GoPro Karma (2016)

If you're interested in drones and looking for a smart flying robot that also shoots video, it's hard to recommend Karma over Mavic. But enthusiasts who are only looking for a drone already knew that and didn't need to read this review. If you've...

Works with Hero4 and Hero5 cameras. Includes handheld grip for gimbal. Solid tutorial for beginning pilots. Remote has integrated display. Some automated flight features. Easy offline map downloads. Includes backpack.

Short 15-minute flight time. Very limited suburban operating range. GoPro camera not ideal for aerial work. Remote screen is prone to glare. Omits obstacle avoidance and follow mode.

It took a while to get off the ground, but you can go out and buy a GoPro Karma today. And while brand devotees who already own a compatible GoPro action cam may see some upsides—including the bundled Karma Grip and relatively attractive price point—I...

Versatile ; Simple ; Portable

Underpowered ; Lacks range ; No follow mode ; No obstacle avoidance

What went down has come back around

The GoPro drone is compact and foldable, the entire system fits into the included backpack that’s so comfortable to wear during any activity, users will forget they’ve got it on. A game-style controller features an integrated touch display, making it...

Great video quality, gimbal can be used in ground based filming as well

Controller joysticks could be better

The Karma is a great drone that captures high quality footage and provides multiple other on the ground filming options. If you want something that can keep up with your creativity both on the ground and in the air, you won't find a better value.

Simple to set up and fly ; Complete system in a backpack ; Good image quality ; Sturdy and well made

Short flight time ; Low transmission range ; No 'follow me' flight modes ; No obstacle detection or indoor modes

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Portable, fold-up design ; Total stabilization package ; Tight controls

Lacks collision detection ; Not-so-autonomous auto flight modes ; Short battery life

The GoPro Karma is so much more than a drone, giving you video stabilization in the air and on the ground. However, there are better quads floating around with longer battery life and smarter brains.

Very easy to control ; Works reliably ; Consistent performance ; Smart flying modes

Not as technologically advanced as competitors ; No obstacle avoidance technology

It may not be as technologically advanced as its biggest competitor, the Mavic Pro, but the GoPro Karma is incredibly simple to control, and doesn't require a smartphone. It battles with the wind and wins, plus it's capable of supporting existing GoPro...