For many drone pilots, the key spec in a drone isn’t its camera or its flying time. It’s the drone’s weight. Drones under 250 grams are popular for several reasons. They’re easy to transport. They’re typically safer to fly. But perhaps most importantly, drones that weigh 249 grams or less tend to benefit from fewer regulations, making them a favorite among hobbyists and travelers alike. So what’s the best drone under 250 grams?
DJI offers some of the best options in the category of sub-250 gram drones. (Hey, they dominate the market of all consumer drones, period). The list of best DJI drones under 250 grams tends to correspond closely with the list of best drones for beginners.
In the past, the list of best drones under 250 grams has included the DJI Mini 2 SE and Mini 3. But as new players come to the market, the list always changes with today’s picks including new drones that launched in 2025, like the DJI Flip and DJI Mini 5 Pro.
So which is the best drone under 250 grams for you? Here’s an in-depth look at each model, highlighting their features and why they stand out.
Picking the best drone under 250 grams from DJI
The significance of drones under 250 grams
Drones weighing under 250 grams have unique advantages particularly regarding regulations. In some countries, drones under 250 grams can perform more complex operations, such as flying beyond visual lines of sight or over people, which expands their potential uses.
In the U.S., under-250-gram recreational drones don’t require FAA registration. Additionally, they’re often exempt from compliance with Remote ID requirements, again simplifying policy adherence. Note that all drones flying for commercial purposes in the U.S. under Part 107 must be registered.
Beyond regulations, lightweight drones are ideal for travel, easily fitting into carry-on backpacks without adding significant weight to your luggage. They’re also generally safer for beginners since their lower mass reduces potential injury risk.
How DJI drones under 250 grams compare: side by side
Here’s a detailed comparison of the best DJI drones under 250 grams on the market today. All drones in this list are similarly small, so I broke them out by other key features like cost, flight time, image sensor, video quality and obstacle sensing.
All of the prices named here are the standard price options. Of course, prices increase with more add-ons like Fly More Combos or other add-on accessories like spare batteries. And yes, if you prefer an RC2 controller over an RC-N2, then add more to your budget.
| Feature | DJI Neo | DJI Mini 4K | DJI Flip | DJI Mini 4 Pro | DJI Mini 5 Pro |
| Cost | $199 | $299 | $439 | $759 | ~$750 (though not sold in U.S.) |
| Flight Time | 18 minutes | 31 minutes | 31 minutes | 45 minutes | 36 min (52 extended with Intelligent Flight Battery) |
| Image Sensor | 1/2-inch image CMOS | 1/2.3-inch CMOS | 1/1.3-inch CMOS | 1/1.3-inch CMOS | 1-inch CMOS, 50MP |
| Video | 4K/30fps and 1080p@60/50/30fps | 4K/30fps | 4K HDR | 4K/60fps, HDR | 4K/120fps HDR |
| Gimbal | 3-axis mechanical | 3-axis mechanical | 3-axis mechanical | 3-axis mechanical | 3-axis + 225° rotation |
| Obstacle Sensing | Downward | Downward | Downward and forward | Omnidirectional | Omnidirectional + LiDAR |
The best DJI drones under 250 grams
Here’s a breakdown of DJI’s best drones under 250 grams, ranked by overall value and capability:
DJI Mini 5 Pro: best overall (if you can get it)
Note: I have not reviewed this drone myself due to U.S. availability restrictions.
The DJI Mini 5 Pro, announced in September 2025, would be my top pick for the best drone under 250 grams if it were available in the U.S. This drone represents a massive technological breakthrough by cramming a full 1-inch sensor — the same size found in much larger, more expensive drones — into a 249.9-gram package.
Why the Mini 5 Pro would be the best:
- Professional image quality: The 50MP, 1-inch sensor delivers image quality that rivals the Air 3S
- Advanced video capabilities: 4K/120fps slow-motion recording
- Unique features: 225° gimbal rotation and true 90° vertical shooting
- Superior night performance: 1-lux omnidirectional obstacle sensing with forward-facing LiDAR
- Extended flight time: Up to 52 minutes with the extended battery
The major drawback: Like the Mavic 4 Pro, DJI isn’t selling the Mini 5 Pro directly in the U.S. While it might occasionally appear on sites like Adorama and B&H Photo, availability would be sporadic and warranty support questionable.
International pricing: Around $750 USD equivalent in markets where it’s available.
Who it would be for: Travel photographers and content creators who need professional image quality but require the regulatory advantages or portability of a sub-250g drone.
DJI Mini 4 Pro: best overall for U.S. buyers
The DJI Mini 4 Pro, priced at $759, is a fine consolation prize if you’re shopping in the U.S. For international buyers who have the choice between the DJI Mini 4 Pro versus Mini 5 Pro, it’s also a strong runner up.
The DJI Mini 4 Pro features a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor and can shoot 4K video at 60fps with HDR, providing stunning clarity and detail.
The Mini 4 Pro also includes an omnidirectional obstacle-sensing system, making it one of the safest drones in its weight class. This drone is particularly crash-proof, which is invaluable for beginners and experienced pilots flying in challenging environments.
With a flight time of up to 45 minutes (or 34 minutes with the standard battery), this drone offers excellent performance for those willing to invest in top-tier features. It’s ideal for professional photographers and videographers who need the best possible image quality and safety features while staying under the 250g threshold.
Key advantages:
- Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance
- 4K/60fps HDR video recording
- Extended 45-minute flight time with Plus battery
- True vertical shooting capability
- Available in the U.S. with full warranty support
- Purchase the DJI Mini 4 Pro now for $759 on Amazon
- Buy the DJI Mini 4 Pro now from B&H Photo
- Purchase the DJI Mini 4 now for $759 on Amazon
DJI Flip: best budget pick
If you’re looking for an affordable entry into the DJI ecosystem, the DJI Flip offers exceptional value while keeping the price accessible. At $439 — well under the $759 price of the Mini 4 Pro — it delivers impressive capabilities for the money.
The Flip’s standout feature is its unique foldable, full-coverage propeller guards that make it exceptionally safe for beginners and ideal for indoor flying. Simplified controls make it a great option for first-time pilots, while the 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor captures quality 4K HDR footage.
While it lacks the advanced omnidirectional obstacle sensing and high-end camera features of premium models, the DJI Flip is perfect for casual flyers, families, and content creators who want an easy-to-use, fun drone that won’t break the budget.
Key advantages:
- Built-in propeller guards for safety
- 1/1.3-inch sensor (same as Mini 4 Pro)
- 4K HDR video recording
- Beginner-friendly controls
- 2GB internal storage
- Order the DJI Flip drone from Amazon, starting at $439
- Order the DJI Flip drone from B&H Photo, starting at $439.
- Order the DJI Flip drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $439.
DJI Mini 4K: runner-up on budget
The DJI Mini 4K at $299 is more than $100 less than the DJI Flip, making it worth considering if budget is your primary concern.
It offers 4K video recording at 30fps with a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor and 12MP stills, along with a 3-axis motorized gimbal for smooth, stable shots. The 31-minute maximum flight time is respectable for its price point.
When it was first released on Amazon back in June 2024, it quickly became Amazon’s best-selling drone due to its combination of 4K capability and affordability. It’s ideal for users who want to capture high-quality video without a significant investment.
However, if you can afford the extra $140 for the Flip, the upgrade is worthwhile. The Flip offers better image quality, internal storage (helpful if you’ve forgotten your microSD card) and protective propeller guards that can save you money on repairs.
Key advantages:
- Purchase the DJI Mini 4K now for $299 on Amazon
- True 4K video (vs 2.7K on cheaper alternatives)
- 3-axis mechanical gimbal
- 31-minute flight time
- Sub-$300 price point
- Purchase the DJI Mini 4K now for $299 on Amazon
What about the DJI Mini 2 SE? Skip it
The DJI Mini 2 SE is even cheaper than the DJI Mini 4K, coming in at $279. But don’t be fooled by the $20 savings. Skip this drone.
While I used to recommend it as a decent entry-level option, the DJI Mini 4K is only $20 more and offers significantly better value. The Mini 2 SE lacks 4K video capability (shooting only 2.7K), has no obstacle avoidance and offers fewer intelligent flight modes.
For just $20 more, the Mini 4K gives you true 4K recording, which alone makes it worth the upgrade. Save your money for a drone that won’t feel outdated immediately.
- Purchase the DJI Mini 2 SE now for $279 on Amazon
What about DJI Neo? Good for content creators and “non-pilots”
DJI Neo stands apart from traditional drones as a specialized content creation tool. At just 135 grams and $199, it’s the lightest and most affordable option in DJI’s lineup.
This ultra-compact drone is specifically designed for hand-launch selfie capture rather than traditional aerial photography. Think of it as a flying camera for vloggers who want fresh angles for Instagram Reels and TikTok videos. It excels at close-range content creation but isn’t suitable for landscape photography or long-distance flying.
Key advantages:
- Hand-launch operation (no controller needed)
- Ultra-lightweight at 135g
- Most affordable DJI drone at $199
- Perfect for social media content
- Voice control and gesture recognition
Limitations:
- Very limited range and flight time (18 minutes)
- Not suitable for traditional aerial photography
- Basic 4K/30fps recording only
Think of it as a dream drone for vloggers to post Instagram reels and TikTok videos from a fresh angle. Check out my full DJI Neo review.
- Order DJI Neo now from Adorama for $199.
- Order DJI Neo now from Amazon for $199.
- Order DJI Neo now from B&H Photo for $199.
- Order DJI Neo now from Drone Nerds for $199.
Which DJI drone under 250 grams is the best?
The answer depends on your location and priorities:
If you’re outside the U.S. and can access it, the DJI Mini 5 Pro would be the clear winner. Its 1-inch sensor represents a generational leap in image quality for sub-250g drones, making it essentially an Air 3S in a mini form factor.
For U.S. buyers, the DJI Mini 4 Pro remains the best overall choice, offering omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, excellent image quality, and professional features in a readily available package.
For budget-conscious buyers, the DJI Flip provides the best value, delivering 90% of the Mini 4 Pro’s capability at 58% of the price, plus the added safety of built-in propeller guards.
For absolute beginners or social media creators, the DJI Neo offers a unique, affordable entry point into drone photography, though with significant limitations.
The DJI Mini 4K serves as a solid middle ground for those who want 4K capability without spending over $300. It’s the cheapest DJI drone that I recommend, though the Flip is worth the extra investment if you can stretch your budget.
Ultimately, while the Mini 5 Pro would revolutionize the sub-250g category if available domestically as not just the best mini drone but the best camera drone. Otherwise, the Mini 4 Pro continues to be the best choice for most American drone enthusiasts who want professional results without regulatory hassles.
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