Best 4k Drone for Photographers
The opportunity to capture quality footage is what really sets this type of camera apart from anything else on the market today. When you’re filming with these drones, there are two key things about their technology that make them advantageous when compared to other cameras: resolution and frame rate. A lot goes into capturing those amazing shots we see all over YouTube, but one thing stands out in particular more than any others is quality footage.
The latest 4k drones for photographers are available with a number of features that make filming easier and more enjoyable. For instance, precision stabilization allows for smoother footage while autonomous flight modes like follow me will allow you to get closer shots of your subject without having to manually control the drone’s position at all times. Furthermore, there is no need for manual focusing or framing since these functions can be automated as well — another feature designed specifically for aerial filmmakers who want video coverage from every angle possible! Other advanced options include obstacle detection and collision avoidance which virtually eliminate any risk associated with flying in tight spaces such as forests or urban environments where it would otherwise be difficult to fly safely.
The Technology of 4k Drone Cameras
Imagine the crisp, clear picture of your favorite landscape from high up in the sky. Now imagine it at four times as much detail.
A drone camera with 4k ultra-high definition resolution is measured by its display with at least 8 million active pixels, which have lower resolution boundaries that are 3,840 x 2160 or greater. That means if you own a 4k drone like this one here (pointing to poster), then it will deliver massively detailed content — an eight million pixel difference versus two million pixels on 1080p HD quality images and videos…and there’s even more variety when we talk about digital content for these types of cameras: 3840x2160 and 4096x3112 can be considered formats too.
While 3,840 x 2160 or at least 12MP camera resolution is the most consistent video recording mode and image photography for drone manufacturers such as DJI, Yuneec and GoPro. It doubles the horizontal and vertical pixels offered by 1080p (1,920x1080), which is currently standard HD definition in monitors or TVs. However 4k drones are also available with a 4096x2160 of pixel resolutions — a higher quality option to film videos at high detail.
Best 4k Drone Camera Budget
If you’re looking for professional image quality (maybe you need to shoot weddings or real estate), expect to spend closer to $2,000 and up. Though you can get a decent camera for around $400. When it comes to our top picks in the best drones for photography, DJI dominates the landscape with their lineup of excellent products that are well worth your investment! Here’s proof: according an analysis by Drone Industry Insights*, 76% of all registered drones coming from U.S.-based consumers were made by DJI — and we’re not surprised because they’ve got some pretty great models on offer including the Mavic Air Pro Drones which have been used extensively at commercial events.
The Best 4k Drones reviewed by Photographers
The best 4k drones for photography are listed below. There is a machine for every budget and you should do some more research before buying one, but each of these will work well in capturing the best images and filming.
1. DJI Mavic Air 2 — Priced at $799 on Amazon
The DJI Mavic Air 2 drone is more than just a successor to the original Mavic Air. It’s more of an update that bridges from its own form-factor into becoming a true flagship model in the Mavic lineup. It has an upgraded camera sensor, with 12MP stills from 48 MP for sharper photographs.
Camera Features
- 8K Hyperlapse Time-Lapse Video
- Up to 4K60p Video & 48MP Images
- 1080p Video Transmission up to 6.2 Miles
- 240 fps Slow Motion at 1080p
- HDR Video, Images & Panoramas
See DJI Mavic Air 2 full specs>>>
2. DJI Inspire 2 — Priced at $3,299 on Amazon
The Inspire 2 drone is the best aerial photography and filming machine on the market. It films superbly, producing exceptional quality film. The new CineCore 2.1 image processing system captures up to 6k in CinemaDNG RAW footage with a better camera lens than most other drones of this price range, along with 5.2k Apple ProRes (and more). Increased intelligence adds multiple intelligent flight modes that are perfect for single pilots looking to take their craft seriously — including spotlight pro which gives you even greater control over your shots while still giving them some direction.
Camera Options
Zenmuse X5S
Camera Features
- Gimbal, Camera, and Lens
- Micro Four Thirds Sensor
- 5.2K at 30 fps / 4K at 60 fps
- 20.8MP Still Images
- 12.8 Stops of Dynamic Range
- 12-Bit Raw
- 20 fps Continuous Burst
Zenmuse X7
Camera Features
- 6K (6016 x 3200) Video Capture
- 24MP Still Photos
- Single, Burst, Auto, & Interval Photos
- 5.2k Apple ProRes
- Super 35 sensor
- 14 stops of dynamic range
See DJI Inspire 2 full specs>>>
3. DJI Mavic Pro — Priced at $1,599 on Amazon
The DJI Mavic 2 Pro features a 1" camera sensor for 4K video capture, anti-collision sensors with advanced obstacle avoidance technology to provide some of the safest drone flight available today. OcuSync 2.0 enhances connectivity and range by transmitting 1080p live stream videos well beyond legal line-of sight — up to 7 km (4 miles).
Camera features
- Hasselblad 20MP / UHD 4K Gimbal Camera
- 10-Bit Dlog-M + 10-Bit HDR Video
- Single, Burst, Auto, & Interval Photos
- Hyperlapse Time-Lapse Shots
- Enhanced HDR Photos
See DJI Mavic Pro full specs>>>
4. Yuneec Typhoon H Plus — Priced at $1,599 on Amazon
Weighing as little as 3.4 pounds, the Typhoon H from Yuneec is one of the smallest professional-grade drones available for aerial photography and video production on today’s market. It’s somewhere in between the DJI Phantom and Inspire line, but with some key features that make it worth considering before you buy anything else: 20MP 4K camera on a 3-axis gimbal for smooth shots from any angle, folding design so it can be easily packed or transported without taking up too much space — not to mention market average flight times and speeds. The 6 rotors allow it to fly smoothly with a 360 degree gimbal camera that can be controlled remotely by its user or set modes such as point and shoot mode where photos are taken automatically without any human input. The Intel RealSense obstacle avoidance sensor may just seal your decision when you see how difficult obstacles are avoided automatically by this drone no matter what direction they’re coming at it (and we mean ANY).
Camera features
- Capture 4K Video and 20MP Photos
- 360-Degree Image and Video Capture
- 3-Axis Sensor-Driven Image Stabilization
See Yuneec Typhoon H Plus full specs>>>
5. DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 — Priced at $1,599 on Amazon
DJI’s latest Phantom drone series has some of the most advanced obstacle avoidance features on a consumer-friendly level. The V2.0 Pro is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with radar and more ways to avoid obstacles like trees or power lines that would otherwise ruin your day while flying FPV (first person view). This new model also comes with an improved camera from previous models: 20MP 4K video recording capability for stunning aerial footage in glorious high definition detail.
Camera features
- Single Shot
- Burst Shooting: 3/5/7/10/14 frames
- Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 3/5 bracketed frames at 0.7 EV Bias
- Interval: 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60 s
- 1" 20MP CMOS Sensor
- Gimbal-Stabilized 4K60 / 20MP Imaging
- FlightAutonomy with Redundant Sensors
See DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 full specs>>>
6. DJI MINI 2 — Priced at $449 on Amazon
DJI has released the next generation of its popular Mavic Mini drone, DJI Mini 2. The new version is a solid improvement over it’s predecessor with vastly improved connectivity and more power which are both essential for drones to advance in this modern age where changing weather conditions can cause issues at any time. Another most significant update is a 4K camera that can capture detailed and vivid footage up to 100 meters away from its subject with 30 fps video recording capability! All this power means more battery life for longer flight times, or shorter charge time if you’re in need of some juice at any given moment. Not only does the camera offer 4K video recording but also live streaming capabilities on YouTube or Facebook Live.
Camera features
- Single Shot
- Interval: JPEG: 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60 s
- 3-Axis Gimbal with 4K30 Video
- Capture 12MP Stills in JPG & Raw
- Up to 4x Digital Zoom
- Intelligent Flight & Panorama Modes
- Sensor: 1/2.3” CMOS
- Electronic Shutter Speed: 4–1/8000 s
7. Yuneec Typhoon H — Priced at $699.99 on Amazon
The Yuneec TYPHOON H is a hexacopter with 4K camera and advanced flight features. The design has become iconic of the company, offering safety from six propellers and versatility in its center-hanging camera. The remote control comes as an Android powered device with built-in 7 inch display and all controls needed to navigate aircrafts or operate cameras; GPS connectivity ensures successful flights for most pilots while multiple smart flight modes give users options depending on their situation. Basic obstacle avoidance sensors help keep things safe, but are not available if you want more sophisticated technology that can detect height restrictions or follow predetermined routes (though this may change soon). Folding up at just over 17 inches long means it’s easy to transport anywhere you go.
Camera features
- Designed for Aerial Photo and Video
- Capture Up to 4K Video/12MP Still Photos
- 3-Axis Gimbal Pans Full 360°
- 7" Touchscreen to View/Operate Camera
See Yuneec Typhoon H full specs>>>
8. Skydio 2 — Priced at $1,349 on Skydio.com
The Skydio 2 is the follow up to its predecessor, which had groundbreaking autonomy for a drone at that time. The new Skydio 2 offers a range of features, including 4K resolution footage at up to 60 frames per second.The use of Nvidia Jetson and obstacle avoidance sensors in both drones makes them some of the safest models around with regards to avoiding crashes. It also includes an enhanced follow-me mode that can be controlled through your smartphone or by using the remote control provided in order for it to always stay close and keep you in view while its flying around. The beacon is another option which helps ensure even when out of sight that this drone will still know where you are so as not lose track. With six cameras with 48MPs each, you can rest easy knowing your drone will be able to avoid obstacles without crashing while flying! They believe so much in their technology that they offer free repairs or replacements if anything happens during flight.
Camera features
- Still Resolution 4056x3040 (12 MP)
- Sensor Sony IMX577 1/2.3” 12.3MP CMOS
- Lens f/2.8 20mm (35mm format equivalent) 1m — ∞
- Electronic shutter speed 1 to 1/1920s
9. PowerVision PowerEgg — Priced at $836.63 on Amazon
The PowerEgg X Explorer AI Camera & Drone from Power Vision is an egg-shaped camera that can act as a stationary video drone, capturing footage automatically. It has the ability to withstand up 18 mph winds and still produce stunning aerial videos; you can also use it in handheld mode or attach your smartphone for recording audio. This all-inclusive device uses 3 axis stabilizing gimbals with 4K60 filming capabilities — perfect for any professional videographer who needs on-the go equipment!
While many drones are self contained devices which come preprogrammed by default, the features of this model make it especially ideal for those seeking versatility during production time. One arm houses its high tech AI system while another contains a powerful battery.
Camera features
- Still Image 12 MP (4000 x 3000)
- Auto-Exposure Bracketing (AEB), Burst Shooting, Interval, Single Shot
- Electronic Shutter 1/8000 to 8 Seconds
- Image Sensor 1/2.8" CMOS Sensor
- Sensor Resolution Actual: 12MP
See PowerVision PowerEgg full specs>>>
10. DJI Air 2S — Priced at $999 on DJI.com
DJI’s Air 2S is the camera-lovers’ dream update to its DJI Mavic Air 2. The primary enhancement of this drone over its predecessor, at 20MP, it goes toe-to-toe with the larger and more expensive DJI Mavic Pro but offers a smaller size for lower cost that almost 3 years newer than before. In addition to upgraded visuals in an already well equipped package, high speed operation on obstacles was also taken into account when designing sensors top side mounted; proving successful with their FPV model as evidence.
Camera features
- Still Photography Modes: Single shot: 20 MP
Burst shooting: 20 MP (continuous burst)
Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 20 MP, 3/5 bracketed frames at 0.7 EV bias
Timed: 20 MP, 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60s
SmartPhoto (including HDR and HyperLight): 20 MP
HDR Panorama: Vertical (3×1): 3328×8000 (width×height)
Wide-angle (3×3): 8000×6144 (width×height)
180° (3×7): 8192×3500 (width×height)
Sphere (3×8+1): 8192×4096 (width×height)
- Sensor: 1" CMOS Effective Pixels: 20 MP; 2.4μm Pixel Size
