2023 • The Best Consumer Drone Brands of the Year

1. Ever looked up and thought a UFO was spying on you, only to realize it’s just Mr. Johnson’s new drone capturing his cat’s rooftop escapades?
2. Welcome to the 21st century! Drones are everywhere, from filming epic mountain getaways to, well, chasing cats. As we navigate this brave new world of airborne peeping Toms, let’s rank the brands.
3. Buckle up (or should I say, prop up?) as we delve into the top 15 drone makers – with hopefully fewer cat videos and more epic cinematic shots!

1. DJI: The Sky’s the Limit

When it comes to the world of drones, DJI is often the first name to flutter into the minds of enthusiasts and professionals alike. Hailing from the tech-savvy landscapes of Shenzhen, China, DJI is the heavyweight champion of the drone world. Their Mavic series, with its sleek design and foldable arms, has revolutionized on-the-go aerial photography.

But it doesn’t stop there. With the Phantom’s iconic design, DJI has catered to those who crave stability and precision. And for the pros? The Inspire series lifts cinematic dreams from the storyboard to the skies. The company’s products are known for their high quality, innovation, and performance. DJI has also been praised for its commitment to safety, and its drones have been involved in relatively few accidents.

In recent years, DJI has expanded its product line to include other types of UAVs, such as hand-held gimbals and stabilizers. Whether you’re capturing the shimmering hues of a sunset or filming dramatic vistas in 4K, DJI ensures every shot is nothing short of spectacular.

2. Parrot: Soaring Beyond Boundaries

Straight from the heart of France, Parrot gives wings to innovation. This brand has passionately painted the skies with its creative offerings, proving that there’s always a place for elegant European design in the drone industry. 

The Anafi series, for instance, is not just a drone; it’s a statement. Boasting 4K HDR video and a unique 180° tilt gimbal, Parrot offers bird’s eye views that previously only birds could boast of. And the best part? With its compact design, you can always have your Anafi ready, from spontaneous city trips to wild mountain hikes.

Parrot drones are a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals. The company is constantly researching and releasing new products, so it is always worth checking out their latest offerings.

3. Skydio: The Art of Intelligent Flight

In the world of drones, avoiding obstacles is crucial. But with Skydio, it’s elevated to an art form. Hailing from Silicon Valley, the heartland of tech innovation, Skydio weaves the magic of AI into their drones.

The company’s proprietary software uses a combination of sensors and cameras to create a 360-degree map of the drone’s surroundings. This allows the drone to fly safely and autonomously in even complex environments.

Their flagship, Skydio 2, isn’t just another drone; it’s a glimpse into the future. With a mind of its own, it dances around obstacles, ensuring your cinematic vision remains uninterrupted. Every curve, every swoop, every aerial maneuver is backed by cutting-edge technology, offering an experience that feels less like flying a drone and more like orchestrating an aerial ballet.

4. Autel Robotics: The Maverick Mavens

Standing toe-to-toe with industry giants, Autel Robotics is the underdog story we all love. Their EVO series might remind you of another popular drone at first glance, but dive a bit deeper, and you’ll discover a brand that’s fervently carving its niche.

With a keen focus on quality, Autel’s drones deliver vibrant 8K video and boast an impressive 40-minute flight time. What’s even more enticing is their intuitive user interface, ensuring that from rookies to pros, every pilot feels right at home. 

Autel Robotics drones are a popular choice for businesses and individuals who are looking for a high-quality and reliable drone. The company’s products are known for their advanced features, competitive prices, and excellent customer support. Autel reminds us that there’s always room at the top, especially if you’re flying high with ambition.

5. Yuneec: Electrifying the Skies

Steering clear of the beaten path, Yuneec brings a fresh gust of innovation to the drone market. Born from a passion for electric flight, Yuneec’s offerings are a testament to both engineering prowess and artistic nuance. 

Their Typhoon series, draped in a sleek and futuristic design, isn’t just about capturing imagery—it’s about seizing moments. Then there’s the Mantis Q, an ode to compact versatility, showcasing that sometimes, the most profound experiences come in the smallest packages. 

Yuneec is a well-established company with a wide range of products. Whether you’re an adventurer capturing the vastness of the Grand Canyon or a filmmaker chasing the perfect shot, Yuneec ensures your ambitions remain unbound.

6. Hubsan: Flying Fun for Everyone

Hubsan is the poster child for proving that great things often come in small, affordable packages. Championing the cause for hobbyists and beginners, Hubsan drones make the joy of flight accessible to all. 

Their range is vibrant, playful, and robust, serving as the perfect entry ticket for those looking to dip their toes in the drone realm. And it’s not just about fun; with features like HD cameras and intuitive controls, Hubsan ensures that every flight feels like a grand adventure, regardless of the pilot’s experience level. 

With Hubsan, every backyard becomes an exploration ground, and every sunset, a masterpiece waiting to be captured.

7. PowerVision: Redefining Perspectives

PowerVision isn’t just a brand—it’s a bold statement that challenges the very boundaries of what drones can achieve. The PowerEgg, with its revolutionary ovoid design, isn’t merely an aesthetic marvel; it promises and delivers unparalleled stability and versatility. 

But PowerVision doesn’t just rule the skies. With their PowerDolphin, they’ve dived deep into aquatic realms, proving that drones can conquer waters just as gracefully. 

Every PowerVision creation pushes the envelope, urging users to see the world from exhilarating new angles, be it from high above or beneath shimmering waves.

8. Walkera: Speed, Thrills, and Beyond

For adrenaline junkies, the mere act of flight might not suffice. They crave the rush, the speed, the thrill—and that’s precisely where Walkera swoops in. 

Renowned for their racing quads, Walkera crafts drones that blur landscapes and defy physics. But it’s not all about velocity; their line-up also boasts drones perfect for professional videography, seamlessly blending exhilaration with elegance. 

With Walkera, every launch is a race, every flight a spectacle, and every landing a testament to unmatched craftsmanship.

9. Ruko Drones: From Dreams to Dynamic Flight

Amidst the symphony of buzzing propellers, Ruko emerges as a melodious note that resonates with both novices and drone aficionados alike. Heralding a fresh approach to aerial adventures, Ruko drones masterfully combine user-friendliness with formidable flight capabilities. 

Their arsenal, while being generous on features, doesn’t skimp on aesthetics. With designs that echo the thrill of the skies and capabilities that promise cinematic excellence, every Ruko drone feels like a trusted companion on a skyward journey. 

Whether it’s capturing a serene sunset or exploring the undulating contours of a mountain range, with Ruko, you’re not just flying; you’re crafting stories suspended in the air.

10. Ryze Tech: When Playfulness Meets the Sky

In the dynamic panorama of drone innovation, Ryze Tech flutters in with a refreshing gust of youthful exuberance. Collaborating with industry giants like DJI and Intel, this brand has birthed the iconic Tello series—a line that’s more than just drones; it’s an ode to fun-filled flying. 

Every Ryze Tech creation effortlessly bridges the gap between learning and leisure. While they may seem playful and compact, these drones pack in a punch, bringing top-tier technology to eager hands of all ages. 

With Ryze Tech, every lift-off is a lesson, every flip a celebration, and every landing an eager anticipation of the next airborne escapade.

11. Holy Stone: The Gateway to the Skies

Venturing into the vast world of drones can be daunting for the uninitiated, but Holy Stone makes it feel like a breezy summer adventure. Catering especially to newcomers, their drones encapsulate both excitement and ease. 

Every Holy Stone drone is a ticket to a new world of possibilities, crafted meticulously to balance performance and affordability. 

With features that belie their price tags and designs that echo the thrill of flight, these drones are more than just gadgets—they’re invitations to explore, discover, and fall in love with the skies.

12. Syma: The Sky’s Playground Beckons

In the realm of drone enthusiasts, the name ‘Syma’ strikes a chord of nostalgia and delight. Known for their range of affordable yet robust quadcopters, Syma has become synonymous with the joy of first flights.

Every drone they craft feels like an open invitation to the skies – accessible, user-friendly, and brimming with playful energy. Their models, often tailored for beginners, encapsulate the sheer thrill of a bird’s eye view without overwhelming complexities. 

With vibrant designs and intuitive controls, Syma ensures that every aerial adventure is a memory in the making. In the dance of drones against the azure, Syma shines as the guiding star for every fledgling pilot.

13. Eachine: Pocket-sized Pioneers in the Vast Aerial Frontier

In the ever-expanding cosmos of drone brands, Eachine jets into focus with its innovative designs and pocket-friendly prices. It’s not just about flying with Eachine; it’s about breaking boundaries without breaking the bank. 

Their drones, often compact and brimming with features, promise a seamless fusion of portability and performance. Renowned for their FPV racers and mini quadcopters, Eachine manages to make the thrill of high-speed chases and aerial acrobatics accessible to all. 

Whether you’re a seasoned racer looking for that adrenaline rush or a newbie yearning for your first taste of the skies, Eachine ensures your journey is nothing short of exhilarating.

14. JJRC: Precision from Above

Within the bustling orchestra of drone brands, JJRC strikes a distinctive tune, harmonizing innovation with affordability. With a repertoire that spans from pint-sized explorers to robust aerial performers, JJRC crafts each drone as an ode to the boundless spirit of the skies. 

Their models cater to both the curious novices, taking their tentative first flights, and to seasoned pilots executing intricate aerial ballets. Whether it’s the allure of night-time LED displays or the thrill of capturing panoramic vistas, JJRC weaves the wonder of flight into every spin and spiral. 

For those ready to chase the horizon, JJRC stands as a beacon, illuminating the path to airborne mastery.

15. Potensic: Crafting Horizons and Beyond

Navigating the vast expanse of the drone industry, Potensic emerges as a brand where innovation soars and dreams take flight. Renowned for their synthesis of cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, Potensic drones are like the trusted co-pilots of every aerial adventure. 

From their precise GPS systems to immersive FPV experiences, they’ve engineered devices that resonate with both budding hobbyists and seasoned flight enthusiasts. With every model released, Potensic reaffirms its commitment to quality, ensuring that your journey through the clouds is as breathtaking as the destinations you’ll discover. 

In the ever-evolving story of man, machine, and sky, Potensic pens chapters of wonder, exploration, and endless possibility.

Did You Know?

While most consumer drones can fly for about 20-30 minutes on a charge, there are solar-powered drones in development that can potentially remain airborne for weeks or even months!