They whirr through the air, sometimes fly faster and sometimes slower, climb up and then sink back down to the ground: drones are not only enjoying increasing popularity among adults – children are also very fond of the small quadrocopters.
A so-called quadrocopter is an unmanned drone that can fly up and down, forwards and backwards through the air with the help of four propellers arranged side by side (which work vertically downwards). There is now a large selection of different models, with and without an integrated camera – but not all are suitable for children. On the contrary: According to an EU implementing regulation, a minimum age of 16 years applies to drones that weigh more than 250 grams. In addition, these are subject to a labeling requirement and must be registered with the responsible authority. This article explains which models have been marked as “toys” and are therefore also approved for children without registration.
These drones are suitable for children and beginners
1. This 191 gram lightweight drone for kids has three different speed levels and an altitude hold mode – that is, the quadcopter can hold a certain height when flying. According to the manufacturer, the model is suitable for amateurs as well as advanced pilots. Take-off and landing are possible at the push of a button, and the mini drone also has an emergency button so that it can be landed quickly in an emergency. The average flight time is twelve minutes, after which the model has to be recharged. You can get the drone here.
2. In contrast to the other drones, this model with a cool motorcycle design can not only fly in the air, but also slide over the ground. It has two different game modes and either takes off vertically or drives directly forwards, backwards or sideways. The pilot himself can decide which tricks the mini drone should perform – such as flips and rolls. The weight is 600 grams, but the manufacturer has labeled the model as a drone for children. You can get the drone here.
3. This drone is significantly more expensive and not without reason: The quadrocopter was equipped with a camera that can be swiveled by 75 degrees and has a 120-degree viewing angle. This should make great landscape shots possible from the air. When fully charged, the battery can fly for a maximum of 18 minutes at a time, and this model also has a “Follow me” mode that is GPS-controlled. The drone for indoor and outdoor use weighs 222 grams and is suitable (according to the manufacturer) for children aged 14 and over. You can get the drone here.
4. Safety is a top priority with this drone: the four propellers are equipped with a robust protective cover so that your child cannot injure themselves. After the quadrocopter is turned on, it can be controlled either by hand (by approaching the drone with your hands, it will fly in the opposite direction) or by using the remote control. To turn them off, simply turn the model upside down. The flight time is a maximum of 30 minutes. You can get the drone here.
5. Made of durable ABS material, this mini drone weighs 200 grams, making it legal for children under 16 years old. It runs on batteries and can be controlled either by hand or by remote control. Thanks to the integrated infrared sensor technology, the quadrocopter should – according to the manufacturer – react faster when obstacles are in its way. Other features of the drone include a headless mode, 360 degree flips and three speed modes. The maximum range is 50 meters away. You can get the drone here.
Important safety tips for small drone owners
In order to prevent both the drone and your children from being injured while playing, you should observe the following safety precautions:
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