Getting your child their first drone is an exciting adventure! Imagine their eyes lighting up as a mini aircraft takes to the sky, controlled by their very own hands. But let’s be real, you don’t want to break the bank on something that might crash a few times (it’s inevitable!). That’s why finding the best cheap drone for kids is often the top priority for parents. You want something fun, durable, easy to fly, and most importantly, safe, without costing a fortune.
We totally get it. The market is flooded with options, and sifting through them can feel overwhelming. To make your life easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the top 10 affordable drones that are perfect for young pilots. These aren’t just toys; they’re gateways to developing hand-eye coordination, understanding basic physics, and having a blast! We’ve focused on models that offer great value, come packed with kid-friendly features, and are tough enough to withstand those inevitable bumps and tumbles.
So, if you’re ready to find that perfect beginner drone for your little one, let’s take flight!
How We Chose the Best Cheap Drones for Kids
Our selection criteria focused on several key aspects that matter most for children’s drones:
- Ease of Use: Simple controls, one-key take-off/landing, and features like headless mode are crucial for beginners.
- Durability: Kids can be rough! We looked for robust designs and propeller guards.
- Safety Features: Enclosed propellers and emergency stops are a big plus.
- Flight Time: Longer flight times mean more fun and less charging.
- Fun Factor: Lights, flips, and optional cameras add to the excitement.
- Price: All selected drones offer excellent value for money.
Our Top 10 Best Cheap Drones for Kids
1. ALTITACO Drones for Kids With Cool Light
The ALTITACO drone is a fantastic choice for first-time flyers, designed with simplicity and safety at its core. What makes it stand out is its incredibly user-friendly operation combined with a fun, cool lighting display that kids absolutely adore. It’s built for those initial learning curves, ensuring your child can get airborne with minimal frustration.
- Key Features:
- One-click take-off/landing, or gentle hand-throw for launch.
- Headless mode for easy direction control.
- Cool, controllable lighting effects and cute modeling design.
- Exciting 3D flip, height maintenance, surround, and self-rotation functions.
- Three speed modes for different skill levels.
- Sturdy, crash-resistant ABS material with full-protection propeller design.
- Kid-friendly, fully meshed propeller guards for indoor safety.
- Comes with two rechargeable batteries (9 minutes each, 18 mins total flight time).
- Pros:
- Extremely easy for beginners to learn and master.
- Excellent safety features with full propeller protection.
- Engaging lighting adds to the fun, especially in low light.
- Durable build quality withstands impacts.
- Perfect for indoor use, safe around kids and pets.
- Cons:
- Flight time per battery is on the shorter side.
- No camera functionality.
- User Impressions: Parents frequently praise how easy their kids picked up flying this drone, highlighting the durability and the captivating lights as major wins. It’s often called the perfect “first drone.”
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. FLYVISTA Cool Mini Drone with Camera for Kids Adults
Sporting a unique shark-shaped design, the FLYVISTA Mini Drone isn’t just cool to look at; it packs a punch with its 1080P HD camera and impressive battery life. This drone offers an excellent balance between beginner-friendly controls and advanced features like FPV, making it a stellar option for kids ready to explore aerial photography.
- Key Features:
- Unique 2024 shark-shaped design.
- 1080P HD 90° manually adjustable camera lens with FPV function (real-time viewing via phone/iPad).
- Three 1,800mAh rechargeable batteries for approximately 30 minutes of total flight time.
- Easy one-click take-off/landing.
- Optical flow positioning for stable altitude hold.
- Headless mode, emergency stop, and propeller guards for beginner safety.
- Multiple functions: one-click 360° flips, 3-gear speeds, gravity sensing, gesture control (photo/video), path flight.
- App control available (free).
- Pros:
- High-definition camera for clear photos and videos.
- Exceptional total flight time for extended fun.
- Optical flow positioning ensures very stable hovering.
- Advanced features like gesture control add to the excitement.
- Eye-catching design makes it a great gift.
- Cons:
- Camera lens is manually adjustable, not remote.
- Best for indoor or calm outdoor conditions as wind can affect it.
- User Impressions: Kids are thrilled with the camera and the cool design, while adults appreciate the stable flight and the longer battery life that allows for more practice and recording.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. Flymevac Drone with Camera, Dual 720HD
The Flymevac Drone takes aerial fun to the next level with its innovative dual 720P HD cameras and intelligent gesture control. This feature-rich mini drone is perfect for kids who love to capture moments from unique perspectives, offering both head-on and true vertical shooting. Plus, its multi-mode lighting adds an extra layer of visual excitement.
- Key Features:
- Intelligent Gesture Control: “V” gesture for photo, “palm” for video.
- Cool Multi-Mode Lighting effects (three switchable modes).
- Easy to use via both remote controller and app.
- Wide range of functions: waypoint flight, gravity control, emergency stop, headless mode, 360° rolls, hovering, one-touch take-off/landing, three speed settings.
- Dual 720P high-definition cameras: head camera (90° adjustable), bottom camera (true vertical shooting).
- Wi-Fi FPV for instant real-time video and photo transfer to smartphone (no SD card needed).
- Sturdy design with four protective brackets and foldable for portability.
- Comes with two batteries (6 minutes each, 12 minutes total flight time).
- Pros:
- Unique dual-camera setup for diverse shooting angles.
- Intuitive gesture control makes capturing photos/videos fun and easy.
- Very portable thanks to its foldable design.
- Feature-rich for endless entertainment.
- Engaging lighting effects.
- Cons:
- Total flight time is shorter than some competitors.
- 720P resolution, while good, isn’t 1080P.
- User Impressions: Kids absolutely love showing off the gesture control feature and experimenting with different camera views. Parents find it a great educational toy for budding photographers.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. Naseto 1080P HD Foldable Drone with Camera for Adults & Kids
The Naseto drone is a fantastic all-rounder, combining a high-definition 1080P camera with a super portable, foldable design. It’s perfect for both aspiring young pilots and adventurous adults, offering a blend of easy controls and advanced features that make every flight exciting. Plus, its lightweight design means no FAA registration is required!
- Key Features:
- 1080P HD WiFi camera with 90° adjustable lens and real-time FPV transmission.
- Perfect for Beginners: One-key take-off/landing, headless mode, altitude hold, three speed levels.
- Propeller obstacle avoidance for safer flights.
- Fun Flight Features: Remote or smartphone control, 360° flips, waypoint flight, gravity control, Follow Me mode, gesture-controlled selfies (some features require app).
- Long Flight Time: Two rechargeable batteries providing up to 30 minutes of total flight time (15 minutes per battery).
- Portable Design: Foldable, lightweight (under 249g), and includes a carrying case.
- Pros:
- Excellent 1080P camera quality for a cheap drone.
- Impressive 30-minute total flight time.
- Extremely portable and easy to travel with.
- No FAA registration required due to its light weight.
- Packed with advanced features like Follow Me and gesture control.
- Cons:
- Some advanced features are only accessible via the app.
- 90° camera adjustment is manual.
- User Impressions: Users rave about the convenience of its foldable design and the clarity of the camera. Many find it an ideal drone for learning and casual aerial photography.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. HOFMOC Mini Drone for Kids 8-15
The HOFMOC Mini Drone is engineered for ultimate beginner-friendliness and fun, particularly excelling with its dazzling light modes. It’s designed to be virtually indestructible for kids, thanks to its full propeller guards and robust build. With quick USB-C charging, the fun never has to wait long!
- Key Features:
- Beginner Friendly: One Key Takeoff, throw-to-go, full propeller guards, Headless Mode.
- Five dazzling light modes for spectacular night flights and multi-drone racing.
- Upgraded Modular Dual Battery: Two 1000mAh batteries provide up to 22 minutes total flight time.
- Fast USB Type-C charging port (1 hour for full charge).
- Full Protection: Fully enclosed propeller guard and one-piece ABS material for enhanced durability.
- Multiple exciting flight modes: Circle Fly, Automatic Rotation, 3D Flips, three speed levels.
- Pros:
- Exceptionally easy for absolute beginners and young children.
- Outstanding safety with fully enclosed propeller guards.
- Fast charging capability reduces downtime.
- Vibrant and customizable LED lights add a huge “wow” factor.
- Highly durable and impact-resistant.
- Cons:
- Does not include a camera.
- Requires individual pairing if flying multiple drones.
- User Impressions: Parents highly recommend it for its safety features and quick charging. Kids are absolutely captivated by the glowing lights, making it a favorite for indoor and evening flights.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
6. UranHub Drones for Kids, Mini Drone with 5 Lighting
Prepare to paint the night sky with the UranHub Mini Drone, featuring an impressive 24 RGB LEDs that create five stunning lighting effects. This drone is not just about the show; it’s incredibly user-friendly and built tough, making it an ideal choice for young pilots to explore the joys of flying with vibrant flair.
- Key Features:
- More Fun with 5 Colorful RGB Lighting Effects: 24 RGB LEDs with switchable colors and speeds.
- Two upgraded modular batteries provide 22 minutes of total flight time.
- Safety Protection Design: Four durable propeller guards made from high-quality ABS material.
- User-Friendly: One-button take-off/landing, toss to launch, 3-speed modes.
- Altitude Hold function and Headless Mode for easy, stable flying.
- Combines with 3D flip and Circle flight functions.
- Pros:
- Spectacular lighting effects that truly stand out.
- Good total flight time for extended play.
- Excellent durability and safety features with robust propeller guards.
- Very easy for beginners to control and fly stably.
- Comes with detailed teaching videos and customer support.
- Cons:
- Lacks a camera feature.
- Specific charging cable must be used.
- User Impressions: Children are mesmerized by the vibrant light shows, making it a hit for parties and evening play. Parents appreciate its robust build and ease of use for young flyers.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
7. FLYVISTA Mini Drone with Camera for Adults Kids, 1080P
This FLYVISTA Mini Drone is a phenomenal option if you’re looking for a best cheap drone for kids that offers both high-quality visuals and extended flight time. With its 1080P camera and a generous 30 minutes of air time, it bridges the gap between a toy drone and a serious hobbyist’s tool, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.
- Key Features:
- 1080P HD 90° manually adjustable camera lens with FPV function (real-time viewing via phone/iPad).
- Three 1,800mAh rechargeable batteries for approximately 30 minutes of total flight time.
- Easy to Use: One-click take-off/landing, optical flow positioning for stable altitude.
- Headless mode, emergency stop, and propeller guard for beginner safety.
- Multiple Functions: One-click 360° flips, 3-gear speeds adjustable, gravity sensing, gesture control (photo/video), path flight.
- App control available (free) with 24-hour technical support.
- Pros:
- Excellent 1080P camera for crisp photos and videos.
- Outstanding 30-minute total flight duration.
- Stable flight thanks to optical flow positioning.
- Feature-rich with options like gesture control and path flight.
- User-friendly for both kids and beginner adults.
- Cons:
- Camera angle needs to be adjusted manually before flight.
- Performance can be affected by strong outdoor winds.
- User Impressions: Many users are impressed by the clear camera footage and the drone’s ability to stay airborne for so long. It’s often recommended as a great entry-level camera drone.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
8. Drone with Camera, 1080P HD FPV Camera, One Key Take
This foldable drone is an exceptional choice for those seeking a best cheap drone for kids with a quality camera and robust flight stability. Its 1080P HD FPV camera, combined with optical flow positioning, ensures clearer footage, while its beginner-friendly controls make it a joy for first-time flyers. It’s lightweight, portable, and comes with a carrying case for adventures on the go.
- Key Features:
- 1080P HD FPV Camera with a 90° adjustable lens for wide, clear views.
- Optical flow positioning for steady hovering and smoother footage.
- Beginner-Friendly: One-key take-off/landing, headless mode, 3 speed levels.
- Fun Smart Modes: Gesture selfies, voice commands, trajectory flight, circle fly, 360° flips, gravity sensing via “Bokigibi” app.
- Two batteries provide up to 24 minutes of total flight time.
- Lightweight (135g) and Foldable Design; no FAA registration required.
- Includes a carrying case and full accessories.
- Pros:
- Stable 1080P camera for good quality aerial photos and videos.
- Decent total flight time for practice and fun.
- Extremely portable and easy to carry.
- Many smart features via the app enhance the flying experience.
- Very lightweight, avoiding FAA registration.
- Cons:
- Some advanced features are app-dependent.
- Camera adjustability is manual.
- User Impressions: Users love how easy it is to fly and how steady the camera footage is, especially for a drone in this price range. Its portability is a major plus for family outings.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
9. Mini Drone for Kids,Beginners,Adults,RC Small Nano Drones
For something truly unique and endlessly entertaining, this 2-in-1 Mini Drone and Racing Car is an absolute game-changer. It offers the thrill of both aerial flight and ground racing, making it one of the most versatile and fun options on our list for a best cheap drone for kids. Built with crash-proof durability, it’s designed to withstand all the excitement your kids can throw at it.
- Key Features:
- Revolutionary 2-in-1 Drone & Car hybrid for air and ground fun.
- Durable, Safety, and Easy: Racing-grade PVC for durability, full nylon ABS propeller guards, one-key emergency stop, auto-hover altitude hold.
- Fun for Kids and Adults: Low/medium/high speed modes, incredible 3D flips, beginner-friendly headless mode.
- Racing Car Design with Dynamic LED Lights for an eye-catching spectacle.
- Includes two batteries for 14 minutes of total continuous flight time.
- 2.4Ghz remote control supports multiple players for exciting family competitions.
- Pros:
- Unparalleled dual-mode functionality (fly and drive).
- Extremely durable and crash-proof, ideal for energetic kids.
- Excellent safety features, including full propeller guards.
- Dynamic LED lights add a cool, futuristic vibe.
- Great for fostering family bonding through multi-player racing.
- Cons:
- Shorter total flight time compared to some pure flying drones.
- No camera functionality.
- User Impressions: Kids are utterly fascinated by its ability to transform and race, deeming it one of the coolest toys they’ve ever had. Parents appreciate its resilience and the shared family fun.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
10. Q9s Drones for Kids,RC Drone with Altitude Hold and
The Q9s Drone is all about lighting up the fun! With vibrant neon green and blue LEDs illuminating its entire frame, it delivers a powerful visual experience that young pilots will adore. Beyond the dazzling lights, this drone is incredibly user-friendly and built for durability, making it an excellent choice for kids and beginners to easily master the basics of flight.
- Key Features:
- Light Up The Sky: Bright neon GREEN & BLUE LEDs emit vibrant light with three different display modes.
- Secure & Long-Life: Structured style and four sturdy propeller guards, high-quality ABS material for durability.
- User Friendly: One-button take-off/landing, three speeds (beginner to skilled), headless mode, altitude hold.
- Double Flight Time: Comes with two 500mAh UL-certified batteries (good for 20-30 minutes total flight).
- Multiple Funny Tricks: Featuring 360-degree Flips and Auto-Rotation Functions.
- Pros:
- Spectacular and vivid LED lighting effects.
- Excellent safety features with robust propeller guards.
- Extremely beginner-friendly with easy controls like altitude hold and headless mode.
- Durable construction withstands numerous crashes.
- Fun tricks like flips and auto-rotation add excitement.
- Cons:
- No camera included.
- “Double flight time” is a bit vague on exact minutes, but still good.
- User Impressions: This drone is a big hit for its dazzling light show and straightforward controls. Many users highlight it as a perfect first RC drone for younger children due to its robust design and ease of operation.
- Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your Questions About Kids’ Drones Answered
Choosing the best cheap drone for kids can bring up a few questions. Here are some common ones to help you make the best decision:
Q1: What makes a drone “kid-friendly” compared to an adult drone?
A1: Kid-friendly drones prioritize safety, durability, and ease of use. They often feature full propeller guards, simple one-button controls, headless mode (which simplifies direction), altitude hold for stable hovering, and robust, impact-resistant materials. They’re typically smaller, lighter, and don’t require complex maneuvers.
Q2: How important is battery life for a child’s drone?
A2: Battery life is pretty crucial for kids! Shorter flight times can lead to frustration with constant charging. While “cheap” drones won’t offer hours of flight, aim for models that come with multiple batteries or offer at least 10-15 minutes per charge. This allows for more uninterrupted fun and practice sessions.
Q3: Are these “cheap” drones durable enough to withstand crashes from a child?
A3: Absolutely! The drones we’ve highlighted are specifically chosen for their durability. Many feature sturdy ABS plastic, full-frame protection, or robust propeller guards designed to absorb impacts. While no drone is truly indestructible, these models are built to take a beating and keep flying, which is essential for enthusiastic young pilots.
Q4: What is “headless mode” and why is it good for beginners?
A4: Headless mode is a fantastic feature for beginners! Normally, drones fly relative to their “front.” If the drone spins, its “front” changes, which can be confusing. With headless mode activated, the drone’s direction is always relative to the pilot controlling it, regardless of which way the drone is actually facing. This makes steering much more intuitive and reduces the learning curve significantly.
Q5: Do I need to register a cheap drone for my child with the FAA?
A5: In most cases, no. Drones weighing under 0.55 pounds (250 grams) generally do not require FAA registration when flown for recreational purposes in the United States. Many of the mini drones for kids fall into this lightweight category, making them hassle-free for recreational flying. Always check local regulations, as rules can vary.
Q6: Can these drones be flown indoors, or are they only for outdoor use?
A6: Many of the mini and cheap drones for kids are perfectly suited for indoor use! Their compact size, lightweight design, and often full propeller guards make them safe to fly inside without damaging furniture or walls (or little fingers!). For outdoor flying, it’s best to choose a calm day as light drones can be easily affected by wind.
Q7: What age is appropriate for a child’s first drone?
A7: Generally, most kids’ drones are recommended for ages 8 and up. Younger children might struggle with the controls, even with beginner-friendly features. However, some very simple, hand-controlled mini drones can be suitable for children as young as 6 with adult supervision. Always consider your child’s maturity, dexterity, and interest level.
Q8: Should I get a drone with a camera for my child?
A8: It depends on your child’s interest! Drones with cameras add an exciting element, allowing kids to capture aerial photos and videos, fostering creativity and a different perspective. However, they can sometimes be slightly more complex or fragile than camera-less models. If your child is very young or prone to frequent crashes, starting with a simple, camera-free drone might be better, then upgrading later if they show sustained interest.
We hope this guide helps you find the best cheap drone for kids that will provide hours of safe, flying fun! Happy piloting!
