The FPV Drone Showdown: According to Youtubers?

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In the ever-evolving world of FPV drones, 2024 has proven to be a year packed with exciting options. Brodie Reed gathered insights from six prominent FPV drone YouTubers to find out which drone they flew the most this past year. Their feedback offers a comprehensive look at the current FPV landscape, revealing what features and capabilities stand out.

Stu's Top Pick: Lightning V2 from YMZ FPV

Stu from UAV Futures kicked things off with his favourite, the Lightning V2. He emphasised how much fun this drone is to fly, claiming that it keeps him engaged even when he’s not filming. Here’s what he had to say:

  • Performance: The Lightning V2 delivers a thrilling experience akin to a five-inch drone, yet it’s easier to handle.
  • Affordability: Cheaper batteries mean lower costs in the long run.
  • Lightweight: This drone is easy to transport and less intimidating for new pilots.

Chris Rosser's Choice: AOS 3.5 V5

Next up is Chris Rosser, an engineer and FPV enthusiast, who shared his preference for the AOS 3.5 V5. This drone aims to maximise flight performance while staying under the 250g limit:

  • Compact and Lightweight: It’s smaller and quieter than typical five-inch drones.
  • Performance: Offers flight experience similar to larger drones without the weight restrictions.
  • Versatile: Chris is working on a naked GoPro mod for this frame, enhancing its filming capabilities.

Evan Turner's Pick: The Little Flipper

Owner of Five Three Three, Evan Turner, introduced us to his go-to drone, the Little Flipper. This three-and-a-half-inch platform also fits within the 250g limit:

  • Freestyle and Cinematic: Perfect for evening cruising and capturing stunning footage.
  • Durability: It’s small and robust, making it ideal for various flying conditions.
  • Versatility: A great balance between speed and stability.

Ian's Dual Choice: Era and Lowflow

Ian from Mads Tech shared his excitement over the new frames released this year, particularly the Era from Its FPV and the Lowflow from Mike X:

  • Compact Design: Both frames are low deck height, making them easy to handle.
  • Durability: Features like nylon front ends enhance resilience against crashes.
  • Performance: Designed for cinematic FPV, they can carry action cameras effectively.

Brodie's Go-To: Avata 2

Surprisingly, Brodie revealed that his most used FPV drone of the year is the Avata 2. He praised it for its ease of use, especially for capturing cinematic footage:

  • User-Friendly: Simple setup, making it ideal for beginners.
  • Built-in Camera: Comes with an Osmo Action Force camera, eliminating the need for additional mounts.
  • Cinematic Quality: Perfect for those who enjoy showcasing unique perspectives.

Danny McGee's Choice: Helion

FPV pilot Danny McGee highlighted the Helion, a massive drone designed for long-range flying:

  • Long Flight Times: Capable of nearly 20 minutes per charge with lithium-ion batteries.
  • Exceptional Range: Can fly up to 8 kilometres, making it great for expansive landscapes.
  • Handling: Despite its size, it handles well in the air.

Jacuzzi Jay's Fun Pick: Luma Freestyle Quad

Wrapping up the list, Jacuzzi Jay brought a touch of humour to his choice with the Luma Freestyle Quad, declaring it the best because it simply is:

  • It is the best
  • He only flys the best

Final Thoughts

With such a diverse range of FPV drones highlighted in this discussion, it’s evident that personal preference plays a huge role in choosing the right one. Each drone brings unique features that cater to different flying styles and needs. For beginners, Brodie suggests checking out his comprehensive guide on the best FPV drone bundles to find the perfect fit.

FAQ

  • What is an FPV drone? An FPV (First Person View) drone allows pilots to fly using a camera feed transmitted to goggles or a screen, providing an immersive flying experience.
  • Which FPV drone is best for beginners? The Avata 2 is highly recommended for beginners due to its user-friendly design and built-in camera.
  • How do I choose the right FPV drone? Consider your flying style, the type of footage you want to capture, and your experience level when selecting an FPV drone.

For more insights and detailed reviews, check out the individual YouTube channels of the featured pilots. Happy flying!