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How to Buy a High-Quality Nature Drone

How to · Tech

How to Buy a High-Quality Nature Drone

Get the right gear for your photography while spreading the cost over 18 months without interest.

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.

A high-quality drone is an investment in your craft that should last you several years of field work. Buying the right model once saves you the headache of replacing budget gear that fails when you are miles into the backcountry.

Check the release cycles for major manufacturers before you buy. If a new version is coming out in a few weeks, last year's model will likely drop in price, giving you the same performance for less money.

That 0% window is a hard deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance once the 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on whatever remains, which is the fastest way to turn a good deal into an expensive mistake.

The steps

  1. 01

    Check the release dates

    Look at the manufacturer's history for how often they update your target model. If a new drone is expected within two months, wait for the drop to save cash or get the new features.

  2. 02

    Compare the specs

    Focus on flight time and sensor size rather than just the megapixel count. A larger sensor will give you better nature shots in low light, which is where most hobbyist drones fall short.

  3. 03

    Use your payment window

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to cover the $900 cost. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, letting you break the total into manageable $50 monthly payments.

  4. 04

    Set up autopay

    Divide your total by the 18-month window to get your monthly target. Set up an automatic payment for that amount so you stay on track to clear the balance before the offer expires.

  5. 05

    Account for insurance

    Drones crash, especially when filming nature. Put some of your budget aside for a protection plan or a dedicated insurance policy so one bad landing doesn't ruin your finances.

  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?

Only if the new model has a major hardware upgrade like a better camera sensor. Otherwise, last year's model is usually just as capable for nature photography.

Does the 0% offer apply to everything?

It applies to the purchase price, but you still need to make your minimum payments every month to keep the deal active. Don't skip a month just because the interest is paused.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% deal early and trigger penalty fees. Stay on top of your due dates to keep the terms you signed up for.

Is a drone worth $900?

For nature photography, yes. Cheaper drones often lack the stability, battery life, and image quality needed to get professional-looking shots in outdoor conditions.