As technology advances, camera drones are becoming more accessible and affordable for beginners. Whether you're looking to capture stunning aerial photos, videos, or simply enjoy the thrill of flying, there are plenty of beginner-friendly options in 2024. In this article, we’ll explore the top-rated beginner camera drones for 2024, helping you find the perfect drone to kickstart your aerial adventures. 

1. DJI Mini 3

Overview: The DJI Mini 3 is a compact and lightweight drone that packs a punch. It’s an excellent choice for beginners due to its user-friendly features and high-quality camera.

Key Features:

• Camera: 4K HDR video, 12MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 38 minutes
• Range: Up to 10 km
• Weight: 249 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: The Mini 3 offers an intuitive control system and numerous automated flight modes, such as QuickShots and ActiveTrack. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and transport, while its advanced safety features, like obstacle avoidance and GPS tracking, ensure a smooth flying experience.

2. Ryze Tello

Overview: The Ryze Tello is a fantastic entry-level drone that combines affordability with decent performance. It's ideal for those just starting out in the world of drones.

Key Features:

• Camera: 720p HD video, 5MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 13 minutes
• Range: Up to 100 meters
• Weight: 80 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: The Tello is incredibly easy to fly, thanks to its simple controls and stable flight performance. It also includes educational coding features, making it a great choice for kids or anyone interested in learning more about drone technology.

3. Holy Stone HS720E

Overview: The Holy Stone HS720E is a popular choice among beginners due to its combination of features, performance, and price.

Key Features:

• Camera: 4K UHD video, 8MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 26 minutes
• Range: Up to 1 km
• Weight: 310 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: With its GPS-assisted flight and follow-me mode, the HS720E offers a user-friendly experience for new pilots. Its altitude hold function helps stabilize the drone, making it easier to capture smooth and clear footage.

4. Potensic T18

Overview: The Potensic T18 is an affordable drone that offers a great mix of features for beginners looking to experiment with aerial photography.

Key Features:

• Camera: 1080p HD video, 2MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 10 minutes
• Range: Up to 300 meters
• Weight: 150 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: The T18 is easy to set up and fly, with features like one-key takeoff/landing and headless mode. Its GPS function ensures stable flight and accurate positioning, while the return-to-home feature adds an extra layer of safety.

5. Eachine E520S

Overview: The Eachine E520S provides a solid entry point into the world of camera drones, offering a mix of features that are ideal for beginners.

Key Features:

• Camera: 4K HD video, 8MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 16 minutes
• Range: Up to 300 meters
• Weight: 300 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: This drone offers GPS positioning, altitude hold, and multiple flight modes, which are perfect for beginners. The 4K camera captures high-quality images and videos, making it a great choice for those looking to explore aerial photography.

6. Hubsan H501S X4

Overview: The Hubsan H501S X4 is known for its robust build and excellent performance, making it a top choice for those new to drone flying.

Key Features:

• Camera: 1080p HD video, 5MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 20 minutes
• Range: Up to 300 meters
• Weight: 270 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: Equipped with GPS and follow-me mode, the H501S X4 ensures an easy flying experience. Its return-to-home function and built-in drone's compass provide added safety and ease of use.

7. Deerc D20

Overview: The Deerc D20 is a budget-friendly drone that still offers impressive features for beginner pilots.

Key Features:

• Camera: 720p HD video, 2MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 8 minutes
• Range: Up to 100 meters
• Weight: 100 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: With features like one-key takeoff/landing and altitude hold, the D20 is easy to control. Its compact size makes it perfect for indoor flying, and it’s a great option for those looking to learn the basics of drone operation.

8. Snaptain SP510

Overview: The Snaptain SP510 is a versatile drone that balances affordability with advanced features suitable for beginners.

Key Features:

• Camera: 4K UHD video, 12MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 16 minutes
• Range: Up to 500 meters
• Weight: 250 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: The SP510 features GPS-assisted flight, altitude hold, and multiple intelligent flight modes, making it easy for beginners to capture high-quality footage. Its compact design also makes it easy to transport.

9. JJRC X6 Air Drone

Overview: The JJRC X6 Air Drone offers an excellent combination of performance and value, ideal for those just starting with camera drones.

Key Features:

• Camera: 1080p HD video, 5MP stills
• Flight Time: Up to 18 minutes
• Range: Up to 300 meters
• Weight: 300 grams

Why It’s Great for Beginners: With features like GPS positioning and a user-friendly remote control, the JJRC X6 Air Drone is easy to fly. Its follow-me mode and return-to-home function add convenience and safety for new pilots.

Camera Drones for 2024 

Choosing the right beginner camera drone can significantly impact your flying experience. The drones listed above offer a range of features and price points to suit different needs and budgets. From the compact DJI Mini 3 to the affordable Ryze Tello, there’s something for everyone in 2024. As you embark on your drone journey, remember to follow local regulations and practice safe flying to ensure a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Explore a variety of drones at our online drone store.

Happy Flying!