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Last updated: February 24, 2024
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Not only flying in wet or rainy conditions, but even exploring the seabed, taking pictures of the underwater world, discovering new fishing grounds – all this is now possible with the best waterproof drone. However, one thing has remained the same: drones are as they were at the time they first hit the market. Most of them are very fragile devices that can be easily damaged by bad weather and excess water.
Let’s take a look, then, at some of the best waterproof drones that have handled this problem most successfully. In our review, you’ll discover water-resistant, waterproof, and underwater drones. We’ll also do a quick analysis of features you should consider before choosing a model.
"The PowerEgg X Wizard comes with a Deep Learning AI camera, SyncVoice, and Deep Learning, which leave conventional flying drones far behind.AI camera system with 4K UHD and 60 fps.Handheld mode.860g take-off weight."
"With its high image quality and waterproofing, the drone’s camera incorporates the Sony 1/2.3” sensor for professional images in 4K 30fps format or photos in 12 Mp.6 programmed flight modes.Radio control.Return to Home mode."
"Thanks to the IP67 protection class and a transmission range of 5 kilometers, the SplashDrone is one of the best for fishing.IP67 protection class.2kg payload and PL1-S release system.Thermal imaging camera."
"This drone can work completely submerged underwater and is equipped with a 35mm lens 4K UHD camera.4-hour battery run-time.VR goggles and fishfinder included.80m maximum depth."
"Chasing Dory is an underwater drone for use in calm waters and up to a depth of 15 meters, selling for half the price of many waterproof drones.1080p camera and lighting for exploration.Floating WiFi Buoy included.Can be used in saltwater."
What it is: For general purpose. The drone will be used on different occasions - mainly for taking photos and video recording. However, the model can also be used for geographic mapping, hunting and fishing or just for fun.
What are its best features?
High-tech camera system with 4K UHD and 60 FPS for perfect films and photos
Artificial intelligence camera (face recognition, automatic tracking)
Handheld mode; converts to a handheld camera in just a few simple steps
Real-time audio with SyncVoice technology
Shake-free, professional photo, and video recordings through gimbal stabilization
Easy to fly thanks to auto-return and collision control (through GPS and GLONASS)
Up to 6 km range and 4 km flight altitude
Powerful quadrocopter with a take-off weight of just 860 grams
What could be improved?
Firmware issues need resolving
A few users complain about camera issues
Our Editor’s Choice, the PowerEgg X Wizard comes with a Deep Learning AI camera, SyncVoice, and Deep Learning, which leave conventional flying drones far behind! The PowerEgg X combines an innovative design with grandiose aerodynamics and photo and video functions that will captivate even you as a professional. The deep learning control is so simple, safe, and automated that even drone beginners can access it without hesitation.
PowerEgg X Wizard is the ultimate outdoor drone. AI and deep learning for incredible performance and control. Waterproof and water-landing and take-off with up to 20-knot wind resistance. But what’s crazy: This drone can land on water – and can take off, and all of that up to an impressive wind force of 5 Beaufort (10m/s)!
Do you have concerns about damaging your drone because you don’t have enough experience flying drones? Completely unnecessary! The PowerEgg X recognizes all dangers when landing completely independently. The PowerVision Poweregg X Wizard AI drone automatically avoids obstacles and positions itself for landings.
One of the great advantages of the PowerVision PowerEgg X Wizard which we liked is its unparalleled aerodynamics. Even in strong side winds, you can fly the powerful quadrocopter without any problems. With the Wizard equipment, the flying drone is tailor-made for use on boats.
What it is: For general purpose. The drone will be used on different occasions - mainly for taking photos and video recording. However, the model can also be used for geographic mapping, hunting and fishing or just for fun.
Score components:
34%
Video
9.5
27%
Photography
9.0
12%
Geographic mapping
8.8
8%
Fishing
8.7
6%
Hunting
8.7
5%
Spy / Surveillance
9.0
5%
Racing
8.4
3%
Fun
9.0
Video
9.3
X
What it is: The drone will be used for video recording: professional cinematography, blogging, or any other purpose. The product’s required to feature high-resolution camera, wide field of view, and large memory card capacity, among other specs.
Score components:
35%
Video Resolution + FPS
8.0
10%
Camera adjustability (degrees)
N/S
10%
Live View (FPV) Quality
N/S
8%
Max memory card capacity (GB)
9.2
7%
FOV (degrees)
8.6
5%
Camera Mount Type
N/S
5%
Max height (meters)
7.8
5%
Smartphone controlled
10.0
3%
Follow me
10.0
3%
Altitude hold
10.0
3%
Circle Fly
10.0
3%
360° flip
N/S
3%
VR glasses compatibility
10.0
Photography
9.1
X
What it is: The drone’s going to be used for taking photos – it’s expected to possess a high-resolution camera, Altitude Hold feature for stabilization, as well as other useful features in this case – such as Circle Fly or Gesture Control.
Score components:
45%
Photo Resolution (Mp)
8.8
15%
FOV (degrees)
8.6
10%
Camera adjustability (degrees)
N/S
10%
Max memory card capacity (GB)
9.2
10%
GPS
10.0
7%
Camera Mount Type
N/S
3%
Altitude hold
10.0
Spy / Surveillance
8.9
X
What it is: The drone is going to be used as a quiet surveillance device. We were targeting on those with great camera specifications (Live View quality in particular), impressive control distance, and additional handy features, such as GPS or Obstacle Detection.
Score components:
20%
Live View (FPV) Quality
N/S
15%
Video Resolution + FPS
8.0
10%
FOV (degrees)
8.6
9%
Camera adjustability (degrees)
N/S
8%
Flight time (min)
7.2
7%
Max memory card capacity (GB)
9.2
5%
Control distance (meters)
7.6
5%
GPS
10.0
3%
GLONASS
N/S
3%
Circle Fly
10.0
3%
Trajectory flight
N/S
3%
Return Home
10.0
2%
Protection Guards
N/S
2%
Obstacle Detection
N/S
2%
Altitude hold
10.0
2%
Smartphone controlled
10.0
1%
Galileo
N/S
Geographic mapping
8.8
X
What it is: The device will be used for mapping and surveying. Ideally, it’s a specifically designated device with weatherproof construction, great camera and suitable software. However, more simple models can be used for casual hiking, for instance.
Score components:
15%
Video Resolution + FPS
8.0
10%
Photo Resolution (Mp)
8.8
10%
Live View (FPV) Quality
N/S
10%
Flight time (min)
7.2
7%
Control distance (meters)
7.6
5%
FOV (degrees)
8.6
5%
Camera adjustability (degrees)
N/S
5%
Max height (meters)
7.8
5%
GPS
10.0
5%
Trajectory flight
N/S
4%
Obstacle Detection
N/S
3%
Circle Fly
10.0
3%
Altitude hold
10.0
3%
GLONASS
N/S
3%
Operating temperature range (C)
10.0
2%
Protection Guards
N/S
2%
Return Home
10.0
2%
Max wind speed resistance (m/s)
7.6
1%
Galileo
N/S
Racing
8.4
X
What it is: If you intend to use your drone for racing, it must be light, highly maneuverable, and fast, of course. These devices are also wind resistant and feature Protection Guards or Obstacle Detection function.
Score components:
30%
Max speed (km/h)
9.3
20%
Control distance (meters)
7.6
10%
Flight time (min)
7.2
10%
Max wind speed resistance (m/s)
7.6
5%
Max ascend speed (m/s)
8.6
5%
Max descend speed (m/s)
8.6
5%
Obstacle Detection
N/S
5%
Protection Guards
N/S
5%
Return Home
10.0
5%
Headless mode
N/S
Fishing
8.7
X
What it is: The product will be used for fishing. A high-quality camera with wide field of view is required in the first place. Also, the device must be ultra-quiet and feature an extra-long control distance.
Score components:
15%
Live View (FPV) Quality
N/S
11%
Control distance (meters)
7.6
10%
FOV (degrees)
8.6
10%
Flight time (min)
7.2
10%
Video Resolution + FPS
8.0
7%
GPS
10.0
5%
Camera adjustability (degrees)
N/S
5%
Max height (meters)
7.8
3%
Max wind speed resistance (m/s)
7.6
3%
Circle Fly
10.0
3%
Return Home
10.0
3%
Obstacle Detection
N/S
3%
GLONASS
N/S
3%
Operating temperature range (C)
10.0
3%
Charging time (min)
8.8
2%
Trajectory flight
N/S
2%
Altitude hold
10.0
2%
Smartphone controlled
10.0
Hunting
8.7
X
What it is: The drone’s going to be used for hunting purposes. It must be extra-quiet and compact, as well as have a powerful, high-capacity battery. The case must be sturdy, operate at low temperatures, and withstand all weather elements.
Score components:
13%
Live View (FPV) Quality
N/S
12%
FOV (degrees)
8.6
11%
Control distance (meters)
7.6
10%
Flight time (min)
7.2
10%
Video Resolution + FPS
8.0
7%
GPS
10.0
5%
Camera adjustability (degrees)
N/S
5%
Max height (meters)
7.8
3%
Max wind speed resistance (m/s)
7.6
3%
Circle Fly
10.0
3%
Return Home
10.0
3%
Obstacle Detection
N/S
3%
GLONASS
N/S
3%
Operating temperature range (C)
10.0
3%
Charging time (min)
8.8
2%
Trajectory flight
N/S
2%
Altitude hold
10.0
2%
Smartphone controlled
10.0
Fun
9.0
X
What it is: Drones used for fun must feature a wide array of additional functionality – such as a 360° flip, Voice and Gesture control, RGB lights, and Protection Guards/Obstacle Detection.
Score components:
10%
Flight time (min)
7.2
10%
Charging time (min)
8.8
10%
Follow me
10.0
10%
Circle Fly
10.0
10%
360° flip
N/S
6%
Control distance (meters)
7.6
5%
Max speed (km/h)
9.3
5%
Obstacle Detection
N/S
5%
Trajectory flight
N/S
5%
Voice control
N/S
5%
Gesture control
N/S
5%
Headless mode
N/S
5%
Altitude hold
10.0
3%
Max height (meters)
7.8
3%
Protection Guards
N/S
3%
Return Home
10.0
Why did it make our list?
Waterproof drone and radio control
The Return to Home mode
4K 30fps video and 12MP photo
Includes 6 programmed flight modes
New Firmware
2 years warranty
What is not ideal about it?
Its battery run-time of just 17 minutes could be improved upon
Thanks to its image quality and waterproofing, the Spry+ is our Best Value Pick. The Spry+ camera incorporates the Sony 1/2.3” sensor for Pro images in 4K 30fps format or photos in 12 Mpx. The camera is protected by a polycarbonate dome of optical design and the image stabilization is electronic. With a flight time of 17 minutes, you can realize your most beautiful aquatic images. It is controlled using a radio control over a distance of 800m. You can also keep an eye on your shots with the built-in screen and 5.8Ghz video feedback.
It’s a compact and portable drone that you can use almost anywhere, but especially above water. This drone and its remote control are waterproof. You can take off and land in the open sea, pond, lake or others. Sea shots for boats, kitesurfers, windsurfers are no longer impossible. The Spry+ integrates 6 programmed flight modes including pursuit mode by framing the subject at a defined distance and height regardless of the movement. We liked that the device has a very practical Tap to Fly mode, automatic takeoff, and autonomous navigation.
The RTH (Return to Home) mode will be triggered as on all drones in the event of loss of radio signal. And when you activate the ”Return to Home” mode, the Spry+ will come back to you even if you are on a moving boat. For managing your drone, you will need to download the Spry App to take full advantage of your Spry+.
What it is: For general purpose. The drone will be used on different occasions - mainly for taking photos and video recording. However, the model can also be used for geographic mapping, hunting and fishing or just for fun.
Why did it make our list?
The IP67 protection class
Can submerge for a short period of up to 1 meter in water for around 30 minutes
We liked that the camera has a Pro capture mode and supports RAW capture
Thermal imaging camera stabilized by a 2-axis gimbal
Camera has LED lighting
2-kilogram payload and PL1-S release system
Ideal for anglers and fishermen in particular
What is not ideal about it?
The picture quality and battery life could be better
SwellPro is renowned for making the best drones for fishing with the SplashDrone 3 the benchmark for many years. But this time around, our best waterproof drone for fishing is the SplashDrone 4. With the SplashDrone 4 Fisherman Bundle, the manufacturer Swellpro launched a new generation of its waterproof drone. The SplashDrone is a multifunctional copter system that can be used not only for hobby but also for professional applications. In addition to IP67 protection class or a transmission range of 5 kilometers, the drone comes with a maximum payload capacity of two kilograms, 30 minutes flight time, and various RTH functions.
The drone is designed specifically for fishing. You can opt for the drone dropping system, for example, to use the drone for fishing and angling. This is the fifth generation of the waterproof Swellpro drone. As usual, the manufacturer primarily wants to serve professionals who need a particularly robust, durable, and versatile drone.
The drone can also be used in saltwater. The internal electronics have been given a corrosion-free coating, especially for this purpose to be able to guarantee ideal protection against corrosion from saltwater. So if you want to use a drone in the area of water or other humid environments, you can rely on the SplashDrone 4’s durability.
The drone can be used in rain, snow, and fog without hesitation. Not only the drone but also the supplied remote control is almost waterproof with IP66 protection class and at least against heavy splashing. This makes the SplashDrone 4 particularly interesting for water sports enthusiasts, fishermen, and anglers.
What it is: For general purpose. The drone will be used on different occasions - mainly for taking photos and video recording. However, the model can also be used for geographic mapping, hunting and fishing or just for fun.
What makes it stand out?
4 hours of battery run-time
4K camera resolution and 12 MP photo
Includes VR goggles, fishfinder, and hard case
High camera quality
Includes a 64 gigabyte SD card
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
Protective grille for motor could be included
Control via smartphone is quite cumbersome
Need a drone that can work completely submerged underwater? The PowerVision Powerray is one of the best underwater drones on the market. The PowerRay underwater drone is equipped with a 35mm lens 4K UHD camera. This provides outstanding underwater images and videos.
The recordings can be easily transferred to smartphones with Android or iOS and an FPV headset is included, which we really appreciate. You can use it to view, record images, or livestream. Meanwhile, if you want to venture into virtual reality drone flying, you also may want to consider and compare some other brands to pick the best FPV drones.
The PowerVision drone is ideal for anglers that want a little more than a fish finder. This underwater drone is equally ideal for divers for whom a diving depth of 30 m is sufficient. A PowerSeeker fish finder is simply attached to your fishing line and thrown in the water. This allows a lot of helpful data to be collected about our underwater world, from the water depth to water temperature or size and water depth of fish.
What it is: For general purpose. The drone will be used on different occasions - mainly for taking photos and video recording. However, the model can also be used for geographic mapping, hunting and fishing or just for fun.
What makes it special?
1080p camera and lighting for exploration
Compact and portable for travels
It's small, smart, and affordable
Comes in ready-to-run design
Can be used in saltwater, but needs rinsing
Has a small floating WiFi Buoy that lets you stream to the world
What cons did we find?
The video quality in uncalm water could be better
Some "bells and whistles" can be added
Chasing Dory is an underwater drone for use in calm waters and up to a depth of 15 meters. Selling for half the price of many waterproof drones, this is our budget pick. It is controlled wirelessly via the free app on your mobile device. You can be a maximum of 50 meters away from the GPS WiFi buoy, which is responsible for establishing the connection and determining your location.
Compact and portable, the drone is ideal for traveling. It’s ideal for fishing even in saltwater. But don’t forget to rinse it when done. It has a brushed motor that impresses above all with its simple design and the resulting ease of maintenance. Drones with brushed motors are significantly cheaper to buy than those with a brushless motor. The model is ready to use right out of the box. You get a complete package with a pre-assembled model, compatible transmitter, battery, and charger. Due to the easy handling, this type is ideal for entry into the world of model sports.
Things to Consider
Drones have been created due to the needs of the film industry. Formerly, they used small planes or helicopters for complex shots. However, today it is much easier and more comfortable thanks to drones. But the conventional models aren’t so ideal for when it’s raining or for water area or underwater use. This paved way for the invention of waterproof and even underwater drones. By following our buying guide, you are guaranteed to make the right decision!
Type and IP Ratings of Drones
There are various types of waterproof drones. First, the water-resistant models with IP 1 to 3 are only water-resistant; that is, they can only resist slight splashes of water and can be used when there’s a drizzle. You can’t submerge them in water, however. Completely waterproof drones are submersible and have a protection class of up to IP6 to IP9.
Wired underwater drones cannot fly but can be used from your boat or poolside to capture the water floor or environment. There are also completely wireless underwater drones too. Meanwhile, some drones can fly in the rain or snow and also land on water.
Before shelling out the money for a waterproof drone, there are perhaps a few basic features that should be considered. The waterproof drones are, as the name might not suggest, completely waterproof. Depending on the protection class, the housing is better or worse sealed – with splash water protection, for example, water can get inside if the drone is underwater. This then causes damage to the control programs. But other drones can also be used underwater. We have listed the most important protection classes in a way that is easy to understand:
Protection class IP0: Not protected from water at all. Protection class IP1 – IP3: Only very slight protection against water (in light rain ok). Protection class IP4 – IP6: Good protection – even the rain or a storm will not be damaging. Protection class IP7 – IP8: Submarine protection: Here water immersion is possible! Protection class IP9: Do you want to explore the bottom of the deep sea with your drone? No problem!
Features to Consider Before You Buy a Drone
Before making a decision, always check the specs, item description, and user reviews of a particular model to see if it is truly waterproof or just water-resistant. Also, be sure to check if the waterproof quadcopter is designed for fresh or saltwater and can safely land on the water surface. Check the flight time possible with the battery. More on this in the following:
Flight Time
Just like any other standard drone, your waterproof quadcopter needs to have a good range and flight time. This can vary significantly from model to model and depends on two things: battery capacity and controller range.
Depending on the model you choose, the flight time can range from 10 minutes to as much as 4 hours in some models such as the PowerVision PRW10. However, the average is around 30 minutes, as offered by the SwellPRO SplashDrone 4 and the PowerEgg X Wizard.
Please note however that this can also be affected by external factors. For example, if your drone is carrying weight or has to fight strong winds or rain, the flight time will be greatly reduced.
Underwater drones work similarly to their colleagues from the air in terms of battery capacity. The PowerVision PowerRay Drone can make an hour at full speed. By slowing down, battery life can be extended up to 4 hours.
Control Distance and Height
The control distance and height are determined by a couple of features. Wired underwater drones cannot go so far, obviously because of the limitations caused by the cable. The PowerVision PRW10 cannot go beyond 90 meters. However, flying waterproof drones can reach thousands of meters of distance up in the air. For example, the SwellPRO SplashDrone 4 can reach 5,000 meters of maximum flight height for which they’re also controllable.
Camera
The camera is a very important purchase criterion. The quality of your videos and photos in the air will depend on it. The most professional models give us 1080p or even 4K UHD and 60 FPS for perfect films and photos quality. Some models such as the PowerEgg X Wizard even comes with extra camera technology such as artificial intelligence camera features (face recognition and automatic tracking)
Flight Modes and Speed
This criterion is essential if you are looking for more professional and safe use of your drone. Now almost all drones have built-in smart flight and auto-return functions. The auto-return mode is termed Return to Home (which is important should you lose control of the drone, or the battery goes down). The Pursuit mode or Follow Me mode is another great flight mode to watch out for.
Size and Weight
This criterion is important for several reasons. First of all, the weight and size of the drone will affect its transport and storage. Second, they will also affect the type of camera, as some specific cameras can be large and heavy. Finally, depending on the weight of the drone, one regulation or another will be applied. As we have already seen, if drones weighing more than 55 pounds (25 kg) are involved, an airworthiness certificate will be required.
Accessories Included
Depending on the brand, the price, and the kind of profession the drones are made for, waterproof drones come with different accessories. And we aren’t talking about essential accessories such as the batteries or extra propellers.
Some models come with VR goggles, fish finder, carrying case, or even wireless buoys for transmitting the images and videos captured.
Price Range
Depending on various features, waterproof drones are sold in different price ranges. In general, the price ranges from $200 to $2,500 and more. Some wired underwater drones and flying drones with water resistance are sold for an entry-level price of $150 to $500. However, good quality flying drones with waterproof design start from around $1,000 to $2,500, and more. Meanwhile, if you want to stick to drones that don’t cost a lot, you may compare the best drones under $2000.
Warranty
Warranty coverage is always a must for drones because they’re usually expensive. Good coverage for these drones ranges from 1 to 3 years of warranty.
Underwater drones are often restricted to use in water. Most don’t have propellers for flying. However, some models can fly and then land on water. But we are also beginning to see waterproof drones that can both fly and film under water. Hopefully, in the next few years, we’d get to see more of these models.
You can use a waterproof drone in the pool, beach, and for finding fish. You can also use a waterproof drone in the rain, snow, wind, and both in fresh and saltwater. If the waterproof drone is used in saltwater/seawater, then it should be rinsed clean with plenty of fresh water after each use.
Our Verdict
From water-resistant to completely waterproofed underwater drones and the flying drones, there are various types of waterproof drones for every budget and every photography use.
One of the best waterproof drones on the market and our Editor’s Choice is the PowerEgg X Waterproof Drone. It comes with a Deep Learning AI camera, SyncVoice, and Deep Learning, which leave conventional flying drones far behind!
Thanks to its image quality and waterproofing, the Swellpro Spry+ Plus Waterproof Drone is our Best Value Pick. Its camera incorporates the Sony 1/2.3” sensor for professional images in 4K 30fps format or photos in 12 Mpx.
The UNDERWATER drone: $765 gadget can submerge , float like a boat and fly through the air at 40mph | Daily Mail Online
The $765 (£585) gadget, known as Spry, features a built-in 4K camera that can both record video and snap photos on the fly. It was developed by Florida firm Urban Drones.
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