If you are a tech-savvy person, then you might know about the reputation of DJI drones. Yes, definitely, there are such good reasons for DJI to have carried well value in the market. Although this popularity has faded a little, do you know why this is happening? Formerly, it’s probably right to say DJI deserved to take 70% of the market share. A few years ago, they served outstanding full packed feature quadcopters.
There are no such competitors they had, but that was then, and it is now. If you can take a look in the market, then you can find there are many more manufacturers that offer the same or more features at an affordable price. So, let’s check the alternatives of DJI drone together.
1. DJI Mavic
DJI Mavic is a completely handy drone, whether it is portable and foldable; you also can get aerial adventure through this drone. Currently, it has two different models- Mavic Pro and Mavic Pro Platinum. Before going to distinguish these two drones, we have to know about the key features of DJI Mavic-
- This is a very lightweight 735gm (1.6 lbs), and the battery is 2970 mAh. This battery takes more than 60 minutes to get fully charged.
- It can fly for 27 minutes at once, and it covers a long range of 4.3 miles (7 km)
- It has the capacity to reach speeds up to 40 mph (18/s).
2. DJI Spark
DJI spark is another wonderful example of DJI drones-
- This drone consists of a 1480 mAh battery, and it takes 90 minutes to charge fully.
- The weight of this device is very light, only 300g, but the flight time is really poor only 15 minutes.
- Apart from these features, you can control this drone to cover the 100m range.
3. DJI Phantom
Phantom series is a really innovative one among the DJI drones. Do you know what the specialty of this series is? Let us tell you this series is special because it has used 4K versions. Moreover, this version carries three types of drones, such as- DJI Phantom 3 Pro, DJI Phantom Standard, and DJI Phantom 4. It will be excessive to say that it all has alternatives, but there are many drones that give tough competition to this series.
- It comes with a 20 MP CMOS camera, and 3-axis motorized gimbal for advanced photography and videoing.
- It can go up to 72 KMPH even in strong wind currents.
- Ultimate flight range with a handy controller.
Best DJI Drones:
| Preview | Product Name | Details | Check Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | #1 |
DJI Mavic Pro 4K |
|
Buy On Amazon |
| #2 | #2 |
DJI Spark with Remote Control Combo |
|
Buy On Amazon |
| #3 | #3 |
DJI Phantom 4 Pro |
|
Buy On Amazon |
What is the Need to Buy a DJI Alternative?
Here we are going to look closely at the top DJI alternative drones available right now. It is mainly because the look and design are much similar to the DJI quadcopters. Although, you also can find many unique looks and features which we cannot see in DJI.
Moreover, our main focus is to identify the reason why these drones are superior to DJI drones. Interestingly, the prime reason to call other drones as alternatives to DJI is that they also use the same technology and software in their devices.
More or less inclusion of the same control option facilitates their drones to get comparable flight performance, and the use of cameras has a similar capability.
The alternatives of DJI have launched their quadcopters which compete with the following three DJI models:
- The DJI Mavic Series
- The DJI Spark
- The DJI Phantom Series.
DJI has possessed a 60-80% share of the market, especially in the hardware market. As we know, they have set a benchmark in many aspects- flexibility, price, and capability.
If we get back to the last few years, DJI has ruled the drone industry because they are the best option used in defense.
Now you must have a question in your mind, why are they unable to retain their position? We have a certain answer to your question, competition is getting high, and DJI cannot provide better features at a low price as other manufacturers are offering.
Various Alternatives of DJI Drone & Their Key Features:
| Preview | Product Name | DETAILS | Check Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | #1 |
Yuneec Breeze 4K Drone |
|
Buy On Amazon |
| #2 | #2 |
Parrot Bebop 2 Drone |
|
Currently Unavailable |
| #3 | #3 |
UPair One Plus 4K Drone |
|
Buy On Amazon |
| #4 | #4 |
Autel X Star Premium Drone |
|
Currently Unavailable |
| #5 | #5 |
Geniusidea 4K Follow Drone |
|
Buy On Amazon |
| #6 | #6 |
GoPro Karma with HERO5 Black |
|
Buy On Amazon |
We have enlisted a number of DJI drones, which are considered among the best drones. These drones are- DJI Mavic, DJI Phantom, and DJI Spark. As we mentioned before, we will show you some best alternative quadcopters of DJI devices. These are mentioned below-
1. Yuneec Breeze 4K – Best Alternative to DJI Mavic
Yuneec Breeze 4K is an affordable drone that comes equipped with tons of features, and that makes it superior to DJI Mavic Quad. This is a compact drone with a decent flying range and controllable camera so that you will get superb shots every time.
Specifications:
| Flight Time (Approximately) | 12 minutes |
| Weight | 13.6 oz. |
| Charging Time (Approximately) | 2 Hours |
| Dimensions | 11 x 8.7 x 3.1 inches |
| Controller Type | Smartphone |
| Flight Range | 100 meters |
| Camera | 4K, 13 MP |
What Makes Yuneec Breeze Best Alternative Mavic Quad?
First of all, buying the Yuneec Breeze will not break the bank as it is far more affordable as compared to DJI Mavic. Moreover, the drone is nothing behind Mavic in terms of features. Here are some features that make it a good alternative for Mavic Quad.
Ultra HD Camera:
The drone comes with a 4k Ultra-HD camera that will assist you in capturing some breathtaking shots. The camera is 13 MP, and you can better understand how the quality of the picture will look like.
Automated Flight:
There are five different flight modes available in this drone, and you can use them to make flying easy. Whether you are a novice user or a trained one, the automated flight modes will help a lot.
One-Touch Takeoff:
The drone takes off immediately after you click on the flight button. Moreover, it remains stable in the air ad that will help you in attaining some good shots with the camera. There is one more button available for calling the drone back to the controller.
Is It Worth Buying Yuneec Breeze 4K Drone?
Absolutely yes, buying Yuneec Breeze 4K Drone is a fair deal if you don’t have the money to buy a DJI Mavic, the drone will not disappoint you in any way, and you can learn to fly it in a few minutes. Overall, if you are a beginner, then Yuneec Breeze 4K Drone is what you should buy.
- Compact
- Automated flight modes
- Easy to fly
- One-touch landing
- Less flying time
2. Parrot Bebop 2 Drone – Best Alternative to DJI Spark
Undoubtedly, DJI Spark is an awesome drone, but it comes attached to a hefty price tag. With Parrot Bebop 2, you will get comparable performance, and you will surely love to buy this drone. It is a compact drone and comes loaded with 3-axis image stabilization for better photography.
Specifications:
| Flight Time (Approximately) | 25 minutes |
| Weight | 1.1 lb. |
| Charging Time (Approximately) | 55 Minutes |
| Dimensions | 15 x 3.5 x 12.9 inches |
| Controller Type | Parrot Skycontroller 2 |
| Flight Range | 1900 meters |
| Camera | 1080P, 14 MP |
What Makes Parrot Bebop Best Alternative to DJI Spark?
Parrot Bebop 2 is a smart drone that has some exceptional features like LED flash for better visibility during the dark. Also, the flight time is 15-minutes, so you don’t have to charge the batteries multiple times to fly the drone.
Superb Flight Range:
The flight range of Parrot Bebop 2 is around 1.2 miles so that you can use it for various purposes. Whether you are a spy, or you need a drone just for entertainment, you can buy Parrot Bebop 2.
Digital Image Stabilization:
There is a common problem with drones that the image gets distorted as the drone keeps on moving in the air. Buy with Parrot Bebop 2. There is no such issue. The digital image stabilization feature will keep the images stable. Need it for photography? Buy it right now before it runs out of stock.
Wide Angle Camera:
The camera attached to Parrot Bebop 2 has a wide-angle, which means that you will get a good view of the surroundings without maneuvering the camera. Also, the drone has longer battery life around 25 minutes, and built-in memory in case you don’t have an external storage card handy.
Is It Worth Buying Parrot Bebop 2 Drone?
We are not saying that DJI Spark is a bad drone as compared to Parrot Bebop 2. But when you are getting equally accessible features for a low price, then it is a better deal. Parrot Bebop 2 has everything you need from a good camera to ultimate stability and smooth flight, so it is a rewarding deal.
- Lightweight
- Digital image stabilization
- Fisheye lens
- Fast charging
- Long-lasting battery
- Low built-in memory
3. UPair One Plus 4K Drone– Best Alternative to DJI Phantom 3 Standard
So you are planning to buy DJI Phantom 3 Standard? If yes, then we suggest you take a look at this fantastic drone that gives a neck-to-neck competition to DJI Phantom 3 Standard. The drone is huge in size as Phantom 3 and has a separate camera for better image capturing. Also, it is compatible with Android and iPhone devices so you can get it irrespective of the smartphone you are using.
Specifications:
| Flight Time (Approximately) | 18 minutes |
| Weight | 2.8 lb. |
| Charging Time (Approximately) | 90 Minutes |
| Dimensions | 15 x 3.5 x 12.9 inches |
| Controller Type | RC Controller with Smartphone Holder |
| Flight Range | 800 meters |
| Camera | 2.7K, 9 MP |
What Makes UPAIR One Plus 4K Best Alternative DJI Phantom 3 Standard?
UPAIR One Plus 4K comes with GPS so you will get a track of where your drone is flying. Also, the durable drone can withstand harsh weather and can deliver a decent lifespan to you. The 2-axis gimbal will help you in controlling the camera better, so you can take some good shots.
2.7K HD Camera:
The 2.7K HD camera may not be superior to DJI Phantom’s 4 K camera, but it can get you some good pictures and videos. The camera comes attached with a 2-axis gimbal so you can maneuver it in the air with ease. Also, the CMOS Panasonic Image Sensor will improve the quality of images with the 9 MP camera.
GPS Auto Return:
Whether the drone is under your control or it has gone somewhere far, you can call it back with one button. The auto return will take the drone back to the user if it detects a low battery or any other issue. Moreover, you can press the key to get the drone back to you.
Altitude Hold:
With the altitude hold mode, you can fly the drone on a specific height and speed. It is just like setting the drone on autopilot. The powerful brushless motor makes it possible for the drone to hover in the air with ease.
Is It Worth Buying UPAIR One Plus 4K Drone?
If you have a limited budget, then UPAIR One Plus 4K is a good option for you. The drone is a complete package and comes with a controller with a display. Also, the drone has GPS, so flying it won’t be that hard as you can call it back anytime.
- Failsafe features
- Brushless motor offers immense power to the rotors
- Intuitive controller
- Excellent first-person view FPV
- 2-axis gimbal
- The camera could be better
4. Autel X Star Premium- Best Alternative DJI Phantom
Autel X Star Premium is emerging as the best alternative to DJI Phantom, and the significant reason is the camera and the star positioning system. The drone is big as DJI Phantom, but you will love flying it even if you have just started flying drones. The color of the drone makes it easily visible from a distance, and you will get a complete view of your smartphone’s screen every time.
Specifications:
| Flight Time (Approximately) | 25 minutes |
| Weight | 1.85 lb. |
| Charging Time (Approximately) | 60 Minutes |
| Dimensions | 19.5 x 19.5 x 8.5 inches |
| Controller Type | Intuitive RC Controller |
| Flight Range | 1900 meters |
| Camera | 4K HD, 12 MP |
What Makes Autel X Star Best Alternative DJI Phantom?
Autel X Star Premium is a professional level drone that comes with Glonass for outdoor navigation. Also, the intuitive remote controller will let you control the drone with ultimate ease, and you can learn to fly it in some minutes. It is a complete package of fun and performance combined with HD camera and GPS.
4K Camera:
The camera of this drone is superior, and you can record 4K videos with it. Also, the gimbal is removable so you can remove it whenever needed to make the drone even lighter. The FOV of the camera is 108-degree, and it can record videos in multiple resolutions based on your needs.
Fast Recharging Time:
The battery charger quickly, and it is one of the biggest plus points of the Autel X Star Premium Drone. You can recharge the battery in around 1 hour, and the drone will get ready to fly again. The charger and other accessories are available with the drone itself.
Multiple Flight Modes:
You can use the drone on multiple flight modes, including follow-me, orbit, and much more, which are ideal for flying and recording at the same time. You can choose any of these modes using the mobile app.
Excellent Flight Range:
The flight range of Autel X Star Premium is around 1.2 miles, and you can fly it without worrying about losing control. Also, the drone comes with a high-quality carry case, and you can take it anywhere with you.
Is It Worth Buying Autel X Star Premium Drone?
If you want to record high definition videos with a drone, then Autel X Star Premium should be your choice. The camera is removable, and it will make the drone even lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Excellent flying distance
- Built-in GPS
- Reasonable battery life
- Crash-proof design
- The landing gear is not that great
- No sensors to avoid obstacles
5. Geniusidea 4K Follow Drone – Best Alternative to DJI Spark
Geniusidea 4K Follow Drone is a good buy against DJI Spark. This drone is ultra stable, and you can control it with added ease. Moreover, the ultra-sonic sensors protect the drone from colliding into any objects, and it will make flying it more fun.
Specifications:
| Flight Time (Approximately) | 20 minutes |
| Weight | 9.6oz. |
| Charging Time (Approximately) | 180 Minutes |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 2 x 6.3 inches |
| Controller Type | App and Smartphone |
| Flight Range | 100 meters |
| Camera | 4K, 13 MP |
What Makes Geniusidea 4K Follow Drone Best Alternative DJI Spark?
There are a few things that make Geniusidea 4K Follow Drone the best alternative to DJI Spark. You will get some good features like follow-me and long-lasting batteries. The drone is light in weight, and flying it is as easy as flying DJI Spark.
Super Cool Camera:
The camera of this little drone is 13 MP, and you can record 4K videos with it. However, the camera doesn’t come with any stabilization so that you will get some distortions in the video and pictures, but that is acceptable at this price point.
Superiorly Stable:
The foremost feature of a drone is its stability, and you will get good stability with Geniusidea 4K Follow Drone. There are multiple built-in sensors that keep the drone stable in the air, even in speedy winds.
- Affordable
- Easy to fly
- Built-in stabilization sensors
- Slow
- No image stabilization
6. GoPro Karma with HERO5 Black – Best Alternative to DJI Phantom 4
DJI Phantom 4 is a powerful drone and is the only choice of professional drone flyers. The drone is massive, and so are the specs, it comes with a motorized gimbal that will help you in maneuvering the camera with added ease.
Specifications:
| Flight Time (Approximately) | 20 minutes |
| Weight | 12. Pounds |
| Charging Time (Approximately) | 60 Minutes |
| Dimensions | 5.9 x 17.3 x 11.8 inches |
| Controller Type | Touchscreen Controller |
| Flight Range | 3000 meters |
| Camera | 4K Ultra-HD, 12 MP |
What Makes GoPro Karma Best Alternative DJI Phantom 4?
GoPro manufactured world-class action cameras and drones, and you can find it by using this drone. It comes equipped with a Hero 5 Black, and you will surely get the best shots you need in your album. Also, the drone is compact than Phantom 4, so there will be fewer chances of colliding with any object.
Superfast Action Camera:
Other drones have regular cameras, whereas GoPro Karma comes equipped with a GoPro Hero 5. The camera will capture everything in detail, and you will get superior videos with ultra-HD quality.
Smooth as the Breeze:
The drone flies smoothly, and you will surely love how easily it goes into the air and flies against strong wind currents. Also, the gimbal stabilizes the camera, for better maneuverability even in the nighttime.
Built-in GPS:
As it is a DJI Phantom 4 level drone, therefore, you will get GPS support in it. The drone will come back to the controller after you press the return home button. Overall, flying this drone will reward you with an unforgettable experience, and you will never regret buying it in place of DJI Phantom 4.
- Excellent after-sales service
- Action camera loaded with features
- Highly advanced controls
- Built-in display in the controller
- Obstacle avoidance is missing
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q 1.) Are there any other drones available except Autel X Star Premium, as an alternative of DJI Phantom?
Ans: Yes, definitely, you also can choose among Upair One Plus 4K and GoPro Karma; these are the top-notch performance providing drones available in the market.
Q 2.) Can I buy any separate batteries for the drones?
Ans: Most drone manufacturers sell separate batteries so that the users can increase the flight time. You can search for the specific battery on www.Amazon.com, and you will get it for sure.
Final Thoughts:
These drones are the best alternatives to DJI drones in 2020. Getting any of these will make you a pro flyer, as you can control them easily. We will keep you updated about other top-rated DJI drone alternatives available in the market so that you can get a drone at an affordable price.
Myself Faran, Author and founder of this blog, since my childhood I was so fascinated about drones and their features that make them very important devices in various fields like search and rescue, surveillance, traffic monitoring, weather monitoring, firefighting, personal use, drone-based photography, videography.