Quadcopters

Top 10 Quad-copters in 2016

       A quadcopter, also called a quadrotor helicopter or quadrotor is a multirotor helicopter that is lifted and propelled by four rotors. Quadcopters are classified as rotorcraft, as opposed to fixed-wing aircraft, because their lift is generated by a set of rotors (vertically oriented propellers).

Quadcopters generally use two pairs of identical fixed pitched propellers; two clockwise (CW) and two counter-clockwise (CCW). These use independent variation of the speed of each rotor to achieve control. By changing the speed of each rotor it is possible to specifically generate a desired total thrust; to locate for the centre of thrust both laterally and longitudinally; and to create a desired total torque, or turning force.

In the late 2000s, advances in electronics allowed the production of cheap lightweight flight controllers, accelerometers (IMU), global positioning system and cameras. This resulted in a rapid proliferation of small, cheap consumer quadcopters along with other multi rotor designs. Quadcopter designs also became popular in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV or drone) research. With their small size and maneuverability, these quadcopters can be flown indoors as well as outdoors.

Here is the list of top 10 Quadcopters (drone) in 2016:

1. DJI Inspire 1 PRO Zenmuse X5 4K Camera Drone RTF

Price: $3,899.00(amazon.com)

With the ZENMUSE X5, you have the world’s first set of Micro Four Thirds cameras built specifically for aerial photography and cinematography. Bringing unparalleled imaging quality together with integrated 3-axis gimbal stabilization and remarkable ease of use, each empowers you to shoot and complete jobs like never before. The Inspire 1 Pro comes with one transmitter (radio controller) and a second can be added if desired so that one operator can pilot and another can pan and tilt the camera. This is the king of all drones in 2016.

Highlighted features:

·         Bundle Includes: Custom Painted Carbon Fiber Inspire 1 PRO Zenmuse X5 4K Camera Quad + 1 Tb47 Battery and 1 Tb48 Battery in Carbon Fiber Design + Hard Case + All Included Accessories + Free Drones Etc. Lanyard!

·         Ready-to-fly aerial system.

·         Live, wireless HD video transmission via DJI Lightbridge.

·         Dedicated remote with flight and camera controls.

·         Powerful app to adjust camera settings, edit videos, and more.

2. DJI T600 Inspire 1 Drone

Price: $2,199.00 (amazon.com)

The advanced technology is showered on the drone model DJI T600 Inspire 1 Drone. The ready to fly drones have dual controllers which assist you to fly with a friend and share the joy. One person can fly it while

the other can control the camera for the best flight footage to be taken.

It is embedded with the strong fiber arm lifts which focus on the way you shoot. Unrestricted and clear 360-degree view of the world for the creation of images. The 4K camera can shoot up to 4k video. The megapixel is 12 with the Inspire 1 camera as well.

The camera lens has 9 elements in 9 divisions including the aspherical element which provides clear-cut clarity. It is also featured with Adobe DNG camera for flight telemetry. Auto takeoff and landing are just a click button.

Highlighted features:

·         Embedded with 360-degree aerial video and photography.

·         Modular camera with gimbal design for quick transportation 720 HD live video output.

·         Control by the photographer and the pilot using a gimbal and model.

·         An innovative and latest algorithm with high capacity battery. Battery status tracked.

·         Transmitter fitted to FPV needs with special buttons for photos and videos.

·         Home functions available with smartphone controllable.

·         The operating Frequency is 5.728 GHz-5.8 Ghz, 2.4GHz-2.4GHz. The output port for video USB, HDMI with the dual user capability which is Host and Slave is available.

3. DJI Phantom 3 Professional Drone with 4K UHD Video Camera

Price: $799.00 (amazon.com)

Professional modeled of DJI Phantom 3 Professional Drone with 4K UHD Video Camera is embedded with the qualified aspects and features by the DJI. The latest version of the Phantom 3 in 2versions is with the high-end which is capable of having 4k videos and the genuinely advanced with shoots of 1080p. The picture captures are 12MP stills as it is induced with ½.3 Sony EXMOR sensors. This offers a lens of f/2.8 with 20mm equal angle of view. A 3Axis gives the drone a steady fighting approach. The UHD professional model captures 4096 x 2160 4K videos at 24 p or 3840 x 2160 at 24p or 30p.Live streaming is possible through the DJIs Pilot application to the YOUTUBE. Both the models have the capacity of 1920 x 1080 24/30/60p.Access to camera setting including, ISO shutter speed and the exposure compensation is featured. The phantom 3 upgrades with the battery unit for the better in flights sensors and a speed charger as well.

Highlighted features:

·         RAW support for quality images. It has a mobile application too. It includes manual control Greater control with wider creative options in the sky.

·         Innovative visual positioning system without GPS, the indoor positioning is enabled with easy take off and land with a push button.

·         Light-bridge technology as it enables the pilot to see the focus of the Phantom 3 camera in seeing HD (720p) from a distance up to 1 mile with the absence of the latency.

·         The flying camera clicks photos less than a minute with professional quality videos from the sky.

·         The models shoot 12-megapixel photos using 94 FOV (Field of view) with distortion free lens.

4. 3DR Solo Drone Kit

Price:   $999.00 (amazon.com)

Designed from the ground up as a companion to the GoPro HERO, the Solo Quadcopter with Gimbal from 3D Robotics features aerial imaging-specific flight modes including Cablecam mode and Follow Me. A quad-rotor configuration, flight stability and autonomous flying are enabled thanks to a twin computer flight control system. The flight controller relies on GPS for navigational coordinates, plus uses data from gyros, accelerators, and other sensors to keep the aircraft safely flying. The Solo includes the Solo Gimbal, a 3-axis stabilizer compatible with the a GoPro HERO3+ or HERO4 action camera. This is a ready-to-fly bundle, featuring a pre-bound transmitter (radio controller) that has been styled after a video game controller for more intuitive operation. In addition to dual joysticks for flying, it features dedicated dials for operating the Solo Gimbal. In addition to the transmitter, there is a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. The app provides full control over the aircraft, gimbal, and even the GoPro itself. A mount is provided so that you can mount your smartphone directly to the transmitter.

Highlighted features:

·         Capture Aerial Photos/Video with a GoPro; Linear Tracking with Cablecam Mode.

·         Follow Me: Tracks Your Mobile Device; HDMI Output on Transmitter.

·         Android and iOS Mobile Apps; Video Game-Style Controls.

·         Return Home and “Safety Net” Modes; One-Button Flying / “Pause” Button.

·         Operate GoPro Through App; Works with Optional Solo Gimbal.

5. Yuneec Q500 4K Typhoon Drone

Price:   $ 699.00.00 (amazon.com)

A completion level of ready-to-fly (RTF) means this version of the Q500 4K Typhoon Drones with CGO3-GB Camera, SteadyGrip, and Camera Aluminum Case Camera and Aluminum Case from Yuneec comes factory-assembled and that a pre-bound transmitter/ground station unit (radio controller) is included. More than just an RC multi-rotor, the Q500 4K Typhoon is designed for APV – aerial photography and video. To this end, it incorporates the CGO3-GB, a 3-axis gimbal-stabilized camera with 4K video recording, 1080p video recording at up to 120 fps, and shoots photos at 12-megapixels.

Highlighted features:

·         Personal Ground Station with built-in touchscreen.

·         Integrated 3-axis precision gimbal camera.

·         4K/30fps ultra high definition video, 1080p/120fps slow motion video.

·         User controlled video resolution, white balance and light exposure.

·         12 megapixel photos with No-Distortion Lens.

6. DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ Drone with FPV HD Video Camera and 3-Axis Gimbal

Price:   $398.00 (amazon.com)

The high-density model DJI Phantom 2 Vision + Drone with FPV camera and 3 Axis Gimbal is appreciably smooth with the video of crystal clear HD cameras and 3 Axis Gimbal. The stills are very

excellent and live streaming video is possible with the redesigned HD video camera. The FPV link is built within. The duration for flight time up to 25 minutes is possible with the 5200 –mAh battery.The GPS is available and the program features can be set up through the built – in USB port.

Highlighted Features:

·         Works with the 14 MP Still and 1080p Video.

·         Powerful WI-FI Downlink from smartphones.

·         Well-defined control through ios/Android App.

·         The flying duration is 25 minutes for the drone.

·         Well qualified and managed with the IOC or the Intelligent Orientation Control.

·         Properly designed with the self-tightening Prop and includes spare 5,200 Ah Battery.

7. Thunder Tiger Robotix Ghost Drone Kit

Price:   $1349.00 (thundertiger.com)

Filming videos and taking photos from drones is becoming a popular activity, allowing the hobbyist to capture stunning images from never before seen perspectives. TTRobotix’s latest GHOST+ camera quadcopter package for GoPro Hero 3 and new GoPro Hero 4 Black can allow an individual to capture these images via the $1,350 quadcopter made by Thunder Tiger. The quadcopter, has four propellers, a removable battery and comes equipped with a GoPro gimbal stabilizer attached to the bottom, which can record shake-free, high-resolution images and high-definition video. The GHOST+ has a “follow me” feature that would allow the quadcopter to autonomously track a user.

Highlighted Features:

·         Max Payload: 0.81kg; Max Take-off Weight: 2.25kg; Max Flight Time: 25minutes.

·         Enlarged frame plates provides abundant space for electronic system sand easier to install various auxiliary equipment required for aerial photography.

·         Intelligent power system provides battery capacity check and anti spark design.

·         Matte black finish body shell with sleek scheme.

·         Retractable landing skid provides better view of camera lens.

8. Nova Tech US WINGSLAND Minivet Kit

Price:   $795.00 (amazon.com)

Select a location or object to focus on, and your WINGSLAND MINIVET will continuously face it as you fly, or circle around it automatically. The Forward Direction is the nose direction, it is useful for your find the nose direction when the aircraft flying too far to distinguish. When the rc drone files beyond the control distance or loses signal, your WINGSLAND MINIVET GPS remembers the exact spot that it took off from. Wherever your aircraft is flying, tap a button to have it return right back home. The monitor makes you feel as though the camera is right in your hands, allowing you to see a live view, control the shutter, change settings, and access a wealth of unmissable features. Fly for up to 25 minutes on a single charge. High-end professional multiplaying power flight battery adopted modular design which actualized easy installation and battery level indicating function.

Highlighted Features:

·         FORWARD DIRECTION LOCK MODE: The Forward Direction is the nose direction, it is useful for you find the nose direction when the aircraft flying too far to distinguish.

·         HIGH-ACCURACY REMOTE CONTROLLER: with 10 channels controller makes you operate it easily without taking off your hands to fulfill all the flight modes.

·         3-AXIS STABILIZED GIMBAL: High-Precision 3-Axis Gimbal with Vibration absorber sponge will eliminate effectively the vibration of the Aircraft.

·         FLIGHT ORIENTATION AND PARAMETERS DISPLAY IN REAL TIME: Integrated image transmission makes it possible for you to control flying direction and flight parameters any time.

·         HIGH GPS POSITIONING AND HOVERING: Leave heart alone quietly and far from noises. The flawless pictures satisfy you with high-quality camera and stable operating.

9. Chroma Flight-Ready Drone with Stabilized CGO3 4K Camera and ST-10+ Transmitter

Price:   $ 2214.33 (amazon.com)

If you’re looking for an easy way to jump into the exciting world of 4K aerial photography, this Chroma package has everything you need. -Captures smooth, steady aerial video in stunning 4K definition -No-distortion camera lens eliminates fisheye effect -Easy to fly – no experience necessary -Everything in one box -30 minute flight times (Dependent on flying style and/or wind conditions.) -Advanced SAFE Plus technology -Smart Mode for beginner pilots -AP Mode for experienced pilots -Autonomous Follow Me and Tracking modes -Return Home function -Live video and telemetry info on controller display -Uses GLONASS and U.S. GPS for greater accuracy and reliability -Mast-mounted GPS antenna for superb signal reception.

Highlighted Features:

·         Captures smooth, steady aerial video in stunning 4K definition.

·         No-distortion camera lens eliminates fisheye effect.

·         Easy to fly – no experience necessary.

·         Everything in one box.

·         30 minute flight times.

10. BLADE 350 QX3 AP Combo RTF: C-Go2 Drone

Price:   $450.00 (amazon.com)

The Blade 350 QX3 gives you two flight modes that have been specially programmed for capturing aerial video and images. Both feature self-leveling and use GPS and altitude sensors to precisely hold position in a hover. SAFE technology will even land the aircraft for you if you activate the Return Home function. Perfect for first-time drone flyers. In Smart Mode, the 350 QX3 will always fly in whatever direction the control stick is pushed. This is called Stick Relativity. It doesn’t matter which way the nose is pointed. If you move the control stick to the right, even if the aircraft is spinning, it will fly to the right. Smart Mode also creates a SAFE Circle barrier that prevents the aircraft from flying too close to the pilot. The Blade 350 QX3 responds to control inputs like a conventional RC aircraft without Stick Relativity. It also gives the pilot more control authority by turning off the SAFE Circle and allowing steeper bank and pitch angles. This makes it possible to get faster panning and tracking shots when you’re shooting high-energy, action video.

Highlighted Features:

·         Mast-mounted GPS antenna for improved GPS performance.

·         5.8GHz Wi-Fi link for compatible iOS and Android devices.

·         Advanced SAFE™ (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology.

·         Smart Flight Mode – SAFE Circle barrier, stick relative control response and GPS/Altitude hold.

·         AP Flight Mode – faster panning and tracking response with GPS/Altitude hold.

·         Return Home function – aircraft returns to start up point and lands on its own.

·         Blade® CGO2 GB 16MP 1080p/60 camera with integrated 3-axis brushless gimbal.