Cheaper drone suggestion for a newbie before they buy the more expensive mini?

[Mr. Rocketman]

I'll offer a contrarian view.

The "cheap" drone I learned to fly on was the GPS enabled MJX Bugs 2. The current model is the Bugs 3 MJX BUGS 3 Entry-level Brushless RTF Drone - Bugs Series - MJX | Dream Of The Future I just can't understand how they can package that much technology into a product that costs a hundred bucks. the camera on it was junk but the speed, maneuverability, power and responsiveness were awesome. The DJI drones are slow and conservative by comparison and by the time I upgraded to a Phantom, I had all the skills for absolute confidence and control.

I crashed the Bugs a few times but parts were available and I was able to replace even the entire plastic airframe.

All that said, don't buy a drone without GPS and some kind of live video feed because you will be frustrated.

And make sure it has an SD slot to record on-board video!

 

[March411]

I little late but for what it's I picked up my Tello and MM2 refurbished from the link below and both were in perfect shape and have flow great. Both came with a warranty. It's a little more then you want to spend but worth the extra bucks to get a nice drone with a warranty.

DJI Authorized Store | eBay Stores

Creativity is at the heart of every dream. Every idea, every groundbreaking leap that changes our world starts with the vision of talented creators. At DJI, we give these creators the tools they need to bring their ideas to life.

www.ebay.com

 

[PhoebeSnow]

I have been using the Xiaomi Fimi X8SE 2022 V2 drone and it is absolutely terrific. Cost is higher at $429 but the range surpassed any of my 4 DJI drones (Mavic Pro, Mavic Zoom, Mavic Air and Phantom III). I purchased the $300 remote controller and now never suffer disconnects due to conneciton cords. And the remote is very easy to see in the daylight. I realize this is more than the $100 you wanted to spend but it works as well and in some cases better than any of my 4 DJI drones. The only difference is there are no sensors. But if you fly conservatively you really do not need them. I bought mine for risky flights over long distances. Today I purchased another Fimi X8SE 2022 (drone only no battery or controller) for $300. as a back up. Since I have the Fimi 2019 & 2020 I have plenty of batteries and controllers. This drone operates in the rain and is level 8 wind resistent. I have flown it in strong winds and storms with no issue at all. I'm not keen on doing that with my $1500 Mavic Zoom. But if anything happens to this drone it only cost me $300 to replace it.