Drone Helicopters With Cameras

Traditionally, drone helicopters were meant solely for the use of military use. However, now such devices have crept into our mundane lives due to advancements in technology. Drones are now affordable and a household item! So why not give the little beast a shot? But with a medley of different brands and models of drone helicopters available in the market, picking one can be difficult. Thus, after testing different drone helicopters, we boiled down the list to 6 of the best copters that we came across. In this list, our best pick surfaced to be Syma S107. With excellent innovation, control, and stability, this model wins the award for the best overall drone helicopter for adults.

In this comprehensive article we have covered:

• A quick glance at the best drone helicopters with cameras
• A detailed review of each product
• Factors to consider before buying a drone helicopter

Quick Summary: 6 Drone Helicopters with Cameras

Our editors go through and research, test and qualify our recommended products. We receive commissions on purchases from certain links.

1. Best Overall:  1. Syma S107
   S107 sweeps the prize for the best overall drone helicopter out there.
   
2. Best Portability: 2. Cheerwing S107
   If you’re looking for a highly portable drone, this is your pal!
   
3. Best Control: 3. Syma S109G
   The best model out there when it comes to controlling.
   
4. Best Durability:  4. Syma S107H
   The resilient build of the device makes it tough against crashes and collisions.
   
5. Best Functional Model:  5. Cheerwing U12S Mini RC Helicopter with Camera
   This model comes with some of the best features and is accessible at a reasonable price.
   
6. Best Size:  6. Syma S100
   With super tiny size yet, an amazing black color, and provisions of all the prominent features of a drone
   

Highlights

Syma has gained a monopoly in the realm of helicopter drones, having manufactured countless phenomenal models! S107 is no exception to it. With this model, you get the utmost stability while flying long distances at a considerable height. Whether you are a novice or have some experience with drone flying, this is a perfect fit for all, making it highly versatile!

With the incorporation of the Gyro technology, you can try out different flying styles without compromising the stability. This innovation of this model gears it up for powerful functioning, despite having a small body. Do not be thrown off by the size. In fact, the small size of the copter is what makes it an ideal choice. The mini size makes the unit more agile and speedy. You will have much better control over the movements of the copter and maneuver it as per your wishes. Furthermore, this pocket terror is one of the most durable units out there. It can sustain numerous crashes and collisions unless there is some heavy internal damage. But that would be unlikely because due to the gyro technology. The upgraded metal frame protects the entrails from malfunction. Plus, you wouldn’t have to worry about the charging part because it gets the power directly from the controller, which demands AA batteries. It takes about 50-60 minutes to fully charge. 

The best feature of this unit is the single rear rotor and a coaxial rotor which allows precise movements for the remote control helicopter with camera. This, with the collaboration of gyro, boosts the individual performance manifold, making this an ideal choice for controller so fall skill levels! All the components of this model are pre-assembled. All you have to do is unbox thud beauty and get down to flying yet. It is that simple!

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE

• Can be a bit noisy

Highlights

While Syma may be the veterans of rc helicopter manufacturing, Cheerwing is not so behind either. It has manufactured some of the most demanded models, and the S107 stands testament to its excellence. With an exquisite design, brilliant rotors, and sturdy build, the S107 of Cheerwing has made some of the best helicopter drones in the market obsolete.

Not only does it comes with 3 channels, and 2 selectable frequencies, but the new innovation such as GYro technology incorporated in the system makes it a state-of-the-art design! The Gyroscope makes stability a second nature to the S107. However, ensure that the helicopter drone is not flown out of range. Though it can sustain different crashes and collisions to large extent, the mini size of the helicopter drone could have weakened internal parts due to a major crash.

However, since the unit is framed inside durable metal, you don’t have to panic even it endures a crash. It is an excellent product for kids and adults alike. Moreover, the lightweight of the unit makes it portable. Whether you want to fly the helicopter drone in your back lawn, or take a trip to hills and fly the drone helicopter through a lush valley, the lightweight nature of the copter makes it packable. The best part about this unit is, it comes with a flashing light in the front.

The LED could light your path even in darkness. Thus, this model is one of the very few ones that can be flown even at night or in low light without any impediment! This helicopter with camera can be charged from the controller directly, or via a USB port. It usually takes 50-60 minutes to charge fully and has a flight time of about 5-6 minutes.

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE

• Short-lasting battery

Highlights

When it comes to exquisite design, shape, and color, this model sweeps the prize by a mile! Syma hits the nail on the head with its S109G model which offers utmost control and stability while flying over all sorts of terrain and under virtually all weather conditions. The most special feature of this model. is its design. The olive color and military construction of the model make it a favorite among children. Moreover, the sturdy build makes it tough against collisions. However, the S109 due to its construction can be a little heavyweight.

While traveling, you might want to pack it inside a cushioned package to prevent any sort of damage to the exterior or the interior of the unit. Yet, this helicopter drone is one of the most durable choices out there. Moreover, if you’re looking for models that do not make much noise, you’ve found your pal. This device is not deafeningly loud. Even if you increase the speed while flying, the sound would still be moderate and won’t be translated into noise.

In case you notice the unit making noise, take it to a specialist and get it fixed. It could be internal damage or malfunction. Once it takes flight, it can cover a distance of about 8 meters, which is long when you compare this unit with its competitor s in the market. You could control its movement with precision and move the unit left/right, upwards/downwards, forwards, and back using a single but comprehensive controller. As for its battery, it comes pre-fitted in the system and only needs to replace when the extinguishment signs become evident.  You can use cell batteries or charge the system with the USB cable which comes along with the package.

Perfect for both indoors and outdoor use, the S109 of Syma is truly a treat for all helicopter lovers and is one of the bests in the market!

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE

• Landing skids are absent

 Highlights

If you are a beginner or want a helicopter drone for a child, you might want to consider the Syma 107H which offers amazing construction, unique features such as 1-key take-off and landing, and a long-lasting battery. Due to the tiny size yet sturdy build, this helicopter drone can be flown indoors if the living room is spacious enough.

The best feature of this unit is the altitude hold. With the altitude hold function, you could hold the rc helicopter at a certain height even if you release the controller. This way, the copter will hover in the air without any additional commands. Moreover, with the option to switch between high and low speed, you could make adjusting the speed easy. If you’re operating the rc helicopter indoors, you might want to keep the speed low to avoid colliding into the furniture or the walls.

Repeated blows to the helicopter drone could result in malfunction. It comes with a built-in camera which makes it perfect for indoor photography. Not only is such helicopters make excellent toys for kids, but these can also be used by professionals for testing and experimental purposes. A perfect choice for beginners and hobbyists, this copter comes with a built-in gyroscope that takes care of the stability and optimum control over the device even if it is being operated by a novice.

The Syma S107H has been constructed with durable metal, which alone makes it a fine choice in the market. However, the blades have been coated with safe material, thus, they won’t be of any harm to young children or toddlers. It is easy to operate and easy to manage.

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE

• Cannot function well outdoors

Highlights

The camera captures the view in 640 x 480p resolution, and the transmission distance is 30m. The helicopter runs on a 3.7V 350Mah Li-Po battery, and the transmitter operates on 4 x 1.5v AA batteries.

There is a high-speed and low-speed mode for users with different skill levels, making it perfect for beginners and professionals as well. 

The helicopter drone has a metal frame and flexible blades which can resist plenty of crashes. It uses 2.4Ghz frequency technology and enables more than two users to control this mini helicopter simultaneously.

The package contains a U12S mini helicopter, a controller, a USB charger, spare parts set, and an instruction manual.

Highlights

Syma store strikes again and even harder this time. This production broke the norms surrounding the drone helicopter as it became one of the tiniest drone helicopters for beginners in the world! Weighing just 7 ounces with the dimensions of 4.13 x 1.06 x 2.36, this mini drone helicopter offers the best of drones. This copter may be little, but it is nothing short of brilliance! With the provision of high-tech features such as altitude hold, gyroscope, one-key takeoff/landing, and LED lights, the S100 of Syma beats all the big boys in its league by a mile.

You can control this little beast with just two keys in stock! Moreover, the sturdy alloy construction of the unit makes it strong against collisions, despite the mini size.  You could just slip the unit in your pocket and be on your way to an open area for flying. however, you might want to careful while flying this in spacious areas, for obvious reasons.

The altitude hold features will ensure that the unit hovers in the air while you free your hands from the controller. Whether you are flying indoors or outdoors, you could count on this little beast to balance steadily despite the speed and the height. It can fly for 5-6 minutes straight without any problems!

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE

• May face issues with the battery

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Drone Helicopter

Since selecting the ideal drone helicopter can be tricky, you can look for the following things to choose the best model for all your needs;

1) Type

Just like anything any other piece of equipment, a helicopter drone too can come in different types. Drone helicopters are largely classified between Ready To Fly (RTF) and Almost ready to fly (ARF). As the name suggests RTF can be operated right after you bring them out from the box. All the components of this type are pre-assembled, and thus, no efforts from your side are required. meanwhile. (1)

ARF requires further assembling. You may need to buy certain components or fixers separately and build your drone helicopter. Drone helicopters can also be distinguished by their features. For example, FPV or first-person view drones are meant for real-time viewing. While drone helicopters with a camera are meant for recording aerial images and video.

PNP is another kind of drone helicopter in stock that comes without either the transmitter or the receiver. You may have to buy these crucial components separately and then assemble them with the PNP drone. BNF or new Bing and Fly drone helicopter come without a transmitter but you would get the receiver with the BNF drone. Once you link a compatible transmitter you will all be set to fly your helicopter drone and capture exquisite aerial images. (2)

2) Features

Features outline what special a particular brand and model has to offer. Features are a vital factor to consider because it essentially declares the performance level of the unit that you are considering. Certain features require much attention while buying the ideal drone helicopter with a camera for yourself.

• Material: What do you think is more durable, plastic or metal? Any rational person would say metal and indeed, metal-framed drones are much for sturdy than plastic. The construction of the helicopter drone determines its life span. Thus much consideration needs to be given to the material used to build the helicopter drone. However, if you have a tight budget and wish to go for a plastic drone, look for ABS plastic. It is affordable and considerably more durable.
• Range: Range plays a significant role in the overall performance of your helicopter drone. Beginners helicopter drones may have a range of 10-30 meters. Some may even have lower than that, but then they’re cheap models and generally meant for kids. An average drone helicopter may have a range of 25 meters, which should be preferred. Additionally, the protocol with batteries should also be given some thought.
• Flight Time: Flight time denotes for long helicopter drones can fly without any breaks of charge. A beginners drone helicopter can stay up for about 5-10 minutes. 7 minutes is ideal, while 10 minutes is exemplary. It all boils down to how much you’re willing to pay for the unit. You may also get a drone helicopter with a flight tie above 10 minutes, but those units can be expensive.

3) Camera

The most important component of the helicopter drones has emerged to be the camera. Most people buy helicopter drones solely because of the camera, and thus, the quality of the camera and the resolution of the images have many roles to play in the overall quality of your drone helicopter. While some helicopter drones, such as beginners copter, come with a built-in camera, there are plenty of models that don’t, but you could mount an external camera and reap its benefits.

The experience with photography though remains the same. However, the external camera might reduce the flight time, or tamper with the stability because of the added weight. Therefore, weigh your requirements and purchase a drone that meets all your requirements perfectly.

4) Spare Parts

Just like any other electronic, helicopter drones are prone to damage, wear and tear. You cannot expect to own a drone and not have it sustain some level of damage to some of its parts. At such a stage, you might need to replace the damaged parts with spare parts. But the question is, are the spare parts for your preferred choice available? If yes, then excellent.

If not, you might be advised to continue your search. Down the line, you will indeed need to replace some of the parts of your helicopter.  The spare parts in stock are available at amazon.com inc or its affiliates or can be bought from your local retail store.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drone Helicopters

How far can helicopter drones fly?

The answer to this question depends upon what helicopter brand and model you own. A beginners helicopter can fly at a height of  10-30 meters. If we are talking about advanced drones, you can easily expect a venture of about 1 km! It boils down to the innate specifications of the model you have bought. Moreover, the overall weight and build also contributed to the estimated height of the helicopter’s flight.

Do all drone helicopters have cameras?

In a nutshell, no! Not all drone helicopters come with a built-in camera. Most copters, specifically ARFs, would demand an external camera to be mounted into the system. Such copters may come with some kind of holder, on which, a separately bought camera could be mounted.

What happens if my drone helicopter crashes?

Drone copters can sustain damage to some extent. If you’ve crashed your plane for the first time, there is no need to panic as most drones come with anti-collision construction, making them protective against collisions. However, if the plane has crashed with considerable force or has sustained many crashes, you might want to consult a specialist. If any broken parts are reported, you could incorporate spare parts to make your drone as good as new!

Can I fly my drone helicopter at night?

While most drone helicopters are mainly meant for daytime flying, a lot of helicopters can be flown at night as well. If your copter has flashing lights or built-in LED, you could take your copter for a spin even in pitch darkness. The flashing light could enlighten your way forward, making night-time flying a piece of cake.

However, if your unit does not have a flashing light or anything similar to that, stick to operating the copter in light lest it crashes to the ground or collides with an erect object such as buildings or trees. Though, your helicopter with camera will not be able to capture images at night, unless it has IR.

Can drone helicopters be flown indoors?

A helicopter with camera can be flown indoors if it’s lightweight and small in size. Although you can find plenty of copters that are solely meant to be flown indoors, outdoor copters can function inside the house if the chances of collision are little. This can only be possible if the drone is tiny in size. 

Conclusion

Helicopter drones can make an excellent present for your child during birthdays or Christmas. Not only can kids have fun, but adults too could take this baby for a spin and have a great time. This is why drone helicopters are enormously in demand. This article included everything you need to know about drone helicopters. As we mentioned, after much testing, the Syma S107 emerged to be our best pick and we stand by this claim!

You may also like to check our other product guides for drones and cameras such as; Best Mini Drone with Camera, Best Mini Camera, Button Camera, and a lot more. 

References

(1) RTF, ARF – https://medium.com/@beagledrones/what-are-rtf-bnf-and-arf-drone-kits-800809567a87
(2) PNP – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaNxx2Y3jyc