Are you on the hunt for the best cheap drone for a kid? It’s a fantastic idea! Drones aren’t just cool gadgets anymore; they’re gateways to developing spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination, and a basic understanding of physics and engineering. For young pilots, starting with an affordable, durable, and easy-to-fly model is key to ensuring a fun and frustration-free experience. No one wants to see an expensive drone crash and burn on its first flight!
We know you want to get your child excited about flying without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you a list of the top 10 budget-friendly drones perfect for beginners and adventurous youngsters. These aren’t just cheap drones; they’re the best cheap drones, packed with features that make learning to fly a blast while standing up to the inevitable bumps and tumbles. Let’s dive in and find the perfect best cheap drone for a kid that’s sure to be a hit!
1. ALTITACO Drones for Kids With Cool Light, Kids Drone with…
This ALTITACO drone is a fantastic starter option, designed specifically with young, aspiring pilots in mind. Its standout feature is the vibrant, controllable lighting effects that make flying extra fun, especially indoors or at dusk. It’s incredibly user-friendly, allowing kids to literally throw it into the air to take off, making it super accessible for even the youngest flyers.
- Key Features:
- One-click take-off/landing, hand-toss take-off.
- Headless Mode for easy direction control.
- Cool, controllable lighting effects and cute modeling.
- 3D flip, height maintenance, surround, and self-rotation functions.
- 3-speed modes for varying skill levels.
- Sturdy, crash-resistant ABS material with full propeller protection.
- Fully meshed propeller design for kid and pet safety.
- Comes with two rechargeable batteries for longer play.
- Pros:
- Extremely easy for beginners and young children to operate.
- Full protection design makes it very durable and safe.
- Engaging light features add to the fun.
- Two batteries extend flight time.
- Ideal for indoor use.
- Cons:
- No camera feature.
- Limited flight time per battery (9 minutes).
- User Impressions: Parents frequently highlight how robust and forgiving this drone is, perfect for those initial clumsy attempts. Kids absolutely adore the light show and simple controls, making it a brilliant first drone.
See it on Amazon here
2. FLYVISTA Cool Mini Drone with Camera for Kids Adults…
The FLYVISTA Cool Mini Drone isn’t just cool-looking with its 2024 shark-shaped design; it’s also a serious contender if you’re looking for a best cheap drone for a kid that includes a camera. The 1080P HD camera with FPV (First Person View) allows your child to see the world from above in real-time, adding an exciting dimension to their flying adventures. Plus, with three batteries, the fun lasts much longer!
- Key Features:
- Unique shark-shaped design.
- 1080P HD 90-degree manually adjustable camera with FPV function.
- Three 1,800mAh rechargeable batteries for a total of 30 minutes flight time.
- One-click take-off/landing and optical flow positioning for stable hovering.
- Headless mode, emergency stop, and propeller guards.
- Multiple functions: 360° flips, 3-gear speeds, gravity sensing, gesture control, path flight.
- Can be controlled by remote or app.
- Pros:
- High-definition camera for its price point.
- Extended flight time with three included batteries.
- Very stable thanks to optical flow positioning.
- User-friendly features ideal for beginners.
- Stylish design makes it a great gift.
- Cons:
- Outdoor use may be affected by wind.
- Frequent flips can reduce battery life.
- User Impressions: Many users are impressed by the camera quality and stability for a drone in this price range. The multiple batteries are a huge plus for continuous play, and the shark design is a definite hit with kids.
See it on Amazon here
3. Flymevac Drone with Camera, Dual 720HD, Drone for Kids…
The Flymevac Drone takes aerial photography for kids to the next level with its dual 720P HD cameras, offering multi-angle shooting possibilities, including true vertical shots. This feature alone makes it stand out, giving young filmmakers and photographers more creative freedom. Its intelligent gesture control also adds a futuristic, hands-free element to capturing moments.
- Key Features:
- Intelligent Gesture Control for photos and videos (“V” gesture to snap, “palm” to record).
- Cool multi-mode lighting effects.
- Dual 720P HD cameras (head camera 90° adjustable, bottom for vertical shooting).
- Wi-Fi transmission for real-time video to smartphone.
- Waypoint flight, gravity control, emergency stop, headless mode, 360° rolls, fixed altitude hover.
- Three speed settings.
- Sturdy, foldable design with four protective brackets.
- Comes with two batteries for a total of 12 minutes flight time.
- Pros:
- Unique dual-camera setup for diverse shooting.
- Gesture control is fun and innovative for kids.
- Foldable design makes it portable.
- Rich set of functions for learning and fun.
- Cons:
- Slightly shorter total flight time compared to some competitors (12 minutes).
- 720P camera resolution might not be as sharp as 1080P options.
- User Impressions: Customers love the gesture control feature, finding it highly entertaining for kids. The dual cameras are also a big hit, offering variety in shots. Its foldability makes it convenient for travel.
See it on Amazon here
4. FLYVISTA Mini Drone with Camera for Adults Kids, 1080P…
This FLYVISTA Mini Drone shares many fantastic qualities with its shark-shaped sibling, but with a more traditional mini-drone aesthetic. It continues to deliver an excellent camera experience with a 1080P HD adjustable lens and FPV, allowing kids to capture high-quality aerial views and share them instantly. The commitment to longer flight times with three batteries remains a huge selling point for uninterrupted fun.
- Key Features:
- 1080P HD 90-degree manually adjustable camera with FPV.
- Three 1,800mAh rechargeable batteries for a total of 30 minutes flight time.
- Easy-to-use: one-click take-off/landing, optical flow positioning for stable flight.
- Headless mode, emergency stop, and propeller guard.
- Multiple functions: 360° flips, 3-gear speeds, gravity sensing, gesture control, path flight.
- Can be controlled by remote or app.
- Pros:
- Great camera quality for its price point.
- Excellent flight duration with three batteries.
- Very stable and easy to control for beginners.
- Packed with fun flight features like gesture control and path flight.
- Cons:
- Identical to product 2 in features, but without the unique shark design.
- Wind can affect outdoor performance.
- User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise its stable flight and the quality of the 1080P camera. The long total flight time provided by multiple batteries is a common highlight, making it a top contender for the best cheap drone for a kid.
See it on Amazon here
5. Naseto 1080P HD Foldable Drone with Camera for Adults &…
The Naseto Foldable Drone is a fantastic all-rounder, offering a respectable 1080P HD camera with FPV and a convenient foldable design, making it highly portable. What really sets it apart for kids is its ‘Follow Me’ mode (via app), allowing it to autonomously track movement, adding a professional touch to their home videos. It also boasts an impressive 30 minutes of flight time, thanks to two high-capacity batteries.
- Key Features:
- 1080P HD WiFi camera with 90° adjustable lens and real-time FPV.
- One-key takeoff/landing, headless mode, altitude hold, three speed levels.
- Propeller obstacle avoidance.
- Fun Flight Features: 360° flips, waypoint flight, gravity control, Follow Me mode, gesture-controlled selfies (some via app).
- Two rechargeable batteries for up to 30 minutes of flight time (15 mins each).
- Foldable design, lightweight (under 249g – no FAA registration needed).
- Includes a carrying case.
- Pros:
- Excellent battery life for its category.
- Foldable and lightweight, great for portability.
- ‘Follow Me’ mode is a unique and engaging feature for kids.
- No FAA registration required due to its weight.
- Cons:
- Some advanced features require app control.
- Obstacle avoidance is basic (propeller guards).
- User Impressions: This drone is often praised for its long flight time and portability. Users find the camera quality surprisingly good for the price, and the ‘Follow Me’ function often delights children, making it feel like a much more expensive drone.
See it on Amazon here
6. UranHub Drones for Kids, Mini Drone with 5 Lighting…
If vibrant visuals are what you’re after, the UranHub Mini Drone is a showstopper. Featuring 24 RGB LEDs, it offers 5 stunning visual effects that can transform night flights into a dazzling display. Beyond the lights, it’s incredibly user-friendly with one-button controls and a simple toss-to-launch feature, making it a captivating option for the best cheap drone for a kid who loves a light show.
- Key Features:
- 24 RGB LEDs creating 5 colorful lighting effects.
- 2 upgraded modular batteries provide 22 minutes of total flight time.
- Safety protection design with 4 durable propeller guards.
- Crafted from high-quality ABS material for durability.
- One-button take-off/landing, toss-to-launch.
- 3-speed modes, Altitude Hold, and Headless Mode.
- Pros:
- Spectacular lighting effects for engaging flights.
- Good total flight time with two batteries.
- Very durable and safe with full propeller protection.
- Easy for absolute beginners to control.
- Cons:
- No camera feature.
- Requires specific charging cable.
- User Impressions: Kids are absolutely captivated by the UranHub’s light displays, often spending hours creating light patterns in the air. Parents appreciate its robust build and the peace of mind offered by the propeller guards, confirming it’s a tough toy.
See it on Amazon here
7. HOFMOC Mini Drone for Kids 8-15, Indoor Drones Gifts for…
The HOFMOC Mini Drone is a true “beginner-friendly” champion, perfect for kids aged 8-15. Its robust, fully enclosed propeller guard ensures maximum safety for both the drone and its surroundings, making it ideal for indoor flights. The five dazzling light modes are a huge hit, especially when flying with friends, adding an element of fun and distinction to each drone.
- Key Features:
- Beginner-friendly: One Key Takeoff/Landing, throw-to-go, Headless Mode.
- Full propeller guards for safety and durability.
- Five dazzling light modes for night flights and distinguishing drones in races.
- Two upgraded 1000mAh modular batteries for up to 22 minutes of flight time.
- USB Type-C charging for faster charging (1 hour).
- One-piece structural design with professional-grade ABS material.
- Exciting flight modes: Circle Fly, Automatic Rotation, 3D Flips, 3 speed levels.
- Pros:
- Excellent safety features with full propeller protection.
- Fast charging with USB-C is a great convenience.
- Robust build quality can withstand crashes.
- Multiple light modes add to the fun for competitive play.
- Cons:
- No camera.
- Primarily designed for indoor use.
- User Impressions: This drone is a consistent favorite for its durability and ease of use. Parents love the full propeller protection, and kids find the light modes and quick charging super appealing, keeping the fun going for longer.
See it on Amazon here
8. Drone with Camera, 1080P HD FPV Camera, One Key Take…
This versatile drone combines an excellent 1080P HD FPV camera with a suite of beginner-friendly features, making it a strong contender for the best cheap drone for a kid who wants to capture their flights. The adjustable lens and optical flow positioning ensure clearer, smoother footage, while intelligent flight modes like trajectory flight and gravity sensing add an extra layer of excitement and control.
- Key Features:
- 1080P HD camera with 90° adjustable lens and optical flow positioning.
- Beginner-friendly: one-key take-off/landing, headless mode, 3 speed levels.
- Gesture selfies and voice commands for hands-free control.
- Smart modes via “Bokigibi” app: trajectory flight, circle fly, 360° flips, gravity sensing.
- Two batteries for up to 24 minutes of total flight time.
- Lightweight (135g – no FAA registration).
- Foldable design, emergency stop, and carrying case included.
- Pros:
- Good camera quality with adjustable lens and stable footage.
- Plenty of smart flight modes via the app for advanced fun.
- Long total flight time with two batteries.
- Very lightweight and portable, no FAA registration needed.
- Cons:
- Reliance on a specific app (“Bokigibi”) for some advanced features.
- Optical flow may struggle in low light or complex environments.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend the drone’s stable flight and the quality of the 1080P camera for the price. The ease of control for beginners and the engaging app features are often highlighted, making it a great learning tool.
See it on Amazon here
9. Mini Drone for Kids,Beginners,Adults,RC Small Nano Drones…
Prepare for double the fun with this revolutionary 2-in-1 drone and car hybrid! It’s not just a drone; it transforms into a speedy racing car on the ground, offering endless excitement in two different modes. This unique versatility makes it an incredibly engaging choice, delivering maximum fun and value for a best cheap drone for a kid who loves both flying and racing.
- Key Features:
- Revolutionary 2-in-1 drone & car hybrid.
- Built with racing-grade PVC for crash-proof durability.
- Full nylon ABS propeller guards for safety.
- Instant one-key emergency stop and auto-hover altitude hold.
- Low/medium/high speed modes, 3D flips.
- Beginner-friendly headless mode.
- Sleek racing car design with dynamic running LED lights.
- Includes 2 batteries for 14 minutes of flight time.
- 2.4Ghz remote control allows multiple players simultaneously.
- Pros:
- Unique hybrid design offers incredible play value.
- Highly durable and safe with full propeller protection.
- LED lights and racing design are very appealing.
- Great for family bonding with multi-player capability.
- Cons:
- Slightly shorter total flight time compared to some (14 minutes).
- No camera feature.
- User Impressions: This drone is a massive hit with kids because of its dual functionality – they love transforming it from a flyer to a racer. Parents appreciate its durability and how much entertainment it provides, making it a standout toy.
See it on Amazon here
10. Remote Control Airplane RC Plane Drones for Kids 8-12…
This isn’t just a drone in the traditional sense; it’s an RC plane that behaves like one, offering a unique flying experience for kids. With its 6-axis gyro stabilization, it provides incredibly stable hovering and smooth flights, making it surprisingly easy for beginners to master. The durable EPP foam body ensures it can handle plenty of bumps and drops, which is essential for young pilots learning the ropes.
- Key Features:
- 6-axis gyro stabilization for stable hovering and smooth flights.
- One-button 360° flips and circle fly.
- Anti-interference 2.4Ghz remote control with 50-meter range.
- Effortless flying control: one-touch take-off/landing, headless mode.
- Adjustable 3-speed modes.
- Emergency stop button.
- Durable EPP foam body for crash resistance.
- Vibrant LED lights for night flying.
- Low battery alarm.
- Two batteries extend flight time to 18 minutes.
- Pros:
- Unique RC plane experience with drone-like stability.
- Extremely durable EPP foam body.
- Very stable and easy for beginners to control.
- LED lights are great for evening flights.
- Low battery alarm is a thoughtful safety feature.
- Cons:
- Different flying dynamic than quadcopters, might take slight adjustment.
- No camera feature.
- User Impressions: Customers love how surprisingly stable and easy to fly this RC plane is, especially for first-timers. Its foam construction receives high marks for surviving countless crashes, proving it’s truly kid-proof. The LED lights are a fun bonus for night flights.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section: All Your Questions About Kids’ Drones Answered!
Finding the best cheap drone for a kid can bring up a few questions. Here are some common ones to help you make the best choice:
Q1: What age is appropriate for a kid’s drone?
A1: Most kids’ drones are designed for ages 8 and up. However, some very simple, durable mini-drones can be suitable for children as young as 6 with adult supervision. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age, as skill levels and maturity vary.
Q2: Are cheap drones durable enough for kids?
A2: Absolutely! Many cheap drones for kids are specifically built with durability in mind. Look for models made from flexible, crash-resistant materials like ABS plastic or EPP foam, and those with full propeller guards. These features are crucial for surviving the inevitable bumps and crashes young pilots will encounter.
Q3: Do I need to register a drone for my child with the FAA?
A3: For recreational use in the United States, drones weighing less than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) generally do not require FAA registration. Most of the mini and toy drones designed for kids fall into this category, making them hassle-free to get started with. Always check the specific drone’s weight and local regulations.
Q4: How long do the batteries last on kid-friendly drones?
A4: Battery life varies greatly, but for most cheap drones for kids, you can expect flight times between 6 to 15 minutes per battery. Many models come with multiple batteries (2 or 3) to extend total playtime, which is a huge bonus. Charging usually takes about an hour.
Q5: Are drones with cameras good for kids, or should I stick to camera-free models?
A5: Drones with cameras can add an exciting dimension to flying, allowing kids to capture photos and videos. If your child is interested in photography or wants to see the world from a new perspective, a camera drone is a great choice. However, if they’re very young or just learning the basics, a simpler camera-free drone might be less distracting and easier to focus on flying first.
Q6: Can kids’ drones be flown indoors and outdoors?
A6: Many mini drones for kids are designed for indoor use due to their smaller size and protective guards. They’re great for practicing in a safe, controlled environment. Larger or more powerful models can often be flown outdoors, but it’s always best to choose a calm day with minimal wind. Check the product description for recommended flying environments.
Q7: What are ‘Headless Mode’ and ‘Altitude Hold’ and why are they good for beginners?
A7:
* Headless Mode: This feature simplifies control by making the drone’s forward direction relative to the pilot, regardless of which way the drone’s “front” is facing. It eliminates confusion for new flyers.
* Altitude Hold: This function automatically maintains the drone at a set height, allowing the pilot to focus on steering left, right, forward, and backward without worrying about throttle control. Both features significantly reduce the learning curve for young pilots.
