I have been getting more into drones and am thinking about getting a Part 107 license so I can do some photography work on the side. While saving up for a better drone, I want to practice my flying skills. Right now, I have an older drone I bought from Walmart, the F194 GPS Drone with 4K Camera. The controller feels cheap, and the software it uses is frustrating. Can I replace the drone’s receiver or upgrade the controller to avoid using its app? Also, is there any way to use a VR headset with this drone after making changes?
You might want to check forums or guides for drone modifications. Upgrading a Walmart drone can be tricky since these drones often use proprietary parts. It’s worth looking at hobby shops or asking experienced drone users for advice.
There are a few types of drones you should know about:
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Entry-level drones: These are cheap drones like yours, good for beginners to learn how to fly without worrying about crashes. They’re not professional-grade, but they get the job done for practice.
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FPV drones: These are for flying with goggles, doing tricks, and enjoying a more hands-on experience. If you’re into building and programming, consider this option. DJI has prebuilt FPV options like the DJI Avata 2.
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Camera drones: These work like a flying camera tripod, staying stable in the air. A Mavic Air 2 is a great option for commercial photography and pairs well with a Part 107 license.
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Commercial drones: These are the expensive ones used for specific jobs, like spraying fields or search and rescue.
Your drone falls in the entry-level category, so upgrades may be limited.
@Raleigh
I mostly agree with this, but I wouldn’t call entry-level drones junk. They’re great for beginners who want to learn flying without risking expensive gear. They may not be professional tools, but they’re perfect for getting started and practicing before moving on to more advanced drones.
Most drones have their receivers built into the main board, so replacing them isn’t usually an option. It’s designed this way to keep things proprietary. You might want to reach out to the manufacturer’s support team to confirm what’s possible with your model.
If you’re interested in FPV flying, consider getting a Radio Master Boxer controller. It works with PC simulators like Liftoff and DRL, which can help you practice flying skills even without upgrading your current drone.
With drones like DJI models or your Walmart drone, upgrades like changing the receiver aren’t possible. These drones are designed as-is, and you won’t be able to connect them to VR goggles or make major modifications.