Today, the quality of videos shot using drones is far beyond what a lot of people imagined it could be. No one anticipated the unique take on filmmaking that these devices were capable of, and as technology evolved and drones were used to capture videos, it is impossible to imagine it being done in any other way. Before making your drone purchase, we know that you have to conduct research on the different models available in the market. However, to relieve you of the boredom and help you save on time, we have curated a list of the best drones in the market
Parrot PF728000 Anafi Quadcopter
Intro
One of the first drones to give DJI a run for their money is the Anafi quadcopter by Parrot. This drone is well designed and easy to maneuver, allowing users to capture 4K quality videos and stills of 21 megapixels. Its camera additionally, supports Adobe DNG/RAW formats and HDR (High-Density Range) shooting and making post-production editing more efficient. Boasting a notable 3 axis hybrid gimbal and 180-degree tilt users will enjoy capturing stable unprecedented shots with its 1/2.4-inch Sony CMOS sensor. Providing filmmakers with up to 25 minutes of filmed flight this drone delivers great performance that cinematographers can appreciate.
Pros
- It is lightweight and extremely portable.
- Despite its lack of obstacle avoidance sensors, the Parrot Anafi drone flies quite steadily.
- Users can stream videos directly to their phone as they fly the drone.
- It is affordable in comparison to other drones discussed in our list.
- It flies quite stably, which was a pleasant surprise, given that it did not avoid obstacles automatically.
Cons
- The drone is not equipped with obstacle avoidance sensors.
- The battery takes a long time to charge up.
- In comparison to apps used in conjunction with other drones, the Parrot FreeFlight 6 app for Android and iOS is limiting in terms of the gimbal, camera, and tweaks that can be made.
DJI Mavic Air Quadcopter
Intro
It is impossible to create a list of best drones without featuring the award-winning Mavic Air quadcopter from DJI. This drone excels at every task thrown its way to deliver impressive 4K quality videos, which is more than abundant quality for film making.
It boasts an impressive 3 axis mechanical gimbal camera system that does an excellent job of ensuring the drone is steady enough to capture spectacular shots. To control the drone, filmmakers can do so remotely from their phones or via palm gestures on the hand controller. Unlike some of its competitors, the Mavic Air features obstacle avoidance sensors at the front, back, and underside of the drone, which makes flying it such a delight for most users.
Pros
- It shoots incredible 4K video and can also capture stills of up to 23 megapixels
- It is extremely portable thanks to its foldable features, lightweight and small size.
- It flies brilliantly, unlike some of its competitors.
- It is capable of taking panorama images in four unique styles and angles.
Cons
- The drone makes a high-pitched noise while you fly it, but this is a small price to pay for all the wonderful features you get from it.
DJI Inspire 2
Intro
The Inspire 2 by DJI is the ultimate professional grade drone for filmmakers. It is the only drone out of the ones we tested that was able to reach speeds of up to 58mph. Users can use the Inspire 2 to shoot 360-degree panoramic videos as the drone’s landing gear are retractable. The drone is unique as it can be used with up to 5 cameras including Zenmuse X5 and X5R to produce the best cinematic videos that brag top-notch quality of 5.2K as well as stills with a 24-megapixel quality. Its 27-minute flight time is also quite appealing to filmmakers. Additionally, it has GPS hovering capabilities that work alongside other features such as HD 360 deg rotating gimbal and video transmission system.
Pros
- Its carbon fiber and magnesium construction make it very durable.
- It has obstacle avoidance sensors which make flying it quite fun and easy.
- It can be controlled by two people at the same time.
Cons
- It is quite heavy, especially if you are a cinematographer who treks quite a bit.
- It is costly
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Drone
Intro
The Mavic 2 Zoom Drone is the perfect drone for filmmakers looking for a drone that can provide the longest flight time. With a flight time of 31 minutes and a 5-mile transmitter range, this drone is best suited for professional filmmakers. The Mavic 2 Zoom has a 3-axis gimbal that ensures the footage captured by the drone is smooth and stable regardless of the situation it is being used in.
Additionally, it is powered by a 1/2.3-inch 12-megapixel CMOS sensor; the drone can effortlessly and effectively shoot different video qualities. It shoots 1080p HD videos at 120fps, 2.7K at 60fps and 4K at 30 fps all while still being capable of capturing RAW stills at 20 megapixels. To control the drone, users can use its remote control, which controls the drone with great throughput and range.
Pros
- The drone has impressive tracking and omnidirectional obstacle avoidance capabilities.
- Its battery life is one of the best in the market.
Cons
- It is rather heavy in comparison to other drones.
- Filmmakers can only zoon 2x when shooting 4K videos.
- Videos shot in Hyperlapse are shaky as they are not stabilized and can only be hot up to 1080p HD quality.
The Bottom Line
Drones are a brilliant tool for taking video and filming as they are capable of reaching places that people could previously not reach by themselves. The drones discussed in our list above do a great job of providing a perspective that cannot be found elsewhere! They are the best filmmaking drones, and you are unlikely to go wrong on your next project should you choose to work with them. Nevertheless, before deciding on which of the drones you should purchase, review your filming needs, and make a decision based on that.
