The short version
- Under 250 g puts you in the lightest rule category in many countries — still check local law.
- GPS with return-to-home prevents most first-week losses.
- Budget for two spare batteries and a fast memory card.
Weight and the rules
Drone rules are written around weight, and 250 grams is the line that matters most. Lighter drones fall into the least restricted category in many countries, though registration and no-fly zones can still apply. Check your local aviation authority before the first flight.
Light does not mean toy. Sub-250 g drones now carry stabilised cameras that were flagship features a few years ago.
Features that save a beginner
GPS holds the drone in place when you let go of the sticks, and return-to-home brings it back when the signal drops or the battery runs low. Together they prevent the classic first-week crash.
Flight time per battery is usually 20 to 30 minutes, and less in wind or cold. It always feels shorter than it sounds.
The accessories nobody mentions
Neutral-density filters act as sunglasses for the camera. They let you keep a slower shutter in bright light, which is what gives video natural motion blur.
For 4K footage, use a memory card rated V30 or faster, and buy it from the brand's official listing — counterfeit cards are common and fail at the worst moment.
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