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Drones have transformed from niche gadgets into mainstream tools for photography, videography, and recreation and you might want to get involved but are wondering, what’s the best drone to buy for me right now?
Today, we’re exploring three options from beginner to expert, starting with the SIMREX X800 for beginners, the DJI Mini 2 for hobbyist and the Holy Stone HS175D for experts.
Whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast, this comparison will help you find the best drone to buy to fit your needs.
What is the best drone to buy for a beginner?
SIMREX X800 Drone with 1080P Camera

The SIMREX X800 is a compact, affordable drone designed for beginners and casual users.
Pros
- Affordable Price
Ideal for those entering the world of drones, the SIMREX X800 offers a wallet-friendly option without compromising basic functionality. - Portability
The foldable design makes it easy to carry and store, perfect for on-the-go use. - User-Friendly Features
Altitude hold, one-key takeoff/landing, and headless mode simplify operation, making it accessible even for first-time users. - Stable Hovering
Thanks to its altitude hold function, it maintains stability for better photo and video quality.
Cons
- Limited Camera Quality
While the 1080P camera suffices for casual use, it lacks the sharpness and detail of higher-end drones. - Short Flight Time
The 12-minute battery life is limiting, requiring spare batteries for extended sessions. - Basic Range
The operational range is suitable for beginners but may feel restrictive for those seeking exploration capabilities.
Who It’s For
The SIMREX X800 is best for entry-level users who want a simple and budget-friendly way to explore drone flying.
DJI Mini 2

The DJI Mini 2 stands out as one of the best compact drones, offering advanced features and exceptional camera quality.
Pros
- High-Resolution Camera
The 4K video recording capability with 12MP photos ensures stunning clarity and detail. - Extended Flight Time
With a battery life of up to 31 minutes, the Mini 2 allows for longer, uninterrupted flights. - Compact and Lightweight
Weighing under 249 grams, it’s easy to carry and doesn’t require registration in many countries. - GPS and Intelligent Features
Features like GPS positioning, return-to-home, and QuickShot modes provide a seamless flying experience. - Stable Performance
The Mini 2 performs well even in moderate winds, maintaining steady flight and camera stabilisation.
Cons
- Higher Cost
The DJI Mini 2 comes at a premium price, which might deter budget-conscious buyers. - No Obstacle Avoidance
Despite its advanced features, the absence of obstacle detection requires careful manual navigation. - Limited Internal Storage
No onboard storage, requiring an external SD card for capturing media.
Who It’s For
Ideal for intermediate users and content creators who value portability, camera quality, and extended flight time.
Holy Stone HS175D Foldable Drone with 4K Camera

The Holy Stone HS175D offers an excellent balance of advanced features and affordability, making it a strong competitor in the mid-range drone market.
Pros
- 4K Camera
Delivers crisp photos and videos, surpassing the SIMREX X800 and comparable to higher-end drones. - Foldable Design
Portable and lightweight, it’s easy to transport and store. - Dual GPS and Intelligent Flight Modes
Features like GPS return-to-home, follow-me mode, and waypoint flying enhance user control and convenience. - Decent Flight Time
Provides up to 23 minutes per battery, which is reasonable for its price range. - Brushless Motors
These ensure quieter operation, better power efficiency, and longer lifespan compared to brushed motors.
Cons
- Learning Curve for Beginners
While it’s beginner-friendly, the abundance of features may overwhelm first-time users. - Average Build Quality
Although functional, it’s not as robust as the DJI Mini 2, especially in challenging conditions. - Shorter Range
Its operational range, while sufficient for most recreational users, falls short of the DJI Mini 2.
Who It’s For
Perfect for hobbyists and intermediate users looking for a feature-packed drone with excellent camera quality at a reasonable price.
Best drone to buy for your needs
Feature | SIMREX X800 | DJI Mini 2 | Holy Stone HS175D |
---|---|---|---|
Price | £90–£120 | £350–£400 | £150–£200 |
Camera Quality | 1080P | 4K | 4K |
Flight Time | 12 minutes | 31 minutes | 23 minutes |
Portability | Foldable, lightweight | Compact, lightweight | Foldable, lightweight |
GPS Features | No | Yes | Yes |
Stability | Basic (altitude hold) | Advanced (GPS, windproof) | Moderate (GPS) |
Range | ~80 meters | ~10 km | ~300 meters |
What is the best drone to buy for my needs?
Each of these drones serves a different purpose:
- SIMREX X800: Best for beginners who want an affordable, straightforward drone to learn the basics of flying and recording.
- DJI Mini 2: A premium option for those who prioritise camera quality, long flight times, and portability for professional-grade content creation.
- Holy Stone HS175D: Strikes a balance between affordability and features, ideal for hobbyists seeking better camera quality and intelligent flight modes without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the best drone to buy for you depends on your experience level, budget, and the features you value most in a drone. If you’re starting out the SIMREX is a great option. For professionals or passionate drone pilots the DJ Mini has major appeal while the Holy Stone model features is a good half-way house between the two.
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