The 15 Best Drones for Professional and Commercial Drone Pilots (2024)

Updated With New Drone Models for 2024

01

DJI Mavic 3 CINE (Premium Combo)

The Mavic 3 CINE is DJI’s latest creation that pushes the boundaries of what a foldable drone can achieve. It builds on everything that made the Mavic 2 Pro successful, but the CINE version is unlike any Mavic drone before it. The dual-camera system features a Hasselblad 4/3” sensor and a ½” Tele camera sensor that has 28x hybrid zoom.

With up to 46 minutes of flight time, you will not have to worry about having enough battery life to get that picture-perfect shot. Speaking of its imagery capabilities, The Hasselblad sensor provides a 12.8-stop dynamic range that retains more details in highlights and shadows, upgrading your work to a professional level. Drone pilots will also enjoy the built-in Apple ProRes 422 HQ encoding and 1 TB SSD for a super smooth professional workflow.

The Mavic 3 CINE premium combo includes:

• DJI RC Pro Controller
• DJI RC Pro Control Sticks (pair) ×1
• 3 DJI Mavic 3 Intelligent Flight Battery
• DJI Mavic 3 Low-Noise Propellers (pair)
• DJI Mavic 3 Battery Charging Hub DJI 65W Portable Charger
• DJI Mavic 3 Storage Cover
• DJI Mavic 3 ND Filters Set (ND4/8/16/32)
• DJI Mavic 3 ND Filters Set (ND64/128/256/512)
• DJI Convertible Carrying Bag
• DJI 10Gbps Lightspeed Data Cable
• Type-C Cable

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 4/3 CMOS, 20 MP, JPEG/DNG
• Video Resolution: 5.1K/50fps, 4K/120fps
• Max Flight Time: 46-minutes
• Max Speed: 42 mph (67 kph) in S-mode
• Notable Attributes: O3+ allows for a 9.3-mile transmission range, an Advanced RTH system, 84° FOV, auxiliary bottom light, omnidirectional binocular vision system, DJI AirSense.

See our review of the Mavic 3 CINE here.

02

DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise

The DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Series redefines industry standards for small commercial drones. With a mechanical shutter, a 56× zoom camera, and an RTK module for centimeter-level precision, the Mavic 3E brings mapping and mission efficiency to new heights. A thermal version is available for firefighting, search and rescue, inspection, and night operations.

The Mavic 3 Enterprise can be carried in one hand and deployed at a moment’s notice. There are two different models in this series: Enterprise and Thermal. The thermal camera has 640 x 512 resolution and supports point and area temperature measurement, high temperature alerts, color palettes and isotherms to help you find your targets and make quick decisions.

The DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise and the DJI Mavic 3T (Thermal) are both Standard Remote ID Compliant.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: Enterprise – 20MP & Thermal – 12MP/48MP
• Video Resolution: H.264, 4K at 3840×2160 at 30fps, & FHD at 1920×1080 at 30fps
• Max Flight Time: 45-minutes
• Max Speed: 6 m/s (normal mode) & 8 m/s (sport mode)
• Notable Attributes: Compact & portable, 56x hybrid zoom, DJI O3 Enterprise Transmission, thermal camera, high-volume loudspeaker

03

Sony Airpeak S1

The Airpeak S1 is the world’s smallest drone that can carry a full frame Alpha series mirrorless camera. It’s equipped with flexible flight modes to make flying and creating even easier. Use it with “Airpeak Flight” mobile app to control, monitor and manage the aircraft, remote controller, camera, and gimbal in-flight.

The Airpeak system enhances creativity for a seamless drone experience, Airpeak S1 is supported by a remote controller, an app and cloud service which work together to create a high-performance aircraft system. From piloting and camera work to flight programming and data management, the Airpeak system is comprehensive and easy to use.

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• Max Flight Time: 12-24 minutes*
• Max Speed: 55.9 mph without payload
• Notable Attributes: Versatile camera and lens compatibility, intuitive control, automated flight for workflow efficiency, sensing technology for flight stability

* Max flight time varies based on what camera gimbal is equipped.

04

Freefly Alta X

The FreeFly Alta X drone is a quad-rotor configuration designed for professional and industrial partners. It is truly an engineering marvel with the ability to carry up to a 35-pound payload. Foldable carbon fiber propeller arms, propellers, and Freefly’s quick-release gimbal system ensure simple set-up and increased portability.

Flying a large drone does not need to be complicated, fly with ease with Freefly’s PX4 flight controller. No matter how you use the Alta X, the drone is engineered for easy transport and quick deployment. The propellers and arms fold to cut its physical size by half, and with just a push of your finger, you can expand the drone to full size. When expanded, the linkages stiffen the booms to help ensure accurate, low-vibration flight.

Key Specs/Features

• Quick release mounting system on top or bottom of aircraft.
• Adjustable Vibration Isolation included.
• Long Range Data link.
• Extensive accessory ecosystem
• 33 Inch blades with ActiveBlade technology
• Flies on just 2 batteries.
• 50 Minute flight time with no payload, 22 minute flight with 20lb payload.
• Folds to half its size with one finger folding.

05

Flyabilty Elios 3

Flyability pioneered confined space inspection drones with its first product in 2016. With the launch of the Elios 3, it continues its pledge to create cutting edge technology designed to keep humans out of dangerous places to perform the most demanding inspection tasks.

The Elios 3 was made to address the need companies have for reliable inspection tools. As industries around the world scale up their use of drones, they need technology that is easy to use, performs the same way every time, and remains stable when working inside highly sensitive assets.

The Elios 3 comes with an Ouster OS0-32 LiDAR sensor, allowing inspectors to collect data for the creation of survey-grade 3D models using software from Flyability’s new partner, GeoSLAM. Mapping areas that are out of reach or too dangerous for humans is very difficult, yet critical to support operational decisions in many industries.

By combining the best of confined space drone data capture and 3D geospatial software technology, Flyability’s partnership with GeoSLAM enables professionals to produce survey-grade point clouds of the most inaccessible places in their workplace, completely removing the strain of approximations and guesswork from their operations. In addition to carrying a LiDAR sensor, the Elios 3 can accommodate a second payload that allows it to be customized for each individual user’s needs.

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• Camera Resolution: 12 megapixels
• Dual thermal and 4K camera system
• Collision tolerant—the Elios can withstand collisions and continue flying (this is what it’s known for!)
• Cutting edge wireless communication with live video feedback
• 10k Lumen dustproof lighting system with oblique lighting
• GPS-Free stabilization with Distance-Lock for precision inspection
• Full HD live streaming
• Max Flight Time: Up to 12 minutes
• Max speed: Up to 6.5 m/s (14.5 mph)
• Notable Attributes: FlyAware SLAM Engine, SLAM-Based Stabilization, 3D Live Map, 3D Reporting, 3D Surveying, Modular Payload Bay, Collision-Resilient Design, Extended Air-Time, Close-Up Inspection Payload

Accessories

• Flyability Inspector
• Range Extender

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=

06

DJI Agras T40

The DJI Agras T40 is equipped with the revolutionary Coaxial Twin Rotor design, enabling it to carry a spray load of 40 kg and a spread load of 50 kg (70 L). The aircraft is built in with a Dual Atomized Spraying System, DJI Terra, Active Phased array Radar and Binocular Vision. It supports multiple missions from surveying, mapping, to spraying and spreading, helping you achieve ultimate precision in your agricultural operations.

The Agras T40 features a coaxial twin rotor design that increases the payload capacity by 30% with a maximum payload of 50 kg. Its foldable design reduces the aircraft size by 70% for greater portability.

By pairing AGRAS T40 with the Phantom 4 Multispectral, the platform allows you to perform variable spraying/spreading operations with precision based on the farmland’s prescription map. The feature is useful for the spraying of fertilizers on rice, fertilizers and defoliants on cotton crops, and nutrient solutions on soybeans and corn.

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• 40 kg (10 gallons) payload
• Sprays 15 acres per hour
• Integrated centrifugal cooling system increase reliability and longevity
• Interchangeable spray nozzles
• Terrain Follow: Microwave radar scans the terrain below to maintain stable height above plants regardless of elevation changes
• Max Flight Time: 2 hours
• Max Speed: 10 m/s
• Notable Attributes:Interchangeable spray nozzles; Terrain Follow: Microwave radar scans the terrain below to maintain stable height above plants regardless of elevation changes

*Flight times vary on the payload weight.

07

senseFly eBeeX

The senseFly eBeeXis a fixed-wing drone that is fully autonomous and is designed to capture high-resolution aerial images for mapping and 3D modeling. No piloting skills are needed for this drone, simply throw the drone and it will follow a pre-planned flight plan. Fixed-wing aircraft are ideal for large mapping jobs due to the efficient aerodynamic properties of this configuration. The eBee can cover 1200 acres within one planned flight, making it a very efficient option for aerial mapping.

It only weighs 1.7 lbs and can be equipped with seven interchangeable cameras and includes the senseFly eMotion software. Various optional accessories make the drone configurable for just about any mapping mission. The eMotion software is loaded with advanced flight control features and mapping parameters but is designed with a user-friendly interface that is great for beginners.

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• Interchangeable camera sensors
• Also works with Pix4Dmapper and Pix4Dbim
• Multiple file outputs
• Max Flight Speed: 68 mph (109 kph)
• Max Flight Time: 90-minutes
• Includes everything needed to start mapping today
• Notable Attributes: Transform aerial photos into accurate orthom*osaics (maps) and 3D models

See a comparison of other senseFlyeBee drones here.

08

DJI Matrice 350 RTK

The DJI Matrice 350 RTK is DJI’s upgraded flagship enterprise drone that can be configured for a multitude of applications. This next-generation drone platform features an all-new video transmission system and control experience, a more efficient battery system, and more comprehensive safety features, as well as robust payload and expansion capabilities. It is fully powered to inject innovative strength into anyaerial operation.

The M350 RTK can carry up to six pounds and up to three different payloads at the same time. Need to change a payload or battery? Not a problem, with Hot-Swappable Batteries, the battery can be changed while still providing power without shutting down the drone. Automate routine inspections and capture consistent results every time. There are two many advanced features to list, but here are a few: AI Spot Check, Live Mission Recording, Pinpoint, and Dual Control.

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• Compatible with various Zenmuse sensors and third-party sensors
• Max Flight Speed: 51 mph (82 kph)
• Max Flight Time: Up to 55-minutes
• IP55 weather rating
• Anti-Collision Beacon
• Hot-Swappable Battery
• 6 Directional Sensing & Positioning
• Notable Features: AirSense ADS-B Receiver, self-heating battery, UAV health management system, primary flight display.

09

DJI Inspire 3

The DJI Inspire 3 offers unprecedented workflow efficiency, camera language, and creative freedom. This all-in-one 8K camera drone empowers professional-level filmmakers to fully maximize the potential of any shot and master the unseen. Inspire 3 is a professional camera drone that adopts a fluid new design that takes aerodynamics fully into consideration to reduce air resistance.

The FPV camera,visual sensors,positioning antennas,and storage cardslot all adopt designs that are seamlessly integrated into the airframe for a minimalist look and modern industrial aesthetics.

Both the front and the rear of Inspire 3 have a built-in stacked ceramic antenna, providing powerful anti-magnetic-interference capability to further improve flight accuracy and safety. Specially designed for aerial cinematography, Waypoint Pro enables flight-route and shot planning with a wide range of customized settings. With the new Repeatable Routes and 3D Dolly modes, aninnovative automated shooting experiencecan be easily achieved. In addition, RTK centimeter-level positioning ensures more accurate flight-route planning and execution. Whether solo shooting or in a professional crew, use Waypoint Pro to master even highly-complex scenes.

Key Specs/Features

• Sensor Size: 1/1.8″
• DFOV: 161°
• Live Feed Quality: 1080p/60fps
• Battery life: 28 minutes
• RTK antennas to enable three types of GNSS (GPS, BeiDou, and Galileo)
• Waypoint Pro to enable flight-route and shot planning

10

Teledyne FLIR SIRAS

SIRAS is an affordable, easy-to-fly, IP54-rated professional drone with an interchangeable payload system for industrial and utilities inspection, firefighting, law enforcement, and search and rescue missions. With front collision avoidance, hot swappable batteries, a 31-minute flight time, and no restrictive geofencing, professional UAV pilots can fly safely when and where the mission demands.

The quick-connect Vue® TV128 payload features patented MSX® technology, adding visible-light outlines to thermal imagery to provide critical information in real time. The 16MP visible camera delivers clear, pinpoint details with a 128x zoom. A 640×512-pixel, radiometric FLIR Boson® provides sharp thermal imagery, 5x digital zoom, accurate temperature-measurement, and compatibility with FLIR Thermal Studio™ analysis software.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 16MP with a 128x zoom
• Max Flight Time: 30-minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 40mph
• Collision Avoidance: Front Facing Radar – Up to 30m when flying <5 m/sec speed & ground detection via underside sensors
• Notable Attributes: Clear thermal and visible imagery, no geofencing, data security, photogrammetry software

11

Autel Evo Max 4T

The EVO Max 4T brings powerful technologies and advanced autonomy to users. EVO Max 4T assesses complex environments to create real-time 3D flight paths for unparalleled obstacle avoidance. Advance sensors make flight in GPS unavailable areas possible and the incredible new thermal payload unlocks new object identification and tracking scenarios. With a foldable, weather-resistant design, the EVO Max 4T is as portable as it is capable.

This drone is Standard Remote ID Compliant.Review Declaration of Compliance here.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 48MP
• Video Resolution: 4000×3000 (Telephoto)
• Max Flight Time: 42 minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 23m/s
• Notable Attributes:
  • 1/1.28″ CMOS camera
  • 3-axis gimbal for stabilized footage
  • Obstacle avoidance sensors
  • 9 km HD video transmission range
  • Intelligent flight modes
  • IP43 weather sealing
  • Foldable, portable design

12

Skydio X2

Skydio changed how a drone could be flown when they released their advanced autonomous drone, the Skydio 2+. Now the company is breaking into the commercial market with the new Skydio X2. The industrial design of the X2 makes this professional drone an excellent choice for government agencies, the military, and a host of other applications. Its foldable design is a first for the company, which allows this drone to be packed up and taken anywhere you desire.

The Skydio X2 can turn anyone into a seasoned drone pilot with the use of Skydio artificial intelligence. Equipped with the advanced FLIR Boson sensor and 360 Superzoom allows you to get closer, fly further, and see even during the darkest nights. In addition to the sensors, the X2 also features visible/infrared illuminators, precision GPS, and inertial navigation for night operations. 6-miles of range and 35 minutes of flight time ensures that the Skydio X2 will always deliver.

TheSkydio X2 V1&Skydio X2 V2are both Remote ID Compliant.

Key Specs/Features

• Color Camera: 4K 60 fps with 16x optical zoom
• Thermal Camera: Flir Boson 320×256
• 360 Superzoom with 100x optical zoom
• Max Flight Speed: Unknown
• Max Flight Time: 35-minutes
• Notable Features: Enterprise controller, foldable design, 6-mile range, visible/IR illuminators.

13

DJI Matrice 30T

The DJI Matrice 30 Series is a safe and reliable drone for commercial drone pilots. The Matrice 30 has a powerful flight performance and can easily handle adverse weather and temperatures ranging from -20° C～50° C. With sual-vision and ToF sensors on all six sides of the aircraft, it will keep your mission safe. The built-in ADS-B receiver provides timely warnings of any incoming crewed aircraft nearby.

The M30 Series integrates wide, zoom, and thermal cameras (M30T only) with a laser rangefinder, which together can capture the aerial data you need, when you need it. It also has superior image quality including; night flight, smart low-light photo, RGB, infrared, and laser rangefinder.

The M30 Series also offers a DJI Dock option. DJI Docks are rugged, reliable, and are built to operate 24/7,
day or night, rain or shine. Each DJI Dock houses a Matrice 30 where it lands, recharges, takes off, and executes missions programmed in DJI FlightHub 2.

The DJI Matrice 30 and Dock Version are both Standard Remote ID Compliant.

Key Specs/Features

• Color Camera:1/2″ CMOS, Effective pixels: 12M
• Thermal Camera:Uncooled VOx Microbolometer
• Max Flight Speed: 23 m/s
• Max Flight Time: 41-minutes
• Notable Features: High-end visual and thermal camera payloads, rugged weather resistance, collision avoidance and redundancy system, and compatibility with DJI Dock and FlightHub fleet management software

14

DJI Mavic 3M

Effective aerial surveying needs to see the invisible. That’s why Mavic 3 Multispectral has two forms of sight. It combines an RGB camera with a multispectral camera to scan and analyze crop growth with total clarity. Agricultural production management requires precision and data, and Mavic 3M delivers both.

Mavic 3M with RTK module for centimeter-level positioning. Flight control, the camera, and the RTK module sync in microseconds to accurately capture the location of each camera’s imaging center. This enables Mavic 3M to do high-precision aerial surveying without using ground control points.

Key Specs/Features

• RGB and multispectral camera
• Compact and portable
• Max Flight Speed: 33 mph (normal mode)
• Max Flight Time: 43-minutes
• 100W battery charging hub making for fast charging

15

Skydio X10

Packing more megapixels and better optics than any drone its size, Skydio X10 boasts high resolution visual and radiometric cameras in modular sensor packages. So you can capture the right details for your job. With the powerful sensors, you can see impressive details that are unlike any other. For example, you can detect a .1 mm crack in concrete under a bridge in low light. You can also read a license plate from 800 feet.

Skydio X10 is the first drone ever to integrate aFLIR Boson+ sensor, delivering the highest quality thermal imaging. Capable of resolutions of 640 x 512 px and offering increased sensitivity down to <=30 mK, the X10 delivers more accurate radiometric readings, anytime, any place.

Navigate the most complex missions confidently, even in GPS-denied or high EMI environments. With superior AI flight assistance and obstacle avoidance, you no longer need to hire a specialist to get the job done, whether you’re in the field with your drone, or piloting from a hundred miles away.

Complete targeted inspections automatically, with a new Spatial AI Engine that senses and understands what you’re scanning. Efficiently build 2D maps and 3D models onboard, in real time. Or export data to Pix4D, Bentley iTwin Capture, DroneDeploy, or ESRI SiteScan.

Key Specs/Features

• <40 Second Deployment Time
• Max Flight Speed: 45mph
• Max Flight Time: 40-minutes
• IP55: Certified against dust and water