Did you know there are around 1.6 million drones registered in the US alone?
There’s no denying the boom in drone popularity. They’re soaring in the skies over cities, beaches, and events across the world. It’s no surprise – we’re a species that loves to record our lives, and drones make that easier than ever.
If you’re looking to buy a drone, finding one that can be controlled by your phone is an option we’d recommend. It makes for simple, versatile filming and an easy-to-use device.
Take a look at our top picks of phone controlled drones to find the right option for you.
1. DJI Mavic Mini
Released last year, the DJI Mavic Mini was an instant hit amongst drone fanatics everywhere. In a folding, compact model and sleek design, it’s every tech-lover’s dream. If you like to film on the go, this little drone could be the option for you.
It’s smaller but still functions a lot like the larger Mavic devices, although the features are simpler and there’s a reduction in specifications. It offers 2.4k video, a flight time of 30 minutes, and a range of 2.5 miles.
As smartphone controlled drones go, this one weighs in under 0.55lbs, meaning you don’t need to register it with the FAA before you fly.
Mavic is known for their quality built, high-performance drones, and you can find plenty over on DrDrone.ca. If you’re looking for a drone with a phone app, all Mavic series drones have one.
2. DJI Mavic 2 Pro
Larger than the Mavic Mini but also compactible, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro is a drone that packs a punch – but for a price. It’s definitely at the higher end of the budget but if you’re looking for a drone that’s really going to impress, this one’s well worth the money.
With 4K video at 100Mbps, the Hasselblad camera gives astounding quality footage. In fact, these cameras are world-renowned, so you know you’ll be getting the best. You can also capture 20-megapixel whilst you fly.
It works better in lower light than other models, has a range of 4.3 miles, and a flight time of 31 minutes. If you’re looking for a drone controlled by a phone that’s easy to use, the multi-direction obstacle avoidance feature makes this an obvious choice. Aside from the price, we can’t really fault this one.
3. DJI Mavic 2 Zoom
The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is essentially the same as the Mavic 2 Pro. It has the same flight time, range, and obstacle avoidance sensors. It’s even compatible like the Pro.
But there is one big difference – the camera. As the name suggests, this drone is designed for getting up close with up to 4X zoom and 2X optical zoom. Like the pro, it shoots 4k video at 100Mbps.
For cinematic shots, this phone controlled drone compresses perspectives for a parallax effect. It’s designed for epic film, so read up on cinematic film tips before you take it out. It also has an accurate, quick focus whilst in-flight and is Super Resolution for detailed shots.
Both the Mavic 2 Pro and Zoom have the patented 3-Axis gimbal tech for smoother, more stable filming.
4. DJI Mavic Air
Can you tell we love DJI Mavic drones? If you have an iPhone or an Android, drones by Mavic can usually be controlled by your phone, which is why so many are making our list.
The Mavic Air was the first-ever drone to include a 48MP camera, which is very impressive. It also captures at a data rate of 100Mbps and you won’t be let down by the footage you record.
The two slight drawbacks are the 21 minute flight time, which isn’t as good as others on the market, and a range of 2 miles which is also less. But if it suits your shooting methods, then there’s nothing to shy away from with this drone.
5. Skydio R1 and R2
Moving away from the Mavic drones, every drone-lover will know the Skydio R1. It innovated the drone game in terms of obstacle avoidance and ‘follow-me’ shooting, offering features that were unbeatable.
The drone does have its drawbacks – a flight time of 15 minutes and a range of just 300 ft, for example – but it’s great for action shots or family footage.
The Skydio R2 is the newer version released at the end of last year. Incredible AI tech and 6 cameras to avoid obstacles makes it the easiest machine to fly, and its advanced sensors make the follow-me feature great.
The camera is standard, shooting 4k video at 60fps. The flight time is slightly better at 23 minutes and the range is vastly improved at 2.17 miles.
6. Parrot Anafi
Cheaper than others on our list, the Parrot Anafi is a great model that’s (sort of) budget-friendly without losing quality. It has a great articulating gimbal for stable, movable video capture. The camera itself is 4K and 21MP, with a lightweight, folding design.
The Anafi also has great specifications, with a flight time of 25 minutes and a range of 2.5 miles. For its price point, this is a high-performance drone that any serious drone-flyer would be happy to work with.
Ready for a Phone Controlled Drone?
We love phone controlled drones. The option to fly them through your smartphone makes it easy to capture great footage and if you’re not happy with the drone’s own remote, it can be a great alternative. If you’re thinking of buying one, we can highly recommend any of the options we’ve listed.
For more tech tips and news, be sure to check out more of our articles!