FPV Drone Types: All You Need to Know

First-Person View (FPV) drones have transformed aerial experiences, allowing pilots to immerse themselves in the flight through real-time video transmission. This creates an unparalleled sense of presence and control, making you feel like you're soaring through the sky. But stepping into this realm can be daunting. With a multitude of drone types and specialized jargon, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. This guide covers the primary types of FPV drones, their unique characteristics, and answers to commonly asked questions.

1. Miniature and Indoor FPV Drones

For beginners and those seeking thrills within the confines of their homes or small outdoor areas, miniature and indoor FPV drones are the perfect starting point. These drones are characterized by their small size, lightweight design, and ability to navigate tight spaces with agility.

1.1 Tinywhoop

What is a Tinywhoop?

Tinywhoops are the quintessential indoor FPV drones. They are incredibly small (typically 65–75mm propeller size) , often weighing under 30 grams. Its compact size makes it perfect for navigating tight spaces and performing agile maneuvers. Tinywhoops typically feature ducted propellers (hence the "whoop" sound). This ducting makes them safer for indoor flight, protecting the propellers from impacts and reducing the risk of damage to surroundings or injury. Popular models include the Emax Tinyhawk and BetaFPV Meteor series.

Can you fly Tinywhoops outside?

Yes, you can fly Tinywhoops outside, but their small motors and light frames make them vulnerable to wind and weather conditions. Calm days with minimal wind are ideal for outdoor Tinywhoop flights.

1.2 Micro/Nano FPV Drones

Micro and Nano FPV drones are ultra-small drones designed for indoor and close-quarters flying. They provide an accessible entry point into the FPV world due to their affordability and ease of use.

Do micro drones exist?

Yes, micro drones absolutely exist. In the FPV world, "micro drone" and "nano drone" are common terms used to describe small drones that are larger than Tinywhoops but still smaller than typical outdoor racing or cinematic drones. They are typically defined as FPV drones with a frame size between 75mm and 150mm. Micro drones weigh under 250g (avoiding FAA registration in the U.S.) and use 1S–2S batteries.

How high can a micro drone fly?

Micro drones typically max out at 50–100 meters due to limited battery life and signal range.

What is a mini vs. micro drone?

A mini drone usually has a frame size of 150mm to 250mm, while a micro drone falls between 75mm and 150mm. Minis are more powerful and versatile, whereas micros are ideal for indoor flying.

Are nano drones real?

Yes, nano drones are real. "Nano drone" usually refers to the smallest category of drones with frame sizes under 75mm and are perfect for indoor flight, sometimes used synonymously with Tinywhoops or even smaller drones pushing the boundaries of miniaturization.

How far can a nano drone fly?

Nano drones generally have a range of 50-150 meters due to their limited battery and signal output.

What is the difference between micro drone and nano drone?

While both terms denote very small drones, "nano drone" typically implies an even smaller size than "micro drone." Micro drones are larger and more powerful than nano drones, offering greater flight times and range. Nano drones prioritize portability and are limited to very short ranges.

1.3 Toothpick Drones

What is a Toothpick Drone?

Toothpick drones represent a fascinating bridge between indoor micros and outdoor-capable drones. They are named for their ultra-lightweight frames, often built around thin carbon fiber "toothpick" arms. These drones prioritize minimal weight for maximum agility and efficiency and they excel in both indoor and outdoor flight.

2. Cinematic FPV Drones

Cinematic FPV drones are engineered to capture smooth, high-quality aerial video and photos. They prioritize stability, payload capacity (for better cameras), and smooth flight characteristics over raw speed or extreme agility.

2.1 Cinewhoop

What does CineWhoop mean?

"Cinewhoop" is a term that combines "Cinematic" and "Whoop." It describes a type of FPV drone that utilizes the ducted propeller design of Tinywhoops but in a larger, more powerful format. The ducts improve safety and durability while still allowing for nimble, cinematic flight in tighter environments.

Which Cinewhoop is best?

The "best" Cinewhoop depends on your specific needs and budget, but here are some popular and highly regarded options, categorized by common use cases:

For GoPro/Action Cam Cinewhoops (Versatile & Popular):

  ●DJI Avata: A highly integrated and user-friendly option from DJI. Known for its ease of use, excellent video quality, and safety features. Great for beginners to cinematic FPV.

  ●iFlight CineBee/CineRace: Popular pre-built options known for their performance, durability, and value.

  ●GEPRC Cinebot/CineLog: Another reputable brand offering well-regarded Cinewhoops.

How fast is a Cinewhoop?

Cinewhoops typically fly at speeds of 30-60 km/h (18-37 mph), prioritizing stability over speed.

2.2 Cinelifter

What is a Cinelifter?

Cinelifters are the "heavy artillery" of cinematic FPV drones. These are large, powerful multirotor drones specifically designed to carry professional cinema cameras, like DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or even small cinema cameras, for high-end aerial filmmaking.

What is the difference between Cinewhoop and Cinelifter?

The key difference lies in size, payload capacity, and intended camera use.

  ●Cinewhoops: Are like agile, cinematic sports cars – versatile, fun, and capable of capturing great footage in many situations.

  ●Cinelifters: Are like heavy-duty, professional camera cranes in the sky – designed for carrying the biggest, best cameras and achieving the highest possible cinematic quality for demanding productions.

3. Racing and Crossing FPV Drones

This category encompasses FPV drones designed for high-speed racing, acrobatic freestyle maneuvers, and long-distance exploration. These drones prioritize performance, durability, and range over cinematic smoothness.

3.1 Racing Drones

What is the meaning of FPV racing?

FPV racing is a competitive sport where pilots fly purpose-built racing drones through complex, obstacle-filled courses while wearing FPV goggles. The goal is to complete the course as quickly and accurately as possible. It's a high-skill, high-adrenaline activity that combines elements of drone piloting, reflexes, and strategic course navigation.

Which drones are used for racing?

Popular FPV racing drones include the EMAX Hawk Pro, TBS Vendetta, and custom-built 5-inch quads optimized for speed.

How much do racing drones cost?

Racing drones typically range from $200 to $800, depending on components, frame materials, and customizations.

Are racing drones legal?

Racing drones are legal in most areas, but pilots must comply with local aviation regulations, including frequency use and line-of-sight rules.

How fast can a racing drone go?

High-performance racing drones can reach speeds of 160 km/h (99 mph) or more.

How far can racing drones fly?

While speed is the focus, racing drones also need decent range to cover racecourses.

Typical Racing Range: 300 meters - 1 kilometer (1000 feet - 0.6 miles) is often sufficient for racing courses. Racing drones can be configured for longer range, but this is usually not prioritized over speed and agility.

What is the difference between freestyle and racing FPV?

FPV racing and FPV freestyle are distinct but related disciplines within FPV flying:

  ●FPV Racing: Is like Formula 1 or MotoGP – high-speed, technical, competitive, about lap times and winning races on a track.

  ●FPV Freestyle: Is like skateboarding or snowboarding – about individual style, creativity, performing tricks, expressing yourself through aerial movements.

3.2 Freestyle Drones

What is FPV freestyle?

FPV freestyle is a form of FPV flying focused on performing aerial acrobatics, tricks, and creative maneuvers in open spaces or urban environments. It's about self-expression, pushing the limits of drone agility, and capturing visually stunning freestyle flight videos.

How fast is FPV freestyle?

Freestyle drones can reach 100-120 km/h (62-74 mph) but prioritize maneuverability over raw speed.

What size drone is best for freestyle?

5-inch drones are the standard for freestyle due to their balance of power, control, and durability.

What is the best FPV freestyle drone?

Like Cinewhoops, the "best" freestyle drone is subjective and depends on pilot preference and budget. Top choices for FPV freestyle include the iFlight Nazgul5, GEPRC Mark5, and custom-built 5-inch quads.

3.3 Long Range Drones

Long-range FPV drones are optimized for extended distances and are ideal for exploration, surveying, and mountain surfing.

What is the best size for a long-range FPV?

7-inch drones are preferred for long-range FPV due to their efficiency and stability.

What is the maximum distance for FPV?

The "maximum distance" for FPV is constantly being pushed by advancements in technology and adventurous pilots. However, practical and legal limitations exist.

  ●Practical Long Range (Reliable Signal): With optimized setups and good conditions, pilots can reliably achieve ranges of 5-10+ kilometers (3-6+ miles) or even further.

  ●Extreme Long Range Records: Record-setting long-range flights have pushed distances to 50+ kilometers (30+ miles) or more in controlled environments with specialized equipment.

What FPV drone has the longest range?

There isn't one single "longest range FPV drone" model, as long-range FPV is often about custom builds and optimized components. However, drones designed for long range typically share these characteristics:

  ●Larger Frames (6-7 inch+): For efficiency and battery capacity.

  ●Efficient Motors & Props: Optimized for long flight times.

  ●High-Capacity Batteries: Li-Ion batteries are often favored for their energy density.

  ●Long-Range Radio Systems: Using systems like TBS Crossfire, FrSky R9, or ELRS (ExpressLRS) known for extended range capabilities.GPS & Return-to-Home (RTH): Essential safety features for long-range flights.

Is Long-Range FPV Legal?

Depends on local laws. In the U.S., FAA requires VLOS (visual line of sight), making ultra-long-range illegal without waivers.

Conclusion

FPV drones offer a broad spectrum of possibilities, from indoor exploration to high-speed racing and professional cinematography. Understanding the distinctions between various FPV drone types ensures you select the best platform for your needs while complying with legal and safety standards. As a global leading lipo battery manufacturer, Grepow offers FPV battery for FPV drones in various types ranging from Tinywhoop to racing drone. The battery capacities range from 270mAh to 9000mAh, with discharge rates (C ratings) from 15C to 250C, catering to your specific application requirements. If you have any questions or needs, please feel free to contact us at info@grepow.com.