Drones that are designed for indoor flight have become increasingly popular in recent years. Flying drones inside offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning aerial footage and photos in a controlled environment. In 2024, there are several excellent indoor drone options available with advanced features like auto-follow modes, gesture controls, and collision avoidance. In this article, we will compare some of the top indoor drones on the market based on factors like price, camera quality, flight time, and ease of use.
In this article I will recommend this drones for you:
1、DJI Mini 3 Pro
2、Skydio 2+
3、Autel Evo Nano+
4、Potensic Elfin 2K
5、Hubsan Zino Mini Pro
6、HolyStone HS720E
7、Snaptain SP710
In this article, X Drone Shop will delve deeper into the topic of:（7 Best Indoor Drones Compared in 2024）
Let’s started now！
What is Indoor Drones？
Indoor drones are small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed specifically for flying inside buildings and structures. Unlike outdoor drones, indoor drones are compact and lightweight, usually weighing less than 250g. They have enclosed propeller blades for added safety. Indoor drones are equipped with advanced sensors and collision avoidance technology to stabilize flight and prevent crashes in confined spaces. Built-in cameras provide high-quality aerial imaging and video recording indoors. Their nimble size allows them to maneuver through narrow spaces like hallways, between furniture, and even small openings. With flight times around 10-30 minutes, indoor drones allow photographers, videographers, and hobbyists to capture unique perspectives in the comfort of indoor environments. With appropriate safety precautions, indoor drones open new creative possibilities for commercial, recreational, and educational use.
What are the main features of Indoor Drones？
- Compact size and lightweight build – This allows indoor drones to navigate tight spaces. Under 250g helps comply with regulations.
- Enclosed propellers or propeller guards – Improves safety when flying close to people and objects. Prevents injuries from exposed spinning blades.
- Advanced flight stabilization and collision avoidance – Built-in sensors and processing help the drone maintain steady flight indoors and detect/avoid obstacles.
- Foldable design – Allows the drone to be packed up into a portable size for transport and storage.
- High-quality camera and gimbal – Many indoor drones come equipped with 4K video, slo-mo capabilities, and integrated stabilization for smooth footage.
- Intelligent flight modes – Some indoor drones have subject tracking, auto-follow, orbit and other AI-enabled flight modes for autonomous filming.
What should you pay attention to when buying a Indoor Drones?
- Flight time – Maximum flight durations range from 10-30 mins for indoor drones. Look for longer times if needed.
- Control range – Indoor drones have shorter control distances but need adequate range for your space.
- Obstacle avoidance – The more advanced the sensors, the better a drone can avoid crashes in confined areas.
- Price – Indoor drones range from $100 to $1000+ depending on features, camera quality, brand, etc. Set a budget.
- Ease of use – Many indoor drones are very user-friendly, even for beginners. But some have steeper learning curves.
- Safety features – Prop guards, low weight, integrated sensors, and auto-land functions improve indoor flight safety.
7 Best Indoor Drones Compared in 2024
| Drone Model | Camera Resolution | Flight Time | Obstacle Avoidance | Price | Recommendation Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DJI Mini 3 Pro | 4K/60fps | 34 mins | Forward, Backward, Up, Down | $759 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Skydio 2+ | 4K/60fps | 35 mins | 360° Vision Tracking | $1,099 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Autel Evo Nano+ | 4K/30fps | 40 mins | Forward, Backward, Up, Down | $949 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Potensic Elfin 2K | 2K | 20 mins | Forward, Backward, Up, Down | $129 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Hubsan Zino Mini Pro | 4K/30fps | 23 mins | Forward, Backward | $349 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| HolyStone HS720E | 4K/30fps | 26 mins | Forward, Backward, Up, Down | $299 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Snaptain SP710 | 1080p | 16 mins | Basic | $90 | ⭐⭐ |
1、DJI Mini 3 Pro
The DJI Mini 3 Pro was released in 2022 as an upgraded version of DJI’s popular ultra-lightweight drone series. Weighing less than 249 grams, the Mini 3 Pro combines a compact, foldable design with enhanced camera features and transmission tech. It’s ideal for travel photographers and social media creators.
Pros:
- Ultralight 249g body
- Up to 4K/60fps video and 48MP photos
- 34 minutes maximum flight time
- 90° gimbal tilt for unique perspectives
- Built-in obstacle avoidance sensors
- 10km HD video transmission range
- Intelligent shooting modes and tracking
- Under $1000 price point
Cons:
- Small 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor limits low-light performance
- Digital zoom only up to 2x magnification
- Not capable of shooting RAW photos
- Low wind resistance due to light weight
- Control range less than other DJI drones
- Battery not removable/replaceable during flight
In summary, the Mini 3 Pro hits a sweet spot between weight, portability, and imaging capabilities. It brings pro-level shooting modes to a 249g drone. But the smaller sensor leaves room for improvement in image quality and zoom. Overall, it’s an excellent flying camera for travel and social media creators.
2、Skydio 2+
The Skydio 2+ is Skydio’s updated version of their AI-powered, autonomous consumer drone released in 2021. Equipped with 6 4K cameras for navigation, the Skydio 2+ can intelligently fly itself while avoiding obstacles. It captures smooth 4K video and 12MP photos with its main camera.
Pros:
- Autonomous flight modes allow hands-free video capture
- Advanced obstacle avoidance using 6 directional cameras
- Long 35 minute flight time
- Foldable, portable design with travel case
- User-friendly mobile app control
- Excellent image stabilization on 3-axis gimbal
Cons:
- High price of $1099
- Image quality isn’t as good as higher end drones
- Top speed of only 36 mph
- No compatibility with third-party goggles or controllers
- Can’t handle high winds very well due to light weight
In summary, the Skydio 2+ is ideal for users wanting great autonomous flight capabilities in a portable package. It’s on the pricey side for consumers but offers some unique intelligent flight modes and impressive obstacle avoidance for worry-free flying and filming.
3、Autel Evo Nano+
The Autel Nano + is a compact consumer drone focused on portability and ease of use. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with a stabilized 4K camera, 3-axis gimbal, and impressive 30 minutes of flight time. Intelligent flight modes like orbit, waypoint, and panorama help capture professional-level aerial photos and video. The Nano Plus is a great option for travel-friendly aerial photography.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and lightweight airframe design
- Up to 4K/30fps video and 12MP photos
- 3-axis stabilization gimbal for smooth footage
- Advanced computer vision positioning
- Intuitive mobile app interface
- Under 250g for flexible regulations
Cons:
- Not as fast or agile as racing drones
- Lower video resolution than some competitors
- Advanced flying takes practice
- Smaller 1/2.3” CMOS sensor
- Occasional firmware issues
- No hyperlapse or 360 panorama modes
4、Potensic Elfin 2K
The Potensic Elfin 2K is one of the best value indoor drones currently available. This compact quadcopter packs impressive performance and features into an affordable package making it a great option for beginner and intermediate pilots.
Pros:
- 2K camera provides high-quality video and still images
- Foldable and lightweight design for easy portability
- Advanced stabilization technology provides smooth and steady flight
- Obstacle avoidance sensors in multiple directions help prevent crashes
- Gesture controls allow you to take selfies just with hand movements
- 20 minutes of flight time per battery
Cons:
- Lacks more advanced autonomous flight modes and subject tracking
- Shorter control range compared to more expensive drones
- No adjustable aperture camera settings
- Sensitive to moderate winds if flown outdoors
- No companion app with extensive features or flight data
Overall, the Potensic Elfin 2K punches above its weight class providing an impressive mix of video quality, safety features, and easy operability making it one of the top budget-friendly indoor drones currently available. Just keep its limitations in mind and it can be a great entry-level model for indoor aerial photography and videography.
5、Hubsan Zino Mini Pro
The Hubsan Zino Mini Pro is a compact drone designed for portable aerial photography and videography. Released in 2021, the Zino Mini Pro folds down to a compact size while still integrating a 4K camera on a 3-axis gimbal, 33 minutes of flight time, and a 10km transmission range.
Pros:
- Lightweight and foldable design for easy portability
- Long 10km control range
- 33 minutes of flight time per battery
- Advanced 4K camera stabilized on a 3-axis gimbal
- Intelligent flight modes like orbit and waypoint control
- Obstacle avoidance sensors
Cons:
- Lacks omnidirectional obstacle sensing of higher end drones
- 4K camera may lack image quality of larger sensors
- Top speed is just 44 mph
- No interchangeable lenses like some prosumer models
- Overall build quality isn’t as robust as premium drones
In summary, the Hubsan Zino Mini Pro hits a sweet spot between portability and performance, making it a great traveling drone for aerial photography and videography on the go. Just expect some compromises compared to more expensive professional drones.
6、HolyStone HS720E
The Holy Stone HS720E is a foldable drone with a 4K camera and several intelligent flight modes. Here are some pros and cons:
Pros:
- Foldable and portable design makes it easy to transport.
- Features a 4K camera capable of recording sharp, stable video footage.
- Intelligent flight modes like Follow Me, Orbit, and Waypoints allow for creative shots.
- Long flight time of 22 minutes from the 3500mAh battery.
- Obstacle avoidance sensors in front help prevent collisions.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features like tracking or object avoidance.
- Controller range is only about 1000 feet, less than some competitors.
- Camera quality is decent but may lack detail in low light conditions.
- Does not come with any storage so you need to supply your own micro SD card.
In summary, the HS720E is a solid mid-range drone with good 4K video capabilities in a portable folding design. While it lacks some of the features of premium drones, it provides good value given its sub-$300 price point. The intelligent flight modes make capturing complex shots easy. Overall it’s a good option for hobbyist drone users looking for their first 4K camera drone.
7、Snaptain SP710
The Snaptain SP710 offers an affordable way to get started capturing aerial photos and video with its integrated 1080p HD camera. This foldable drone features a 110° wide-angle lens capable of shooting at 60 frames per second. Built-in image stabilization keeps the footage steady when in flight. While the camera resolution is capped at 1080p, it provides good quality video and 16MP photos. The SP710 folds down for easy transport and comes with smart modes like Follow Me and one-key return. Battery life is a bit short at just 16 minutes, but overall the SP710 is a budget-friendly foldable aimed at beginners looking to experiment with HD aerial filming.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable price point
- Easy to transport when folded
- 1080p/60fps video and 16MP photos
- Image stabilization for smooth footage
- Intelligent flight modes for easy filming
- Fun to learn with for beginner pilots
Cons:
- Max resolution limited to 1080p HD
- Short 16 minute flight time
- Lacks obstacle avoidance sensors
- Some build quality issues
- WiFi transmission range could be better
- Struggles with wind resistance
- No onboard storage for media
Final words about Best Indoor Drones Compared in 2024
After reviewing some of the best indoor drones that will be available in 2024, it’s clear there are great options at various price points. The DJI Mini 3 Pro offers incredible camera specs like 4K/60fps video in a portable, foldable form. For those looking for longer flight times, the Autel Evo Nano+ is a top choice with 40 minutes of airtime. The Skydio 2+ brings leading-edge computer vision and autonomous flight modes for effortless indoor filming. And the Potensic Elfin 2K packs impressive features into an affordable package. Whichever model you choose, indoor drones allow you to capture unique aerial shots and expand your creative possibilities. Just be sure to always fly responsibly by staying aware of your surroundings and not disturbing others.
Know more about the Indoor Drones, please check the following video out:
FAQs about Best Indoor Drones Compared in 2024
What are the benefits of flying drones indoors?
- Indoor drones allow you to capture stunning aerial shots and video footage within the confined spaces of buildings, houses, warehouses, etc. This opens up creative possibilities that would not be possible with outdoor drones or ground-based cameras.
- You can fly indoor drones regardless of weather conditions outside since you are in a controlled environment unaffected by wind, rain, etc.
- Indoor flight eliminates concerns about losing drone signal range or wandering out of visual line-of-sight that can happen with outdoor flight.
What safety precautions should I take when flying an indoor drone?
- Always maintain a visual line-of-sight with the drone.
- Enable obstacle avoidance and collision detection sensors if available.
- Start by flying in large open spaces before flying in tighter spaces.
- Avoid flying near people, animals, fragile items or other dangerous obstructions.
- Inform others in the building that you will be flying a drone indoors.
Are there any legal regulations on flying indoor drones?
- In most countries, indoor drones under 250g are not required to be registered. But always check local laws.
- Privacy laws may restrict filming or photographing certain indoor areas and people without consent.
What is the average flight time for indoor drones?
- Most indoor drones provide 10-30 minutes of flight time per battery charge. Flight time depends on model, speed, payload, and use of video transmission.
How much does a good quality indoor drone cost?
- Consumer indoor drones range from $50 to $1000+ depending on size, camera resolution, sensors, brand and other capabilities. Expect to spend $250 to $800 for a feature-rich high-end model.
What features should I look for in an indoor drone?
- Compact size, foldable design, enclosed propellers for safety, built-in 4K or 1080p video camera, advanced flight stabilization and collision avoidance sensors, intelligent flight modes, and 10-30 minutes of flight time per charge.
