Gone are the days when you had to have a budget of over $1000 to get your hands on the perfect drone for those remarkable aerial shots. With a little research, you can find drones with long-lasting battery life, remarkably clear lenses of up to 2 megapixels and about 12 minutes of flight time.
It is also important for you to check on your budget so that you can get your hands on some of the very best drones that no only fit your budget but also serve your purpose. You also have to consider the maximum flight time which your drone can achieve.
Some people might want drones for easier transportation of light items while others need them for amateur or selfie video shooting. There are also individuals who love flying drones because of the thrill that comes with doing so. Another important aspect that you need to consider is the functionality as well as the features of the drone. These will determine the kind of drone that will work for you.
Without further ado, here are some of the top rated drones under $100 as of 2019:
The Best Drone under $100 - Pricing Table
Drones | Name | Flight Time | Camera | Flight Range | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6-10 min | 720P 1.0MP FPV | 262 ft | 1.8 lbs | |
| 6-8 min | no camera | 262 ft. | 3 lbs | |
| JXD 509W | 6 min | 0.3 MP | 164 ft | 1.7 lbs |
| 6-8 min | 0.2 MP | 984 feet | 2.8 lbs | |
| 10-12 min | Go Pro Compatible | 262 feet | 2.6 lbs |
HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT DRONE
Flight Time
You'll want to know how much flight capacity your drone has so you know how much shooting time you have once its in the air. This can range a lot between drones so make sure to check it out.
Camera
Most of the drones on this list feature 2.0 MB video, make a note of the drones that do not or don't come with a camera at all and pair that with your budget and the ultimate photo/video quality that you need.
Flight Range
Can you drone shoot those dramatic sweeping shots? Since the drones on this list are "selfie" drones, most have a pretty short range but there are a few drones on the list with more!
Speed
The maximum speed of your drone matters if you are going to be using it to follow you while driving a car for example. Most selfie drones have a lower maximum speed capacity.
Controller
Is the drone controlled by a controller or by your smartphone? Controllers are generally a bit easier to use although most selfie drones are controlled by the phone!
Weight
The weight of your drone matters not only because of its portability but the heavier your drone is, the more battery and machine power will be required to keep it in the air.
THE BEST DRONE UNDER $100
6-10 min flight time
1.8 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
720P 1.0MP FPV
Range: 262 feet
Controller Operated
Apart from its efficiency and pocket-friendly prices, the other obvious reason as to why you would want to acquire the SYMA X5UW drone is because of its stealth and grand design. The futuristic propellers and the spherical body give it the appearance of an alien ship when floating around the air. The latter fills the whole experience with an incredible adrenaline rush.
Being one of the newest drones around, you can rest assured that it comes with a lot of super cool upgrades.One can gain access to all of that for under a hundred bucks. The most popular advanced features associated with the new SYMA X5UW quad-copter include the improved FVP, altitude hold and mobile app control which can convert your cell phone into a controller. Apart from its exoskeleton being stealth and futuristic, it is also known for being tough.
The latter explains why it can survive falls, thus in case of accidents, it can save you a lot of money. The SYMA X5UW 3.7V 500mAh battery is so incredible that it can sustain about 6-10 minutes of flight time and with an impressive 80-meters range. It is also a multipurpose quad-copter which allows for both indoor and outdoor flying hence can be used for some breathtaking, picturesque shots. The SYMA X5UW is also suggested for beginners since it comes with prop guards as well as the landing gear that can be removed once their flying skills have improved.
Doing so will make the drone lighter and thus easy to control and maneuver while acquiring better shots. SYMA X5UW Drone has its carrying case that is designed to fit and ensure convenience while carrying around which is so impressive. The aluminum rim design provides maximum protection even after an impact which is always an advantage. The stylish black interior is blacked out and fluffed with a pre-cut inner form for perfect fitting.
6-8 min flight time
3 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
No Camera
Range: 262 feet
Controller Operated
The HUBSAN X4 has been voted as the best, most sought after drone of 2017 because of several reasons. The small quad-copter has a small aerodynamic body that carries the camera and each of its four corners, fitted with a propeller which extends all the way to the ground as a patch that ensures a smooth landing. It is arguably the best, inexpensive quad-copter. It has a robust 3.7V 380mAh battery that can sustain a 6-8-minute flight.
It takes close to half an hour to charge. The HUBSAN X4 can fly within 50-100-meter range. This feature will allow for remarkably amazing aerial shots. The camera has a 2-megapixel quality, and it is un-mountable. This property makes it perfect for indoor aerial shots because it is easier to control it where the wind isn’t blowing too hard.
The battery, just like the camera, is inbuilt thus no need for acquiring an extra one especially when charging happens very fast. The front of the drone, which bears the camera, has its propellers painted red which makes it easy to know the position without second guessing or straining. The LED on each of the propellers also serves the same purposes as the painted propellers so you can never confuse what side the camera is.
Finally, the HUBSAN X4 comes with 4.3” screen on the transmitter that will allow for you to have a much better view while flying hence resulting in much better views. The HUBSAN X4 Drone comes with its first HUBSAN X4 carrying case. The latter comes in four models including the H107L, H107C, and H108 Spyder models all depending on your drone model. The carrying drone ensures maximum protection from water as both the material plus the zippers is waterproof. You can also fit quite some things in there including a drone, hub wrench, an extra propeller, charger, transmitter and other small components.
6 min flight time
1.7 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
HD 0.3MP
Range: 164 feet
Controller Operated
Another top rated quad-copter of 2017 is none other than the surreptitious, military grade-looking JXD 509W drone. Apart from being very easy to control, this quad-copter is known for being flexible with its propellers having the ability to bend up to a 90-degree angle. This feature makes it difficult to sustain irreparable damages in the event of a crash which in turn saves you money and the headache of buying a new drone.
To ensure that the flexibility isn’t just the case with the propellers, the JXD 509W drone has a body made out of ABS plastic which also provides no bending or breaking when hit or during an impact. You can have unlimited uses for this drone since it is the Wi-Fi enabled version of the 509G quad-copter, which we all know is very popular among drone lovers worldwide for its performance.
Other key features that you ought to look out for in the JXD 509W drone include a one-key home return, automatic landing, altitude holder as well as a headless mode. These features are just way too many for a quad-copter that is less than $100, no wonder it makes it to this list.
The JXD 509W drone also boasts of an excellent controlling range as well as high-quality FPV which makes flying it such an amazing feeling. All of the JXD 509W drone specifications, as you have seen, are competitive and it would be a lovely idea to consider purchasing it.JXD 509W Drone can be comfortably carried by the large, waterproof handbag backpack.
The amazing space always ensures that you can take it without any problems and at the same time keep the contents protected at all times. It is affordable and very easy to purchase as many dealers have it in stock.
6-8 min flight time
2.8 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
HD 2.0MP
Range: 984 feet
Controller Operated
The very impressive JJRC H26W drone is one of the low-cost drones that will impress you with the design, its features as well as its daunting performance. This impressive, easy to fly drone has amazingly stable landing gear that will always ensure safety even after the roughest of landings. Since the JJRC Company has been on the forefront of innovating drone technology, it’s safe to say that this version of their quad-copter will most certainly fill your flying days with excitement.
First of all, the JJRC H26W drone has an amazing 2-megapixel camera that is retrofitted to an adjustable, 2-axis gimbal that allows movement in four directions, hence the wide variety of angles altogether.The JJRC H26W drone can also have the real-time video (or the FPV) transmitted via Wi-Fi all the way to your device, making it easy to have a much better view of your angles with no problems at all. Thankfully, the application both works in android and apple smartphones which are presently the most popular smartphones in the world. The one-key return feature will automatically return the active JJRC H26W drone back to the pilot without them having to work too hard.
The latter feature can be useful especially when the battery is low, and the drone needs to be landed safely. The other very impressive feature about this drone is the remarkable 300-meter range which can allow much better aerial photos and footages. Lastly, the headless mode feature will allow for a much easier orientation.JJRC H26W Drone can fit perfectly well in a Bangcool Blade Inductrix Case with Foam Liner. This drone carrying case has dual zippers which ensure extra security on your drone and accessories. For maximum protection during an unexpected fall, while carrying, this carrying case comes with an inner foam liner. A netted compartment in the carrying case ensures room for other small accessories.
10-12 min flight time
2.6 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
GoPro Compatible
Range: 262 feet
Controller Operated
It is no coincidence that the remarkably amazing Tarantula X16 quad-copter was one of the bestselling drones of 2015. It has an exceptionally creative design, light weight, and plausible flight stability. The Tarantula X16 can also be retrofitted with a GoPro camera which has a better quality (because of higher megapixels). It is also simple and can be assembled with so much ease. The latter explains why many people prefer it to other kinds of drones.
The Tarantula X16 has a 7.4V 1200mAh battery which tells its longer flight time (10-12 minutes) as compared to the other drones within the same price range. As far as the flight range is concerned, this affordable drone can manage a radius of about 80-100 meters which is quite impressive.
And since it can carry an entire GoPro, then you can capture breathtaking, high-quality shots from up above using your newly acquired Tarantula X16 drone. Apart from being aerodynamic, the vast wingspan of each propeller combines with a long-lasting battery to give the drone enough power to lift any action camera.
The latter is what makes it suitable for shooting both quality area footages as well as photos.Tarantula X16 has replaceable RC motors which make it cheaper to replace as opposed to purchasing a brand new drone when the motor burns out or malfunctions. As long as you have the user manual, you can go ahead and do the replacement on your own without the help of a technician, which adds to its affordability.
Your TARANTULA X6 Drone will be safe in a multi-purpose, waterproof handbag backpack. Because of its affordability, durability and waterproof properties, the handbag backpack for drones is one of the most popular bags for carrying drones and any other related accessories for an outdoor flight.
8-10 min flight time
1.6 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
No Camera
Range: 492 feet
Controller Operated
Apart from being waterproof, the JJRC H31 Drone is also popular for its lightweight, long-lasting battery life that can fly it well over 150-meters radius. The excellent, aerodynamic design will ensure that this impressive drone provides stability needed to shoot picturesque footages. The flying performance (which is a result of the balance) is also another reason as to why you might need to check this drone out.
The JJRC H31 Drone is also splendid especially for starters who still need a few more flying lessons because it is simple and very durable. The small size will also allow it to fly indoors without any problems hence it is perfect for practicing primarily for beginners.
The beautiful landing gear and the prop guards always ensure that the JJRC H31 Drone always has a safe landing hence assuring a smooth landing at all times. The body is also made of durable, waterproof material that makes it survive most crashes including those in water. The latter feature makes it suitable for the breathtaking, over the water shots that other drone owners wouldn’t dare risk.
The battery retrofitted in the amazing JJRC H31 Drone only allows it to have an 8-minute flight time, but you can still make the most of it by taking amazing, breathtaking shots thanks to its stability and camera quality. The fact that it doesn’t have too many features makes it charming on its own as this renders the JJRC H31 Drone suitable for beginners.
JJRC H31 Drone can be perfectly kept and carried around in the all-important handbag backpack. The bag is specifically designed for drone carrying, and the fact that it is affordable makes it appropriate for everyone. Another important property that makes the handbag backpack suitable for the storage of this drone is the fact that it is waterproof.
6 min flight time
N/A
Max Speed: N/A
3.0 MP
Range: 262 feet
Controller Operated
Apart from being pleasing to the eye, the JXD 509V Drone is popular among drone lovers all over the world for the incredible features that make it stand out. The first outstanding feature is the one-key pilot return that will automatically bring the drone to you on autopilot. The latter is important since it minimizes any chances of destructive crashes that you wouldn’t want to incur as all these can be managed by the press of a button.
The JXD 509V Drone has the altitude holder which is very instrumental in focusing on a particular shot, and this feature allows the drone to maintain height on its own. The VGA module camera can tilt to about 30-degrees angle, allowing one to capture the same shot from different POVs (point of view). The VGA module camera is known for its decent image quality, and many users love it.
For an easier orientation which is critical in a drone, the headless mode does the trick in this incredibly designed JXD 509V Drone. Even with the fight control stretching only to about 80 meters, the JXD 509V Drone will still get you magical shots from different angles and POVs which makes up for the short power distance.The JXD 509V Drone also comes with the perfect 3.7V 600mAh battery which will ensure a solid 10-minute of flight time. You can use this scintillating, very affordable drone for both aerial photographies as well as aerial footages because it has all the features you need. And the fact that it’s affordable makes it very convenient for everyone!!
The handbag backpack can be used for the efficient carrying of JXD 509V Drone. The backpack is waterproof, which means that your drone will be perfectly protected from rain and water. In addition to that, the capacity is sufficient enough to carry the drone, transmitter and any other equipment you are planning on taking outdoors with you.
10-12 min flight time
1.5 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
2.0 MP
Range: 656 feet
Controller Operated
Being manufactured by Syma, a renowned drone company that has made previous, hugely successful drones, the new SYMA X8C Drone goes a long way to prove that they aren’t done impressing yet. The remarkably efficient beautifully finished SYMA X8C Drone comes with the camera and battery preinstalled. It's big propellers ensure balance and stability even in high, windy altitudes. This amazing drone has been known to manage up to 12 minutes of flight time.
The large, long-lasting 2S 2000mAh battery can power the drone’s brushed motors to give an impressive performance. Another incredible advantage of this sort of drone is that it has the control distance of about 200 meters which results in better control.The SYMA X8C Drone has a preinstalled camera that is packed with 2MP lenses that will give you good quality photos and footages from up above or any other angle you desire. The camera can be removed and another higher quality camera put in its place.
The drone’s exoskeleton l is also very tight, and that ensures minimum damage in the event of a crash.Some of the substitute cameras that the impressive SYMA X8C Drone can comfortably fly include the 808 cameras or the Mobius camera – all depending on what you prefer. Apart from its impressive aerodynamic design, the SYMA X8C Drone is very stable. The latter affords it a lot of advantages which include steady and clear shots due to limited to no distortion at all.
The perfect SYMA X8C Drone carrying case is the HUL Aluminum Carrying Case. First of all, this particular carrying case comes complete with aluminum frame retrofitted with plastic panels for maximum protection of the drone and transmitter. There is also precut foam that is inserted to ensure that the drone and every other content get to fit quite perfectly.
6-8 min flight time
1.9 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
3.0 MP
Range: 328 feet
Controller Operated
The other coolest, low-cost quad-copter in the market is none other than the very impressive MJX X400 Drone. The first thing that will capture your attention is the First Person View or the FPV coupled with the Real Time Transmission feature. With the use of an application, the Wi-Fi enabled FPV C4005 0.3 MP cameras will give you the best view via your iOS or Android smartphone, making it a tad easier to get the shots that you fancy.
Fitted with a durable 3.7V 750mAh battery, the MJX X400 Drone will still manage 8 minutes of flight time which will allow you to get as many excellent shots. And the good news is that the recording and transmitting will be done simultaneously. The latter is why the MJX X400 Drone is an absolute steal, especially for this particular price range. This drone is incredible especially for taking amateur shots for practice because it is easy to control and is very stable.
It is no wonder beginners who want to have the best practice are always advised to start off with the MJX X400 Drone. Since the transmission happens directly to your phone, it is a lot easier to control it and determine just how you are going to maneuver and get the best shots. It is so easy to master the controls of the MJX X400 Drone, and so once you have purchased it, you can almost always immediately enjoy your experience.
The Blomiky X8W-V3 Aluminum Travel Box Carrying Hard Case is most suitable for the storage of MJX X400 Drone for some reasons. The heavy duty aluminum case ensures minimum to no damage in the event of a fall. The high-density foam in the interior will also protect the drone and transmitter from an impact. The carrying case also has lockable latches for security purposes.
5-6 min flight time
3.4 pounds
Max Speed: N/A
2.0 MP
Range: 262 feet
Controller Operated
Being an upgrade of the very popular X5C drone from Syma, the SYMA X5C1 Drone comes with a design and features that make it an absolute best. This incredible stealth and the stable budget drone has four, 7x20mm motors which aid in the generation of enough power to transport cameras as well as lightweight objects (when the camera has been removed).
Apart from being a multipurpose drone, the SYMA X5C1 Drone had a good 3.7V 500mAh battery and coupled with its design; the drone can be entirely used for both indoor and outdoor flights. The flight time is about 5 minutes but when the 2MP camera is un-mounted, the flight time will be increased by a minute.
The prop guard also makes the SYMA X5C1 Drone perfectly safe for flying indoors especially by amateurs. But once one has the skills to operate it, the prop guards can be easily removed, and that goes to the camera and landing gear which will make it much lighter.
When the SYMA X5C1 Drone becomes much lighter, the mobility will be much easier and at the same time, the flight time will increase. The SYMA X5C1 Drone is affordable and very easy to control which is why many of the beginners are usually advised to go for it. It is much simpler to learn how to fly, and the flying itself can be so fantastic and enjoyable.
SYMA X5C1 Drone most suitable carrying case is the SYMA X5C1 Quadcopter Drone Blue bundle carrying case. Apart from being affordable, this carrying case is durable and waterproof. The carrying case has been specially designed for the drone hence ensures it’s well fitted and well-protected at all times.
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