Hey there, fellow drone enthusiasts! If you’re still rocking your trusty 3DR Solo, you know it was a game-changer back in the day, especially for aerial photography and videography. Designed to be a smart drone with a payload bay, it offered impressive flexibility. But finding the best camera for 3DR Solo drone can be a bit tricky now, especially with how quickly drone tech evolves.
While the Solo was primarily built to carry a GoPro, the landscape of aerial imaging has broadened considerably. In this comprehensive guide, we’re not just looking at direct camera mounts for your Solo, but also exploring some fantastic modern drone alternatives that offer similar, or even superior, aerial photography capabilities if you’re considering an upgrade or looking for a different flying experience. We’ll dive into what makes each product stand out, from direct Solo enhancements to cutting-edge standalone drones with incredible cameras. Let’s get your aerial shots looking epic!
Product Reviews: Elevating Your Aerial Vision
Kodak PIXPRO Aerial Pack VR Camera and 3DR Solo Mount
If you’re looking to give your 3DR Solo a unique imaging upgrade, the Kodak PIXPRO Aerial Pack is a fantastic choice. This isn’t just any camera; it’s a dedicated 360-degree VR camera designed specifically with a mount for your 3DR Solo. Imagine capturing immersive spherical videos from the sky that let viewers look in any direction! It’s perfect for creating incredibly engaging content for platforms like YouTube and Facebook, giving your audience a truly unique perspective from above.
- Drone mount built for the 3DR SOLO drone: Direct compatibility means easy integration.
- YouTube & Facebook Compatible For 360 Degree Videos: Share immersive content effortlessly.
- 4K Equivalent VR Video: High-resolution spherical footage.
- 235 Degree FOV / Ultra Wide Lens: Captures an expansive view for full 360-degree coverage.
- PIXPRO 360 Stitch Software Included (For Mac and PC): All you need to create your VR masterpieces.
Pros:
– Designed specifically for 3DR Solo, ensuring a perfect fit.
– Offers unique 360-degree VR video capabilities.
– Includes stitching software for a complete solution.
– Great for unique, immersive aerial content.
Cons:
– VR footage might not be for everyone or every project.
– Requires post-processing with included software.
User Impressions: Users love how easy it is to mount and the creative possibilities of 360 VR footage. It truly transforms the Solo into a unique aerial storytelling tool, especially for those wanting to break away from traditional drone video. The specialized mount is a big plus for Solo owners.
See it on Amazon here
Master Airscrew Upgrade Propellers for 3DR Solo
While not a camera itself, these Master Airscrew Upgrade Propellers are an essential enhancement for anyone serious about getting the best camera for 3DR Solo drone experience. Improved propellers mean more stable flight, longer flight times, and quieter operation. Why does this matter for your camera? More stability equals smoother footage, longer flight means more recording time, and quieter operation makes for less intrusive filming. These are crucial for maximizing your Solo’s aerial photography potential.
- Improved performance, longer flight time and quiet operation: Directly benefits your camera’s ability to capture smooth, extended footage.
- Available in Black, Orange, White, Green and Red: Customize your Solo’s look.
- The set consists of 4 propellers with built-in nuts – 2xCW and 2xCCW: Full replacement set for quick installation.
Pros:
– Enhances overall flight stability for better camera shots.
– Extends flight duration, giving you more time to capture footage.
– Reduces drone noise, making it less disruptive.
– Easy to install with built-in nuts.
Cons:
– Not a camera, but an accessory that indirectly benefits camera performance.
– Performance gains may vary slightly depending on environmental conditions.
User Impressions: Many 3DR Solo owners swear by these propellers, noting a noticeable difference in flight characteristics, especially in terms of stability and reduced noise. They consider it a must-have upgrade for anyone looking to get the most out of their drone, particularly for camera work.
See it on Amazon here
36%CODE Bingchat Upgraded Professional Drones with Camera
Okay, so this isn’t a camera for your 3DR Solo, but an entire professional drone that offers a host of advanced features that Solo users might appreciate in a modern package. If you’re looking to step up from your Solo to something truly next-gen for aerial photography, the Bingchat AE Pro+ is an absolute powerhouse. It boasts a stunning 4K HD camera with a 3-axis gimbal and EIS for super stable, high-quality video, plus innovative features like payload release and laser obstacle avoidance. This drone isn’t just about flying; it’s about an entire aerial experience.
- 2025 New Upgraded Tablet: Touch Screen Controller with Payload Release: An Android-based controller that doubles as a tablet, offering immense functionality.
- Payload Release & Laser Obstacle Avoidance: Unique features for both fun and enhanced safety.
- Real 4K HD Camera with 3 Axis Gimbal & EIS Anti Shake: Delivers incredibly stable and high-resolution visuals.
- 84 Mins Flight Time with Two 11.1V 8000Mah Batteries: Exceptional flight duration for extended shooting sessions.
- 5 Miles Long Range & 2624 FT Height: Capture cinematic shots from impressive distances and altitudes.
- FAA CERTIFICATED COMPLETED: Ensures compliance and worry-free flying.
Pros:
– Outstanding flight time, camera quality, and range.
– Advanced features like obstacle avoidance and payload release.
– Versatile touch-screen controller with Android functionality.
– FAA certified, offering peace of mind.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– Significant investment.
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the comprehensive feature set, the tablet-like controller, and especially the long flight time. The 4K camera with stabilization produces stunning results, making it a strong contender for those ready for a serious upgrade from their Solo.
See it on Amazon here
TTROARDS Drone with 4k Camera for Adults, Mini Drone with LCD Screen
If you’re thinking about a more portable and beginner-friendly option that still delivers excellent aerial photography, the TTROARDS Mini Drone is worth a look. While it’s a complete drone, its compact size and advanced 4K camera make it a compelling choice for those seeking high-quality imaging on the go. Its 90° electrically adjustable camera and optical flow positioning ensure crisp, stable shots, even indoors. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate both portability and performance in a modern drone.
- 4K HD Camera+90 °Electrically Adjustable: Captures delicate, realistic images with flexible shooting angles.
- 2.8-inch LCD Screen+32GB SD Card: Real-time flight data and camera views without a phone, plus ample storage.
- Optical Flow Positioning: Achieves centimeter-level indoor precise hovering, ideal for beginners.
- Brushless Motor: Silent, efficient, and offers strong power with good wind resistance.
- Propeller Protective Cover: Enhances safety, especially for novice operators.
Pros:
– Excellent portability and beginner-friendly features.
– Integrated LCD screen is a convenient touch.
– Stable indoor flight with optical flow positioning.
– Durable brushless motors and propeller protection.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– Flight time and range might be less than larger professional drones.
User Impressions: Reviewers love its ease of use for beginners, the clear 4K camera, and the convenience of the built-in LCD screen. Its stable flight characteristics, even indoors, make it a hit for learning and casual aerial photography.
See it on Amazon here
LANSAND Brushless Motor Drone with Camera for Adults 4K
For Solo users considering a modern, highly portable, and user-friendly drone that punches above its weight in camera quality, the LANSAND 4K Drone is an excellent option. Weighing under 249g means no FAA registration required, making it incredibly accessible. Its 4K UHD camera with a 120° FOV adjustable lens ensures stunning visuals, while brushless motors provide stable flight and increased durability. It’s a fantastic entry into modern aerial photography without the complexity of larger rigs.
- Weight under 249g—no FAA registration required: Hassle-free flying.
- Better Shooting with 4K UHD Camera 120°FOV 90°Adjustable Lens: Clear 4K pictures and 2K video with a wide field of view.
- 2.4GHz Remote and 5GHz FPV Transmission: Stable and clear real-time image transmission up to 720 ft.
- Stable Flight with Brushless Motors: Great wind resistance and longer motor life.
- Easy for Beginners: Optical Positioning, headless mode, and multiple speed modes.
Pros:
– No FAA registration needed, enhancing convenience.
– High-quality 4K camera with adjustable lens.
– Stable flight and good range for its class.
– Packed with features making it easy for beginners.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– Flight range is moderate compared to higher-end professional drones.
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight its ease of use for beginners and the impressive 4K camera quality for a drone under 250g. The stable flight and extended battery life (with two batteries) also receive high praise, making it a popular choice for new pilots and casual photographers.
See it on Amazon here
Bwine F7GB2 Pro Drones with Camera for Adults 4K UHD
If you’re upgrading from your 3DR Solo and want a drone that truly excels in professional-grade aerial photography and videography, the Bwine F7GB2 Pro is a serious contender. It features a spectacular 4K camera with a 3-axis gimbal for unparalleled stability, and an incredible 75 minutes of flight time with its three intelligent batteries. Its robust build, 6-level wind resistance, and impressive range make it suitable for challenging environments and ambitious projects. Plus, it’s FAA certified for Remote ID.
- FAA CERTIFIED COMPLETED: Complies with FAA Remote ID regulations, ensuring legal and worry-free flight.
- 4K CAMERA WITH 3-AXIS GIMBAL: One-click detachable 4K camera with a 120° FOV lens for ultra-stable, high-quality footage.
- 75 MINS FLIGHT TIME: Three intelligent batteries provide an exceptional total flight duration.
- 2000M ALTITUDE, L6 WIND RESISTANCE: Capable of stable flight in high altitudes and windy conditions.
- GPS, NEVER LOSE YOUR DRONE: Smart GPS features like auto-return and follow-me for safety and convenience.
Pros:
– Outstanding flight time and camera stabilization.
– Impressive wind resistance and flight altitude.
– FAA Remote ID certified for compliance.
– Excellent for professional-level aerial photography.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– Higher price point due to advanced features.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the F7GB2 Pro’s long flight time, robust build, and the superb stability of its 4K gimbal camera. Many consider it a strong alternative to more expensive brands, offering excellent value for serious drone pilots and aerial cinematographers.
See it on Amazon here
Drone with 1080P Camera for Beginners, Remote Control
For those new to drones or looking for an affordable yet capable option for casual aerial photography, this 1080P Camera Drone is a fantastic starter. It’s designed with beginners in mind, offering features like altitude hold, one-key take-off/landing, and headless mode to make flying a breeze. While not a best camera for 3dr solo drone attachment, it’s a great way to learn the ropes of drone videography before investing in more advanced equipment.
- Drone with 1080P HD Camera for Beginners: Captures stunning 1080p HD aerial photos and videos, perfect for learning.
- Beginner-Friendly: Altitude hold, one-key start, headless mode, and 3 speed modes.
- Cool Flight Feature: Perform circle fly, trajectory fly, and 3D flips with ease.
- Nice Little Starter Drone: Lightweight, portable, and comes with 2 batteries for extended fun.
Pros:
– Extremely easy to fly for beginners.
– Good 1080P camera quality for its price point.
– Portable and comes with spare batteries.
– Fun features like 3D flips and gesture selfies.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– 1080p resolution might not be sufficient for professional use.
User Impressions: This drone is highly praised as an “amazing starter drone” for its user-friendliness and surprisingly good 1080p camera. Users appreciate the smooth flight and the protective case it comes with, making it an ideal gift for aspiring drone pilots.
See it on Amazon here
Drone with Camera for Adults, HD FPV Drones with Upgrade Hover System
This HD FPV Drone offers a perfect blend of user-friendliness and advanced features, making it an appealing option for adults looking for a versatile aerial photography tool. Weighing under 250g, it avoids FAA registration, providing convenience similar to what Solo users appreciate. With an HD camera, 90-degree adjustable angle, and an upgraded hover system with optical flow positioning, it delivers stable and high-quality visuals for capturing memorable moments.
- User-friendly and Versatile: Ideal for beginners and children with one-key takeoff/landing, altitude hold, and smart app control.
- Real-time Image Transmission and HD Photography: Captures stunning HD photos and videos with adjustable camera angle.
- Take it Anywhere: Compact, lightweight (under 250g, no FAA registration), and foldable for ultimate portability.
- Safe and Long Battery Life: Two rechargeable batteries provide approximately 26 minutes of flight time, with low battery warnings.
Pros:
– No FAA registration required for ease of use.
– Highly portable and travel-friendly design.
– Stable flight and hover system for clear photos/videos.
– Offers smart app control with fun features.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– HD resolution is good but not 4K.
User Impressions: Customers love this drone’s portability and ease of use, making it a great travel companion. The stable flight and adjustable camera angle for HD photos and videos are frequently highlighted, along with the responsive customer service.
See it on Amazon here
Drone with 1080P Camera – Foldable Remote Control
Another excellent entry-level option, this foldable 1080P Camera Drone is a great choice for those seeking simplicity, affordability, and decent aerial imaging. Its 1080P HD camera with an 80-degree adjustable lens is perfect for capturing everyday moments or even checking hard-to-reach areas like your roof. For 3DR Solo owners interested in a straightforward, modern drone that’s easy to fly and carry, this offers a compelling package, complete with extended flight time and numerous safety features.
- Drone with Camera: 1080P HD 80° adjustable lens for stunning aerial shots and selfies.
- Long Flying Time and Safer: Two enhanced batteries provide 25 minutes of flight time, plus safety features like emergency stop and propeller guards.
- Easier to Use: One Key Start, upgraded hover system, headless mode, and no FAA registration needed (lightweight).
- More Fun to Fly: Multiple control modes (remote, APP, voice), 360° flips, waypoint fly, and 3 speed gears.
Pros:
– Very easy for beginners to control.
– Foldable and portable design.
– Decent 1080P camera quality for the price.
– Numerous safety features and extended flight time.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– 1080p might not satisfy advanced users.
User Impressions: Reviewers frequently praise this drone for being a “cool gift for kids” and an ideal beginner drone due to its ease of control and safety features. The 1080P camera is a pleasant surprise for its quality, and the foldable design adds to its appeal.
See it on Amazon here
Bwine F7 Pro Drones with Camera for Adults 4K UHD
The Bwine F7 Pro stands out as another top-tier choice for 3DR Solo users looking to upgrade to a drone with truly professional aerial photography capabilities. Featuring a native 4K UHD camera paired with an advanced 3-axis gimbal, it delivers incredibly sharp, stable, and color-accurate imagery. With level 6 wind resistance and a remarkable 50 minutes of flight time (with two batteries), this drone is built for demanding conditions and extended shooting sessions, ensuring you capture every detail.
- FAA Compliance: Built-in remote ID module ensures hassle-free compliance.
- Native 4K UHD Camera: True 4K (3840×2160) resolution with a 90°/120° FOV adjustable wide-angle lens for superior detail.
- Advanced 3-Axis Gimbal: Detects and counteracts vibrations for incredibly stable imaging.
- Level 6 Wind Resistance: Quieter and steadier flight even in challenging wind conditions.
- 50 Mins Flight Time: Two intelligent batteries provide ample flight duration.
- 9800ft Long Range Transmission: Crisp images and smooth video over extended distances.
Pros:
– Exceptional 4K camera quality with superior gimbal stabilization.
– High wind resistance for stable flight in various conditions.
– Long flight time and impressive transmission range.
– FAA compliant with built-in Remote ID.
Cons:
– This is an entire drone, not an add-on camera for the Solo.
– Requires a significant investment.
User Impressions: Users are highly satisfied with the Bwine F7 Pro’s true 4K camera and the rock-solid stability provided by its 3-axis gimbal. The long flight range and duration are also major selling points, making it a favorite for serious aerial photographers seeking professional results.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your Burning Drone Camera Questions Answered
Q1: Can I still upgrade the camera on my 3DR Solo drone?
A1: Absolutely! The 3DR Solo was famously designed with a payload bay specifically for cameras like the GoPro. While GoPro models have evolved, you can still find mounts and compatible cameras, such as the Kodak PIXPRO VR Camera reviewed above, that are purpose-built for the Solo.
Q2: What kind of camera did the 3DR Solo originally support best?
A2: The 3DR Solo was primarily designed to integrate seamlessly with GoPro HERO cameras. It featured a dedicated gimbal that housed and controlled the GoPro, offering excellent stabilization for aerial video.
Q3: Are these modern drones truly “better” than using a 3DR Solo with an upgraded camera?
A3: For raw camera performance, flight stability, battery life, and advanced features like obstacle avoidance and GPS precision, many modern drones do surpass the capabilities of an upgraded 3DR Solo. While the Solo was a pioneer, newer drones have benefited from years of technological advancements, offering integrated systems that often outperform a modular setup.
Q4: Do I need FAA registration for these drones?
A4: It depends on the drone’s weight and your intended use. Drones weighing 0.55 pounds (250 grams) or more generally require FAA registration if flown outdoors. Always check the specific drone’s weight and current FAA regulations for recreational or commercial use. Several drones reviewed here (like the LANSAND or TTROARDS mini drones) fall under the 250g threshold, making them convenient for casual use. Many professional drones (like the Bwine models) also come with FAA Remote ID certification, which is becoming increasingly important.
Q5: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for drone reviews?
A5: LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are terms and phrases semantically related to your main topic. For “best camera for 3dr solo drone,” LSI keywords would include terms like “aerial photography,” “drone videography,” “gimbal stabilization,” “flight time,” “payload capacity,” “FAA regulations,” and “imaging sensor.” Using them naturally helps search engines understand the full context and topical relevance of your article, boosting its SEO strength beyond just repeating the main keyword.
Q6: What’s the biggest benefit of a 3-axis gimbal for aerial photography?
A6: A 3-axis gimbal is a game-changer for aerial photography because it mechanically stabilizes the camera on three axes (pitch, roll, and yaw). This means that even if your drone tilts or moves in the wind, the camera remains perfectly level and steady, resulting in incredibly smooth, professional-looking video footage and sharp photos, free from shakes or jitters.
Q7: Should I consider a drone with a built-in camera or one that uses an external camera?
A7: Drones with built-in cameras (especially those with integrated gimbals) often offer a more streamlined, optimized experience with seamless control and real-time FPV. They tend to be more compact and the camera system is designed specifically for the drone. Drones that support external cameras (like the 3DR Solo and its GoPro mount) offer flexibility to swap out cameras or use existing equipment, but may require more setup and can sometimes be less stable than an integrated system.
Conclusion: Charting Your Course for Aerial Excellence
Choosing the best camera for 3DR Solo drone, or deciding on a modern alternative, really boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re dedicated to keeping your 3DR Solo flying, options like the Kodak PIXPRO offer unique creative angles, and crucial accessories like Master Airscrew propellers can significantly enhance your flight performance for better camera stability.
However, if you’re eyeing the future of aerial photography, the diverse range of standalone drones reviewed here — from the ultra-portable TTROARDS and LANSAND models to the professional-grade Bingchat and Bwine F7 Pro series — offer incredible advancements in camera quality, stabilization, flight time, and smart features. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot looking for an upgrade or a beginner wanting to dip your toes into drone videography, there’s an option that’s just right for you.
Happy flying and capturing those breathtaking views!
