10 Best Drones under 249g for 2026

The DJI Mini 4K Drone is the best overall pick for a lightweight 4K camera drone, with a listed weight under 249g and up to 31 minutes of flight time. This roundup also includes the Potensic ATOM Drone, Potensic ATOM SE Drone, Holy Stone HS175G Drone, Holy Stone HS360D Drone, SKYROVER X1 Camera Drone, SPECTA Mini Camera Drone, RAIGNV S119 GPS Drone, REDRIE HK33 Camera Drone, and FPV Drone with Camera for Kids Adults.

For the best drones under 249g, compare takeoff weight, flight time, video resolution, and camera stabilization. The Mini 4K records 4K video with a 3-axis gimbal, while its downward-facing sensors don’t provide all-direction obstacle avoidance and it lacks Follow Me tracking.

Flight-time figures are maximums: TechRadar measured an average of over 20 minutes in moderate wind, compared with DJI’s advertised maximum of 31 minutes.

The comparison table covers video resolution, takeoff weight, and flight time.

Contents show

1 Best Drones under 249g Picks

2 DJI Mini 4K Drone

3 Potensic ATOM Drone

4 Potensic ATOM SE Drone

5 Holy Stone HS175G Drone

6 Holy Stone HS360D Drone

7 SKYROVER X1 Camera Drone

8 SPECTA Mini Camera Drone

9 RAIGNV S119 GPS Drone

10 REDRIE HK33 Camera Drone

11 FPV Drone with Camera for Kids Adults

12 DJI Mini 4K Drone

13 Drones under 249g: Key Specs Side by Side

14 Frequently Asked Questions

14.1 Do drones under 250 grams need FAA registration in the United States?

14.2 Do sub-250g drones need Remote ID, TRUST, or Part 107 compliance?

14.3 Can you fly a drone under 250g over people?

14.4 Do extended batteries or propeller guards push a drone over 250g?

14.5 Which under-250g drone has the best camera and obstacle avoidance?

15 Conclusion

16 Sources

Best Drones under 249g Picks

Potensic ATOM Drone		Best for Stabilized Video	Video resolution: 4K/30fps	Takeoff weight: Under 249g	Flight time: 32 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
Potensic ATOM SE Drone		Best for Long Sessions	Video resolution: 4K@30fps	Takeoff weight: Less than 249g	Flight time: 62 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
Holy Stone HS175G Drone		Best for GPS Stability	Video resolution: 4K	Takeoff weight: 249g	Flight time: 60 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
Holy Stone HS360D Drone		Best for Long Runtime	Video resolution: 4K UHD	Takeoff weight: 249g	Flight time: 80 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
SKYROVER X1 Camera Drone		Best for 4K/60fps	Video resolution: 4K/60fps	Takeoff weight: Under 249g		VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
SPECTA Mini Camera Drone		Best for Transmission Range	Video resolution: 4K/30fps	Takeoff weight: Under 249g	Flight time: 31 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
RAIGNV S119 GPS Drone		Best for Screen Control	Video resolution: 4K		Flight time: Up to 75 min	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
REDRIE HK33 Camera Drone		Best for Follow Modes	Video resolution: 4K	Takeoff weight: Under 250g	Flight time: 60–70 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
FPV Drone with Camera for Kids Adults		Best for FPV Learning	Video resolution: 1080P HD	Takeoff weight: Under 249g	Flight time: 30 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis
DJI Mini 4K Drone		Best Overall	Video resolution: 4K UHD	Takeoff weight: Under 249 g	Flight time: 31 minutes	VIEW LATEST PRICE	Read Our Analysis

DJI Mini 4K Drone

The DJI Mini 4K is the clearest pick among the best drones under 249g in this roundup: DJI describes it as under 249g and advertises up to 31 minutes of flight. In moderate wind, TechRadar measured an average flight time of over 20 minutes.

Treat those figures as manufacturer maximums, not expected flight times on every outing. The Mini 4K’s measured average in moderate wind was lower than its advertised maximum, a useful reminder that conditions affect how long you can fly.

For a new pilot, the Mini 4K has a gentle learning curve: DJI Fly tutorials help you learn the controls, while QuickShots provide straightforward automated camera moves. Its stabilized footage also helps keep video smooth. That makes it a practical fit if you want a lightweight drone that can produce polished clips without requiring you to master every camera move yourself.

In good light, the camera captures sharp 4K video. Its limits become more noticeable in dim conditions and high-contrast scenes: TechRadar found weaker low-light performance and dynamic range than on the Mini 3 and Mini 4 Pro. If you often film at dusk or need to retain detail in both bright and shadowed areas, those are trade-offs.

The Mini 4K has downward-facing sensors, rather than all-direction obstacle avoidance, and it doesn’t offer Follow Me tracking. That means you’ll need to manage your route and keep the drone in view instead of relying on it to detect obstacles from every direction or follow you automatically. If obstacle sensing matters more to you than a simpler feature set, the Mini 4 Pro has omnidirectional sensing. The Mini 3 and Mini 4K have downward sensing.

The Mini 4K suits beginners who want guided flight features and sharp daytime video. Tutorials, QuickShots and stabilized footage make it easier to get started, while its sensor setup and tracking limits call for more attention from the pilot. For longer flights, the comparison table gives you the manufacturer’s maximums, while the Mini 4K’s measured result in moderate wind offers a more grounded point of reference.

More Details on Our Top Picks

1. Potensic ATOM Drone

   

   Best for Stabilized Video

   View Latest Price

   For travel creators who need steadier footage, its 3-axis gimbal and 4K camera target stabilized video. The Potensic ATOM records at 4K/30fps and weighs under 249g, with a foldable, compact body for carrying between locations. Its camera sits on a 3-axis gimbal, and the drone offers visual tracking and QuickShots, including Circle and Rocket. A 32-minute flight time gives you room for a longer outing before swapping batteries.

   The foldable frame keeps the ATOM compact to carry, while GPS return-to-home can bring it back to its takeoff point with a tap in the phone app. The standard setup includes one intelligent battery, so longer outings mean planning around that single battery or choosing a multi-battery size. Its transmission range reaches up to 6 km, and the listed video modes suit aerial clips rather than higher-frame-rate slow motion. Its gimbal delivers stabilized 4K footage in a lightweight package.

   Pass on this drone if: you need high-frame-rate slow motion; it records at 4K/30fps.

   • Takeoff weight:Under 249g
   • Video resolution:4K/30fps
   • Camera stabilization:3-Axis gimbal
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:32 minutes
   • Photo resolution:12MP
   • Transmission range:Up to 6KM
   • Portable design:Foldable and compact

2. Potensic ATOM SE Drone

   

   Best for Long Sessions

   View Latest Price

   The fold-up ATOM SE weighs under 249g and fits in a jacket pocket, while GPS supports return to takeoff after signal loss or low battery. Its camera records 4K at 30fps with ShakeVanish stabilization, and the claimed 4km transmission range gives you room to frame distant scenes.

   It supports iOS 11 and Android 7.0 or later, with Micro, USB-C, and Lightning adapter cables for connecting your phone to the remote. One practical snag: camera-related firmware updates require a microSD card, which isn’t included, so have one ready if you plan to update the camera.

   Look elsewhere if: you need to update the camera firmware right away and don’t have a microSD card.

   • Takeoff weight:Less than 249g
   • Video resolution:4K@30fps
   • Camera stabilization:ShakeVanish tech
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:62 minutes
   • Photo resolution:—
   • Transmission range:4km
   • Portable design:Fit in a jacket pocket

3. Holy Stone HS175G Drone

   

   Best for GPS Stability

   View Latest Price

   For GPS-guided 4K camera setups, the HS175G suits flyers who want steadier positioning for aerial footage. Its GPS-assisted return brings it back when the signal is lost, it goes out of range, or the battery is low. The foldable drone weighs 249 g and records in 4K with electronic image stabilization. Its camera tilts up to 90°, and the 120° wide-angle lens takes in a broad view.

   The foldable fuselage and included carrying case make it easier to pack for outdoor flights. Altitude hold and optical flow help steady beginner flights, while one-key takeoff and landing and speed adjustment make basic controls easier. Two batteries provide up to 60 minutes total flight time, so that figure spans more than one battery.

   GPS also supports follow, waypoint, and point-of-interest flight modes. The HS175G is a practical fit for GPS-assisted filming, with its 249 g takeoff weight leaving little allowance for added payload.

   Skip it if: your shots require more than 90° of camera tilt.

   • Takeoff weight:249g
   • Video resolution:4K
   • Camera stabilization:4K EIS
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:60 minutes
   • Photo resolution:—
   • Transmission range:—
   • Portable design:Foldable fuselage

4. Holy Stone HS360D Drone

   

   Best for Long Runtime

   View Latest Price

   Unlike the DJI Mini 4K, the Holy Stone HS360D suits pilots who want longer flights, with two batteries included. It weighs 249 g and offers up to 80 minutes total flight time across both batteries, plus a 6 km image transmission range. Its 4K UHD camera captures 3840×2160 photos, giving you high-resolution stills as well as video.

   The foldable design fits in the included case, while GPS modes include Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, Circle Fly and Auto Return to Home. You can use the Holy Stone app for updates, and a wired remote-to-phone connection supports the live video feed. The 6 km transmission range sets a clear limit on how far the image link reaches, so this drone suits flights where that range is enough.

   Rule it out if: your planned flights require an image transmission range beyond 6 km.

   • Takeoff weight:249g
   • Video resolution:4K UHD
   • Camera stabilization:—
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:80 minutes
   • Photo resolution:3840×2160 photos
   • Transmission range:6KM
   • Portable design:Compact, foldable design

5. SKYROVER X1 Camera Drone

   

   Best for 4K/60fps

   View Latest Price

   Travel creators who want smooth, detailed footage should look at this 4K/60fps-focused drone. The SKYROVER X1 records 4K/60fps HDR video and takes 48MP photos with a 1/1.32-inch sensor. Its 3-axis gimbal helps steady footage, while 360° obstacle sensing supports more controlled flying around obstacles.

   At under 249g, it’s light to pack for hikes and trips. SkyBridge transmission reaches 9.32 miles and provides a 1080p/60fps live view for framing shots.

   You can choose a combo with a 5.5-inch touchscreen remote, so flying and viewing footage don’t require a phone. The screen has 700-nit brightness for outdoor viewing, and smart modes include AI Auto Track and vertical shooting. Battery options include a set with 2 batteries and a charging hub; up to 96 minutes of flight time requires 3 batteries. That extended runtime means carrying multiple batteries, and the listed body measures 5.9 x 3.66 x 2.6 inches.

   Avoid it if: you need 96 minutes of flight time without bringing three batteries.

   • Takeoff weight:Under 249g
   • Video resolution:4K/60fps
   • Camera stabilization:—
   • Obstacle sensing:360° obstacle sensing
   • Flight time:—
   • Photo resolution:48MP
   • Transmission range:9.32 miles
   • Portable design:Under 249g

6. SPECTA Mini Camera Drone

   

   Best for Transmission Range

   View Latest Price

   For travelers who want long-range live viewing, the SPECTA Mini Camera Drone pairs a 6.2-mile transmission claim with lightweight portability. It records 4K/30fps video and has a takeoff weight under 249g, making it suited to trips where carrying a compact drone matters. The drone flies for up to 31 minutes, and one-key takeoff and landing make launches and landings simpler.

   Smart return home is also included. Set options include the Mini, Mini with 3 Batteries, and Mini SE.

   One-key takeoff and landing simplify flight starts and finishes, and smart return home can ease concerns about losing the drone. Its under-249g weight supports travel and hiking, and the dimensions are 9.7 x 11.5 x 2.3 inches. A practical drawback is choosing among three set options: Mini, Mini with 3 Batteries, or Mini SE. The camera records 4K/30fps, and the advertised 6.2-mile transmission gives you a long-range live view for open spaces.

   Pick a different drone if: you need obstacle sensing near trees or buildings.

   • Takeoff weight:Under 249g
   • Video resolution:4K/30fps
   • Camera stabilization:—
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:31 minutes
   • Photo resolution:—
   • Transmission range:6.2-Mile
   • Portable design:Lightweight for travel

7. RAIGNV S119 GPS Drone

   

   Best for Screen Control

   View Latest Price

   Pilots who want screen-based framing may like the RAIGNV S119 GPS Drone’s gray quadcopter design and screen remote. It’s explicitly under 249 g, with GPS, a 4K front camera, and a 12MP photo resolution. Optical flow positioning helps it hover, while GPS supports one-key return, low-battery return, and lost-signal return.

   Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, and Circle Fly add automated flight options for outdoor footage. That combination makes it a contender among the best drones under 249g for pilots who want a screen remote and GPS features.

   The screen remote supports real-time FPV viewing, and you can also connect a smartphone. Up to 2,000 m range gives you room to frame shots at a distance, while the adjustable front camera tilts from 0 to 90 degrees. Three modular batteries provide up to 75 minutes total flight time, with up to 25 minutes per battery.

   Beginners can use speed adjustment and altitude hold, with one-key takeoff and landing for simpler starts and returns. The three-battery setup means you’ll need to swap batteries to reach the full flight time, and the S119’s screen remote is central to its camera-viewing setup.

   Choose another option if: you need one battery to last through a long outdoor filming session.

   • Takeoff weight:—
   • Video resolution:4K
   • Camera stabilization:Optical flow positioning
   • Obstacle sensing:Obstacle sensing
   • Flight time:Up to 75 min
   • Photo resolution:12MP
   • Transmission range:Up to 2000m
   • Portable design:—

8. REDRIE HK33 Camera Drone

   

   Best for Follow Modes

   View Latest Price

   If you want a drone to follow a subject, the REDRIE HK33 suits you with GPS Follow and other guided modes. It also offers Route Planning and Fly Around, so you can set a path or circle a subject. Its 4K camera pairs with a 2-axis gimbal to reduce shaky footage, and the camera angle adjusts remotely through 90°.

   The foldable body and carrying case make it easier to pack, while footage can save to a MicroSD card or sync to your phone. Three rechargeable batteries provide 60–70 minutes total flight time, so that runtime depends on carrying and swapping batteries. The stated weight is under 250g, and video transmission reaches up to 300m. Its 2-axis gimbal is the stabilization system for aerial footage.

   This won’t fit your needs if: you expect 60 minutes or more of flight from one battery.

   • Takeoff weight:Under 250g
   • Video resolution:4K
   • Camera stabilization:2-Axis gimbal
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:60–70 minutes
   • Photo resolution:4K photos
   • Transmission range:300m/985ft
   • Portable design:Foldable body

9. FPV Drone with Camera for Kids Adults

   

   Best for FPV Learning

   View Latest Price

   With a 1080P camera streaming FPV footage to your phone, the PRAGYM suits beginners learning to frame shots from the air. Optical flow positioning helps it hover steadily, while altitude hold, headless mode, and one-key takeoff and landing keep early practice manageable. Its adjustable camera angle gives you control over the view, and 30 minutes of flight time comes from two rechargeable batteries used in sequence.

   Fold the drone for carrying, then use its four propeller guards to protect the propellers during bumps. The controls add three speed modes, trajectory flight, gravity control, gesture photos, and 360-degree flips, so practice can move beyond basic steering. You’ll view live footage on a smartphone, so FPV practice depends on having your phone ready. The under-249g takeoff weight and foldable body suit park or travel sessions, while the two-battery setup splits the full flight allowance across separate packs.

   Skip it if: you want a drone with obstacle sensing for flying around trees or other objects.

   • Takeoff weight:Under 249g
   • Video resolution:1080P HD
   • Camera stabilization:Optical flow positioning
   • Obstacle sensing:—
   • Flight time:30 minutes
   • Photo resolution:—
   • Transmission range:—
   • Portable design:Foldable

10. DJI Mini 4K Drone

    

    Best Overall

    View Latest Price

    The DJI Mini 4K suits you if you want a 4K aerial camera in an under-249 g frame. It records 4K UHD video, uses a 3-axis gimbal to steady footage, and offers up to 31 minutes of flight time with 10 km video transmission. GPS Return to Home, stable hovering, and one-tap takeoff and landing support new pilots. QuickShots include Helix, Dronie, Rocket, Circle, and Boomerang.

    Setup includes the drone, one battery, an RC-N1C controller, and the other listed items for flight. DJI Fly has been removed from Google Play, so Android users need to download the app from DJI’s website. Battery choices include one-, two-, or three-battery sets, with advertised flight times of 31, 62, or 93 minutes. That gives you more flight time by selecting a set with extra batteries.

    Skip it if: you need to install DJI Fly directly from Google Play on an Android device.

    • Takeoff weight:Under 249 g
    • Video resolution:4K UHD
    • Camera stabilization:3-Axis Gimbal
    • Obstacle sensing:—
    • Flight time:31-min
    • Photo resolution:—
    • Transmission range:10km
    • Portable design:Under 249 g

Drones under 249g: Key Specs Side by Side

Here is how the 10 picks line up on takeoff weight, video resolution, camera stabilization, flight time and transmission range. Cells marked with a dash are specs the maker leaves out of its listing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do drones under 250 grams need FAA registration in the United States?

No, a drone weighing less than 250 g generally doesn’t need FAA registration when you fly it only for recreation. If you use it for work or another non-recreational purpose, registration rules differ, so the weight alone doesn’t settle the requirement.

Do sub-250g drones need Remote ID, TRUST, or Part 107 compliance?

Yes, recreational pilots must pass the free TRUST test and carry proof of completion, even when flying a drone under 250 g. Remote ID generally isn’t required for an unregistered recreational drone, while Part 107 applies to non-recreational flights.

Can you fly a drone under 250g over people?

Yes, but being under 250 g alone doesn’t give you permission to fly over people. The flight must meet the FAA’s applicable category requirements, and you must follow other airspace and operating rules; a drone’s weight doesn’t replace those conditions.

Do extended batteries or propeller guards push a drone over 250g?

Yes, an extended battery can push a lightweight drone above 250 g, and the takeoff weight includes the battery and any attached accessories. DJI lists the Mini 4 Pro under 249 g with its standard battery, but over 249 g with its compatible Battery Plus. DJI

Which under-250g drone has the best camera and obstacle avoidance?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is the strongest camera-and-sensing choice in this roundup: it records 4K/60fps HDR and has omnidirectional obstacle sensing. Its standard-battery takeoff weight is under 249 g, while its Battery Plus raises the aircraft above that threshold.

Conclusion

Choose the DJI Mini 4K if you want a lightweight option with guided flight features and stabilized footage for daytime clips. If your priority is longer sessions or a particular camera feature, match that need to the product descriptions above, then decide which trade-off matters most to you. Before you buy, make a shortlist based on how you plan to fly: travel footage, longer outings, or simpler beginner controls.

Sources

1. store.dji.com (store.dji.com)
2. techradar.com (techradar.com)
3. store.dji.com (store.dji.com)
4. dji.com (dji.com)
5. tomsguide.com (tomsguide.com)