Mini drones with cameras share a majority of the drone market. Mini drones in particular have always been a popular choice for beginner drone pilots, professional drone fliers and content creators. However, with such a range of mini drones with cameras available, it can be hard to choose the right one for you and your needs.
In this guide, we’ll compare the best mini drones with cameras in 2023. We delve into the DJI drones that are dominating the market with their range of options, as well as DJI alternatives such as the Autel EVO Nano.
Why buy mini drones with cameras?
Mini drones with cameras are a great way to enter the drone community or boost your photography skills. With beginner-friendly functions, a wealth of features and high-quality output, mini drones appeal to both beginner and experienced drone pilots at affordable prices.
Mini drones have an easy-to-use interface that doesn’t overwhelm a beginner drone pilot.
Weighing under 250 g, mini drones all are placed in the safest weight category which is the most flexible in terms of legal restrictions as they can operate in the Open Category A1. Mini drones are ideal for beginners who don’t wish to take on a bulky drone like the Mavic Air 2S with stricter restrictions or the need to pass a drone certification.
Moreover, they are incredibly lightweight drones. Easy to take everywhere thanks to their compactibility and portability – extremely travel-friendly.
Check out our tips on how to make money with drones.
Best all-round drone with camera: DJI Mini 3 Pro
Without further ado, the best all-round mini drone on the market in 2023 is the DJI Mini 3 Pro. Boasting more features than its former Mini 3 model, the Pro is an excellent option for those looking for a slick yet professional drone. Ideal for both beginners and professional pilots.
Building on the success of the DJI Mavic Mini, and Mini 2, the Mini 3 Pro maintains under 240 g weight, and achieves a maximum flight time of 34 minutes and hover time of 30 minutes. It is able to shoot video in 4K / 60 fps, an upgrade from its predecessor drone. There is the option for a Plus battery where you can upgrade the maximum flight time up to 47 minutes. However, the Plus battery is only available in selected countries, excluding EU countries and the UK.
Content creators will benefit from the DJI Mini 3 Pro as it offers True Vertical Shooting. This allows portrait-shaped imagery and videos to be captured from the drone lens which is ideal for Instagram posts.
Thanks to its DJI O3 transmission system, HD video can be streamed over distances up to 12km. It also has a 4x zoom camera so you can capture distanced shots without impacting image quality.
What makes the DJI Mini 3 Pro extra ideal for beginners is its Tri-Directional Obstacle Avoidance. Meaning the drone has sensors forward, backward and downward sensing system so any risks of collision are minimised.
The DJI Mini 3 Pro is ideal for beginners learning the ropes, content creators, and even commercial drone pilots. The compactibility of the drone and its exceptional video and image quality make this drone more than ideal for commercial use – anywhere from wedding photography to roof inspections.
DJI Mini 3 Pro Specs
The mini-sized, mega-capable DJI Mini 3 Pro is just as powerful as it is portable. Weighing less than 249 g and with upgraded safety features, it’s not only regulation-friendly, it’s also the safest in its series. With a 1/1.3-inch sensor and top-tier features, it redefines what it means to fly Mini.
Here’s a table showing the specs for the DJI Mini 3 Pro:
| Specification | DJI Mini 3 Pro |
| Take off weight | < 249 g |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | Folded: 145×90×62 mm Unfolded (with propellers): 251×362×70 mm |
| Flight time | 34 minutes |
| Max flight distance | 18 km |
| Max speed | 16 m/s |
| Wind resistance | 10.7 m/s |
| Camera | 1/1.3-inch CMOS Effective Pixels: 48 MP |
| Transmission | DJI O3 |
| Video resolution | 4K: 3840×2160 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps; 2.7K: 2720×1530 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps; FHD: 1920×1080 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps; Slow Motion: 1920×1080 @ 120 fps |
| Compatible controllers | DJI RC-N1; DJI RC; DJI RC Pro; DJI RC Motion 2 |
What we like and what we don’t
- Supports vertical shooting
- Multiple options for remote controller
- Option for an extended battery should be standard
- No sideways obstacle avoidance
Best premium drone with camera: DJI Mini 4 Pro
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a beginner-friendly mini drone capable of producing 4K/60fps HDR videos. Safety is ensured with the upgraded omnidirectional obstacle sensing system. Weighs under 250 g and allows extensive flight times up to 34 minutes.
If you’re looking to go a little more upmarket towards high-end professional drones, then the DJI Mini 4 is the newest Mini DJI drone on the market.
Released in September 2023, the DJI Mini 4 Pro racked up in popularity.
It holds a lot of the same qualities as the DJI Mini 3 Pro, with no differences in camera quality or flight time. However, the DJI Mini 4 Pro does outshine with a higher resolution camera producing up to 4K HDR video at 60 fps – compared to 4K HDR video at 30 fps in the Mini 3 Pro.
Mini drones boast themselves as beginner-friendly drones with exceptional obstacle avoidance systems and flight stability. The Mini 4 Pro goes one step further with this with its omnidirectional obstacle detection system – having sensors forward, backward, lateral, upward and downward. As well as a 3D infrared sensor at the bottom of the aircraft.
Equipped with four wide-angle vision sensors and two downward vision sensors, the device proficiently detects obstacles in every direction. Enhanced safety is further ensured through the integration of Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS), which facilitate automatic braking and bypassing during flight for a worry-free experience.
DJI Mini 4 Pro Specs
Here’s a table showing the specs for the DJI Mini 4 Pro:
| Specification | DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Take off weight | < 249 g |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | Folded (without propellers): 148×94×64 mm Unfolded (with propellers): 298×373×101 mm |
| Flight time | 34 minutes |
| Max flight distance | 18 km |
| Max speed | 16 m/s |
| Wind resistance | 10.7 m/s |
| Camera | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP |
| Transmission | O4 |
| Video resolution | H.264/H.2654K: 3840×2160 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60/100 fps; FHD: 1920×1080 @24/25/30/48/50/60/100*/200 fps |
| Compatible controllers | DJI RC2; DJI RC-N2 |
What we like and what we don’t
- Supports vertical shooting
- Multiple options for remote controller
- Option for an extended battery should be standard
- No sideways obstacle avoidance
Best budget drone with camera: DJI Mini 2
The DJI Mini 2 SE is one of the smallest and lightest drones available. Weighing under 249 grams, the Mini 2 SE boasts 31 minutes of flight time and flight speeds up to 36 mph. A beginner-friendly drone with plenty of cool features to capture epic aerial shots.
For all budget purposes, the DJI Mini 2 is still up there as a top-end professional drone. With beginner-friendly features, and an attractive price option.
Packed with intelligent flight features such as Dronie, Orbit and Rocket, the DJI Mini 2 is a great travel companion for capturing aerial shots and footage.
Not only does it boast 31 minutes of flight time and 4K video footage, but the Mini 2 offers most of the features also offered from its upgrades – such as AEB Bracketing, zoom and panoramic shots.
The 4K is more than enough to grab you some amazing shots and footage from the air.
It’s a fantastic budget option, starting from £309 for the drone and £439 for the Fly More Combo.
The Mini 2 offers a Fly More Combo at an affordable price to ensure you get all the extras and accessories you need to complete your drone package. The bundle includes a charging hub to store your batteries, extra batteries, and a case to securely travel with.
Curious why the DJI Mini 2 is still a great option to buy a drone in 2023? Read our article on why the DJI Mini 2 is still the best beginner drone of 2023.
DJI Mini 2 Specs
Here’s a table showing the specs for the DJI Mini 2:
| Specification | DJI Mini 2 |
| Take off weight | < 249 g |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | Folded: 138×81×58 mm Unfolded (with propellers): 245×289×56 mm |
| Flight time | 31 minutes |
| Max flight distance | 15.7 km |
| Max speed | 16 m/s |
| Wind resistance | 8.5 – 10.5 m/s |
| Camera | 1/2.3” CMOS Effective Pixels: 12 MP |
| Transmission | OccuSync 2.0 |
| Video resolution | 4K: 3840×2160 @ 24/25/30 fps; 2.7K: 2720×1530 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps; FHD: 1920×1080 @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps |
What we like and what we don’t
- RAW and JPEG photos
- Quality 4K camera
- Doesn’t support vertical shooting
- No ActiveTrack modes
Check out DJI Mini 2 photography tips.
Best DJI alternative drone with camera: Autel Robotics EVO Nano+
Autel EVO Nano+ includes a 1/1.28 inch camera, allowing for 4K footage and 48-megapixel shots. Its HDR mode enables the capture of quality and detail in low-light conditions. Weights only 249 g and offers 28 minutes flight time. The EVO Nano+ bundle ensures you’re provided with the essential accessories, spares and carrying kit.
Looking away from DJI and more towards alternatives to DJI. The Autel EVO Nano+ is a great option for those wanting a great mini drone with camera, but don’t wish to purchase DJI.
The Autel Evo Nano+ drone brings a 1/1.28-inch (0.8-inch) camera, delivering 4K footage and 48-megapixel stills. Its RYYB colour filter array design enhances image quality in low-light conditions, while the 90° adjustable 4K HDR camera provides extra flexibility when capturing Ultra HD pictures. This is reflected by the reduced noise in low-light images.
The drone boasts a 3-axis gimbal to reduce vibration, ensuring smooth and stable footage during flights that lasts up to 28 minutes.
Its three-way obstacle avoidance system with a total of six computer vision sensors and an ultrasonic sensor for precision hovering. The advanced obstacle avoidance system sets it apart from competitors, making it an ideal choice for new drone pilots.
Flight modes including Rocket, Fade Away, Orbit, and Flick, allow pilots to easily create cinematic shots with minimal effort.
The Autel Evo Nano+ Premium Bundle includes essential accessories, such as spare propellers, flight batteries, a 64GB SD card, a propeller holder, and a shoulder bag.
Autel Robotics EVO Nano+ Specs
Here’s a table showing the specs for the Autel EVO Nano+:
| Specification | Autel Robotics EVO Nano+ |
| Take off weight | 249 g |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | Folded: 142×94×55 mm Unfolded: 260×325×55 mm |
| Flight time | 28 minutes |
| Max flight distance | 10 km |
| Max speed | 15 m/s |
| Wind resistance | 10 m/s |
| Camera | 1/2 inch CMOS Effective pixels: 48 MP |
| Transmission | Autel SkyLink |
| Video resolution | 4K @ 30/25/24 fps; 2.7K @ 30/25/24 fps; FHD @ 24/25/30/48/50/60 fps |
| Compatible controllers | EVO Nano RC |
What we like and what we don’t
- Various flight modes
- Quality 4K camera
- 4K video is only up to 30 fps
- Raw photos can be difficult to process
Best stock drone with camera: Potensic ATOM SE
Weighing under 249 g, the Potensic Atom SE is a beginner-friendly drone. Runs a flight time of 31 minutes, offering Follow Me and Waypoint intelligent flight features.
This is another great alternative to DJI drones and makes the list of best drones with cameras.
Weighing only 249 g, the Potensic Atome SE is designed for portability. The small size doesn’t hinder its ability for wind resistance as it can provide resilience up to Level 5 winds. Furthermore, the drone features ShakeVanish technology which is designed to enhance camera stability in windy conditions so you can still achieve still and smooth shots.
The Potensic camera has a 4K EIS camera, ranging from +20° to -90°, which can capture 12-megapixel photos and record 4K / 30fps HD videos. Photos can be captured in both JPEG and raw in a 16:9 ratio rather than 4:3.
The Potensic Atom covers pilots of all abilities and features a Beginner flight mode for first fliers. Alongside three other flight modes: Video, Normal, and Sport for flexible flying and control. And you can experience up to 31 minutes of flight time, with various flight modes such as Follow Me and Waypoint Flight.
There is less flexibility in the camera controls than DJI offers. For example, you can’t adjust the ISO or shutter speed like you would on a DJI drone, but this means fewer settings to play with. An ideal choice for beginners who want the simplicity to grab shots with minimal effort.
Another cool thing about the Atom SE is its ability to capture FPV-style footage with its tilted camera and flight mechanics.
What’s nice is there are three choice options to choose from when you purchase the Potensic Atom SE. You can choose to buy just the drone and basic kit. The expansion kit gives you a little extra kit such as a carrying bag and extra battery. Or you can go all out with the Fly More Combo, giving you spare screws and propellors, and even charging cables.
Potensic Atom SE Specs
Here’s a table showing the specs for the Potensic Atom SE:
| Specification | Potensic Atom SE |
| Take off weight | 249 g |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | Folded: 143x88x58 mm Unfolded: 152x210x58 mm |
| Flight time | 31 minutes |
| Max flight distance | 4 km |
| Max speed | 16 m/s |
| Wind resistance | Level 5 |
| Camera | Effective pixels: 12MP, 4608*2592 |
| Transmission | PixSync 2.0 |
| Video resolution | 4K @ 30fps; 2.7K @ 30fps; 1080P @ 60fps; 1080P @ 30fps |
What we like and what we don’t
- Beginner-friendly drone for first fliers
- 4K camera with crisp quality
- Limited camera control
- No obstacle avoidance
FAQs: Best Mini Drones with Cameras
What are the easiest drones with cameras to fly?
The easiest drones with cameras to fly are the DJI Mini series drones. The Mini series boasts beginner-friendly features, safety systems, as well as interactive flight tutorials.
However, Autel Robotics drones are an equal alternative offering similar qualities and features.
What is the best quality drone with camera?
Out of the DJI Mini series drones, the best quality drone with camera available is the DJI Mini 4 Pro. Released in September 2023, the Mini 4 Pro has a 4K camera and is capable of producing 4K/60fps HDR. A more affordable option drone with camera is the DJI Mini 3 Pro, boasting very similar qualities and able to record 4K/60fps.
Do I need a licence to fly drones with cameras?
Even if your drone weighs under 250g, drones with cameras need to be registered with the local or national aviation authority. However, you will need to check with your relevant aviation authorities to learn what the rules are for flying a drone with camera in your area.
