Five Different Types Of Drones To Know
Drones, officially known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have rapidly evolved from niche military technology into accessible tools, transforming numerous industries and hobbies. What was once futuristic is now commonplace, with drones performing tasks ranging from aerial photography and package delivery to search and rescue operations. However, the term “drone” encompasses a wide variety of designs, capabilities, and applications. Understanding the different types is key to appreciating their versatility and potential.
In this article, we will list the five common types of drones you should be aware of so you won’t become a victim of purchasing a drone for the wrong purpose.
- Multi-Rotor Drones (e.g., Quadcopters)
Multi-rotor drones are the most common and recognisable type, especially in the consumer and small commercial markets. They are characterised by having multiple propellers (typically four for a quadcopter, six for a hexacopter, or eight for an octocopter), which provide lift and control.
These drones offer excellent stability and manoeuvrability, making them ideal for hovering, taking off and landing vertically, and navigating confined spaces. They are relatively easy to fly, especially models with GPS and automated flight modes.
They are mostly used for Aerial photography and videography (due to stable platforms for cameras), recreational flying, streaming casino online real money, real estate marketing, inspections (e.g., infrastructure, solar panels), package delivery (for lighter goods), and precision agriculture mapping. Their versatility makes them popular for both hobbyists and professionals.
- Fixed-Wing Drones
Fixed-wing drones resemble traditional aeroplanes, relying on a wing for lift and a propeller (or jet engine) for thrust. Unlike multi-rotors, they cannot hover and require either a runway for takeoff and landing or a launching mechanism (such as a catapult) and a recovery system (like a net or parachute).
These drones are highly energy-efficient, can cover vast distances, and remain airborne for much more extended periods than multi-rotors. They typically fly at higher speeds and can carry heavier payloads relative to their size.
They are used for Large-scale mapping and surveying (e.g., agricultural fields, construction sites), long-range inspections (e.g., pipelines, power lines), environmental monitoring, border surveillance, and search and rescue in extensive areas. Their endurance and speed make them invaluable for covering large territories.
- Single-Rotor Helicopters
Single-rotor drones are miniaturised versions of traditional helicopters, featuring one large main rotor for lift and a smaller tail rotor for anti-torque control.
These drones offer superior flight efficiency compared to multi-rotors, especially for heavier payloads and longer flight times. They can achieve higher speeds and are more stable in windy conditions than most multi-rotors. However, they are mechanically more complex, typically larger, and often more challenging to fly, requiring advanced pilot skills.
- Hybrid (VTOL) Drones
Hybrid drones combine the best features of fixed-wing and multi-rotor designs, offering Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) capabilities along with the efficient forward flight of a fixed-wing aircraft.
Long-range inspections in areas with limited space (e.g., remote industrial sites), rapid response scenarios where quick deployment and extensive coverage are needed, advanced mapping, and military reconnaissance. Their versatility makes them ideal for missions that require both precise vertical movement and efficient horizontal travel.
- FPV (First Person View) Drones
FPV drones are a specialised category primarily designed for immersive flying experiences or racing. Pilots wear goggles that display a real-time video feed from the drone’s onboard camera, providing them with a “first-person view” as if they were in the cockpit.
These drones are often custom-built, highly agile, and capable of extreme speeds and complex acrobatic manoeuvres. They are generally much smaller and more robustly built to withstand crashes but require significant pilot skill to operate.
Drone racing (competitive sport), cinematic FPV (where a pilot performs dynamic, flowing shots that traditional camera drones cannot achieve, often used in action sports or unique commercial videos), and recreational freestyle flying for an adrenaline rush.
