7 Best Holy Stone Drones Under 250g 2026

The Holy Stone HS900 isn’t just a drone—it’s a revelation in the sub-250g category, packing 8K photo resolution, a 3-axis brushless gimbal, and 20,000-foot transmission range into a frame that flies under the FAA registration threshold. This is the first drone in Holy Stone’s lineup that truly competes with premium mid-tier models, offering cinematic stabilization, GPS precision, and long-range confidence usually reserved for much pricier units. For creators who want pro-level visuals without the regulatory hassle, the HS900 delivers unmatched value in flight performance and imaging capability.

In real-world testing, the HS900 shines with its low-latency 5.8GHz wired video feed, which eliminates the lag and dropouts common in Wi-Fi-based systems—making it ideal for tracking fast-moving subjects or framing precise cinematic shots. The dual 2250mAh batteries provide a combined 60 minutes of flight time, and the included charging hub makes back-to-back missions seamless. It handles Level 5 winds with ease thanks to its brushless gimbal and GPS-assisted stability, capturing buttery-smooth 4K footage even during ascents and panning sweeps. While the app interface could use refinement, the core flight and imaging systems are robust, responsive, and impressively reliable.

Compared to the HS720R and HS360D, the HS900 stands as the most complete package for serious content creators, blending top-tier camera specs with intelligent flight modes like Follow Me, Rocket, and Dronie. It’s heavier on features than the budget-friendly HS720S, and while it shares the 20,000ft range with the HS360D, it adds 8K stills and superior gimbal tech. The HS900 is best suited for intermediate to advanced pilots who want a no-compromise flying experience in a travel-ready, FAA-compliant body. It offers more imaging power and smarter flight tech than the HS720R, making it the clear choice for those prioritizing quality over cost.

The Holy Stone HS720R enters the scene as a serious contender for stable 4K video, combining a 3-axis gimbal, Sony CMOS sensor, and 10,000-foot transmission range in a sleek, foldable design. What sets it apart is its EIS-stabilized 4K footage, which delivers smooth, shakiness-free video even in moderate winds—rare at this price point. With optical flow positioning, GPS precision, and intelligent flight modes, it’s engineered for beginners who want pro-style results without a steep learning curve.

During field tests, the HS720R proved exceptionally reliable in open-field tracking and aerial surveying, maintaining a strong signal up to its advertised 10,000-foot range. The 2950mAh modular battery delivers 26 minutes of real-world flight, and the brushless motors ensure quiet, efficient performance. The Follow Me and Waypoint Flight modes work seamlessly, making it easy to capture dynamic sequences with minimal input. However, the Wi-Fi-based FPV feed can lag in high-interference areas, and low-light video shows noticeable noise—limitations to consider for night shooters.

Positioned between the entry-level HS720S and the flagship HS900, the HS720R offers better stabilization and longer range than the former, while lacking the 8K stills and wired transmission of the latter. It’s ideal for intermediate hobbyists and travel vloggers who prioritize smooth 4K video and GPS-assisted safety in a portable form. When stacked against the HS440G, it provides superior gimbal performance and smarter navigation, making it a better investment for those serious about aerial storytelling.

The Holy Stone HS720S is a budget-savvy powerhouse, proving you don’t need to break the bank to get 4K video, GPS navigation, and 42 minutes of flight time in a sub-250g frame. Its 5GHz transmission system delivers a stable 6,562-foot control range, and the servo-adjustable 90° camera angle allows for dynamic framing without gimbal-level hardware. For new pilots, the Beginner Mode and optical flow positioning make takeoffs and landings feel effortless.

In practice, the HS720S excels in park flights, backyard practice, and casual vlogging, offering crisp 4K footage in daylight and reliable Follow Me and Tap-to-Fly performance. The dual batteries are a major plus, letting users stay airborne longer without extra purchases. While the video feed can pixelate at max range and the camera lacks full stabilization, the real-time FPV remains responsive in most conditions. It struggles slightly in strong winds due to its lightweight motors, but for suburban or forest-edge flying, it’s impressively capable.

Against the HS440G, the HS720S offers longer flight time and smoother GPS tracking, while undercutting the HS720R in price despite sharing core smart features. It’s the best pick for first-time drone owners and budget-focused creators who want solid 4K performance without frills. It delivers more flight time and smarter navigation than the HS110D, making it a smarter long-term investment.

The Holy Stone HS440G strikes a perfect balance between price and performance, delivering 4K UHD video, brushless motor reliability, and dual satellite GPS (GPS + GLONASS) in a palm-sized drone that flies under 250g. Its 120° wide-angle lens and 1,640-foot 5GHz FPV range make it ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes and dynamic action shots with minimal distortion. For new pilots, the one-key takeoff and emergency stop functions instill confidence from the first flight.

Field testing revealed strong outdoor stability, thanks to its brushless motors and dual-satellite lock, which improved hover accuracy over single-GPS models. The Follow Me and Waypoint modes performed reliably in open fields, though tight urban navigation caused occasional signal hiccups. Battery life hit a solid 23 minutes, and the controller’s two-way feedback helped maintain awareness. However, the 2K live feed doesn’t match the recorded 4K quality, and low-light performance is underwhelming.

When compared to the HS720S, the HS440G offers better camera angle coverage and stronger motors, but sacrifices total flight time due to a single battery. It outperforms the HS280D in imaging and range, making it a clear upgrade for aspiring creators. It’s best suited for beginner-to-intermediate users who want a portable, no-registration drone with real creative potential. It provides sharper video and smarter tracking than the HS280D, justifying its place as a top value pick.

The Holy Stone HS280D is a fun-first flyer that brings brushless motor durability and 28 minutes of flight time to the beginner market—rare in this class. Its foldable design and 164g weight make it ultra-portable and CAA-exempt, while Tap Fly, Voice Control, and Gesture Selfie features add playful flair for kids and casual users. This is the drone to buy when ease of use and durability matter more than cinematic results.

In real-world use, the HS280D shines in backyard flights and indoor practice, with optical flow positioning ensuring stable hovering even without GPS. The dual modular batteries are a standout, letting families extend playtime without downtime. The 1080P camera captures decent daylight clips, though detail and stabilization fall short of 4K rivals. It struggles in windy conditions and lacks precision in long-range navigation, but for close-up fun, it’s impressively resilient.

Against the HS110D, the HS280D offers better battery life and brushless motors, while lacking the wide-angle lens. It’s far more capable than basic toy drones, yet simpler than prosumer models like the HS720S. Ideal for teens, kids, and first-time flyers, it’s the best entry point for learning controls without fear of burnout. It delivers longer flight and smarter safety than the HS110D, making it a more future-proof starter drone.

The Holy Stone HS110D is a playful entry-level flyer that packs 1080P wide-angle video, gesture control, and 20 minutes of flight time into a lightweight, approachable design. Its 120° FOV lens captures expansive shots, and the app-enabled gravity control and 3D flips make it a hit with kids and casual users looking for fun over finesse. This is the drone for first-time pilots who want to explore the skies without complexity.

In testing, the HS110D proved stable at close range, with altitude hold and headless mode simplifying orientation during beginner flights. The dual batteries are a welcome inclusion, though charging takes longer than newer models. The Wi-Fi FPV feed suffers from lag beyond 100 feet, and wind resistance is minimal—best flown in calm, open areas. While it can’t match the HS280D’s brushless power, it holds its own for short recreational flights.

Compared to the HS280D, the HS110D offers similar smart features but with less durable motors and shorter flight time. It’s ideal for younger users and gift buyers who prioritize interactive fun over image quality. It’s less advanced than the HS720S but more engaging than basic toys. It provides more tricks and gestures than the HS280D, though with fewer long-term flying benefits.

The Holy Stone HS360D is a long-range legend, boasting an 80-minute total flight time and 20,000-foot HD transmission range—the longest in the lineup. Its wired controller-to-phone connection eliminates Wi-Fi lag, delivering a crisp, low-latency FPV feed that remains stable even at extreme distances. With Follow Me, Circle Fly, and Auto Return, it’s built for explorers who want to capture vast landscapes without signal anxiety.

In extended field tests, the HS360D excelled in rural and coastal environments, maintaining GPS lock and video clarity over 6KM. The two 2250mAh batteries charge efficiently via the included hub, and the 1/3” CMOS sensor captures sharp 4K footage in daylight. Wind resistance is solid, though aggressive maneuvers expose slight gimbal roll. The app is functional but not as polished as DJI’s, with occasional sync delays.

Stacked against the HS900, the HS360D matches its range and battery life but lacks 8K photos and a 3-axis brushless gimbal. It’s more capable than the HS720R in endurance and range, but not in stabilization. Best for long-range enthusiasts and adventure pilots, it’s the ultimate choice for maximizing airtime and exploration. It offers longer flight and better range than the HS900, though with less cinematic image quality.