Remote-controlled drones have really taken off this year. Just a quick search on Amazon pulls up dozens of options to the chagrin of the Federal Aviation Association, who likely won't have regulations for flying them for another year or two. In the meantime, let's look at some of the more popular models, which range in price from US$29 to US$1,000 or more (prices listed are from Amazon). If you already got one as a gift this holiday, the FAA recommends keeping the vehicle below 400 feet and within five miles of an airport or stadium.
1. DJI's Phantom 2 Vision+
We're not ranking drones in this article, but just about anyone interested in the hobby puts DJI's Phantom 2 Vision+ (US$998 on Amazon) at the top of their list. It comes with its own camera and a high-quality gimbal that pivots automatically to capture steady video from above. An internal GPS chip keeps the drone stable even on windy days.
2. Blade 350 QX2 AP Combo
The 350 QX2 AP Combo is an upgraded model that comes with GPS, a 2-axis gimbal and 5.8GHz of Wi-Fi for video downlinks. The drone delivers 10 to 15 minutes of flight and the Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope (SAFE) technology keeps the craft smooth even under windy conditions. (Price: US$999)
3. Parrot Bebob
In addition to having a 14-megapixel, HD 1080p fisheye camera that records video with a 180-degree view, this drone can be paired with the Oculus Rift virtual reality headset. Moving your head moves the drone's camera. A built-in GPS can be programmed to return the craft home automatically. (Price: US$799)
4. Iris+
The Iris+ flies for 16 to 22 minutes either remotely with the controller or autonomously, using a Mac, PC or Android device. A GoPro camera mount with vibration damper is perfect for the Follow Me technology, a hands-free mode that allows users to film themselves. (Price: US$750)
5. Parrot AR 2.0
The latest version of Parrot's AR, comes with two built-in cameras that record video and send it directly to your device in real-time. Users can view the flights in 3D and a new "return home" mode flies the drone back to its base as its battery life dwindles. A stunt command lets users fly the drone into barrel rolls or flips. Battery lasts about 12 minutes. (Price: US$666)
6. Parrot Rolling Spider
The fun little Rolling Spider is small enough for indoors and stable enough for outside. It turns 90 and 180 degrees and is able to do 360-degree forward and backward flips. Removable wheels give it the flexibility to manoeuvre across the floor, walls or ceiling. The rechargeable lithium-polymer battery provides eight minutes of drone time after a one-hour charge. (Price: US$119)
7. Syma X5C
Syma's X5C has a 6-axis gyro stabilization system, offering a 360-degree roll capability. The HD camera takes stills and video. The battery provides seven minutes of flight time after 100 minutes of charging using a USB port. (Price: US$63)
8. Proto X Nano Quadcopter
Estes Proto X is billed as the smallest drone, making it ideal for indoor use. It measures 1.8" x 1.8" and weighs only four-tenths of an ounce. Chose from six colours - black, white, red, yellow, green and purple. Takes AAA batteries. (Price: US$29)
9. Hubsan X4 Pro
In the "coming soon" category, Hubsan has been promoting its X4 Pro, which will have automatic take-off and landing GPS, a 3 axis gimbal, a 1080 HD camera and, my favourite, a parachute that deploys if the drone suffers a malfunction. Expected release is sometime in 2015.
10. Ziphius
This app-controlled aquatic drone was fully funded on Kickstarter. Backers who pledged US$195 received a drone. The Ziphius tags along in the pool or in open water to film swimmers, divers, surfers and more. It has a 720p camera and boasts one hour of battery life with a Wi-Fi range up to 300 feet. You can pre-order one now at the starting price of US$199 at Myziphius. Estimated ship date is March 2015.
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