GPS Camera Drone offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and affordability, making it a top choice for beginners seeking a high-quality drone with a camera and GPS capabilities.

Ruko U11S Drone

The Ruko U11S is a perfect beginner-friendly drone that offers an enjoyable flying experience with its camera and GPS features.

Pros

• Foldable design and portability
• 4K UHD adjustable camera
• 40 minutes total flight time with 2 batteries

Cons

• Transmitter might feel less intuitive
• Limited to basic features for experienced users
• Indoor flights may require extra caution

During our time using the Ruko U11S drone, we were quite impressed with its foldable design, making it easy to carry around while also being lightweight. This drone is exceptionally beginner-friendly, as it features the necessary GPS and camera capabilities without being overly complex to set up and use.

The 4K UHD adjustable camera is a standout feature, allowing for stunning imagery and video recording at various angles. Additionally, the two included batteries provide a combined flight time of 40 minutes, giving beginners plenty of time to practice and enjoy the experience.

While the transmitter does require some getting used to, it is still easy enough for beginners to operate the drone effectively. More advanced users may find the Ruko U11S lacking in extensive features, as it is geared towards an entry-level audience.

Furthermore, flying the drone indoors may require extra care with the optical flow positioning, especially in cramped spaces.

The Ruko U11S drone is an excellent choice for those looking to purchase their first drone in 2024.

With its user-friendly design, impressive camera, and extended flight time, it provides an enjoyable and accessible experience for beginners to explore the world of drone flying.

Holy Stone HS440 Foldable FPV Drone

The Holy Stone HS440 is an excellent choice for beginners and kids, offering an easy-to-use drone with impressive features.

Pros

• 1080P HD adjustable camera with wide-angle lens
• 20 minutes of flight time with a modular battery
• The foldable design comes with a carrying case

Cons

• May struggle with camera stability in windy conditions
• The remote control range could be longer
• Limited to beginners with some advanced features missing

We found the Holy Stone HS440 Foldable FPV Drone to be the perfect starting point for anyone new to drones. The 1080P HD camera allows us to capture stunning aerial footage, and the 20-minute flight time lets us enjoy our flights without constantly worrying about the battery. Its foldable design and accompanying carrying case make it convenient to transport, ensuring we never miss a chance to fly.

One of the limitations we noticed is that the camera can struggle with stability when flying in windy conditions. While the drone itself is quite stable in the air, the footage may appear shaky or jittery on windy days.

The remote control range is decent but could be improved for those wanting to explore further. However, as a beginner drone, we believe the range is more than adequate to enjoy the features it offers.

Lastly, more advanced drone enthusiasts might find the Holy Stone HS440 limited, as it mostly caters to beginners. Beginners can expect to have a good time learning to fly and capturing footage, but those who seek advanced features may want to look at other options.

We highly recommend the Holy Stone HS440 for beginners and kids, as it offers a fun and user-friendly experience with an impressive camera and decent flight time.

Buying Guide

As beginners entering the realm of drones in 2024, it’s crucial to know what to look for when purchasing the best beginner drone with camera and GPS. Throughout this guide, we’ll cover essential features you should consider before making your final decision.

Camera Quality

One of the primary features to look for in a beginner drone with a camera is the camera quality. You should consider parameters like:

• Resolution: A drone camera should offer at least 1080p HD resolution for satisfying footage. Higher resolutions, such as 2K or 4K, will produce more detailed and visually impressive shots.
• Sensor size: A larger sensor will enable better light sensitivity and ultimately produce higher-quality images.

GPS Stability & Accuracy

A drone with a reliable GPS system will ensure precise navigation, easier piloting, and even automated flight modes such as:

• Follow Me: The drone follows a moving object of your choice.
• Waypoint Navigation: Set a route for the drone to follow automatically.

Make sure the drone has a strong GPS signal and that the GPS system it uses is accurate and widely supported.

Flight Time

The flight time of a drone is vital—longer flight times allow for more flexibility when capturing footage. As beginners, look for drones that have a flight time of at least 10 minutes. Keep in mind that investing in additional batteries is always a good idea to extend your flight sessions.

Ease of Use

As a beginner, it’s essential to find a user-friendly drone. Look for drones with simplified controls and intuitive interfaces. Features such as altitude hold, automatic return-to-home, and obstacle avoidance will help ensure a more secure and stress-free flying experience.

Price

Lastly, consider the price of the drone. Set a budget that’s realistic for a beginner-level drone with the features mentioned above. Remember, there are options at various price points, and you should be able to find something that suits both your needs and your budget.

Taking the time to carefully examine these features will help you find the best beginner drone with a camera and GPS in 2024. Good luck and happy flying!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top beginner drones with cameras and GPS in 2024?

In 2024, some of the top beginner drones with cameras and GPS include the DJI Mini 3, the Holy Stone HS370, and the Potensic D68. These drones offer user-friendly controls, impressive camera quality, and reliable GPS features, making them suitable choices for beginners. Remember, it is essential to consider a drone’s performance, ease of use, and price before making a decision.

Which affordable beginner drones have camera and GPS features?

Affordable beginner drones with camera and GPS features include the Snaptain SP660, the Holy Stone HS110G, and the Eachine E520S. These drones provide good value for money by offering essential features at a lower price point.

Where can I find the best beginner drone with a camera and GPS on Amazon?

To find the best beginner drone with camera and GPS on Amazon, simply search for “beginner drone with camera and GPS” in the search bar. You can then use filters, read customer reviews, and compare prices to find the drone that best fits your needs.

Additionally, keep an eye out for deals, discounts, and Amazon’s Choice or Best Seller badges for popular, highly rated products.

What makes a drone suitable for beginners in 2024?

A drone suitable for beginners in 2024 typically has easy-to-use controls, a stable flight system, and beginner-friendly features such as headless mode, altitude hold, and return-to-home functions. Drones that offer dedicated smartphone apps, comprehensive tutorials, and responsive customer support are also excellent choices for those starting in the hobby.

What are the best entry-level drones for aerial photography and mapping in 2024?

The best entry-level drones for aerial photography and mapping in 2024 include models such as the DJI Mini 3, the Hubsan Zino Pro, and the Parrot Anafi. These drones not only have user-friendly controls but also provide high-quality cameras and GPS functions that make it possible to capture stunning aerial images and create accurate maps.

How do I choose the best value-for-money beginner drone with camera and GPS?

To choose the best value-for-money beginner drone with a camera and GPS, consider factors such as flight time, camera quality, ease of use, and GPS features. Research and compare different models within your budget, read reviews from other users, and look for promotions or deals to get the most functionality for your money.

Remember, investing in a reliable, beginner-friendly drone will help you enjoy the experience and improve your skills at the same time.