Thinking about getting 2 drones … need advice on FPV and cinematic?

I’m planning to buy two drones and want to get something that lasts a few years without feeling the need to upgrade. I’ll be buying in the US and taking them overseas early next year.

  1. FPV Drone: I’m looking for something with goggles to learn how to fly for fun and record flights with decent video quality. Is that even possible? Someone told me to get a smaller drone I could fly indoors or around work, but I’m unsure.

  2. Cinematic Drone: I travel a lot and want to include aerial footage in my travel videos. I’d like it to be easy to fly, produce great video out of the box, and be beginner-friendly but still good for a hobbyist. Should I get a small one like a Mini or Air, or go for something bigger? Portability is important because this drone will travel with me (mostly around Asia). Do I need collision avoidance?

Also, what software will I need? Are there things I should know about flying in areas with people, buildings, or cars underneath?

By the way, I already have a GoPro and plan to buy a new one this Christmas if that helps with the FPV drone for recording flights.

If you’re getting into FPV, just know it’s a bit of a rabbit hole and involves a lot of DIY. I love it, but it’s not for everyone. For the cinematic drone, I’d recommend starting with a Mini 3 or 4. Go for the controller with the built-in screen and add DJI Care. For FPV, it’s better to start with a simulator, learn soldering, and eventually build your own.

@Tory
Any recommendations for a simulator?

Kai said:
@Tory
Any recommendations for a simulator?

Velocidrone is super popular, though I haven’t used it myself. I play Uncrashed, and the user-made maps keep it really fun.

@Tory
Thanks! Maybe I’ll hold off on FPV for now and just use a simulator for a while. Luckily, I already know how to solder.

Tallis said:
@Tory
Thanks! Maybe I’ll hold off on FPV for now and just use a simulator for a while. Luckily, I already know how to solder.

That’s great! Soldering is half the challenge when building your own. Get a Radiomaster Pocket Mini (I might have the name a bit wrong) and try Uncrashed or Velocidrone. You’ll be doing tricks like Matty flips in no time!

@Tory
Make sure you get the ELRS version of the Pocket Mini, not the CC2500 version. If you’ve got the budget, go for the Boxer or the Jumper T15 instead.

For FPV in your situation, it’s hard to beat something like the DJI Avata 2 unless you’re ready to spend a lot or enjoy tinkering.