Drone Test & Comparison – the 5 Best Drones of 2025
Drones are no longer just toys – they enable breathtaking aerial shots, are perfect companions for outdoor adventures, and are increasingly being used professionally. In our 2025 drone comparison, we present five recommended models. The evaluation criteria were camera quality, flight time, ease of use, additional functions, and price-performance ratio.
#1
1. Test Winner: DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo
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Pros
- Dual-camera system with wide angle & 3x telephoto – 4K/100fps video
- Up to 46 minutes of flight time – industry best
- Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance (APAS 5.0)
- Intelligent flight modes like ActiveTrack 5.0 & Waypoint
- Transmission up to 20 km with O4 video transmission
- Very quiet in flight – ideal for nature shots
- Includes Fly More Combo with 3 batteries & carrying case
Cons
- Higher entry price
- Slightly complex to use for absolute beginners
TEST WINNER
4.9 / 5
VERY GOOD
★★★★★
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How good is the camera compared to its predecessors?
Significantly better: 4K with up to 100 fps and more flexibility thanks to wide angle & telephoto.
How easy is the control for beginners?
Easily doable with basic knowledge – app guides you step by step through the functions.
Is the drone legal to use in Germany?
Yes, registration required, but CE-certified for C1 category.
What range is realistic?
Up to 20 km theoretically – less in Europe due to legal requirements, but very stable.
Can you start with just one battery?
Yes, but the Fly More Combo is worth it, as one battery lasts about 40–45 minutes.
#2
DJI Mini 4 Pro
To the productPros
- Ultra-compact & foldable – under 249 grams (no registration required)
- 4K/60fps Video & RAW-Photo with D-Log M
- Omnidirectional obstacle detection
- Flight time up to 34 minutes
- O4 transmission up to 10 km
- ActiveTrack 360°, MasterShots & Hyperlapse
- Very good wind resistance for a lightweight
Cons
- No mechanical aperture – only digital filters possible
- Small sensor – slightly less detail than larger models
#3
Autel EVO Lite+
To the productPros
- 1-inch CMOS sensor with f/2.8-f/11 aperture
- 6K video & 50 MP photos
- Flight time up to 40 minutes
- No no-fly zone restriction
- Multiple flight modes including Dynamic Track 2.1
Cons
- App not quite as intuitive as DJI Fly
- Spare parts less common
- Only 3-way obstacle detection
#4
Parrot Anafi Ai
To the productPros
- 48 MP camera with 4K/60fps video
- Wide-angle gimbal – 180° swiveling up/down
- 4G LTE connection for unlimited range
- Compatible with Pix4D & mapping apps
- Very light & quiet
Cons
- Not suitable for windy conditions
- Batteries expensive to buy
- Camera quality not quite at DJI level
#5
Holy Stone HS720G
To the productPros
- Gimbal-stabilized 4K camera
- Up to 26 minutes flight time
- GPS & Return-to-Home function
- Very good price-performance ratio for beginners
- Foldable & compact
Cons
- No obstacle detection
- Rather average image quality
- Only 800 meters range
Important Criteria when Buying a Drone
- Camera: 4K is standard today, larger sensors (1 inch) offer better image quality.
- Flight time: Good models reach 30–45 minutes.
- Safety: Obstacle detection & GPS are important for beginners.
- Portability: Foldable models are ideal for travel.
- Legal aspects: In the EU, registration is required for >250 g.
Why DJI Air 3 is the Test Winner
The DJI Air 3 combines the highest image quality, excellent flight characteristics and intelligent safety functions. The 46-minute flight time sets standards, while features such as ActiveTrack and omnidirectional obstacle avoidance offer maximum safety. Despite professional technology, it remains easy to use for ambitious hobby users. An all-round well thought-out overall package for breathtaking shots.
Buying Advice: which Drone is Right for You?
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is ideal for travelers or beginners. If you are looking for maximum image quality, go for the Air 3 or Autel EVO Lite+. The Parrot Anafi Ai is a good choice for mapping and industrial applications. Beginners or occasional users are well advised to use the Holy Stone HS720G.
Important questions before buying:
- What do you want to use the drone for – hobby, film, surveying?
- Does the drone have to be travel-friendly and lightweight?
- Is Full-HD enough or do you need 4K+?
- Is app control important to you?
- How much budget is available?
Available at Amazon, DJI-Store, MediaMarkt, Conrad or specialist drone dealers.
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