The Best Drones for Photography and Videography

Introduction

If you've looked into drones, you've probably noticed that many of the top models come from DJI—a brand that truly dominates the scene. But they’re not the only great options out there. Here at Techgency, I’m excited to guide you through some of the best drones available (mostly from DJI, with a couple from other brands, because we’re focused on finding the top choices for photography and videography). Whether you're after cinematic shots or just want to capture everyday moments from a new angle, there’s a perfect drone for you on this list. And if high-quality images and videos are your main priority, you might want to skip the last option, as it’s tailored more for beginners eager to get started. Let’s dive in and find the right drone for your needs!

1. DJI Mavic 3 Pro : $2,199

2. DJI Mavic 3 Classic : $1,179

3. DJI Air 3S : $1,099

4. Autel EVO Lite+ : $999

5. DJI Mini 4 Pro : $759

6. DJI Mini 4K : $299

7. Autel Evo Nano+ : $679

8. DJI Avata 2 : $489

9. Ryze Tello : $99

The prices may vary for you so please check it out by yourself.

1. DJI Mavic 3 Pro

The Mavic 3 Pro is a powerful drone with a triple-camera configuration that consists of a 24mm EFL primary camera and two secondary cameras (70mm EFL and 166mm EFL) with hybrid zoom. This configuration may appear odd at first, but anyone familiar to the multi-lens technology of a smartphone would recognize it. The 20-megapixel primary camera has professional-grade capabilities like adjustable ISO, exposure, and aperture, and the secondary cameras, while not as strong, are nevertheless a major improvement over the original Mavic 3's dual-camera setup. Because the Medium Tele lens is f/2.8 and the tele lens is ̒/3.4, the 'Hasselblad' primary camera yields the best results, particularly when using ProRes footage with the Cine version.

Similar to a smartphone camera, the Mavic 3 Pro allows you to zoom digitally up to 28x or switch between lenses, though you'll notice leaps at 3x and 7x. Although useful, the telephoto lens may leave you wanting a little more, so those who are used to the iPhone 15 Pro or 16 Pro's three-lens system may find the experience similar. Nevertheless, the Mavic 3 Pro can easily manage a range of shooting situations. It can hover for up to 43 minutes and fly more than 15 kilometers at a time, making it perfect for lengthy survey trips.

Despite appearing consumer-focused due to its foldable design, this professional-grade drone is incredibly portable and performance-oriented. The Mavic 3 Pro Cine version has a built-in 1TB SSD to store uncompressed video and is intended for consumers that want the ProRes 422 HQ format. All the necessary components for expert aerial videography are included, including the DJI RC Pro controller with an integrated screen and a fixed SSD that requires video to be downloaded straight from the drone.

image by DroneXL

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Triple-camera setup for versatile shots.
• 20MP primary camera with ProRes video.
• 43 minutes of flight time and 15km range.
• Compact and portable design.
• Ideal for professional videography.

Cons:

• High price, especially the Cine version.
• Zoom lens may lack sharpness at high levels.
• Digital zoom reduces video quality.
• Larger than some other drones.

2. DJI Mavic 3 Classic

The Mavic 3 is a strong, high-end drone that is perfect for users who need exceptional performance, particularly in surveying, because of its hybrid zoom. In contrast, the Mavic 3 Classic offers a more compact form, retaining the impressive 4/3 Hasselblad sensor, 10-bit D-log capabilities and C1 certification but doing away with the low-resolution zoom camera. This enables artists who primarily use the 24mm EFL camera to benefit from the Mavic 3's extended range, advanced object-avoiding return-to-home, and remarkable battery life at a slightly lower cost.

Key capabilities from the original model, such as sophisticated subject tracking, panorama capture, and other features, are available on the Mavic 3 Classic from launch for those who are particularly interested in photography and videography. A well-rounded experience that seems professional right away is provided by these improvements, which solve some of the earlier drawbacks.

However, the later-released Mavic 3 Pro has improved upon the original and Classic models and fixed several early faults. Because of its greater versatility, the Pro model is a superior option; despite the substantial price difference, those who need flexibility might find the additional cameras to be worth. If you're certain that the wide camera will be sufficient on its own, the Classic is still a decent, less expensive choice.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 4/3 Hasselblad sensor for high-quality images.
• Advanced safety with return-to-home feature.
• Long battery life and range.
• Great for photographers using only the wide camera.

Cons:

• No zoom camera, less flexibility.
• Lacks the features of the Mavic 3 Pro.
• Pro version offers more camera options.

3. DJI Air 3S

Although the DJI Air 3S is nearly flawless, it is mostly sold directly to Americans, which may cause some consumers to choose the older DJI Air 3 model. Although the Air 3S offers significant improvements, that is still a good option. With a 48-megapixel 1/1.3-inch sensor for the 70mm tele lens and a new 50-megapixel 1-inch sensor for its 24mm primary camera, it offers a great deal of creative versatility for surveying or following moving objects.

With 42GB of internal storage and a completely updated design for convenience, the Air 3S is fully functional even without a MicroSD card. Despite being almost three times heavier than smaller "Mini" drones, it handles confidently in flight and provides better stability. Its dynamic range is particularly noteworthy, and consumers didn't see any problems with the way its twin sensors blended in low light.

With features like Waypoints, AI subject tracking, and a Lidar-powered low-light collision detection system, this drone actually competes with the more expensive Mavic 3 Pro in a number of areas. The Air 3S is a powerful, more cost-effective alternative for the Mavic 3 thanks to its 4x zoom, which is perfect for occasional survey work and produces crisp shots.

image by New Atlas

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 48MP 1/1.3-inch sensor for clear shots.
• AI tracking and smooth shots.
• Stable flight, even in low light.
• Lidar-based collision detection.

Cons:

• Heavier than "Mini" drones.
• Pricier than other mid-range models.
• Lacks some Pro features of Mavic 3.

4. Autel EVO Lite+

The Autel Robotics Evo Lite+ is a great option for anyone searching for a mid-range drone with exceptional photography and video capabilities. It captures high-quality photographs in a variety of lighting circumstances because to its 6-K camera, variable aperture, and 1-inch sensor. It can fly for up to 35 minutes and offers a variety of automated flight modes for creative photography. It is a little bigger than entry-level drones like the DJI Mini 2, but smaller than expensive drones like the DJI Mavic 3. However, because it lacks obstacle navigation, it is less suitable for small spaces.

The Evo Lite+'s 20MP camera produces sharp, colorful photos and 6K video at 30 frames per second. Additionally, it has a 3-axis gimbal for stability and can record 1080p video at 120 frames per second. Despite the typically excellent video quality, certain sharpening artifacts might show up in some lighting conditions. A flat Log profile allows the drone's image processing to be further improved, making it an option for anyone wishing to edit video. However, a few advanced video capabilities that could further improve the video quality are absent.

Additionally, the Evo Lite+ has an updated remote control that pairs with a smartphone rather than an integrated screen. It has forward, rear and downward sensors to help with obstacle avoidance, although it lacks some features available in more expensive versions, such as geofencing or ADS-B for aircraft identification. All things considered, it provides an excellent trade-off in camera quality and flight duration without the hefty price tag of premium drones.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 6K camera with 1-inch sensor.
• 35-minute flight time.
• Compact and portable.
• 3-axis gimbal for stable footage.

Cons:

• Lacks geofencing and ADS-B.
• No obstacle navigation.
• Some video sharpening in low light.

5. DJI Mini 4 Pro

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is free from numerous regulations in countries like the USA and the UK because it weighs less than 250 grams. it was released 18 months after the Mini 3 Pro, Due to significant improvements in image processing and obstacle avoidance, The DJI Mini 4 Pro  is an impressive competitor in its class. The fact that the Mini 4 Pro's lightweight construction doesn't compromise safety features or camera quality which is a common issue with other sub-250g drones.

The Mini 4 Pro provides a good performance with a flying time of up to 34 minutes (but it's actually closer to 25 minutes). The drone is practically crash-proof thanks to its sophisticated omnidirectional vision sensors. Its ActiveTrack 360 technology guarantees safety by avoiding obstacles and enables autonomous tracking, making it perfect for cinematic shots. Even pilots with no experience can fly smoothly because to the Mini 4 Pro's incredibly responsive and user-friendly controller.

Significant improvements have been made to the camera, which now boasts a 1/1.3-inch 48MP sensor, 4K video at 60 frames per second and slow-motion recording at 100 frames per second. For improved color grading in post-production, it also supports 10-bit D-Log M video, providing remarkable footage quality for a drone of its size. The camera is adaptable for apps like Instagram and TikTok since it can also rotate 90 degrees for vertical video. The Mini 4 Pro is a great option for daily drone photography and videography since it strikes a great mix between portability, safety and video quality, even though it can't match the performance of more expensive drones like the Mavic 3.

image by Engadget

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable (under 250g).
• 48MP sensor, 4K at 60fps.
• ActiveTrack 360 for dynamic shots.
• Up to 34 minutes of flight time.

Cons:

• Battery life lower than advertised.
• No zoom lens for more flexibility.
• Fewer advanced features than premium drones.

6. DJI Mini 4K

The DJI Mini 4K has surpassed the DJI Mini 2 SE as the most affordable "regular" drone (the DJI Neo is in a different type!).. Its specifications are on par with those found in a mid-range phone; they are good but not outstanding. The Mini 4K can fly steadily thanks to inbuilt sensors and features a 3-axis mechanical stabilizer for its camera, so it's still considerably superior to toy drones with their unsteady video quality.

With the Mini 4K, the days of 2.7K are over because a 4K camera is now available. One complaint that enthusiasts had with DJI's previous low-cost option was the lower resolution footage. In simple terms, it makes use of the same sensor but with more processing power, raising the video quality to the level that is required today. Like other 'Mini' drones, it weighs less than 250g and is portable and somewhat safe thanks to its foldable construction and propellers that unfold when not in use. The software is easy to use with features like orbit effects, auto-landing and return to home, . A beginner's tutorial is also available.

The phone acts as the screen, therefore you'll need a well-made remote control that can keep your phone charged. Media is stored on a MicroSD card for easy PC downloads but Wi-Fi is also an option, though a slow one. Although the internals and controllers have seen various changes over time, the shape of this drone has a familiar heritage; the Mini SE, Mini 2 SE, and even the original Mini 2 had similar frames. With about 30 minutes of usable flying time, it's an all-around straightforward and dependable drone.

image by The Tiny Camper Van

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable with solid 4K video.
• Compact design (under 250g).
• Easy to fly with auto features.
• Around 30 minutes of battery life.

Cons:

• Limited to 4K at 30fps.
• No onboard storage, needs a microSD.
• Lacks advanced video editing options.

7. Autel Evo Nano+

Designed for creators and enthusiasts, the Autel Robotics Evo Nano+ is a small, light drone with the benefit of a 249g takeoff weight, which enables it to avoid FAA registration in the US and facilitates flying in areas with strict drone rules. The Nano+, which has a 4K camera and gimbal stabilization, produces excellent video, although some customers think the film is over-processed. Convenience and safety are enhanced by the drone's 28-minute flying duration and three-way obstacle sensors. Its color options include Autel's trademark brilliant orange, which is clearly visible in the sky. But despite being lightweight, its plastic build is not as sturdy as those of DJI products like the Mini 3 Pro, and it does not have onboard storage, requiring consumers to store their videos on a microSDXC card.

Autel's Sky app, which is included with the Nano+, offers GPS-based return-to-home capabilities, camera control and battery monitoring. It has helpful shooting modes including automated Quick Shots and Hyperlapse, but its portrait mode is less productive. For better low-light performance, the camera employs a RYYB color filter, which might make dealing with raw images a little difficult because of color changes that need to be adjusted using a custom profile in editing software. Despite this, the drone's 50MP photo and 4K video modes produce steady, fluid footage; however, the lack of video fine-tuning tools and the potential for slightly sharper video quality are disadvantages.

All things considered, the Evo Nano+ is a good performer, but the DJI Mini 3 Pro, which costs less and has better video quality, a stronger build and more safety measures, is a close competitor. Although Autel's Nano+ is attractive due to its lightweight design, long battery life and ease of use, those seeking the best video performance might not be satisfied.

image by T3

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 4K camera with gimbal stabilization.
• Lightweight and FAA-exempt.
• 28-minute battery life.
• Multiple obstacle sensors for safety.

Cons:

• Plastic build, less durable.
• No onboard storage.
• Footage may look over-processed.
• Lacks fine-tuning for video.

8. DJI Avata 2

The DJI Avata 2 enhances the market for FPV (first-person view) drones by offering a more agile flying experience than conventional camera drones. Unlike traditional drones, which are designed for stability, FPV drones, like the Avata 2, are designed for speed and acrobatics, such as flips and loops. DJI's latest model makes FPV flying accessible to beginners by combining the drone with the DJI Goggles 3 and RC Motion 3 controller. Sharp Full HD OLED screens are featured in the goggles, and the user-friendly joystick makes it simpler for beginners to operate the drone through simple tilting motions.

Each bundle of the Avata 2 offers roughly 23 minutes of flight time and comes with either a single battery or three. A carrying case, additional propellers and a charging cradle are included in the more expensive bundle. Adjustable settings and a front camera feed allow users to inspect their surroundings without taking off their goggles. Although it doesn't handle more complex feats, the RC Motion 3 controller is perfect for safe, beginner-friendly flying. DJI also provides a twin-stick controller for manual control and more complex maneuvers for pilots with greater experience.

All things considered, with its steady 4K/60fps footage and simple controls, the Avata 2 is ideal for FPV rookies. It is sturdy for learning because it is made to survive small collisions. With its longer flight time and easy-to-use features, it's a great choice for beginner FPV pilots, even though it might not be a need for original Avata owners.

image by Engadget

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly with easy controls.
• Stable 4K/60fps footage.
• Durable and agile.
• 23-minute flight time.

Cons:

• Limited to basic FPV maneuvers.
• Shorter flight time than larger drones.
• Not ideal for expert FPV pilots.

9. Ryze Tello

A beginner-friendly drone created in partnership with DJI is the Ryze Tello. It is a great choice for those who are new to the drone sport because it is inexpensive, lightweight and simple to use. With a fully charged battery, the drone can fly for about 13 minutes and has a 5MP camera that records 720p HD video. The Tello has a restricted control range of about 30 to 40 meters, with a maximum height of roughly 10 meters. It is responsive in calm conditions, but it struggles in windy conditions.

The Tello app offers entertaining flight modes like 360-degree spins and 8D flips in addition to basic controls like automatic takeoff and landing. Its video quality is poor, though, with stuttering and apparent compression when streaming. The Tello is a decent option for short indoor flights or for people wishing to learn the fundamentals of drone operating, despite its shortcomings.

Although the battery lasts a fair amount of time, extended flying times require the use of extra batteries, which are available in Boost Combo packages. Despite being a fantastic value for the money, the Tello is not suitable for filming high-quality videos or flying outside in windy situations.

image by T3

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Cheap and lightweight.
• Easy to fly for beginners.
• 5MP camera with 720p video.
• Safe to fly in most areas.

Cons:

• Limited range (30-40m).
• Short flight time (13 minutes).
• Basic video quality.
• Lacks advanced safety features.

Conclusion

Whether you’re just getting started or you’re a seasoned drone pilot, there’s a model on this list that can meet your needs. With DJI leading the way in quality and performance, most of the drones here are built to capture impressive images and smooth videos. For those who prioritize high-quality visuals, the top options will be the best fit. Meanwhile, beginners might find the more affordable choices perfect for learning the basics without compromising too much on features. At Techgency, I hope this guide helps you pick the right drone to bring your creative vision to life.