Think you can’t get a decent drone without breaking the bank? Think again! While premium drones can cost a pretty penny, there are some fantastic options out there that deliver plenty of fun and impressive features for under $100. Whether you’re a curious beginner, looking for a cool gift for a kid, or just want to dip your toes into aerial photography without a huge investment, finding the best drone for under 100 is totally doable.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a hand-picked selection of budget-friendly drones that don’t skimp on the excitement. From mini drones perfect for indoor flying to camera drones capable of capturing surprising HD footage, these picks prove that great flight performance and user-friendly features can be had on a modest budget. Let’s dive into our top choices!
1. Drone with Camera 1080P HD FPV Foldable Drone for…
This foldable drone is a fantastic all-rounder for beginners and offers a surprisingly robust set of features for its price. What really makes it stand out is its 1080P HD camera with an adjustable angle, allowing you to capture some pretty cool aerial photos and videos. Plus, with a generous 26 minutes of flight time thanks to two included batteries, your aerial adventures won’t be cut short.
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Key Features:
- 1080P HD adjustable FPV camera with APP control (“Velcase VGO”)
- Real-time FPV video transmission and gesture photo/video
- Optical Flow Positioning and Barometric Altitude Hold for stable flight
- Multiple functions for kids/beginners: 3D flips, headless mode, 3-speed modes, one-key takeoff/landing/return/emergency stop
- Foldable design with portable bag and full accessories (prop guards, spare blades, remote batteries)
- Two 1050mAh batteries providing up to 26 minutes of flight time
- Trajectory flight and voice control
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Pros:
- Excellent camera resolution for the price point
- Very stable flight with optical flow positioning
- Extended flight time with two batteries
- Feature-rich and extremely beginner-friendly
- Highly portable with included carrying case
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Cons:
- Specific app required for advanced features
- Camera angle adjustment is manual rather than remote
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User Impressions: Users love how easy this drone is to fly, making it a perfect beginner drone. Many highlight the fun features and decent camera quality for capturing memories without a big expense.
2. Drone with Camera for Adults, 2K HD FPV Drones with…
Looking for a camera drone that punches above its weight? This Loiley drone boasts a 2K HD camera with a 90° adjustable angle, letting you snag breathtaking photos and crisp videos. Its incredible user-friendliness, combined with an ultra-portable design weighing under 250g (meaning no pesky FAA registration!), makes it an ideal travel companion for spontaneous aerial shots.
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Key Features:
- 2K HD camera with 90° remote adjustable angle and FPV transmission
- User-friendly one-touch start/land button, headless mode, and gravity sensing
- Upgraded Optical Flow Positioning and Altitude Hold for stable flight
- Foldable and lightweight design (under 250g) for portability and no FAA registration
- Two rechargeable batteries extending flight time to approximately 26 minutes
- Low battery warning and overvoltage protection for safe flying
- Includes portable bag, propeller guards, spare fan blades, and remote control batteries
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Pros:
- Superior 2K camera resolution for a drone in this category
- Extremely portable and FAA-friendly, great for travelers
- Very simple to operate, excellent for first-time pilots
- Stable flight ensures high-quality photo and video capture
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Cons:
- Gravity sensing control might take some getting used to for new users
- No specific app mentioned in features
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User Impressions: Pilots appreciate its simplicity and the impressive 2K camera quality. Its compact size and ease of use make it a popular choice for quick, impromptu flights.
3. Drone with Camera for Adults – 2K HD Camera FPV…
This affordable drone is a standout thanks to its incorporation of brushless motors – a feature usually found in higher-priced models. These motors mean greater durability, less noise, and superior wind resistance, giving you a much more stable flight experience. Paired with a 2K HD camera and comprehensive safety features like auto-return, it’s a smart pick for both adults and aspiring pilots.
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Key Features:
- Portable, foldable, and under 250g design (no FAA registration required)
- 2K HD camera with 5GHz FPV, 110° wide-angle, and 90° adjustable lens
- Built-in shock-absorbing technology for stable aerial video
- Brushless motors for higher energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and better wind resistance
- Altitude hold system for stable hovering
- Smart safety features: overcurrent protection, emergency stop, auto-return (low battery/signal loss/GPS)
- Multiple flight modes: 2 speed settings, custom flight paths, circle fly, headless mode, one-key takeoff
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Pros:
- Brushless motors significantly enhance stability and lifespan
- Good 2K camera with 5GHz FPV for clearer real-time transmission
- Robust safety features including GPS auto-return
- FAA-friendly design is a huge plus for ease of use
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Cons:
- GPS mode often requires outdoor activation, as noted
- Beginners should practice in calm conditions as specified in tips
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User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the stability provided by the brushless motors and the clear footage. It’s often recommended as a good step-up drone for adults looking for more advanced features on a budget.
4. DJI Mini 4K, Drone with 4K UHD Camera for Adults,…
It’s rare to find a DJI drone, especially one with a 4K camera and a 3-axis gimbal, making it onto a “drones under $100” list, but here we are! The DJI Mini 4K (basic kit) truly redefines what’s possible at this price point. Known for its incredible image stabilization and cinematic-quality footage, this camera drone is perfect for anyone serious about capturing stunning aerial content.
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Key Features:
- Under 249g design, eliminating the need for FAA registration
- 4K UHD camera with a 3-axis gimbal for professional-grade image stabilization
- Impressive 38kph (Level 5) wind resistance
- Brushless motors for enhanced power and high-altitude takeoff
- Beginner-friendly: one-tap takeoff/landing, GPS Return to Home (RTH), stable hovering
- Intelligent QuickShots (Helix, Dronie, Rocket, Circle, Boomerang) for automatic cinematic videos
- Single battery provides a solid 31 minutes of flight time
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Pros:
- Unmatched 4K camera quality with 3-axis gimbal stabilization at this price
- Exceptional wind resistance for stable outdoor flights
- Reliable GPS features and intelligent flight modes
- DJI’s renowned build quality and user experience
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Cons:
- DJI Fly app not available on Google Play (requires direct download)
- While listed under $100, prices can fluctuate; ensure you grab it at the right time.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the aerial photography capabilities and stability of this mini drone. It’s often cited as the best drone for under 100 for those prioritizing camera quality.
5. Naseto 1080P HD Foldable Drone with Camera for Adults &…
This Naseto foldable drone is an excellent choice for beginners and kids alike, packing a lot of fun into a compact, affordable package. Its 1080P HD camera with FPV capabilities lets you explore from above, while features like “Follow Me” mode and gesture control add a touch of advanced fun. With two batteries offering up to 30 minutes of flight, it’s ready for longer adventures.
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Key Features:
- 1080P HD WiFi camera with 90° adjustable lens and real-time FPV transmission
- Beginner-friendly: one-key takeoff/landing, headless mode, altitude hold, 3 speed levels
- Propeller obstacle avoidance for added safety
- Fun Flight Features: 360° flips, waypoint flight, gravity control, Follow Me mode, gesture-controlled selfies
- Two rechargeable batteries for up to 30 minutes of total flight time
- Foldable design, lightweight (under 249g), and includes a carrying case (no FAA registration)
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Pros:
- Very forgiving for new pilots with multiple safety and ease-of-use features
- Engaging smart flight modes like Follow Me and gesture control
- Good flight time with dual batteries
- Portable and FAA-friendly design, perfect for gifting
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Cons:
- Some advanced features require app control
- Camera adjustment is not remote
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User Impressions: Many users find this kids drone (and adults!) to be incredibly fun and easy to learn. The combination of features and flight time makes it a popular choice for recreational flying.
6. GPS Drone with Camera 4K, Under 249g, 45 Mins Flight,…
If extended flight time is at the top of your list for a budget drone, look no further! This HK33 GPS drone boasts an incredible 45 minutes of total flight time thanks to two powerful 1800mAh batteries. It doesn’t stop there – with a 4K camera (for photos), 5G WiFi transmission, and robust brushless motors, it offers a stable and feature-rich FPV drone experience.
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Key Features:
- 4K (photo) / 2K (video) camera with F2.15 110° wide-angle lens, physical vibration reduction, and 90° remote control adjustment
- Upgraded 5G WiFi FPV transmission (up to 985 feet) and extended flight distance (up to 1640 feet)
- Two 1800mAh batteries provide an impressive 45 minutes of total flight time
- Advanced GPS module with Auto Return, Follow, Route Planning, and Fly Around functions
- Brushless motors offer strong Level 5 wind resistance and enhanced stability
- Lightweight (under 250g) and foldable design with carrying case (no FAA registration)
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Pros:
- Outstanding flight time, minimizing interruptions
- Comprehensive GPS intelligent functions for safe and versatile flying
- Brushless motors ensure superior stability and durability against wind
- Good range with 5G WiFi and remote controller repeater
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Cons:
- 4K resolution is for photos; video records at 2K
- Some advanced features rely heavily on GPS signal
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the long flight duration and the reliability of the GPS features. It’s a great option for those wanting more flight time for aerial photography exploration.
7. Drone with Camera, 2K HD FPV Drones with GPS Auto…
This Scrubuz camera drone combines a crisp 2K HD camera with smooth 5G Wi-Fi FPV transmission and an advanced GPS system, offering a fantastic blend of image quality and smart flight features. Equipped with durable brushless motors and a generous 32 minutes of flight time (with two batteries), it’s a robust option for both beginners and more experienced pilots.
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Key Features:
- 2K high-resolution photos and videos with smooth 5G Wi-Fi transmission
- 90° electric adjustable camera with 110° wide-angle lens
- Advanced GPS positioning with Precision Auto Return-to-Home (RTH), Smart Tracking (Follow Me/Circle Fly/Waypoints Fly), and flight path recording
- High-efficiency brushless motors (20,000-hour lifespan) and Level 5 wind resistance
- Two rechargeable batteries provide up to 32 minutes of total flight time
- Foldable design, lightweight (under 249g), and includes a carrying bag (no FAA registration)
- Propeller guards and spare propeller blades included for safety
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Pros:
- Good 2K camera with convenient electric adjustment and 5G FPV
- Reliable and comprehensive GPS features for safety and intelligent flight modes
- Durable brushless motors for stable flight in varying conditions
- Excellent total flight time with two batteries
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Cons:
- Requires initial calibration for optimal performance (as per helpful tips)
- SD card capacity is limited to 64GB (though this is common)
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User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its reliable GPS auto-return and the smooth, stable flight thanks to its brushless motors. It’s seen as a great drone for adults looking for smart features without the high cost.
8. Drone with 1080P Camera for Beginners and Adults, Foldable…
If you’re looking for the absolute easiest entry into the world of drones, this Hiturbo model might just be your best drone for under 100. Designed with simplicity in mind, it boasts fewer steps to fly, making it incredibly user-friendly for beginners. Its 1080P manually adjustable camera lets you capture interesting perspectives, while two batteries ensure you get a solid 24 minutes of flight time.
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Key Features:
- 1080P manually adjustable camera for diverse photo/video angles
- Two rechargeable batteries providing up to 24 minutes of total flight time
- Control via remote or “Hiturbo FPV” smartphone app
- Beginner-friendly features: altitude hold, 3D flip, headless mode, one-key take off/landing, speed adjustment, voice control
- Simplified operation with no manual pairing required
- Helpful gyroscope calibration tips for stable flight
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Pros:
- Extremely easy to learn and operate, ideal as a first beginner drone
- Decent 1080P camera for casual fun and basic inspections
- Good total flight time for practice and enjoyment
- Voice control adds a unique, fun element
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Cons:
- Camera requires manual adjustment before flight
- Some app features require disconnecting the remote control
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User Impressions: Pilots consistently highlight its ease of use as its strongest point, making it a perfect starter drone. Many appreciate how quickly they can get it airborne and start having fun.
9. GPS Drones with Camera for Adults 1080P, 4.5″LCD Screen…
This K600 GPS drone offers a unique advantage for beginners: a 4.5-inch LCD screen built right into the remote control. This means you don’t always need your smartphone to capture 720p photos/videos or see what the drone sees, simplifying the experience significantly. Combined with GPS auto-return and powerful brushless motors, it’s a well-rounded and user-friendly option.
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Key Features:
- Integrated 4.5-inch LCD screen remote control for direct photo/video capture (720p) and FPV
- 5GHz real-time transmission, 120° wide-angle & 90° electric adjustable camera
- Supports up to 4K HD pictures when connected to a smartphone
- GPS Auto-Return, Follow Me, Point-of-Interest (POI) flight, and Circle Flying modes
- GPS & Optical Flow System for precise hovering and stable flight
- Brushless Motor for high speed, durability, and better wind resistance
- Portable, foldable (under 250g, no FAA registration), with an included handbag
- 2200 mAh UL-certified battery providing 22 minutes of flight time
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Pros:
- Built-in LCD screen on the remote enhances ease of use, especially for beginners
- Reliable GPS and optical flow systems for stable and smart flight
- Brushless motors contribute to excellent flight performance and wind resistance
- FAA-friendly design for hassle-free outdoor adventures
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Cons:
- Video resolution on the LCD screen is 720p (4K only for smartphone pictures)
- Flight time is good but slightly less than some competitors with two batteries
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User Impressions: The integrated LCD screen is a massive hit with users, making it incredibly intuitive. They also praise the GPS features for added confidence during flights.
10. DJI Mini 4K Camera Drone Combo, Drone with 4K UHD…
If the single-battery DJI Mini 4K (Product #4) piqued your interest, this combo pack takes it to the next level, cementing its position as a top contender for the best drone for under 100 if you can snag it at the right price. With two batteries, you get a fantastic 62 minutes of total flight time, letting you truly unleash the power of its 4K UHD camera with a 3-axis gimbal. This is aerial photography gold on a budget.
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Key Features:
- Under 249g design means no FAA registration required
- Unrivaled 4K UHD camera with a 3-axis gimbal for incredibly stable and cinematic footage
- Robust 38kph (Level 5) wind resistance
- Impressive 10km Max HD video transmission with excellent anti-interference capabilities
- Two batteries provide an extended total flight time of 62 minutes
- Beginner-friendly: one-tap takeoff/landing, GPS Return to Home (RTH), stable hovering
- Intelligent QuickShots (Helix, Dronie, Rocket, Circle, Boomerang) for effortless professional videos
- Includes shoulder bag, propeller holder, spare propellers, and more
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Pros:
- The ultimate camera drone quality with 4K and 3-axis gimbal in this price bracket
- Exceptional flight stability, even in windy conditions
- Longest flight time in this list with the dual-battery combo
- Unmatched video transmission range and beginner-friendly features
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Cons:
- DJI Fly app not available on Google Play (requires direct download from DJI website)
- Can occasionally push just over the $100 mark depending on sales, but often available close to it.
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User Impressions: This combo is consistently hailed for delivering professional-grade results at an unbelievably low price. Users love the extended flight time and the sheer quality of the captured footage.
Conclusion
As you can see, finding the best drone for under 100 isn’t just a pipe dream anymore – it’s a reality! From ultra-portable mini drones perfect for casual flying to impressive camera drones that can capture 4K photos and 2K videos, there’s a fantastic budget-friendly drone out there for everyone.
Whether you prioritize ease of use, camera quality, extended flight time, or smart GPS features, our curated list offers high-value options that won’t strain your wallet. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and start exploring the skies without the hefty price tag!
FAQ Section
Q1: What features should I look for in a drone under $100?
A1: When searching for a budget drone, prioritize features like altitude hold for stability, headless mode for easier control, one-key takeoff/landing, and decent flight time (ideally 10-15 minutes per battery, more with multiple batteries). If a camera is important, look for HD resolution (720P, 1080P, or even 2K photo/video) and FPV (First Person View) for real-time streaming. GPS functionality is a huge bonus for safety features like auto-return.
Q2: Will I need to register a drone under $100 with the FAA?
A2: Most mini drones and kids drones under $100 weigh less than 250 grams (0.55 pounds). For recreational use, drones weighing less than 250g typically do not require FAA registration. Always check the drone’s specifications and the latest FAA regulations to be sure, especially if you plan to fly commercially. Many of the drones on our list specifically mention being under 250g.
Q3: How long do drones under $100 usually fly on a single charge?
A3: Flight times for affordable drones in this price range typically vary from 8 to 15 minutes per battery. However, many models, as seen in our reviews, combat this by including two or even three batteries, extending the total flight time significantly to 20-45 minutes, which is excellent for practice and fun.
Q4: Can I get a drone with a camera under $100 that takes good pictures/videos?
A4: Absolutely! While you won’t get professional-grade quality, many camera drones under $100 offer 1080P HD or even 2K photo/video resolution. Some, like the DJI Mini 4K, even offer 4K with a 3-axis gimbal, which is truly remarkable for the price. Look for features like FPV for real-time viewing and altitude hold for stable shots.
Q5: Are these drones good for beginners and kids?
A5: Yes, many drones in this category are designed specifically as beginner drones. They often include user-friendly features like headless mode, one-key takeoff/landing, altitude hold, and propeller guards, which make them easy to control and forgiving for new pilots or younger users. They’re a great way to learn the basics of FPV flying without a steep learning curve.
Q6: What’s the difference between “Optical Flow Positioning” and “GPS” in these drones?
A6: Both help with stable flight. Optical Flow Positioning uses downward-facing cameras to “see” the ground pattern and maintain its position indoors or in areas with no GPS signal. It’s great for hovering. GPS (Global Positioning System) uses satellites to pinpoint the drone’s location outdoors, enabling more advanced features like auto-return to home, follow-me modes, and setting waypoints. Drones with both offer the best of both worlds!
Q7: Are “brushless motors” important for a budget drone?
A7: Yes, brushless motors are a fantastic feature to find in an affordable drone. They are more efficient, durable, quieter, and offer better power and wind resistance compared to traditional brushed motors. If a drone in this price range has brushless motors, it generally means better flight performance and longevity for your investment.
