Hi everyone, this is my first time posting here so I’m sorry if I mess up. I’m planning to get my partner a drone for Christmas but I’m really struggling to figure out what to buy.
He already has a big FPV drone for outdoors, so I’m thinking of getting him a Cinewhoop for indoor flying since he doesn’t have many legal spots nearby to fly outdoors. Here’s what I know about his current setup:
DJI Goggle V1
TX16S remote
Digital system
I’m looking for something compatible with his equipment, ideally within a £150 budget. I know tiny whoops can be cheaper, but it’s important the drone works with his goggles since he loves POV flying. If I need to find out more details about his setup, I’ll try to sneak in some questions without spoiling the surprise.
Any advice on drones, or even tips on where to buy, would really mean a lot.
If you’re open to analog drones, something like this could work: Happymodel Mobula8 Analog (choose the ELRS version) with cheaper goggles like EV800Ds. This option is still a bit above your budget but might be worth considering.
@Jordan
Oh wow, I didn’t realise they were that expensive when compatible with his setup. I might be able to stretch to £200, but I’d still prefer to keep it lower if possible. Are there good places to find secondhand or refurbished drones?
@Jordan
So with the adapter, I could buy him an analog drone, and it’d work with his goggles? Would his remote still work, or would that need an adapter too?
Ocean said: @Jordan
So with the adapter, I could buy him an analog drone, and it’d work with his goggles? Would his remote still work, or would that need an adapter too?
Yes, the remote should work fine without any extra adapters since it’s not tied to DJI’s system. His setup is open-source, which makes it compatible with a lot of gear. The main issue is that DJI doesn’t have a small enough video transmitter for tiny whoops, but other systems like Walksnail or HDZero do.
Ocean said: @Ash
What’s a video transmitter? I’ve been trying to figure this stuff out but it’s a bit overwhelming!
It’s the part of the drone that sends the video feed to his goggles. Also, the Mobula8 might be a bit big for indoor flying. Something like the BetaFPV Air65 could be a better fit. Just make sure its control protocol matches his remote, which is likely ExpressLRS.
@Ash
I’m not sure how I’d figure out the control protocol without giving away the surprise. Is the Air65 a Cinewhoop? I’ve only heard him mention wanting one but don’t know much else. Is a Cinewhoop just a small drone or something specific?
@Ocean
Cinewhoops are drones designed for smooth indoor flying with protected propellers. They’re great for filming. The Air65 isn’t exactly a Cinewhoop but might still work for him if he’s okay with something lightweight and nimble.
Ocean said: @Jordan
So with the adapter, I could buy him an analog drone, and it’d work with his goggles? Would his remote still work, or would that need an adapter too?
Yeah, his remote should be fine without needing anything extra.
@Ocean
Oh cool, I’m in the UK too. Yeah, shipping might be a bit tricky with some international sites. For drones, you can try eBay or Facebook Marketplace, but the quality can be hit or miss, so I’d recommend caution with secondhand options.
@Jordan
I’m not super familiar with DJI stuff, but someone in my club uses an analog add-on module with their DJI goggles. Would that work for him, and would it be cheaper?
Asher said: @Jordan
I’m not super familiar with DJI stuff, but someone in my club uses an analog add-on module with their DJI goggles. Would that work for him, and would it be cheaper?
That could be perfect! If it means his goggles would work with other drones, it’d open up so many options for him. Thanks for the idea .