10 Best Photogrammetry Drones 2025 in the United States

The DJI Mini 3 is a lightweight and compact drone that's well-suited for enthusiasts and professionals interested in photogrammetry. One of its standout features is the ability to capture stunning 4K HDR video, which is essential for detailed aerial imaging. The inclusion of a 3-axis mechanical gimbal ensures stable footage, even in challenging conditions, while the drone's wind resistance rated at Level 5 further enhances its reliability outdoors.

With a flight time of up to 38 minutes, and the potential to extend it to 51 minutes with an additional battery, this drone offers a decent duration for capturing images over larger areas. The 10 km (32,800 feet) video transmission range is impressive, allowing for extensive exploration without losing connection, making it ideal for remote surveying tasks.

The Mini 3 is designed with ease of use in mind, featuring beginner-friendly controls and GPS Return to Home (RTH) functionality, which adds a layer of safety for new users. The QuickTransfer feature via Wi-Fi allows for fast downloads of your footage, enhancing the user experience. That said, while the drone is lightweight and avoids the need for FAA registration, it may not handle complex photogrammetric tasks as effectively as heavier models with larger payload capacities. Users requiring extensive capabilities for professional photogrammetry might want to explore heavier drones that can provide additional features and versatility.

The Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N drone stands out in the photogrammetry drone category with impressive camera quality, combining a 50MP wide camera, an advanced starlight night-vision camera, a thermal imaging sensor, and a precise laser rangefinder. This makes it a strong choice for users needing detailed data capture in various lighting and environmental conditions, including nighttime and through glass. The flight time of up to 42 minutes is solid, allowing for extended missions without frequent battery changes.

Its stability and GPS performance are bolstered by triple anti-jamming technology and advanced flight controls, ensuring reliable operation even near power lines or in complex environments. The drone's 20 km transmission range and Autel's A-Mesh 1.0 networking enhance communication and control, especially useful for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) tasks.

Obstacle avoidance is exceptional here, with a unique combination of binocular vision and millimeter wave radar to detect very small objects in various conditions, reducing the risk of crashes during low-light or difficult weather flights. The Autel SDK allows integration with custom applications, supporting specialized photogrammetry workflows and 3D mapping missions, which is valuable for professional surveying and public safety uses.

The EVO MAX 4N suits advanced users or professionals needing versatile, high-quality imaging across multiple spectrums, along with strong flight reliability and long-range communication. Its sophisticated obstacle avoidance and night vision features provide significant benefits for detailed surveys in challenging conditions. Beginners might find the advanced controls and price point steep, but it offers a compelling package for serious photogrammetry work.

The DJI Mini 4K is an impressive choice for anyone venturing into using drones for photogrammetry, especially beginners. Weighing under 249 grams, it eliminates the need for FAA registration, making it accessible for casual users. The 4K UHD camera paired with a 3-axis gimbal ensures high-quality, stable footage, which is essential for capturing detailed images in various lighting conditions. Additionally, with a maximum flight time of 31 minutes and the option to expand to two or three batteries, users can enjoy extended flying without frequent interruptions.

When it comes to usability, this drone shines with features designed for novices. One-tap takeoff and landing, GPS Return to Home, and intelligent flight tutorials make it incredibly user-friendly. Its ability to withstand winds up to 38kph adds to the reliability during outdoor shoots.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The DJI Fly app, crucial for controlling the drone, is currently unavailable on Google Play due to compatibility issues, potentially complicating the setup process for some users. Additionally, while the 10km HD video transmission range is outstanding, beginners may find it challenging to manage such distances without proper experience. Moreover, while the obstacle avoidance feature is present, it might not be as robust as in higher-end models, requiring users to remain vigilant during flights. The payload capacity is limited, which might restrict advanced users looking to attach additional equipment for more complex photogrammetry tasks. The DJI Mini 4K is a fantastic entry-level drone for beginners interested in photography and videography, offering a balance of quality, ease of use, and innovative features, but it might not meet the needs of more experienced users requiring advanced functionalities.