Hi Guys, I'm considering getting started in this as a hobby, I have absolutely no knowledge of how to fly, which machine would be best for me or features other than some units come with cameras. I would like to purchase something with a camera in or around the $ 150.00 range. My first question: Which "brand" would be suitable for a complete novice such as myself ? Second: Can you view on the controller thru the camera as you're flying? If not how do you tell what you're filming or looking at? Third: I've read that most batteries only have about 10 minutes life, is this correct and if so how can I extend battery life to enjoy more flying time? I appreciate any and all info. Thanks in advance
My advice is usually to NOT buy a unit with a camera in it as your first quad. You will be way too busy flying it and crashing it to take decent pictures - and anything in the lower price range won't take decent pics anyway! I did a REALLY short article on getting started - and it's here: https://www.droneflyers.com/2014/10/want-buy-drone-advice-buy-drone/ The Hubsan Quads is a great machine to learn on and you can continue to use it (good travel quad) after you get better. They have camera models, but I do not recommend them...either for beginners or later! I'd say if you insist on having a camera on your first quad just for fun - try one of these models - http://www.amazon.com/U818A-2-4GHz-Axis-Quadcopter-Camera/dp/B00D3IN11Q/ or http://www.amazon.com/Syma-Channel-2-4GHz-Explorers-Copter/dp/B00KI03U8Q/ Both of those are larger than the Hubsan Quads and are best outdoors - the Hubsan Quads can be used indoors or out. Extension of flight time is done by buying more batteries. These little machines need a break for the motors and other parts to cool down, so leave 2 minutes or so in between flights. No, you cannot see what you are taking pics of until you step up in price and capability. My advice is to learn first and then decide which way to step up. If photos and videos are what you most want to do, a Phantom FC40 is a great quad to consider after you learn the ropes. Hope that helps.
