ZeroZero Robotics has taken another significant step forward in the world of prosumer camera drones with the release of the HOVERAir X1 Pro and X1 ProMax. Both models are positioned to set a new standard for compact, user-friendly drones, incorporating advanced features that cater to photography and videography enthusiasts. With starting prices under $500, these drones offer a compelling package for those looking to capture high-quality aerial footage without breaking the bank.
Compact yet feature-rich: The evolution from HOVERAir X1
The HOVERAir X1 Pro and ProMax are successors to the original HOVERAir X1, also known as the Hover Camera X1, a compact drone known for its portability and ease of use. One of the standout features of the original X1 was its ability to fold like a clamshell, making it easy to carry around. It could also take off from and land on the user’s hand, a feat made possible by a protective cage around its four propellers.
This model was equipped with facial and body recognition algorithms, ensuring that users remained the focal point in their shots. It also boasted multiple autonomous flight modes, such as Hover, Follow, Zoom Out, Orbit, and Bird’s Eye, all controlled with a simple pushbutton on the drone itself. These functionalities allowed users to capture dynamic shots without needing extensive piloting skills.
Despite its strengths, the original X1 had limitations in camera resolution, speed, and flight duration. The base model’s camera was capped at a maximum resolution of 2.7K at 30 frames per second (fps), and its flight speed was limited to 25 km/h (16 mph). Furthermore, its battery life was relatively short, offering around 12 minutes of flight time. Recognizing these limitations, ZeroZero Robotics has introduced the HOVERAir X1 Pro and ProMax, addressing these shortcomings and introducing a host of new features.
HOVERAir X1 Pro: Enhanced performance and versatility
The HOVERAir X1 Pro is designed for users who need a drone that can keep up with fast-paced activities like snow sports and cycling. One of the major upgrades in the Pro model is its camera, which now offers a 4K resolution at 60 fps, a significant improvement over the base model’s 2.7K. Additionally, for those interested in slow-motion footage, the Pro can record at 1080p at 120 fps.
In terms of speed, the Pro model is a substantial upgrade, capable of flying at speeds of up to 42 km/h (26 mph) and even reaching short bursts of 60 km/h (37 mph) to follow rapidly moving subjects. This increased speed makes it ideal for capturing dynamic action scenes that the base model might struggle to keep up with.
The Pro model also improves upon the original’s flight time. Equipped with a 1,920-mAh lithium battery, the X1 Pro offers up to 16 minutes of flight time—an improvement over the base model’s 12 minutes. Additionally, the battery is hot-swappable, allowing users to quickly change to a fresh battery for extended flight sessions.
Another significant enhancement in the Pro model is its Wi-Fi range. The Pro can be manually piloted and provide real-time camera views up to 500 meters (1,640 feet) away, a considerable increase from the base model’s range of 50 meters (164 feet). This extended range opens up more possibilities for capturing diverse landscapes and more challenging shots.
Advanced features for more demanding environments
The HOVERAir X1 Pro is also designed to perform in more challenging conditions than its predecessor. Unlike the base model, which relies on daylight-illuminated ground for autonomous flight, the Pro can fly over water, snow, and in the dark. This capability is enabled by an improved secondary downward-facing camera that does not require visible ground textures to gauge speed and altitude. Additionally, the Pro comes with a rear collision detection and avoidance system, further enhancing its safety features.
HOVERAir X1 ProMax: Pushing the limits of aerial photography
For professionals seeking even more advanced capabilities, the HOVERAir X1 ProMax builds on the Pro’s features with several notable enhancements. The ProMax offers an 8K resolution at 30 fps, providing incredibly detailed footage. For those who prefer the flexibility of different resolutions, the ProMax also supports 4K at 60 fps and 4K slow-motion at 120 fps.
The ProMax also features an upgraded collision detection system. Unlike the Pro’s proximity-sensor-based system, the ProMax utilizes vision-based rear collision detection, offering a more sophisticated approach to obstacle avoidance. This model also doubles the internal memory to 64 GB, compared to the Pro’s 32 GB, and supports SD cards of up to 1 TB for additional storage.
Despite these upgrades, both the Pro and ProMax maintain a relatively compact form factor. When unfolded, both models measure 173×149×39 mm and weigh around 192 grams (6.8 ounces), slightly larger and heavier than the original X1, which weighs 125 grams (4.4 ounces). However, the added weight and size are a fair trade-off for the enhanced features and capabilities.
Pricing and additional accessories
The HOVERAir X1 Pro and ProMax are currently available through an Indiegogo campaign. Early adopters can secure the X1 Pro for a pledge of $399 and the ProMax for $599. Once the campaign concludes, the retail prices are expected to be $499 for the Pro and $699 for the ProMax.
In addition to the drones, ZeroZero Robotics offers an optional Beacon device, priced at $129. The Beacon enhances the drone’s functionality by allowing users to view the camera’s feed through an OLED screen and control the drone via buttons or voice commands. It also extends the communication range to 1 km (0.6 miles), and users can attach either a one-handed or two-handed joystick controller for more intuitive control.
Source: HOVERAir
