9 Best 249g Drones of 2026

This under 249g drone delivers an impressively smooth entry into aerial photography with its built-in 4.5-inch HD screen controller, eliminating the need for a smartphone—perfect for beginners who want plug-and-play simplicity. The dual 30-minute batteries offer up to 60 minutes of total flight time, a standout in this price range, while the brushless motors ensure quiet, stable, and durable performance even in mild winds. Add in 5GHz real-time video transmission and GPS-assisted auto return, and you’ve got a drone that solves the core frustrations of signal dropouts, lost drones, and clunky app dependency.

In real-world use, the ScharkSpark shines during casual outdoor flights, capturing sharp 4K footage with its 90° adjustable lens and delivering reliable control within a 10,000-foot range. It handles transitions between open fields and light tree coverage well, thanks to optical flow and GPS positioning, though it can wobble slightly in gusts above 15 mph. The Follow Me and Tap Fly modes work reliably in open areas, but low-light video lacks dynamic range compared to higher-end models. While the SD card inclusion is a thoughtful touch, the lack of a gimbal means footage can feel jittery during aggressive maneuvers or windy conditions.

Positioned as a beginner-friendly alternative to premium ultralights, the ScharkSpark competes most directly with the Holy Stone HS360S but pulls ahead with longer flight time and a superior controller screen. It’s ideal for hobbyists and families wanting a no-fuss, no-phone-needed flying experience with solid camera performance and strong safety features. While it doesn’t match the cinematic stabilization of 3-axis gimbal drones, it offers exceptional value for those prioritizing ease of use and screen convenience over pro-grade video quality.

The DJI Mini 4K Fly More Combo is the gold standard for sub-249g drones, blending cinematic 4K video, 3-axis gimbal stabilization, and a staggering 93 minutes of max flight time into a featherlight frame that flies under the FAA radar—literally. With 10km HD video transmission, Level 5 wind resistance, and intelligent QuickShots like Helix and Dronie, this drone doesn’t just capture moments—it crafts stories with pro-level polish. For creators who demand smooth, stable footage without the bulk, the Mini 4K is a game-changer.

In field testing, the drone excels in diverse environments—from coastal cliffs to urban rooftops—delivering buttery-smooth footage even in 20–25 mph winds, thanks to its brushless motors and advanced flight algorithms. The 3-axis gimbal eliminates shake, making it perfect for dynamic tracking shots or slow reveals at sunrise. The 10km transmission holds strong in open areas, though dense cityscapes reduce range to about 5–6 km. Battery life is consistent, with each battery delivering close to 31 minutes, and the two-way charging hub makes field swaps seamless. However, users must download the DJI Fly app manually from the website, a minor friction point for Android users.

Compared to the Potensic ATOM 2 and Veeniix V11MINI, the DJI Mini 4K offers a more refined ecosystem, better app integration, and superior reliability. It’s the ideal choice for travel vloggers, content creators, and intermediate pilots who want maximum performance without registration hassle. While it costs more than budget models, its flight time, stabilization, and transmission range make it the most well-rounded performer in the under-249g category.

The Veeniix V11MINI 4K is a hidden powerhouse in the ultralight drone market, packing 8K photo capability, a 3-axis brushless gimbal, and a remarkable 96 minutes of flight time into a sleek, FAA-exempt 249g frame. Its standout feature is the 1/2-inch CMOS sensor, which captures 48MP photos with exceptional dynamic range and detail—ideal for photographers who want high-resolution stills from the sky. Add 20,000ft digital transmission and EIS + gimbal stabilization, and you’ve got a drone that punches far above its weight.

In real-world use, the V11MINI delivers impressively stable footage, with the dual stabilization system handling turbulence and quick movements with confidence. The VQ 3.0 fast charging hub fully charges all three batteries in under 90 minutes, minimizing downtime during extended shoots. The real-time 20,000ft HD feed remains solid in rural and suburban areas, though urban signal reflection can cause occasional latency. GPS return and quadruple positioning tech ensure reliable home locks, while the 120dB beeper is a lifesaver in tall grass or low-light conditions. However, the app interface feels less polished than DJI’s, and 8K photos require significant editing power.

When compared to the Bwine F7MINI and Potensic ATOM 2, the V11MINI offers similar specs but with a stronger focus on photo resolution and flight endurance. It’s best suited for content creators and photography enthusiasts who prioritize still image quality and long session flexibility over brand-name polish. While it lacks DJI’s ecosystem maturity, its feature-for-feature value makes it a compelling alternative for those seeking 8K clarity and marathon flight times.

The Bwine F7MINI is a feature-packed beast for beginners and intermediates alike, offering 8K photos, 4K video, and 96 minutes of flight time in a sub-249g body—all wrapped in an intuitive, AI-driven flight system. What sets it apart is its advanced smart tracking, including ActiveTrack, Waypoints, and Orbit modes, which let novice pilots capture cinematic, pro-style shots with minimal effort. The 3-axis brushless gimbal and EIS stabilization work in tandem to deliver smooth footage, while the Type-C wired digital transmission ensures a rock-solid 6km HD feed with near-zero latency.

In practice, the F7MINI handles complex missions like pre-programmed flight paths and hands-free subject tracking with impressive accuracy, maintaining 0.5m tracking precision even in moderate wind. The 1503 brushless motors provide strong thrust and stability, allowing it to fly smoothly in Level 4 winds. The dual-mode positioning (GPS + optical flow) works well indoors and out, and the dynamic home point update ensures the drone returns to your current location, not just the takeoff spot. However, the app is Android/iOS only, and urban signal congestion can reduce transmission range by up to 30%.

Versus the Veeniix V11MINI, the F7MINI offers better smart tracking and app integration, making it the superior choice for vloggers, hikers, and social media creators who want automated, dynamic shots. While it doesn’t have DJI’s polish, it delivers pro-level features at a mid-tier price. Its AI-powered tracking and 96-minute flight window make it one of the smartest, most capable drones under 249g for beginners aiming for professional results.

The Holy Stone HS360S is the budget king of GPS-enabled sub-249g drones, delivering 4K video, 10,000-foot control range, and brushless motor performance at a price that undercuts nearly every competitor. It’s designed for first-time flyers who want real GPS functionality—auto return, precise hovering, and Follow Me—without spending hundreds. The single-cable smartphone connection eliminates Wi-Fi pairing hassles, offering a low-latency FPV feed that’s surprisingly stable for the price.

In real-world testing, the HS360S performs admirably in open fields and parks, with GPS-assisted hovering and safe return-to-home working reliably. The 4K camera with GalaxyCore sensor captures decent detail in daylight, though low-light footage is noisy and lacks contrast. Wind resistance is acceptable up to 15 mph, but the drone struggles in gusts, and 20-minute battery life feels short compared to dual-battery rivals. The Follow Me and Waypoint modes are functional but less precise than higher-end models, often requiring manual correction.

When stacked against the ScharkSpark or PLEGBLE, the HS360S lacks built-in screen convenience and extended flight time, but it wins on pure value and GPS reliability. It’s the top pick for budget-conscious beginners who want essential smart features without frills. While it doesn’t offer gimbal stabilization or 8K photos, it delivers a solid, no-nonsense flying experience that punches above its price—making it the best entry point into GPS drone flying under $170.

The PLEGBLE drone stands out with its 5.0-inch built-in HD screen, offering a true plug-and-play FPV experience that’s perfect for beginners who hate smartphone dependency. Weighing under 249g, it combines 70 minutes of flight time, EIS stabilization, and AI-powered tracking modes into a user-friendly package that’s both portable and powerful. The no-latency screen delivers smooth real-time video, while Follow Me, Waypoint, and Circle Flight modes make creative shooting accessible—even for first-time pilots.

In practice, the drone handles well in light wind, with GPS and optical flow ensuring stable hover and accurate return-to-home. The 130° wide-angle lens captures expansive views, and EIS does a decent job smoothing out bumps, though it can’t match a 3-axis gimbal in turbulent conditions. The dual 2700mAh batteries charge via USB-C and deliver consistent 35-minute flights, outperforming many single-battery rivals. However, transmission range maxes out around 4–5km in open areas, and the SD card is not included, a surprising omission.

Compared to the ScharkSpark, the PLEGBLE offers a larger screen and longer flight time, but lacks 5GHz transmission and brushless motors. It’s ideal for families, travelers, and new pilots who want a screen-equipped drone with smart features and solid endurance. While it doesn’t reach DJI-level refinement, its screen convenience and 70-minute flight window make it one of the most beginner-friendly options with a built-in display.

The Potensic ATOM 2 is a dark horse in the ultralight drone race, distinguished by its AI Night Shot capability and 8K photo resolution—a rare combo in the sub-$400 segment. Built around a 1/2-inch Sony CMOS sensor and F1.8 aperture, it captures crisp, detailed low-light videos that outperform many competitors, making it the best choice for dusk, dawn, or urban night flights. With a 3-axis gimbal, 10km transmission, and 96 minutes of flight time, it’s a serious tool for creators who shoot beyond daylight hours.

Field tests confirm its night video superiority, with 4-in-1 pixel binning pulling clear detail from dim scenes where others produce noise. The AI Spotlight, Follow, and Parallel tracking are responsive and accurate, enabling dynamic subject tracking. The new remote with directional antenna boosts signal stability, and QuickShots like Dolly Zoom add cinematic flair. However, the app (Potensic Eve) is less intuitive than DJI’s, and wind resistance lags slightly behind the Mini 4K in gusty conditions.

Pitted against the DJI Mini 4K, the ATOM 2 trades brand prestige for better night performance and longer flight time. It’s the top pick for creators who shoot at twilight or in cityscapes, offering AI-powered night clarity and 8K stills at a competitive price. While it lacks DJI’s ecosystem, its niche strength in low-light imaging makes it a must-consider alternative for photographers wanting more than just daylight drones.

The DJI Mini 4K is the most accessible gateway into professional-grade aerial imaging, packing 4K HDR video, 3-axis gimbal stabilization, and 10km transmission into a 249g miracle that requires no FAA registration. With Level 5 wind resistance, QuickShots, and GPS-assisted safety, it offers DJI’s signature polish at an entry-level price. For beginners who want cinematic quality without complexity, this drone is unbeatable in its class.

In testing, the single-battery model delivers consistent 30-minute flights, with gimbal-stabilized footage that remains smooth even during sharp turns. The 10km OcuSync transmission is rock-solid in open areas, and auto return works flawlessly during signal loss or low battery. However, the lack of included extra batteries means frequent charging for extended outings, and Android users must sideload the DJI Fly app, creating a minor setup hurdle.

Compared to the PLEGBLE and Holy Stone, the Mini 4K delivers far superior video quality and wind resistance, though at a higher cost. It’s perfect for new pilots who prioritize image quality and brand reliability over flight time. While the Fly More Combo offers better value, this base model is still the best budget-friendly path to pro-level 4K in the sub-249g world.

The DJI Mini 4K Camera Drone Combo strikes the perfect balance between cost and capability, offering two batteries for 62 minutes of flight time, 10km transmission, and 3-axis gimbal stabilization in a no-registration 249g frame. It’s the sweet spot for pilots who want extended airtime without the full Fly More price, making it the best value proposition in DJI’s Mini 4K lineup.

Real-world use confirms its endurance advantage, with seamless battery swaps and fast recharges keeping you in the air longer. The gimbal delivers buttery-smooth 4K, and QuickShots like Rocket and Circle make pro-style videos effortless. The shoulder bag and spare props add practical value, and GPS return is flawless. However, like all Mini 4K models, it requires manual app download on Android, a small but persistent friction.

Against the single-battery Mini 4K, this combo offers double the flight time for a moderate price increase, making it far more practical for travel and events. While the Fly More Combo includes three batteries, this version hits the ideal balance of price, portability, and performance—ideal for serious beginners and hobbyists who want more sky time without overspending.