I’m thinking of trying out flying drones and need some advice on what setup to go for.
I’m not into recording videos or doing anything cinematic. I just want a fun, first-person flying experience. I don’t want a steep learning curve like with traditional FPV drones. Speed and sharp turns aren’t my thing either. I just want to enjoy flying and looking around.
I was considering the Air 3 with Goggles 3. Can I use this setup with a normal controller, or is the motion controller a must? Would love to hear your thoughts.
Sage said:
You might like the Avata 2. It’s close to what you’re looking for.
Or you could try the original DJI FPV drone.
Just know it’s not going to let you pull off those crazy ACRO tricks you see on YouTube. It’s more like a fast camera drone with sharp turning capabilities. If you try doing stunts like trippy spins, it won’t end well.
@Finley
I started with the DJI FPV. It’s great for sports mode and has a fantastic camera, but I never felt comfortable flying it in manual mode. Repairs are a hassle, and I just didn’t want to deal with that. I’ve crashed mine and still haven’t fixed the landing gear… it’s a pain.
Do you think there’s a specific controller I should get?
Avoid the motion controller if you’re planning to fly other drones in the future.
Here’s what DJI says works with the Avata 2:
‘Hi there. Apart from DJI FPV Controller 2 and DJI FPV Controller 3, DJI Avata 2 is also compatible with the DJI RC Motion 2 and DJI RC Motion 3. Thank you.’
Nico said: @Kit
If you just want simplicity, the motion controller is great. It’s the easiest way to fly a drone, hands down.
The problem is if you want to fly other drones later, you’ll have to relearn with a standard controller. Most experienced users ditch the motion controller after a single try.
A regular FPV drone with GPS and a compass running Betaflight or iNav can work. You can enable altitude hold and position hold, so the drone hovers when you release the controls. Caddx also makes a gimbal for some goggles that lets the camera follow where you look.
The Air 3 with Goggles is fantastic and super fun. The Avata 2 is great for FPV, but it’s more about video than photos. If you’re just getting into FPV, I’d recommend starting with the Avata 2. Then, if you get the Air 3 or Mini 4 Pro later, you already have the goggles.
If you’re looking for a proper camera drone, the Air 3 or Mini 4 Pro would be the way to go. I have both, and they’re a blast with the goggles. Just remember, the experience is different from true FPV.
You could try a budget option. Get a $30 brushless 1S drone from AliExpress or Banggood and add a camera and VTX for another $20-$30. Pair it with goggles like the EV800D for about $90. If you don’t like it, you can resell the goggles and VTX combo for half the price, and give the drone to a kid. It’s affordable, fun, and eco-friendly since nothing goes to waste.