Looking for a budget-friendly drone under $300 that doesn’t skimp on quality? The DJI Mini 4K and Holy Stone HS720G are two top contenders in this price range. While DJI dominates the premium market, Holy Stone offers feature-packed alternatives for casual flyers. Let’s compare camera quality, flight performance, and usability to see which drone delivers the best bang for your buck.
Design and Portability
DJI Mini 4K:
The Mini 4K is built for portability and high performance. Weighing in at approximately 249 grams, it is ultra-light and foldable, making it an ideal choice for travelers or users who need a compact solution. Its robust design and premium materials ensure durability while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Holy Stone HS720G:
The HS720G weighs 377 grams. Although slightly heavier than the Mini 4K, its compact, foldable design makes it highly portable. Holy Stone emphasizes that its weight is comparable to everyday items (like a can of coke) while providing a solid build quality aimed at beginners and hobbyists.
Camera and Gimbal Stabilization
DJI Mini 4K:
The Mini 4K’s standout feature, as detailed on DJI’s website, is its high-quality 4K UHD camera. Coupled with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal, the drone delivers smooth and stable footage even in challenging conditions. The advanced sensor and color accuracy ensure that every shot captures vibrant detail, making it a favorite among content creators.
Holy Stone HS720G:
The drone features a 4K UHD camera paired with a 2-axis gimbal and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS). While it does not offer the full 3-axis stabilization found on the Mini 4K, the HS720G still delivers clear video and photos suitable for beginners who are learning aerial photography and videography.
Flight Performance and Intelligent Features
DJI Mini 4K:
DJI highlights on their website that the Mini 4K offers a maximum flight time of up to 30 minutes under optimal conditions. Its advanced flight algorithms, combined with features like QuickShots (including Dronie, Rocket, and Circle modes), ensure that even novice pilots can create cinematic footage with minimal effort. Additionally, the drone benefits from basic obstacle detection through downward sensors, providing an extra layer of safety during flight.
Holy Stone HS720G:
HS720G provides a flight time of approximately 26 minutes per battery. The drone incorporates intelligent flight modes such as Follow Me, Orbit, and Return-to-home. Although its obstacle avoidance is not as advanced—there are no dedicated sensors for collision detection—the built-in GPS system and optical flow positioning assist with maintaining stable flight in open areas.
Range and Connectivity
DJI Mini 4K:
Impressive maximum control range of up to 4 km under optimal conditions. This extended range, supported by advanced GPS connectivity and signal strength, makes the Mini 4K suitable for exploring wide open spaces and capturing expansive aerial shots.
Holy Stone HS720G:
The Holy Stone HS720G offers a maximum flight distance of up to 999 meters. While this range is lower than that of the DJI Mini 4K, it is generally sufficient for beginners and recreational users who primarily fly in confined or semi-open areas.
Spec Comparison Table
Below is a quick reference table summarizing the key specifications of both drones, based solely on official data.
| Specification | DJI Mini 4K | Holy Stone HS720G |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 249 grams | 377 grams |
| Flight Time | Up to 30 minutes | Approximately 26 minutes |
| Camera | 4K UHD with advanced sensor | 4K UHD with 2-axis gimbal + Electronic Image Stabilization |
| Gimbal Stabilization | 3-axis mechanical stabilization | 2-axis stabilization with EIS |
| Intelligent Flight Modes | QuickShots (Dronie, Rocket, Circle, etc.) (DJI) | Follow Me, Orbit, Return-to-home (Holy Stone) |
| Range | Up to 4 km | Up to 999 meters |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Downward sensors | None |
Value for Money
Both drones are priced similarly, around the $300 mark, but they cater to different segments. The DJI Mini 4K is geared toward prosumers and content creators who prioritize camera quality, extended flight time, and advanced stabilization. Its compact weight and sophisticated intelligent flight modes justify its premium design.
In contrast, the Holy Stone HS720G is designed for beginners who are looking to enter the world of drones without a huge initial investment. Although it lacks some advanced features like a full 3-axis gimbal and extended range, it provides an accessible and reliable flying experience for those just starting out. The inclusion of intelligent flight modes and a sturdy design make it an attractive option for casual use and learning.
Final Thoughts
We can conclude that both drones offer compelling features at a similar price point. If your primary focus is on achieving the highest quality aerial footage with advanced stabilization and extended range, the DJI Mini 4K is the better option. However, if you’re new to the drone hobby and want a budget-friendly model that still offers 4K video and a range of intelligent flight modes, the Holy Stone HS720G is a solid choice.
Ultimately, your decision should depend on your intended use. Whether you need a professional tool for content creation or a user-friendly drone to build your flying skills. Both models have their merits, and the best choice will align with your specific needs and expectations.