HOVERAir X1 review

The original HOVERAir X1 is the cheapest and lightest drone on our list and the least intimidating. It weighs 125 g, which HOVERAir says is lighter than an iPhone and exempt from FAA registration, and it takes off from your palm with one button in about 3 seconds. Preset modes include Hover, Follow, Side Track, Dolly Track, Zoom Out, Bird's Eye, Orbit and 360 degree spin, and it follows at up to 16 mph. The camera records 2.7K at 30 fps or 1080p at 60 fps with HDR, stabilized by a pitch-axis mechanical gimbal plus EIS, onto 32 GB of storage. The limits are real: 11.5 minutes per battery, Level 4 wind resistance, live view up to 30 m and a default ceiling of 10 m, or 15 m in Bird's Eye mode. HOVERAir's US store sold the 22-min Flight version, which includes an extra battery and charging hub, for $299 when we checked.

Who it is for

Beginners on a tight budget who want hands-free selfies and family clips close to the ground.

Price

$299 for the 22-min Flight version with an extra battery and charging hub at HOVERAir's US store when checked.

22-min Flight $299
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 9, 2026.

Key features

• 125 g (4.41 oz) including battery
• 3-second palm takeoff with one button
• Follow, Dolly Track, Orbit, Bird's Eye and 360 degree spin modes
• 2.7K at 30 fps video and 12 MP photos
• 32 GB storage, box includes an extra battery and charging hub

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Cheapest drone on our list
• Strength: Lightest here at 125 g
• Strength: Extra battery and hub in the $299 box
• Weakness: 2.7K video only, with pitch-axis gimbal plus EIS
• Weakness: 11.5 minutes per battery
• Weakness: Live view range up to 30 m and a 10 m default ceiling

Key facts

• Weight: 125 g
• Max video: 2.7K at 30 fps
• Flight time: 11.5 minutes
• Image transmission: Up to 30 m
• Storage: 32 GB

Where it ranks

HOVERAir X1 is No. 8 in our Best Drones for Beginners verdict.