- 246shares
- 189
- 0
- 3
- 3
- 51
Children of all ages are interested in flying toys just as much as us adults if not more, that’s why we’re reviewing the best drone for kids! Remember, we’re all children at heart! There are now plenty of drones for kids.
In the past, I’ve bought various flying toys for friends and family and they’ve always generated a smile, especially around Christmas time. Of course, drone child safety is extremely important and based on our reviews as well as other people’s, we’ve come up with a list of drones we feel will appeal to young Dronethusiasts. None of the drones listed will break the bank and all come highly recommended.
Children are never too young to start. I’m sure most parents will agree that children, whatever their age, often work an iPad or games console far better than most adults! So don’t be surprised if they learn to fly much faster than you! You may even spark an everlasting enthusiasm, without further ado here are the top 12 of what we consider the best drone for kids.
Table of Contents
FAQs on Drones for Kids
There are a lot of frequently asked questions when it comes to the topic of owning and flying a drone, so we figured it’d be a good idea to highlight some of them for you in case you personally had any.
Most drone users will already know these questions and the answers to them, but if you’re a parent who has little experience with drones and have questions, keep reading.
Can I fly a drone through my neighborhood?
This is a very common question that both drone users and neighbors of drone users ask, and for very good reason. There really is no straight answer for this question, unless you are flying over restricted airspace which is more than illegal to do, which is by the Federal Aviation Administration has crafted requirements that all recreational drone users register their aircraft.
Where private property is concerned, however, no one really knows. Landowners,which include homeowners, obviously, have a degree of say of the airspace over their homes. Shooting drones down has happened before once they go into someone’s airspace above their home, mostly for the fear of spying and taking pictures, but that is not technically legal either.
Therefore, we recommend that drone users fly in open fields, their own backyards, and never through their neighborhood as it can cause some serious disputes between homeowners and their private space.
Then where can I safely fly a drone?
As previously mentioned, flying in random fields or your own private space is your best bet when flying a drone. However, specific guidelines from the FAA must be followed, one of which being that a residential drone cannot exceed the height of 400 feet in the air. You will also be expected to be at least 5 miles away from any airport while flying your drone.
What if my drone gets away from me?
If your drone should randomly fly away from you, which happens quite a bit believe it or not, the range of the controller is what will kick it back. Depending on the drone you have, it will go into return to land mode and go back to the last location recorded as your location in the internal GPS.
Knowing Your Drones
Depending on the drone’s category there are multiple names and terms for each. Not all drones are called drones, but have different names and classifications, which are listed out for you below.
• Drone: Underwater or unmanned aerial vehicle and closely associated with the larger UAVs that are used by intelligence systems and the military for the purpose of conducting surveillance, launching missiles, or dropping bombs. However, residential drones are used for hobby and recreational purposes.
• UAV/UAS: Short for “unmanned aerial vehicle”, UAV, and “unmanned aircraft system” UAS, which are terms for aerial devices that do not have a pilot inside and are controlled internally through a battery and from the ground.
• Quadcopter: A common sUAS with four rotors that are horizontally oriented to appear as a helicopter, able to hover and remain stable in the air, and can go up to eight rotors total.
• sUAS: Short term for “unmanned aircraft system” that describes aircraft powered by batteries for the purpose of flying, and are usually large enough to be picked up by two people minimum.
There are many different types of drones out there, but the ones listed above are generally used for recreational and hobby purposes, so we will only list those for the time being. Whether it’s RC toys for younger kids, such as drones for 6-year- olds, we’ve got you covered.
The Range and Battery Life of Drones
Each drone has a different range and battery life, so not all will be the same. For example, the DJI Phantom 3 Advanced drone has a range of 3 miles, while the Quadcopter Condor has a battery life of up to 90 minutes long.
You can decide which drone is best for you based on the range, battery life, etc. Some shopping around will definitely be needed, which we can help you with!
Are There Drones for Kids?
Absolutely! There are tons of drones that are both safe and easy to control for kids, and if that’s why you’re here, then keep reading to see what the options are. We have found multiple options for each age range, such as RC helicopter drones for 7-year-olds and up, for example.
Drones for Small Children
As promised, we scoured online to find the best drones for small children, and based our reviews on the amount of stars on Amazon, which had to be at least 4 or higher, user reviews, safety ratings, features, our own experiences, you name it.
Cartoon R/C Race Car for Toddlers Ages 2+
Read Reviews About Cartoon R/C Race Car
This cartoon car comes with a little remote control and works on infrared technology. It’s lightning fast and easy to use with only forward, reverse left and right. The basic setup of the controller makes it simple to use for the youngest children. Also it’s as safe as they come for a remote controlled toy. No small parts for your toddler to eat and no sharp edges or electronics either.
This is a great choice if you’re looking for something extremely simple for your toddle to be able to push a button and see the car go!
The following is a list of the specifications:
• 3 AA’s in the car, 2 AA’s in the remote
• Changeable batteries
• Shipping weighs 500g
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Great for very young children, such as toddlers, to start learning basic drone controls
• Builds hand eye coordination
Cons:
• Does not fly, is not an actual drone aircraft
While this is not exactly a drone aircraft, it’s still made by a quality manufacturer,Holy Stone, and we do still highly recommend it.
Haktoys 2014 HAk377 Dragonfly Bee Mini RTF Helicopter – Age 7+
Read Reviews About HAk377 Dragonfly Bee Mini
Haktoys produce lots of different electronic flying toys. This is just one of their many popular offerings. Being a counter-rotating helicopter, stability is always excellent!
The following is a list of the specifications:
• 300mAh 3.7V for drone and 6 AA batteries for remote
• 30 to 45 minutes for charging
• Weighs 2.1 ounces
• Wingspan of 7.5”
• Built-in gyroscope
• 3 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Great for beginners to learn and master the skills needed for flying a drone
• Backup batteries are available
• Can be plugged in and charged basically anywhere
Cons:
• Cannot withstand multiple crashes like other more professional drones can
The Dragonfly Bee Mini is a great way to get kids under 10-years- old to get involved and learn to love drones. This one takes some effort to learn, but it’s great fun for kids of all ages.
Hot Wheels Street Hawk Remote Control Flying Car – Ages 7+
Read Reviews About Hot Wheels Street Hawk
Kids love Hot Wheels and this one gets great reviews, that’s why it’s made our list of the best drone for kids! What could be better than a car and plane in one! Outdoors only for this one. Award winner of the 2014 TimeTiPlayMag.com most wanted toy list! Durable, lightweight, making comes in a variety of colors. Apparently capable of flying up to 200 feet! Even shipped in frustration free packaging!
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V LiPo and 6 AA batteries
• 40 minutes for charging
• Weighs 9.4 ounces
• Wingspan of 4”
• 2 channels
• Foam
Pros:
• Great for beginners who are somewhat accident prone
• Completely foam, so you can change propellers and be able to afford a couple of crashes to learn what not to do without worrying
Cons:
• Pieces will come off during flight if they are not put in correctly
This is a great drone for kids 7-years- old and up. Hot Wheels is a brand that all kids know and love, so we had to check this one out and we definitely dig it.
Nerf Combat Creatures – Ages 7+
Read Reviews About Nerf Combat Creatures
While this isn’t necessarily an aerial drone, it’s still a drone and a pretty awesome one at that. Nerf is one of the best manufacturers when it comes to toys that shoot things, and this drone is no exception. It can shoot targets up to 45 feet away and walks on all different types of terrain. The head rotates 360-degrees and moves in all directions with an adjustable blast angle.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 6 AA batteries
• Interchangeable batteries
• Weighs 3.2 pounds
• 2 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• A great choice for kids who want something that is both a drone and a gun
• Has multiple angle and rotation options
• Able to walk and move around
• Can shoot up to 200 rounds before batteries need to be changed
Cons:
• Only comes with 12 darts
• Requires batteries to be changed instead of charged
This is a great drone for any age range, whether it be 8-years- old all the way up to 12-years-old, especially if your kid is a fan of combat toys.
Fast Lane Radio Control FLX Nano Drone – Age 7+
Read Reviews About FLX Nano Drone
Compact drones are always pretty interesting to see, and this one is definitely a cool one. It’s got features that any kid can take advantage of, especially ones that are as young as 7-years- old and up.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V and 2 AAA batteries
• 30 minute charge time
• Weighs 1 ounce
• Wingspan of 2”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Comes with 3 flight speed modes
• Has an LED light for low light flying
• Has a low voltage alarm
• Is a great compact drone for indoor and outdoor flight
Cons:
• Not very durable at all, so avoid crashes
• Can be difficult to control, you must read instructions very thoroughly
This is a fantastic choice for parents who want something that their kids can enjoy mainly inside, but be careful it doesn’t get too beat up.
Childrens Drones for Ages 8 and Up
Now onto the drones that are best for children aged 8-years- old and up. Following the guidelines for certain age groups is the best way to get the most out of a drone, so if your child is this age, or relatively around it, consider one of the drones here. In truth both of these drones are great for the age ranges of 8 to about 12 and 14. They’re great for beginners and intermediates skill experiences alike!
Top Race Dragon Drone – Ages 8+
Read Reviews About Top Race Dragon Drone
If you’re looking for a drone that has a protective ring for whatever reason, maybe because your child has never flown a professional drone before but wants one, this one is definitely one to consider. It’s got the ring, a cool design, and everything you’ll want in a drone for kids.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 2 AAA batteries
• 20 to 30 minute charge time
• Weighs 1.2 pounds
• Protective guard
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• One of the best starter RC helicopters for kids
• Comes with 3 speed modes, headless mode, and one-key return features
• Can perform stunts
• Added protection with the ring
Cons:
• Short battery life, only up to 6 minutes total
This is a great drone that teaches kids how they work, how to properly gain control over one, and lots more. Plus, you simply cannot go wrong with that protective ring.
Haktoys HAK907 RC Quadcopter – Ages 8+
Read Reviews About HAK907 RC Quadcopter
This is another example of superb RC helicopters for kids. The HAK907 has everything that a beginner or intermediate drone user would need, especially at a younger age.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 650mAh LiPo and 6 AA batteries
• 90 minute charge time
• Weighs 5 ounces
• Wingspan of 17”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Carbon fiber and foam
Pros:
• Great for indoor and outdoor use
• Has 3 speeds
• Does not require registration
• Decent battery life
Cons:
• Able to hold a camera, but the majority of cameras that can be equipped are way too heavy
• Very long charge time
A lot of RC helicopters can be difficult for kids to control, but this one knocks those drones completely out of the park. With a decent battery life and some interesting features paired with the look, it’s definitely one of our favorites.
Drones for Kids Ages 14 and Up
Now we move onto drones for kids of older ages, ranging from around 14-years- old and up. These drones are better suited for more advanced ages where kids can really grasp the concept of more thorough, complicated controls.
Hubsan X4 H107C Quadcopter – Ages 14+
Read Reviews About Hubsan X4 H107C
For kids who are breaking into the more serious world of advanced drones, Hubsan is a great place to start. This drone is a step up from beginner and sits between the level of intermediate and expert. It has great features and options to offer for all.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 500mAh LiPo battery
• Depends on the battery used
• Weighs 1.1 pounds
• Wingspan of 5.75”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Has a built-in camera with 0.3MP recording
• Includes a Micro SDHC card
• Can flip 4 different ways during flight, performs tricks
• Great to master controls for the more advanced drones
Cons:
• Camera isn’t the greatest quality wise and it does not move
• You will need to purchase your own Micro SD card for saving purposes
If your kid is more concerned with the drone aspects of one, and doesn’t really care about the camera part, then this is a great drone to get. It’s simple and easy to use.
Haktoys HAK907 RC Quadcopter – Ages 14+
Read Reviews About HAK907 RC Quadcopter
This is another example of superb RC helicopters for kids. The HAK907 has everything that a beginner or intermediate drone user would need, especially at a younger age.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 650mAh LiPo and 6 AA batteries
• 90 minute charge time
• Weighs 5 ounces
• Wingspan of 17”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Great for indoor and outdoor use
• Has 3 speeds
• Does not require registration
• Decent battery life
Cons:
• Able to hold a camera, but the majority of cameras that can be equipped are way too heavy
• Very long charge time
Yes, we previously mentioned this one, but we thought we’d mention it again. Overall it’s a great drone for any age between 8-years- old and up, even for older kids, especially if your kid is just starting out but does not want something too basic, if you know what we mean.
GooIRC Mini UFO RC Quadcopter – Ages 14+
Read Reviews About Mini UFO RC Quadcopter
This mini drone is super cool. It has all the gear and features that a future tech guru could ever want, and it’s very cheap for what you’re getting. Definitely a good choice for older kids looking to seriously get into the art of flying a drone.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 150mAh LiPo and 2 AA batteries
• 50 minute charge time
• Weighs 4.6 ounces
• Wingspan of 1200mm
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Built-in 0.3MP camera
• Can fly in multiple directions
• Records through an SD card
• Multiple modes and flight options to make it fun
• Protection on the propellers for crashes
Cons:
• SD card is not included
• Camera is not adjustable and cannot turn
This is another great drone that focuses more on the flying experience rather than the quality of the camera, but you can still get some decent shots with it.
TDR Spider Stunt Quadcopter – Ages 14+
Read Reviews About Spider Stunt Quadcopter
If you’re looking for a drone that can perform some pretty cool tricks in the air, this one is it. It can be used inside and outdoors and is more for kids that have more of an advanced grip to drone controls.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 380mAh LiPo and 4 AAA batteries
• 60 minute charge
• Weighs 14.1 ounces
• Wingspan of 5.75”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Performs 5 different stunts in the air
• Able to fly in windy conditions outside
• Has multiple modes to make flying and returning easier
Cons:
• Very long charge time compared to the 5 minutes of flight time you get
For a kid who just wants to mess around and do some tricks with a drone, this is the perfect one to get.
Blade Nano QX BNF Quadcopter – Age 14+
Read Reviews About Blade Nano QX BNF
This one comes with a FREE crash kit that will allow you to make any repairs needed.The drone itself is pretty great, too, of course. It’s packed with plenty of features, modes, and some great flying characteristics.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 150mAh LiPo and 4 AAA batteries
• 30 minute charge
• Weighs 0.58 ounces
• Wingspan of 2.25m
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Very durable
• Stable in windy conditions outside
• Great charge time
• Easily controlled and great for beginners
• Multiple modes and features to play around and have fun with
• Includes a crash repair kit
Cons:
• Short flight time and range/distance
For a simple yet surprisingly advanced drone for the older kids, we highly recommend this one.
Drones with Camera for Kids
Not all kids want to play with your run of the mill drone, some want one that has a camera that can deliver to mediocre or great shots. Whichever it may be, we have some seriously cool drones that have quality cameras on board available, so let’s get to it.
Syma X5C Quadcopter with HD Camera
Read Reviews About Syma X5C Quadcopter
As far as camera drones for kids go, this one is one of the best currently available. It has everything you’d want in a drone plus an HD camera to get some shots during flight.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 500mAh LiPo battery
• 100 minute charge
• Weighs 2.1 pounds
• Wingspan of 15”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• 2MP HD camera which takes some good quality shots
• 2.4GHz remote controller
• LED remote and lights for night flying
• Two different modes for added control and fun
Cons:
• If you are not an experienced pilot, the video may come out pretty shaky
• Battery only last for up to 7 minutes
As a starter camera drone, this one definitely takes the cake is a great choice for kids who are at an intermediate flying level.
Hubsan X4 FPV Quadcopter
Read Reviews About Hubsan X4 FPV
This drone is definitely for kids who have mastered controlling a drone, or those who are nearly there. This FPV camera drone is pretty advanced and has a much better camera, and a higher cost, than the drone previously mentioned.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 380mAh LiPo and 4 AAA batteries
• 30 minute charge
• Weighs 7 ounces
• Wingspan of 5.75”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• First person video capability
• 4.3” screen transmitter
• Quick charge time
• Can fly both indoors and out
• 480p camera
Cons:
• Camera is in fixed position, cannot move or tilt
• Record quality can come out spotty in certain conditions
For a more advanced camera drone we highly recommend this one!
Quadcopter Drones for Teenagers
Teenagers are using drones more often these days. Whether it’s for a hobby or for a serious future interest in the business, we have checked out some of the coolest drones that are great for teenagers ages 16-years- old and up.
UDI U818A WiFi FPV Drone – Ages 16+
Read Reviews About Airdog
We all know how much teenagers love WiFi, and this drone incorporates it into their design so you can view your flight feed straight to your mobile device, iPad, tablet, or whatever you’re using.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 500mAh LiPo battery
• 120 minute charge
• Weighs 2.4 pounds
• Wingspan of 18.7”
• 6-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic and metal
Pros:
• Very stable in wind
• Has multiple fun features and modes that can be used
• Good price for what you are getting, very reasonable
• Very durable and protected by the metal rotor guards
Cons:
• No GPS system
• No camera preview system in the controller, which is something that should be there
• Poor charge and flight time compared to others in its class
While the price may sway you a bit, don’t let it, this is definitely an incredible drone for the price you’re paying and it’s well worth it.
3DR Solo Drone Quadcopter – Ages 16+
Read Reviews About 3DR Solo Drone
Even though this one is on the very pricey side, 3DR is a superior company when it comes to nearly all categories of drones, and this one is no different. It’s a pretty basic, easy going drone, but you’ll see the value of it once it’s in the air.
The following is a list of specifications:
• Intelligent flight battery
• 1 hour and 30 minute charge
• Weighs 3.3 pounds
• Wingspan of 460mm
• Built-in gyro
• 8 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Able to integrate with GoPro for multiple extra features on top of the ones already present
• Great for aesthetic shots
• Very fast where controls and flight are concerned
• Easy to operate and learn the controls
Cons:
• Poor customer service, unfortunately
• Issues with the GPS satellite have been reported
Once again, don’t let the price tag sway you. This is one quality drone and a heck of a lot better than the majority of the more pricier options out there these days.
DJI Phantom 4 Quadcopter – Ages 16+
Read Reviews About DJI Phantom 4
DJI is another insanely popular drone company, and for a very good reason. They are constantly dishing out quality stuff, including what you are about to see. While it may be expensive, DJI produces nothing but the best, so it’s well worth the price.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 15.2V 5.350mAh LiPo batter
• 80 minute charge
• Weighs 8.8 pounds
• Wingspan of 559mm
• 2-axis gyro
• 8 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Has a control system that is incredibly user-friendly
• Very stable and flexible
• Easily controlled
• Over 20 minutes of flight time
• Comes with beneficial features and modes to take advantage of
• Has an obstacle avoidance system
Cons:
• As it moves away from the 5k range limit the image quality goes down
DJI makes fantastic drones for both beginner and expert drone users, and this one sits right in the middle. We highly recommend it!
Parrot BeBop 2 – Ages 16+
Read Reviews About Parrot BeBop 2
For a simple yet highly professional drone, the Parrot BeBop 2 is definitely where it’s at. It’s got everything you’d want out of a more professional level drone and is worth it for the money you’re paying, which is actually quite the steal.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 2700mAh LiPo and 4 AAA batteries
• 40 minute charge
• Weighs 1.1 pounds
• Wingspan of 328mm
• 3-axis gyro
• 6 channels
• Plastic and carbon fiber
Pros:
• Very good battery life
• Fast performance
• Lightweight design
• Great features and modes available
Cons:
• The camera has not improved since the first model, so video and image quality aren’t that great depending on the conditions
Parrot is always a company that we will recommend because of the high quality drones they produce, especially this one, which is perfect for teenagers looking for a drone.
Parrot AR 2.0 Elite Edition – Ages 16+
Read Reviews About Parrot AR 2.0 Elite Edition
For a drone such as this one, the price tag should be a misprint but thankfully it isn’t! Once again, we vouch for Parrot and recommend this drone for teenagers and pro drone users who are looking for a great piece of hardware.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 1,000mAh LiPo and 4 AAA batteries
• 30 minute charge
• Weighs 4.8 pounds
• Wingspan of 731mm
• 3-axis gyro
• 4 channels
• Plastic
Pros:
• Integrated HD camera
• Android and iOS compatible
• WiFi control can reach up to 165 feet in the air
• Can perform aerial tricks
• Decent flight time
Cons:
• The application can be glitchy, which interferes with how the flight performance pans out
We highly recommend this drone, and Parrot in general, for teenagers seeking out the perfect drone for them.
Best RC Helicopter for Kids and Teenagers
The next category highlights RC helicopters that are great for both kids and teenagers alike, so if you are a parent or relative looking for drones for a kid and a teen, we’ve definitely got you covered!
Blade Scout CX Heli Drone – 12-16+
Read Reviews About Blade Scout CX Heli Drone
For a more simpler take on a drone, we’ve got you covered. This RC helicopter has a decent design, is worth every penny, and has some great characteristics about it. It’s a drone that is great for beginners to start flying with, or for a pro who is looking for something to play around with.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 70mAh LiPo and 4 AAA batteries
• 20 minute charge
• Weighs 2 pounds
• Wingspan of 2.25m
• 6-axis gyro
• 3 channels
• Plastic
For an RC helicopter drone that is more on the simpler side, we highly recommend this. It’s a great drone for everyone to have, no matter what your skill level and experience may be!
Syma S107G RC Helicopter – Ages 12-16+
Read Reviews About Syma S107G
For a simple, plain, RC helicopter, this one is a definite great choice. It’s pretty basic, easy to use, and has a great price tag attached to it.
The following is a list of specifications:
• 3.7V 150mAh LiPo battery
• 40 minute charge
• Weighs 1 pound
• Wingspan of 3.9”
• Built-in gyro
• 3 channels
• Plastic and metal
Pros:
• Great for beginners
• Durable metal body to withstand crashes and collisions
• Great charge time
• Very precise flying
Cons:
• Only suitable for indoor use
• Needs IR signals which can be affected
For a plain, basic option that your kid won’t use too much, we highly recommend this one.
Drone Child Safety
Deciding which drone is the best drone for kids and which is the safest is extremely important for many reasons. Obviously there are fast moving parts that could hurt little fingers, eyes, etc. There can be sharp edges to consider and small parts that could be choking hazards.
It is your responsibility to make sure the drone is age and developmentally appropriate and to keep drones designed for older children out of reach of younger ones. It goes without saying that closely supervised children are safer children! As with all toys, only you the parent/caregiver will know what’s best for your child. Also, you are responsible for making sure drones are flown in appropriate places, so please be aware of current and new laws concerning the use of drones in your area. Whichever one you buy, make drone child safety and everyone else’s safety paramount.
All drones listed are to be used at your own discretion, obviously the best drone for kids list is to help you see what’s out there and provide you some safety guidance. It is your responsibility to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safe use of whichever drone you purchase. The ages we have suggested for each of the drones are a guide only. These are just some of many drone toys available today. I’m sure we have missed some other great options, so if you have good experiences with other products, that you can recommend to others, please feel free to leave a comment below about our best drone for kids article! There are just too many to list!
Remember if you get your kids interested in drones young, someday maybe they’ll end up starting a drone business with one of the Phantom drones from DJI and you’ll get to fly it too!
style=”display: block; visibility: hidden; border: 1px solid transparent;”>
