The Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon Quadcopter offers some unique options in the under $1000 price range (Its MSRP is $1449, but it is currently selling for $959). With a removable camera that can be used on the ground, and several built in safety features, this quad has much to offer.
A large drone, the Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon Quadcopter weighs 2.5 lbs and measures 22.2 in. x 16.5 in. x 9.4 in. It can be purchased with a case and an extra battery, however users report that the case it comes with is awkward and difficult to transport, so you may want to invest in a case of your own choosing.
The extra 5,400 mAh lithium polymer battery comes in handy, however, as the battery takes 2 hours to recharge and the battery charger can get very hot. A positive feature is that the charger comes with a cigarette lighter adapter so that you can attach it in a car. On one battery charge, you can get up to 22 minutes of flight time, but with the camera attached that will be reduced.
GPS, Flight Modes, & Speed
The built-in GPS assists with flying and tracking this drone. The FAA compliant No Fly Zone feature makes sure you stay within federal regulations while flying and prevents flying higher than 400 feet from ground. With the smart circle, the drone will only take off and land at least 26 feet away from the operator. You will want to help guide the landing, because while this drone will make every effort not to harm you or crash into you, it may crash into other obstacles in the process. Max speed is 22 mph for this drone.
There are three modes available for flight. Smart mode is designed for beginners. The drone will move in the same direction you push the control sticks, regardless of where the front of the drone is facing. This mode also allows for automated flight control such as a Follow Me and Watch Me feature which enable taking selfie videos and having the drone follow you wherever you go. Angle mode moves the drone based on where the nose is pointing. Home mode returns the Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon Quadcopter to the location of the controller. In all three modes, it flies much more quietly than other drones.
The controller allows you to fly and land the drone as well as control the camera. It provides updates on battery life, flight altitude and distance, speed, and GPS location.
Camera and Video Specs.
The Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon Quadcopter comes with a 3-axis gimbal camera that can take 12 MP photos and 4K/30fps ultra high definition video (4x higher than regular HD). This is one of the better drones with a professional-grade camera, and you also have the option of recording 1080p/120fps slow motion video. You can control video resolution, white balance, and light exposure. Still images are captured in JPG or Raw DNG. The steady grip handheld device allows you to use the camera on the ground. You can adjust the gimbal via the remote, but there is a short delay in response time. Users also report that the edges of the video frame can become blurry.
For those who place a high priority on safety and would like the option of a removable camera, the Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon Quadcopter may be the perfect fit.
Other drones in the mid-price range that we recommend are the DJI Phantom 3 Standard (review) and DJI Phantom 3 Advanced (review).
Author: Stacey Miller
Copyright: 2016 BestDronesToBuy.org