Drones under 250g – The best mini drones 2024

Drones under 250g are in great demand. This is because drones in this weight class are subject to fewer rules. They can therefore be flown with fewer restrictions and more easily in many areas. We provide you with an overview of the best mini drones under 250g as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Overview of drones under 250g

The following list contains what we consider to be the best drones under 250g in 2023/2024 that also have a camera. The advantages of these models and further information on the regulations that apply to this drone weight class can be found in the sections following the overview.

Our recommendation

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The budget solution for a taster

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Other recommended mini drones

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Please note: The following refers to the DJI Mini 3 and DJI Mini 3 PRO. The PRO version is technically superior to the normal Mini 3. The Mini 3 (not Pro) is also linked here as the Fly More Combo version with additional accessories, while the Mini 3 Pro is linked in the standard version. So pay attention to this when buying. Even if you order outside of Amazon.

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Advantages of drones under 250g

The weight of 250 grams is important for drones. In the EU drone regulation, it defines a decisive limit.

Drones that do not exceed this limit benefit from relaxed regulations regarding the requirements for drone pilots and flights in residential areas or close to people.

Drone manufacturers have of course recognised this and offer a range of drones weighing less than 250g, which offer the following advantages:

• No drone licence required
• Flight in sub-category A1 possible. This means:
  • Flight near people possible
  • Flight in residential areas possible
  • see the EU drone regulation
  • observe local flight restrictions!

Disadvantages of drones under 250g

However, the low weight means that the small drone models have to make compromises in terms of the technology used. Compared to their larger counterparts, some functions are often missing. This is simply necessary to keep the weight as low as possible.

Smaller models are also more susceptible to strong winds. Mini drones are now also capable of considerable performance. However, there are noticeable differences compared to their larger siblings.

What do I have to consider for drones under 250g?

Even though drones in this weight class are subject to a number of exemptions, there are still rules and laws to be observed for drones under 250g. The most important points that drone pilots need to know:

• Registration as a drone operator required
• Attachment of a drone licence plate required
• Insurance is compulsory

This means that owners of a mini drone must also register as a drone operator with the competent authority. In Germany, this is possible at the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt(LBA); in Austria, Austro Control is responsible for this.

Registration also requires a drone licence plate with the drone operator’s registration number (eID) to be affixed.

The existing insurance obligation is also particularly important. Contrary to what many people mistakenly believe, appropriate insurance is also required by law for the small drone category.

💡In our linked guide, we explain whichpoints you should generally consider before buying a drone and which questions you should answer in advance.

Where am I allowed to fly drones under 250g?

As mentioned above, drones weighing less than 250g may generally be flown in the A1 sub-category of the Open category. This allows flights in residential areas and close to uninvolved people. This is the sub-category with the least restrictions, which makes mini drones particularly interesting.

The linked article provides general information on the topic of Where can I fly my drone?

FAQ drones under 250g