Which drone is best?
This question is one of the most intricate in the drone industry and has been since its inception. The complexity arises from the industry's broad scope and various facets. Additionally, drones are marketed by manufacturers as being suitable for all applications, when they are often only designed for specific operations.
To answer this question accurately, consider applying three principles:
Begin with the application - Drones can capture photos, videos, thermal data, multispectral and hyperspectral images, lidar, and ground-penetrating radar. Determine what you need to capture. For instance, if capturing video, consider its final use—whether for a website, social media, or news broadcast. Once clear on your goal, proceed to the next step.
Select a sensor that makes sense - It is important to note that a broadcast-quality camera is not necessary for creating videos intended for social media. After determining your specific requirements, you can make informed decisions regarding resolution, frame rates, and other relevant features to guide your sensor selection. In some cases, this process may conclude at this stage, as certain sensors are integrated into drones. If the required sensor is already available in an off-the-shelf aircraft, the choice is straightforward. Once the appropriate sensor has been identified, proceed to the final principle.
Choose the smallest aircraft that can carry your sensor - Larger aircraft increase costs for training, batteries, insurance, and the aircraft itself.
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