Hi everyone, I’m new to drones and want to try FPV flying. I don’t care about recording video or doing fancy tricks; I just want something fun and easy to fly with a first-person view. I’ve heard the learning curve for traditional FPV drones is steep, and I’m not looking to go fast or make tight turns.
I’ve been considering the Air 3 with Goggles 3. Can I use this setup with a standard controller, or do I need the motion controller? Would love to hear your thoughts!
This seems like a common question here. Check the pinned thread on this forum for recommendations and advice. If this doesn’t answer your question, feel free to ask the mods for clarification.
I’d say the Avata 2 is your best bet for something like this.
Uma said:
I’d say the Avata 2 is your best bet for something like this.
Or you could try the original DJI FPV drone. Just know it’s more like a fast camera drone than a true FPV setup. If you’re expecting to do stunts like the pros, you’ll be disappointed. It’s good for speed and sharp turns, but it’s not made for advanced tricks.
@Lennon
I started with the DJI FPV. It’s great in sports mode and has an amazing camera on a gimbal. But flying it in manual mode can be intimidating because repairs are a hassle. I’ve had crashes, and just replacing a landing gear was frustrating. If you can handle that, it’s worth it.
@Lennon
Totally agree. Repairs on these drones can be a pain.
Maybe look at the Matrice drones?
True said:
Maybe look at the Matrice drones?
That’s overkill for what OP wants. Still funny though!
Avata 2 is awesome for this kind of flying. Check out this video.
Go with DJI. Either the FPV or the Avata 2.
Harley said:
Go with DJI. Either the FPV or the Avata 2.
Any suggestions on which controller I should use?
Harley said:
Go with DJI. Either the FPV or the Avata 2.
Any suggestions on which controller I should use?
Avoid the motion controller if you think you’ll fly other drones later. Here’s what DJI says works with the Avata 2:
“Hi there. Apart from DJI FPV Controller 2 and DJI FPV Controller 3, DJI Avata 2 is also compatible with the DJI RC Motion 2 and DJI RC Motion 3.”
@Lane
If you’re looking for simplicity, the motion controller is super intuitive. Great for beginners.
Cruz said:
@Lane
If you’re looking for simplicity, the motion controller is super intuitive. Great for beginners.
It’s true, but once you learn a regular controller, the motion one might feel like a toy. Most experienced pilots don’t use it for long.
A standard FPV drone with GPS and a compass can work if it’s running Betaflight or iNav. You can set it to hover in place with altitude hold and position hold. There’s also a gimbal from Caddx that lets you control the camera with head movements using compatible goggles.
The DJI Mini 4 Pro might suit your needs.
The Air 3 with Goggles is fantastic and fun to use. The Avata 2 is a good FPV drone but is better for video than photos. A Mini 4 Pro also pairs nicely with Goggles 3. If you’re just starting, the Avata 2 is great for ease of use and FPV. Plus, the goggles will work if you upgrade to an Air 3 or Mini 4 later. If you want more of a camera drone, start with the Air 3 or Mini 4 and add goggles later. I use the Mini 4 Pro and the Avata 2 and love them both. The Air 3 or Mini 4 with goggles isn’t exactly FPV, but it’s still a fun perspective.
The DJI Mini 3 Pro has FPV and cinematic modes. Worth a look!
You could start small with a cheap $30 brushless 1s drone from AliExpress or Banggood and add a camera with a VTX for another $20–$30. Pair it with affordable goggles like the EV800D ($90). If you don’t like it, you can resell the gear or gift the drone. Just keep in mind that the range on such drones is about 50 meters.
Check out the Cetus FPV kit. It’s beginner-friendly and comes with everything you need.