Key Factors To Consider When Buying A Drone For Kids
As a tech professional and drone enthusiast, I have flown many models and understand the key factors that make a great beginner drone for children. Here are the main criteria to evaluate:
Durability: Kid‘s drones need to withstand crashes and bumps. Look for those made from rigid plastics and styrofoam that can take more of a beating. Replaceable parts are also essential.
Ease of Use: Simple, intuitive controls allow kids to pick them up quickly. Features like altitude hold, headless mode, and one-touch takeoff/landing make piloting less complex.
Safety: Propeller guards, low maximum speeds, and emergency stop buttons minimize potential hazards. Make sure any camera drones comply with privacy regulations.
Age Range: Consider your child‘s maturity level. Some fast and sophisticated drones suit ages 12+, while younger kids will benefit from more basic toy quadcopters.
Keeping these criteria in mind, here are my top recommendations:
1. Potensic Upgraded A20 Mini Drone
The Potensic A20 strikes the ideal balance between performance and safety for kids. It has three speed modes allowing beginners to learn slowly before kicking into high gear at 40 mph. The included prop guards and altitude hold give new pilots stability and protection.
Despite its small size, it packs fun tricks like 360 flips into a sturdy airframe that holds up to repeat crashes. Two batteries deliver over 30 minutes of flight time. For only $50, the A20 gives fantastic value.
Pros:
- Protective hull shields propellers
- Headless mode and 3 speed settings for different skill levels
- Impressive flight duration from 2 swappable batteries
Cons:
- No camera
- Small parts pose choking hazard for under 4
2. Snaptain SP500 Foldable Drone
I‘m floored by the camera quality on Snaptain‘s latest drone for just $80. It captures 2K video and 5MP still images stabilized by a 2-axis gimbal. The live video feed amazed my kids as it streamed crisp, clear footage to their mobile device.
This is no toy — the SP500 has smart features like optical flow positioning and one-key return. It‘s larger size and powerful motors provide a faster, more agile performance at the push of a button. Surprisingly tough, its folding design held no major damage after some rough landings.
Pros:
- 2K adjustable camera takes great aerial photos/video
- Intelligent flight modes for easier piloting
- Sturdy folding body built for accidents
Cons:
- Short 10-12 minute flights
- Not for kids under age 8
3. Holyton HT02 Mini Micro Drone
Holyton‘s HT02 campact drone puts all the right convenience features into a petite, portable package. It‘s speed settings enable first-timers to steadily hone their abilities over time. Despite its micro size, altitude hold offers stable hovering without difficult manual throttle adjustments.
I love that it‘s small enough to pack in a suitcase, making it the ultimate travel companion to document family adventures anywhere. It may lack a camera but its low $40 price and prop guards give kids a safe path towards mastering control before graduating to racing sports drones.
Pros:
- Tiny design with propeller protection
- Easy altitude hold and headless modes
- Extreme portability for on-the-go
Cons:
- 7 minutes maximum runtime
- No camera
How To Fly Drones Safely With Kids
While small toy drones provide tons of excitement for kids, parents must establish some ground rules first for safe operation. Here are my top tips:
Set Up In Wide Open Spaces: Schools yards, parks or your backyard work well so drones stay far from crowds and property.
Learn The Controls: Review how to pilot the drone and operate all functions before your child‘s first flight.
Limit Range: For beginners, restrict maximum height and distance. Advanced settings may allow you to digitally fence an area.
Maintain Line Of Sight: Spotting orientation from a distance avoids losing control or crashes.
Consider Conditions: Avoid flying in wet weather or strong winds which reduce stability for hobby drones.
Follow these simple guidelines and your kids will have plenty of safe family fun while developing cool tech skills!
Conclusion
I believe the Potensic A20 is the best kids drone available today based on its unmatched balance of safety, durability and performance. For younger first-timers, Holyton‘s HT02 is a great low-cost starter. And families who crave aerial photography should spring for Snaptain‘s SP500 folding drone with exceptional camera capabilities given its reasonable price point compared to high-end models.
Whichever route you choose, drones make fantastic gifts that create lasting memories. Just be sure to set some basic ground rules and happy flying!
