10 Best Drones Under $200 2026 in the United States

The Holy Stone HS360S is a lightweight and user-friendly drone that stands out in the under $200 category, primarily due to its impressive 4K UHD camera and a control range of up to 10,000 feet. With a flight time of around 20 minutes, it offers a decent duration for capturing aerial footage, making it an excellent choice for beginners and casual users looking to explore photography or videography from new heights.

One of the standout features is its advanced GPS functionality, which ensures not only stable flights but also a reliable return home feature. This is especially useful for new drone pilots who might feel anxious about losing their drone. The inclusion of smart features like Follow Me and Waypoint Flight adds a layer of creativity for capturing dynamic shots.

The construction is generally stable and durable, though it's important to handle it carefully due to its lightweight nature. Although it is designed for ease of use, absolute beginners might still face a learning curve with some of the more advanced features, which could be overwhelming at first. The HS360S is a solid choice for beginner drone enthusiasts who want a good camera and user-friendly features without the complexity of higher-end models.

The Holy Stone HS360D stands out in the under-$200 drone category by offering a noteworthy 4K UHD camera with an 85° wide-angle lens, which is excellent for capturing detailed aerial photos and videos. It’s lightweight at 125 grams and doesn’t require FAA registration, making it convenient for casual flyers. Flight time is impressive, with up to 80 minutes total thanks to two included batteries, allowing longer sessions before recharging. Control range is strong too, with up to 6 kilometers (about 20,000 feet) transmission supported by a wired connection to your phone for smoother, low-latency video feed. This helps make flying and real-time viewing easier compared to drones that rely purely on WiFi.

The drone’s GPS features such as Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, and Auto Return add beginner-friendly stability and safety, making it simpler to fly confidently. The foldable design and included carrying case make it travel-friendly, although the plastic build, while common at this price, might not be as durable as more expensive models. The drone also depends heavily on the Holy Stone app, which is regularly updated but can present a learning curve for new users.

The HS360D is a strong choice for adults new to drones or hobbyists looking for high-resolution video and stable flight within a budget, though those wanting rugged durability or professional-grade controls might find its plastic frame and app reliance limiting.

The DJI Neo is a lightweight and user-friendly drone that fits well within the under $200 category. One of its standout features is the 4K UHD camera, which captures high-quality video and images, making it appealing for casual users wanting to document their adventures. Its AI subject tracking and QuickShots modes allow for easy, creative filming, perfect for those looking to share their experiences on social media. With a flight time that suits short outings and a control range that is adequate for most casual uses, the DJI Neo excels in delivering a fun flying experience.

The drone is designed for beginners, offering palm takeoff and landing, which minimizes the learning curve and enhances safety. Its full-coverage propeller guards provide additional peace of mind for nervous flyers, allowing for adventurous flying without the worry of damaging the drone. Its compact design means it can easily fit into a backpack, making it a great companion for trips.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the DJI Neo is lightweight and regulation-friendly, it does require activation through the DJI Fly App, which has been noted to have compatibility issues on Google Play, potentially complicating the initial setup for some users. Additionally, although its features make it great for beginners, more experienced drone users might find it lacks advanced controls and customizations available in higher-end models.