It s a no-brainer drones are a game changer. Talk about delivering packages, capturing aerial footage, or aiding in military missions. Besides, people are continually getting these Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for recreational and commercial purposes. In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported thatover 500,000 dronesare registered for recreation in the US. Even so, you might want to avoid a new drone. Some of their shortcomings outweigh their benefits. For instance, there is a case where an American-MQ-9 Reaper drone and the SU-27 Russian fighter bombercollided, leading the jet to crash in the Black Sea.
Let s find out other reasons why you should skip buying a new drone.
The Price Tag
You d have to pay $300 to $500 for a good-entry drone like the Holy Stone HS710 Drones or spend $1,000 for a professional drone with more advanced features like tilt and speed sensors. In addition to the initial cost, they need constant software, hardware, andtechnologymaintenance. Parts such as batteries and propellers need regular care and maintenance. Propellers are prone to crashing into obstacles due to the high speed they spin, forcing you to replace them often.
You ll need to buy extra batteries since even high-quality batteries last the drone in the air for at most 20 minutes. Therefore, it is inconvenient if you plan to use the drone for longer than that and have only one pair.
Additionally, you will dig deeper into your pockets to buy extra propellers and a carrying case and register your drone if it exceeds 250g. Furthermore, thebatterieshave an average of about 100 to 200 charges before you replace them. Considering all these factors, buying a drone can be pricey, especially if you re on a budget.
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06/16/2023 12:51 pm GMT
Numerous Rules to Operate Drones
As the use of drones continues to expand, so do their rules and regulations. These rules range from no flying zones, a maximum flying height of 400 feet, no flying within eight kilometers of an airport, and always maintaining a visual line of sight with your drone. For instance, in Texas, drone use in national parks isillegal. Therefore, buying a drone isn t a good idea if you find rules boring.
It s worth noting there are some ambiguities in these rules set by the FAA and those by the local and state laws. You may violate rules you didn t know you ought to have followed.
Can be Hazardous
Sure, drones are fun and cool to fly, but there is a dark side to drone batteries, though. Batteries risk exploding if overcharged, discharged, used beyond the expiration date, or used when they are damaged. You d be walking on eggshells when using the drones batteries. With the slightest mistake, your flying excitement can go horribly wrong.
Travel Complications
Drones are the perfect travel companions if you want to capture vacation pics that stand out. However, traveling with your drone is easier said than done. First, some are heavy, so you will need somebody to help you carry it around. In addition to the drone weight, you need to account for the weight of accessories like extra propellers, anti-collision lights, and batteries. Speaking of batteries, remember that some airlines also don t allow Lipo batteries that exceed specific ratings.
Moreover, dronesaren t allowedin some countries. For instance, you can t bring drones to countries like Dubai, Mexico, Morocco, or Senegal as they are completely banned. If you are lucky to be traveling to a country where they haven t banned the use of drones, you will possibly find strict restrictions and flying regulations. So, traveling with a drone is so stressful that doing away with them is easier.
Weather Sensitivity
Drones are weather-sensitive. On the one hand, when it s hot, the batteries get hot and may explode. Conversely, rain, thick fog, snow, and high humidity may cause shorter flight times for drone batteries. Again, flying your drone in the heavy wind will cause balance problems, putting it at risk of hitting obstacles.
Permits and Licences
If you re a drone enthusiast, you must learn how to fly a drone safely. You ll learn the drone anatomy, how it works, and the weather to avoid. The Federal Aviation Administration also requires you to obtain aRemote Pilot Certificate, the license or permit for flying a drone. Therefore, if you are not ready to spend time and money to train and get the permit, then avoid buying a drone.
Software Malfunction
Like other tech gadgets, drones are prone tosoftwarebugs. If the bugs are not identified in time, drones can cause injuries and property damage. So, if you re not ready for the costs of regular testing, drones might not be ideal for you.
Bad Reputation
In their early days, the military used drones to get the upper hand in attacks. Although other professionals have embraced drones, the idea of drones as a tool of war is still stuck in some people s minds.
Also, drones are used for spying. Your neighbors and friends might feel you re invading their privacy when you fly a drone over their homes. So, you might want to keep off buying a drone to maintain a good rapport with them.
Not Ideal for Photography Newbies
Sure, a drone is a perfect tool for photography to capture stunning aerial shots. Even then, buying a drone isn t the best idea if you are new tophotography. For starters, you have to go to flying classes. If you combine it with learning photography, one area will most likely fail. Therefore, learn photography skills using a camera and later transition to a drone.
Pictures taken with a drone will need editing. Without upping all these skills, you might toss the drone in your garage, among other clutter you don t use.
The 2 Alternatives to a New Drone
Here are some excellent alternatives to consider if you decide to avoid a new drone
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06/16/2023 12:32 pm GMT
Create professional quality photos with Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera.
The camera takes high-quality images using its large 24.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and has a viewing coverage of about 95%. It is reasonably priced at about $399 and gives you control while capturing images. The camera is ideal for both newbies and experts in photography.
Pros
Cons
Built-in wireless connectivity
No optical zoom
Takes high-quality images as it has a large 24.1 megapixels CMOS sensor
Can only shoot three frames when in continuous shooting mode
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06/16/2023 12:51 pm GMT
Designed to capture footage on land, you can take shots of stunning photos withWiral Lite Motorized Cable Camera. You can turn the camera into a cable cam to capture the best shots while in motion.
While small and lightweight, it holds a camera or a pro lens sturdily. Setting it up is easy; it takes as little as 3 minutes. You ll love that no permit or training is required to use thecamera.
The Wiral Lite app plays a role in adjusting the speed while on the run. Unfortunately, it is fragile and can only support one camera at a time.
Pros
Cons
Setting it up takes about 3 minutes
The cable can only support one camera
No permit for operation is required
Can be a bit fragile
Can go up even in an inclined path
Has an extended battery charger for easy charging
Camera payload is 3.3 pounds (1.5kg)
Conclusion
There are several drawbacks to a drone, and you should probably reconsider buying one. Even so, if your project entirely relies on a drone, it pays to invest in one to capture detailed aerial photos and videos. However, if you can t overlook these shortcomings, check our list of the best alternatives to a drone.
