You're afraid you could lose the drone because you can't see it on the screen using an iPhone or
Smart Controller? It shouldn't be an issue unless you're flying in some dangerous situations (e.g nearby power lines, buildings, trees, cliffs, etc.). A friend of mine has a Phantom 3 and he uses a big honking sun shade with this iPad and he can definitely see the drone with no problem. I haven't needed a sun shade for my
SC and have generally been able to know where I'm at on the screen and of course using visual line of sight to the drone. I take it out much farther here at my small acreage where I know the height of the trees in all distances for quite a long ways. I'm far more cautious when I'm flying in new terrains though and really use a heavy combination of screen and visual awareness. I like the
SC because there are no cords to a phone, much faster launch time, and with a lanyard the
SC can hang from your neck without dislodging a phone or iPad when you're on a trail or rough ground. Again, good luck with your selection!