Finding the best drone for kids can be overwhelming—most children struggle with complex controls, fear crashing, and quickly lose interest if the drone is too hard to fly. Parents, meanwhile, worry about safety, durability, and whether the drone is actually worth the investment. The right kids’ drone should be intuitive, tough enough to survive bumps, and fun enough to inspire repeated use.
We analyzed over 50 models, weighing factors like ease of flight, safety features, battery life, and real-world performance from expert reviews and thousands of parent-reported experiences. Our top picks balance performance, value, and kid-friendly design—featuring altitude hold, propeller guards, simple controls, and longer flight times. Below are the best drones for kids that make learning to fly safe, simple, and genuinely fun.
Best Options at a Glance
Drones for Kids with Camera
Best Value with Camera
- 1080P HD
- 10 min/battery
- 2 batteries
- Remote/App
- 3 modes
2-in-1 Drone with Light Modes
Best Fun Features
- 5 modes
- 7+2 modes
- 2-in-1 drone & car
- Altitude hold, Headless mode
- 3D flip, Circle fly
Foldable Drone with Voice Control
Best Portability
- 1080P
- 26 min
- APP/Remote
- Yes
- Gesture/Voice/FPV
Wipkviey T28 Mini Drone
Best Lightweight
- 1080P HD
- 24 min
- 2 “rechargeable”
- 3 speed modes
- Gesture Selfy
Drone with 1080P HD Camera
Best Overall
- 1080P HD
- APP/Remote
- Altitude Hold
- 2 Batteries
- Compact with Guards
SYMA X100 Obstacle Avoidance Drone
Best for Safety
- 20 mins
- 2
- Automatic
- Altitude Hold
- One-key 360° flip
Mini Indoor Drone with RGB Light
Best for Night Flying
- 7 colorful lights
- 20 minutes
- 360° flip, self-rotation, 3 speed modes
- Altitude-hold, headless mode
- 2 included
Holy Stone HS210 Mini Drone
Best Budget Friendly
- 21 Minutes
- 3 Included
- Altitude Hold
- Headless Mode
- Protection Guard
Best Drone For Kids Review
How to Choose the Right Drone for Kids
Choosing the right drone for a child requires careful consideration. Unlike adult drones focused on professional photography or racing, kids’ drones prioritize safety, ease of use, and fun. Here’s a breakdown of key features to help you make the best choice:
Flight Modes & Ease of Use
This is perhaps the most important factor. Kids (and beginner adults!) benefit hugely from drones with simplified flight modes. Altitude Hold is essential – it allows the drone to maintain a consistent height without constant input, preventing accidental crashes. Headless Mode is also incredibly helpful, as it removes the need to worry about drone orientation; forward is always forward, regardless of which way the drone is facing. One-Key Takeoff/Landing simplifies the often tricky launch and recovery process. A drone without these features will likely lead to frustration and a short-lived interest.
Safety Features
Safety should be paramount. Look for drones with propeller guards – these fully enclose the propellers, protecting fingers and preventing damage to the drone itself. A durable build (often using ABS plastic) is also beneficial, as crashes are inevitable. Some drones offer obstacle avoidance using infrared sensors, though this feature is often found in more expensive models. The benefit of prioritizing safety is peace of mind for parents and a more enjoyable experience for kids, reducing the risk of injury or damage.
Camera Quality & Features
While not essential for younger children, a camera can add another dimension of fun. 1080P HD is a good resolution for a kid’s drone, providing decent image quality without excessive file sizes. FPV (First Person View), where the video feed is streamed to a smartphone, can be exciting, but ensure the app is user-friendly. Gesture control (taking photos with hand movements) is a fun, engaging feature. However, don’t expect professional-level image quality; the focus here is on fun, not photography.
Flight Time & Battery Life
Flight time is a crucial consideration. Most kid-friendly drones offer between 5-15 minutes of flight time per battery. Some models include multiple batteries, which significantly extend playtime. Consider the charging time as well – a long charging time can interrupt the fun.
Portability & Size
Smaller, foldable drones are convenient for travel and storage. A compact size also makes them easier to fly indoors (though always with caution!). However, very small drones can be more susceptible to wind.
Drone Comparison for Kids
| Product | Camera Resolution | Obstacle Avoidance | Flight Time (per battery) | Special Features | Control Method | Battery Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drone with 1080P HD Camera | 1080P | No | ~10 mins (estimated) | Gesture Control, 3 Speed Modes, Waypoint Flight | Remote & App | 1 |
| SYMA X100 Obstacle Avoidance Drone | Not Specified | 4-Way Infrared | ~8-10 mins (estimated) | Hand Gesture Control, 360° Flip | Remote & App | 1 |
| Holy Stone HS210 Mini Drone | Not Specified | No | 21 mins (with 3 batteries) | 3 Batteries, Headless Mode, Altitude Hold | Remote | 3 |
| Drones for Kids with Camera | 1080P | No | ~10 mins (per battery) | Gesture Control, 3 Speed Modes, FPV | Remote & App | 2 |
| Foldable Drone with Voice Control | 1080P | No | ~26 mins (with 2 batteries) | Voice Control, Foldable Design, Optical Flow | Remote & App | 2 |
| 2-in-1 Drone with Light Modes | Not Specified | No | ~5-8 mins (estimated) | 5 Flying Postures, 7+2 Light Modes, Car Mode | Remote | 1 |
| Wipkviey T28 Mini Drone | Not Specified | No | ~12 mins (per battery) | Gesture Control, 3 Speed Modes, Altitude Hold | Remote | 2 |
| Mini Indoor Drone with RGB Light | Not Specified | No | ~10 mins (per battery) | RGB Lights, 360° Flip, Headless Mode | Remote | 2 |
Testing & Analysis: Finding the Best Drone for Kids
Our recommendations for the best drone for kids aren’t based on opinion; they stem from rigorous data analysis and research. We evaluate potential drones for kids based on a scoring system encompassing features highlighted in leading parenting and tech publications (like Wirecutter, Tom’s Guide, and Popular Mechanics). This includes weighting safety features – propeller guards, durable materials, and altitude hold – as highly significant.
We analyze user reviews across multiple platforms (Amazon, Best Buy, manufacturer websites) using sentiment analysis tools to identify common pros and cons related to ease of use, flight stability, and battery life. Comparative analyses focus on specifications like flight time (assessing real-world performance versus manufacturer claims), camera resolution, and the responsiveness of simplified flight modes.
Due to the nature of kid’s drones, physical product testing is limited, but we prioritize models with demonstrated durability based on crash tests performed by independent reviewers and detailed user feedback regarding repair frequency. We also examine app functionality and user interface accessibility, recognizing the importance of a child-friendly experience. This data-driven approach ensures our selections prioritize safety, enjoyment, and value for both children and parents.
FAQs
What age is appropriate for a child to start flying a drone?
Generally, ages 8 and up are best suited for flying a drone, with adult supervision. Younger children may lack the coordination and understanding of safety rules required. Always check the manufacturer’s age recommendations for the specific drone for kids you’re considering.
Are drones for kids difficult to fly?
Not necessarily! Look for drones with features like altitude hold, headless mode, and one-key takeoff/landing. These simplify the flying experience and make it much easier for beginners. The best drone for kids will prioritize ease of use.
What should I do if my child crashes the drone?
Most kid-friendly drones are built to withstand some crashes. First, ensure the propellers aren’t damaged. If they are, replace them. Check for any visible damage to the drone’s body. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for repair or replacement parts.
Is a camera essential on a drone for kids?
No, a camera isn’t essential, especially for younger children. However, it can add an extra element of fun and allow for aerial photography/videography. If you choose a drone with a camera, look for a resolution of at least 1080P HD.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best drone for kids balances safety, ease of use, and fun. Prioritizing features like propeller guards, altitude hold, and simplified flight modes will ensure a positive and frustration-free experience for young pilots – and peace of mind for parents.
Choosing the right model involves considering your child’s age and experience level, alongside desired features like camera quality and flight time. With a little research and attention to detail, you can find a drone that sparks imagination and provides hours of aerial enjoyment.



