Christmas is just around the corner, and with it comes the annual scramble for the perfect gifts. But what do you get for the drone pilot in your life? They might already have their trusty quadcopter, or maybe looking to start. Fear not, fellow gift-givers! There's a whole world of accessories, gadgets, and experiences that will make any drone enthusiast's holiday truly soar. In this post, we'll dive into some fantastic gift ideas that are sure to bring joy and excitement to the drone pilot on your list.
Ready to Fly Kits
Ready to Fly Kits are great for someone that’s looking to get into flying drones. As the name suggests they include everything you need to get started in the hobby, for FPV that means the aircraft, goggles, a controller, battery (or batteries) and a charger. They are aimed at beginners and so they come in easy to use and fly packages. This gives the pilot a good foundation to build their flying abilities and upgrade later. Here are our recommendations for low cost entry level Ready to Fly kits :
EMAX Tinyhawk III Plus
This RTF kit has absolutely everything you need to get flying including batteries, a charger, and a remote. This quad is based on ELRS meaning if you decide to build or buy a larger drone in the future you can bind the radio with it if it supports the same iteration of ELRS. EMAX Tinyhawk III Plus RTF Analog Version (ELRS) – EpicFPV
EMAX Tinyhawk III Plus Freestyle
The Tinyhawk series from EMAX has been a staple in the hobby for years, the Freestyle version is made of robust and long-lasting carbon fiber and can handle those unavoidable crashes. Additionally, the RTF versions of the Tinyhawk have been and continue to be extremely easy to use! This analog version is an excellent budget friendly starter kit for those looking to get started with FPV! EMAX Tinyhawk III Plus Freestyle Analog RTF Kit – EpicFPV
DarwinFPV BabyApe Pro V2 RTF Bundle
The newly released BabyApe Pro V2 has been a popular choice among pilots, thanks to its numerous upgrades based on valuable customer feedback. The frame now features upgraded aluminum alloy standoffs, providing increased strength and stability, as well as a receiver bracket. DarwinFPV BabyApe Pro V2 RTF Bundle – EpicFPV
DJI Neo Fly More Combo
DJI Neo, the perfect drone for travellers. Capture amazing photos and videos on the go with Neo's 4K camera and built in 22 GB of storage. With Neo, getting stunning photos and video on the go has never been easier. DJI Neo Fly More Combo – EpicFPV
Chargers and charger accessories
If the person you’re shopping for already has a complete setup, a charger or accessories are always useful. When shopping for accessories, you have to make sure you’re choosing the right version. There are tons of connectors chargers use, so here’s how you can tell them apart.
The XT series of connectors is the most popular in FPV aircrafts. You can tell them apart by reading the marking on the connector (XT30, XT60, XT90). This will let you know which one to buy and which one will be compatible.
For smaller drones, the connectors are different, The most popular are PH2.0, BT2.0 and GNB A30. They are very distinct in shape and size and so will be easier to identify. Quick note, the GNB A30 and BT2.0 connector are cross compatible!
Photo Credit: https://oscarliang.com/micro-battery-connectors-testing/
That said, here are some chargers and charger accessories that would make amazing gifts:
GensAce Imars III PRO 10A Smart Balance RC Battery Charger
GensAce Imars III Pro 10A Smart Balance Charger, capable of 10 amp charge rates, worldwide 100V-240V voltage versatility, with 100 Watts of power. It is great to charge your FPV & Car Batteries. GensAce Imars III PRO 10A Smart Balance RC Battery Charger – EpicFPV
ISDT BG-8S Battery Meter/Checker
This ISDT BG-8S can be used to check cell voltages of a variety of batteries and supports Lipo batteries up to 8S. Allowing you to quickly verify your battery health and status. ISDT BG-8S Battery Meter/Checker – EpicFPV
BT2.0 Connector 1S Lipo Charger Board & Adapter
Compact, versatile, and powerful, the battery charger board is among the most popular pilots' common tools. This charger board is customized for BT2.0 connector battery, while it is safe and easily charging packs. BT2.0 Connector 1S Lipo Charger Board & Adapter – EpicFPV
RunCam Battery Bag
Keep your batteries and home safe with this LIPO bag from RunCam. RunCam Battery Bag – EpicFPV
Action cameras
Recording flights is a big part of FPV flight, so action cameras are great to get high quality recordings :
Flywoo Naked GoPro 12
The Flywoo Naked GoPro 12 V2.1 takes the loved GoPro 12 and strips it down to a bare-bones configuration, substantially reducing weight. The Naked GoPro 12 from Flywoo is ideal for tiny FPV quads or any builds that are trying to stay light weight! Flywoo Naked GoPro 12 – EpicFPV
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro - The latest and greatest action camera from DJI. The Action 5 Pro is ideal for those always outdoors and exploring. The Action 5 Pro is ready to record with you and capture amazing photos and videos on the go. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro – EpicFPV
RunCam Thumb 2
The RunCam Thumb 2 has arrived. This tiny action camera delivers amazing footage at an excellent price! RunCam Thumb 2 – EpicFPV
Accessories
Whether for building or maintaining aircrafts, toolkits and accessories are necessary. Here’s a few useful ones :
Sequre S60P Soldering Iron Kit
Take your soldering game to the next level with the S60P kit from Sequre. This kit includes a S60P soldering iron and four soldering tips ideal for various applications, such as ESC motor pads, battery wires, and flight controller and receiver wiring. Sequre S60P Soldering Iron Kit W/K+I+IS+BC1 Tips – EpicFPV
Sequre ES555 Smart Electric Screwdriver Kit
With the ES555 motorized screwdriver from Sequre, fixing and building your drones and FPV accessories is easier than ever. This kit includes the screwdriver, a charging cable, and a bit set with the most common bits seen across small electronics and the RC hobby! Sequre ES555 Smart Electric Screwdriver Kit – EpicFPV
FlyFishRC Tool Kit
This tool kit from Flyfish RC is essentially a mini workshop to go, and contains virtually all tools needed to build and repair FPV quads! FlyFishRC Tool Kit - 9PCS – EpicFPV
Ethix Build Mat
The Ethix Build Mat, this is something Mr Steele, Konasty, and SweepwingsRC of the “Team Failsafe Podcast” have been teasing about for years now. The build mat is finally here and offers a robust surface to make your workspace that much more inviting. Ethix Build Mat – EpicFPV
As we've explored, the world of drone piloting offers a wealth of possibilities, from beginner-friendly kits to advanced accessories and even exhilarating experiences. Whether your gift recipient is just starting their aerial journey or is a seasoned pilot looking to upgrade their setup, there's a perfect present waiting to be discovered. Remember, the most important thing is to choose something that reflects their individual interests and flying style. So, get ready to spread some holiday cheer and watch their eyes light up as they unwrap a gift that takes them to new heights!