10 Best Drones For Filming 2025 in the United States

The DJI Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo is a solid choice for drone users focused on high-quality aerial filming. Its flagship 100MP Hasselblad main camera paired with dual telephoto lenses offers exceptional image detail and versatile zoom options, great for professional photography and video. The 360° Infinity Gimbal ensures smooth, cinematic camera movements, which helps capture dynamic shots easily. With up to 51 minutes of flight time, this drone allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent battery swaps, and the included three batteries with a charging hub further extend your flying time.

The drone’s O4+ transmission system supports video feeds up to 30km (18.6 miles) with 10-bit HDR, which is excellent for maintaining a strong, clear signal over long distances. Safety is well covered with 0.1-Lux Nightscape omnidirectional obstacle sensing, enabling safer flights even in low light or night conditions. The remote controller features a bright, rotatable 7-inch display that folds for portability, making it easier to operate the drone in various environments. The drone weighs over 4 kg (9.3 pounds), making it less convenient to carry around compared to lighter models. Additionally, the recent removal of the DJI Fly app from Google Play could cause setup challenges, requiring users to download the app directly from DJI’s website.

Packed with premium features, this model is best suited for enthusiasts and professionals who prioritize camera quality, flight endurance, and advanced obstacle avoidance in their aerial filming projects. Newcomers might find some complexity in mastering all controls and settings.

The DJI Mini 4K Fly More Combo is a compact and lightweight drone that is ideal for hobbyists and aspiring filmmakers wanting high-quality aerial footage without the hassle of regulations, as it weighs under 249 g. One of its standout features is the 4K UHD camera combined with a 3-axis gimbal, which ensures smooth and professional-looking videos even in challenging lighting conditions. With a maximum flight time of up to 93 minutes across three batteries, it offers considerable flexibility for extended shooting sessions.

Its 10 km video transmission range allows you to explore vast landscapes and capture footage from a great distance, which is fantastic for outdoor adventures. Additionally, the drone's GPS Return to Home feature and easy one-touch controls make it particularly beginner-friendly, reducing the learning curve for new users. The QuickShots feature is another bonus, enabling users to produce cinematic shots with minimal effort.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the camera quality is impressive, some users may find limitations in low-light conditions compared to more advanced models. The drone's reliance on the DJI Fly app, which may have accessibility issues due to platform compatibility, could also pose a challenge for users looking to manage their footage easily. Additionally, while the Mini 4K is wind-resistant, it may still struggle in very strong winds, affecting stability during flights.

The DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate users interested in aerial filming. Its standout feature is the 4K UHD camera with Dual Native ISO Fusion, ensuring high-quality images and videos even in varying light conditions. The True Vertical Shooting mode is a nice touch for social media enthusiasts, making it easier to capture and share content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Stabilization is top-notch thanks to the 3-axis gimbal, and it can handle winds up to 38kph, offering smooth footage.

The extended flight time of up to 114 minutes (with three batteries) ensures long filming sessions, while the 10km video transmission range allows for vast exploration. The drone's lightweight and compact design make it highly portable, and the Fly More Combo includes a shoulder bag for convenience. Control is straightforward with the DJI RC, which comes with a built-in 5.5-inch HD display and pre-installed DJI Fly App.

Safety features like GPS Return to Home, Precise Hovering, and Auto Takeoff/Landing enhance user confidence, making it beginner-friendly. However, it's worth noting that the drone lacks an advanced obstacle avoidance system, which may require cautious flying in complex environments. Additionally, while it doesn’t require FAA registration under 249g for recreational purposes, the added weight of the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus could necessitate registration. The QuickTransfer feature allows for speedy content transfer via Wi-Fi, adding to the convenience. The DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo's combination of high-quality filming capabilities, user-friendly features, and portability makes it a strong contender for anyone looking to capture stunning aerial footage.