Types of drones and their advantages and disadvantages

Types of drones and their advantages and disadvantages

What are the main types of drones and their pros and cons?

Drones are unmanned aerial machines that can be controlled remotely. They can also move autonomously when set to the corresponding mode. Their compact shape, high-tech cameras and multitude of features make them attractive to hobbyists and professionals alike.

In the future, these amazing machines are expected to evolve more and more. Proof of their rapid proliferation is that their sales reached from 2.5 million in 2016 to 7 million in 2020 - a whole 180% increase.

Every year, we can see new and new models appearing, with even the expression "bird's eye view shot" immediately making us think of drone filming.

While there are no strict classifications for the different types of drones, we will divide them into 3 main types. We will look at the advantages and disadvantages of each type and where they are most commonly used.

Main types of drones and their application

1. Fixed-wing drone

This type of drone is very similar to an airplane because it has one fixed wing. Unlike drones with spinning propellers, those with fixed wings cannot hover in the air. Instead, they must be flown forward, pushing the air out - similar to scooping when swimming. That doesn't make them as applicable as drones with spinning propellers.

Their broadest application is related to achieving military objectives, mostly when using an aircraft is too risky or difficult. Not infrequently, these drones are also used in the commercial industry.

Advantages:

The most impressive thing about these drones is the flight time, which averages around 16 hours. With the use of a gas engine, it is even possible for the machine to continue flying for longer. Also, fixed-wing drones are more massive and stable, so they can carry heavier loads and soar to greater heights.

Disadvantages:

Several disadvantages make these drones mainly applicable in a narrow range of spheres. They are more expensive than others and require special training to operate. With most models, a special rig must be used to get the device airborne. Both take-off and landing are more difficult. Last but not least, fixed-wing drones only move forward and do not stay in the air.

Main applications:

The main areas where fixed-wing drones are used are aerial mapping, inspection, agriculture, construction, security and surveillance.

2. Single rotor drones

Their robustness and stable design characterize Single-engine drones, closely resembling modern helicopters. They are lifted into the air by a single large propeller that rotates above the main body. At the rear, which resembles a tail, there is a small rotor by which the machine is stabilized and guided.

Advantages:

Single-rotor drones are very durable and robust and have a long flight time. If a gas engine is used, the flight time can be extended. Due to their construction they can transport heavy loads. The rotating rotors allow the machine to stay in the air and make various manoeuvres.

Disadvantages:

Unlike multi-rotor drones, single-rotor drones are more difficult to control as they are more complexly built. Their heavy spinning blades can be dangerous, so care must be taken when steering. Due to the complex design of these drones, their price may be higher.

Main uses:

Exploration, aerial scanning, surveying.

3. Multirotor drones

These are the most common types of drones that both hobbyists and professionals use. They are easily portable due to their compact size and low weight and are much more affordable for users.

Drones can have different numbers of rotors. There are tricopters (3 rotors), quadcopters (4 rotors), hexacopters (6 rotors) and octocopters (8 rotors), among others. Of all these, quadcopters are the most popular.

Advantages:

Multi-rotor drones are easy to control, with quadcopters being suitable for use by absolute beginner pilots. There are also drone models for children.

Multi-rotor drones are very maneuverable and can easily stay in the air or move in the pilot's desired direction. Landing can be done without a pre-positioned device or pad.

Disadvantages:

A major disadvantage of multi-rotor drones is less flight time. Currently, the longest flight time is 30-40 minutes. The cargo they can carry is still quite limited. In inclement weather and high winds, batteries drain faster.

Main applications:

Aerial photography and video inspection, entertainment, agriculture, construction, security.

Find the right drone for you

Now when you know more about the main types of drones, you can choose yours and start your exciting aerial journey.

At COPTER.BG you will find the best DJI drones at a good price. Our team is at your disposal if you need professional advice. You can contact us online or in person at our showroom.