9 Cheap Drones With Obstacle Avoidance

The world of drones has seen rapid advancements in recent years, particularly in the realm of safety features. Obstacle avoidance technology has emerged as a key component for ensuring smooth and secure flights, minimising the risk of crashes and damage, and allowing pilots to execute more complex manoeuvres with ease. As drone technology becomes more widespread and competition among manufacturers increases, drones with obstacle avoidance features are becoming cheaper. This blog post aims to guide readers on the best cheap drones with obstacle avoidance capabilities currently available on the market.

What To Look For In a Cheap Drone With Obstacle Avoidance.

When searching for a cheap drone with obstacle avoidance, it’s important to set a budget that considers the balance between price and the features you desire. Keep in mind that although drones with obstacle avoidance have become more accessible, they still carry a higher price tag compared to entry-level drones without these features.

Flight performance is a crucial factor when choosing a drone. Pay attention to the drone’s stability, speed, flight time and wind resistance to ensure it meets your requirements.

Camera quality is another key consideration for many drone enthusiasts, particularly for those interested in aerial photography or videography. All the drones on this list come equipped with high-end cameras that are suitable for professional photography. Consider the resolution, frame rate, and image stabilisation capabilities of the drone’s camera when making your decision.

Are There Cheap Drones With Obstacle Avoidance?

There are indeed affordable drones with obstacle avoidance features on the market, as advances in technology have led to reduced prices. However, it’s important to understand the limitations of these less expensive models.

Firstly, the obstacle avoidance technology in cheaper drones usually doesn’t provide comprehensive coverage. The sensors are often mounted on top, which means the drone may not be as effective in avoiding obstacles from all directions. More expensive models from high-end brands like DJI and Autel Robotics have more sophisticated systems that integrate the sensors seamlessly within the drone, offering 360-degree protection.

Secondly, while cheaper drones can detect and avoid obstacles, they may not be capable of manoeuvring around them. In other words, they can stop to prevent a collision but won’t automatically plot a new course to bypass the obstacle.

Although you might not find drones with obstacle avoidance technology in the lowest price brackets from top brands such as DJI or Autel Robotics, there are reasonably priced models available.

The cheapest Drones from these companies with obstacle avoidance systems range from about $600 to $900. While this might not be considered “cheap,” these drones offer excellent value for their price, combining reliable obstacle avoidance technology with other high-quality features.

It’s always a good idea to thoroughly research and compare different models to find the drone that best meets your needs and budget.

9 Cheap Drones With Obstacle Avoidance

1. Exo x7 Ranger Plus

The Exo X7 Ranger Plus is a compact drone equipped with impressive camera capabilities and is one of the best cheap drones with obstacle avoidance system. It features a camera that can record 2K HD videos at 30fps and capture stunning 4K images with its 9MP sensor. The drone’s three-axis gimbal ensures steady and stable footage. With a flight time of up to 25 minutes, the X7 Ranger Plus offers a respectable duration for extended aerial adventures. It can reach speeds of up to 27mph and has a wind resistance of approximately 25mph.

The drone has several intelligent features such as follow me, waypoint and orbit mode, allowing autonomous flights.

It has an obstacle avoidance module on top that has a wide-angle FOV and a detection range of 8 meters. The module automatically rotates whichever way the drone is flying, which gives it a near all-round detection range.

It has to be repeated; this isn’t a smart obstacle avoidance system found in the DJI’s drones, the drone cannot automatically manoeuvre around obstacles, but it still provides an extra layer of safety.

Key Features

• 4K Camera: The X7 Ranger Plus is equipped with a 4K camera that allows you to capture high-quality aerial videos and 9MP still photos.
• 25-Minute Flight Time: It offers a flight time of up to 20 minutes, allowing for longer aerial sessions.
• Wind Resistance: The drone is designed to withstand winds of 20mph or higher, ensuring stable flight even in challenging weather conditions.
• Obstacle Avoidance: The X7 Ranger Plus offers an obstacle avoidance system, enhancing flight safety and helping to prevent collisions.
• Smart Modes: The drone comes with built-in smart modes that enable automatic flight, such as auto-return to home, find my drone, follow me and circle-me, and waypoint.

2. ZLL SG906 Max 2 Beast

The ZLL SG906 Max 2 Beast is a fantastic budget-friendly drone that combines many advanced features within an affordable package. This is the successor to its well-regarded predecessor, the SG906 Max Beast; the drone comes with several upgrades, including a longer flight time and an obstacle avoidance system.

One of the SG906 Max 2 Beast’s primary selling points is its obstacle avoidance system which is similar in design and functionality to the Exo X7 Ranger Plus. The obstacle avoidance module is situated on the drone’s top and can be removed when necessary. The sensor offers a wide field of view and can detect obstacles from an impressive distance of 20

The drone also has several intelligent features that enhance the flying experience. These include waypoint mode, follow me mode, and orbit mode. The drone has a GPS-assisted return to home function that will minimise the risk of losing the drone in mid-flight

With a maximum flight time of around 30 minutes, this makes the ZLL SG906 Max 2 Beast an affordable drone with the longest flight times. It also comes with an impressive video transmission range of 4km.

Additional features such as altitude hold, headless mode, and one-key takeoff/landing make it a good option for both novice fliers and seasoned drone enthusiasts.

In the competitive area of cheap drones with obstacle avoidance, the SG906 Max 2 Beast truly shines as a robust contender, delivering high-end features at an affordable price.

Key Features

• Camera and Gimbal: It is equipped with an HD 4K camera that is mounted on a 3-axis stabilised gimbal. This combination ensures smooth and stable aerial photography and videography.
• Camera and Video Capabilities: The camera can capture 4K images and record videos at in 4K at 30fps.
• Obstacle Avoidance: The drone has an obstacle avoidance system that uses laser sensors to detect obstacles in its path. If an obstacle is detected within 20 meters, the remote control will sound an alarm and prevent the drone from moving forward, enhancing flight safety.
• Intelligent flight features: The built-in GPS module provides accurate positioning and navigation for the drone. This enables features like waypoint mode, follow me mode, and return to home function, enhancing flight control.
• Flight Performance: It has a maximum FPV range of 4km and a long flight time of 30 minutes.

3. SJRC F22S

The SJRC F22S 4K PRO is a fantastic-looking drone and one of the best with a cheap obstacle avoidance system. This feature-packed drone, coated in a stylish, silvery grey colour, impresses with its capabilities, proving that excellent performance can come at a reasonable price.

Powered by an 1806 brushless motor and an 11.1V 3500mAh battery, the F22S promises a substantial flight time of around 35 minutes. Its FPV transmission range is about 3km, enabling long-range flying and real-time image transmission—an impressive feat for such a cheap drone with obstacle avoidance.

One of the key features of this drone is its 4K HD adjustable camera with a 100° Field of View. This enables users to capture high-quality photos and record HD videos. To ensure ample storage, an SD card slot accepting cards ranging from 32GB to 128GB capacity is provided (card not included).

Enhancing its video-capturing capabilities is a 2-axis mechanical gimbal. This feature ensures stability in flight, delivering smooth, cinema-quality footage. Its intelligent flight modes, including ‘follow me’, ‘surround flight’, ‘waypoint flight’, and ‘point of interest’, further enhance its filming capabilities.

An innovative feature of this drone is its ability to respond to hand gestures for video and photo capture.

The F22S stands out in terms of safety and stability as well. Equipped with a front-facing obstacle avoidance system and a dual GNSS module, it sets a high standard for drones in its price range.

The accompanying app elevates your creativity, supporting functions such as filters, video effects, and background music for engaging video editing.

In summary, the SJRC F22S 4K PRO offers a blend of advanced features and affordability, making it an exceptional choice among cheap drones with obstacle avoidance. It’s an ideal pick for hobbyists interested in aerial photography and videography without breaking the bank.

Key Features

• 4K HD Camera with EIS: The drone features a 4K HD camera that can capture high-quality photos and videos. It is equipped with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and ensures smooth footage.
• 2-Axis Gimbal: The F22S drone incorporates a 2-axis mechanical gimbal, providing stability and steady footage.
• Obstacle Avoidance: The drone is equipped with an obstacle avoidance system that uses sensors to detect and avoid obstacles in its flight path.
• Optical Flow and Altitude Hold: The optical flow sensor enables precise positioning and hovering, even in environments without GPS signals.
• Intelligent Flight Modes: The drone offers various intelligent flight modes, including Follow Me, Point of Interest, Waypoint Flight, and Gesture Control. These modes allow for automated flight and creative aerial shots.
• Long Flight Time and Range: With a high-capacity battery, the F22S drone can fly for approximately 35 minutes on a single charge.

4. ZLL SG908 Max

The ZLL SG908 Max drone is a high-quality, user-friendly gadget that’s ideal for hobbyists and drone enthusiasts alike. Its foldable and lightweight design promotes ultra-portability, complemented by an array of smart features.

This drone ranks among the best budget-friendly options equipped with obstacle avoidance technology, similar to the likes of the X7 Ranger Plus and SG906 Max 2 Beast.

It features a detachable obstacle avoidance module positioned on top, capable of detecting obstructions from a distance of 20 meters. As the module rotates in the direction the drone is flying, it provides nearly full 360° coverage.

An intelligent battery powers the SG908 Max, granting a flight time of approximately 26 minutes. Its robust brushless motors further ensure superior flight stability and hovering capability.

The drone also incorporates a dual GNSS module, enhancing GPS coverage significantly. It offers various autonomous flight modes, including ‘follow me’, ‘circle flight’, and ‘waypoint’, along with an automatic ‘return to home’ function.

Users can access these intelligent flight modes via the XIL Max app. The app also provides the option to edit and enhance videos, allowing users to share their drone footage on social media easily.

Key Features

• Camera: It is equipped with a 4K HD camera mounted on a 3-axis mechanical gimbal, allowing for stable and high-quality aerial photography and videography. The camera can record 2K videos and captures 4K images
• Flight Performance: The drone comes with a flight time of 26 minutes.
• Obstacle Avoidance: With its rotating obstacle avoidance module, the drone can detect and avoid obstacles in its flight path, ensuring a safe and collision-free flying experience.
• Transmission range: The drone supports 5G WiFi image transmission technology, providing a clear and real-time video feed to your smartphone or tablet. The image transmission distance is approximately 3km.
• Intelligent Flight Modes: The drone offers various intelligent flight modes, including follow me, waypoint flight, circle and trajectory pointing flight. These modes allow for automated and customised flight paths.
• Gesture Control: It features hand gesture shooting and video recognition, enabling you to control the drone using simple gestures for hands-free operation.Bottom of Form

5. DJI Mini 3 Pro

Imagine having a fantastic little drone that offers an unparalleled experience for both hobbyists and pros. The DJI Mini 3 Pro is just that. This mini drone, weighing less than a block of butter, is loaded with features that make capturing beautiful photos and 4K HDR videos a breeze. Thanks to its large image sensor, wide aperture and high ISO range, It even excels in low-light environments and can take stunning 48MP RAW images.

The Mini 3 Pro is one of the top cheap drones with obstacle avoidance. It’s designed to give you the confidence to fly in complex environments, thanks to its 3-way obstacle avoidance systems. With sensors that detect objects in real-time from three directions—forward, backwards, and downward—this little drone minimises the risk of accidents. It’s also equipped with APAS 4.0, an upgraded system that helps it navigate around obstacles smoothly. All of these features make the DJI Mini 3 Pro the one safest mini drone out there.

But that’s not all; the DJI Mini 3 Pro boasts an impressive flight time of up to 34 minutes, thanks to its powerful Intelligent Flight Battery. Pilots can also purchase the intelligent plus battery that extends the flight time to an astonishing 47 minutes.

The drone uses DJI’s latest video transmission technology, DJI O3, which ensures a clear and reliable live feed even from 12km. Whether you’re exploring urban landscapes or capturing your outdoor adventures, this drone has got your back. It even comes with two controller options for added flexibility, both offering high-quality video transmission with minimal latency.

You can purchase this drone with the standard DJI RC-N1 controller; this is the cheapest option. However, many people opt for the DJI RC controller that comes with an integrated 5.5-inch HD screen. It’s a little more expensive, but it saves you from having to use your smartphone.

Key Features

• 1/1.3-inch sensor with f/1.7 aperture and 82.1°
• 48MP (RAW & JPEG)
• Records 4K videos at 60fps, 2.7k at 60fps
• AEB, Panorama and HDR photography modes
• Quickshots
• Intelligent flight modes (ActiveTrack, POI)
• 34 minutes of flight time
• 12km video transmission range

6. DJI Mavic Air 2

Let’s talk about the DJI Air 2, also known as the DJI Mavic Air 2. This fantastic drone is perfect for aerial photography and videography enthusiasts. It’s got a lot of improvements compared to the DJI Mavic Air, especially in performance, camera quality, and flight time.

The DJI Air 2 is equipped with a 1/2-inch Quad Bayer CMOS sensor, which means you can capture beautiful 48MP still images and 4K video at 60fps. Plus, you can get some cool slow-motion footage in 1080p at 240fps. The camera is stabilised by a 3-axis gimbal, so you’ll always have smooth and stable shots.

One of the things I love about this drone is its impressive flight time – up to 34 minutes! That gives you plenty of time to explore and capture stunning aerial shots. It also has an excellent obstacle avoidance system called APAS 3.0, which helps the drone detect and avoid obstacles in real-time. This means safer flights and less chance of accidents. The DJI Air 2 has some cool, intelligent flight modes, like ActiveTrack 3.0 for tracking subjects, Point of Interest 3.0 for circling around a subject, and Spotlight 2.0 for keeping the camera focused while you control the drone’s movement. With DJI’s OcuSync 2.0 technology, you’ll get a reliable video transmission range of up to 6.2 miles with a 1080p live view.

This drone is designed to handle strong winds, and its foldable, compact design makes it easy to carry around – perfect for travellers and outdoor enthusiasts.

It also has advanced features like HDR photography and video, as well as a Hyperlapse mode for creating stunning time-lapse videos.

Overall, the DJI Air 2 is an excellent drone with an attractive combination of performance, camera quality, and flight time.

Key Features

• 1/2-inch CMOS sensor
• 48MP still images (RAW & JPEG)
• SmartPhoto mode
• Records videos in 4K  UHD at 60FPS, 2.7K@60FPS
• HDR Images & Videos
• D-Cinelike colour profile
• Intelligent flight modes
• Obstacle avoidance system
• 10km Range
• 34 Minutes Of Flight Time

7. Exo Blackhawk 2 Pro

The Exo Blackhawk 2 Pro is an awesome high-performance drone and is one of the cheapest drones with obstacle avoidance. This drone has some really advanced features, powerful performance, and is super durable, making it a popular choice for everyone, from enthusiasts to pros.

The camera on the Exo Blackhawk 2 Pro is seriously impressive. It can capture 4K videos at 30fps and 48MP still images. Plus, it’s mounted on a 3-axis gimbal, so your footage will be smooth and stable no matter the conditions. The drone also supports cool shooting modes like HDR, Hyperlapse, and Slow Motion, so you’ll have loads of creative options for your aerial projects.

One of the best features of this drone is its flight time – up to 35 minutes! That gives you plenty of time to get those amazing shots and explore the skies. And to make sure your flights are safe, the Exo Blackhawk 2 Pro has a good obstacle avoidance system that uses sensors on its front, rear and bottom to detect and avoid obstacles in its way.

This drone has some cool, intelligent flight modes like Follow Me, Orbit, and Waypoint. These make it easier for you to get dynamic and engaging footage because the drone can automatically track subjects, fly in a circular path around a point of interest, or follow a pre-planned route. That way, you can focus on getting the perfect shot.

The Exo Blackhawk 2 Pro uses a reliable, long-range video transmission system that gives you a live video feed with low latency and high resolution.

That means you’ll always have a clear view of what’s going on during your flight. It’s designed to withstand strong winds, so if you are an experienced drone pilot, you can test your piloting skills in windy conditions. And since it’s foldable and compact, it’s easy to carry around and transport – perfect for professionals on the go.

In a nutshell, the Exo Blackhawk 2 Pro is an amazing, feature-packed drone that’s a good alternative to the likes of DJI and Autel drones. Its advanced camera capabilities, obstacle avoidance system, and impressive flight time make it a top choice among cheap drones with obstacle avoidance.

Key Features

• 1/1.3- inch CMOS sensor
• 48MP still images (RAW & JPEG)
• Records 4K videos at 30FPS
• Multiple photography modes
• 6X Digital Zoom
• 5 Quick Shots
• 8km Range
• 35 Minutes Of Flight Time

8. Autel Evo Nano Plus

The Autel Evo Nano Plus is an awesome lightweight camera drone designed with photography enthusiasts in mind. This little drone weighs under 250 grams and packs a punch with its 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor. You can capture stunning 50 MP images, even in low-light environments, thanks to the large f/1.9 aperture and RYYB colour filter.

This drone is not only great for photography, but it also offers cool autonomous video recording modes and dynamic subject tracking 2.1. Plus, you can fly with confidence, as the Autel Evo Nano Plus comes with an advanced obstacle avoidance system. It uses three-way vision sensors to spot obstacles in front, behind, and below the drone. While it doesn’t navigate around obstacles, it’ll stop a few meters away, giving you a chance to change direction safely.

With a flight time of up to 28 minutes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture amazing shots. And to top it all off, the Autel Evo Nano Plus features the powerful Autel SkyLink transmission system, ensuring a clear video transmission range of up to 10km.

Key Features

• 1/1.28-inch CMOS sensor
• 50MP images
• 4k videos at 30fps
• Autofocus technology
• Intelligent flight modes
• Quickshots
• 3-axis gimbal
• 28minutes of flight time
• 10km video transmission range

9. Exo Mini Drone Pro

The Exo Mini Pro is a fantastic compact and portable drone that’s perfect for anyone who loves aerial photography and videography. It’s foldable design and lightweight construction make it super convenient for on-the-go adventures. Plus, it’s packed with advanced features and offers impressive performance, making it a great choice for capturing amazing aerial footage.

The drone comes with a high-quality camera that can capture 4K video at 30fps and 48MP still images. Thanks to its 3-axis gimbal, your footage will be smooth and stable in all kinds of shooting conditions. Plus, you can get creative with intelligent shooting modes like HDR, Panorama, and Time-lapse, giving you even more options for your aerial projects. With a flight time of up to 40 minutes, it’s one of the mini-best drones with the longest flight times.

One of the best things about the Exo Mini Pro is its basic obstacle avoidance system. It uses front and downward-facing sensors to detect and avoid obstacles, making your flights safer and helping to prevent accidents. The drone also has some cool, intelligent flight modes like Follow Me, Orbit, and Waypoint, which lets you automatically track subjects, circle around points of interest or follow a pre-planned route. This frees you up to focus on getting the perfect shot.

The Exo Mini Pro has a reliable video transmission system that provides a clear live video feed during flight, so you can see what your drone sees. And because it’s designed for portability, the drone’s foldable and compact size makes it easy to carry and transport. It’s an ideal choice for travellers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a powerful aerial platform that’s also easy to take with them.

In a nutshell, the Exo Mini Pro is an awesome drone for anyone looking for a budget-friendly option with obstacle avoidance. With its advanced camera capabilities, basic obstacle avoidance, and impressive flight time, you’ll be able to capture incredible aerial footage without breaking the bank.

Key Features

• 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
• 48MP still images 
• Records videos in 4K at 30fps, 2.7k at 60fps
• 3-way obstacle avoidance
• 3 Hyperlapse video recording mode
• Follow me, orbit & Waypoint intelligent flight modes
• 10km video transmission range
• 40-minute Of Flight Time
• 4 Quick Shots

How Does Obstacle Avoidance On A Drone Work?

Obstacle avoidance on a drone is achieved through a combination of sensors, data processing, decision-making, control systems, and feedback loops. Sensors, such as ultrasonic, infrared, LIDAR, and cameras, collect data about the environment, which is then processed by the drone’s onboard computer to identify and determine the position, distance, and size of obstacles. Advanced systems employ machine learning and computer vision algorithms to enhance the accuracy of this process.

The drone’s control system uses the processed data to decide how to avoid obstacles by adjusting its flight path, speed, or altitude or by stopping and hovering in place. Commands are sent to the drone’s motors and other actuators to execute the necessary manoeuvres. A continuous feedback loop allows the drone to dynamically adapt to its environment and maintain safe flight. Manufacturers like DJI, Autel Robotics and Skydio have developed sophisticated obstacle avoidance systems, and as drone technology continues to progress, these systems are expected to become even more advanced and reliable.

Are These Drones Suitable For Beginners?

Yes, drones with obstacle avoidance technology are suitable for beginners, as these features can significantly enhance safety and ease of use. The obstacle avoidance systems can help prevent crashes and damage, allowing new pilots to focus on learning the basics of drone flight without worrying as much about potential accidents. This can boost confidence and make the learning process smoother and more enjoyable.

However, it’s important to consider the price of these drones, as they can be expensive for someone who is just starting their drone journey. If you are a total beginner to flying drones, it might be a good idea to first explore more affordable options, like the Tello drone. The Tello drone is not only budget-friendly but also offers user-friendly controls and an easy-to-use interface, making it a great option for new drone pilots. It provides a stable flight experience and the opportunity to learn fundamental flying skills before upgrading to a more advanced and expensive drone with obstacle avoidance features.

As you gain experience with flying drones, you can then invest in a more advanced model with obstacle avoidance technology.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, we’ve highlighted the importance of obstacle avoidance technology in drones and its increasing affordability. Remember to consider factors like price range, flight performance, and camera quality when choosing a drone. Keep exploring different options, and ultimately, select the one that best fits your needs and budget, ensuring a safe and enjoyable flying experience.

FAQs

Is obstacle avoidance worth it on a drone?

Obstacle avoidance is worth having on a drone as it enhances safety, eases the learning process for beginners, improves footage quality, boosts pilot confidence, and lowers repair costs by preventing collisions. However, pilots should not solely rely on obstacle avoidance systems and must always fly responsibly, maintaining a visual line of sight.

What is the cheapest drone with obstacle avoidance?

The cheapest drone with obstacle avoidance is one of the top 4 drones I have listed, although you should do your own research as new models are released frequently.