The world of drones has witnessed a significant surge in popularity over the past few years, and it’s not hard to see why. These incredible machines have opened up new avenues for aerial photography, videography, and even recreational activities. However, with so many different models and brands available, it can be overwhelming to find the right drone that fits your needs and budget. If you’re searching for “what stores sell drones near me,” you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the top retailers, both online and offline, that sell drones, and provide you with valuable insights to make an informed purchase.
Online Retailers That Sell Drones
In today’s digital age, online shopping has become the norm. You can find almost anything online, including drones. Here are some of the top online retailers that sell drones:
Amazon
Amazon is the undisputed king of online retail, and when it comes to drones, they have an impressive collection. With over 10,000 drone-related products, you can find everything from beginner-friendly models to high-end professional drones. Amazon offers competitive pricing, fast shipping, and a reliable return policy, making it a top choice for drone enthusiasts.
B&H Photo
B&H Photo is a well-known retailer specializing in photography and videography equipment. They have an extensive range of drones from top brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Autel. B&H Photo offers expert advice, competitive pricing, and a 30-day return policy.
Best Buy
Best Buy is a popular retailer that sells a wide range of electronics, including drones. They offer a selection of drones from brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Skyrocket. Best Buy provides competitive pricing, in-store demos, and a 15-day return policy.
Walmart
Walmart is another retail giant that sells drones online. They offer a limited but affordable selection of drones from brands like Holy Stone, DBPOWER, and UDI. Walmart provides competitive pricing, in-store pickups, and a 15-day return policy.
eBay
eBay is an online marketplace where you can find new and used drones from various sellers. While prices can vary, eBay offers a wide selection of drones from top brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Parrot. Be cautious when purchasing from individual sellers, and make sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before making a purchase.
Offline Retailers That Sell Drones
Sometimes, it’s nice to touch and feel the product before making a purchase. If you prefer to shop in-store, here are some offline retailers that sell drones:
Best Buy
Best Buy has physical stores across the United States and Canada, making it easy to find a store near you. They offer a selection of drones from brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Skyrocket. Best Buy provides expert advice, in-store demos, and a 15-day return policy.
Walmart
Walmart has thousands of stores across the United States and Canada, making it one of the most accessible retailers. They offer a limited but affordable selection of drones from brands like Holy Stone, DBPOWER, and UDI. Walmart provides competitive pricing, in-store assistance, and a 15-day return policy.
HobbyTown
HobbyTown is a hobby store chain with over 100 locations across the United States. They offer a wide range of drones from brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Blade. HobbyTown provides expert advice, in-store demos, and a 30-day return policy.
RadioShack
RadioShack is an electronics retailer with over 1,500 stores across the United States. They offer a limited selection of drones from brands like DJI and Yuneec. RadioShack provides competitive pricing, in-store assistance, and a 15-day return policy.
Specialty Drone Stores
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive selection of drones or expert advice from drone enthusiasts, consider visiting specialty drone stores. These stores often cater to professionals and serious hobbyists, offering high-end models, customization, and repair services.
Drone Nerds
Drone Nerds is a Florida-based retailer with several stores across the United States. They offer an extensive range of drones from top brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Autel. Drone Nerds provides expert advice, customization services, and a 30-day return policy.
Drone Pilots
Drone Pilots is a California-based retailer with several stores across the United States. They offer a wide range of drones from brands like DJI, Yuneec, and Parrot. Drone Pilots provides expert advice, repair services, and a 30-day return policy.
What to Consider When Buying a Drone
Before making a purchase, consider the following factors to ensure you find the right drone for your needs:
Budget
Drones can range from under $100 to over $10,000, so it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. Consider the features you need, and don’t overspend on a drone that exceeds your requirements.
Purpose
Define your purpose for buying a drone. Are you looking for a recreational drone or a professional-grade model for aerial photography or videography? Different drones cater to different needs, so it’s crucial to identify your purpose.
Features
Consider the features you need, such as camera quality, flight time, range, and obstacle avoidance. Make a list of essential features, and look for drones that meet your requirements.
Brand and Quality
Research the brand and read reviews to ensure you’re buying a high-quality drone. Look for brands with a reputation for producing reliable and durable drones.
Return Policy
Check the return policy of the retailer before making a purchase. A good return policy can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Conclusion
Finding the right drone can be a daunting task, but by considering the factors mentioned above and exploring online and offline retailers, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed purchase. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced drone enthusiast, there’s a drone out there for you. Take to the skies, and explore the exciting world of drones!
| Online Retailer | Features | Return Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Wide selection, competitive pricing | 30-day return policy |
| B&H Photo | Expert advice, wide selection | 30-day return policy |
| Best Buy | In-store demos, competitive pricing | 15-day return policy |
| Walmart | Affordable prices, in-store pickups | 15-day return policy |
| eBay | Wide selection, competitive pricing | Varies by seller |
Note: The return policies mentioned above are subject to change and may vary depending on the retailer’s terms and conditions.
Q: What types of drones are available in stores?
Drones can be broadly categorized into two types: toy drones and professional drones. Toy drones are smaller, lighter, and more affordable, making them perfect for beginners and hobbyists. They usually come with a built-in camera and can perform basic aerial stunts. Professional drones, on the other hand, are designed for aerial photography and videography. They are equipped with high-quality cameras, GPS, and other advanced features, making them ideal for professionals and serious enthusiasts.
When shopping for drones, you’ll also come across different categories such as racing drones, FPV (first-person view) drones, and drones with obstacle avoidance systems. Each type of drone is designed to cater to specific needs and purposes. When choosing a drone, consider your level of expertise, intended use, and budget to ensure you get the right one for your needs.
Q: What features should I look for when buying a drone?
When buying a drone, there are several features to consider to ensure you get the right one for your needs. First, consider the camera resolution and quality. If you plan to use your drone for aerial photography or videography, look for drones with high-resolution cameras (at least 1080p) and features like image stabilization and adjustable angle. Next, consider the drone’s range and flight time. If you plan to fly your drone over long distances, look for drones with an extended range (at least 1 mile) and long flight times (at least 20 minutes).
Additionally, consider the drone’s durability, weather resistance, and obstacle avoidance features. If you’re a beginner, look for drones with beginner-friendly features like automatic takeoff and landing, one-touch flips, and emergency hovering. You should also consider the drone’s weight, size, and portability. If you plan to travel with your drone, look for lightweight and compact options.
Q: Are drones illegal to fly?
In most countries, drones are not illegal to fly, but there are certain regulations and guidelines you must follow to ensure safe and responsible flying. In the United States, for example, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires recreational drone pilots to register their drones and follow specific rules, such as flying below 400 feet, staying away from airports, and avoiding flying over people or crowded areas.
Commercial drone pilots, on the other hand, require a Part 107 license and must follow more stringent regulations. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with local drone laws and regulations before flying your drone. You can check with your local authorities or online resources like the FAA’s B4UFLY app to determine the specific drone laws in your area.
Q: Can I return or exchange a drone if I’m not satisfied?
Most drone stores offer a return or exchange policy, but the specifics may vary depending on the store. Some stores may have a 30-day return window, while others may allow returns within a shorter or longer period. It’s essential to check the store’s return policy before making a purchase, especially if you’re new to drones.
If you’re not satisfied with your drone, you can usually return it for a full or partial refund or exchange it for a different model. However, be sure to carefully review the store’s return policy and follow the necessary procedures to avoid any issues. You may need to provide a reason for the return, and the store may charge a restocking fee.
Q: Do I need to assemble my drone or is it ready to fly?
Some drones come ready to fly out of the box, while others may require assembly or configuration before flying. Toy drones and beginner drones are usually ready to fly, with minimal setup required. Professional drones, on the other hand, may require more assembly and configuration, such as attaching propellers or calibrating the compass.
If you’re new to drones, it’s recommended to choose a ready-to-fly drone to avoid any confusion or frustration. However, if you’re comfortable with assembling and configuring your drone, you may be able to save money by opting for a DIY kit.
Q: Can I purchase drone accessories at the same store?
Most drone stores offer a range of drone accessories, including spare parts, batteries, propellers, and carrying cases. You can usually purchase these accessories at the same store where you bought your drone or online from the manufacturer’s website. Some stores may also offer bundles or packages that include the drone and essential accessories.
Purchasing drone accessories from the same store or manufacturer can ensure compatibility and authenticity. However, you may be able to find cheaper or compatible accessories from third-party sellers. Be sure to research and compare prices before making a purchase.
Q: Do drone stores offer customer support or repairs?
Reputable drone stores usually offer customer support and repair services to help you troubleshoot any issues with your drone. You can usually contact the store’s customer support team via phone, email, or online chat. Some stores may also have a knowledge base or FAQs section on their website to help you resolve common issues.
If your drone requires repairs, you can usually send it back to the store or manufacturer for fixing. Some stores may offer repair services or warranties, while others may charge a fee for repairs. Be sure to check the store’s customer support and repair policies before making a purchase.