At this point, you likely already have a Part 107 drone license (which is required to fly drones commercially). But how do you actually make money with it? “The Drone Business Blueprint” can help you make money off your drone.

“The Drone Business Blueprint” is the latest course from UAV Coach, which first came onto the scene with its Drone Pilot Ground School Part 107 test prep course. Perhaps not coincidentally, Drone Girl considers the UAV Coach course one of the best drone pilot’s license courses (and it’s the one The Drone Girl herself used to pass the Part 107 test).

The Drone Business Blueprint course costs $418 (but is currently on sale for $199 in what’s a pretty killer introductory offer).

Still, $200 isn’t cheap. Alas, It seems you have to spend money just for the potential to make money. So is it worth it? Here’s a deep dive into what to expect when you enroll in The Drone Business Blueprint, and our take on whether it’s worth it:

What you get with The Drone Business Blueprint

The Drone Business Blueprint is a detailed, step-by-step guide covering important areas like niche development, marketing strategies, and financial management. Each module includes practical tools like templates and worksheets, which can help you take what you learn and apply it to your own business.

Among the top modules that separate this drone business course from any other business course is the emphasis on finding your niche. Most pilots find more success when they hone in on just real estate, just weddings, or just mapping — rather than trying to do it all. This course provides concrete exercises and planning frameworks to help you figure out where you fit in the industry.

Drone entrepreneur Eno Umoh leads the course. His background in running drone businesses includes teaching over 18,000 students, establishing a non-profit, and being the co-founder of Global Air U. I appreciate how he shared his own, practical real-world advice.

For example, Umoh shares a story of when he was working on service-based jobs in the field, he didn’t have the time to create a ton of marketing-based content on social media. So, he shares tips and strategies on best practices to simplify those processes. 

The course also strongly embraces the present with its acknowledgment of AI integration. Whether or not you like what AI has done to today’s job market, AI integration is inescapable these days, and that includes the drone industry. Whether it’s automating tasks or analyzing data, the course shows you how to integrate AI into your business to gain a competitive edge.

Our review of the new Drone Business Blueprint course

For better or for worse, the new Drone Business Blueprint course is more of an overview rather than a deep dive into each topic. (Most of the lesson videos are around 10 minutes long). If you already know your primary goal is, say, learning financial management, you might be better with a course teaching that (whether or not it’s drone-specific). But for pilots who love drones and aren’t sure where to get started? Well, this is a good place to get started.

As a former educator, I value courses that go beyond simple video lecture style.  The Drone Business Blueprint course incorporates interactive learning throughout. The downloadable templates and real-time feedback make the course feel like a hands-on workshop rather than just another online class. It allows you to put your learning into practice right away.

The course includes approximately 10 hours of learning content. It’s also refreshingly honest. It doesn’t promise overnight success, but it gives you the tools and guidance to make real progress if you’re willing to put in the effort.

While the course covers many valuable skills that are transferable to any business, such as the ABC sales funnel, lead magnets, and creating a business plan, what sets it apart from standard business courses is its deep understanding of the drone industry.

For example, lessons on pricing your drone services and navigating the specific insurance and legal considerations unique to the drone business make this course highly relevant for aspiring drone entrepreneurs. These industry-specific insights provide a significant advantage over general business courses.

Who should take this course?

If you’re serious about turning your drone skills into a profitable business but feel like you need that extra push or guidance, The Drone Business Blueprint could be a smart investment. 

The drone industry is full of potential, offering opportunities for flexible work and the chance to be your own boss. However, starting a drone business isn’t easy—there are skills to master, legal hurdles to clear, and significant costs like equipment and insurance. Finding your niche can also feel overwhelming. 

Whether you’re struggling to define your niche in the drone industry or need help developing a sustainable business plan, this course offers practical steps to get you on track. 

However, if you’re already an experienced entrepreneur or looking for highly specialized, advanced content in any one of these areas, this course might not be for you. It’s more suited for those who need a solid foundation and practical guidance to get their drone business off the ground.

Normally, the course costs $418 for lifetime access. However, the course is currently on sale for $119. Additionally, as part of the introductory offer, you will receive UAV Coach’s Drone Pilot Skill Builder course free if you purchase before October 3rd. 

You can learn more and sign up for the course here.

The post The Drone Business Blueprint: a review of UAV Coach’s newest course  appeared first on The Drone Girl.

The consumer drone world has three new hand-launch drones to pick from — all of which were announced in the past two weeks.

At the end of August 2024, ZeroZero Robotics announced the HOVERAir X1 PRO and HOVERAir X1 PROMAX. Both are upgraded versions of the older model, the HoverAir X1. (For now, they’re not actually shipping — just available for pre-order).

And a couple weeks later — in early September — DJI announced the Neo drone. Like the HOVERAir drones, Neo is also not yet shipping in the U.S. at least. Though it’s already shipping in other countries, it’s only around now for pre-order. Neo is set to ship Oct. 6.

The drones have some similarities. Both are hand-launch style, with an emphasis on selfie flying. Additionally, both are made by Chinese drone companies. And perhapps most critically? Both are ultra-lightweight, coming in well below the critical sub-250-gram drone weight. That exempts them from many types of regulation.

But beyond that, they’re actually fairly different. DJI Neo is the cheapest of the bunch. And sure, DJI has a tendency to undercut the competition, but a big factor in the lower price tag is that Neo has (for the most part) inferior specs relative to the HOVERAir X1 offerings.

I’ve extensively covered the best, affordable DJI drones across my site already, so I’ll spare you the comparisons between DJI Neo versus other DJI drones.

But given their hand-launch similarities, Neo and the HOVERAir X1 drones have left shoppers wondering which of these sets of drones are best. With that, here’s a comparison between DJI versus the HOVERAir X1 lineup, which includes the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX, HOVERAir X1 PRO and HOVERAir X1 drones:

All four hand-launch drones, compared

Here’s a look at these four drones at a glance:

Key differences between DJI Neo versus HoverAir X1 drones

I’ve dug deep into these drones on their own on separate pages. Check out my ultimate guide to the DJI Neo and my guide to the new HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX drones.

Since the DJI Neo isn’t out yet, that guide is fully based on specs. I did get to fly the HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX drones, though it was at a press event where I flew in a semi-controlled environment. Drone Girl staff writer did fully, personal review the original HoverAir X1 drone, which is extensive and critical.

With that in mind, here are some major standout differences — and my pick for the winner based on each spec:

Outdoor flying

Winner: HOVERAir X1 PRO and HOVERAir X1 PROMAX

Both of these two drones have Level 5 windspeed resistance, versus Level 4 on the other two. That’s the difference between flying in a breeze (Level 5), and ideally avoiding even light breezes (Level 4).

Of course neither of them is something you’d want to fly in any sort of significant weather. You’ll need a more powerful drone for that. For example, the DJI Air 3 is even stronger at Level 6 (and plenty of enterprise-oriented drones can even fly in outright storms.

Additionally, the HOVERAir X1 PRO and HOVERAir X1 PROMAX are designed to fly as far as 500 meters (or about a third of a mile). You won’t be flying these drones super far out. Again, plenty of other camera drones can go much farther.

But compare that to the Neo or HOVERAir X1, which only fly 50 and 30 meters, respectively. 50 meters is about as tall as The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. You might use it to fly over some shorter buildings, but don’t send this on too far out. Otherwise, it’ll automatically return to home.

Video quality

Winner: HOVERAir X1 PROMAX

This is the only one of the bunch that films in 8K. Of course, it’s the most expensive. Happily, the DJI Neo and HOVERAir X1 PRO are still capable of 4K. That’s more than sufficient for most use cases. The only drone of this bunch to skip, assuming you care about video quality, is the HOVERAir X1. Alas, it only films at 2.7K.

Check out some video I shot using the PROMAX on my Instagram (shared below):

Quality of drone hardware and overall ease of use

Winner: DJI Neo

I’ll preface this by saying I haven’t gotten my hands on the DJI Neo itself (yet). It doesn’t ship in the U.S. until October, alas! But I will say this: I had a few issues with the HoverAir X1 drones even during the press preview. We also encountered issues during our personal HoverAir X1 drone review.

For example, the HoverAir X1 controller was both cheaply made and not intuitive to use. I actually broke a piece of it off when I tried to transform it from the triple to the double piece size. I also encountered issues with the follow-me tech, where the drone couldn’t latch onto me. Once, it latched onto someone else behind me, and then proceeded to zoom right past my head (nearly clipping my face) as it tried to follow that person.

Now I have not flown the DJI Neo itself, but based on my past history of reviewing dozens of DJI drones myself, the DJI user experience is generally quite seamless. I’ve rarely had issues with build quality, and I’ve rarely broken DJI drones — even after crashing them into trees (yes, it happens to me too). The whole experience from start to finish is intuitive, all the way from takeoff to editing in the DJI app. I anticipate DJI will take its years of learnings from previous, powerhouse drones (including their enterprise aircraft like the Matrice series) all the way to other, unique consumer drones like the Cinewhoop-style Avata 2 FPV drone. It’ll them pour knowledge from building those drones into making sure that Neo is sold — all despite its $200 price tag.

Neo versus HOVERAir: who is each type of drone best for?

With that breakdown of critical specs, let’s dive into each type of drone. We’ll also uncover what type of person would most benefit from it.

DJI Neo: you want a reliable yet super cheap drone for taking selfies

At just $199, it’s tough to go wrong with DJI Neo. It works outside, and can fly a few stories high. But generally speaking, this is a tool for vloggers or content creators. Gather unique angles as the either follows you, or flies in pre-programmed flight modes (like making a circle around you).

The 4K video quality is still excellent, making it good to shoot content for your YouTube channel. And, it does offer upgrade options. That includes the chance to pair it with a remote controller (that would be the FPV Remote Controller 3), should you prefer to control your flight more seriously.

With more than 10 years of experience in making a wide range of affordable, consumer drones (and absolutely dominating the market in doing so), DJI Neo is a drone from a reliable, high-quality drone company.

• Buy DJI Neo now from Adorama for $199.
• Buy DJI Neo now from Amazon for $199.
• Buy DJI Neo now from B&H Photo for $199.
• Buy DJI Neo now from Drone Nerds for $199.

HOVERAir X1: you want an affordable alternative to DJI

There’s basically one reason to select the HOVERAir X1 at this point: it’s not a DJI drone. There are all sorts of reasons why consumers want a DJI alternative. Some folks prefer drones made in America (which this one is not, as it’s also made in China). But DJI alternatives also appeal to people seeking to minimize what’s largely considered a DJI monopoly. Some pilots just want something new to stand out from the crowd.

The HOVERAir X1 checks both of those last two boxes. However, its specs are inferior to DJI Neo on almost every level — plus it’s more expensive. If you do want to check those last two boxes, you might as well pay more for either the HOVERAir X1 PRO or HOVERAir X1 PROMAX. That way you’ll at least have superior specs to the DJI Neo.

• Buy the HOVERAir X1 now directly from ZeroZero Robotics.
• Buy the HOVERAir X1 now directly from Amazon.

HOVERAir X1 PRO: you want the PROMAX, but are on a tight budget

The HOVERAir X1 PRO packs on way more features that the DJI Neo doesn’t offer. Sure, it’s more than twice the price, but it may be worth it.

It’s more powerful in outdoor flight, and it can fly farther distances, unlocking the ability to shoot more landscape photos or wider shots of cities than you could with Neo. Active rear-side collision detection also makes it a bit safer to fly than Neo.

HOVERAir X1 PROMAX: you want the most powerful (yet portable and compact) drone you can get

If you were willing to pay double the price to get the HOVERAir X1 PRO versus DJI Neo, you might as well spring the extra $200 for the PROMAX version. Trust me, it’s worth it.

8K video on the PROMAX versus just 4K on the PRO is killer. More importantly, given my emphasis on safety, is the smarter collision detection. Whereas the PRO has just active rear-side collision detection, the PROMAX has vision-based rear-side collision detection, which effectively means smarter tech inside the PROMAX version. Consider $200 more for much more than that in terms of your peace of mind.

Just be cognizant of total cost. Sure, its starting price is $700. Bu what if you really want all the bells and whistles? Let’s say you want your own controller for better, manual flight, or you just want to spring for some ND filters to get higher-quality images. If so, expect to pay something more in the $1,000 ballpark.

Then again, once your budget is that high, you might very well consider one of the other great camera drones on the market. Of course, the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX offers the ultra-small size and hand-launch (which is actively discouraged with most other camera drones). But before making any drone purchase, nail down your priorities.

If super compact size is critical — and you’re not interested in manual flight but would rather have the drone do the work in taking your selfies — then the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is your best bet.

The post DJI Neo versus HOVERAir X1: which hand-launch drone is best? appeared first on The Drone Girl.

With the growing focus on STEAM education, the demand for engaging, hands-on learning tools is more critical than ever. DroneBlocks has become a popular choice for educators looking to bring drones into the classroom, offering a comprehensive curriculum that caters to various skill levels. So is DroneBlocks curriculum any good, and what’s it like?

I’m a former teacher, with 6 years of experience teaching early elementary. After that, I was an elementary school principal for 5 years. I’ve seen my fair share of curriculum, so I was eager to see what DroneBlocks would teach. While I’ve never previously reviewed a drone curriculum before, I put this one to the test, going through it myself with a critical, principal’s eye.

Here’s my review of the DroneBlocks curriculum, and my recommendation of what types of classrooms it’s good for.

DroneBlocks goes beyond traditional digital coding tools and classroom robots by introducing students to programming through drones. The system provides professional development resources for teachers, coding platforms for students, and a user-friendly app that makes it easy to access coding lessons right in the classroom.

Using the Crazyflie Nano drone, students can program flight patterns, movements, and directions with block-based or text-based coding.

DroneBlocks curriculum cost (and else you need what you’ll need)

DroneBlocks offers a curriculum package priced at $495 per year, granting access to over 40 courses that cover a wide range of topics. From drag-and-drop block coding to advanced programming in Python and JavaScript, the curriculum is designed to accommodate different learning stages and student abilities.

A standout feature of the curriculum is the inclusion of a drone simulator. With it, students can practice coding and flight skills in a virtual environment before flying real drones.

Originally designed for the DJI Tello, DroneBlocks shifted to using the Crazyflie Nano after DJI stopped producing the Tello. The Crazyflie Nano is available for purchase on their website individually or in bulk packages of 10 drones. (The program still supports the DJI Tello EDU.)

While there are still some references to the DJI Tello throughout the curriculum, they are minimal and unlikely to confuse students or teachers. (DroneBlocks is working on updating these references to align with the Crazyflie.)

The Crazyflie drone

Weighing just 27 grams and fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand, the Crazyflie Nano is perfect for indoor use, making it ideal for classroom settings. Its small size reduces the risk of damage to the drone and the surroundings, making it a safe and manageable option for students learning to code and fly.

The Crazyflie Nano has a relatively short flight time of just 8 minutes, with pros and cons. While it might be a short period for students eager to fly the drones, it also means educators need to find time to charge them between classes. Fortunately, the Crazyflie Nano charges quickly.

However, the short flight time encourages students to focus on coding and problem-solving. When working through simulations, they’ll need to think carefully about the most efficient coding process to get from point A to point B.

In addition to the drones, students will need access to computers. Many schools use Chromebooks, but any laptop is compatible. You’ll need at least as many laptops as drones.

DroneBlocks: professional development

Every yearly DroneBlocks curriculum purchase includes a free 2-hour professional development session. The session can be attended by any number of teachers, and I’d recommend sending all educators who will be using the curriculum.

Schools can choose a time slot that fits their schedule, though it’s a good idea to plan as slots fill up quickly. This 2-hour training isn’t just a generic overview. It’s a tailored experience that can be customized to fit teachers’ needs, interests, and questions.

The session covers everything from getting started with the drones to troubleshooting connection issues, with a focus on practical classroom applications. The training doesn’t stop at the basics—DroneBlocks provides additional tools like Miro boards for lesson planning and a custom jobs wheel program for classroom management. These thoughtful touches show that DroneBlocks understands the unique challenges educators face and is committed to supporting them every step of the way.

While teachers may find it tough to fit another two hours of training into their schedule, this particular training feels beneficial, informative, and like a general good use of time.

Given the program’s cost (especially with the added expense of drones), investing in teacher learning is essential.

A look inside the DroneBlocks curriculum

The DroneBlocks curriculum mostly hones in on teaching students how to code. It’s broken into various lessons that each entail 2-10 video lessons. Most videos are about 5 minutes long.

However, teachers shouldn’t expect to simply play the videos daily as an instructional tool. Like any curriculum, teachers will need to spend time reviewing the materials and creating a plan that works best for their classroom.

Hardware lessons

However, it does teach practical building, too. For example, the first course covers how to build the Crazyflie Nano drone. The assembly process took me about 15 minutes, guided by a mostly helpful video tutorial that was a bit tricky to follow at times. In a classroom setting, this could take at least 30 minutes, so it’s a good idea for teachers to build a drone before this class and have a clear system in place for labeling and storing the drones.

While challenging, the assembly process offers an excellent opportunity for hands-on learning, teaching students not just how to fly drones but also how they work.

Printed instructions with clearer images would have made the process smoother, and unfortunately, DroneBlocks does not supply printed materials for most courses. However, the trial and error involved in building the Crazyflie Nano adds to the learning experience. Students would likely benefit from the opportunity to problem-solve and troubleshoot during assembly, preparing them for the challenges they may face in coding and flying.

Software lessons

A standout course is “Welcome to Mars,” which challenges students to program their drones to navigate a simulated Martian landscape, blending coding with creativity and problem-solving. The curriculum creates backstories for why students need to complete missions, which helps build engagement.

Another standout course is Block Coding – Math Edition, which integrates coding exercises with math problems. This course is perfect for teachers looking to incorporate more STEM content into their lessons, as it encourages students to apply their coding skills in a mathematical context. The combination of coding and math creates a dynamic learning experience that keeps students engaged and challenged. This course also comes with printable worksheets that align with the lessons, a feature I wish all courses included.

Who is the DroneBlocks curriculum for?

The DroneBlocks curriculum, paired with the Crazyflie Nano drone, offers a rich and engaging educational experience. The curriculum is relatively affordable compared to others, but the startup costs can be significant, especially when investing in Crazyflie drones.

School administrators considering this curriculum should ensure there’s a dedicated teacher who is passionate about STEM, highly organized, and planning to stay at the school for a few years.

Next, ensure you have time in the schedule to incorporate this program, along with the necessary materials and proper classroom storage for the drones. If you have all those elements in place, the DroneBlocks curriculum can be a fantastic addition to any STEM program, combining the excitement of drone technology with the educational benefits of coding.

If you’re excited about the program but don’t have everything in place yet, consider starting small. You could purchase one Crazyflie drone and have teachers do a few whole-group activities, teach coding in small groups, or run an after-school program. From there, you can expand the program by purchasing more drones. Check out DroneBlocks here.

The post DroneBlocks curriculum: hands-on coding with Crazyflie Nano appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Earning your FAA Part 107 certification is the key to unlocking a job in drones. Under the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107, drone pilots are required to hold a Remote Pilot Certificate in order to operate commercially. Getting such a certificate (aka a drone pilot’s license) involves passing a written test. And passing that written test requires mastery of niche, aeronautical knowledge. This is where Part 107 online course kick in. So with that, here’s your Drone Pilot Ground School review — highlighting the pros and cons of one of the biggest online course providers out there.

Drone Pilot Ground School is a comprehensive, online Part 107 course provider that launched back in 2016. It’s a subset of a company called UAV Coach, which was founded in 2014 initially to provide hands-on drone flight training classes. It still offers those in-person drone flying classes, but these days its bread and butter is helping people pass their Part 107 tests. In fact, it’s the provider I used to pass on my first try!

Between 2016 and now, Drone Pilot Ground School has helped more than 60,000 students become certified drone pilots.

And today, Drone Pilot Ground School just launched a huge milestone that’s set to help it grow even bigger. The company just rolled out a major update. The new version should help it reach wider audiences and support unique learning styles. That includes newly-launched Spanish subtitles for its videos, closed captioning, personalized study plans and virtual flash cards.

Here’s my Drone Pilot Ground School review, including a look at all the new stuff in the company’s summer 2024 relaunch, as well as a comparison of how Drone Pilot Ground School stacks up against the other Part 107 online courses out there:

Drone Pilot Ground School summer sale (save $100!)

Before I get to my Drone Pilot Ground School review, I want to clue you in on a limited-time sale. Between now and August 14, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET, the company is offering $100 off all three of its package offerings. Those range from a $299 self-study option to a $549 guided study that even includes in-person flight training. (Read more about the study tiers, and how much they cost, below.)

Use this link and the discount automatically applies.

The top Drone Pilot Ground School features

DPGS equips you with the tools and knowledge essential to ace the Part 107 exam and become a certified drone pilot. Here’s what you can expect when you enroll in Drone Pilot Ground School:

Video instruction

Forget dry textbooks and monotonous lectures. DPGS features engaging video modules taught by industry professionals. These instructors break down complex regulations, airspace classifications, and drone flight procedures into clear, easy-to-understand concepts.

And in fact, the company overhauled their video library with the summer 2024 relaunch, meaning all new videos. Some of those videos address actual changes in FAA regulation since the videos were initially made. Others just offer a spruce up, better addressing common questions or explaining concepts more clearly.

If you’re curious what a lesson is like, UAV Coach has a sample lesson preview so you can get a sense for their offerings:

Quizzes that mirror the actual FAA test

DPGS goes beyond passive video learning. The course provides a comprehensive arsenal of interactive study tools to solidify your knowledge. That includes quizzes after every lesson. There are also five, full-length practice tests that mirror the real exam format.

What’s more, their answer key has full explanations of each question, clarifying why your answer is right or wrong. In fact, there are more than 400 sample questions. And when you complete the practice test, Drone Pilot Ground School sends over a performance report and breakdown of your incorrect responses.

Virtual flash cards and a cram sheet

This is a brand-new feature only just released in summer 2024. With these digital flash cards, you can more easily swipe through quiz questions, even if you’re on the go.

And for those of you not vigorously swiping through flash cards, you might also skim the cram sheet to cement important concepts before taking the test. With this, key takeaways from each lesson sit in one place.

Future-proofed learning

Unlike some competitors that limit access after completing the course, DPGS grants lifetime access to its materials. This ensures you can revisit information for future reference, keeping your knowledge current as regulations evolve or you delve deeper into specific drone applications. Its also critical in helping refresh your knowledge, supplementing the FAA’s Remote Pilot recurrent online training.

Confidence-boosting (and money-back!) guarantee

DPGS offers a pass-or-your-money-back guarantee. This financial safety net allows you to focus on studying with peace of mind, knowing that if you don’t pass the exam on the first try, you’ll receive a full refund.

Accessible language offerings

The site is inclusive of language, with both closed captioning in English, as well as Spanish subtitles. Whether you’re the type of person who learns best by listening, reading, or actually doing it yourself, this course has a way to absorb the information that works for you.

Here’s how the Spanish subtitles look:

Unlimited support

And if you still need help after all of that, Drone Pilot Ground School promises one on one support. In fact, they say the number of support requests you can make is unlimited. And, you can request support through all sorts of mediums, including email, phone or voice message.

Related read: Part 107 test: everything you need to know (except the answers)

Drone Pilot School review: how much does it cost?

There are a few different packages of programming, tailored to fit various price points. They are:

Though, you can use my promo code DRONEGIRL50 to get $50 off!

Who is Drone Pilot School best for?

Given their range of offerings, Drone Pilot Ground School caters to a surprisingly broad set of the population. Here are some specific types of people who would benefit most:

People who need structured learning

Though it won’t be quite as structured as an in-person class, in-person courses may not be practical based on your location, your ability to carve out time to get there, or based on cost (they tend to be far more expensive than online course). DPGS meticulously organizes the learning materials, creating a clear roadmap for mastering all the knowledge areas covered in the Part 107 exam. This structured approach is particularly beneficial for beginners who might feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of information.

People who want to learn at any time

Then again, if you prefer a haphazard, learn-when-you-can style, then the no expiration date coupled with tools like flashcards to swipe on the go also make this course for you.

In fact, with its summer 2024 update, Drone Pilot Ground School rolled out a feature called “personalized study plans.” With it, you can create a track allowing you to complete the course in, say, one week. Or, maybe you opt for a timeline that allows you to spread it out over one month. In short, pace your training to your ideal completion time.

Pilots seeking that confidence boost of actual practice

DPGS understands the power of practice. The course includes a multitude of practice tests that mimic the actual FAA exam format. By taking these practice tests, you’ll identify your knowledge gaps, refine your test-taking strategies, and build the confidence needed to excel on the real exam.

Spanish speakers

The Spanish subtitles unlock knowledge of drones for a whole new set of the population. Although you must take the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Exam in English, being able to study in Spanish is critical for some native Spanish speakers to better learn the information to pass.

Professionals seeking certifications

Drone Pilot Ground School can’t issue you a Part 107 certificate. Alas, you’ll need to pass the FAA’s test to do that. (More information on how and where to take the Part 107 test here.) That said, Drone Pilot Ground School can offer you a completion certificate for continuing education purposes. You’ll have to put in a specific support request to get this. But if you do, it’s valued at 20 hours of online learning.

People who need a payment plan

Another unique feature worth pointing out in this Drone Pilot Ground School review? They offer flexible payment plans. If you opt in, you can pay via Affirm, Afterpay, or Klarna. These are all interest-free payments that generally only run soft credit checks.

This can often be a smarter financial move than charging it to, say, a credit card that you’re otherwise unable to pay off in full. That’s because credit cards generally hit you with high interest fees.

Oh, and speaking of money, if you don’t pass the FAA exam, then Drone Pilot Ground School will refund you. Plus, they’ll cover your test center fee, which is typically $175. For what it’s worth, a Drone Pilot Ground School told The Drone Girl that this rarely happens.

The company also added that it has a 99% pass rate for students on their first attempt.

How Drone Pilot Ground School compares to other Part 107 trainings

While DPGS offers a compelling package, explore other drone ground school options before making your decision. After all, while it’s definitely one of the best Part 107 online course providers out there, it’s also among the most expensive. And if price factors into your decision, then it might not be the best after all.

And besides price, know that DPGS primarily focuses on video instruction. If you learn best through interactive elements like live webinars, group discussions, or in-person classes, explore options that cater to these learning styles.

Here’s how DPGS compares to some of the other, most popular Part 107 courses:

Drone Pilot Ground School review: the company’s charitable contributions

Oh, and then there’s one more thing to love about Drone Pilot Ground School: a high degree of giving back. The company donates 1% of its sales to charitable organizations. Those groups vary based on time of year but have included groups such as Freedom Service Dogs of America, Kids in Need Foundation, and National Forest Foundation.

Besides that, it also offers a drone scholarship for high school students. With it, high school students students granted the scholarship receive free access to the course. UAV Coach also reimburses the $175 FAA exam fee.

There’s also a separate Drone Technology College Scholarship open to students who are pursuing undergraduate degrees and who demonstrate an interest in drones. That scholarship entails a one-time, $1,000 cash award.

The final descent: is Drone Pilot Ground School your perfect runway into a drone pilot’s license?

If you’re a beginner seeking a well-structured, informative online course with high-quality video lectures and a robust suite of practice tests, then Drone Pilot Ground School is a top contender. The lifetime access and money-back guarantee add significant value to the package. However, if you’re a budget-conscious learner or prefer a more interactive learning environment, consider researching alternative drone ground schools to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Ultimately, Drone Pilot Ground School provides a solid foundation for aspiring drone pilots to confidently take on the Part 107 exam and embark on a rewarding career in the exciting world of aerial operations.

Convinced by this Drone Pilot Ground School review? Then sign up here to save $50 using promo code DRONEGIRL50.

The post Drone Pilot Ground School review: Part 107 course gets complete overhaul in 2024 update appeared first on The Drone Girl.

DJI has entered the portable power station arena with two incredibly compelling options that are good enough to already make our guide to the best portable power stations for drone pilots. The company known for making drones in April 2024 dropped two products that are similar to each other — but that have appeal for not just drone pilots but a far broader population. Those are the DJI Power 1000 and DJI Power 500. But between the DJI Power 1000 vs Power 500, which is better for you?

In short, the DJI Power 1000 is about twice as powerful as the DJI Power 500. It’s also twice the cost. For some users, that doubling of power is critical. But for others, you might end up paying twice as much for power storage that you might ever tap into.

If money is absolutely no object, then sure, you might want the DJI Power 1000. But even that’s not always the case. Given its higher-power storage, it’s also about 12 pounds heavier. It comes in at 28.6 pounds versus just 16.06 pounds for the DJI Power 500. Certainly pilots might prefer the DJI Power 500. This guide will help you compare these new DJI stations and decide which best suits your aerial adventures.

• Purchase the DJI Power 1000 now from B&H Photo.
• Purchase the DJI Power 1000 now from Amazon.
• Purchase the DJI Power 500 now from Amazon.

So what, exactly are portable power stations for? Consider them the future that’s progressed beyond generators or car chargers. Car chargers just aren’t that powerful, meaning you won’t be able to charge power-sucking products. Or if you can, it’ll be a slow process.

On the other hand, generators can be powerful. But they’re generally massive, they emit gross fumes, and they can be noisy.

Consider portable power stations like the DJI Power 1000 or DJI Power 500 to offer the best of both worlds. Even the larger of the two, the Power 1000, weighs less than 30 pounds. They recharge devices within roughly an hour. And, they’re super quiet. To prove it, the DJI Power 1000 generates just 23 dB, for example. That’s quieter than most household refrigerators.

Power stations like these certainly benefit drone pilots who need to recharge out in the field, but they’re also super useful to campers, who want to keep phones and lights recharged without the blaring noise of a generator disrupting their peace out in nature. They can also have practical function at home — serving as backup power in the case of a power outage.

So with that, here’s a guide to some of the best portable power station options from DJI:

DJI Power 1000 vs Power 500, side-by-side

And let’s say you’re curious about number of times each portable power charger can recharge specific items. Here’s a table comparing recharge times on common products. Of course, if you might recharge, say, a mobile phone twice, a laptop once and a drone 3 times, you’d need to consider some combination of these charging figures:

Number of charges that common tech products can be recharged, per power station

Now what about recharging the DJI Power stations themselves? Both devices can recharge fully within 70 minutes. If you don’t have that much time, you can at least get to an 80% charge within 50 minutes.

Who the DJI Power 1000 is best for

A true powerhouse, the Power 1000 boasts a massive 1000Wh capacity. This translates to multiple drone battery recharges, making it ideal for extended trips or supporting multiple drones on a professional shoot. It’s also expected to offer fast-charging capabilities, getting you back in the air quickly.

The drawback? It’s fairly heavy at more than 28 pounds. You don’t want to lug this around when you’re out hiking. Given that, this isn’t ideal for backpacking or situations where portability is a major concern.

• Purchase the DJI Power 1000 now from B&H Photo.
• Purchase the DJI Power 1000 now from Amazon.

Who the DJI Power 500 is best for

With a 500Wh capacity, the Power 500 is more compact and portable than its bigger brother. While not quite a powerhouse, it still offers enough juice for several drone battery charges, making it perfect for shorter outings or weekend adventures. It prioritizes fast charging as well.

At just 16 pounds, I’m not calling it light. But, it’s among the lightest portable power stations you’ll find. Consider it a great choice for drone pilots who prioritize easy carrying and want a station that fits comfortably in a backpack.

• Purchase the DJI Power 500 now from Amazon.

Types of supported ports

Using a standard power socket, the Power 1000 supports both 1200W Fast Recharge Mode and 600W Standard Recharge Mode. Meanwhile, the Power 500 supports both 540W Fast Recharge Mode and 270W Standard Recharge Mode.

It’s a similar story with USB-C, where the Power 500 is less powerful versus the Power 1000. Though both have two USB-C output ports, the Power 1000 is 140W with a total power output of up to 280W. The Power 500 is just 100W with a total input power of 200W.

What about solar power?

Here’s where the two are practically the same. Both products can connect to solar panels through either the DJI Power Solar Panel Adapter Module (MPPT) or the DJI Power Car Power Outlet to SDC Power Cable.

DJI Power 1000 vs Power 500: how to decide

With their impressive capacities and focus on fast charging, these stations are sure to be game-changers for drone pilots. So which should you choose? The ideal DJI Power Station for you depends on your drone and overall needs. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• Choose the DJI Power 1000 if: You need maximum capacity for extended trips, multiple drone batteries, or professional shoots. Fast charging and the ability to power multiple devices are also priorities. Portability might be a secondary concern.
• Choose the DJI Power 500 if: You prioritize portability and a lighter weight for backpacking or frequent travel. The Power 500 still offers enough power for several drone charges and multiple device charging, making it perfect for shorter adventures. Fast charging is another benefit.

No matter which DJI Power Station you choose, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your drone, and your entire exploration kit (including laptops, lights and phones), powered for unforgettable adventures.

• Purchase the DJI Power 1000 now from B&H Photo.
• Purchase the DJI Power 1000 now from Amazon.
• Purchase the DJI Power 500 now from Amazon.

The post DJI Power 1000 vs Power 500: which is better for the price difference? appeared first on The Drone Girl.

If you’re searching for a beginner drone under $500, both the DJI Mini 4K and HoverAir X1 offer appealing options. 

These drones share a similar price point and ease of use, but their features set them apart. Both drones weigh under 250 grams, boast a relatively low price point, and are easy-to-fly options. However, the similarities end there; while the HoverAir X1 is more compact, the DJI Mini 4K outshines it in almost every other aspect.

Let’s dive into a comparison to help you choose the ideal beginner drone for your needs.

DJI Mini 4K vs. HoverAir X1: a comparison of price and specs

The HoverAir X1, crafted by the Chinese drone manufacturer ZeroZero Robotics, retails at $439. How does it fare against its DJI counterpart, the DJI Mini 4K?

The DJI Mini 4K boasts a lower price tag, currently available on Amazon $299, making it 32% cheaper. Additionally, it offers more impressive flight time and camera specifications.

HoverAir X1: lightweight and portable

The HoverAir X1 shines in terms of weight, size, and its ability to record sound. Its lighter takeoff weight and compact dimensions make it an excellent on-the-go drone. In fact, it’s about half the size of the DJI Mini 4K in terms of both folded dimensions and takeoff weight.

I’ve personally found it convenient to carry around, easily fitting into pockets or bags. The propeller cage and the absence of a camera gimbal contribute to its stress-free portability. 

Additionally, flying directly through a phone app eliminates the need for extra equipment. Or it even has the option to fly at set fly patterns straight from the drone.

And sure, flying directly through a phone app (or the drone itself) has its own cons (more on that later), but not needing a separate controller is certainly a pro for drone pilots who like to pack light.

Unlike most drones on the market, the HoverAir x1 has the ability to record sound. While the sound quality is commendable, the synchronization between video and audio can be inconsistent.

DJI Mini 4K: superior camera and flight performance

The DJI Mini 4K surpasses the HoverAir X1 in camera quality, flight time, and overall performance.

Its ability to capture 4K video with a 3-axis motorized gimbal ensures stable footage even in turbulent conditions. With nearly triple the flight time and an unparalleled flight distance, it offers extended aerial exploration opportunities. 

Moreover, it comes at a lower price point than the HoverAir X1. The difference is fairly comparable too, with the $299 Mini 4K costing about 30% less than the HoverAir X1.

Which is better: DJI Mini 4K or HoverAir X1?

Given its superior specifications and affordability, the DJI Mini 4K is as the clear choice for beginners seeking an inexpensive yet feature-rich drone.

However, the HoverAir X1 still has some good things going for it.

For starters, setting up the HoverAir X1 compared to the DJI Mini 4K feels less intimidating. The HoverAir X1 setup is done entirely through the phone app, making it fairly intuitive for anyone who has connected their phone to a Bluetooth speaker.

The DJI Mini 4K has a slightly steeper learning curve. If you’re familiar with DJI drones, setup will be quick and easy. However, if you are new to the drone world, you’ll need to spend time learning some DJI and drone-specific technology and terminology. 

Flying through a phone app, as with the HoverAir X1, certainly has its downsides. The HoverAir X1 mostly operates on flight modes (bird’s eye view, hover, zoom out, etc.). Whether flying on a set flight path or through free flight on the phone app, you will have significantly less control and precision compared to the DJI Mini 4K.

Both the Mini 4K and the HoverAir X1 lack obstacle-avoidance sensors, so pilots need to be extra aware of their surroundings to avoid collisions. If you are looking for a drone with more safety features, consider the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

For those focused on still photography, there is not much noticeable quality difference between the two. However, the DJI Mini 4K offers far superior video quality, which is a major draw for drone enthusiasts who want to capture amazing video footage.

While the HoverAir X1 may appeal to those prioritizing portability and sound recording, the DJI Mini 4K’s overall performance sets it apart. Then again, if you’re looking for a flying camera more so than a drone, the HoverAir X1 might be the right choice for you.

• Purchase the HoverAir x1 for $439
• Purchase the DJI Mini 4k on Amazon for $299

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