Best Geodetic Quadrocopters for 2020

Drones used to be seen only in science fiction films. New technologies are capable of turning any fairy tale into reality. In the 21st century, a geodetic quadcopter, or drone, a radio-controlled analogue of a helicopter with four engines for aerial photography, is actively used by humans. In recent years, aerial robots have become very popular. They are purchased not only for professional use, but also for home entertainment. The number of offers of different models and manufacturers is growing. We will try to find out what to look for when choosing a fashionable gadget, we will make a rating of the best geodetic quadcopters for 2020.

How to choose a quadcopter

A geodetic quadcopter is a radio-controlled aircraft with four propellers for aerial photography. The popularity of the models is due to a wide range of applications:

• amateur video and photography;
• forestry and water management;
• Agriculture;
• activities of the Ministry of Emergencies;
• urban planning;
• cadastral registration;
• geodesy and cartography;
• special services and armed forces.

The demand for quadcopters is growing due to a number of advantages:

• compactness;
• availability of operation;
• low noise indicators;
• smooth movement;
• good maneuverability;
• lack of strong air currents.

Comparison with other survey methods shows that the drone is preferable in professional activities for two reasons:

1. cheaper than filming from manned aircraft;
2. image accuracy is higher than with a satellite camera.

The best manufacturers produce a large number of models, different in price and configuration. However, according to buyers, not all of them are equally reliable. Consider what to look for in order to imagine which company is better, without making mistakes when choosing.

Criterias of choice

For high-quality aerial photography, models with certain parameters are suitable. You can choose them according to the following criteria:

1. flight characteristics - minimum and maximum altitude, flight duration, maximum speed. Also important are the ability to automatically return to the place of departure and long-term autonomy without recharging and cable;
2. cost - especially important for novice pilots: miniature simple models can be bought for 2-3 thousand rubles, medium-sized and equipped models cost 10-20 thousand, advanced devices from 50 thousand rubles, more than one hundred thousand will have to be paid for professional-level quadrocopters;
3. rechargeable battery - must be powerful, in most cases, lithium polymer, with LED indication, built-in cooling fan, USB-connector for connecting to a charger;
4. blades - the most energy-saving blades are considered to be pointed, the optimal length is 8-11 inches, from materials it is better to give preference to durable composite rather than plastic;
5. type of control - the device can be equipped with a remote control for radio control, providing the longest departure range); with wi-fi support (control from a tablet, smartphone via a local wireless connection), via Bluetooth from any smartphone via an application (the simplest budget drones with a short flight range); whatever the type of control of your quadrocopter, do not neglect the main rules - observe the recommended distance and speed; stay away from power lines; beware of strong gusty winds;
6. a camera and a stabilizer are an important component of a good device, on which the quality of recording pictures and videos depends: in simple models, the resolution of the built-in camera is from 3 MPa, in advanced models, FullHD quality is possible, as well as video in 4K mode with a two-, three-axis stabilizer that prevents image shaking ... The most powerful devices are capable of working with attached DSLRs and cameras;
7. power plant and propellers - four electric motors to accelerate the apparatus up to 15 m / s and fight the wind, the propellers of which are equipped with independent narrow blades.

Kinds

According to the distance of the diagonal between the motors, geodetic quadcopters are:

• micro - miniature devices up to 10 cm in size, with a flight duration of about 10 minutes, an excellent stabilization system that allows the device to be launched even indoors;
• small - budget models for beginners with excellent flight characteristics, high maneuverability, easy to operate, equipped with a camera for recording a flight;
• medium - the most popular type, characterized by compact dimensions, durable materials, good equipment, full motion and control parameters. It can work from the remote control, from a smartphone, via wi-fi;
• large - professional-level models for advanced users, characterized by powerful motors, large sizes, capacious batteries, an excellent camera. They successfully cope with adverse weather conditions, fly up to 50 minutes. They are capable of transmitting images with a minimum error when drawing up maps, terrain plans, video.

According to the level of the user's preparedness, two types of quadcopters are distinguished:

1. amateur (for home use);
2. professional (for specific activities).

Recommendations

Before you buy or order a fashionable device online from an online store, it is important to learn a few practical tips:

• pre-study customer reviews about the model of interest, how much it costs, where to buy, weigh the advantages and disadvantages;
• for a start, it is appropriate to choose an inexpensive device with small dimensions for teaching piloting skills;
• buy a device in an official store with the obligatory presence of a service center and a guarantee;
  pay attention to the DJI lineup - despite the high cost of individual series, the popular models of this manufacturer are rightfully considered the highest quality and most complete in the class;
• carefully examine the flight characteristics of the drone. The recording of the shooting can be transmitted via a video channel or simply carried out on a flash drive. Devices can differ in the number of control channels - the higher it is, the more parameters will be transmitted;
• it is preferable to choose an apparatus with a gyroscope - a position sensor responsible for resistance to a side wind;
• if the device is purchased for a child, then the best option is a drone with brushless motors to avoid damage;
• an important detail when choosing - the duration of the flight without replacing the battery and the range of motion, which depends on the control method.

How to recognize a fake

When buying a quadcopter, it is important to be able to distinguish branded goods from fake ones. Consider what are the distinctive features of the original:

1. a certified service center is required;
2. warranty period of service;
3. complete with plug of European type C without adapters;
4. the serial number does not contain R or S characters (fifth from the end);
5. a regional EU barcode, indicating a permit to sell products in Russia.

If at least one item does not match, this is a fake.

Ranking of the best geodetic quadcopters for 2020

Consider an overview of the best models that can be bought in Russia, with a description of the characteristics and features.

Professional, cost - from 1,000,000 rubles.

Geoscan 401

Geodetic quadrocopter of Russian production with impressive dimensions and excellent technical parameters. It is actively used for industrial purposes: for area reconnaissance, air patrolling, monitoring. Convenient practical device, the fasteners of the design of which provide a quick change of attachments. When sold, a special transport case is included in the package, where the drone is folded and the control device is placed. When the landing legs are folded, a docking platform is formed with the body of the apparatus, on a two-story frame of which, made of durable carbon fiber, a battery and electronic filling are attached. Beams with electric motors are attached to the frame. Configuration options:

• Sony A5000 camera;
• digital camera Sony DSC-RX1;
• mirrorless camera.

The image is transmitted to the operator's monitor via a digital communication channel. The device can operate from a cable connected to a ground generator or power supply, or autonomously. The model is equipped with electrical safety equipment with a lightning protection function, a unique system of self-diagnostic equipment. It has an extended temperature range for use in various climatic conditions (from -40 ° C to + 40 ° C). The heavy weight (9.3 kg) helps to fight the wind, the powerful battery lasts for an hour of flight time, during which the device covers more than 20 km. The maximum possible speed is 50 km / h.

• positive feedback from specialists;
• getting clear pictures;
• wide temperature range;
• long range and duration of flight;
• high-quality processing of the received data;
• protective systems;
• fast start;
• durable materials;
• transport case included;
• guarantee.

• high price.

Average price: 1,450,000 rubles.

DJI Matrice 210

This device is designed for industrial use. The unit is distinguished not only by the widest functionality, but also by improved wear resistance. There are powerful motors, 17-inch propellers each, which will allow the device to be independent of the wind. This copter is not afraid of the cold, as there are two self-heating batteries on board. Water and snow will also not become an obstacle to carrying out geodetic works.

About the flight: maximum duration - 7 km, duration - up to 27 minutes. There are modes of movement along a given route and circling around the shooting object. The device can automatically take off and land. There is a functional for determining the coordinates of the location, as well as an automatic return to the place of departure.

About the camera: The built-in camera has 3-axis stabilization, it is possible to record videos in 4K format.

Of course, there is the possibility of broadcasting to the monitor online (5.8 G).

The device weighs 3840 g.

• Shooting quality;
• A wide range of shooting modes, including "follow me";
• Foldable design;
• RTF (Ready-to-Fly) package;
• There is a control mode for Headless beginners.

• Not identified.

Cost: from 1,000,000 rubles.

Geodetic quadcopters worth 400 - 900 thousand rubles

DJI Phantom 4 RTK Combo

A high-precision device with the use of several control modes, free technologies, for which a minimum number of route points is sufficient, operates at a low altitude.Equipped with an RTK module to obtain the most accurate positioning data with minimum error. The remote control with a built-in super-bright five-inch screen facilitates the process of collecting and processing data. Works with third-party applications that can be downloaded to a smartphone or tablet. The OcuSync image and HD video transmission system up to 7 km helps in drawing up maps and plans of large areas. Full compatibility with the mobile station D-RTK 2 provides data with an accuracy of 10 mm in all weather conditions. Three-axis stabilization prevents image shaking from 10 to 7000 m.

• RTK module;
• mobile station for the D-RTK 2 satellite system;
• OcuSync system;
• high performance;
• center of the frame with an accuracy of 1 cm in the plan;
• quick-detachable geodetic antenna;
• GS RTK app with built-in screen;
• improved data processing system;
• support for third-party applications;
• many anchor points are not required;
• maximum flight altitude 6000 m.

• expensive.

Average price: 541,500 rubles.

DJI MATRICE 600 PRO flight platform

This model is distinguished not only by good build quality and excellent technical equipment, for example, smart batteries, a flight controller or a power management system. This aircraft is compatible with the DJI Zenmuse range of cameras and third party hardware / software. This moment, coupled with the increased payload, allows it to be equipped with the best shooting equipment. For example, the Ronin-MX 3-axis gimbal.

About the flight: maximally the copter can move away from the remote control by 5 km and stay in fly-mode for up to 35 minutes. The device is able to maintain altitude, follow a given route or fly around an object of interest from all sides. Automatic takeoff, landing and return are also available.

About the camera: from the built-in camera, which gives reasonably good quality thanks to the stabilizer (3-axis gimbal), the recording can be immediately broadcast to the monitor (5.8G).

Appliance weight: 9100 gr.

• A wide range of flight modes, including selfie mode;
• The ability to install various photographic equipment due to the increased carrying capacity and software equipment;
• Auto return.

• Not

Cost: from 456,000 rubles.

Geodetic quadcopters costing 100-400 thousand rubles

Typhoon H Pro RTF FPV

The light enough model, equipped with brushless motors, has a folding design. Preparation for launch does not require much time and the presence of special tools for assembly

Once launched, the aircraft can be in flight for 25 minutes and fly within 2 km.

A camera with the ability to record video in 4K helps to shoot, there is a 360-degree rotation functionality. The operator can see the subject of the shooting online on the remote control display / monitor.

Flight modes are not inferior to their more expensive counterparts, there are: following around the subject of shooting, flying along a programmed route, "follow me"

The device is quite light, weighing just over 1100 grams.

• All the necessary flight modes for the geodetic sphere;
• Automatic takeoff, landing and return;
• There is a mode of limiting flight zones;
• Good basic package (bundle);
• Suitable for go pro.

• Not the most impressive range and flight duration;
• There is a dependence on weather conditions.

Cost: 115,000 rubles.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian

The device can be operated at temperatures ranging from 0 to 40 degrees Celsius, while there are several speed modes, the range of which is 50-72 km / h. At the same time, the device can detect obstacles, like more expensive devices, the range of obstacles detection is 0.2-7 m.

The flight range of this copter is impressive - 7 km, and the flight time is maximum 30 minutes. Coupled with a camera capable of recording in 4K format and the presence of 3-axis camera stabilization, the device adequately maintains the price-quality ratio.

Flight modes: following an object, flying around an object, moving along a previously built route. All footage can be broadcast on the monitor in online mode.

Appliance weight: 1400 gr.

• Wide functionality at an acceptable cost;
• Good range and duration of flight;
• There is an automatic takeoff and landing, as well as an automatic return.

• The design is not foldable.

The cost of the device: 135,000 rubles.

Quadrocopters for geodesy costing up to 100,000 rubles

DJI Mavic Air Fly More Combo

The model has a good built-in memory - 8 GB, an excellent camera with FullHD recording quality. It can rise to a height of 500 m at a speed of 19 m / s. When controlled via Bluetooth, wi-fi, the device keeps a distance of up to 80 m, with a radio remote control - 2 km. The extended package includes two spare batteries, 8 screws, a stick for equipment, a bag with pockets for the body and consumables of the quadcopter. It can be used as a charging station for gadgets, for which there are two USB connectors on the power supply. Equipped with screw protection system, stabilizer.

• build quality;
• a lot of spare parts;
• convenient bag with pockets;
• image quality;
• camera stabilization;
• different control options;
• powerful engines;
• protection of screws, stabilizer;
• simple quick start.

• no suspension.

Average price: 79,700 rubles.

Parrot anafi

A European model for dynamic shooting, equipped with an auto-follow system with an aerial selfie function. Folds up if necessary, taking up little space. High quality images in photo and video format are transmitted to the operator's monitor, memory drive. The picture is clear and vivid thanks to HDR support. Zoom allows you to enlarge the image while maintaining full quality. The unique system of visual distancing of the background - Dolly-effect makes the device popular and in demand. The device is equipped with brushless motors, visual positioning sensor, stabilizer protection. Pleases the flight duration - up to 25 minutes without recharging. The device automatically returns to the point of departure when the battery is low, loss of communication with the operator.

• quality;
• folding;
• easy to manage;
• convenient functions;
• brushless screws;
• Dolly effect;
• high image quality;
• affordable price;
• long flight.

• not identified.

Average price: 42,000 rubles.

Shooting from the air has become a part of our life. Today, the activities of public services and organizations are impossible without the use of geodetic quadrocopters. Which one is better to buy, everyone decides for himself. The presented rating of high-quality devices will help you to competently approach the choice of a high-performance reliable device.