My 8-year-old saw a Sky Viper Nova Light FX Drone in a Boy Scout magazine and now wants it from Santa. It’s a $50 toy and within our budget. We have a park nearby where he could fly it safely.
But is this a good choice? Are cheap drones just impossible to fly? Will it crash and break immediately? Should we spend more and get something like a Tello instead?
I remember my brother wrecking an expensive RC plane as a kid, and I’d rather not relive that experience.
You might find a lot of answers to this in the weekly thread on drones. You can check there for suggestions and more detailed advice.
I started flying drones when I was a kid, and I’ve broken so many cheap ones under $100. They don’t last long and are usually frustrating. When I finally got a good one (DJI Avata), it was worth every penny—it’s durable and fun. Maybe look at flying toys or something more robust to start with.
@Chen
Thanks for your advice, that’s helpful .
Cheap drones can be hit or miss. They’re fun but break easily. Maybe consider alternatives like RC cars or other flying toys that aren’t as fragile.
Kingsley said:
Cheap drones can be hit or miss. They’re fun but break easily. Maybe consider alternatives like RC cars or other flying toys that aren’t as fragile.
RC cars are a solid option, and they’re generally less likely to break than drones.
@Caden
We already have a bunch of RC cars, so he’s looking for something new and exciting.
Kingsley said:
Cheap drones can be hit or miss. They’re fun but break easily. Maybe consider alternatives like RC cars or other flying toys that aren’t as fragile.
My kid has the same Sky Viper drone, and it holds up well to crashes. For the price, it’s pretty sturdy.
Kingsley said:
Cheap drones can be hit or miss. They’re fun but break easily. Maybe consider alternatives like RC cars or other flying toys that aren’t as fragile.
At the end of the day, kids want to see something actually fly. A simulator might not hold their attention.
@Jessie
The idea of a simulator is nice, but for an 8-year-old, they’ll probably want the real thing. Maybe get a cheap drone for now and a simulator as a backup.
Lin said:
@Jessie
The idea of a simulator is nice, but for an 8-year-old, they’ll probably want the real thing. Maybe get a cheap drone for now and a simulator as a backup.
That’s fair, but I still think most kids that age would be disappointed with only a simulator. A simple, affordable drone might work as a test run.
@Jessie
If that’s the case, set clear expectations. Something like, ‘If you enjoy this and take care of it, we can upgrade later.’
Kingsley said:
Cheap drones can be hit or miss. They’re fun but break easily. Maybe consider alternatives like RC cars or other flying toys that aren’t as fragile.
Simulators are great for learning, but kids often lose interest if it’s not hands-on.
I had a Sky Viper once. It was fun but got stuck in a tree after a couple of flights. If you’re looking for something more durable, maybe try a Blade Inductrix. It’s good for indoor flying and easier to control.
@Storm
Appreciate the recommendation, I’ll check it out .
Check out some YouTube reviews. There are budget drones that hold position well, but they’re often sold online. Amazon might be the best option since returns are straightforward if it doesn’t work out.
Drones are easier than RC planes but still tricky for beginners. Avoid flying on windy days, and stick to open areas. Expect some crashes—it’s part of learning. Maybe find a no-frills drone to practise on before upgrading.
@Wylie
Would a lightweight drone like this easily knock over things indoors, or is it safer than I think?
I got a cheap drone years ago, and it was surprisingly easy to fly. They’ve probably improved even more since then. Lightweight ones tend to survive crashes better too.
