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How to Buy a High-End Photography Drone

How to · Tech

How to Buy a High-End Photography Drone

Get the gear you need for aerial shots without overpaying by timing your purchase with new model cycles.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $900 before anything else
Across the 0% window $50.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $900 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

When you buy a drone, you want something that stays relevant for a few years so you aren't stuck upgrading every season. Focus on the sensor quality and flight stability rather than just the latest flashy camera features.

Drone brands usually drop new models in early summer. If you can wait until then, you can often grab the current top-tier model at a discount once the next version hits the shelves.

That 18-month window is a hard deadline, not a free pass. If you still have a balance after the 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Wait for summer

    Hold off until early summer when new models arrive. Last year’s flagship becomes a bargain as retailers clear out old inventory.

  2. 02

    Pick your model

    Look for drones that offer obstacle avoidance and raw image support. These features save you from crashing and make your photos look better in post-production.

  3. 03

    Use your credit card

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to break up the $900 cost. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening.

  4. 04

    Set your payment

    Divide the $900 by the 18-month window to get a monthly payment of $50.00. Set up an auto-pay for this amount so you stay on track.

  5. 05

    Account for insurance

    Drones are fragile and can disappear mid-flight. Factor in an extra $100 for a care plan or insurance so you aren't buying the drone twice.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

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

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I buy the newest drone?

Usually, no. Unless you need a specific new sensor, the previous model is almost always capable enough for hobbyist photography.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing payments can trigger penalty fees and might void your 0% interest rate. Always set up autopay for at least the minimum amount required.

Is a $900 drone overkill for a beginner?

Not if you plan on using it for more than a few months. Cheaper drones often lack stabilization, which makes learning to fly much more frustrating.

Does 0% interest mean I pay less?

No. It just means you aren't paying extra interest for the privilege of spreading the $900 cost out over 18 months.