The 5 Best Drones for Vlogging in 2023

Drones have become an extremely popular tool for vloggers and travel vloggers in recent years. A good drone lets you easily capture stunning aerial footage and really take your videos to the next level. But with so many drone options out there in 2023, how do you know which models are the most awesome drones for vlogging specifically?

In this blog post, we’ll cover the top 5 best drones for vlogging and making YouTube videos this year. We’ll look at key factors like video quality, flight time, portability, and more to help you pick the perfect vlogging drone for your needs and budget. Let’s get started!

Why You Need a Drone for Vlogging in 2023

Before jumping into the top 5 list, let’s briefly go over why a drone is such an invaluable tool for vlogging.

Modern drones are easier to fly than ever before thanks to intelligent flight modes and improved control systems. Even for beginners, it’s possible to get professional-looking aerial footage with minimal practice. Drones open up a whole new world of creative shots, angles, and perspectives for your vlogs.

The latest drones offer excellent video resolution and camera sensors capable of 4K video. This means your aerial footage will be incredibly immersive and cinematic for viewers. Pairing drone clips with footage from your main camera takes your vlog production quality to the next level.

Finally, drones are more affordable and accessible than ever. There are top-notch options available even if you’re on a budget. Investing in a drone for vlogging is one of the best things you can do to enhance your YouTube channel this year.

Why We Focused on DJI Drones

DJI is NOT a sponsor, and we don’t have any affiliate relationship with DJI. While there are drones made by other manufacturers, DJI has emerged as the clear leader and top brand when it comes to aerial filming drones. Their innovation and expertise with camera drones means DJI models dominate many best drone lists for good reason.

For finding the optimal combination of video quality, flying performance, safety features, and intelligent shooting modes, DJI drones rise above competitors as the best options for vlogging needs right now. This is why our list focuses specifically on top picks from the DJI lineup rather than alternatives.

Outline of the 5 Best Drones for Vloggers

Here’s a quick outline of the 5 DJI drones that make the cut for best vlogging drones this year:

• DJI Mavic 3 – The new flagship foldable drone from DJI with insane video quality and flight time.
• DJI Air 2S – A superb all-around drone for vloggers on a budget.
• DJI Mini 3 Pro – A tiny but mighty and portable drone new for 2023.
• DJI Avata – An exciting FPV drone for a more immersive vlogging perspective.
• DJI Phantom 4 Pro – A classic top choice for professionals.

Below we’ll explore each of these top picks in more detail:

#1. DJI Mavic 3

The DJI Mavic 3 is the new flagship consumer drone from the leading drone brand DJI, released in late 2021. This foldable drone is at the cutting edge when it comes to aerial video performance and photography. It’s the best drone DJI has made to date and the #1 choice I recommend for vlogging this year.

Here are some of the key features and specs of the Mavic 3 that make it so great for vlogging:

• Extended flight time up to 46 minutes
• Cutting-edge Hasselblad camera with 4/3 CMOS sensor
• 5.1K video resolution
• Adjustable aperture from f/2.8 to f/11
• 10-bit D-log color for pro-level video
• O3 transmission for long-range control

The Mavic 3 excels when it comes to video quality and smooth footage right out of the camera. The large sensor provides excellent dynamic range and low light performance. You can capture professional-grade aerial clips to take your vlog production to the next level.

While the Mavic 3 is one of the pricier options, it delivers performance and reliability unmatched by other consumer drones today. For travel vloggers, outdoor vloggers, and professionals, the Mavic 3 is the new gold standard for aerial filming.

#2 DJI Air 2S

The DJI Air 2S has been one of the most popular vlogging drones since its release in 2021. It strikes an impressive balance of video performance, portability, and an affordable price point. For many vloggers, the Air 2S is the best drone option right now.

Here are some of the key video-focused features of the Air 2S:

• 5.4K video resolution with HDR options
• 1″ CMOS sensor for excellent image quality
• Up to 31 minutes of flight time per battery
• 120Mbps bitrate for sharp, detailed video footage
• Intelligent shooting modes like MasterShots

The Air 2S folds down to a compact size that’s easy to pack and travel with. But it still delivers professional-level aerial footage that will take your vlogs to new heights. DJI’s signature technologies like obstacle avoidance and stable flight performance make capturing cinematic clips a breeze.

For serious vloggers and content creators, the DJI Air 2S is quite simply one of the best drones for vlogging available today. It will appeal to many users with its more accessible price point compared to the Mavic 3.

#3. DJI Mini 3 Pro

The DJI Mini series has been a fantastic option for vloggers who need a portable, lightweight drone. The new DJI Mini 3 Pro takes the series to the next level for aerial filming. It’s the best lightweight drone for vlogging from DJI yet.

Some of the improvements with the Mini 3 Pro include:

• 4K/60fps and 48MP photos
• 34 minutes maximum flight time
• Tri-directional obstacle sensing
• 90° gimbal rotation for vertical shots

The Mini 3 Pro weighs just 249 grams but manages to pack in a camera sensor that can shoot crisp, stable 4K footage perfect for vlogs. The compact drone design means it’s easy to pack in any bag or take on a trip.

For travel vloggers who are always on the go, the Mini 3 Pro is an ideal choice today. It delivers professional drone footage and a fun flying experience in an ultra-portable package. The approachable price is another big selling point of the Mini series for budget-conscious buyers.

If you want a highly portable drone that still captures amazing video, the DJI Mini 3 Pro is one of the best options this year.

#4. DJI Avata

If you’re looking for a more immersive FPV (first-person view) drone experience for your vlogs, the DJI Avata is an exciting option. Some of the standout features of this brand-new drone include:

• Cinematic 4K/60fps video
• Intuitive motion controller instead of remote control
• Up to 18 minutes flight time
• Top speed of 87mph in Manual mode!
• Easy to fly even for beginners

The Avata offers an FPV perspective where you see live video being recorded from the drone’s camera on the headset as you fly. This creates a thrilling, immersive flying experience that lets you capture unique angles and footage perfect for vlogs.

While the Avata doesn’t have the outright video quality or flight time of the Mavic series, its agile performance and FPV capabilities make it one of the most fun and engaging drones for vlogging at the moment. It opens the door to new creative shots and an exciting way to film adventures.

#5. DJI Phantom 4 Pro

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro has been a staple professional drone since its release in 2017. While it’s an older model, it still delivers excellent performance that makes it one of the best drones for vlogging available today.

Key features and specs:

• 5.2K 30fps video
• 1″ CMOS sensor for sharp, vivid imaging
• Sophisticated subject tracking modes
• 30 minutes flight per battery
• 7km HD video transmission range

The Phantom 4 Pro captures exceptionally smooth, stable video footage thanks to its 3-axis mechanical gimbal and solid construction. It offers professional performance and reliability in a proven platform. While newer options like the Air 2S have overtaken it in some regards, the Phantom 4 Pro remains a top choice for demanding vloggers and video creators.

For those willing to invest more into their aerial filming, the Phantom 4 Pro won’t disappoint when it comes to taking your vlogs to the next level with gorgeous video. It still holds up well today for dedicated vlogging professionals.

Summary – The Best of the Best for Aerial Filming

That wraps up our rundown of the top 5 best drones for vlogging content creators in 2023! Whether you’re just getting started flying drones or taking your channel to more professional levels, one of these DJI models is sure to meet your drone filming needs.

Key takeaways:

• DJI Mavic 3 – The new flagship with insane video quality and flight time
• DJI Air 2S – A mid-range marvel that’s affordable and portable
• DJI Mini 3 Pro – The new ultra-lightweight 4K video champion
• DJI Avata – An exciting FPV option for immersive footage
• Phantom 4 Pro – A professional’s choice with impressive performance

Whichever model you go with, having an excellent drone in your creative toolkit will help take your vlogs to new heights in 2023. The technology keeps getting better each year. So if you’re ready to elevate your channel with stunning aerials, be sure to consider this list of the 5 best DJI drones for vlogging available today.

FAQ About Drones for Vlogging

Q1: What should I look for in a drone for vlogging?

A1: The most important factors for vlogging drones are video resolution and quality, flight time, camera stability and sensors, smart shooting modes, and portability. You want smooth, stable, detailed footage and enough air time to capture different shots. The drones on this list excel across the board.

Q2: Do I need a license to fly a drone for vlogging?

A2: Most hobbyist vlogging drones under 250g like the DJI Mini 3 Pro don’t require registration or licensing in many countries. However, be sure to check your local laws. For larger drones, registration and licensing is often required. Fly safely and responsibly.

Q3: How hard is it to fly a drone for beginners?

A3: Thanks to intelligent flight modes, auto take-off/landing, and improved controls, modern drones from DJI and others are easier to fly than ever, even for beginners with no prior experience. But always practice flying safely. Start slow, use flight simulators, and exercise caution.

Q4: How do I choose the best drone camera for vlogging?

A4: Look at sensor size, megapixels, aperture adjustability, and video resolution. The DJI Mavic 3 has one of the best drone cameras with its Hasselblad 4/3 CMOS sensor capable of 5.1K video. The Phantom 4 Pro and Air 2S also have excellent 1″ sensors.

Q5: What is a good battery life to look for in a vlogging drone?

A5: Look for drones that can fly for 25-45 minutes per battery like the DJI Mavic 3. This gives you enough flight time to get different aerial shots for your vlogs without constantly landing to change batteries.

Q6: Can an absolute beginner learn to fly a drone easily?

A6: Yes, many consumer drones today like the DJI Mini 3 Pro are a great choice for beginners thanks to their intelligent flight modes and overall ease of use. Take it slow and practice in open areas first. Drones have never been more beginner-friendly.

Q7: What creative shots can I get with point of interest mode?

A7: Point of interest mode lets you mark a subject and have the drone automatically orbit around it as it flies. This allows for creative circling videos. It’s great for unique vlogging perspectives.

Q8: Are cheap drones from brands other than DJI good for starting out?

A8: DJI makes some of the best quality and most reliable consumer drones. While more budget-friendly drones exist, they often compromise on video quality, flight time, or safety features. We recommend saving up for an entry-level DJI.

Q9: Is it legal to fly my drone anywhere? What are the rules?

A9: You must abide by local drone laws and regulations on where you can fly, maximum heights, distances from airports, etc. Research your country’s specific drone rules to stay compliant and fly safely and responsibly.

Q10: Can I make money as a professional drone pilot?

A10: Yes! With expertise, you can offer aerial filming services for productions, weddings, real estate, events, and more. Building a business around drone videography is very viable for skilled pilots.