Buying guide for best drones with thermal camera
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A drone is an innovative device that can capture stunning images in real time. It’s handy for shooting in hard-to-reach areas or recording live events at tricky angles. A thermal camera can aid even further in getting the shots you want, providing heat signatures from animals and humans at a distance. It’s tremendously helpful for building inspectors, engineers, hunters and search-and-rescue teams.
The best drones with a thermal camera offer extended flight times, high-resolution images, fast flight speed and high thermal resolution as well as some neat features that can help you achieve the perfect shot. But the more state-of-the-art features you want, the higher the price, with some models costing well over $10,000.
In our search for the best drones with a thermal camera, we kept price in mind, so there’s an option on our list to suit any budget. Our top pick is the popular DJI Mavic 3 Thermal, which is easy for beginners to operate but still provides a high level of quality that professionals require.
Which drone with a thermal camera is best?
DJI Mavic 3 Thermal
Best of the Best
Flight Time: 45 min | Camera Resolution (Thermal and RGB): 640 x 512; 4K | Range/Transmission Distance: 2 sq km | Thermal Sensor Type: Uncooled VOx Microbolometer | Max Speed: 21 m/s
This commercial drone is perfect for beginners and experienced pilots who want something high quality for recording nature, live events and other spectacles. It’s also the ideal choice for anyone who wants a drone with extended flight time, as it offers up to 45 minutes of continuous recording.
The advanced sensor has a mechanical shutter to prevent motion blur and supports rapid 0.7-interval shooting. The 12-megapixel zoom camera supports up to 56x magnification, allowing pilots to see details with improved clarity from a distance. The thermal camera is particularly impressive thanks to a 640 x 512 resolution. It supports area temperature measurement, high-temperature alerts and color palettes. Plus, the thermal and zoom cameras support 28x side-by-side viewing for convenient comparison with regular images.
The DJI Mavic 3 flies similarly to other DJI drones, which is good news as it’s known as one of the most intuitive drones for novice pilots. It also has a durable build despite its lightweight design and excellent overall protection when not in Sport mode. Superior battery life, focus tracking and image quality along with stunning panoramic shots make this drone a superb buy for beginners, as well as for professional and commercial use.
Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3
Best Bang for the Buck
Flight Time: 38 minutes | Camera Resolution (Thermal and RGB): 640 x 510; 4K HD | Range/Transmission Distance: 15 km | Thermal Sensor Type: Uncooled VOx Microbolometer | Max Speed: 20 m/s
Although we’ve dubbed the Autel Robotics EVO II 640T V3 a budget-friendly model, it’s still an expensive drone with plenty of premium features. Above all else, this drone can help reduce inspection costs thanks to its thermal sensor, which boasts a resolution of 640 x 512 at 30 frames per second.
We’re highly intrigued by this drone’s advanced technology and features, which include a 13-millimeter lens, 16x digital zoom and four times lossless zoom. All of those features can help pilots achieve stunning images, and combined with the drone’s ability to recognize subjects at a distance of up to 100 meters, you won’t be disappointed with what it captures. Thermal functionality is fantastic for hunting, as it allows pilots to identify objects and provides 10 thermal palettes, regional temperature measurement, picture-in-picture display and a temperature alarm with isotherm and image enhancement.
One of the most versatile drones on the market, it has a high capacity for shooting in various environments. Video transmission is also one of its highlights, and the bundle includes various accessories, such as multiple chargers, covers and utility cables. Whether you’re an experienced pilot looking for the most value or a beginner who wants to learn drone flying with a high-grade unit, you’ll love what the Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3 has to offer.
Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone
Most Versatile
Flight Time: 42 min | Camera Resolution (Thermal and RGB): 640 x 512; 4K HD | Range/Transmission Distance: 20 km | Thermal Sensor Type: Uncooled VOx Microbolometer | Max Speed: 23 m/s
The Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N is a premium drone featuring an advanced-engineered thermal sensor and mesh networking, which allows for autonomous drone-to-drone communication. This drone has all the cameras and sensors you need to capture fine details and gather data while working on projects, hunting or missions. It packs a handful of premium features and other cutting-edge technologies, making it one of the most sophisticated drones.
It boasts a starlight camera for improved nighttime vision, a wide 50-megapixel camera, a thermal camera with a 640 x 512 resolution and a laser rangefinder to help pilots make critical and analytical decisions in the field. Mesh networking allows for efficient communication between other drones in the area, and if one drone fails or suddenly leaves the chain, the entire system will strategically reorganize itself to resume relaying information without interruption. It also combines binocular vision systems with millimeter-wave radar technology to ensure zero blind spots and maximum obstacle avoidance.
The steep price tag is justified considering the state-of-the-art technology this drone packs, but it’s nowhere near ideal for beginners. It’s equipped with cameras and sensors designed for thorough field and industrial inspection, making it much more suitable for professional and commercial use.
Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T
Best at Avoiding Obstacles
Flight Time: 42 min | Camera Resolution (Thermal and RGB): 640 x 512; 4K HD | Range/Transmission Distance: 20 km | Thermal Sensor Type: Uncooled VOx Microbolometer | Max Speed: 23 m/s
The Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T can be considered the “light” version of the Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s for kids or unsuitable for missions or inspections. It’s more affordable, but this drone packs a heavy punch and features everything you could want from a drone with a thermal camera.
In addition to a wide-angle zoom camera, it’s equipped with a thermal sensor with a 640 x 512 resolution, a 13-millimeter aperture, 16x digital zoom and temperature measurement. Mesh 1.0 technology allows for multiple machines to be controlled autonomously by a single pilot or by a group of pilots, even without cellular coverage. It uses advanced flight-control modules and algorithms to safely fly close to power lines and structures without colliding. Plus, it offers an extended flight time of 42 minutes and a 4,000-meter max takeoff altitude.
Those looking for a drone with a thermal camera offering a plethora of premium features will not be disappointed with this unit. It may be too advanced for beginners, but experienced pilots will get lots out of it. Few drones have such sophisticated technology, and for a much lower price, it’s something of a bargain compared to its more robust big brother, the Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone.
DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used)
Most Affordable Option
Flight Time: 31 min | Camera Resolution (Thermal and RGB): 640 x 512; 4K HD | Range/Transmission Distance: 8 km | Thermal Sensor Type: Uncooled VOx Microbolometer | Max Speed: 45 mph
If you’re reading this article, we can assume that you’re aware of how expensive drones are, let alone drones with integrated thermal sensors. However, there are some more budget-friendly options to consider, such as the DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual Kit. It’s a used unit, but it still retains all of its functionality and features, delivering an elite performance that’s so impressive you wouldn’t even know it wasn’t a brand-new drone.
This drone features advanced security features to keep your photos, videos and files safe, as well as AirSense technology to help pilots stay aware of airspace and keep the drone away from hazards. It has a maximum flight time of 31 minutes and a top speed of 45 miles per hour, and the thermal camera has a resolution of 160 x 120. It also supports burst shooting, multiple video formats and 4K recording. Plus, it includes a beacon for increased safety, a spotlight for improved clarity and a speaker for efficient communication.
If you’re still skeptical about purchasing a used drone, you can rest assured that Adorama, a trusted retailer of cameras and electronics based in New York City, thoroughly inspects drones before resale. With your mind at ease about that, you’ll be satisfied with this high-quality drone at a cheaper price point, and you’ll be flying and capturing stunning images in no time. Plus, the thermal sensor makes it one of the best drones you can get for the price, with a feature that’s usually only found in top-tier drones costing well over $5,000.
How we analyzed the best drone with thermal camera
To determine which models are the best, we analyzed reviews of popular options to find the top performers — and weed out the troublesome ones. We also researched the most important specs, design qualities and performance indicators in order to whittle down our list to only the best drones with the most desirable features and versatile functionality.
Key features to consider
Image resolution and software
The resolution of the thermal sensor is a critical factor in image quality. Higher resolutions provide more detailed thermal images, making it easier to detect smaller temperature differences and identify objects. A higher thermal resolution also allows for more precise inspections and monitoring tasks, especially for professional applications like search and rescue or industrial inspections. Detection, Recognition and Identification (DRI) ranges are also much better with drones that have advanced thermal sensors and zoom lenses.
Some drones come with built-in or compatible thermal analysis software that allows users to measure temperature variations, set temperature thresholds and highlight areas of interest. This feature is especially handy for industrial inspections and firefighting.
Our top picks: Image resolution and software
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal and DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): These DJI drones offer 640 x 512 thermal resolution and a full software suite where pilots can access drone and payload controls, and find details of flight navigation.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3, Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: These drones feature a standard 640 x 512 thermal resolution and boast impressive DRI ranges. The Autel Explorer app offers remote piloting control, an HD live view and flight parameter tuning.
Visual camera (RGB) and thermal color palettes
Many drones are equipped with both a thermal and visual camera. The RGB camera helps with standard visual imaging, providing context alongside the thermal data. Some drones offer a fusion mode, where the thermal image is overlaid on the visual image for better situational awareness.
The best drones record in 4K HD, but some lower-tier models have a maximum resolution of just 1080p full HD. Drones that offer multiple color palettes allow you to adjust the way thermal data is displayed based on your preference or the situation’s needs. Different color schemes can highlight specific heat signatures more effectively.
Our top picks: Visual camera (RGB) and thermal color palettes
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal: Simultaneous split screen allows you to see a thermal and RGB side by side for detailed comparisons, and supported color palettes include White Hot, Black Hot, Tint, Iron Red, Hot Iron, Arctic, Medical, Fulgurite, Rainbow 1 and Rainbow 2.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3, Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and
Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: These drones can all record in 4K HD, boast RYYB sensor technology for 40% more brightness than standard RGB cameras and support 10 color palettes: White Hot, Cold Hot, Rainbow, Enhanced, Rainbow, Ironbow, Lava, Arctic, Searing, Gradation and Heat Detection.
- DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): Image quality and resolution isn’t as crisp as with the DJI Mavic 3, but it’s still excellent. It has the same thermal color palettes as the DJI Mavic 3.
Battery life and flight time
Flight time is crucial for tasks like search and rescue or large-area inspections. Drones typically have flight times ranging from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on the model and weather conditions. A longer flight time ensures you can cover more ground without frequent battery swaps or charging. In any case, it’s best to consider using a drone that allows for quick battery replacement in the field. Having multiple batteries on hand can significantly extend operation time.
Our top picks: Battery life and flight time
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal: Under regular weather conditions, this drone should provide up to 46 minutes of uninterrupted flight time, making it suitable for extended periods of shooting.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3: You’ll get 38 minutes of flying time in non-windy weather with this value-pick drone.
- Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: These drones are more advanced and fare slightly better than the EVO II Dual 640T V3 with regards to battery life, offering 42 minutes of flight time in calm weather.
- DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): The battery life only provides 31 minutes of flight time, making it a suitable unit for shorter missions or projects.
Range and signal transmission
A long-range drone allows you to fly farther from your location while maintaining a strong signal. Some drones have ranges of up to 6 miles or more, which is beneficial for large-scale operations. You’ll also want to ensure the drone features a high-quality, low-latency transmission system, which provides a stable connection allowing real-time viewing of thermal and RGB images from long distances.
Our top picks: Range and signal transmission
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal: Two square kilometers is a solid transmission range and is now considered standard for a high-end drone.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3: A 15-kilometer transmission range makes this unit ideal for long-distance tracking.
- Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: Both of these drones boast a 20-kilometer transmission range, making them the best options for complex projects requiring the drone to fly far from homebase.
- DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): This drone is best for mid-distance tracking as it only has an 8-kilometer transmission range.
Flight stability and GPS
Dual GPS systems improve positioning accuracy and stability during flight, which is important for precise inspections or flying in challenging environments. Advanced drones have sensors that help them avoid obstacles while flying, reducing the risk of crashes when operating in complex environments, such as around buildings or forests, or near power lines and structures.
Our top picks: Flight stability and GPS
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal: Omnidirectional sensing helps this drone avoid obstacles, and it supports the following global navigation systems: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3: This drone supports GPS, Galileo, BeiDou and GLONASS and has 12 sensors and 720-degree obstacle avoidance.
- Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: Both of these Autel drones feature advanced UAV technology that eliminates blind spots and combine binocular vision systems with millimeter wave radar technology for flying in low-light conditions. Both support standard GNSS formats well.
- DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): Like the DJI Mavic 3, it features omnidirectional obstacle sensing, but it only supports GPS and GLONASS.
Durability and weather resistance
Most drones have a rugged exterior that allows them to operate safely in challenging weather conditions. The best drones are built to withstand wind, dust, rain and extreme temperatures. If portability is a concern, look for drones with foldable designs or lightweight construction, making them easy to transport to remote areas.
Our top picks: Durability and weather resistance
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal: It’s one of the best wind-resistant options, but it’s not IP rated so it’s best not to fly it when it’s raining.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3, Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: Although these drones are engineered for superior durability thank to the rugged hard plastic and carbon fiber construction, they only have an IP43 water-protection rating, so they’re not recommended for use in heavy rain.
- DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): This has an IP54 rating, making it suitable for use when it’s raining lightly.
Ease of use and autonomous flight
Drones with preprogrammed autonomous flight modes, such as waypoint navigation, follow-me mode and orbit mode, can significantly enhance the ease of use and precision of the mission. It’s crucial to ensure the drone is easy to operate, especially if you’re not an experienced pilot. Some drones come with intuitive apps or remote controllers that simplify flight operations.
Our top picks: Ease of use and autonomous flight
- DJI Mavic 3 Thermal and DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise DUAL Kit (Used): DJI drones are intuitive, and both models allow for autonomous mission planning for 3D mapping.
- Autel Robotics EVO II Dual 640T V3: This drone is easier for beginners to fly than our other favorite Autel drones with thermal cameras, and you can build 3D maps in real time for smooth operation.
- Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4N Drone and Autel Robotics EVO MAX 4T: These drones feature advanced mesh technology that allows them to operate autonomously in a network with other drones.
Use case considerations
There are a number of reasons to purchase a drone with a thermal camera. Below are some of the more popular use cases and a look at the types of features you’ll need for each one.
Search and rescue
- Long flight time and range: Drones for search and rescue should have long flight times and extensive range capabilities to cover large areas. A high-resolution thermal sensor helps in locating people or animals in challenging conditions.
- Night vision capabilities: Drones with both thermal and low-light RGB cameras are useful for night operations, allowing rescuers to locate targets more easily in complete darkness.
Wildlife monitoring
- Quiet operation: For wildlife monitoring, choose drones that are quieter to avoid disturbing animals. A thermal camera is highly useful for tracking animals at night or in dense foliage where visual cameras may not be effective.
Industrial inspections
- High-resolution thermal sensors: Inspections for power lines, solar panels or pipelines require drones with high-resolution thermal sensors to detect temperature anomalies, such as overheating or leaks.
- Data analysis: The drone should be compatible with professional thermal analysis software that allows users to measure and evaluate temperature data onsite or after the flight.
