Don’t Be Fooled: This Adorable Little Drone Means Business

Vantage Robotics

When you first look at the Vantage Robotics Snap drone, you might think it’s just another flying toy. Perhaps even a 3D-printed flying toy. There are four rotors protected with lightweight housings, a detachable camera module that looks a bit like a flashlight, and the whole thing folds up and fits in your backpack. Super cute, right!?
Wrong! In terms of capabilities and features, this drone is serious. That camera? It’s a 4K camera with a Sony Exmor sensor that shoots UltraHD video at 30fps, 1080p video at up to 120fps, and 720p video at up to 240fps; it’ll live-stream 720p video at 30fps. Although that lightweight 1.1-pound body looks a little flimsy, don’t worry about it introducing a ton of camera shake: The camera is mounted on a two-axis mechanical gimbal, and video is further bolstered by electronic stabilization.
Beyond the unique combination of portability and picture quality, it’s the Snap’s flying modes that put it firmly in “serious drone” territory. Right out of the box, there’s a follow-me mode that links up to an iOS or Android device. You can use those phones as manual remote controls via an app, as well as Bluetooth game controllers and DSM controllers. If you’re more of a rookie in terms of pilot skills, there are “orbit,” “out and back,” and “air tripod” presets to help you capture different kinds of drone-shot selfies.
The Snap connects to phones via Wi-Fi with a range of 500 feet, and it has its own gyroscope, accelerometer, GPS module, sonar sensor, and magnetometer on board. The flight time per charge and top speed are right in line with heavier high-end UAVs, too: 20 minutes and 30mph. According to the company, it can also cut through 20mph winds.
Another tip-off that this lightweight, fold-up unit is built for serious performance is its price. The Vantage Robotics Snap is available for preorder at $895 through September 22, at which point its price tag will jump to $1,295. The company also says the system was designed to be modular, with waterproof tracking modules, bigger battery packs, and range extenders in the works.