7 Best Cheap Drones Under $1000 in 2025

You don’t need a $5,000 drone to capture stunning aerial shots. You just Don’t! 

Whether you’re a content creator, a real estate drone photographer, or just a total beginner to drones, you need something reliable without spending a fortune.

In this guide, I’ll break down the top 7 best budget drones under $1000 for photography and video that actually deliver pro-quality images. These aren’t toy drones with shaky footage. They’re serious options for photographers who want the best bang for their buck. 

Let’s get into it.

👉 Also check Best Drones for Real Estate Photography

What Are the Best Budget Drones under $1000? tell me!

Here’s a quick comparison of the best drones for photography under $1000.

Below, we’ll dive into detailed reviews of each model.

1. DJI Mini 4 Pro

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is the perfect mix of power, portability, and smart features—all in a lightweight design. At under 249g, you don’t need FAA registration, making it easy to fly right out of the box.

👉 Read the full DJI Mini 4 Pro review to see if it’s right for you.

It comes with a high-quality camera that shoots sharp 48MP photos and smooth 4K HDR video at 60FPS. What this means is you’ll get clear, detailed shots, even in tricky lighting—whether you’re filming a sunset or capturing landscapes.

The best part? It has full obstacle sensing, so you don’t have to stress about crashing. With a solid 34-minute flight time, you get plenty of time to practice, explore, and capture stunning aerial shots.

Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading, this drone makes pro-level photography easy.

Key Benefits

• Crisp 4K/60FPS HDR Video – Capture sharp details and rich colors with a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, delivering high-quality aerial shots.
• Lightweight & FAA-Friendly – Weighs under 249g, meaning no FAA registration is required in most regions, making it easy to fly anywhere.
• 360° Obstacle Sensing – Advanced sensors detect obstacles from all directions, helping avoid crashes and making flights safer.
• 34-Minute Flight Time – Fly longer on a single charge, giving you more time to get the perfect shot.
• ActiveTrack 360° & Smart Modes – Automatically tracks moving subjects, shoots in vertical mode for social media, and includes cinematic flight paths.
• DJI O4 Transmission System – Reliable video feed with up to 20km range, ensuring clear, real-time footage even from a distance.

Pricing

Pros & Cons

2. Autel Evo Lite+

The Autel EVO Lite+ is a powerful camera drone built for serious photography and video. It shoots 6K video (5472×3648 resolution) and 20MP photos, meaning ultra-sharp images and pro-level clarity. The adjustable aperture (f/2.8–f/11) gives you more control over brightness and depth of field, making it great for both daylight and low-light shooting.

With a 40-minute battery life, you get longer flights than most drones in this price range.

Unlike DJI drones, the EVO Lite+ has no geofencing restrictions, so you can fly without unnecessary no-fly zones blocking you. The SkyLink transmission system gives you real-time video up to 7.4 miles away, though live streaming is limited to 2.7K resolution for smooth transmission. Its 150° wide-angle obstacle avoidance provides better coverage, making flights safer and more reliable.

Before you fly, make sure you understand drone registration rules.

Key Benefits

• 6K/30FPS Video & 20MP Photos – Crisp, high-resolution footage with strong detail and color accuracy.
• Adjustable Aperture (f/2.8–f/11) – Manual control over brightness and focus depth for better exposure.
• 40-Minute Flight Time – One of the longest battery lives in this price range for extended shooting.
• No Geofencing Restrictions – Fly without DJI’s no-fly zone limitations, giving you more flexibility.
• 7.4-Mile Video Transmission – Long-range flying with a smooth, low-latency live feed (2.7K resolution for streaming).
• 150° Wide-Angle Obstacle Avoidance – Detects obstacles in a larger field of view, reducing blind spots.

Pricing

Pros & Cons

3. DJI Flip (Fly More Combo)

The DJI Flip Fly More Combo is a lightweight, regulation-friendly drone designed for hassle-free flying. It features a 4K/60FPS camera with a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, allowing for clear, high-quality footage in various lighting conditions.

With built-in AI subject tracking, palm takeoff, and auto return-to-home, this drone makes capturing cinematic aerial shots effortless—even for beginners.

The Fly More Combo includes three batteries, giving you up to 93 minutes of total flight time, so you can fly longer without constantly recharging.

Before you fly, make sure you understand drone registration rules.

Key Benefits

• 4K/60FPS Ultra-HD Video – Capture sharp, detailed footage with high dynamic range for stunning visuals.
• Lightweight & FAA-Friendly – No need for FAA registration or Remote ID, making travel and flying easier.
• Palm Takeoff & AI Subject Tracking – Launch the drone without a remote and let it follow your subject automatically.
• Extended Flight Time – Three batteries provide up to 93 minutes of total flying time.
• Propeller Guards for Added Safety – Foldable carbon fiber guards protect the drone during flight.
• Bright RC 2 Screen Controller – No need for a smartphone; the high-brightness screen provides clear, real-time viewing.

Pricing

Pros & Cons

4. DJI Mini 3 Drone [With DJI RC Controller]

Another DJI model makes the list, and it’s no surprise—they’ve built a reputation for high-quality drones at every price point.

The DJI Mini 3 offers 4K HDR video and 48MP photos, making it one of the best budget-friendly drones for photography. At under 249g, you don’t need FAA registration for recreational flying, making it hassle-free to get in the air.

With 38 minutes of flight time, a 3-axis gimbal for smooth shots, and a 10km HD video transmission, it’s perfect for capturing everything from landscapes to social media-ready vertical videos. It even holds steady in Level 5 winds for more reliable flights.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, travel-friendly drone that still delivers top-tier performance, the Mini 3 is hard to beat.

Before you fly, make sure you understand drone registration rules.

Key Benefits

• 4K HDR Video & 12MP Photos: Capture high-quality visuals suitable for social media and personal projects.
• Lightweight Design (Under 249g): Exempt from FAA registration for recreational use, making it user-friendly for beginners.
• Up to 38-Minute Flight Time: Extended flying sessions to explore and capture more content.
• True Vertical Shooting: Easily create content optimized for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
• 10km HD Video Transmission: Reliable long-distance control with clear live video feed.
• QuickShots & Panorama Modes: Automated flight patterns for creative and dynamic shots.

Pros & Cons

5. Autel Evo Nano+

The Autel Evo Nano+ is a compact drone weighing under 249 grams, making it easy to carry and exempt from FAA registration for recreational use.

Equipped with a 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor, it captures sharp 50MP photos and 4K/30FPS videos, even in low-light conditions, thanks to its RYYB color filter design.

The drone offers a flight time of up to 28 minutes and features three-way obstacle avoidance for enhanced safety. Its foldable design and multiple color options add to its appeal for both beginners and experienced pilots.

Key Benefits

• High-Resolution Imaging: Captures 50MP photos and 4K/30FPS videos for detailed visuals.
• Low-Light Performance: RYYB color filter array enhances image quality in dim environments.
• Portable Design: Weighs less than 249 grams and folds compactly for easy transport.
• Obstacle Avoidance: Three-way sensors detect obstacles in front, behind, and below.
• Extended Flight Time: Up to 28 minutes of continuous operation per battery charge.
• No Geo-Fencing: Fly without automatic restrictions, offering more freedom.

Pricing

Pros & Cons

6. Holy Stone HS720G

The Holy Stone HS720G is a budget-friendly drone designed for beginners, offering essential features to kickstart your aerial photography journey.

Equipped with a 4K Ultra HD camera mounted on a 2-axis gimbal with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), it ensures smooth and clear footage. The drone provides a flight time of up to 26 minutes per battery, totaling 52 minutes with the included two batteries, allowing ample time to explore and capture your surroundings.

Its GPS-assisted flight features, such as auto-return and intelligent flight modes, enhance user experience and safety. Also, another thing I find cool is that the HS720G is FAA-compliant with built-in Remote ID, eliminating the need for an extra module.

Key Benefits

• 4K Ultra HD Camera with EIS: Capture high-resolution images and videos with reduced vibrations for clearer footage.
• 2-Axis Gimbal Stabilization: Ensures smooth and stable shots by compensating for drone movements.
• Extended Flight Time: Dual batteries provide a total of 52 minutes of flight, allowing for prolonged aerial sessions.
• GPS Auto Return: Automatically returns to the takeoff point when the signal is lost or the battery is low, preventing potential loss.
• Brushless Motors: Offer quieter operation and longer lifespan compared to brushed motors.
• FAA-Compliant Remote ID: Built-in Remote ID meets FAA requirements, ensuring legal and safe flights without additional modules.

Pricing

Pros & Cons

7. Ruko F11 Pro

The Ruko F11PRO is a solid drone for anyone who wants high-quality aerial shots without breaking the bank. It packs a 4K UHD camera that captures sharp photos and smooth video, giving you a clear view from above. Plus, it comes with two batteries, so you get a full hour of flight time—way more than most drones in this price range.

What makes it stand out? GPS auto-return means you won’t have to stress about losing it, and brushless motors keep it steady, even in windier conditions. It’s easy to fly, beginner-friendly, and folds up neatly, making it a great pick for travel, practice, or just having fun.

Key Benefits

• 4K Ultra HD Camera: Capture high-resolution photos and videos with stunning clarity.
• 60-Minute Total Flight Time: Two batteries offer extended flying sessions without frequent recharging.
• Brushless Motors: Provide powerful and stable flight performance with reduced noise.
• GPS Auto Return Home: Ensures the drone returns safely if the signal is lost or the battery is low.
• Beginner-Friendly Features: Intelligent flight modes and easy controls make it accessible for newcomers.
• Foldable Design: Compact and portable, ideal for travel and on-the-go adventures.

Pricing

Pros & Cons

What Is Considered an Affordable Drone?

An affordable drone delivers solid camera performance without costing a fortune. These drones typically fall under $1000 and are designed for photographers, content creators, and hobbyists who need high-quality aerial shots without pro-level pricing. 

They come with stabilized 4K cameras, smart flight modes, and long battery life, making them great for serious photography.

What makes a drone affordable isn’t just the price—it’s what you get for the money. Many lower-cost drones use the same camera sensors as premium models but may have fewer obstacle sensors, shorter flight times, or a slightly reduced range. 

That doesn’t mean they can’t produce stunning aerial shots, it just means they’re built to be more cost-effective.

If you want a drone that captures professional-quality images without draining your wallet, these models strike the right balance. They cut out unnecessary extras but still offer everything you need to shoot cinematic content.

How Can Affordable Drones for Photography Benefit You?

If you’ve ever looked at breathtaking aerial shots and thought, “Man, I wish I could take photos like that,” guess what? You absolutely can—without spending thousands. 

Affordable drones give you the power to capture stunning landscapes, real estate shots, and cinematic footage that looks straight out of a professional portfolio.

One of the biggest benefits? You don’t need years of experience. 

Many of these drones come with smart flight modes, obstacle avoidance, and auto-tracking to make sure your shots turn out smooth—even if you’re new to flying. It’s like having a built-in assistant helping you get the perfect angle every time.

And let’s talk value. You’re getting 4K cameras, stabilized footage, and intelligent features at a fraction of the cost of high-end drones. Sure, they might not have every pro-level feature, but for most photographers, they offer everything you need to shoot incredible content without draining your wallet.

Buyer’s Guide: How I Conducted My Research

I want you to be 100% happy with your purchase. That’s why I didn’t just slap together a list and say here you go!

I took the time to research drones that actually deliver on their promises. I looked at price, camera quality, flight performance, and real user experiences to make sure these picks are worth your time and money.

Pricing

Let’s be real—affordability matters. I focused on drones under $1000 that still give you pro-level camera quality, solid flight time, and reliable features. 

There are cheaper options out there, but most of them aren’t worth it if you care about image quality and stability.

Camera & Features

A drone is only as good as its camera, right? That’s why I prioritized drones that shoot in at least 4K, have good low-light performance, and come with gimbal stabilization. Some of these drones are even good enough for commercial use—but keep in mind, if you plan to fly for business, you’ll need a Part 107 certification.

Limitations & Trade-Offs

Let’s be honest—no drone under $1000 is perfect. Nor are expensive ones.

Some lack long-range transmission, obstacle sensors on all sides, or advanced features like thermal imaging. Others might have shorter battery life or struggle in high winds. But for the price? They still offer incredible value for what they do.

Customer Support & Warranties

This is where some brands stand out. 

DJI and Autel, for example, offer great customer support, active user communities, and decent warranty policies. If you’re new to drones, having someone to talk to can make a huge difference. You can watch all the YouTube videos you want, but nothing beats actual one-on-one support when you’re stuck.

Wrapping Up

I know choosing the right drone can feel overwhelming—there are so many options out there. 

But here’s the thing…

You don’t need the most expensive drone to take incredible shots. You just need the right one for you. That’s why I put this guide together—to make your decision easier and help you find a drone that you’ll actually love using.

Every drone on this list was picked with real photographers and creators in mind. Whether you go with DJI for its reliability, Autel for its innovation, or a solid budget-friendly option like Holy Stone, I’m confident that you’ll find something here that fits your needs. 

More than anything, I just want you to walk away happy with your choice.

So take your time, compare the options, and pick a drone that matches your vision. I appreciate you for trusting this guide, and I can’t wait for you to get out there and start capturing the kind of shots you’ve always wanted. 

Happy flying!

FAQ – Best Budget Drones for Photography Under $1000

What features should I prioritize when choosing an affordable photography drone?

When selecting a budget-friendly drone for photography, focus on key features like camera quality (aim for at least 12MP and 4K video capability), battery life (longer flight times allow for more shooting opportunities), and stabilization (gimbal systems help in capturing smooth footage). Additionally, consider drones with GPS for better navigation and intelligent flight modes to enhance your shooting experience. These features ensure you get the best value without overspending.

Are there any legal requirements or regulations I should be aware of before flying a drone?

Yes, before flying a drone, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with local regulations. In many countries, drones over a certain weight (often 250 grams) must be registered with aviation authorities. There may also be restrictions on where you can fly, such as near airports or overpopulated areas. Always check the specific rules in your area to ensure safe and legal drone operation.

How do budget drones compare to high-end models in terms of camera performance?

While high-end drones offer superior camera systems with larger sensors and advanced features, many budget drones under $1000 still provide impressive camera performance. You can expect capabilities like 4K video recording, decent low-light performance, and various shooting modes. However, there might be limitations in dynamic range and image sharpness compared to premium models.

What is the typical flight time I can expect from drones in this price range?

Most drones priced under $1000 offer flight times ranging from 20 to 30 minutes on a single battery charge. Factors like wind conditions, flight speed, and usage of features can affect this duration. It’s advisable to invest in additional batteries to extend your shooting sessions without interruptions.

How important is customer support and warranty when purchasing a drone?

Customer support and warranty are crucial aspects to consider. Reliable customer service can assist with troubleshooting, repairs, and guidance, enhancing your overall experience. A good warranty provides peace of mind, covering potential defects or issues that may arise. Brands like DJI and Autel are known for their responsive support and comprehensive warranty policies, making them trustworthy choices for consumers.