Consumer drones are not easy to put in different categories. However, we can categorize them based on price. If you are just starting out, we suggest that you go for a basic model, which will not cost you more than a few hundred dollars. The high-end models will cost you a few thousand dollars. While the technical specs of a drone are not as complicated as the specs of a smartphone, you still need to take into account a few factors before opting for a certain drone. Given below are some of the features that you should look for in a good drone.

Motors

Ideally, you should spend a few hundred dollars more and go for a drone with brushless motors. As a matter of fact, these motors are smoother, quicker, and faster. Plus, they last longer than the other type of motors.

Camera

The quality of the footage recorded by your done will depend upon the camera on the machine. Drones that carry 4K cameras come with a gimbal that keeps the recorder steady even when the drone is moving around in the wind.

Direct recording

Ideally, if you want to record a smooth footage, we suggest that you look for a drone that will store the video on a built-in memory card.

Flight time

The flight time of a drone can be between 5 and 30 minutes. The high-end models will give a flight time of 30 minutes at max before you need to change the battery. Therefore, make sure you go for the right type of drone if you need a longer flight time.

GPS

Drones that come with GPS are better. With this feature, you can make the machine hover over a place. Moreover, this feature allows you to land the copter on the same place by pressing a single button.

Live transmission

Not all drones allow you to transmit the video live on your phone or remote control. This feature is known as first-person view or FPV. You have to go for this feature if you want to see what your copter is filming in the air. These machines will cost you a bit more, though. Therefore, you should adjust your budget accordingly.

Upkeep and Protection

Before you buy a drone, make sure you know the cost of its spare parts. Moreover, make sure the machine is strong enough to take hard crashes. This is true especially if you are buying one for your kids. If the spare parts are expensive, you will have to set some money aside for the replacements.

Range

While the law requires you keep the quad copter in view, you still need one that offers good range. The high-end models come with a range of hundreds of meters. This means you can control the drone from a great distance using your controller. Longer range reduces your chances of losing the control of the machine.