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Wow — the DJI Mini 3 drone has never been this cheap

It’s no secret that I am in love with the DJI Mini 3 drone. It’s one of the best quality drones give the low price tag. And right now, that low price tag is lower than ever.

Sharp eyes from Drone Girl readers have spotted the DJI Mini 3 drone with RC-N1 Remote going for just $419. That’s a $50 discount from the latest low price we’ve seen of $469.

And that’s massively lower than the $559 price that the same RC-N1 configuration of the DJI Mini 3 was set at when it launched at the end of 2022. What was a 16% (or $90) discount is now an even more impressive 25% ($140) discount. All that at a time when the general rate of inflation over the same perio (from December 2022 to now) is 8%.

Imagine practically everything else being 8% more expensive, while one of DJI’s best drones on the market is actually 25% cheaper.

The DJI Mini 3 drone deal seems to be available on most major retailers. That includes Amazon, B&H Photo, Drone Nerds and Adorama.

I’ve also spotting some other configurations that offer potentially an even-better deal. For example, for just $20 more, Adorama is selling a $439, upgraded DJI Mini 3 drone with basic accessories kit that also throws in a SanDisk Extreme microSD card, Slinger shoulder bag and a Corel software kit. The software kit alone is considered a $200 value.

Related read: DJI Mini 3 Pro vs Mavic Air 2 and Air 2S: which is better?

Why I love the DJI Mini 3 drone

Now that this drone is under $500, the price tag alone is relatively easy to grapple with. But here are other reasons why the DJI Mini 3 drone is great:

  • Excellent image quality: The DJI Mini 3 packs a punch with a 1/1.3-inch sensor and dual native ISO. That enables true-to-life colors in both bright and low-light conditions.
  • Easy to fly: With an extended battery life of up to 51 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus (or 38 minutes with the standard batter), you’ll have ample time to fly. The intuitive and user-friendly controls also make it easy to fly, even for beginners.
  • Ultra-lightweight: The sub-250 gram weight of this drone has all sorts of practical reasons beyond just portability. Weighing in at under 250 grams, the DJI Mini 3 falls into a weight class that exempts it from certain drone regulations in many countries, including the United States. You don’t even have to register this drone in the U.S.
  • Made for social media: TikTokers and Instagram Reels makers, rejoice! The DJI Mini 3 features a unique tilt mechanism that allows for true vertical shooting. That’s ideal for capturing vertical photos and videos specifically formatted for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

While the latest version in the Mini lineup, the DJI Mini 4 Pro, is overall a far better drone than the DJI Mini 3. That’s given improved features like a more powerful transmission system and obstacle avoidance. Still, it’s tough to justify the Mini 4 Pro’s $759 price tag now that the Mini 3 is just $419.

Related read: DJI Mini 3 vs. Mini 4 Pro: is it worth the upgrade?

Is buying the DJI Mini 3 now a smart move?

I wish I could say I had a crystal ball. And if I did, I’d use it to see how prices will change. With Amazon Prime Day coming on July 16 and 17, we tend to see prices on tech products fall further on all sites, not just Amazon.

But it’s impossible to say if the DJI Mini 3 will end up on a Prime Day deals list. It’s also impossible to predict if it’ll go lower than this $419 price tag if it does.

Then there’s another factor to consider: the potential that the U.S. bans future DJI drones. Yes, a proposed ban on DJI drones that has already passed in the U.S. House of Representatives has sent shockwaves through the drone industry. It’s not entirely clear whether the ban would apply only to new drones, or if existing drones would be grounded too.

For what it’s worth, it’s unlikely the ban would apply to already-purchased drones. Plus, that assumes it even passes in the Senate and that the president signs it into law, which is perhaps even more unlikely. But, it has left some drone pilots wondering if now is a good or bad time to buy DJI drones. Assuming the ban only applies to new drones, though, it could be a golden opportunity to scoop up a cheap drone that you resell on eBay

That said, what if you’ve been eyeing the DJI Mini 3 but the price tag was a bit too high? This sale is the perfect time to take the plunge. With its excellent image quality, long flight time, portability, and user-friendly features, the DJI Mini 3 is a great value at its regular price. At this record low price, it’s an absolute steal.

And hey, if future drones do get banned, then you could always sell this one. On the bright side, you might potentially even turn a profit.

Looking for even more deals? And yes, that means deals on more drone stuff beyond just the DJI Mini 3! Check out my guide to the best drone deals of summer 2024.

The post Wow — the DJI Mini 3 drone has never been this cheap appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Summer 2024 drone sales: your ultimate guide to deals on DJI, Autel, Part 107 courses and more

Summer 2024 is here, and The Drone Girl has compiled the best deals you’ll find on drones — and drone adjacent products. Whether you’re a seasoned drone enthusiast or a beginner looking to explore the world from above, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to the best summer 2024 drone sales.

Among the standouts? A rarely-seen 40% discount on Autel — which offers up a compelling option for people seeking a drone alternative to DJI. Of course, DJI is trying to seduce pilots with incredible deals of its own — particularly notable given concerns that some members of Congress want to ban future sales of DJI drones.

So with that, here is The Drone Girl’s ultimate guide to the best summer 2024 drone sales:

Save up to 40% off of Autel drones and products

Sally French, The Drone Girl, reviews the Autel Evo Lite+ in May 2022.
Sally French, The Drone Girl, reviews the Autel Evo Lite+.

Though Father’s Day 2024 already passed, the Autel Summer Father’s Day is still going on. But act fast! Sale prices are valid for purchases made either through the Autel Robotics Amazon store or via the Autel Robotics official online store.

The stand-out drone of the sale is the Autel Evo Lite+. This drone usually retails for $1,249, but with this sale, it starts at just $689. The Autel Evo Lite+ was named the best non-DJI camera drone on the market, according to Drone Girl. Its standout features include:

  • 1-inch CMOS sensor
  • 6K/30fps video
  • 40 minutes of flight time on a single charge
  • Adjustable aperture from f/2.8 to f/11
  • Defog mode
  • Transmission range of 7.4 miles
  • Ultra wide-angle obstacle avoidance cameras with a front field of view of 150 degrees

So, take advantage of the Autel Evo Lite+ sale now on Amazon or purchase directly from Autel’s website.

$100 off Drone Pilot Ground School

Kick off your summer by getting certified as a drone pilot with Drone Pilot Ground School. All courses are now $100 off as part of their summer Sale—save up to 33%, depending on the package you choose.

Enrolling in Drone Pilot Ground School is your first step towards earning your Drone Pilot’s License and legally earning money flying drones in the U.S. It’s one of the top Part 107 test prep courses and comes highly recommended by Sally French, aka Drone Girl, who used it to ace the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test.

Save up to 20% off with DJI Mid-Year Sale

The DJI Mid-Year Sale 2024 offers discounts on popular drones and gimbals at the official DJI Store, with savings of up to 20%, free gifts, and additional promo codes.

Don’t need another free water bottle? You might be better off shopping for DJI products through Amazon. There, you can really maximize your savings and earn 5% back with the Amazon Visa card. Prices are the same as what you’ll get on DJI’s store, aside from the lack of free gifts — but 5% back might turn out more valuable anyway. After all, 5% back on a $1,500 drone is $75.

The best deal of DJI’s Mid-Year sale is 20% off the DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo. The DJI Air 3, features dual 48MP cameras for wide-angle and 3x medium telephoto shots and 4K/60fps HDR video, professional-grade capabilities like a 46-minute flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing. Also, it’s a lightweight drone at 720g making it an ideal choice for serious photographers looking for a powerful yet more affordable alternative to high-end models like the DJI Mavic 3 Pro.

And now during the sale, you can purchase the DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo for $1,239 (usually $1,549).

Other great deals for the DJI Mid-Year Sale 2024 include: 

Have you seen any other great 2024 summer drone sales? Help other Drone Girl readers save and share your finds in the comments!

The post Summer 2024 drone sales: your ultimate guide to deals on DJI, Autel, Part 107 courses and more appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Memorial Day 2024 is this weekend: gear up for these mega drone sales

Memorial Day 2024 brings fantastic deals on drones and drone accessories. This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 27. While many of the deals won’t be live (or even announced) until this weekend, there are already plenty of deals available now to kickstart your Memorial Day 2024 shopping.

Among the top Memorial Day 2024 drone sales include discounts of up to 28% off on Autel Robotics drones and $150 off certain online drone courses. And yes, there are even discounts on DJI drones, too.

Bookmark this page, as we will be updating it with more deals as they come in throughout the weekend and into Monday. Here are the top Memorial Day 2024 drone sales:

Deals on drones for Memorial Day 2024

Perhaps the most exciting purchase you can make? The drone itself. That’s why we’re kicking off this Memorial Day 2024 deals guide with a section on drones:

28% off of EVO Nano+ for Autel Robotics

  • Original price: $943
  • Discounted price: $679
  • Savings: 28% off

The Autel EVO Nano series is an entry-level aerial camera designed for absolute beginners. It’s rare to find drones discounted and rarely more than a 10% discount.

The EVO Nano+ drone weighs only 249 grams, which is significant due to regulatory benefits. It features a 1/1.28″ sensor capable of capturing 50 MP photos.

The drone is equipped with a three-way binocular vision sensor, allowing it to detect obstacles in front, behind, and below. It can fly for up to 28 minutes, withstand level 5 wind conditions, and transmit video from up to 10 km away.

Many pilots choose this drone specifically as an alternative to DJI. (Though note, this drone is also made in China.)

Purchase the EVO Nano+ for $679.

7% off the DJI Mini 2 SE

  • Original price: $299
  • Discounted price: $279
  • Savings: 7% off

Sure, a 7% discount isn’t huge. But it’s a big deal because finding any drone under $300 is tough to find, let alone a DJI drone. And you can now get the DJI Mini 2 SE from Amazon for $279.

The discount probably also has something to do with the launch of the DJI Mini 4K (which has significant upgrades when compared to the Mini 2 SE).

The DJI Mini 2 SE takes many of the features that were revolutionary when the DJI Mini 2 launched in November 2021. That includes a 1/2.3” CMOS and 12 MP photos. It’s also far cheaper. While the Mini 4K is $299, the DJI Mini 2 SE costs just $279.

Up to 40% off Exo Drones

Although we don’t usually rave about their products, the current EXO drone sale is worth sharing. Running through May 23, 2024, this sale is perfect for those looking for an affordable, non-DJI, and (kind of!) American-made consumer drone.

  • EXO X7 Ranger PLUS (40% off)
    • Usual price: $549
    • Discounted price: $329
    • An entry-level drone with a 25-minute flight time and a 4K camera for photos (2K for videos)
  • EXO Cinemaster 2 (35% off)
    • Usual price: $610
    • Discounted price: $399
    • Features true 4K recording at 50mbps and a 1/2.3in CMOS sensor for higher-quality images.
  • EXO Blackhawk 3 Pro (24% off)
    • Usual price: $1,249
    • Discounted price: $949
    • Offers a 53-minute flight time and a 1/1.3in CMOS 48 MP camera with smart features like obstacle avoidance. Check out our full review of the Blackhawk 3 Pro.
  • EXO Mini Pro (18% off)
    • Usual price: $799
    • Discounted price: $649
    • Lightweight at under 250 grams, with a 40-minute flight time, 4K UHD video, and 3-way obstacle avoidance.
  • EXO Blackhawk 2 Pro (17% off)
    • Usual price: $899
    • Discounted price: $749
    • An older model with fewer features than the Blackhawk 3 Pro, but still a solid option.

These deals are available on Amazon and the EXO drones store, with free shipping to the contiguous U.S. states. Don’t miss out—this sale ends on May 23, 2024.

EXO may be considered an American drone company, depending on your definition. The products are engineered in the U.S., and the company is owned by Miami-based OpenStore. However, the drones are built outside the U.S. and are affiliated with Chinese drone company Hubsan. While they don’t fully meet the Buy American Act requirements, they still represent a solid non-DJI option in the consumer drone market.

This sale is a great opportunity if you’re looking for alternatives to DJI drones. Take advantage of these deals before they end tomorrow!

Deals on drone classes for Memorial Day 2024

Whether you’re looking to learn how to turn your passion into your business, or you want to get your drone license, consider enrolling in a class to learn something new and up-level your skills.

This Memorial Day, take advantage of these deals on online courses:

$120 off Drone Pilot Ground School (AND proceeds are donated to K9s for Warriors)

Memorial Day 2024 Drone Pilot Grond School Part 107 test prep

Drone Pilot Ground School is the most reputable provider of training for the Part 107 test and general drone flight training. The Drone Girl, Sally, personally used their course to take and pass the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test on her first try, so it’s easy to understand why it’s her favorite Part 107 drone test prep course.

This Memorial Day 2024, save $120 on any of the three packages offered:

  1. Self-Study (normally $297, now $197)
  2. Guided Study (normally $327, now $227)
  3. Guided Study plus Flight Training (normally $525, now $425)

Drone Pilot Ground School typically does not discount the Guided Study + Flight Training package since it’s already discounted, so this is a huge deal. What’s even better about this sale is that the proceeds will be donated to a great cause: K9s for Warriors. K9s for Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or military sexual trauma.

The Drone Pilot Ground School Memorial Day 2024 sale runs until Tuesday, May 28, at 11:59 p.m. CT.

$150 off Drone Mapping Course from UAV Coach

The Drone Mapping Essentials online course by UAV Coach is now $150 off—just $349 through Thursday, May 28th. Also, Drone Girl listed UAV’s Drone Mapping Essentials course as one of the best drone mapping courses of 2024.

Created by industry expert Dylan Gorman, the founder of PilotByte, the course features over 10 hours of learning modules and more than 100 instructional videos. It includes quizzes and downloadable resources like checklists to simplify real-world flights.

You’ll also get real-world data sets to practice on. The course ends with a final exam, and passing earns you a certificate of completion to impress clients. Plus, it teaches using free mapping and data processing software, so no extra costs.

Register for the UAV Coach mapping course for $349 (usually $499) here.

Deals on other drone gear and accessories

If you already have a drone, well, you might not be in the market for another. But you MIGHT be in the market for some sweet (or practical) accessories. Check these deals out:

Up to 46% off of GetFPV products

Here are some of the best deals currently available from GetFPV, a leading independent online retailer of FPV products:

  1. Lumenier CYBERMECH LED Visor: Originally $129.99, now $69.99. This visor is a full-color customizable LED display for the DJI FPV Goggles. It allows you to display color animations, images, custom text, and more on the front of your FPV Goggles.
  2. Lumenier Power Bank Pro 225: Originally $169.99, now $99.99. This power bank is a portable fast-charging solution for all your FPV charging needs. You can wirelessly charge your phone, fast charge your laptop, and power your drone battery charger with this battery bank.
  3. Lumenier 1300mAh 3S 60C LiPo Battery: Originally $19.99, now $17.99. This LiPo battery is designed for multi-rotor or plane applications where extreme power is needed. LiPo batteries are generally safer and more environmentally friendly than other R/C batteries, but be sure to follow necessary safety precautions when handling them.

GetFPV also offers discounts for military personnel, first responders, students, and teachers throughout the year. All military members receive an additional 6% discount on every order after verifying their identity.

How to save an extra 5% on Memorial 2024 sales (and more deals)

To save an extra 5% on Memorial Day 2023 sales, consider shopping on Amazon, even if you love the customer service at B&H Photo. Here’s why Amazon might be a better choice for maximizing your savings:

If you have the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, widely regarded as Amazon’s best credit card, you’ll get an automatic 5% back on purchases at both Amazon and Whole Foods. This cash back is combinable with the Memorial Day 2024 discounts mentioned earlier.

Related read: This Amazon credit card tip can get you 10% back on popular DJI drones

Plus, Amazon will have Memorial Day sales of up to 40% now through the weekend, including 20% off of the Apple iPad Air and 67% off of portable Bluetooth speakers. 

The post Memorial Day 2024 is this weekend: gear up for these mega drone sales appeared first on The Drone Girl.

EXO drone sale offers big discounts for pilots seeking DJI alternative

Though we’re not really crazy about their products — and would only recommend them in a few cases — here’s a major drone deal we figured was at least sharing. The EXO drone sale is on now through May 23, 2024. And for pilots who want an affordable camera drone that’s not made by DJI (and especially who want an American-made consumer drone), this might be your best bet.

DJI alternatives have been a super hot topic lately. Especially as certain lawmakers in Congress push the Countering CCP Drones Act, discussion has increased around what drones pilots could even use. The Countering CCP Drones Act would place DJI on a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) blacklist, effectively blocking new DJI drones from being able to fly in the US. (though existing DJI drones would still be okay). Though I don’t actually expect the law to pass (it’s only in the introduction stage), I’ve been wrong before. If it does pass, EXO drones might be the new hot consumer aircraft in the sky — as there are few non-DJI camera drones out there on the market.

Others might want a non-DJI drone for plenty of other reasons. The specs might just not measure up. And for what it’s worth, some of EXO’s products actually do have really good specs. For example, its current flagship drone, the Blackhawk 3 Pro, has unbelievably good battery life, for what it’s worth. Iconoclasts might just seek something different. And some patriotic pilots might just want a camera drone made in America. This one is kind of considered American-made…emphasis on the word kind-of.

Here’s everything you need to know about the EXO drone sale for May 2024, how you can get in on it, and our honest take on EXO drone products:

Inside the EXO drone sale for May 2024

To kick off summer, the EXO drone sale runs now through May 23, 2024. The deals are available on both Amazon and the EXO drones store. Since both sites ship EXO drones to any of the 48 contiguous U.S. states for free, then your cost is the same.

Sometimes shopping directly through the manufacturer can make sense to give them a little extra support (that way they don’t have to pay a cut to Amazon). Though, shopping through Amazon has its own benefits, including faster shipping (it takes up to two days for EXO to simply fulfill your order, and that’s before shipping time is factored in). With the Amazon Prime Visa credit card, you’ll also save 5% on Amazon purchases. No matter where you buy them, here’s what’s on offer, sorted by size of discount:

EXO X7 Ranger PLUS (40% off)

  • Usual price: $549
  • Discounted price: $329

The EXO X7 Ranger PLUS is a rather unremarkable drone, but it’s at least quite affordable. Its specs are pretty meh, like a 25-minute flight time and a 4K camera, but only for photos. Videos are shot at 2K. This would be a good, entry-level drone for someone not seeking amazing image quality, but rather prioritizing something affordable.

Perhaps that’s why it’s being offered at such a steep discount. Even still, I’d considered most other drones in this list above the EXO X7 Ranger PLUS.

EXO Cinemaster 2 (35% off)

  • Usual price: $610
  • Discounted price: $399

The Cinemaster 2 has a lot in common with the EXO X7 Ranger PLUS save for one big upgrade: a better camera. It records true 4K at a 50mbps bitrate & f/2.5 aperture, all the way offering deeper colors and more balanced light to generate higher-quality images. The sensor is a 1/2.3in CMOS sensor.

EXO Blackhawk 3 Pro (24% off)

  • Usual price: $1,249
  • Discounted price: $949

The EXO Blackhawk 3 Pro is the most expensive drone in the EXO drone family, and unsurprisingly it’s the most advanced. It’s standout quality? Massively long flight times, at 53 minutes. The camera on the EXO Blackhawk 3 Pro is also quite good, offering a 1/1.3in CMOS at 48 MP. It also has smart features including obstacle avoidance.

Yet we have some qualms with it. We reviewed the EXO Blackhawk 3 Pro and were met with challenges largely in terms of setup and operation. The general user flow from ground to air was cumbersome, and sometimes smart features like “follow-me” didn’t work accurately.

EXO Mini Pro (18% off)

  • Usual price: $799
  • Discounted price: $649

EXO Mini Pro is perhaps the most compelling of all of EXO’s drone offerings. It’s addressed many of the concerns people have with consumer drones. For example, on the data security front, all drone and app data is encrypted and stored by EXO’s headquarters in Utah.

It weighs less than 250 grams, which is a critical milestone in that it doesn’t have to be Remote ID compliant.

Flight time is impressive at 40 minutes (and it takes just 90 minutes to charge). It also packs in some super solid nice-to-haves, like internal storage (you can choose the default 64 GB, or pay extra for 128 GB). It’s also considered semi-crash proof with 3-way (Front, rear and below) obstacle avoidance.

And yes, the camera is pretty solid too, offering 4K UHD 30fps / 2.7K 60fps video. There’s also a 48 megapixels camera with 1/1.3in CMOS sensor.

Sure, the discount on this is among the smallest of any in the May EXO drones sale, but I’d go with this drone if I could only have one.

EXO Blackhawk 2 Pro (17% off)

  • Usual price: $899
  • Discounted price: $749

The Blackhawk 2 Pro is basically the older model of the EXO Blackhawk 3 Pro. Sure, it’s $200 cheaper, but it’s almost always better to spring for the newer model (that’s the third generation). Most people are best off skipping this drone, given how many improvements were made in the upgrade to the third generation (including better battery life).

Is EXO an American drone company?

It depends on your definition. The products are engineered in the U.S. And since EXO was acquired by Miami-based OpenStore in August 2022, the company’s ownership is American, too.

But products are actually built outside the U.S. In fact, EXO is affiliated with another Chinese drone company that’s not DJI. Instead, it’s closely tied to Hubsan.

Alas, it doesn’t meet Buy American Act requirements. Those requirements apply to very few buying use cases (such as drones purchased with federal funding). But it does indicate that this drone certainly isn’t as fully “American-made” as much as other drones are.

Should we add EXO to the list of best camera drones made in the USA? For now, we’re not willing to go that far for two reasons: the drones aren’t as amazing as its competition (albeit, Chinese-made competition). But it also might be a stretch to call them American made.

That said, this EXO drone sale is certainly something to at least consider if you’re looking at what else besides DJI is in the consumer drone market.

Looking for more drone deals beyond this EXO drone sale? Check out my ultimate 2024 drone deals guide, including some Drone Girl-exclusive reader discounts.

The post EXO drone sale offers big discounts for pilots seeking DJI alternative appeared first on The Drone Girl.

A chance to win a $200 online test prep course – just for Drone Girl readers

The team at DARTdrones is hosting a raffle for their online Part 107 test prep course (a $200 value!), exclusively for Drone Girl readers.

The contest is underway, and readers must enter by May 14, 2024, for a chance to win. Use this link to enter and win a free online Part 107 test prep course.

For anyone preparing to take the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test, this raffle offers a chance to prepare for free with a respected program. After all, the DARTdrones course is included in Drone Girl’s list of the best online Part 107 test prep courses.

On May 15, 2024, DARTdrones will announce a winner. And here’s the best part: One of Drone Girl’s readers is guaranteed to win if you use this link to enter.

A closer look at DARTdrones courses

The DARTdrones Part 107 course is a self-paced online class with 8 interactive hours of class material, unlimited practice tests, and a monthly review webinar. There’s a 99% pass rate for those who use the DARTdrones course, along with a money-back guarantee.

Additionally, DARTdrones offers live virtual courses starting at $375. These courses occur on select days (typically weekends) and span about four hours each day.

Also, you may recognize the name DARTdrones from the company’s CEO, Abby Speicher, appearing on Shark Tank. There, Mark Cuban invested $300,000 in exchange for 10% of her company.

DARTdrones offers a range of other courses besides its photo course, some of which are in-person or held live online. It also provides workshops tailored to specific industries such as mapping and modeling, disaster response, and inspections. Moreover, its Aerial Photography and Videography Online Course is currently rated as the top overall online drone photo course.

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2024 President’s Day drone sales: the best deals on camera drones, Part 107 courses and more

Happy 2024 President’s Day! Not only do we get a long weekend but we get another delight — some awesome deals on drones! There are tons of sales happening on major retailers like Amazon and B&H Photo, as well as smaller drone-specific companies, throughout the weekend.

So don’t stereotype President’s Day to just mattress sales. And don’t sleep on these sales, either. Here are the best drone deals (and deals on related drone gear) that you’ll find this 2024 President’s Day:

$120 off Drone Pilot Ground School Part 107 online training

2024 President’s Day Part 107 course sale

This President’s Day, you’ll save $120 off any (well, or all three) of the packages sold on Drone Pilot Ground School. The online school offers test prep courses to help people pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test, which is required for people flying drones commercially to get a license under the FAA’s Part 107.

This is a killer deal. Last President’s Day, they were offering only $75 off, so $120 is definitely unbeatable. Even better? Drone Pilot Ground School happens to be my favorite Part 107 drone test prep course

Click this link and the $75 discount will automatically apply. (Try entering PRESIDENTSDAY24 if that doesn’t work).

The deal is available now, and you have all weekend to mull it over as it’s good through Tuesday, February 20 at 11:59 p.m. CT.

One bummer, you can’t combine the PRESIDENTSDAY24 with my DRONEGIRL50 promo code. It’s one or the other. But you’re better off with the former coupon code, if i’m being honest. I’d rather save $120 than $50!

2024 President’s Day DJI drone deals: discounts AND bonus freebies

There are a bunch of DJI drones on sale for 2024 President’s Day. Here are some of the top deals.

DJI Mini 2 SE sale brings beloved DJI drone under $300 (12% off)

A drone under $300? Yes, that’s the DJI Mini 2 SE, which is now $40 off (that’s a 12% discount). That brings the usual $339 price down to $299. That’s pretty unbelievable to get such a high-quality, safe yet beginner friendly drone for that low of a price.

PLUS, some retailers are offering a freebie gift with purchase. When you shop through DJI between now and Feb. 26, you’ll get a free aircraft sleeve, too ($9 value).

The deal is even better over at B&H Photo. There, you’ll get a propeller holder, which is a $14.95 value.

Of course, you might also buy it from Amazon. There’s no freebie gift over there, but you might prefer shopping there to take advantage of all the other Amazon benefits like free one-day shipping in most cities, fast and easy returns, and the ability to save an additional 5% by paying with the Amazon Prime Visa Credit Card.

Read my full review of the DJI Mini 2 SE here.

Amazon’s DJI Air 3 Kit is the priciest, but it also comes with the most bonus goodies.

DJI Air 3 Kit with freebies

The DJI Air 3 stands out for its dual-camera system. That means one drone has both a wide-angle lens and 3x medium telephoto lenses. Between now and February 26, the major retailers are offering some solid freebies when you by the Fly More Combo (DJI RC 2).

DJI itself is selling it for $1,549 PLUS a free DJI Sport Water Bottle, which it claims has a $25 value. B&H Photo is selling it at the same price, and you also get a water bottle. Their’s is a B&H-branded Klean Kanteen insulated bottle, which it claims has a $30 value.

Prices get a little more interesting 128 GB Micro SD Card, 3.0 USB Card Reader, Landing Pad, Waterproof Backpack . They’re selling a configuration that’s $150 more, but it might be arguably better given how many freebies you get with it. For the $150 extra you won’t get a water bottle, but you DO get a massive bonus bundle that includes all sorts of goodies including a 128 GB Micro SD Card, 3.0 USB Card Reader, Landing Pad and Waterproof Backpack.

DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC — and another freebies

The DJI Mavic 3 Pro is arguably DJI’s best overall drone for businesses. It’s ultra-powerful and a step up from the DJI Air 3. That’s because it adds a third lens to the system, with a 70mm f/2.8 medium telephoto. That’s on top of the 166mm 12MP 7x Zoom Telephoto and 20MP 5.1K Wide-Angle 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad.

This drone rarely goes on sale (we’ve seen some iterations of sales, but not with the DJI RC). And alas, it’s not really on sale, but maybe this might make your purchase a little more delightful. Both DJI and B&H Photo will give you a free water bottle with your purchase.

Just like the deal offered via the DJI Air 3 drone, purchases through DJI get a free DJI Sport Water Bottle ($25 value). Shop through B&H Photo, which is selling it at the same $2,999 price, and you also get a water bottle. This time, it’s that B&H-branded Klean Kanteen insulated bottle ($30 value).

By the way, find out more about why we love the DJI RC.

30% off DJI Avata sale matches Cyber Monday sale

To fly Avata, you’ll need a controller, goggles and the drone itself. Pictured here are the DJI Goggles 2, DJI Motion Controller and Avata drone.

If you missed out on the 2023 Cyber Monday sale, here’s good news. That incredible 30% off the DJI Avata is back. It’s rare to see a deal this good outside of Cyber Monday, but here we are, with the usual DJI Avata Explorer Combo at just $889 (down from the usual $1,278 list price).

Though this drone is great for flying indoors, it’s legal to fly outdoors, too. That’s because it is also FAA Remote ID compliant with a built-in Remote ID module. The 30% off deal is available on both Amazon and B&H Photo.

Other great 2024 President’s Day deals that drone pilots will love

Those are some of the big, drone-specific sale, but I can’t help but share these other incredible deals.

30% off certain Samsung microSD cards

There are a few deals happening over in Samsung lad for their microSD cards. The Samsung microSD Pro Ultimate, which is my upgrade pick for best microSD cards for drone pilots, is 20% off. That takes the $35 price down to just $28, which is even cheaper than my usual top pick, the Samsung microSD Pro Plus. So yes! Why not upgrade?!

And though I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this for drones since it’s a bit slower of a memory card, don’t overlook the 30% discount on the Samsung EVO Select. It’s more of an endurance card, great for gaming and smartphones.

50% off Roomba J7

Wow! 50% off the Roomba j7 is an incredible deal, bringing the $600 smart vacuum down below $300. If you’ve wanted to get your hands on a smart vacuum, this is the time.

I have to share this because it’s basically a drone in vacuum form. And did you know that former CyPhy Works CEO Helen Greiner is also the cofounder of iRobot (the company that makes Roomba)? CyPhy Works has since shut down (its assets were sold to FLIR), but the company was famous for making tethered drones.

20% off Apple AirTags

Here’s another incredible deal that you don’t see often. The normally $100 pack of 4 Apple AirTags is down to $79, for a 20% discount.

For drone pilots constantly on the go, the AirTag is a potential hero for your drone bag. Especially if you have to check your luggage or are otherwise worried about losing your drone, the AirTag silently pings its location through the vast “Find My” network. An AirTag in your drone bag might just be the peace-of-mind upgrade you never knew you needed.

75% off Tripp Lite TLP1008TEL 10-Outlet Surge Protector

Now this is a mind-blowing deal, as the Tripp Lite TLP1008TEL 10-Outlet Surge Protector has never been this cheap. Normally $65.34, it’s a steal now at just $16.38. Definitely don’t sleep on this deal.

Surge protectors are critical for tech people who are charging drones while also working on a computer with multiple monitors, stereos and other extras, and who might also be charging cameras or phones in the meantime. All that tech demands surge, spike and line noise protection.

Plus, this upgraded version has a diagnostic LED that clearly indicates power problems before equipment is at risk.

What other great 2024 President’s Day drone sales have you spotted? We’ll keep updating this post as we see more (and I anticipate more to come on Monday). But if you’ve got other deals we should know about now, please leave them in the comments!

The post 2024 President’s Day drone sales: the best deals on camera drones, Part 107 courses and more appeared first on The Drone Girl.

New Year Sale offers $100 off Drone Pilot Ground School Part 107 test prep

If you’re considering getting your Drone Pilot’s License as a 2024 New Year’s resolution, then Drone Pilot Ground School has you covered.

As of yesterday, Drone Pilot Ground School is offering $100 off all their packages for their New Year Sale. That’s up to 33% off, depending on what package you pick, from now until Thursday, Jan. 11th.

Purchasing one of Drone Pilot Ground School’s packages is the first step in turning your resolutions into actions. After all, passing the Part 107 test and becoming certified is the only way to legally make money as a drone pilot in the U.S.

And why not go with Drone Pilot Ground School? It is one of the best Part 107 drone test prep courses. And of course, it has Drone Girl herself, Sally French, stamp of approval. (It’s what she used to prepare for the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test.)

Use this link and the Drone Pilot Ground School sale price will automatically apply (for purchases made before the close of the sale on Jan. 11th). 

Drone Pilot Ground School’s programs 

Drone Pilot Ground School’s sale entails a $100 discount on each of their three comprehensive test-prep packages. 

The Self Study package, typically priced at $299, is now available for $199. The course encompasses video lectures, quizzes feature around 300 practice questions including FAA questions. The Self Study package also includes a concise 12-page cram sheet, and dedicated 1:1 customer support. 

The Guided Study package includes everything from the Self Study package, plus additional benefits. Those enhancements comprise unlimited practice exams, weekly live Zoom webinars tailored to ace the FAA Part 107 exam, and the top 15 drone training exercises, among others. Its usual price of $339 is now reduced to $239. 

For a more immersive experience, the Guided Study + Flight Training package is offered at $425, down from its regular $525. This premium option builds on the Guided Study package by adding 1:1 hands-on training with an expert drone instructor. Before you purchase this package, make sure you check the location of the drone instructor to ensure one is in your area. 

All three options come with a ‘pass or don’t pay’ 30-day money-back guarantee.

Drone Pilot Ground School and the Part 107 test

Drone Pilot Ground School has an impressive roster of industry-leading clients, including NYPD, and John Deere, as well as journalists from major news outlets like USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.

Under the FAA’s Part 107 regulations, operating a drone for business purposes requires a drone pilot license, previously known as a “remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating.” To obtain this license, candidates must successfully pass an in-person written exam, commonly known as the Part 107 test.

This test comprises 60 multiple-choice questions, covering a range of topics far beyond basic common sense. For example, you’ll need to be familiar with interpreting sectional charts and understanding meteorological concepts like stratiform clouds. The test can be taken at any of the 700 testing centers nationwide. Upon passing, you’ll receive a physical license that must be carried during drone operations. 

Given the complexity of the test, enrolling in a test-prep course is a smart move. And with the New Year’s sale ongoing, now is the perfect time. It might also mark a thoughtful gift for friends or family members who are venturing into the world of drones. 

To get the sale price from Drone Pilot Ground School, simply use this link. Please note, that Drone Girl’s usual discount code that offers $50 off with the code DRONEGIRL50, will not work with this sale code. But don’t worry, the current $100 discount is a much more advantageous deal anyway.

The post New Year Sale offers $100 off Drone Pilot Ground School Part 107 test prep appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Last-minute Christmas gift ideas for dronies

Christmas is less than a week away, and you might have a dronie in your life in need of some last-minute Christmas gifts. Sure, it might be too late to order a drone in the mail and have it arrive in time for Christmas. But there are plenty of other gift ideas that don’t require online shopping — and some of them are even free or cheap.

Here are my best last-minute Christmas gift ideas for dronies:

Photo prints (starting at $0.17)

Here’s a gift that might cost less than a dollar: prints of drone photos. A drone photographer would surely appreciate a printed copy of one of their pieces. Print to the size and quality that fits your budget (and maybe throw in a frame too.

While Amazon Photos makes photo printing supremely easy (you simply upload a photo file to their website, select the size and type of print you want, and type in an address), those might not ship in time. Though, you can also head to some Walgreens, Target or Fedex, and they can print out photos instantly, or within a few hours for you as well.

This gift idea is unique, personal and budget-friendly.

Drone landing pad ($15-17)

Here’s a gift that’s super affordable and should apply by Christmas: the Ruggard drone landing pad.

Ruggard offers two sizes, and both are on sale over at B&H Photo. The 22″ version is $10 off, down to $15 (from $25), while the 30″ version is an even bigger $18 off, down to $17 (from $35).

And both of these pads are currently in-stock as of publication time and able to be shipped within two days. If you place an order of $49 or more, shipping is even free.

Touchscreen Gloves ($6-10)

These touch screen gloves are super affordable — and this particular brand ships quickly. If you’re really shopping last-minute, you might need to head to a brick and mortar store. Luckily, you can typically find touchscreen gloves at most major big box retailers like Target or Walmart.

Touchscreen gloves are imperative for drone pilots in the winter so you can keep your hands while still being able to use your touchscreen (which drone flying often requires).

Drone Pilot Ground School Part 107 test prep

Drone Pilot Ground School’s Part 107 test prep course (starting at $299)

Given that this is a digital gift, no shipping delays or supply change shortages will be a problem here. Gift your favorite dronie the gift of knowledge!

If you have a loved one who flies drones for fun, they can turn their hobby into a money-making business. The Federal Aviation Administration requires that any commercial drone operator pass its Aeronautical Knowledge Test to earn a drone pilot’s license. To pass that test, I recommend enrolling in a Part 107 online training course like Drone Pilot Ground School. Their digital offering includes hours of video lectures, practices tests and a concise cram sheet.

While their basic FAA testing course is usually $299, you can use coupon code DRONEGIRL50 to save $50 and bring your price down to just $249).

If you’re willing to spend more, Drone Pilot Ground School offers more robust and comprehensive offerings that include phone support and full-on flight training.

DARTDrones Online and virtual classe (30% off)

In a very similar vein to Drone Pilot Ground School is DARTdrones. Once again, this gift doesn’t demand any sort of shipping, nor does it require wrapping.

Their Part 107 test prep courses make for a fantastic digital gift, and can be done on your own time. And, if you want to gift something a bit more interactive, DARTdrones offers that too. There’s also virtual versions of both Part 107 Test Prep and Basic Flight training, but those ones are held live.

And for drone pilots seriously seeking to up-level their skills, consider one of the more advanced live (yet still virtual) courses including an Inspections workshop, which teaches experienced Part 107 pilots how to safely and effectively maneuver their aircraft in order to gather and analyze aerial inspection data.

Sign up for any one of those classes here, and enter promo code HOLIDAY23 to save.

Adobe Creative Cloud subscription ($450)

Here’s another idea of a digital gift that’s incredibly valuable.

For drone pilots who take photos or videos, they’ll want an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, which is a suite of software including Adobe Premiere for video editing, Lightroom and Photoshop for photo editing, and Dreamweaver for website design.

This gift is super last-minute friendly. Once you check out, you’ll near-instantly get an email with a link and instructions for how to download it sent to your inbox within minutes. It’s discounted to just $450 on Amazon. That’s more than 30% off the usual $660 list price.

Other Christmas 2023 drone deals that are too good to pass up

Here are a few other INCREDIBLE deals. Unless there’s some sort of Christmas miracle, you’re unlikely to actually get these delivered by Christmas. However, if Santa gave you some Christmas money that you’re looking to spend, or you’re okay exchanging belated Christmas gifts, consider these awesome drone deals:

DJI Mini 4 Pro Drone Fly More Combo with RC 2 and Memory Card + Landing Pad Kit

This decked out kit usually costs $1,226, but it’s more than $100 off at just $1,099. In fact, according to B&H Photo, this is their top-selling drone kit. But perhaps it’s a little too popular for its own good. It’s temporarily out of stock, with expected availability within 7-10 business days.

This deal is best found at B&H Photo — and is far better than similar offerings elsewhere. For example, the $1,099 version of the DJI Mini 4 Pro kit sold by Amazon gets you the Fly More Combo but nothing more — meaning no bonus memory card or landing pad kit. However, if you DO want a DJI Mini 4 Pro and need it by Christmas, buying it on Amazon is your best bet, as free two-day shipping is an option.

DJI Mini 2 SE Fly More Combo Drone

According to B&H Photo, this is the retailer’s best-selling ‘budget pick’ drone. It’s always under $500, but right now it’s an additional $40 off, down to just $449.

With the DJI Mini 2 SE comes a more affordable version of the Mini 2. It offers 36 mph flight speed, up to 6.2-mile OcuSync 2.0 video transmission, QuickShots and panorama intelligent pre-programmed flight modes.

Autel Robotics EVO Lite+ Premium Bundle

While it retailers for $1,259, Amazon is offering an incredible $280 coupon, which is applied at checkout, for this drone kit, the Autel Robotics EVO Lite+ Premium Bundle. That’s an incredible deal, putting it below the milestone $1,00 price point at just $979 once the coupon is applied.

As it’s the Autel Robotics EVO Lite+ Premium Bundle, it also includes bonus goodies such as an SD card, ND filters and a shoulder bag, among other accessories.

What ideas do you have for a last-minute Christmas gift for a drone pilot? Share your thoughts (including items you’d actually want!) in the comments below. Who knows? You could help another Santa out!

The post Last-minute Christmas gift ideas for dronies appeared first on The Drone Girl.

The 11 best Cyber Monday 2023 drone deals we found

Black Friday deals used to be about massive long lines at department stores to find the best deals, while Cyber Monday was created to encourage online shopping. And not only are we online shopping this year, but Cyber Monday 2023 is bringing tons of incredible drone deals.

With more sales than ever, you may be experiencing some consumer fatigue or indecision. Are those deals good? Are you missing out on a better deal? After all, we already shared many Black Friday 2023 drone deals early last week and even more deals on actual Black Friday 2023.

The Drone Girl found the 11 best Cyber Monday 2023 drone deals, so you can stop worrying if there’s a better deal out there and focus on what matters: purchasing the perfect gift. 

Keep in mind that most Cyber Monday 2023 deals end tonight at midnight, so you’ll want to act fast.  

1. 30% off the DJI Avata (save up to $429)

Several DJI products, including other drones, are discounted, but the DJI Avata takes the prize for the largest markdown of any DJI product. 

Both the DJI Avata Explorer Combo and Pro-View Combos are on sale now till midnight. The Explorer Combo comes with the DJI Goggles Integra while the Pro-View comes with the DJI Goggles 2. Here is our full guide on how to turn the Mavic 3 into an FPV drone, along with a more detailed breakdown of the two types of DJI FPV goggles. 

For Cyber Monday 2023, you can get either combo for under $1,000. For an FPV drone that is perfect for flying inside and still has a high-quality camera, that is a pretty solid deal. 

If you have all been thinking about getting into the world of drone racing, it’ll be hard to find a better deal than this. 

2. Drone Pilot’s Ground School Part 107 test prep course $107 off all courses 

The Drone Ground School’s Black Friday, or Fly-Day, sale has been extended until Nov. 30th. It’s not just a fantastic deal; it’s also a thoughtful gift, as passing the Part 107 test is a crucial step for any serious drone pilot

Plus, the Drone Pilot Ground School is one of the best Part 107 drone test prep courses. 

The Drone Pilot Ground School’s Fly-Day sale offers three different test-prep package levels to choose from, each $107 off. 

Also, the Guided Study course is rarely on sale, another reason why it has made our list of best deals. With a pass or don’t pay guarantee on all three programs, your gift comes with added assurance that you’ve made the right choice. 

  • Purchase the Drone Pilot Ground School test prep course through this link and the sale price will automatically apply. 
Sally French, The Drone Girl, reviews the Autel Evo Lite+ in May 2022.

3. 20% off the Autel EVO Lite+ Drone (save $210) 

The Autel EVO Lite+ is one of the top non-DJI camera drones and is also one of the best non-DJI drone deals for Cyber Monday 2023. The Autel EVO Lite+ stands out by offering a blend of the DJI Mavic 3’s impressive features while maintaining a price point in line with the DJI Mini 3 Pro (and that’s before the discount).

With a 1-inch CMOS sensor and 6K video capabilities, it’s an ideal gift for photographers seeking a high-end drone without the budget for a DJI Mavic 3. 

Priced at $799 (usually $1,139), the package includes the drone, remote controller, battery, and more. While the Autel EVO Lite+ is available on sale at both B&H Photo and Amazon, opting for Amazon will save you an additional $10.

4. 25% off the Freefly Alta X (save $3,800)

Discounts on enterprise drone gear are a rarity due to the nature of commercial equipment, as businesses are typically less price-sensitive compared to consumers. Therefore, most Cyber Monday 2023 deals typically focus on consumer gear. 

However, if you’re starting a small business or are a thrifty business owner, seize the opportunity to benefit from this uncommon deal on an American-made drone.  

5. 22% off the Autel Robotics EVO II DUAL 640T RTK Rugged Bundle V3 (save $1,200)

The Freefly Alta X isn’t the only enterprise drone on sale, though. Here’s another solid enterprise pick that isn’t just on sale, but it’s already far cheaper to begin with — making it a potentially better pick for startups or sole proprietor businesses.

The Autel Robotics EVO II DUAL 640T RTK Rugged Bundle V3 stands out as a critical tool for public safety use cases, thanks to its dual 50MP 4K HDR visual camera and 640 x 512 thermal imaging camera.

Cyber Monday 2023 DJI Mini 4 Pro

6. 43% off the FPVtosky hard case (save $30)

Of all the Cyber Monday 2023 drone cases on sale, this one offered the biggest discount for the best value. The case is designed specifically for the recently released DJI Mini 4 Pro (but also works with the DJI Mini 3 Pro).

It’s a waterproof hard case with a sturdy and stable handle, which is easy to lift.

For drones other than the Mini 4 Pro, there are excellent on-sale options available, regardless of your drone model. For example, The Nanuk 925 case made for the DJI Mavic 3 Pro/Pro Cine is on sale at B&H Photo (now $149.96, originally $199.95).

Cyber Monday 2023 DJI Action 2

7. 23% off the DJI Action 2 Dual Screen Combo & Power Combo (save $90)

This is the biggest non-drone DJI product discount we have seen for Cyber Monday 2023. The DJI Action 2 has a modular design, primarily holding gadgets and gizmos together via magnetism.  

It’s the perfect compact camera for on-the-go video recording. The Action 2 is an excellent gift for anyone who loves filming videos! The camera quality is excellent, even in indoor environments. 

8. 42% off the Samsung PRO Plus microSD memory card + adapter (save up to $16)

The Samsung PRO Plus microSD memory card recently made our list as one of the best memory cards for drones. Memory cards are ideal for drone users because you can never have too many! 

Various configurations and deals are available based on memory card size and the inclusion of a USB reader. The cheapest option is a 128 GB card for $10.99, a perfect stocking stuffer. However, the biggest savings come in if you purchase the 256 GB with a USB reader.

Cyber Monday 2023 JBL Headphones

9. 50% off JBL wireless on-ear headphones (save $25)

This is the best non-drone-related product deal you’ll find on this list. And while technically not for your drone, they will very likely be well-received by the type of person who loves drones.  

Finding a product with over a 40% discount is rare these days, making the JBL headphones at 50% off quite a significant deal. 

The headphones feature the JBL pure bass sound, Bluetooth connectivity, and 40 hours of battery life. Plus, beyond their functional benefits headphones have become fashion accessories and the JBL headphones come in four different colors: black, blue, white, and rose. 

DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo

10. 12% off the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo (save $99)

Though not as substantial as the DJI Avata discount, the DJI Mini 3 is already reasonably priced, making any discount a welcome addition. 

With the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo, you’ll get the Mini 3, the RC controller, a shoulder bag, intelligent flight batteries, and other accessories. The DJI Mini line is often known as DJI’s drone line for beginners. The Fly More combo comes with everything a beginner needs, so I can’t think of a better gift for the novice drone lover in your life. 

If you do end up purchasing this as a first-time drone, consider the Drones 101 course from Drone Launch Academy, the course is currently 50% off. 

DJI Mini 2 SE

11. 17% off the DJI Mini 2 SE Drone (save $40) — plus gift with purchase

Look, the DJI Mini 2 SE drone is not necessarily my favorite of the bunch of DJI drones under $500, but it’s so hard to pass up this drone given the price point. It’s normally $340, but given its Cyber Monday 2023 sale price at $299, that puts this in the realm of so many more aspiring Santas.

Ultimately someone who is less cost-conscious should go for the above DJI Mini 3 deal. But if you’re looking to give someone a high-quality drone under $300, this is the best deal you’ll find — it’s hardly even a question.

Plus, when you buy it this Cyber Monday from B&H Photo, they throw in a nice little bonus gift — a free propeller holder. That’s not huge (it’s worth about $11) on its own, but it makes for a nice little bonus stocking stuffer.

Purchase the DJI Mini 2 SE Drone: now $299, originally $340 on B&H Photo

The post The 11 best Cyber Monday 2023 drone deals we found appeared first on The Drone Girl.

2023 Black Friday: even more drone deals newly announced

Hope your Thanksgiving was filled with turkey and love! Now tomorrow is Black Friday — but most of the biggest deals start today (if they haven’t already started). It seems the sales get bigger every year, and 2023 Black Friday is no exception.

Whether you’re an experienced drone pilot or a newcomer looking to purchase your first drone, this year’s 2023 Black Friday brings drone deals tailored to a range of products. 

Many of the deals started especially early this year (we spotted many Black Friday 2023 drone deals last week!), but even more just came in today. Throughout the week and into today, we’ve scoured the sales for the best Black Friday drone deals of 2023. From DJI’s cutting-edge technology to funny drone stocking stuffers, we’ve found the best discounts for every budget. 

While most sales (particularly the DJI products) are scheduled to end on Cyber Monday (Nov. 27), many Amazon deals do not have an announced ending date and could end at any time (so snag any deals you see now). 

Here are the best 2023 Black Friday drone deals so far (we will continue to update this tomorrow and through Cyber Monday as we find more): 

DJI 2023 Black Friday deals (all sales end Nov. 27)

Save up to $429 on DJI Avata Combos

If you have been thinking about getting into drone racing, now is the time. At 30% off, the DJI Avata is the largest markdown of any DJI product. Up until Nov. 27, you can purchase the DJI Avata Explorer Combo for $889.

The DJI Avata is an FPV drone that is just 405 grams and is perfect for flying inside (but also flies well outside in most cases). With the DJI Avata, you can fly through door frames and under tables, making dramatic turns and tight fits through furniture and buildings. Plus, you don’t lose out on quality footage with the Avata high-quality camera. 

The DJI Avata Pro-View Combo is also on sale for $999 (originally $1,428). The difference between the two combos is that the Explorer Combo comes with the DJI Goggles Integra while the Pro-View comes with DJI Goggles 2.

Both the DJI Goggles Integra and DJI Goggles 2 are similar in size, video transmission performance, and screen display. The Integra is cheaper, while unsurprisingly, the Goggles 2 is more powerful and has upgraded features.

Here is our full guide on how to turn the Mavic 3 into an FPV drone, along with a more detailed breakdown of the two types of DJI FPV goggles.

Save up to $260 on the DJI Air 2s

If you are shopping for an on-the-go photographer, you have come to the right spot. The DJI Air 2s is incredible for photographers who prioritize budget and portability. 

This small drone has a massive 1” sensor offering 20-megapixel photos and 5.4K video. That’s the same as what you get in the larger, more expensive Mavic 2 Pro.  

There are a few options for the DJI Air 2s currently on sale. If you already own a DJI RC-N1 controller, then I would recommend purchasing the DJI Air 2s: now $759, originally $949 on Amazon.

If you don’t have a controller, then you’ll want to buy the DJI Air 2s Fly More combo which is currently 20% off.

DJI Mini 3 discount drone

Save $143.64 on the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo (DJI RC)

With the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo, you’ll get the Mini 3, the RC controller, a shoulder bag, intelligent flight batteries, and other accessories. 

The Mini 3 Fly More Combo is usually $798, but is on sale for $654. The DJI Mini line is often known as DJI’s drone line for beginners. So this Fly More combo comes with everything you need, I can’t think of a better gift for the novice drone lover in your life. If you do end up purchasing this as a first-time drone, consider the Drones 101 course from Drone Launch Academy, the course is currently 50% off. 

Notable features of the DJI Mini 3 features include its lightweight (249 grams), long flight time, and 4K HDR video. 

DJI Mini 2 SE

Save $40 on the DJI Mini 2 SE 

If you want an even more inexpensive drone, look no further than another drone in the DJI Mini line, the DJI Mini 2 SE. 

Hands down, there is no better drone under $400 than the DJI Mini 2 SE. And during the Black Friday sale, you can get that drone for under $300. The DJI Mini 2 SE is currently on sale for $298. 

DJI Goggles Integra

Save up to $160 on DJI drone accessories 

Perhaps the person you are shopping for already has a DJI drone but is looking to turn that drone into an FPV drone. Gift them the DJI Goggles 2 and DJI Goggles Integra, which are both on sale. 

The DJI Goggles 2 has a larger discount (20% off) and is more powerful with upgraded features. The Goggles Integra is 15% and less powerful, but lighter than the DJI Goggles 2. 

The Goggles 2 Motion Combo is also 20% off. The DJI Goggles Motion 2 Combo comes with the Goggles 2 and the RC Motion 2. This combo is compatible with the Mavic 3 series, Avata, and Mini 3 Pro drones. If deciding between the Goggles 2 or the Combo, I would recommend the combo. The addition of the controller gives you the true FPV experience.

If you already own the RC Motion 2, just stick with the Goggles 2.

Save up to $240 on other DJI products 

If you are shopping for the drone lover in your life, chances are they are either an adventurer, a photographer, or both. Whether they are vlogging, or mountain biking, DJI has products on sale that are sure to be a hit.

The DJI RSC 2 is a compact gimbal for mirrorless cameras with a smart, folding design and smooth stabilization. The combo pack has additional accessories with the RSC 2 gimbal, like the DJI Ronin RavenEye image transmission system, a focus motor, a phone holder, and more.

The DJI RSC 2 Pro Combo is on sale at B&H and Amazon, although you’ll save an additional $100 if you purchase on B&H.

DJI’s action cameras are a great addition to any drone lover’s travel bag and two are on sale for Black Friday. The Osmo Action 3 is a waterproof action camera, similar to a GoPro. The Osmo Action 3 camera is currently 15% off, saving you $50. 

Another DJI action camera, the Action 2 Dual Screen Combo & Power Combo, is currently on sale for 23% off (down to just. $309). The DJI Action 2 has a modular design, primarily holding gadgets and gizmos together via magnetism. 

Drone pilot courses and workshops are on sale for 2023 Black Friday

Give the gift of knowledge this year with a drone pilot test prep course or workshop. Anyone who plans on flying drones commercially (that means you’re making money in some capacity from your flight), then the Federal Aviation Administration requires you to hold a Remote Pilot Certificate – commonly referred to as a drone pilot license. 

In order to get the license, you’ll need to pass the online Part 107 test.  Passing the test takes some prep work, so we recommend going through an online Part 107 training course. Some of the best Part 107 test prep courses are on sale for Black Friday. 

Don’t worry if the person you are shopping for already has passed the Part 107 test. There are also some workshops on sale for almost every niche drone hobby (or even better — small business venture!) you can think of. 

2023 Black friday drone deals Drone Pilot Ground School

Save $107 on Drone Pilot’s Ground School’s Part 107 test prep course 

The Drone Ground School’s Black Friday sale, or Fly-Day sale, began way back on Thursday, Nov. 9, and runs until Nov. 24. The Drone Pilot Ground School is one of the best Part 107 drone test prep courses.  It’s the course Drone Girl herself, Sally French, took and passed the Federal Aviation Administration’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test on her first try. 

The Drone Pilot Ground School’s Fly-Day sale offers three different test-prep package levels to choose from, each $107 off. 

And since all three programs have a pass or don’t pay guarantee, your gift will have an extra reassurance that you’ve made the right choice. 

  • Purchase the Drone Pilot Ground School test prep course through this link and the sale price will automatically apply. 
Black friday 2023 drone launch academy

Save $99.50 on Drone Launch Academy’s Part 107 test prep 

The Drone Launch Academy is also getting in on all the Black Friday sales. Buy a course by Cyber Monday (Nov. 27) for a 50% discount and enjoy 4 free months of Drone Launch Connect membership for free! 

It’s pretty major to see the test prep course listed for $99.50 (normally $199) because — even prior to the sale — it made the list of the best Part 107 online test prep programs for those on a budget. While Drone Launch’s discount is less in terms of dollars versus Drone Pilot Ground School’s, the relative discount is actually bigger — and the total price you pay is far lower.

Even if you aren’t ready to spend what we consider a great rate of $99.50 for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot exam prep course, Drone Launch Academy has a ton of other cheaper Part 107 test prep gift options, all 50% off.  

2023 black friday drone launch academy

Save up to $299 on Drone Launch Academy’s boot camps and workshops

In addition to Part 107 courses, Drone Launch Academy is offering 50% off of all their other courses and workshops (all deals run through Nov. 27th). 

If the drone lover in your life has already passed the Part 107 test and is ready to take their drone business or new hobby to the next level, Drone Launch Academy has workshops to fit every niche drone hobby. 

One standout is Drone to $1K: An 8-Week Drone Business Building Bootcamp (now $299.50, originally $599), where you’ll learn how to get your first client, how to form an LLC, how to build a strong online presence, the ins and outs of marketing, how to set up more of the back office side of your business, and more. 

The Real Estate Media Pro course (now $199.50, originally $399) is another popular course for newer entrepreneurs as there’s a relatively low barrier to entry. You’ll learn how to capture high-quality real estate photos, videos, 3D tours, and drone footage that will wow your clients.  

A similar but more affordable course is the Landing and Working with Real Estate Video Clients course (now $49.50, originally $99) or Landing Real Estate Clients through Instagram course (now $49.50, originally $99).

From Drone Mapping and Modeling Fundamentals to Aerial Video A to Z, all Drone Launch Academy courses are 50% off. Check out their full list of courses and workshops here.

Non-DJI drones on sale for Black Friday

Given its massive market share, DJI dominates the conversations around consumer drones. However, this Black Friday there are plenty of non-DJI drones on sale for any budget.

Sally French, The Drone Girl, reviews the Autel Evo Lite+ in May 2022.

Save $210 on Autel EVO Lite+ Drone

The Autel Evo Lite+ is our pick for the best non-DJI camera drone you can buy. The Autel Evo Lite+ drone stands out given how it bridges the gap between some of the Mavic 3’s most swoon-worthy features but at a price point much closer to the DJI Mini 3 Pro.

The drone packs a large, 1-inch CMOS sensor into a relatively small package, thus you get a pretty remarkable ability to capture 6K video. The EVO Lite+ is an excellent gift for a photographer looking for a higher-end drone who doesn’t have the budget for something like a DJI Mavic 3.

For $799 (usually $1,139), you’ll get the drone, remote controller, battery and more. The Autel EVO Lite+ is on sale on B&H and Amazon, but you’ll save an extra $10 if you purchase it on Amazon.

Save $66 on the HoverAir x1 

The HoverAir X1 is already relatively inexpensive. For 2023 Black Friday, you can get the HoverAir X1 for $399, originally $445. Don’t expect a DJI-quality drone, but the HoverAir X1 offers features that most drones can’t: the ability to fly indoors, near people, record sound, and fly totally hands-free. 

The HoverAir X1 makes a great gift for younger drone lovers or vloggers. 

Save $20 on the DEERC D20 Mini Drone for kids 

This is an excellent drone toy for kids. Flying is simple by tapping one button, and the drone is equipped with special features like altitude hold and emergency stop. Also, voice control and gesture features are sure to amaze even the tough kid critics. 

The D20 toy drone is currently 29% off on Amazon (the end of the sale date is unclear) and comes in 5 different colors. 

Save $3,800 on the Freefly Alta X (aircraft only with F9P GPS)

The Alta X is a relative newcomer to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Blue UAS Cleared list.

The Alta X is Freefly Systems’ sixth generation of drones designed to fly in tough environments. Additionally, they’re designed and manufactured in the U.S. and are designed for a range of missions. Notable capabilities include open architecture, VTOL, and up to 35 lbs of usable payload capacity.

More 2023 Black Friday drone-related deals

As mentioned, we will continue to update this post as we find more deals, but as of now, here are some deals to pique any drone lover’s interest. 

Save $49.99 on the Nanuk 925 waterproof hard case for Mavic 3 Pro/Pro Cine

The hard-shell Nanuk case provides impact protection and is water and dust-resistant. The case can be even more submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. Everything inside is kept safe and organized with dedicated custom-cut form compartments.

The case comes in 6 different colors and can hold a Mavic 3 Pro with the Fly More Combo accessory bundle or a Mavic 3 Pro Cine with DJI RC remote with accessories.

Save $16 on a Samsung PRO Plus memory card + reader 

The Samsung PRO Plus microSD memory card recently made our list as one of the best memory cards for drones and it is on sale for $22 (originally $38). 

Memory cards make perfect gifts for drone users because you can never have enough! No one wants to be out filming footage and read the alert “memory low”. Give the gift of peace of mind, by buying a memory card. Please note, that this memory card is an Amazon Black Friday flash deal, so there is no way of knowing when this deal may end, so act fast! 

Save $25 on the NiSi filmmaker filter kit plus for DJI Mavic 3

This filter kit can enhance video footage thanks to the ND32 and ND64 filters that reduce light into the Mavic 3 lens by 5 and 6 stops. They also feature IR technology to ensure accurate color cast.

The filters are 20% off but keep in mind these drones only work with a DJI Mavic 3 drone.

Save $18 on the Ruggard DLP-30 30″ drone landing pad

Easily locate where to land, and shield your drone from damage with this drone landing pad from Ruggard. On sale for $16.95, it is hard to pass up.

The Ruggard drone landing pad comes with three pegs to stay in place and has a collapsible design, so you can store it easily in the included zippered carrying bag.

Save $15 on the Lume Cube Strobe anti-collision light for drones

This is not only a thoughtful gift, but one that’ll ensure you are following FAA guidelines when flying at night. Each strobe light includes a 3M dual-lock mount and a micro-USB charging cable, and it’s compatible with any drone.

Save $9.60 on the Airdrop Device for the DJI Mini 2 series

Give the gift of the ultimate party trick this holiday season. Get creative and turn your drone into a delivery device. This airdrop device is compatible with DJI Mini/Mini SE, Mini 2/Mini 2 SE.

The airdrop device is easy to install and comes with one quick-release controller. This airdrop device is currently 20% off and can be used for everything from delivering food to throwing fishing bait.

Drone-related stocking stuffers (gifts under $15)

Sometimes great things come in small, budget-friendly packages. So, we’ve rounded up some of the best drone stocking stuffers sure to delight any drone enthusiast without breaking the bank.

Save $6.50 on a protective cover for a DJI RC remote

On sale for only $8.49, this Mini 3 Pro protective cover makes the perfect little stocking stuffer. The 2 in 1 design gives users a protective cover, but also a hood. Anyone who has ever flown a drone on a sunny day would appreciate anything to stop the glare on their controller.

Save $2.99 on the Pgytech Control Stick Protector for DJI Mavic Mini & Mini SE controllers

Snap the control stick protector onto your DJI Mavic Mini or Mavic SR gimbal controller to protect it while not in use. These protective caps fit over the joysticks and allow the joysticks to remain attached while carrying the controller giving you extra protection over your drone controller. 

Save $3.20 on the Batschkim 4-in-2 charger for DJI products

This Betschkim charger for DJI Mini 4 Pro, Mini 3 Pro, Mini 2 SE, Air 3, and Air 2S is on the top of my wish list, as I almost always forget to charge something when I am heading out for a day of drone flying. This 4 in 2 USB-C cable is specially designed for DJI devices and the charging set supports multi-slot fast charging for up to 4 devices simultaneously.

The charger is currently 20% off and is compatible with many other DJI products like Goggles 2, Osmo Action, and more.

Save $3.50 on a lanyard neck strap and joysticks for the DJI RC/RC 2 controller 

For $13.59, you’ll get an adjustable leather lanyard and 1 pair of joysticks. No need to worry if your gift will be used, the comfortable lanyard is sure to join the drone pilot on every flight. The lanyard and joysticks are designed for DJI RC/RC 2 controllers. 

Deals on non-drone products that drone pilots love

These products are technically not for your drone, but they will very likely be well-received by the type of person who loves drones. 

Save $30 on Ring indoor camera (2nd gen)

Drone pilots likely have some pretty precious (and probably expensive) belongings in their homes that they would want to keep safe. 

The all-new Ring indoor camera has color night vision, two-way talk, and manual audio, and is currently 50% off now. The Ring indoor camera gives you protection and privacy in your home. The Ring cam is on sale from Amazon as a flash deal, so it is difficult to say when the deal might end. 

Save $10 on a limited edition Star Wars stand for Amazon Echo Dot 

Let’s be honest, most of us drone lovers are also nerds. Just look at the first drone light show The Drone Girl ever saw in person. That’s why we couldn’t pass up this deal. Amazon is currently selling a Darth Vadar, The Mandalorian, and Stormtropper stand for your Amazon Echo Dot for $30, originally $40. 

These themed stands are sure to delight any Star Wars nerd and can be easily placed on a table, desk, or nightstand for a great statement piece. Make sure, the person you are purchasing for already owns an Amazon Echo Dot (4th or 5th generation) otherwise these stands are useless. 

Save $6 on the Foroxin journal notebook 

Personally, I always have my notebook in my drone bag whenever out flying. Whether it’s to jot down something to remember for my next flight or something to look up later, my drone notebook is a trusty companion when I am out exploring. 

The journal comes in nine colors and has the option of a ruler or a blank notebook. It’s a good stocking stuffer for the drone lover, or really anyone in your life, and is on sale now for $6.44. 

Save $24.95 on JBL wireless on-ear headphones

Certainly, when editing my hours of drone footage, high-quality headphones are a must. These JBL headphones feature the JBL pure bass sound, Bluetooth connectivity, and 40 hours of battery life. The headphones are currently 50% off on Amazon. Plus, beyond their functional benefits headphones have become fashion accessories and the JBL headphones come in four different colors: black, blue, white, and rose. (If anyone is reading this and is looking for a gift for me, personally, I love the rose color.)

Have you found any great 2023 Black Friday drone deals? Tell us about it in the comments or on Instagram @thedronegirl.

The post 2023 Black Friday: even more drone deals newly announced appeared first on The Drone Girl.