10 Best Foldable Drones: Compact & Portable Options for 2024

As I explored the top 10 foldable drones of 2024, I discovered they are ideal for enthusiastic photographers seeking compact, yet powerful options. Models like the DJI Mini 2 shine with a 4K camera, providing crisp images and advanced features, such as OcuSync 2.0.

Others, like the NEHEME NH760, thrive with long flight times and user-friendly controls. Important considerations include camera resolution, battery life, stability features like altitude hold, and portability.

Each drone offers unique capabilities to elevate your aerial photography experience, making them valuable for anyone aiming to capture high-quality visuals from above. There’s more to reveal with each model’s specific benefits.

1. SYMA Mini Drone (best foldable drone)

Specification	Details
Camera	720P HD camera
Flight Time	Up to 15 minutes
Transmission Distance	N/A
Weight	N/A
Battery	Built-in high-capacity battery (exact capacity not specified)
Max Speed	1.5 meters per second (with speed switch mode)
Size	Folded: 2.42 x 2.42 x 1.18 inches, Unfolded: 6.15 x 5.12 inches
Features
Altitude Hold	Maintains a stable altitude for easy flight and smooth videos/photos.
360° Flip	Performs 3D flips for aerial stunts.
Trajectory Flight	Draw a flight path on your smartphone and the drone will follow it.
Speed Switch Mode	Switch between different speed modes for beginners and experienced users.
VR Mode	Compatible with VR headsets for an immersive flying experience.
Headless Mode	Simplifies controls by eliminating the need to worry about drone orientation.
Gesture Control	Control the drone with hand gestures (specific gestures not specified).
Gravity Sensing	Tilt your smartphone to control the drone’s movements.

The SYMA Mini Drone, with its foldable and portable design, is perfect for newcomers interested in exploring aerial photography. This user-friendly gadget features a 720P HD camera, allowing you to capture stunning shots from the sky.

You’ll appreciate how it simplifies flying with Headless Mode and Altitude Hold, and you can even perform 3D flips and customize your flight paths via a mobile app.

With up to 15 minutes of flight time and a control range of 115 feet, you’ve got plenty of room to explore your skills. It’s tailored for beginners with selectable High and Low-Speed Modes, making your first steps into drone piloting as smooth as possible.

Best For: Beginners and hobbyists looking for an easy-to-use, robust, and portable drone for introductory aerial photography.

Pros:

• Its portable and foldable design makes it highly convenient for transport and storage.
• Features like Headless Mode and Altitude Hold simplify the flying experience for beginners.
• Durable construction that withstands crashes, enhancing its suitability for new users.

Cons:

• Flight control issues and veering off course can challenge inexperienced pilots.

2. Potensic ATOM SE (folding drone)

Specification	Details
Max Flight Time	28 minutes (no payload, indoor hovering)
Max Speed	5 m/s (Sport Mode); 16m/s (Ascent Speed)
Max Wind Speed Resistance	38km/h (Level 5)
Hovering Accuracy Range	Vertical: ±0.1m (with Vision Positioning); ±0.5m (with GPS Positioning); Horizontal: ±0.3m (with Vision Positioning); ±1.5m (with GPS Positioning)
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C
Transmission
Transmission Frequency	2.400 – 2.4835GHz
Max Transmission Distance (unobstructed, free of interference)	4km
Video Transmission System	DJI O2
Image Transmission Quality	720p
Physical
Takeoff Weight	< 249g (includes battery and propellers)
Dimensions (Unfolded)	88x143x58mm (propellers included)
Dimensions (Folded)	80x242x58mm (propeller blades excluded)
Diagonal Distance	219mm
Battery
Model	DSBT02A
Capacity	2500mAh
Voltage	7.2V
Battery Type	Li-ion
Energy	18Wh
Battery Weight	103g
Working Temperature	0°C to 40°C
Camera
Sensor	1/1.3” CMOS
Lens	FOV: 118° Aperture: F2.2
Effective Pixels	12MP
ISO Range	100-6400
Photo Resolution	4608×2592
Video Resolution	4K@30fps, 2.7K@30fps, 1080p@60fps
Image Format	JPG/JPEG+RAW/DNG
Video Format	MP4 (H.264)
Max Video Bitrate	40Mbps

If you’re a photography enthusiast often on the move, the Potensic ATOM SE GPS Drone, with its lightweight and foldable design, proves ideal for capturing stunning 4K aerial images.

Weighing under 249g, it’s easy to carry wherever you go. You’ll enjoy a lengthy 62 minutes of flight time with two batteries included, ensuring you don’t miss a shot.

The drone’s 4K EIS camera, equipped with ShakeVanish technology, delivers sharp, stable footage. It offers a broad 118° field of view and can adjust vertically from +20° to -90°, giving you a range of perspectives.

With features like Follow Me and Circle Flight, the Potensic ATOM SE enhances your aerial photography experience, making it a top choice for capturing high-quality images and videos.

Best For: Adventurous photographers and videographers seeking a portable, high-quality drone for dynamic aerial shots.

Pros:

• Extended flight time of 62 minutes with dual battery setup enhances longer shooting sessions.
• Lightweight and foldable design makes it highly portable and travel-friendly.
• Advanced imaging technologies like 4K EIS camera and ShakeVanish ensure crisp, stable footage.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with image stability under certain flying conditions.

3. Topliu 4K Brushless Motor Drone (foldable drones)

Specification	Detail
Flight Time	Approximately 10-15 minutes per battery
Battery	Modular batteries, 3.7V, 1800mAh capacity
Max Speed	Not specified in the provided images (check product details), but described as “high-speed flight”
Size	11.22in x 11in x 2.75in (28.5cm x 28cm x 7cm)
Camera	Pro-level dual camera, controllable, 90° adjustable angle, 50x digital zoom, 120° wide-angle lens, 4K high-definition quality
Additional Features	Obstacle avoidance Altitude hold Trajectory flight planning One-click stunts Follow me mode Headless mode One-button takeoff/landing 3 Speed modes LED lights

For enthusiasts seeking top-tier aerial photography, this 4K Brushless Motor Drone equipped with a high-definition camera and advanced obstacle avoidance system is your ideal choice. It’s packed with features that guarantee you capture stunning visuals effortlessly.

The drone’s brushless motor isn’t only powerful but also offers a quieter flight, perfect for getting those undisturbed shots. You’ll love the built-in altitude hold system that stabilizes flight, making it easier to focus on getting the right angle with the camera’s 90° adjustment capability.

Navigating through tight spaces is a breeze thanks to the trajectory flight function. Plus, its ultra-long battery life means you can enjoy extended flying sessions. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned flyer, the one-button takeoff/landing and 3-speed gears provide a user-friendly experience every time.

Best For: Enthusiasts and hobbyists looking for a high-quality drone that combines advanced features with ease of use for exceptional aerial photography.

Pros:

• A powerful brushless motor ensures a quieter and more efficient flight.
• Advanced obstacle avoidance system enhances safety during flight.
• 4K high-definition camera with a 90° adjustable angle provides superior image quality.

Cons:

• Moderate customer reviews with an average rating of 3.0 out of 5 stars.

4. Onlyliua Foldable Drone

Specification	Detail
Flight Time	Approximately 15 minutes
Battery	Rechargeable LiPo battery with overvoltage protection
Size	small drone
Camera	HD 1080p camera with adjustable angle (up to 90 degrees), capable of capturing photos and videos with frame rate.
Motor Type	Powerful Brushless Motors
Features	Optical positioning, Headless Mode, gesture control, intelligent following, obstacle avoidance
Additional Information	Includes a portable bag, spare fan blades, and remote control batteries. Wi-Fi real-time transmission for sharing photos and videos. Suitable for beginners due to intuitive controls.

Adults seeking advanced aerial photography capabilities will find the foldable drone with a 1080P camera an ideal choice. Equipped with powerful brushless motors, it offers a longer lifespan and reduced power consumption, ensuring that you’re investing in quality and efficiency.

The real-time image transmission allows you to capture sharp, high-definition photos and videos from the skies, while the adjustable camera angle provides flexibility in shooting angles.

This drone isn’t just about capturing great shots; it’s also designed for ease of use and safety. Features like optical positioning, Headless Mode, gesture control, and obstacle avoidance enhance its usability.

You’ll appreciate the long battery life, approximately 15 minutes, which is perfect for extended sessions of capturing stunning aerial views. Plus, the included carrying case makes it incredibly portable, ideal for your outdoor adventures.

Best For: Enthusiasts and hobbyists looking for a high-quality, versatile drone for advanced aerial photography and videography.

Pros:

• Powerful brushless motors enhance the drone’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.
• Features such as gesture control and obstacle avoidance provide an easier and safer flying experience.
• The portable design with a carrying case makes it convenient for travel and outdoor use.

Cons:

• A limited flight time of approximately 15 minutes may require additional batteries for extended use.

5. Foldable Drone with 1080P HD Camera

Specification	Detail
Flight Time	Up to 12 minutes
Transmission Distance	N/A
Weight	N/A
Battery	3.7V 1800mAh
Max Speed	3 Speed Gears (specific speeds not provided)
Size	25cm x 20cm x 5.5cm (folded)
Camera	1080p HD camera

You’ll capture stunning high-definition aerial photos and videos effortlessly with the Foldable Drone, equipped with a 1080P HD camera and a noiseless upgraded power brushless motor. It’s perfect for your adventure needs, combining high-end technology and user-friendly features in a compact package.

The drone’s foldable design means you can easily carry it in the included case, making it ideal for travel. With features like altitude hold, high-speed rotation, and gesture control, you’re set for a seamless flying experience.

Plus, the LED lights and three-speed gears allow for spectacular nighttime flights and varied flying styles. This drone, designed by Onlyliua, ensures you don’t just fly; you soar with style and efficiency.

Best For: Enthusiasts and adventurers looking for a portable high-performance drone with advanced imaging capabilities.

Pros:

• High-definition 1080P FPV camera ensures quality images and videos.
• The foldable and lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
• Features multiple intelligent flight modes, including gesture control and altitude hold for enhanced usability.

Cons:

• Battery capacity may require frequent recharging for extended use sessions.

6. Generic HD1080P Camera UAV Drone

Specification	Detail
Flight Time	Up to 15 minutes
Transmission Distance	Not specified (2.4GHz FPV transmission)
Weight	Under 250g
Battery	3.7V modular battery, easy to install and take
Max Speed	Not specified
Size	Foldable design, specific dimensions not provided
Camera	Capable of taking photos and videos, real-time transmission, likely 720p or 1080p (exact resolution not specified)

If you’re seeking a drone that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, the HD1080P Camera UAV Drone with Mobile Phone Control and Obstacle Avoidance is ideal for capturing stunning aerial photography.

You’ll love how it folds neatly into a carrying case, making it a breeze to take anywhere. With a weight under 250g, you won’t need FAA registration, which is a huge plus.

This drone isn’t just about easy transport; it’s packed with features that enhance usability. You can control it right from your mobile phone, and its dual HD1080P cameras guarantee crisp, clear images and video.

The brushless motor keeps it stable, even in strong winds, providing smooth video transmission back to your phone via WiFi. Plus, the added LED lights mean you can fly at night without losing sight of your drone.

Best For: Enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, portable drone with advanced features suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

Pros:

• Dual HD1080P cameras and brushless motors ensure high-quality images and stable flight.
• Comprehensive mobile control with multiple automated flight modes enhances user experience.
• Lightweight and foldable design with a carrying case for easy transport and storage.

Cons:

• Limited battery life of up to 15 minutes may require frequent recharging during extended use.

7. Sopatenor Foldable Drone

Specification	Details
Flight Time	Up to 12 minutes
Weight	lightweight due to the materials used (plastic, metal, and electronic components).
Battery	3.7V 1500mAh
Size	9.84in / 25cm (both length and width)
Camera	1080p HD FPV camera with 110° wide-angle lens
Additional Features	Altitude hold, headless mode, one-key takeoff/landing, 360° flip, gesture control, circle fly, emergency stop.

Capture breathtaking aerial shots easily with the foldable drone equipped with a 1080P HD camera, perfect for photography enthusiasts. This drone features a 110° wide-angle lens, providing you with an immersive experience as you capture stunning vistas.

It’s designed with altitude hold technology to guarantee stable flight, giving you clear, sharp images every time.

You’ll enjoy a suite of functions like High-Speed Rotation, Circle Fly, and Gesture Control. The portable design includes a carrying case and spare fan blades, making it easy to take your drone on any adventure.

Built from durable materials, this drone withstands the rigors of outdoor use. With up to 12 minutes of flight time, you’re set to explore and capture every moment.

Best For: Photography enthusiasts and adventurers looking for an easy-to-carry, high-performance aerial camera system.

Pros:

• Equipped with a 1080P HD FPV camera and a 110° wide-angle lens for high-quality, immersive aerial photos and videos.
• Features multiple flying modes like Altitude Hold, Circle Fly, and Gesture Control, enhancing the flying experience.
• Includes portable carrying case and spare fan blades, making it convenient for travel and outdoor use.

Cons:

• Limited flight time of up to 12 minutes per battery charge, which may require frequent recharging or spare batteries for extended use.

8. RADCLO Mini Drone

Specification	Detail
Flight Time	24 minutes (with 2 batteries)
Transmission Distance	196ft
Weight	3.3 ounces (94g)
Battery	Two rechargeable drone batteries, with over-current protection and an emergency stop. 90 minutes charging time per battery.
Size	Unfolded: 11.2 x 10 x 2.17 inches
Camera	1080P HD FPV camera, 90° Electric Adjustable Camera, can be adjusted remotely up to 90 degrees.
Additional Features	Optical flow positioning, key takeoff/landing, Altitude hold, 3D flip, Headless mode, Trajectory flight, Gravity control, Auto-follow, Gesture photo/video, VR mode

For enthusiasts of aerial photography, the Mini Drone with its 1080P HD camera and stable hover capabilities offers an ideal starting point.

You’ll find its optical flow positioning camera guarantees a steady hover, making it perfect for capturing clear videos and images. The camera is adjustable up to 90 degrees, allowing you to get the best aerial shots from various angles.

Beyond basic flying, this drone includes features like 3D flip, headless mode, and trajectory flight, which add fun and versatility to your flying experience. It comes with two rechargeable batteries, guaranteeing longer flight times.

You can control it easily through a cool remote or the RADXFLY app, enhancing connectivity and control options.

This compact, lightweight drone isn’t only portable but also user-friendly, making it a top pick for both beginners and more experienced users.

Best For: Beginners and hobbyists looking for an easy-to-use drone with advanced photography capabilities.

Pros:

• Equipped with a 1080P HD camera that adjusts up to 90 degrees for versatile shooting angles.
• Features stable hover capabilities with optical flow positioning for clearer images.
• Includes multiple fun flight modes like 3D flip, headless mode, and trajectory flight.

Cons:

• Limited to Wi-Fi connectivity which may restrict range and usage areas.

9. NEHEME NH760 Foldable Drone

Specification	Details
Flight Time	15-16 minutes per battery (2 batteries included)
Transmission Distance	Max Flight Distance: 328 feet / 100m (Outdoors and unobstructed) Max Transmission Distance (Camera): 164 feet / 50m (Outdoors and unobstructed)
Weight	193g / 6.8oz
Battery	Capacity: 1800mAhVoltage: 3.7VType: Li-Po battery Charging Time: 150-180 minutes (Depends on charging power)
Max Speed	3 speed options (specific speed not provided)
Camera	Photo Resolution: HD 19201080 Video Resolution: HD 1280720 Features: 1080P HD, 110° wide-angle, and 90° adjustable
Additional Features	FPV (First-Person-View) real-time video transmission Altitude Hold Headless Mode 3D Flips Gravity Sensor Voice Control VR Mode

The NEHEME NH760, featuring a 1080P HD adjustable camera, offers you a versatile and user-friendly option for capturing stunning aerial photographs. It’s designed with both adults and kids in mind, making it a great tool for family bonding or personal exploration.

You’ll find it easy to control via remote, and with a Wi-Fi connection, sharing your shots is a breeze.

Weighing just 193 grams and equipped with a robust 1800 mAh battery, this drone provides up to 32 minutes of flight time. It’s engineered to handle winds well, ensuring stable videos and sharp images even on breezy days.

The foldable design means you can easily take it anywhere, tucked safely in its carrying case. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to add a drone to your collection, the NH760 fits the bill perfectly.

Best For: Families and beginners looking for an easy-to-use, versatile drone for recreational photography and bonding activities.

Pros:

• 1080P HD adjustable camera for high-quality aerial photos and videos.
• Long flight time of 32 minutes with a durable 1800 mAh battery.
• Foldable and lightweight design, ideal for travel and outdoor use.

Cons:

• Some users report issues with camera quality not meeting expectations.

10. DJI Mini 2

Specification	Details
Flight Time	Up to 34 minutes (International version), 31 minutes (JP version)
Transmission Distance	Up to 12 km (FCC), 8 km (CE/SRRC)
Weight	Less than 249 g (International version)
Max Speed	16 m/s (Sport Mode)
	10 m/s (Normal Mode)
	6 m/s (Cine Mode)
Size	Folded: 145×90×62 mm (International/JP version)
	Unfolded (without propellers): 171×245×62 mm (International/JP version)
	Unfolded (with propellers): 251×362×72 mm (International version), 245×368×70 mm (JP version)
	Diagonal Distance: 213 mm
Camera	Sensor: 1/1.3″ CMOS, Effective Pixels: 12 MP
	Lens: FOV 82.1°, 24 mm format equivalent, f/1.8 aperture
	ISO Range: 100-6400
	Electronic Shutter Speed: 4-1/8000 s
	Max Image Size: 4000×3000
	Still Photography Modes: Single shot, AEB, Timed shots, Smart Photo modes
	Video Resolution: Up to 4K 60fps
	Video Format: MP4 (H.264/MPEG-4 AVC)

If you’re a travel enthusiast seeking compact aerial photography solutions, the DJI Mini 2‘s ultralight, foldable design with a 4K camera makes it an ideal choice. Weighing less than 249 grams, it fits perfectly in your backpack, providing 31 minutes of flight time to capture stunning views.

You’ll appreciate the 3-axis gimbal that guarantees smooth footage, essential for high-quality aerial photos and videos.

Moreover, the Mini 2’s OcuSync 2.0 technology allows for up to 10km of HD video transmission with minimal interference, letting you explore and record remote landscapes effortlessly.

Whether you’re battling high winds or reaching new heights, this drone’s robust performance won’t let you down. It’s not just about flying; the intelligent modes and easy editing options enhance your footage, making every shot a masterpiece.

Best For: Travel enthusiasts and content creators looking for a lightweight, portable drone with high-quality imaging capabilities.

Pros:

• The Ultralight and a foldable design make it extremely portable and travel-friendly.
• Advanced OcuSync 2.0 technology ensures long-range HD video transmission with minimal interference.
• 3-axis gimbal with a 4K camera provides stable and high-resolution video and photo capture.

Cons:

• Limited flight time of 31 minutes may require additional batteries for extended shooting sessions.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Foldable Drones to Buy in 2024

When selecting a foldable drone for aerial photography, there are several key factors I need to take into account.

I’ll examine the flight time, camera quality, portability, battery life, and stability features to make sure I get the best value for my needs.

Each of these aspects plays an important role in determining the performance and suitability of a drone for capturing high-quality images.

Flight Time Considerations

Considering flight time is essential when choosing foldable drones, as it directly influences the duration and quality of aerial photography sessions. Longer flight times allow for extended opportunities in capturing images and videos, enhancing the overall flying experience.

It’s wise to opt for drones that come with multiple batteries or feature longer battery life to guarantee uninterrupted sessions. Since factors like wind and complex maneuvers can drain battery quickly, picking a drone with a robust battery capacity is vital.

Additionally, drones with fast charging capabilities are a game-changer, greatly reducing downtime between flights. Always consider these aspects to maximize your drone’s effectiveness and enjoy prolonged aerial photography without frequent interruptions.

Camera Quality Analysis

After examining flight time, let’s now focus on the importance of camera quality in foldable drones for excellent aerial photography. Camera quality is vital for capturing clear, detailed images and videos from the sky.

The resolution is a key factor; higher resolutions like 4K offer notably sharper footage. Sensor quality also impacts image clarity, especially in varying light conditions. Additionally, the type of lens and stabilization technology play essential roles.

Wide-angle lenses can capture expansive views, and effective stabilization ensures smooth, crisp images even during motion. When choosing a drone, consider these features based on the content you aim to create, making sure the camera meets your specific needs for aerial photography.

Portability and Weight

Foldable drones, designed for easy transport and storage, offer unparalleled convenience for photographers on the move. They’re incredibly lightweight, which is perfect for travel and hikes where every ounce counts.

What’s more, if you choose a drone under 250g, you won’t need to worry about FAA registration, which is a huge plus for casual users. The compact nature of these drones means you can quickly get them up in the air to capture stunning shots, no matter where your adventures take you.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, their portability makes them a top choice for anyone looking to embark on aerial photography without being weighed down.

Battery Life Impact

When selecting a foldable drone, it’s important to consider battery life as it greatly impacts the duration and quality of your aerial photography sessions. Longer battery life means more time in the air, capturing stunning visuals without the need to land for a recharge.

I’ve found that drones with a higher mAh capacity not only offer longer flight times but also guarantee smoother operations throughout the flight. For those like me who enjoy extensive outdoor shoots, opting for a drone with robust battery life is vital.

It minimizes disruptions and maximizes productivity, allowing us to focus more on capturing the perfect shot rather than worrying about power levels.

Stability Features Overview

Stability features in foldable drones, such as altitude hold and GPS systems, are essential for guaranteeing smooth and steady aerial footage. These elements, including optical flow positioning, are key for precise control, allowing me to focus on capturing the perfect shot without worrying about flight dynamics.

Advanced tech like gyroscopes and accelerometers also play a significant role, maintaining balance even in unpredictable conditions.

Additionally, wind resistance and obstacle avoidance sensors enhance the drone’s reliability, important for both beginners and pros like me who demand top-quality photos and videos.

Price Range Options

Considering the wide array of price options for foldable drones is essential, as they range from under $100 to several thousand dollars, depending on their features and capabilities.

It’s vital to assess how the price correlates with the drone’s technology, flight time, camera quality, and stability. You’ll find that more expensive drones typically offer superior features, which might justify the higher cost if excellent performance is a priority for you.

However, if you’re new to drones or have a tighter budget, there are many budget-friendly models that still provide decent functionality and quality. Always keep an eye out for deals or promotions, which can provide significant savings on your drone purchase.

Connectivity and Control

I’ll need to contemplate various connectivity and control options when selecting a foldable drone to guarantee a seamless and responsive flying experience. Wi-Fi connectivity is essential for smooth control and data transfer, making it easier to manage my drone directly from a smartphone or controller.

Precise remote control features are important for fine maneuvering, ensuring I can capture the perfect aerial shot without hassle. I must also consider the control range and signal strength. A strong, uninterrupted signal is critical for distant flights.

Additionally, I should check for compatibility with mobile apps or software, which can offer advanced control features, enhancing the drone’s flight capabilities and my overall experience.

Safety Measures Essentials

When selecting a foldable drone, it’s important to prioritize safety features that protect both the device and its surroundings. Make certain the drone comes equipped with propeller guards, which are vital for preventing accidents. Look for models featuring GPS and advanced obstacle avoidance systems to help avoid collisions.

It’s also critical to check for altitude hold and enhanced stability features, which contribute to smoother and safer flights. Additionally, choose drones with a low-battery return-to-home function, which is invaluable for preventing losses and crashes if the battery runs low.

Conclusion

In choosing the best foldable drone for aerial photography in 2024, focus on camera quality, stability features, and ease of transport.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, options like the DJI Mini 2 or the SYMA Mini offer great functionality and portability. Consider your specific needs, budget, and skill level to find the perfect drone.

Remember, a good drone not only captures stunning images but also enhances your overall shooting experience.