Drone For GoPro Cameras: Choosing The Best One

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A drone gives you a birds-eye view of the landscape. One of the most rewarding aspects of flying a drone is being able to use a camera to capture images, videos, or live stream the scenery. GoPro cameras have the reputation for taking noticeably clear and concise photos and videos. GoPro cameras have become the number one choice for drone use, so you never miss a minute of the action. Picking the right drone for a GoPro camera lets you take aerial photos that far surpass any onboard camera for clarity and precision. In this article, we’ll explore picking the best drone for GoPro cameras.

Drones for GoPro

GoPro could have simply focused on only offering a superior action camera for sports enthusiasts, but they have implemented steps to embrace drones with their technology. The GoPro HERO9 Black and the GoPro MAX are all great choices. The HERO line stands out as the best of the best when it comes to action cameras.

There are many outstanding choices when it comes to drones for GoPro. The Blade and Yuneec lines have released impressive products. The DJI Phantom 2 stands out at the top of the list. A drone with extra mounts makes setup easier. Please remember, the GoPro camera series works well with any drone that has a 3-axis gimbal.

Using a GoPro With a Drone

When picking a drone for GoPro, you have many compatible choices such as the DJI Phantom 2. The Blade and Yuneec product lines are leaders. The DJI Phantom 2 and the Karma have been designed to house a camera. Also, drone lines that are compatible with a GoPro include Syma and Huban.

Modifying a Drone for GoPro

You can also modify drones to hold a GoPro camera. However, you will run into problems with the minis. The palm-sized drones and those that are smaller cannot carry the weight of a GoPro, especially the GoPro Max. Ideally, if you know that you want to use the action camera then you’ll need to look for the best drones for GoPros before deciding to look for models that have been specifically designed for mounting and can also attain adequate flight to achieve aerial footage while carrying the GoPro camera.

Karma Grip Benefits

The Karma Grip is engineered for usability and stabilization. It is designed as a stick with a gimbal that enables a smoother and clearer image. With the grip, you have full control of your GoPro camera. You can attach the gimbal to the GoPro mounts. The design helps make it easier for sports participants to film action on skis, bikes, snowboards, and more.

Exploring the Newest GoPro Cameras

The GoPro HERO8 and the GoPro HERO7 are both genuinely nice cameras. The HERO7 might be an older model but it features a responsive touch screen and 10MP photos with live stream stabilizing which makes it a fantastic choice for those on a budget. The GoPro HERO9 is a definite step up but it also costs more so you’ll need to weigh out the added features and their necessity. The GoPro Max is the newest action camera. It is considered three cameras in one with 360-degree footage, horizon leveling, MAX Hypersmooth, and more.

Drone for GoPro: Creating the Perfect Match

The small size and weight of GoPro cameras make them the perfect choice for drones. Depending on the model, the cameras are extremely durable. All the models are waterproof. Also, the durability of each camera is impressive. The GoPro is in housing so even if the drone crashes, your camera should remain safe. One thing to remember is that the added features of the GoPro HERO9 and the GoPro MAX make both cameras heavier than the two previous models which might be a factor depending on the drone that you’ll be using.

The Expense of the GoPro Camera

Luckily, GoPros are affordable. The GoPro HERO7 costs around $240, the HERO8 is around $300, and the HERO9 is in the range of $400. The GoPro Max has a price tag of about $450. You can find a nice GoPro for any budget.  In the last couple of years, the prices have gone down considerably.

GoPro and Drones

GoPro appeared to focus for a short period on their line of drones known as the Karma, but recently they have veered away from the line. The company appears to want to just focus on their action camera lines and avoid the actual drone business. However, luckily, there are a lot of drones for GoPro cameras.

Currently, the GoPro Max is the newest and most impressive GoPro camera on the market, However, the HERO7 remains a nice camera and affordable. The HERO8 Black and the HERO9 are also acceptable choices.

Picking the Best Drone and GoPro: Top Choices

 Below are a few of the best drones for GoPro use.

DJI Phantom 2 V2.0 (GoPro Model) Quadcopter

This drone is a leader. It features a Zenmuse H3-3D 3 Axix gimbal. The gimbal does require setup.  You’ll get about 20 to 25 minutes of flight time on a single charge. You can also use a 5,200mAh lithium-polymer battery. There is an included built-in control indicator with smart circuitry. It does have an onboard camera, but you can easily use a GoPro.

Pros include:

  • Rechargeable battery
  • Remote interface with controller lock
  • Gimbal control dial
  • Anti-static compass shell
  • Motors and props with increased thrust.
  • Able to carry 1.8 additional pounds.
  • Smooth and stable control to render lovely photos and videos.
  • Reacts well in windy conditions.
  • GoPro compatible
  • Return home.
  • Zenmuse H3-3D 3-axis gimbal for impressive stability
  • No-fly attribute.
  • 5,200mAh lithium-polymer batteries

Cons

  • Some have firmware issues.

Force1 F100GP

This is a sleek drone that is great for experienced hobbyists or novices. It can tip and do 360 flips which are sure to thrill. This exceptionally durable drone makes it a great first-drone choice for children who are just starting with drones. Also, it is GoPro compatible.

The drone’s silent flight is impressive. The brushless motor has wonderful stability, so you’ll be able to take nice photos and videos.

It has a 15-minute flight time, but the flight time might be shorter if it carrying heavy camera gear, so this should be taken into consideration when you pick a GoPro Model. You won’t want to use the GoPro Max because of the added weight. Instead, try to focus on a GoPro7 Black because of its lighter weight.

The Force1 F100GP is an economical drone choice that has a lot going for it.

Pros

  • 15-minute flight time
  • Performs tips and 360 flips.
  • Easy to fly.
  • Quiet brushless motor
  • GoPro compatible

Cons

  • Shorter flight time when carrying a heavy GoPro camera.
  • Does not always sync easily.

Holy Stone HS700

The Holy Stone HS700 is an affordable drone choice, especially if you are new to the hobby. It comes with a 5G 1080P FHD camera, but it is compatible with GoPro cameras. It has a GPS with a Return Home function. The GPS creates a stable hover which is great when you want to shoot photos.

The 20-minute flight time isn’t bad. A lower power alert also comes with the 2800mAH high-capacity smart battery.

The drone’s brushless motor is strong and quiet. It rarely suffers problems, so you don’t have to worry about an inconvenient breakdown. The drone starts with a single touch and it controls nicely.

Pros

  • 20-minute flight time
  • One-touch easy landing
  • Comes with a camera but is completely GoPro compatible.
  • 110-degree FOV
  • Rarely breaks down.
  • Quiet motor

Cons

  • You must initialize the drone to reinsert the battery.

DROCON Blue Bugs

The DROCON Blue Bugs is a budget-friendly drone that is GoPro compatible. Don’t let its low price tag fool you – it is a nice little drone. Its brushless motor does not overheat, and you can fly from 15 to 20 minutes.

A novice will appreciate how easy this drone is to fly. It is smooth and secure. However, it is still quick, so a seasoned drone enthusiast won’t be disappointed. You can fly the drone at 1,000 feet and still shoot impressive videos and take nice photos. It is easy to control and doesn’t disappoint.

It is made of nylon fiber and exceptionally durable. The drone can stand up to high winds. It’s also easy to perform trips like 3D rolls or flips.

Pros

  • GoPro camera compatible
  • Offers 15 to 20 minutes of flight time.
  • Durable – made from a nylon fiber
  • Performs 3D rolls and flips with ease.
  • Weak signal alert
  • Low electricity alert
  • Easy to fly

Cons

  • Often experiences problems with the included battery charger.
  • Does not always fully charge

Picking the best drone for GoPro cameras depends on your budget, your skill level, and your needs. Any of the above drones make a great choice to pair with a GoPro camera. If you are a novice, then you might want to go with one of the affordable and durable choices and then pair it with the GoPro of your choice. However, if flight time matters more to you, then you’ll want to pick the drone with the greatest flight time when carrying weight.

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Jeremiah Burnett

What started as a gift for my two sons turned into a major hobby for me! After playing with my sons' quadcopter one winter afternoon, I quickly became obsessed with all things drone. I enjoy precision flying, creating stunning and smooth aerial videos, and taking beautiful photos of my hometown.


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