OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Drones Methodology v2.0
Drones Methodology v2.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontumo Drones Methodology v2.0: technical specifications plus grades from 1,023 independent expert reviews and 2,622 video reviews, with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Drones Methodology v2.0

HOVERAir X1 Review | 97 Data compared

Avg. price:~£290Max flight time:11.5 minVideo resolution:2.7K/30 fpsMax transmission distance:0.05 km

HOVERAir X1 Review: Compare 97 technical specifications and 54 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Drones category and whether it is worth buying.

5.7

Overall score

Score
5.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the drone's quality, based on technical analyses and grades from independent expert reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best drones on the market.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 69% of models
Score components

85%

5.3

Technical score

15%

8.3

Review score ( 21 · 33)

Review score 15% · 8.3 · based on 54 independent reviews
Every model in this category gets the same split: reviews 15%, technical score 85%. This model has enough reviews, so its review score is the weighted average of their grades. 1 more review is not scored yet.
▼Worse than 69% of drones
5.3

Technical score

Technical score
5.3/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the drone's technical performance, covering key areas such as flight performance, camera quality, transmission, safety features, battery life, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare drones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 72% of models
Score components

26%

3.3

Flight

24%

5.8

Camera

20%

5.2

Safety

16%

6.1

Connectivity

14%

7.1

Battery & Design

▼Worse than 72% of drones
8.3

Review score

Review score
8.3/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 15% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 4 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 68% of models
Grades by review (54)
21 reviews: 9 with a printed score, 12 estimated from the review. 33 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 15%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 6
✓ explicit
4

3.3%

10

t3.com

3.3%

9.0

digitalcameraworld.com

3.3%

8.0

techradar.com

3.3%

8.0

techgearlab.com

≈ estimated
2

2.6%

9.0

adventuremotorcycle.com

2.6%

8.0

packandtrail.com

Video reviews 9

1.3%

9.5

Roo's Reviews

1.3%

9.0

ManShed

1.3%

9.0

TK Bay

1.3%

9.0

DC Rainmaker

1.3%

9.0

Simon Horrocks

1.3%

8.0

Kai Vertigoh

1.3%

7.0

Otto Julian

1.3%

7.0

Learn Online Video

0.7%

9.0

Fresh and Felicia

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
▲Better than 68% of drones
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Best prices

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Best rankings

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of drone HOVERAir X1

Technical score
Technical score
5.3/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the drone's technical performance, covering key areas such as flight performance, camera quality, transmission, safety features, battery life, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare drones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 72% of models
Score components:

26%

3.3

Flight

24%

5.8

Camera

20%

5.2

Safety

16%

6.1

Connectivity

14%

7.1

Battery & Design

5.3
Review score
Review score
8.3/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 15% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 4 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 68% of models
Grades by review (54)
21 reviews: 9 with a printed score, 12 estimated from the review. 33 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 15%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 6
✓ explicit
4

3.3%

10

t3.com

3.3%

9.0

digitalcameraworld.com

3.3%

8.0

techradar.com

3.3%

8.0

techgearlab.com

≈ estimated
2

2.6%

9.0

adventuremotorcycle.com

2.6%

8.0

packandtrail.com

Video reviews 9

1.3%

9.5

Roo's Reviews

1.3%

9.0

ManShed

1.3%

9.0

TK Bay

1.3%

9.0

DC Rainmaker

1.3%

9.0

Simon Horrocks

1.3%

8.0

Kai Vertigoh

1.3%

7.0

Otto Julian

1.3%

7.0

Learn Online Video

0.7%

9.0

Fresh and Felicia

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
8.3
Popularity
Popularity
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the drone.
When it matters
When you prefer to choose a drone reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 78% of models
Popularity:
HOVERAir X1 has a popularity score of 9.1 points, which is higher than that of 77.7% of products in this category.
9.1
Value for money
Value for money
6.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the drone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a drone with a good balance between flight quality, camera features, and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▼ Worse than 76% of models
Score components:

60%

5.7

Overall score

40%

9.0

Price

6.7
Max flight time
11.5 min
Max flight time
11.5 min
▼ Worse than 80% of models
Market range: <8 min – >40 min
This drone has a max flight time of 11.5 min, shorter than 79.5% of drones.
Max flight distance
0.03 km
Max flight distance
0.03 km
▼ Worse than 98% of models
Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
This drone has a max flight distance of 0.03 km, shorter-range than 97.8% of drones and equal to 2.2% of drones.
Max flight speed
7 m/s
Max flight speed
7 m/s
▼ Worse than 65% of models
Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
This drone has a max flight speed of 7 m/s, slower than 65.2% of drones and equal to 5.7% of drones.
Max wind resistance
7.9 m/s
Max wind resistance
7.9 m/s
▼ Worse than 69% of models
Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
This drone has max wind resistance of 7.9 m/s, lower than 69.1% of drones and equal to 10.1% of drones.
Value may include conversion from Beaufort-scale rating to m/s.
Max service ceiling (ASL)
5,000 m
Max service ceiling (ASL)
5,000 m
▲ Better than 68% of models
Market range: <120 m – >6k m
This drone has a max service ceiling of 5,000 m, higher than 67.9% of drones and equal to 10.5% of drones.
Show more
What reviewers say
Video resolution
2.7K/30 fps
Video resolution
2.7K/30 fps
▼ Worse than 55% of models
This drone records video at 2.7K/30 fps, lower than 55% of drones and equal to 1.5% of drones.
4K camera
no
4K camera
no
▼ Worse than 55% of models
This drone does not support 4K video. 54.6% of drones support 4K video.
Sensor size
?
Main camera megapixels
12 MP
Main camera megapixels
12 MP
▼ Worse than 42% of models
Market range: <2 MP – >48 MP
This drone has a main camera resolution of 12 MP, higher than 41.3% of drones and equal to 16.7% of drones.
Max movie bitrate
32 Mbps
Max movie bitrate
32 Mbps
▼ Worse than 95% of models
Market range: <40 Mbps – >180 Mbps
This drone has a max movie bitrate of 32 Mbps, lower than 94.7% of drones and equal to 1.3% of drones.
Show more
What reviewers say
Obstacle detection
no
Obstacle detection
no
▼ Worse than 31% of models
This drone does not support obstacle detection. 31% of drones support obstacle detection.
Return to Home (RTH)
no
Return to Home (RTH)
no
▼ Worse than 68% of models
This drone does not support Return-to-Home (RTH). 67.5% of drones support Return-to-Home (RTH).
GPS
no
GPS
no
▼ Worse than 65% of models
This drone does not support GPS. 65.2% of drones support GPS.
GNSS systems supported
none
GNSS systems supported
none
▼ Worse than 66% of models
This drone supports none GNSS systems, which are less comprehensive than those of 65.8% and the same as those of 34.2%.
Obstacle sensing directions
downward
Obstacle sensing directions
downward
▲ Better than 57% of models
This drone senses obstacles in downward directions, which is more comprehensive than that of 57.3% and the same as that of 12.1%.
Only downward positioning sensing is confirmed on the base model.
Show more
What reviewers say
Max transmission distance
0.05 km
Max transmission distance
0.05 km
▼ Worse than 85% of models
Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
This drone has a max transmission distance of 0.05 km, shorter-range than 85.2% of drones and equal to 9.2% of drones.
Value reflects phone-app range; optional Beacon/controller accessories can extend it.
Transmission latency
?
Video transmission system
Wi-Fi
Video transmission system
Wi-Fi
▼ Worse than 44% of models
This drone uses Wi-Fi for video transmission, which is more advanced than the system used by 8.2% and the same as that used by 47.7%.
Live view quality
1080p@30 fps
Live view quality
1080p@30 fps
▲ Better than 61% of models
This drone offers live view quality of 1080p@30 fps, higher-quality than 60.9% of drones and equal to 18.8% of drones.
Remote control
yes
Remote control
yes
▲ Better than 5% of models
This drone has a handheld remote controller. 5% of drones offer this.
Show more
What reviewers say
Battery capacity
1,050 mAh
Battery capacity
1,050 mAh
▼ Worse than 78% of models
Market range: <550 mAh – >5k mAh
This drone has a battery capacity of 1,050 mAh, smaller than 78.2% of drones and equal to 0.5% of drones.
Battery energy
8.085 Wh
Battery energy
8.085 Wh
▼ Worse than 68% of models
Market range: <3.7 Wh – >77 Wh
This drone has battery energy of 8.085 Wh, lower than 68.2% of drones.
Charging time
55 min
Charging time
55 min
▲ Better than 89% of models
Market range: <55 min – >180 min
This drone charges in 55 min, faster than 89.4% of drones and equal to 1.3% of drones.
Weight
125 g
Weight
125 g
▲ Better than 80% of models
Market range: <80 g – >920 g
This drone weighs 125 g, lighter than 80.4% of drones and equal to 1% of drones.
Removable battery
yes
Removable battery
yes
▲ Better than 1% of models
This drone has a removable battery. 0.5% of drones have a removable battery.
Show more
What reviewers say

HOVERAir X1 vs the average drone

246810TotalFlightCameraSafetyConnectivityBattery & Design
  • More modern charging port
    Charging interface
    USB-C
    ▲ Better than 61% of models
    This drone uses USB-C for charging, while the average drone uses micro-USB.
    USB-C vs micro-USB
  • Supports QuickShots
    QuickShots
    yes
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    This drone supports QuickShots, while the average drone does not.
  • 35 min shorter charging time
    Charging time
    55 min
    ▲ Better than 89% of models
    Market range: <55 min – >180 min
    This drone charges faster than the average drone (55 min vs 90 min). The average drone charges in 90 min.
    55 min vs 90 min
  • 6 more flight modes
    N. of intelligent flight modes
    10
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    Market range: <0 – >8
    This drone offers more intelligent flight modes than the average drone (10 vs 4). The average drone offers 4 intelligent flight modes.
    Follow Me, POI, QuickShots, Hover, Dolly Track, Side Track, Indoor Follow, Ski Mode, Cycling Mode, CoPilot Mode
    10 vs 4
  • 32 GB more internal storage
    Internal storage
    32 GB
    ★ Better than 93% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >8 GB
    This drone has more internal storage than the average drone (32 GB vs 0 GB). The average drone has 0 GB of internal storage.
    32 GB vs 0 GB
  • 49.2% lower weight
    Weight
    125 g
    ▲ Better than 80% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >920 g
    This drone is lighter than the average drone (125 g vs 246 g). The average drone weighs 246 g.
    125 g vs 246 g
  • Includes propeller guards
    Propeller guards
    yes
    ▲ Better than 67% of models
    This drone has propeller guards, while the average drone does not. 33.3% of drones offer them.
  • Supports smartphone control
    Smartphone control
    yes
    ▲ Better than 50% of models
    This drone supports smartphone control, while the average drone does not.
  • 1,500 m higher service ceiling
    Max service ceiling (ASL)
    5,000 m
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    Market range: <120 m – >6k m
    This drone can fly at a higher max service ceiling than the average drone (5000 m vs 3500 m). The average drone reaches 3500 m.
    5,000 m vs 3,500 m
  • 32 GB more internal storage
    Internal storage
    32 GB
    ★ Better than 93% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >8 GB
    This drone has more internal storage than the average drone (32 GB vs 0 GB). The average drone has 0 GB of internal storage.
    32 GB vs 0 GB
  • More color profile options
    Color profiles
    Normal, Pro, Soft, Texture
    ▲ Better than 72% of models
    This drone supports Normal, Pro, Soft, Texture color profiles, while the average drone supports Normal.
    Normal, Pro, Soft, Texture vs Normal
  • Supports HDR mode
    HDR mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 72% of models
    This drone supports HDR mode, while the average drone does not.
  • 1 more gimbal axes
    Gimbal axes
    1
    ▲ Better than 55% of models
    Market range: <0 – >3
    This drone has more gimbal axes than the average drone (1 vs 0). The average drone has 0 gimbal axes.
    1 vs 0
  • Richer manual controls
    Manual camera controls
    partial
    ▲ Better than 52% of models
    This drone offers partial manual camera controls, while the average drone offers no.
    No shutter-speed control.
    partial vs no
  • More advanced stabilization
    Image stabilization type
    1-Axis Mechanical + EIS
    ▲ Better than 53% of models
    This drone uses 1-Axis Mechanical + EIS image stabilization, while the average drone uses EIS (Digital).
    1-Axis Mechanical + EIS vs EIS (Digital)
  • Supports burst mode
    Burst mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 61% of models
    This drone supports burst mode, while the average drone does not.
  • Supports panorama mode
    Panorama mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 54% of models
    This drone supports panorama mode, while the average drone does not.
  • Supports QuickShots
    QuickShots
    yes
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    This drone supports QuickShots, while the average drone does not.
  • 6 more flight modes
    N. of intelligent flight modes
    10
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    Market range: <0 – >8
    This drone offers more intelligent flight modes than the average drone (10 vs 4). The average drone offers 4 intelligent flight modes.
    Follow Me, POI, QuickShots, Hover, Dolly Track, Side Track, Indoor Follow, Ski Mode, Cycling Mode, CoPilot Mode
    10 vs 4
  • Includes propeller guards
    Propeller guards
    yes
    ▲ Better than 67% of models
    This drone has propeller guards, while the average drone does not. 33.3% of drones offer them.
  • Less restrictive EU class
    EU class marking
    C0
    ▲ Better than 79% of models
    This drone is rated as C0 under the EU drone class system, while the average drone is rated as None.
    C0 vs None
  • Supports smartphone control
    Smartphone control
    yes
    ▲ Better than 50% of models
    This drone supports smartphone control, while the average drone does not.
  • Better live view quality
    Live view quality
    1080p@30 fps
    ▲ Better than 61% of models
    This drone has better live view quality than the average drone (1080p@30 fps vs 1080p@25 fps). The average drone offers live view quality of 1080p@25 fps.
    1080p@30 fps vs 1080p@25 fps
  • More modern charging port
    Charging interface
    USB-C
    ▲ Better than 61% of models
    This drone uses USB-C for charging, while the average drone uses micro-USB.
    USB-C vs micro-USB
  • 35 min shorter charging time
    Charging time
    55 min
    ▲ Better than 89% of models
    Market range: <55 min – >180 min
    This drone charges faster than the average drone (55 min vs 90 min). The average drone charges in 90 min.
    55 min vs 90 min
  • 49.2% lower weight
    Weight
    125 g
    ▲ Better than 80% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >920 g
    This drone is lighter than the average drone (125 g vs 246 g). The average drone weighs 246 g.
    125 g vs 246 g
  • 32.5 mm lower body height
    Height
    30 mm
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <38 mm – >120 mm
    This drone is shorter than the average drone (30 mm vs 62.5 mm). The average drone is 62.5 mm tall.
    Folded height: 31 mm.
    30 mm vs 62.5 mm
  • 148 mm shorter body length
    Length
    127 mm
    ▲ Better than 88% of models
    Market range: <117 mm – >385 mm
    This drone is shorter than the average drone (127 mm vs 275 mm). The average drone is 275 mm long.
    127 mm vs 275 mm
  • 96 mm narrower width
    Width
    145 mm
    ▲ Better than 83% of models
    Market range: <114 mm – >387.5 mm
    This drone is narrower than the average drone (145 mm vs 241 mm). The average drone width is 241 mm.
    145 mm vs 241 mm
  • Fewer GNSS systems
    GNSS systems supported
    none
    ▼ Worse than 66% of models
    This drone supports none GNSS systems, while the average drone supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
    none vs GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
  • Lower video resolution
    Video resolution
    2.7K/30 fps
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    This drone offers lower video resolution than the average drone (2.7K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps). The average drone offers a video resolution of 4K/100 fps.
    2.7K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps
  • 2.8 m/s lower wind resistance
    Max wind resistance
    7.9 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 69% of models
    Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
    This drone handles weaker wind than the average drone (7.9 m/s vs 10.7 m/s). The average drone handles wind up to 10.7 m/s.
    Value may include conversion from Beaufort-scale rating to m/s.
    7.9 m/s vs 10.7 m/s
  • More basic transmission system
    Video transmission system
    Wi-Fi
    ▼ Worse than 44% of models
    This drone uses Wi-Fi for video transmission, while the average drone uses SkyLink 2.0.
    Wi-Fi vs SkyLink 2.0
  • No return-to-home (RTH)
    Return to Home (RTH)
    no
    ▼ Worse than 68% of models
    This drone does not support return-to-home (RTH), while the average drone does.
  • No GPS
    GPS
    no
    ▼ Worse than 65% of models
    This drone does not have GPS, while the average drone does.
  • 8.5 min shorter flight time
    Max flight time
    11.5 min
    ▼ Worse than 80% of models
    Market range: <8 min – >40 min
    This drone offers shorter max flight time than the average drone (11.5 min vs 20 min). The average drone offers 20 min of max flight time.
    11.5 min vs 20 min
  • 8 m/s slower flight speed
    Max flight speed
    7 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 65% of models
    Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
    This drone reaches a lower max flight speed than the average drone (7 m/s vs 15 m/s). The average drone reaches 15 m/s.
    7 m/s vs 15 m/s
  • 5.3% worse value for money
    HOVERAir X1 has worse value for money than the average drone (6.7 vs 7.1).
    6.7 vs 7.06
  • 2.8 m/s lower wind resistance
    Max wind resistance
    7.9 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 69% of models
    Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
    This drone handles weaker wind than the average drone (7.9 m/s vs 10.7 m/s). The average drone handles wind up to 10.7 m/s.
    Value may include conversion from Beaufort-scale rating to m/s.
    7.9 m/s vs 10.7 m/s
  • 8.5 min shorter flight time
    Max flight time
    11.5 min
    ▼ Worse than 80% of models
    Market range: <8 min – >40 min
    This drone offers shorter max flight time than the average drone (11.5 min vs 20 min). The average drone offers 20 min of max flight time.
    11.5 min vs 20 min
  • 8 m/s slower flight speed
    Max flight speed
    7 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 65% of models
    Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
    This drone reaches a lower max flight speed than the average drone (7 m/s vs 15 m/s). The average drone reaches 15 m/s.
    7 m/s vs 15 m/s
  • 0.97 km shorter flight distance
    Max flight distance
    0.03 km
    ▼ Worse than 98% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
    This drone has a shorter max flight distance than the average drone (0 km vs 1 km). The average drone can fly up to 1 km.
    0.03 km vs 1 km
  • 2.5 m/s slower descent speed
    Max descent speed
    1.5 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 99% of models
    Market range: <2 m/s – >8 m/s
    This drone descends more slowly than the average drone (1.5 m/s vs 4 m/s). The average drone descends at 4 m/s.
    1.5 m/s vs 4 m/s
  • 3.5 m/s slower ascent speed
    Max ascent speed
    1.5 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 100% of models
    Market range: <3 m/s – >8 m/s
    This drone climbs more slowly than the average drone (1.5 m/s vs 5 m/s). The average drone climbs at 5 m/s.
    1.5 m/s vs 5 m/s
  • Lower video resolution
    Video resolution
    2.7K/30 fps
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    This drone offers lower video resolution than the average drone (2.7K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps). The average drone offers a video resolution of 4K/100 fps.
    2.7K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps
  • 68 Mbps lower video bitrate
    Max movie bitrate
    32 Mbps
    ▼ Worse than 95% of models
    Market range: <40 Mbps – >180 Mbps
    This drone supports a lower maximum video bitrate than the average drone (32 Mbps vs 100 Mbps). The average drone supports a maximum video bitrate of 100 Mbps.
    32 Mbps vs 100 Mbps
  • Narrower aperture
    Aperture
    f/2.4
    ▲ Better than 52% of models
    This drone has a narrower aperture than the average drone (f/2.4 vs f/2). The average drone uses an aperture of f/2.
    f/2.4 vs f/2
  • No memory card slot
    Memory card slot
    no
    ▼ Worse than 74% of models
    This drone does not have a memory card slot, while the average drone does.
  • No 4K video
    4K camera
    no
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    This drone does not support 4K video, while the average drone does.
  • 128 GB lower memory card limit
    Max external memory supported
    0 GB
    ▼ Worse than 76% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >512 GB
    This drone supports less external storage than the average drone (0 GB vs 128 GB). The average drone supports up to 128 GB of external storage.
    0 GB vs 128 GB
  • Lower photo resolution
    Photo resolution
    4000 x 3000 px
    ▲ Better than 52% of models
    This drone offers lower photo resolution than the average drone (4000x3000 px vs 4096x3072 px). The average drone offers a photo resolution of 4096x3072 px.
    4000x3000 px vs 4096x3072 px
  • Fewer GNSS systems
    GNSS systems supported
    none
    ▼ Worse than 66% of models
    This drone supports none GNSS systems, while the average drone supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
    none vs GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
  • No return-to-home (RTH)
    Return to Home (RTH)
    no
    ▼ Worse than 68% of models
    This drone does not support return-to-home (RTH), while the average drone does.
  • No GPS
    GPS
    no
    ▼ Worse than 65% of models
    This drone does not have GPS, while the average drone does.
  • 1.2 m worse hover accuracy
    Hover accuracy (horizontal)
    1.5 m
    ▼ Worse than 92% of models
    Market range: <0.3 m – >1.4 m
    This drone has worse horizontal hover accuracy than the average drone (1.5 m vs 0.3 m). The average drone has horizontal hover accuracy of 0.3 m.
    1.5 m vs 0.3 m
  • No compass
    Compass
    no
    ▼ Worse than 69% of models
    This drone does not have a compass, while the average drone does.
  • 5.56 m/s slower tracking speed
    Max subject tracking speed
    6.94 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 98% of models
    Market range: <8 m/s – >20 m/s
    This drone can track subjects at a lower speed than the average drone (6.9 m/s vs 12.5 m/s). The average drone tracks subjects at 12.5 m/s.
    6.94 m/s vs 12.5 m/s
  • No headless mode
    Headless mode
    no
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    This drone does not support headless mode, while the average drone does.
  • No beginner mode
    Beginner mode
    no
    ▼ Worse than 56% of models
    This drone does not support beginner mode, while the average drone does.
  • 49.8% higher takeoff weight
    Max takeoff weight
    125 g
    ▼ Worse than 84% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >1.1k g
    This drone has a higher max takeoff weight than the average drone (125 g vs 249 g). The average drone has a max takeoff weight of 249 g.
    125 g vs 249 g
  • More basic transmission system
    Video transmission system
    Wi-Fi
    ▼ Worse than 44% of models
    This drone uses Wi-Fi for video transmission, while the average drone uses SkyLink 2.0.
    Wi-Fi vs SkyLink 2.0
  • 0.95 km shorter transmission range
    Max transmission distance
    0.05 km
    ▼ Worse than 85% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
    This drone has a shorter max transmission distance than the average drone (0.1 km vs 1 km). The average drone reaches 1 km of transmission distance.
    Value reflects phone-app range; optional Beacon/controller accessories can extend it.
    0.05 km vs 1 km
  • 1,150 mAh less battery capacity
    Battery capacity
    1,050 mAh
    ▼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <550 mAh – >5k mAh
    This drone has a smaller battery capacity than the average drone (1050 mAh vs 2200 mAh). The average drone battery has a capacity of 2200 mAh.
    1,050 mAh vs 2,200 mAh
  • 9.1 Wh less battery energy
    Battery energy
    8.085 Wh
    ▼ Worse than 68% of models
    Market range: <3.7 Wh – >77 Wh
    This drone has lower battery energy than the average drone (8.1 Wh vs 17.18 Wh). The average drone battery has 17.18 Wh of energy.
    8.085 Wh vs 17.18 Wh
  • Plainer color finish
    Color
    black, white
    ▼ Worse than 78% of models
    This drone comes in black, white, while the average drone comes in gray.
    black, white vs gray

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

9.0
ManShed
≈ estimated
20/08/2024
Hands-on review · e-bike follow tests, wind and battery
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 suits simple everyday use better than pro footage, and wind and battery life limit it.
9.0
TK Bay
≈ estimated
17/07/2024
Hands-on review · modes, app, battery and footage
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is easy to fly and good enough for social media, but it has no obstacle sensing and short battery life.
8.0
Kai Vertigoh
≈ estimated
16/07/2024
Hands-on review · flight modes, camera and wind test
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a fun, light drone for beginners with real uses, though its camera options are limited.
7.0
Otto Julian
≈ estimated
25/05/2024
Hands-on review · flight modes, battery, wind and video tests
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is easy and light, fine for social media, but short battery life and limited wind performance make it a narrow pick.
7.0
Learn Online Video
≈ estimated
10/04/2024
Hands-on review · solo cinematic B-roll shoot
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is good for easy solo filming, but it is not the best choice for top image quality.
9.0
DC Rainmaker
≈ estimated
28/03/2024
Long-term test · about 130 flights over four months
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is the easiest drone to fly and good enough for social media, but it is not built for range or far-away scenery.
9.0
Simon Horrocks
≈ estimated
28/09/2023
Review and tutorial · modes, app, audio and limits
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is beginner-friendly and fun for casual and social shooting, but it needs good light, no rain and textured ground.
9.5
Roo's Reviews
≈ estimated
08/08/2023
Hands-on review · tracking, battery and range tests
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is reliable, quick to start and tracks well, though higher resolution would be a welcome upgrade.
9.0
Fresh and Felicia
≈ estimated
31/08/2023
First flight · unboxing and short indoor and outdoor tests
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 delivers strong video and tracking for its size and price, with some limits.
Brand video

What reviewers agree on

Based on 21 · 33

Hands-free flying and a pocketable size win reviewers over, but short battery life and no GPS or obstacle sensors hold it back.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

10
t3.com
✓ explicit
03/03/2026
Expert review · Indoor selfie drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 is a safe, foldable palm-launch drone with easy subject tracking, but its 11-minute battery and lack of obstacle avoidance limit where it can fly.
8.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
17/09/2023
Expert review · Controller-free selfie drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 is an easy, fun camera drone for quick automatic shots, with one-button modes and smooth footage, but 9 to 11 minutes of battery life limits longer outings.
8.0
techgearlab.com
✓ explicit
01/12/2025
Hands-on test · Autonomous tracking
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a foldable drone that needs no controller, tracks you precisely and lands in your palm, but has no obstacle avoidance and flies about 11 minutes per battery.
9.0
adventuremotorcycle.com
≈ estimated
03/03/2026
Rider review · Solo selfie flying
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a light, foldable drone for solo riders, with steady footage and reliable tracking, but short battery life and no obstacle avoidance hold it back.
8.0
chip.de
≈ estimated
27/02/2024
Expert review · Beginner selfie drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 is a foldable, beginner-friendly selfie drone with steady 2.7K footage, but its 10-minute battery and lack of GPS limit it to short, simple shoots.
5.4
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
21/02/2026
Expert review · Fun social drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 is a fun, ultra-light palm-launch drone for quick social media clips, but pale, soft 2.7K footage and an 11-minute battery hold it back.
9.0
ratgeber.pcgameshardware.de
≈ estimated
17/09/2024
Expert review · One-button beginner drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 is a light, one-button tracking drone that suits beginners, but its 11-minute battery and poor handling in wind limit it.
9.0
drohnen.de
≈ estimated
03/05/2024
Overview · Five flight modes
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a foldable selfie drone with five automated flight modes and no remote needed, but short flights and no obstacle sensors hold it back.
9.6
tests-et-bons-plans.fr
✓ explicit
14/08/2024
Expert review · Casual vlogging drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 suits casual vlogging and travel, with smooth 2.7K clips in good light, but noisy low-light footage and short flights hold it back.
8.0
fr.techreviewer.de
✓ explicit
08/08/2025
Expert review · Two-button selfie drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 suits beginners who want automatic social media clips, but 11-minute flights and poor performance in wind and low light hold it back.
7.0
droneandcam.com
≈ estimated
02/01/2026
Test report · Palm-launch tracking drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 tracks subjects well with Follow and Orbit, but 9 to 10 minutes of flight and no GPS restrict it to quick social clips.
9.0
it-connect.fr
≈ estimated
28/01/2024
Overview · Flying selfie camera
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a 125g foldable flying camera that launches from your palm and keeps 2.7K footage steady, but 11-minute flights limit longer outings.
8.0
javiergomiz.com
≈ estimated
Agosto de 2024 (aprox.)
Review · No-remote pocket drone
Verdict
HoverAir X1 is a pocket drone with no remote that follows you hands-free and suits social media clips, but flights last only 8 to 10 minutes.
7.0
elpais.com
≈ estimated
11/07/2024
Overview · Hands-free selfie drone
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a light selfie drone that launches from your hand and flies itself for quick social clips, but its 10-minute battery and wind limits cut shoots short.
9.0
dronezine.it
≈ estimated
08/11/2023
Expert review · Indoor close-up drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 suits indoor and close-up clips, with stable footage and a vertical mode, but 10 to 11 minutes of battery life and trouble in wind hold it back.
9.0
tomshw.it
✓ explicit
26/08/2024
Expert review · Selfie stick drone
Verdict
The HOVERAir X1 is a light, phone-free drone for casual social media creators, with reliable tracking and stable 2.7K footage, but 8- to 10-minute flights limit it.
8.0
it.techreviewer.de
✓ explicit
08/08/2025
Expert review · Travel selfie drone
Verdict
HOVERAir X1 is a light travel selfie drone with enclosed propellers and six preset modes, but its 11-minute battery and poor wind handling keep it to short clips.

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about HOVERAir X1

  • Extremely beginner-friendly with a 'one-touch' takeoff and simple palm landing
  • Ultra-portable, lightweight (125g), and foldable design that fits in a pocket
  • Effective autonomous flight modes (Follow, Orbit, Bird's Eye) and subject tracking
  • Fully enclosed propellers provide safety for users and allow for close-range indoor/outdoor use
  • High build quality and durability despite its plastic construction

What we don't like about HOVERAir X1

  • Short battery life, typically lasting only 10–12 minutes per charge
  • Lack of GPS and obstacle avoidance sensors requires careful manual monitoring
  • Limited internal storage (32GB) with no microSD card slot for expansion
  • Poor performance in windy conditions (exceeding 15 knots) due to its light weight
  • Lower video resolution (2.7K at 30fps max) and image noise in low-light environments

Verdict

The HOVERAir X1 is a 125g ultra-lightweight, foldable selfie drone designed for controller-free operation, featuring a 3-second palm takeoff and 12MP camera capable of 2.7K/30fps or 1080p/60fps video. Its core characteristics include five intelligent flight modes—Hover, Follow, Zoom Out, Orbit, and Bird’s Eye—powered by a Visual Inertial Odometry (VIO) positioning system rather than GPS. Main pros include its extreme portability, enclosed safety cages for indoor use, and ease of use for social media content creation. However, it is limited by a short 11-minute battery life per charge, lack of a microSD slot (relying on 32GB internal storage), and no obstacle avoidance sensors beyond downward-facing landing sensors.

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