HolyStone drones have emerged as a popular choice for affordable yet feature-rich drones. In 2025, their lineup spans beginner-friendly mini quads to advanced 4K camera drones that challenge higher-end competitors. If you’re shopping for a drone in the US, Holy Stone offers several feature-rich options – many under 250g (no FAA registration needed) and with GPS, 4K cameras, and smart flight modes. This comprehensive guide will review the best Holy Stone drones of 2025 with an eye on camera quality, flight performance, and value.
Why Choose a Holy Stone Drone in 2025?
Holy Stone drones are known for being user-friendly and budget-friendly, making them perfect for beginners or hobbyists who want solid features without spending DJI-level money. Over the past year, HolyStone has upped the game with upgrades like 3-axis gimbals for stable video, extended-range controllers, and compliance with new regulations (e.g. built-in Remote ID on larger models). They excel in offering:
- Affordable 4K Cameras: Several Holy Stone models now shoot in 4K or at least high-resolution 2.7K, delivering sharp aerial photos and videos without a premium price.
- GPS and Smart Modes: Features like GPS-assisted Return-to-Home, Follow Me, Waypoint navigation, and altitude hold are common, making flying and filming easier.
- Sub-250g Options: Drones under 250 grams (like the HS710, HS360S, HS900) require no FAA registration or Remote ID in the US, yet still offer advanced capabilities.
- Long Battery Life: Many come with dual batteries, providing 40- 50+ minutes total flight time – great for more practice and footage per outing.
- Beginner-Friendly Design: One-key takeoff/landing, headless mode, and stable hover make Holy Stone drones easy to learn on. Plus, Holy Stone earns praise for responsive customer support (as fans on Reddit attest).
Quick Comparison of Top Holy Stone Drones
To help you scan the differences, here’s a quick spec comparison of the six best Holy Stone drones we’ll review:
| Drone Model | Camera & Gimbal | Max Range | Flight Time | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holy Stone HS900 | 4K @30fps, 48MP photos, 3-axis gimbal + EIS | ~6,000 m (≈3.7 miles) | ~30 minutes (per battery) | 249 g | Best Overall: 4K video, travel-friendly |
| Holy Stone HS720R | 4K @30fps, 3-axis gimbal + EIS | ~3,000 m (≈1.86 miles) | ~26 minutes (per battery) | 389 g | Ultra-Stable Camera (has gimbal) |
| Holy Stone HS600 | 4K @30fps, 2-axis gimbal + EIS | ~3,000 m | |||
| Holy Stone HS710 | 4K (15fps) UHD, EIS (no gimbal) | ~600 m control; 300 m FP | ~25 minutes (per battery | 240 g | Most Portable – sub-250g, beginners |
| Holy Stone HS360S | 4K (20fps) UHD, no stabilizatio | ~3,000 m (≈1.8 miles | ~20 minutes (per battery | 249 g | Budget 4K Starter – long range, basic cam |
| Holy Stone HS175D | 4K photos (2.7K video), no gimbal | Ultra-Stable Camera (has a gimbal) | ~23 minutes (per battery (46 min w/2) | 215 g | Value GPS Drone – cheapest with 4K cam |
(Note: “No FAA registration required” for models ≤249g. Flight ranges assume ideal conditions.)
Now let’s dive into the individual reviews of top holystone drone models, including what makes each drone shine and where it might have limitations.
1. Holy Stone HS900 – Best Overall 4K Drone
The Holy Stone HS900 is the new flagship model, offering an impressive feature set for its price. This ultralight drone (249g) packs a Sony 1/2.3″ 48 MP camera stabilised by a 3-axis motorised gimbal for smooth 4K footage. It’s Holy Stone’s first model competitive with DJI’s Mini series, boasting an impressive range of up to 6 km (3.7 miles) due to its advanced controller and 5GHz system.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD Camera + Gimbal: Shoots 4K@30fps video and 48MP still images.
- Portable Design: FAA registration-free (under 250g), foldable for easy travel.
- Extended Range & Flight Time: ~6,000 m control distance, ~30-minute flight per battery, includes Return-to-Home functionality.
- Intelligent Flight Modes: GPS Follow Me, Point of Interest, waypoint navigation, tracking, and time-lapse features.
- Great Value: Often priced under $400, it offers excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of competitors.
Holy Stone HS720R – Pro-Grade Stability for Less
If you prioritise ultra-stable video and don’t mind a slightly larger drone, the Holy Stone HS720R is a top choice. Released in early 2024 as an upgrade to the HS720 series, the “R” model is Holy Stone’s first drone with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal on its camera.
This, combined with electronic stabilisation, means the HS720R’s 4K Ultra HD footage is dramatically smoother than footage from previous models – even in windy conditions or during motion. It’s a workhorse camera drone ideal for capturing travel vlogs, real estate photos, or family events with polished quality.
Key Features:
- 3-Axis Gimbal 4K Camera: Records jitter-free 4K@30fps videos and offers time-lapse mode.
- Robust Build: Sturdy, handles moderate wind well (389g, FAA registration required).
- Smooth GPS Flying: ~3 km range, ~26-minute battery life, includes GPS Return-to-Home.
- Beginner-Friendly: One-key launch/land, beginner speed modes, and reliable FPV via wired connection.
- Affordable Stability: Typically under $400, offering impressive smoothness for the price.
Holy Stone HS600 – Long Flight Time & Steady Shots
For those seeking long flight times and stable footage at a mid-range price, the Holy Stone HS600 is a compelling pick. This GPS drone comes with a 2-axis gimbal-stabilised 4K camera and is sold with two batteries standard, providing up to 56 minutes of total flight (about 28 minutes each.
The HS600 introduced features like Remote ID compliance, improved wind resistance, and a high-brightness FPV controller screen, making it a well-rounded choice for beginners and hobbyists alike.
Key Features:
- 2-Axis Gimbal 4K Camera: Records stable 4K videos and 12MP stills with electronic stabilization.
- Extended Flight: ~28 minutes per battery (56 mins total), ~3 km range, bright built-in FPV screen on the controller.
- Built-in Remote ID: FAA compliant with built-in Remote ID module (380g drone).
- Wind Resistance: Handles up to Level 6 winds (~25 mph), great outdoor stability.
- Advanced Flight Modes: GPS return, Follow Me, Orbit, Waypoints, and cinematic “One-Key Ascension.”
Holy Stone HS710 – Ultra-Portable Beginner 4K Drone
The Holy Stone HS710 is a compact, sub-250g drone that’s perfect for beginners and travellers who want a capable camera drone without the hassle of registration. Despite its small size (about the weight of a smartphone), the HS710 manages to include a 4K camera, GPS flight modes, and brushless motors for under $200. It’s been a popular model since 2022 and continues to be a top recommendation for an entry-level aerial photography drone.
Key Features:
- Portable Design: Just 240g, no FAA registration required, foldable for easy travel.
- 4K Camera (EIS only): Shoots decent photos and videos suitable for social media, best results in good lighting.
- Beginner-Friendly: GPS Return-to-Home, Altitude Hold, and simple controls.
- Reasonable Flight Range: ~600 m control range, up to ~25-minute battery life (usually sold with two batteries).
- Great Starter Value: Often available for around $150, ideal as a first drone.
Holy Stone HS360S – Best Budget Long-Range GPS Drone
The HS360S offers remarkable GPS stability and a surprising 3 km range at an affordable price. Ideal for beginners who want more flying freedom.
Key Features:
- 4K Camera: Captures 4K images/videos (limited stabilisation, better for slow shots).
- Outstanding Range: Up to 3 km (10,000 feet) FPV transmission, ideal for exploring and practice.
- GPS with Safety Modes: Includes Return-to-Home, Follow Me, and waypoint navigation.
- Good Battery Life: ~20 minutes per battery, typically bundled with multiple batteries.
- Easy Setup: Minimal assembly, intuitive app control, compact and foldable.
Holy Stone HS175D – Value-Packed Starter Drone
Rounding out our list is the Holy Stone HS175D, a value-packed starter drone that remains popular for its balanced features and low price. Weighing only 215g, the HS175D is another sub-250g model that’s ideal for beginners who want to experience GPS flying and 4K photography without spending much.
It doesn’t have the extreme range or newest tech of the HS360S, but it offers a very approachable flight experience and solid camera for the cost.
Key Features:
- 4K Capable Camera: Captures 2.7K video and 4K photos, suitable for casual social media content.
- Reliable GPS Functions: Auto Return-to-Home, Follow Me mode, waypoint navigation, great for novice pilots.
- Good Flight Duration: Around 23 minutes per battery (usually includes two batteries).
- Easy and Portable: Quick setup, compact foldable design, intuitive controls, and affordable bundles.