I just passed my Part 107 test and now I’m ready to buy my first drone and actually learn how to fly one. I want it to be a good experience and a smart investment. I’m a videographer by trade, and I want to get into weddings and real estate. My budget is around $1,000. I’d love something that’ll last me for a few years and help me grow my drone skills too. What would you all suggest?
Mini 4 Pro still holds up really well and fits your budget.
Chance said:
Mini 4 Pro still holds up really well and fits your budget.
Yeah I second that. The 4 Pro is the newest mini drone with obstacle avoidance which makes things a lot easier during wedding shoots or when you’re focused on your shots. Less stress about it flying into something from the front.
Congrats on passing the 107! If I were you, I’d really think about what features matter most to you — kind of like picking a camera and lens. Some drones are better at photos, some are better at video. Don’t forget about size, transport, weight limits, and FAA rules. If you’re just starting, I’d honestly look for a good used drone in your area. Lots of people sell theirs barely used. That way you can practice and save money. Plus it can be a backup once you upgrade later. One of my favorite shots was from a DJI Mini 2 at sunrise — it was windy, but I still got the shot. Just watch out for wind, especially with lighter drones.
There are tons of choices — what’s your exact budget again?
Also, people ask this a lot. You could literally google something like ‘what drone to buy under $500 site:reddit’ and you’ll find a bunch of helpful threads.
Check out the DJI Air 3s 
For learning, I’d go with a Mini 3 or Mini 4 — they’re small, reliable, and if you crash, it won’t hurt quite as much financially. They’re solid for real estate shots too. I use a Mini 3 Pro and it’s done great with estate agents and even tourism board work. For weddings, I’m not 100% sure but it should be decent.
If you can, get the controller with a built-in screen — it’s just one less thing to fumble with on a busy wedding day. Also get prop guards — even a Mini can cut skin if it hits someone.
And yeah, with the 107 I’m sure you know the rules, but weight does matter. Staying under 250g can make flying in certain spots way easier.
@Alden
Just a heads-up — adding prop guards to the Mini 4 Pro can push it over the 250g limit and that puts it in a different category where you’d need a parachute system if flying over people.
I’ll throw in a vote for the DJI Mini 4K — it’s awesome!
Wait… you don’t even have a drone yet?
Bevin said:
Wait… you don’t even have a drone yet?
Nope. Wanted to get my Part 107 done first before jumping in.
Bevin said:
Wait… you don’t even have a drone yet?
Nope. Wanted to get my Part 107 done first before jumping in.
Just saying — you didn’t need the 107 to fly for fun. TRUST certificate covers recreational flying.
@Bevin
True, but I’m looking to get paid — not just fly for fun.
Devi said:
@Bevin
True, but I’m looking to get paid — not just fly for fun.
Yeah but you said you wanted to learn how to fly first. You’re bouncing between two things.
Devi said:
@Bevin
True, but I’m looking to get paid — not just fly for fun.
Yeah but you said you wanted to learn how to fly first. You’re bouncing between two things.
Man what are you even talking about? You’re focusing on the wrong stuff.
@Devi
Nah. You said you wanted to learn to fly, but then you’re stressing about making money? Make up your mind.
First off, big congrats on your 107 — that’s a solid step forward.
Your budget is tight for high-end work, but the Mini 4 Pro is a solid choice if you can find one. Here’s why:
- Sensor is decent for its size
- 360° obstacle avoidance (except in sport mode)
- Under 249g with regular batteries — good for flights over people
- Around 30 mins flight time
Some things to keep in mind:
- Doesn’t handle wind super well
- Regular batteries mean you’ll need a Remote ID module
- Fixed f/1.7 aperture (so less control over light)
- It’s about 3 years old
If you do go with the Mini 4 Pro, here’s what I’d suggest:
- 3 Intelligent Flight Batteries (not Plus)
- A triple charger
- Set of ND filters (16, 64, 256, 1000)
- Carrying case (you can find one for $20)
- Holy Stone Remote ID module
- Landing pad
- Bright vest (mine says FAA Drone Pilot — helps with visibility at weddings or public places)
Watch YouTube tutorials — there’s one about 15 beginner exercises, and check out QuickAssTutorials by Alex Harris.
Most importantly, fly safe.
@Lennon
Thanks for the detailed info. I appreciate it.
Congrats — what study materials did you use to pass?
Reagan said:
Congrats — what study materials did you use to pass?
Pilot Institute and Mike Sytes on YouTube. I actually bounced around a few channels. Honestly, some of the test questions caught me off guard — I hadn’t seen them while studying.