If you ask a group of professional drone users who makes the best drones, DJI would be the choice of the overwhelming majority of those people. And for good reasons too, DJI is objectively the only brand that makes both some of the best indoor drones and some of the best selfie drones available out there. And the DJI Spark Remote Controlled Drone is no different. It’s jam-packed with various features, and more importantly, is a strong contender for the best professional drone throne below 500 bucks.
Which is great, but does DJI permit you to program one of their drones? Moreover, do they detail how their drones transmit data? These are also great questions to ask, especially if you’re new to drones. Nevertheless, DJI drones are certainly a contender for top-rated drones.
Why We Like It – DJI Spark Remote Controlled Drone
The best thing about the DJI Spark Remote Controlled Drone, just like other DJI drones including the DJI Phantom 4 Pro, this one can also be controlled from a mobile device. But that doesn’t mean that the actual included Spark remote controller is missing features, not at all. The 2-axis mechanical gimbal built-in also helps to provide a smooth 720p HD video feed over long distances.
- Spark remote controller included
- Controllable from a mobile device through Wi-Fi
- 16 minutes of flight time
- The DJI Go 4 app is pretty buggy
Speed & Power
Even though it’s not a racing drone, it can actually reach speeds of up to 31 miles per hour (almost 50 KMPH). That is incredibly close to the UVify OOri racing drone. Just make sure to use the toggle beside the power button to put it in high-speed mode. And even at those kinds of speeds, the ActiveTrack system does a fantastic job of keeping the subject in focus or following it. That is why DJI touts it as their best follow-me drone, and as their best VR drone. And to be very honest, it is not far off. Check out our DJI Spark Fly More Combo review for a drone that can be controlled with gestures.
Range
You get up to 1.2 miles (2 KM) of range on this thing, which is insane for an indoor drone. The Spark remote controller allows for HD video transmission without any lag over that kind of distance, even in the Sport Mode (VR, DJI Goggles required). Just make sure to clip your mobile device onto the Spark remote controller. It’s way better than something like the Tello Quadcopter Drone. Also, take a look at our Drocon Bugs 3 review for a drone with a range of up to 500 meters.
Durability
Just like the DJI Mavic Air quadcopter with remote, this quadcopter is exceptionally well made. It is built like a tank from the propellers to the body. And you get a standard Spark accessory kit right out of the box. Everything you need is included in the retail package. And pretty much everything is very sturdy overall.
Camera Features
It’s one of the older models from DJI’s lineup; that’s why it only has a 12 MP camera built-in. But it’s not bad at all. Over short distances, you’ll be able to get a 1080p 30FPS video feed out of this camera. However, over long distances, it only supports 720p, which isn’t too different from the EACHINE E61.
Value
At just $400, you get a camera drone that is almost as fast as a racing drone, if you buy this quadcopter. At this price point, this kind of feature set is pretty much unheard of. So yes, the DJI Spark RC Drone definitely is a value-for-money quadcopter.
DJI Spark Remote Controlled Drone Wrap Up
DJI Spark Remote Controlled Drone is a quadcopter that can be controlled from a remote controller or a mobile device. If you’ve only got $400 to spend on a good camera drone, this drone is certainly something worth taking a look at.
