However, theyre expensive and have short flight times, and theres no built-in GPS either.
ZeroZero Robotics has made quite the name for itself with its HoverAir X1 Pro and X1 ProMax selfie drones.
There arent many consumer drones out there that can shoot 8K video, setting these apart from the rest.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Both drones are compact and lightweight, and they boast accurate tracking skills which power 10 intelligent flight modes.
The two-axis gimbal design ensures that the X1 Pro shoots stable 4K/60fps video.
The X1 ProMax takes things up a notch by shooting 8K/30fps video.
For the complete breakdown, read my full HoverAir X1 Pro and X1 ProMax review.
The two drones succeed theX1, which costs$399/359.
Measuring 6.81 x 5.86 x 1.53 inches when unfolded, both drones are the same size.
Their compact and lightweight design makes them perfect for travelling or a skiing or biking trip.
Also, because they weigh under 8.78oz (249g), you dont need FAA/CAA registration to fly them.
you’ve got the option to fly them indoors too.
And thats all it’s crucial that you get started.
This is perhaps the most fun Ive had testing an optional accessory.
you’re able to clip the Beacon onto your bikes handlebar and the drones will accurately follow you.
The Beacon also has a built-in microphone which supports voice commands and audio recording with noise reduction.
JoyStick
Now onto the JoyStick.
These are two separate units that can be used in three ways, thanks to the tri-state modular design.
Clipping the Beacon onto the right JoyStick allows you to fly the drones with one hand.
you’re able to now connect your phone via a USB-C cable to the controller and continue flying.
This works like the Neos RC-N3 controller.
I did have to remove myGoogle Pixel 7 Pros case, although thats a minor complaint.
Both drones have level 5 wind resistance which means you could fly them in 10.7m/s or 24mph winds.
Both drones come with card slots that support microSD cards up to 1TB, plus internal storage.
The X1 Pro has 32GB of internal storage while the X1 ProMax has double that at 64GB.
The DJI Flip, in comparison, has just 2GB internal storage while the DJI Neo has 22GB.
The X1 ProMax has additional visual sensors to improve obstacle avoidance.
Meanwhile, the DJI Neo doesnt feature any obstacle avoidance.
Just like the DJI Flip, which features front-facing obstacle avoidance only, HoverAirs drones dont feature all-round avoidance.
This makes flying in complex environments trickier, so just keep an eye on them.
Both drones have a maximum transmission range of 500m, so are meant for close proximity shooting.
When using the Beacon and JoyStick, this jumps to 0.62 miles (1km).
The X1 Pro captures 4K/60fps and FHD/120fps video, and 2.7K/60fps vertical video.
Meanwhile, the X1 ProMax records 8K/30fps video and 4K/30fps vertical video.
you’re able to adjust these manually too if you like.
Both drones have an ISO range of 100-12,800 and a shutter speed of 1/30-1/8000s.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
I love the video Ive captured above.
The video above was shot in 8K at 30fps on the X1 ProMax, but exported at 4K.
That kinda gives you an idea of the benefits of 8K for most people (i.e.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
there aren’t many).
it’s possible for you to also crop into frame while maintaining decent resolutions.
These will be of primary benefit to serious content creators and video production professionals.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
There arent many consumer drones out there that will need to shoot 8K video.
You also tend to lose signal when flying up high due to the lack of built-in GPS.
The app is very easy to use and pairing your drone with it is straightforward.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
These drones arent particularly cheap either, which adds insult to injury.
Lets see how the batteries fared in my testing.
Thats not to say these drones are perfect.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Overall, though, Ive had a lot of fun testing these drones.
Theyre easy to use and take gorgeous footage.
The X1 Pro and X1 ProMax give the DJI Neo a run for its money.
(Image credit: ZeroZero Robotics)
(Image credit: ZeroZero Robotics)
(Image credit: ZeroZero Robotics)
(Image credit: ZeroZero Robotics)
(Image credit: ZeroZero Robotics)
