Have you ever watched a drone soar high above, wishing you could capture amazing aerial photos without spending a fortune? Drones offer a whole new way to see the world. But when you look for a drone under $100, the choices can feel overwhelming. You want something fun to fly, but you worry about poor quality or batteries that die too fast.
Finding a great, affordable drone is tough. Many cheap models break easily or don’t fly straight. You do not want to waste your hard-earned money on a toy that crashes on its first flight. This guide cuts through the confusion. We tested the best budget-friendly drones so you do not have to.
By reading on, you will discover the top three drones that offer the best features for under $100. We will show you which ones are durable, easy to fly, and worth your money. Get ready to pick the perfect drone that fits your budget and your dreams of flying high!
Top Drone For Around 100 Recommendations
- Smart GPS with Auto Return: Designed for pilots of all skill levels, this FPV drone offers precise positioning for smarter operation. Key functions include One-key Return, low-power auto return, GPS lock, and compass calibration. Easily execute creative shots like Rocket, Helix, Follow, and Circle Fly, enabling reliable performance in various environments
- 4K Camera with 90° Adjustment: Equipped with a 4K and 90° adjustable lens, this camera drone captures 2K@30fps video and 3840×2160 photos. Its Level 4 wind resistance and powerful brushless motors ensure smooth footage even in windy conditions. Perfect for travel, gatherings, and more
- 5.7-Inch LCD Display: This ZY90 PRO drone features a 5.7-inch LCD display remote controller , providing instant FPV live feed without the need for a smartphone app. It supports long-range transmission of up to 6,500 feet, offering an immersive flying experience with real-time photo/video preview. An ideal choice for both creators and beginners
- 100-Minute Extended Flight: Powered by 2 7.6V 3800mAh visible-power batteries, this drone delivers up to 100 minutes of total flight time. Supports USB-C fast charging for added convenience and uninterrupted fun. *Please ensure the drone is fully charged to 100% before each flight. Dedicated customer support is available for any inquiries
- Built-in Composition Guides: Utilize a suite of on-screen visual guides to achieve professional shots effortlessly. Choose from Diagonal Lines for dynamic angles, a Center Dot for precise symmetry, or a 3x3 Grid to master the rule of thirds. These tools empower both beginners and pros to compose stunning imagery with every flight
- Easy to Fly & Fun for Kids: Features one-key takeoff/landing, altitude hold, and 3 speed modes (low/medium/high) for beginners and advanced flyers.
- Full-function remote controller: Allows for precise control of ascent/descent, forward/backward, left/right turn, and even side-flying (left/right). Three flight speeds are available to suit both beginners and experienced players. In headless mode, you don't need to worry about directional recognition.
- 360° rotation and cool LED lights: Perform cool aerial acrobatics, achieve 360° rotation, and control colored LED lights for nighttime flight. Brings you stunning lighting effects and a vivid flight experience.
- Safe and Long-lasting: The mini drone is made of quality tough materials that can take varying degrees of collision. 4 propeller guards gave the drone double protection. The kids can fly/charge/take care of themselves on their own.
- Great Gifts for Kids:The kids: boys & girls, will love this safe and easy mini drone. They can enjoy the daytime with friends, dogs, cats, etc.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Steve Cole (Director) - Smithsonian Channel (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Stewart McPherson (Actor)
- Stewart McPherson (Director) - Stewart McPherson (Producer)
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Dimitri Demushkin, Denis Kapustin, Maksim Martsinkevich (Actors)
- Greg Verweyen (Director) - Nina Marlene Giese (Writer) - N-TV (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Robbie Lyle (Actor)
- Iain Thompson (Director) - Alex Mucadum (Writer) - Vanessa Van-Yeboah (Producer)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
- 【Super Fast Charging】Our 100W Battery Charger for DJI features 2 USB-C ports, which supports PD/QC/PPS protocols.With high-quality upgrades and tens of thousands of experiments, the 100W charger for dji ensures stable power output during the charging process, allowing for continuous and uninterrupted charging.
- 【2-in-1 Design】With a design featuring 2 ports, a single USB-C port supports 100W blind insertion, allowing you to charge 2 devices at once. Having 1 charger is like having 2 chargers in one. The 100W fast charger's plug is foldable, making it more portable and easy to store.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Our 100W USB-C Power Adapter is compatible with a range of DJI products, including the DJI Mini 5 Pro, Mini 4 Pro, Mini 3 Pro, Mini 3, Mini 4K, Mini 2 SE, Mini 2, Mini SE, Mavic Mini, Air 3, Air 3S, Mavic 3 Pro, Mavic 3 Cine, Mavic 3 Classic, Mavic 3, Mavic 3 Enterprise Series, Mavic 4 Pro, Avata/Avata 2, Neo/Neo 2, Flip, Goggles 2 Battery, DJI/LKTOP Mini 5/4/3 Series Charging Hub, DJI/LKTOP Air 3 Series Charging Hub, DJI Mavic 3 Series Charging Hub, DJI/LKTOP Avata 2 Charging Hub, DJI/LKTOP Neo Charging Hub, DJI Flip Charging Hub, DJI Remote Controller, DJI Action Camera and other USB-C port devices.
- 【Safe & Portable】The 100W USB-C Charger for DJI features intelligent temperature control, preventing overheating during charging. As supporting 100V-240V, the Fast Charger complies with global input standards and is airplane-safe, perfect for traveling around the world.
- 【Package & Service】You will get 100W USB-C Power Adapter for DJI/Potensic/Holy Stone/Skyrover*1, 100W USB-C to USB-C Cable*1. We offer a worry-free 1-year warranty and provide friendly customer service.
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Hillsong Worship (Actor)
- Qello Concerts (Director) - Benjamin Hastings (Writer) - Michael Guy Chislett (Producer)
- (Playback Language)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Drone Under $100
Drones are super fun to fly! You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get started. Drones under $100 are great for beginners. This guide will help you pick the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a cheap drone, some features matter a lot. These features make flying easier and more fun.
Flight Time and Battery Life
- Battery Life: Look for drones that fly for at least 8 to 10 minutes. Shorter flights mean you land too soon.
- Extra Batteries: Some bundles include an extra battery. This is a huge plus! You can fly longer by swapping batteries.
Camera Quality (If You Want Photos/Videos)
Drones in this price range usually have basic cameras. Don’t expect Hollywood quality.
- Resolution: Look for 720p (HD) if possible. Some might only offer lower quality.
- FPV (First Person View): This lets you see what the drone sees on your phone. This feature makes flying much cooler.
Durability and Protection
Beginners often crash. Strong parts save your drone from breaking.
- Propeller Guards: These plastic rings surround the blades. They protect the propellers and anything you might bump into. Make sure they are included.
Important Materials and Build Quality
What a drone is made of affects how well it lasts.
Body Material
- Plastic: Most budget drones use lightweight plastic. This is good because it keeps the drone light and cheap.
- Flexibility: A slightly flexible plastic bends when it crashes. Rigid plastic might snap. Look for plastic that can bend a little.
Motors
The motors spin the propellers.
- Brushed Motors: Most drones under $100 use these. They work fine for learning. They wear out faster than more expensive motors.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some technology makes flying better, while cutting costs can make it worse.
Features That Improve Flying
- Altitude Hold: This feature keeps the drone at the same height automatically. It makes hovering much easier for new pilots.
- Headless Mode: This feature fixes the controls. You don’t need to worry about which way the drone is facing.
- Easy Takeoff/Landing: A single button press to go up or down is very helpful.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Poor Wind Resistance: Cheap drones struggle in even a slight breeze. You will fight the wind a lot.
- Slow Response Time: If the controls feel laggy, the drone might feel hard to steer accurately.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who is this drone for, and what can you do with it?
Beginner Friendly
Drones around $100 are perfect for learning the basics. You practice flying forward, backward, and turning without worrying about expensive damage.
Indoor Fun
Because they are small and light, many budget drones fly well indoors. They are less likely to cause damage inside your house.
Outdoor Play
Use these outside on calm, sunny days. They are great for seeing how drones handle open space. Do not fly them near trees or water.
Top 10 FAQs for Drones Under $100
Q: Is a license needed to fly a drone under $100?
A: Usually, no. Most drones in this price range weigh less than 0.55 pounds (250 grams). Check the drone’s weight, but most small toys do not require registration or a license in the US.
Q: How high can these cheap drones fly?
A: They typically fly up to 50 to 100 feet high. Strong winds can push them higher or force them down quickly.
Q: Do I need a smartphone to fly it?
A: Not always. Many come with a dedicated controller. If you want FPV video, you will need a smartphone to connect to the drone’s Wi-Fi.
Q: Are replacement parts easy to find?
A: For very cheap models, replacement parts might be hard to find. It is often cheaper to buy a whole new drone if you break a major part.
Q: What is the difference between brushed and brushless motors?
A: Brushed motors are cheaper and simpler. Brushless motors are stronger and last much longer, but they are usually found on more expensive drones.
Q: Can I fly this drone at night?
A: Some models have small LED lights. These lights help you see the drone in dimmer light, but flying at night is generally not recommended for beginners.
Q: How long does the battery usually take to charge?
A: Charging time is often 60 to 90 minutes for a single battery pack.
Q: Will this drone connect to my home Wi-Fi?
A: No, it creates its own small Wi-Fi network just for the video feed to your phone. It does not use your home internet.
Q: What is the best way to protect my drone when it crashes?
A: Always practice flying in a wide-open area first. If you see it wobble or drift, land it immediately before it crashes hard.
Q: Are these drones good for learning photography?
A: They offer a taste of aerial photography. They help you learn framing and angles, but the picture quality will be low.