In a perfect world, what would your dream drone have...?

Getting Started Topics Drone Regulations
1

If there were no weight limits, cost constraints, or pesky regulations, what features would you want in a drone? Here’s my wishlist:

  1. LIDAR on the front, bottom, and back, plus visual sensors in all directions.
  2. A bigger battery—at least 1 hour of flight time.
  3. A large 1-inch sensor with variable aperture for better low-light shots.
  4. Waterproof, dustproof, and even capable of underwater operation.
  5. A crazy 50km range.
  6. Proper full HDR flat profile for maximum video detail.
  7. Cooling fans to prevent overheating in hot weather.
  8. The ability to float on water for easy recovery.
  9. A bright safety beacon.
  10. Extreme wind resistance for stability in any condition.

What would you add?

2

Okay, if we’re dreaming big, here’s my ultimate drone:

  • Full 360° LIDAR.
  • 1-hour battery.
  • 35mm Z-mount lens with RAW recording and dual NVMe slots.
  • 5G connectivity with programmable flight routes.
  • Fully weather-sealed.
  • Thermal, night vision, and standard cameras with 0.7x, 1x, 3x, and 7x optical zoom.
  • Laser-guided anti-tank missiles (you know, for science).
  • Upside-down mode so I can mow my lawn.
  • 250lb payload so I can fly myself to work.
  • Active camouflage and silent propellers so I can drop dog turds on my neighbor.
  • Dog-walking mode.
  • Three cupholders with adjustable grips for different-sized drinks.

I think that covers it. :joy:

3

@Macon
You forgot intercontinental missile capabilities. :laughing:

4

Honestly, I don’t get the hype around LIDAR. I do commercial work with a Mavic 3 Pro and fly in some tight spots, but I’ve never needed it. It feels like one of those features people want just because it sounds high-tech.

Sure, it’s better than basic obstacle sensors, but I think too many folks get caught up in features instead of actually learning how to take good photos. Some people will buy the Mavic 4 for LIDAR and still take worse shots than a Mini 2 user who actually knows what they’re doing.

5

Most of these features already exist… just not for us. Regulations are the biggest limitation, so my wish list is simple:

  1. Remove most drone regulations.
6

For #7… what do you think the propellers do? :joy:

Also, this drone will never exist.

7

Cairo said:
For #7… what do you think the propellers do? :joy:

Also, this drone will never exist.

Actually, overheating is a real issue. My DJI drone has overheated mid-flight in Florida and stopped responding to controls. Scary stuff.

8

@Ren
Really? I fly in Puerto Rico all the time and have never had a temperature warning.

9

Cairo said:
@Ren
Really? I fly in Puerto Rico all the time and have never had a temperature warning.

My Air 2 overheated twice, but my Air 3 seems to handle heat better. No issues so far.

10

@Ren
Huh, interesting. I’ve flown the Mini 2, Mavic 3 Pro, and Avata 2 and never had a problem—except in freezing temps.

11

I just want a drone that lets me mount my own DSLR. A true flying camera, not some fixed-lens system. Is that too much to ask, DJI?!

12

Ren said:
I just want a drone that lets me mount my own DSLR. A true flying camera, not some fixed-lens system. Is that too much to ask, DJI?!

DJI used to make drones that worked with third-party cameras. I really wish we could have modular drones where we choose the camera.

13

I like your list! The only thing I’d add is a thermal camera and an infrared-sensitive main camera with built-in IR and visible spectrum lights for night flying.

14

I just want a scrolling LED sign underneath. It’ll say, We come in peace.