Best Cheap Drones Suitable for Kids and Teens
Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have rapidly gained popularity among kids and teenagers for their ability to fly, capture breathtaking aerial footage, and offer an interactive experience. With a myriad of options available, choosing the right model that combines affordability, safety, and ease of use can be challenging. This article presents a detailed exploration of the best cheap drones suitable for kids and teens, ensuring an engaging and hassle-free flying experience.
1. Holy Stone HS210 Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $40
Key Features:
- Camera: 720p HD camera
- Flight Time: 10 minutes
- Range: 30 meters
- Durability: Soft propeller guards
The Holy Stone HS210 is a compact and lightweight drone ideal for young pilots. Its durable design is complemented by protective propeller guards, making it less prone to damage. With a 720p HD camera, kids can kickstart their photography skills while the one-button takeoff/landing feature simplifies operations.
Pros:
- Simple controls for beginners
- Good battery performance for the price
- Equipped with three speed modes
Cons:
- Limited flight range
2. Potensic A20 Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $50
Key Features:
- Camera: No camera
- Flight Time: 8-10 minutes
- Range: 50 meters
- Special Features: Altitude hold, one-key takeoff/landing
The Potensic A20 is perfect for those just starting their drone journey. It features altitude hold functionality, which allows the drone to maintain a steady height, making it easier for kids to learn flying techniques. Its simple controls and robust design make it an excellent choice for beginners.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Sturdy build to withstand minor crashes
- Portable design
Cons:
- Lack of a camera limits aerial photography
3. SnapTain SP350 Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $40
Key Features:
- Camera: 720p HD camera
- Flight Time: 8-10 minutes
- Range: 60 meters
- Special Functionality: Gesture control
The SnapTain SP350 stands out with its gesture control feature, allowing kids to operate the drone with simple hand movements. The equipped 720p HD camera is a great introduction to aerial photography and videography, inspiring creativity among young pilots.
Pros:
- Excellent for kids interested in photography
- Easy to transport and store
- Multiple speed settings
Cons:
- Limited battery life
4. Eachine E010 Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $30
Key Features:
- Camera: No camera
- Flight Time: 5-8 minutes
- Range: 30 meters
- Special Features: 360° flips
The Eachine E010 is an incredibly budget-friendly choice packed with fun features. Though it lacks a camera, its ability to perform 360° flips adds excitement to the flying experience. This drone is especially fun for outdoor play, making it appealing for kids and teenagers alike.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and easy to fly
- Engaging stunts for entertainment
Cons:
- Shorter flight time
5. Holy Stone HS210 Mini Quad
Price: Approximately $50
Key Features:
- Camera: No camera
- Flight Time: 10 minutes
- Range: 30 meters
- Control Type: Remote control
The Holy Stone HS210 is another great entry-level quadcopter for kids. Its impressive battery life and flight features like headless mode and one-key return enhance the flying experience. Built to last, this drone withstands beginner mishaps well.
Pros:
- Easy to fly, perfect for beginners
- Multiple speed settings enhance adaptability
- Safe and durable design
Cons:
- Limited range constraints outdoor usage
6. DEERC D20 Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $50
Key Features:
- Camera: 720p HD camera
- Flight Time: 8-10 minutes
- Range: 30 meters
- Special Features: Altitude hold
With an appealing price and solid features, the DEERC D20 is another excellent choice. Its altitude hold function helps maintain height stability, aiding young pilots in their learning process. The 720p camera captures decent-quality images for budding photographers.
Pros:
- User-friendly for beginners
- Altitude hold for stable flights
- Fun LED lights for outdoor flying
Cons:
- Limited control range
7. SIMREX X300C Drone
Price: Approximately $60
Key Features:
- Camera: 720p HD camera
- Flight Time: 8-10 minutes
- Range: 50 meters
- Special Features: Headless mode
The SIMREX X300C features a sleek design, with a 720p camera that captures high-quality images. The headless mode makes it easier to fly, ensuring that kids can maintain control even in challenging flying conditions.
Pros:
- Stylish design
- Headless mode simplifies navigation
- Good performance for the price range
Cons:
- May require practice to get accustomed
8. ATTOP Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $40
Key Features:
- Camera: No camera
- Flight Time: 10 minutes
- Range: 30 meters
- Special Features: Voice control
The ATTOP Mini Drone features a fun voice control feature, which adds an element of novelty to flying. This drone is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a perfect option for younger kids looking for an introductory experience.
Pros:
- Fun and innovative voice control feature
- Simple to use
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Limited features compared to others
9. Snaptain SP350 Mini Drone
Price: Approximately $40
Key Features:
- Camera: 720p HD camera
- Flight Time: 9-10 minutes
- Range: 50 meters
- Special Features: 3D flips
The Snaptain SP350 is another affordable option featuring a camera and exciting flight styles, including 3D flips. This model is ideal for handling indoor spaces and parks, making it perfect for kids and hobbyists.
Pros:
- Affordable with many features
- Easy for beginners to learn
- Compact design
Cons:
- Requires practice for optimal control
10. Eachine E58 Drone
Price: Approximately $70
Key Features:
- Camera: 1080p HD camera
- Flight Time: 10-12 minutes
- Range: 100 meters
- Special Features: Foldable design
The Eachine E58 stands out with its foldable design and impressive 1080p camera, perfect for older teens interested in photography. Despite being a while more expensive than the other models, the build quality justifies the price, offering a balanced mix of features.
Pros:
- High-definition camera
- Foldable for easy transport
- Good flight performance
Cons:
- Slightly higher price for kids but offers more features
Selecting the Best Budget Drone
When choosing a drone for kids and teens, consider factors such as safety features, battery life, ease of use, and whether a camera is essential. Each model listed excels in specific areas, ensuring that young users can enjoy their flying experience without significant risk or complexity.
Safety Considerations for Younger Pilots
Incorporate a few safety rules when allowing kids to fly drones:
- Supervision: Always supervise young children while flying.
- Outdoor Space: Fly drones in wide open spaces to avoid accidents.
- Pre-Flight Check: Regularly check drones for damage before each flight.
- Educate: Teach kids about local regulations regarding drone use.
By providing the right tools and supervision, young pilots can experience the joy of flying while also maintaining safety and responsibility. Enjoyable and educational, these drones are a great start to a lifelong hobby.