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Drones You Can Fly with Your Smartphone: Find Your Perfect Match

In today’s fast-paced world, drones have become more than just a hobbyist’s delight; they’re an extension of the tech-savvy individual’s lifestyle. With the advent of drones that can be controlled via smartphones, the sky is literally the limit.

Last Updated: 12:15, 9 April 2024
author icon Written By: Benjamin Wilson
  • Best Smartphone Controls

    QuadRanger Drone

    drone QuadRanger Drone list item image
    Up to 50% discount available
    10
    Price: $99 $149
    • Weight: 4.2 oz (with battery)
    • Dimensions (unfolded): 10.6 x 7.7 x 2 inches
    • Dimensions (folded): 4.92 x 2.95 x 1.97 inches
    • Controller: Yes
    • Camera: 720p HD video
    • Battery life: 12 minutes
    • Max range: 265 feet
    • Max speed: 13 mph
    12,487 visitors
    bought during sale
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  • Holy Stone HS100D

    drone Holy Stone HS100D list item image
    9.1
    • Weight: 26.5 oz
    • Dimensions: 487 x 487 x 164 mm
    • Controller: Yes
    • Camera: HD 2048 x 1152 P
    • Effective pixels: 12 MP
    • Battery life: 18 minutes
    • Max range: 1968 feet
    • Max speed: 36 mph
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  • Ruko F11PRO

    drone Ruko F11PRO list item image
    9.3
    Price: $379.99
    Shop Now
  • Ryse TECH TELLO

    drone Ryse TECH TELLO  list item image
    9.4
    • Weight: 2.8 oz
    • Dimensions: 3.9 × 3.6 × 1.6 inches
    • Controller: Yes
    • Camera: 720p
    • Battery life: 13 minutes
    • Max range: 330 feet
    • Max speed: 17 mph
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  • Skydio 2+

    drone Skydio 2+  list item image
    9.6
    • Weight: 28.2 oz
    • Dimensions (with battery): 9.02 x 10.79 x 2.99 inches
    • Controller: Yes
    • Camera: 4k 60 HDR
    • Effective pixels: 12 MP
    • Battery life: 27 minutes
    • Max range: 3.7 miles
    • Max speed: 36 mph
    Shop Now

In this article, we're diving into the world of these high-flying marvels, showcasing five exceptional drones that cater to a variety of needs and budgets.

Whether you're a professional photographer or a casual enthusiast, there's something here for everyone.

A drone being controlled by a smartphone

Why fly from with Phone?

Flying a drone with your smartphone instead of using a separate remote controller offers several distinct advantages, enhancing the overall experience for both novice and seasoned pilots.

Convenience and Portability:
Smartphones are a staple in our daily lives, meaning there's one less device to carry when you choose to fly your drone using your phone. This integration significantly reduces the bulk and weight in your gear, making it easier to take your drone on adventures.

Intuitive Interface:
Most people are familiar with smartphone navigation, which translates to a more intuitive control experience when flying a drone. The touch screen interface often feels more natural and can be easier to master, especially for beginners.

Enhanced Features through Apps:
Smartphone apps often provide additional functionalities for drone control. These can include automated flight paths, live streaming capabilities, and easy access to social media for sharing your aerial footage instantly.

Real-Time Feedback and Adjustments:
With a smartphone, you get real-time camera feedback, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments to camera settings. This immediate response can lead to better quality footage and a more responsive flying experience.

Cost-Effectiveness:
Using a smartphone can also be more cost-effective, as there's no need to invest in a separate controller, especially if you're a casual user or just starting out.

In summary, using a smartphone as a controller offers a blend of convenience, intuitive use, enhanced features, real-time control, and cost savings, making it an appealing option for a wide range of drone enthusiasts.


Here is our list of the best drones that you can fly with your smartphone:

QuadRanger Drone: A Class Above the Rest

QuadRanger drone with propeller guards positioned on a carpet.

Price: $99 (Up to 70% off!)
BUY NOW

One of the most user-friendly aspects of the QuadRanger is its easy-to-use smartphone app. The app, which can be swiftly downloaded by scanning a QR code found in the manual, is a gateway to numerous innovative features. All of which are designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring even first-time drone pilots can navigate its interface with ease.

The app introduces several flying modes that enhance the flying experience:

The headless mode
This is a fantastic feature for beginners. In this mode, the drone's orientation is relative to the controller, not its front, which means you don't have to adjust its position before flight.

Gravity sensor mode
By tilting your phone, you control the direction of the drone, adding an intuitive and interactive aspect to your flying sessions.

Additionally, the app includes buttons for automatic takeoff, landing, and even performing 3D flips, adding fun and versatility to your flights. These features make the QuadRanger not just a drone but an entertaining gadget that's accessible to everyone.

The drone itself is designed with practicality in mind. Its foldable structure makes it incredibly portable, perfect for those who are always on the move. The inclusion of propeller guards is a thoughtful addition, providing an extra layer of safety, especially for new pilots.

Pros ✅

  • Most bang for the buck
  • Great HD camera .
  • Durable and foldable Design
  • Agile flyer

Cons ❌

  • Sensitive to strong winds
  • Can't move the camera while flying


Buy it here

Holy Stone HS100D: Your Gateway to Aerial Photography

A Holy Stone HS100D drone with its package in the background

Price: $159.99
BUY NOW


The Holy Stone HS100D is a great drone that blends user-friendliness and advanced features.

One of the standout features of the HS100D is its GPS-assisted flight, which provides stable hovering and precise positioning.
Another bonus is the return-to-home function that automatically guides the drone back when the battery is low or the signal is lost.

The HS100D also boosts a follow-me mod where the drone becomes your personal photographer, automatically following and capturing your movements. This feature is especially great for adventurers who want to document their journeys hands-free.

Equipped with

Pros ✅

  • User-friendly interface, perfect for beginners.
  • Decent camera quality for its price range.
  • GPS-assisted flight for better stability.

Cons ❌

  • Battery life could be improved.
  • Limited advanced features for professional use.


Buy it here

Ruko F11PRO: The Adventurer's Dream

A Ruko F11 Pro in its case placed on a wooden floor

Price: $379.99
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This drone comes with a great remote controller but you can still fly it from you smartphone.
The app is easy to connect with the drone and comes with great features.

In addition to the powerful 4K UHD camera, which captures stunningly clear and detailed images and videos.

The drone aslo comes with GPS-assisted flight, offering stable flight and precise positioning.
This is complemented by a convenient return-to-home function.

Additionally, the Ruko F11 Pro boasts a long battery life, providing up to 30 minutes of flight time. This extended duration is ideal for those who wish to indulge in longer flying sessions or capture extensive footage without the interruption of frequent recharging.

Pros ✅

  • Sturdy build quality, suitable for outdoor use.
  • Impressive 4K camera resolution.
  • Long battery life for extended exploration.

Cons ❌

  • Size may be cumbersome for extremely compact travel.


Buy it here

Ryze Tello: Compact and Budget-Friendly

A Ryze Tech Tello with a led light glowing standing on a white table with a white wall in the background

Price: $99
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The Ryze Tello doesn't come with a separate controller as it's made to be flown with your smartphone.
It's made this way because it introduces users to the basics of programming through its integration with Scratch, a user-friendly, drag-and-drop coding platform.

So by downloading the app you get fun way to not only control your drone, but to prpgram it as well.
Great for young and tech-savvy enthusiasts.

The drone's ability to perform various flips and tricks with simple smartphone gestures adds a thrilling dimension to every flight.

Pros ✅

  • Propellerguard included
  • Compact and lightweight, easy to carry around.
  • Simple controls, ideal for beginners.

Cons ❌

  • Camera quality is basic compared to more expensive models.
  • Lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end drones.


Buy it here

Skydio 2+: The Autonomous Powerhouse

A blue Skydio 2+ flying over a green meadow in bright sunlight
Skydio 2+
Price: $1,099
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The Skydio 2+ is a marvel in autonomous drone technology, ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and advanced tracking capabilities.

Its standout feature is the sophisticated obstacle avoidance system, ensuring safe and stress-free flights. The drone excels in capturing dynamic, moving shots, perfect for sports enthusiasts and content creators.

With its high-quality camera and user-friendly interface, the Skydio 2+ makes complex aerial filming accessible to all, setting a new standard in the drone industry.

Pros ✅

  • Advanced obstacle avoidance system.
  • High-quality camera for professional-grade footage.
  • Excellent autonomous flying capabilities.

Cons ❌

  • Higher price point.
  • May require some time to get used to its advanced features.


Buy it here

Conclusion:

The world of drones is ever-evolving, and the ability to control these magnificent machines from our smartphones has opened up new horizons in photography, adventure, and entertainment.

Each of these drones offers a unique set of features to suit different needs and budgets.

Whether you're after the all-rounder excellence of the QuadRanger Drone or the budget-friendly charm of the Ryze Tello, there's a drone here to elevate your flying experience. Happy flying!

Frquently Asked Questiones

Q: What are the best drones for long battery life?
A: For drones with impressive battery life, check out our recommendations here.

Q: How can I learn to fly a drone?
A: Beginners can find helpful tips on flying drones here.

Q: Which drones come with cameras?
A: For a selection of drones with cameras, visit this page.

Q: How does flying from my smartphone affect battery life?
A: Flying your drone with your smartphone generally uses up the battery a little faster.

Q: What phone do I need to fly my drone?
A: Most apps are available on both Android and iOS. However, to be certain, check the drone's homepage.

Meet the tester

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Benjamin Wilson
Benjamin, with a background in naval architecture, is passionate about RC boats. From sailboats to speedboats, he's sailed them all. Based in Florida, he's our anchor when it comes to all things aquatic in the RC world.
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