The Best GPS Drones Under $250

When it comes to finding a GPS drone under $250, the options can be limited. Major brands like DJI and Hubsan often exceed this budget, making the MJX H501S/Pro a highly recommended choice. This quadcopter offers a balance of affordability and functionality that makes it a great value for both hobbyists and beginners.

The MJX H501S/Pro: Your Best Bet

I recently had an opportunity to test the MJX H501S/Pro with a friend, and we both had a fantastic time with it, even though it is a more budget-friendly option compared to some of the high-end racing quads I'm accustomed to working with. The drone is incredibly easy to assemble, requiring only a screwdriver and some basic soldering skills. It comes equipped with a GPS and features a fantastic flight controller, offering both autonomous and manual flying capabilities.

Building and Customizing Your Experience

The ground station can be programmed to fly autonomously, utilizing waypoints that you can input yourself. If you prefer manual control, the drone also works seamlessly with a radio transmitter. For those who want more control and customization, Spektrum 12 or Taranis X9D controllers are highly recommended. While a powerline receiver for the controller is necessary, you can also enjoy the drone’s autonomous features without the complex setup and additional cost.

Additional Components for Enhanced Performance

For a fully optimized experience, you might consider adding a FLYSKY flight controller, which costs around $75, and a FLYSKY receiver, at approximately $10, bringing your total cost to around $260. Additionally, you’ll need to account for batteries and a charger, which typically cost around $20 per battery and $40 for a charger. While this may seem like a significant investment, the value and enjoyment you get from the MJX H501S/Pro is well worth the cost.

Building the MJX H501S/Pro Kit

The 450mm F450 FPV Quadcopter Drone BNF Kit with M8N GPS APM 2.8 Flight Controller 2212 940KV Brushless Motor is a robust and reliable kit. This drone offers a perfect balance of size and capabilities, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

Key Features:

450mm frame with M8N GPS and APM 2.8 flight controller 2212 940KV brushless motor, providing strong performance Solid build quality, ensuring durability during flights Autonomous flying with waypoints and manual control options Included ground station for programming and monitoring

Conclusion

While it's difficult to find a GPS drone under $250 that hits all the right marks, the MJX H501S/Pro is definitely worth considering. This FPV quadcopter offers a fantastic blend of features and performance, making it a top choice for hobbyists and enthusiasts alike. If you're looking for a drone that can handle various flying styles, from autonomous missions to manual control, the MJX H501S/Pro is your best bet. Happy flying!