They’re not that expensive, but they’re not cheap. The DJI mini goes on sale for like $200 fairly often and that’s an insane value for what it is. But yeah, unless you live in an area with a lot of great views you’ll probably use it a handful of times then leave it in its box.
Unfortunately the US government is trying to outlaw them so we might not get newer models.
fatcat@discuss.tchncs.de 5 days ago
They are great for exploration and photography/videography which I’d count as rather useful. More “useless” things are flying it for fun and getting better at controlling it. There is stunt flying and tricks you can do, there is a whole community of enthusiasts who modify (and build) drones and contests you can compete in. “Useless” like any other hobby I guess.
Iconoclast@feddit.uk 5 days ago
Yeah, EDC aerial reconnaissance is the other usecase besides photography. Nice to have something you can send to scout ahead before commiting to bushwhacking.
Doing stunts and tricks requires a different kind of drone though.