I intend to shoot video of vineyards both from above and flying down aisles of vines. Here are my requirements: 1. It works without a lot of finagling/tweaking/fixing/programming. 2. Takes video at at least 1080p (will consider 4k but might be too expensive) 3. Video is smooth (gimbals or otherwise stabilized) 4. Auto return-to-home if signal is lost 5. Preferably under $1000 Which drones should I be considering? Thanks.
Probably the Phantom 3 Advanced is the best overall for your money..... The Yuneec Q500+ would do the job also. Realistically, there are not a lot of models out there - amazingly enough. DJI has about 70-80% of the market leaving a few others to fight over the other 20% - that is, when we are talking about stabilized video at about 1K. Did you read our review? https://www.droneflyers.com/2015/05/dji-phantom-3-quadcopter-first-look-review-and-rating/
Thanks for that awesome review! One paragraph really hit home with me: NOTE: The Phantom 3 is a highly technical aircraft and requires study and skills to fly safely and to keep it in one piece. Despite the marketing materials, a quadcopter is not “for everyone”. Beginning pilots should invest time learning the hobby before putting an expensive model such as the P3 into the air. Since I have never flown one, perhaps I should start with something more basic, that still records 1080p?
If you've never flown one - in general - you want to start with a toy or two. Or, if you want to go right to a Phantom so you get some idea, get the $299 deal on the Phantom 1 at B&H photo. If you don't lose it you will be able to resell it for almost the same price later. Don't worry about the pics or video because they will just confuse you and distract you from actually learning to fly. But you can, after a few flights, hook various cams to the Phantom 1. Lots of them at Banggood - these should be USA ship. http://us.Banggood.com/Wholesale-Warehouse-RC-Quadcopters-c-Usa-1848.html%20?p=YD2619189125201305JG Syma X5C is popular - so are many of the others
Thanks. I just ordered a Syma X5C and a DFD 181-c. I will work up to a fancy one in 6 months or so. Thanks for your help.
