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How to Buy Your First Drone

How to · Tech

How to Buy Your First Drone

Get a stabilized camera for under $650 by timing the market and using a smart payment plan.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $650 before anything else
Across the 0% window $43.33/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $650 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

You want a drone that stays steady in the air so your footage doesn't look like a shaky home movie. Buy a reliable entry-level model now, and it will last you for years if you treat it well.

Drone companies drop new models on a schedule, usually in the spring or fall. Wait until the next version hits the store, then grab last year's model while retailers clear out their old inventory at a discount.

The 0% intro APR is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance after 15 months, the bank will start charging interest on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Set your price alert

    Pick the specific drone model you want. Use a price tracking site to watch for drops. Don't pull the trigger until you see the price dip near $650.

  2. 02

    Check the release calendar

    Search for news on when your target drone brand launches new gear. Retailers drop prices on older stock the moment the new version is announced to make room on their shelves.

  3. 03

    Use your Discover it® Cash Back

    Pay for the drone using your Discover it® Cash Back card. You get 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, which lets you pay off that $650 over time without interest charges.

  4. 04

    Automate your payments

    Divide your total cost by 15. Set up an automatic payment of $43.33 each month to clear the debt before the intro period ends.

  5. 05

    Factor in accessories

    Your budget needs to cover more than just the drone. Set aside extra cash for a spare battery, a sturdy carrying case, and a fast memory card.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Do I really need a stabilized camera?

Yes, unless you enjoy watching blurry, jittery footage. Electronic or mechanical stabilization makes your video look smooth even when the drone is fighting the wind.

Is it worth buying a used drone?

It can be, but be careful. Drones take a beating, so check the motor health and verify the camera gimbal works perfectly before you hand over any money.

What happens if I crash it?

Most entry-level drones are not cheap to fix. Look into a third-party insurance plan or fly in an open field away from trees and power lines while you are learning.

Why 15 months?

That is the specific window the Discover it® Cash Back card offers for this offer. It is plenty of time to pay off $650 without feeling a pinch in your monthly budget.