The Top Professional Drones for Serious Commercial UAV Pilots

The Mavic 3 CINE is DJI’s latest creation that pushes the boundaries of what a foldable drone can achieve. It builds on everything that made the Mavic 2 Pro successful, but the CINE version is unlike any Mavic drone before it. The dual-camera system features a Hasselblad 4/3” sensor and a ½” Tele camera sensor that has 28x hybrid zoom.

With up to 46 minutes of flight time, you will not have to worry about having enough battery life to get that picture-perfect shot. Speaking of its imagery capabilities, The Hasselblad sensor provides a 12.8-stop dynamic range that retains more details in highlights and shadows, upgrading your work to a professional level. Drone pilots will also enjoy the built-in Apple ProRes 422 HQ encoding and 1 TB SSD for a super smooth professional workflow.

The Mavic 3 CINE premium combo includes:

• DJI RC Pro Controller
• DJI RC Pro Control Sticks (pair) ×1
• 3 DJI Mavic 3 Intelligent Flight Battery
• DJI Mavic 3 Low-Noise Propellers (pair)
• DJI Mavic 3 Battery Charging Hub DJI 65W Portable Charger
• DJI Mavic 3 Storage Cover
• DJI Mavic 3 ND Filters Set (ND4/8/16/32)
• DJI Mavic 3 ND Filters Set (ND64/128/256/512)
• DJI Convertible Carrying Bag
• DJI 10Gbps Lightspeed Data Cable
• Type-C Cable

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 4/3 CMOS, 20 MP, JPEG/DNG
• Video Resolution: 5.1K/50fps, 4K/120fps
• Max Flight Time: 46-minutes
• Max Speed: 42 mph (67 kph) in S-mode
• Notable Attributes: O3+ allows for a 9.3-mile transmission range, an Advanced RTH system, 84° FOV, auxiliary bottom light, omnidirectional binocular vision system, DJI AirSense.

See our review of the Mavic 3 CINE here.

The DJI Phantom 4 RTK is another visionary drone from DJI, with an RTK module that is designed for real-time aerial mapping. It may look familiar and it should because it utilizes the iconic Phantom platform. It features a 1-inch, 20-megapixel CMOS sensor with a mechanical shutter which is an essential component to capture high-quality image data.

A unique feature with the DJI Phantom 4 RTK is the remote controller with a built-in screen that is loaded with the new DJI GS RTK app. This allows the drone to be controlled through intelligent flight planning modes which include 2D and 3D Photogrammetry, Waypoint Flight, Terrain Awareness, Block Segmentation, and various other flight modes that are ideal for aerial mapping.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 20 megapixels
• Video Resolution: H.264 4K at 60 fps or H.265 4K at 30 fps, both record in a 100 Mbps bitrate
• Max Flight Time: 30-minutes
• Max Speed: 31 mph (50 kph) in P-Mode or 36 mph (58 kph) in A-Mode
• Notable Attributes: RTK module, obstacle sensing, intelligent flight modes, mechanical shutter

See our review of the DJI Phantom 4 RTK here.

The DJI Inspire 2 is a top-of-the-line drone that has become a favorite among aerial cinematographers who are looking for Hollywood camera quality in a relatively small package. Its sleek design, intelligent sensors, and premium materials make this a great platform for cinematography. Its solid construction features a magnesium-aluminum composite shell and carbon fiber arms that lift to provide an unparalleled 360° view.

The Inspire 2 was built with filmmakers in mind, but it’s advanced camera sensors and Cinecore 2.0 image processing system makes it ideal for anyone who wants that perfect cinematic shot. The 2-axis FPV camera allows drone pilots to see what’s ahead while simultaneously recording with the main camera in the opposite direction. Not only is it capable of running two cameras, but it also has a dual IMU’s, Barometers, and a dual self-heating battery system. There are simply too many features to list them all, but this drone will handle anything thrown its way.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 20 – 24 megapixels*
• Video Resolution: H.264/H.265 100 Mbps bitrate, 4K/60 FPS, 5.2K/30 FPS, 6K/30 FPS**
• Max Flight Time: 23-27 minutes***
• Max Speed: 58 mph (94 kph)
• Notable Attributes: Interchangeable camera gimbals, live streaming, intelligent flight modes, FPV camera, heated dual battery system, Apple ProRes, Cinema DNG

* Still image resolution varies based on what camera gimbal is equipped.
** Video resolution varies based on what camera gimbal/image processing system is equipped.
*** Max flight time varies based on what camera gimbal is equipped.

Accessories

These extra parts are available and many more are available from DJI.

• DJI CINESSD
• Zenmuse X5S
• Zenmuse X7
• Zenmuse X7 DL/DL-S Lens Set
• Inspire 2 Activation Key of RAW & Apple ProRes
• CrystalSky Display

The FreeFly Alta X drone is a quad-rotor configuration designed for professional and industrial partners. It is truly an engineering marvel with the ability to carry up to a 35-pound payload. Foldable carbon fiber propeller arms, propellers, and Freefly’s quick-release gimbal system ensure simple set-up and increased portability.

Flying a large drone does not need to be complicated, fly with ease with Freefly’s PX4 flight controller. No matter how you use the Alta X, the drone is engineered for easy transport and quick deployment. The propellers and arms fold to cut its physical size by half, and with just a push of your finger, you can expand the drone to full size. When expanded, the linkages stiffen the booms to help ensure accurate, low-vibration flight.

Key Specs/Features

• Quick release mounting system on top or bottom of aircraft.
• Adjustable Vibration Isolation included.
• Long Range Data link.
• Extensive accessory ecosystem
• 33 Inch blades with ActiveBlade technology
• Flies on just 2 batteries.
• 50 Minute flight time with no payload, 22 minute flight with 20lb payload.
• Folds to half its size with one finger folding.

Flyability changed the way drones can be used with the original Elios that was designed for indoor inspections. With the Flyabilty Elios 2, the company has built upon that success and created their most advanced drone to date. Its unique configuration features a spherical cage that encases the entire payload. Its overall dimensions are just under 40 cm (15.7 inches), it will fit into just about any space. The robust transmission system works beyond line of sight, which means concrete walls, steel structures, and other obstacles will not interfere with the inspection.

During certain inspections, such as those that take place in tight spaces like boiler rooms or nuclear reactors, collisions are unavoidable. These are also spaces where in-person inspections can be extremely dangerous. The Elios 2 was created to make these types of inspections safer for people, by removing the need for a person to physically review a tight, dangerous space. A dual-sensor consisting of a thermal and 4K camera can identify even the smallest cracks. The dustproof 10K lumen lighting system is the most powerful lighting system ever used on a commercial drone. Using the oblique lighting technique allows inspectors to identify textures and find even the smallest discrepancies.

Key Specs/Features

• Camera Resolution: 12 megapixels
• Dual thermal and 4K camera system
• Collision tolerant—the Elios can withstand collisions and continue flying (this is what it’s known for!)
• Cutting edge wireless communication with live video feedback
• 10k Lumen dustproof lighting system with oblique lighting
• GPS-Free stabilization with Distance-Lock for precision inspection
• Full HD live streaming
• Max Flight Time: Up to 10 minutes
• Max speed: Up to 6.5 m/s (14.5 mph)
• Notable Attributes: Beyond line of sight, capabilities can be extended via range extender

Accessories

• Flyability Inspector
• Range Extender

The DJI Agras MG-1 drone is an octocopter configuration that is designed for precision agriculture spraying of pesticides and fertilizers. Its powerful propulsion system makes the Agras 40-60 times faster than manual spraying and it has a liquid holding tank capacity of 10 kg (2.6 gallons). Spraying is controlled through the intelligent spraying system that adjusts the amount of liquid dispensed based on the speed of the aircraft to ensure an even application every time.

With a dedicated remote controller with a display panel and the Lightbridge 2 transmission system; critical information such as spraying speed, altitude, flying speed, battery level, and tank status are easily accessible. The remote controller and the aircraft are both water and dust-resistant and are ready to tackle any job. The carbon-fiber airframe and retractable control arms make it easy to transport. Intelligent memory software records coordinates and mission data throughout the mission. Battery running low or out of spray? Not a problem for the Agras, the aircraft will resume right where it left off.

Key Specs/Features

• 10 kg (2.6 gallons) payload
• Sprays 7-10 acres per hour
• Integrated centrifugal cooling system increase reliability and longevity
• Interchangeable spray nozzles
• Terrain Follow: Microwave radar scans the terrain below to maintain stable height above plants regardless of elevation changes
• Max Flight Time: Up to 24 min*
• Max Speed: 22 m/s (49 mph)
• Notable Attributes: Interchangeable spray nozzles; Terrain Follow: Microwave radar scans the terrain below to maintain stable height above plants regardless of elevation changes

*Flight times vary on the payload weight.

The senseFly eBeeX is a fixed-wing drone that is fully autonomous and is designed to capture high-resolution aerial images for mapping and 3D modeling. No piloting skills are needed for this drone, simply throw the drone and it will follow a pre-planned flight plan. Fixed-wing aircraft are ideal for large mapping jobs due to the efficient aerodynamic properties of this configuration. The eBee can cover 1200 acres within one planned flight, making it a very efficient option for aerial mapping.

It only weighs 1.7 lbs and can be equipped with seven interchangeable cameras and includes the senseFly eMotion software. Various optional accessories make the drone configurable for just about any mapping mission. The eMotion software is loaded with advanced flight control features and mapping parameters but is designed with a user-friendly interface that is great for beginners.

Key Specs/Features

• Interchangeable camera sensors
• Also works with Pix4Dmapper and Pix4Dbim
• Multiple file outputs
• Max Flight Speed: 68 mph (109 kph)
• Max Flight Time: 90-minutes
• Includes everything needed to start mapping today
• Notable Attributes: Transform aerial photos into accurate orthomosaics (maps) and 3D models

See a comparison of other senseFly eBee drones here.

DJI has taken its popular Mavic series and transformed it into an industrial powerhouse. The DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced combines the best of both worlds with a dual thermal and 4K camera sensor. The live split-screen functionality allows the operator to see both the thermal and 4K video feeds at the same time. Temperatures are displayed on the screen with one single tap anywhere on the screen. Hot spots are automatically detected so firefighters can determine where to focus or a search & rescue team to locate a missing person.

The Mavics small size not only makes it easier to operate but also a more practical option for organizations of all sizes. The platform is easily configurable to fit various applications with the available M2E Spotlight, M2E Speaker, M2E RTK Module, and the M2E Beacon. Whether you are flying in low light conditions, need to communicate to a ground team, or simply need to see your aircraft at night from a distance; these add-ons will get the job done. DJI is always at the forefront of innovation and has included their newest technology called AirSense into their enterprise platforms. AirSense acts as a receiver to receive ADS-B Out signals from manned aircraft to alert the drone operator of any aircraft within the immediate area.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 48 megapixels
• Video Resolution: 4K Ultra HD 24/25/30 fps
• Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
• Integrated Radiometric FLIR Thermal Sensor
• Max Flight Time: 31-minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 44 mph (72 kph)
• Notable Attributes: Adjustable emissive and reflective parameters, modular accessories, 10 km transmission, DJI AirSense, 32x digital zoom, Centimeter-level Positioning with RTK, heated batteries.

Accessories

Mavic Enterprise modular accessories are included with the drone (Excluding RTK Module).

The DJI Matrice 300 RTK is DJI’s newest and most capable enterprise drone that can be configured for a multitude of applications. The M300 is designed to safely operate in the most challenging circumstances. Some of its safety features include an anti-collision beacon, object detection up to 98 feet away, and AirSense, which is an ADS-B receiver that picks up signals from manned aircraft and alerts the drone pilot of the location of the aircraft. It’s compatible with the two new Zenmuse H20 cameras and various other sensors. The H20 series have optical and thermal sensors, making it a compelling choice for a variety of commercial applications.

The M300 RTK can carry up to six pounds and up to three different payloads at the same time. Need to change a payload or battery? Not a problem, with Hot-Swappable Batteries, the battery can be changed while still providing power without shutting down the drone. Automate routine inspections and capture consistent results every time. There are two many advanced features to list, but here are a few: AI Spot Check, Live Mission Recording, Pinpoint, and Dual Control.

To see all of the features, check out our in-depth analysis of the DJI Matrice 300 RTK here.

Key Specs/Features

• Compatible with various Zenmuse sensors and third-party sensors
• Max Flight Speed: 51 mph (82 kph)
• Max Flight Time: Up to 55-minutes
• IP45 weather rating
• Anti-Collision Beacon
• Hot-Swappable Battery
• 6 Directional Sensing & Positioning
• Notable Features: AirSense ADS-B Receiver, self-heating battery, UAV health management system, primary flight display.

Accessories

• DJI D-RTK Mobile Station

The DJI P4 Multispectral packs advanced agricultural sensing technology into the iconic Phantom series platform. Its relatively small footprint makes it one of the most robust agriculture drones for its size currently on the market. The P4 simplifies the process of collecting data and provides a comprehensive view of crop health. The accuracy of the data is greatly improved with the integrated Spectral Sunlight Sensor that captures solar irradiance to maximize data accuracies throughout different times of the day. With TimeSync, all six cameras will provide accurate measurements down to the centimeter-level.

Crop health and areas of concern can quickly be targeted with the ability to view the crops through RGB camera feed and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) feed simultaneously. The RTK modules’ accuracy can be enhanced with the available DJI D-RTK 2 Mobile Station. Plan flights, capture data, analyze data and act on that data with this innovative all-in-one system.

Key Specs/Features

• Multispectral Imaging System
• Integrated RTK Module
• Side-by-Side RGB/NDVI view
• Image Resolution: 2.12 megapixels per sensor
• Global shutter with 3-axis gimbal stabilization
• Max Flight Time: 27-minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 36 mph (58 kph) in (A-mode)
• Notable Features: Spectral Sunlight Sensor, 1 visible camera with 5 cameras covering Blue, Green, Red, Red Edge, and Near-Infrared bands

Accessories

• DJI D-RTK Mobile Station

The DJI Phantom series has produced some of the most capable and recognizable drones on the market. The original Phantom 1 was a revolutionary aircraft that put DJI and prosumer drones on the map. The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 has collectively built on the series success and continues to be used for photography, filmmaking, inspections, and various other applications.

It features a professional-grade 1-inch CMOS sensor that can record in 4K video resolution and 20 megapixel still photos. Its mechanical shutter makes this model a rarity and highly sought after for aerial inspections and mapping. Advanced omnidirectional obstacle sensing makes it even easier to capture that picture-perfect shot, without compromising the safety of the operation.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 20 megapixels
• Video Resolution: 4K at 24-60 fps
• Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
• Max Flight Time: 30-minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 45 mph (72 kph)
• Notable Attributes: Mechanical shutter, OcuSync 2.0, intelligent flight modes, available with Intuitive Remote Controller (built-in screen)

Two Buying Options

→ Standard RC
→ RC with Screen

Accessories

→ Phantom 4 Series Intelligent Flight Battery
→ Phantom Battery Hub Battery

Looking for Hollywood-style shots without complex equipment and high operating costs? Well, then the Skydio 2 +  is a drone that you should seriously consider. With an advanced 45-megapixel obstacle avoidance camera system, it’s designed to take the heavy workload off the pilot. Intelligent flight modes allow it to zip through even the most complex terrain without losing sight of the subject. The new KeyFrame mode allows drone pilots to create impossible camera motion that’s smooth, precise, and repeatable.

Featuring a 1/2.3” CMOS sensor, the Skydio 2 + records stunning 4K HDR footage at 60 fps and captures 12-megapixel stills. With autonomous speeds up to 36 mph, it captures dynamic cinematic shots with ease. Fly from the app, hand-held Beacon remote, or with a controller for even more precision. Its portable design makes it a compelling option for travel bloggers, documentary compilers, and commercial drone pilots in any industry.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 12 megapixels
• Video Resolution: 4K HDR at 60 fps
• Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
• Max Flight Time: 23-minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 36 mph (57 kph)
• Notable Attributes: 3 km transmission range, NVIDIA processor, intelligent flight modes, three control options

Accessories

→ Skydio 2 Controller
→ Skydio 2 Battery

With a price point starting at $2500, the newly released Autel Evo II Series is a serious contender in the increasingly competitive foldable drone segment. The Autel Evo II Drones pack some serious hardware under their bright orange shells. With 40-minutes of flight time, it also has the longest flight time of any prosumer drone offered on the market.

A unique feature with the EVO II  is the ability to change out the gimbal payload. It can be equipped with an 8K sensor, 6K Pro Sensor, or a Dual sensor that combines an 8K sensor with a thermal sensor. The ability to alternate sensors is unheard of in the consumer/prosumer drone market. With 12 advanced omnidirectional computer vision sensors, the drone can easily navigate the most challenging environments while focusing on the task.

Key Specs/Features

• Still Image Resolution: 48 megapixels*
• Video Resolution: Up to 8K*
• Max Flight Time: 40-minutes
• Max Flight Speed: 45 mph (72 kph)
• Notable Attributes: Interchangeable gimbals, thermal sensor option, 5.5-mile transmission range (9 km), HDR video, built-in landing lights, intelligent flight modes.

*Still image and video resolution vary depending on which gimbal is equipped. 

Skydio changed how a drone could be flown when they released their advanced autonomous drone, the Skydio 2. Now the company is breaking into the commercial market with the new Skydio X2. The industrial design of the X2 makes this drone an excellent choice for government agencies, the military, and a host of other applications. Its foldable design is a first for the company, which allows this drone to be packed up and taken anywhere you desire.

The Skydio X2 can turn anyone into a seasoned drone pilot with the use of Skydio artificial intelligence. Equipped with the advanced FLIR Boson sensor and 360 Superzoom allows you to get closer, fly further, and see even during the darkest nights. In addition to the sensors, the X2 also features visible/infrared illuminators, precision GPS, and inertial navigation for night operations. 6-miles of range and 35 minutes of flight time ensures that the Skydio X2 will always deliver.

Key Specs/Features

• Color Camera: 4K 60 fps with 16x optical zoom
• Thermal Camera: Flir Boson 320×256
• 360 Superzoom with 100x optical zoom)
• Max Flight Speed: Unknown
• Max Flight Time: 35-minutes
• Notable Features: Enterprise controller, foldable design, 6-mile range, visible/IR illuminators.