With the rise of drone technology, more and more people are taking to the skies to capture stunning aerial footage, explore new heights, and even participate in drone racing. But before you can join the drone revolution, you need to get your hands on one of these incredible machines. While online shopping is convenient, there’s something to be said for buying a drone in-store, where you can get hands-on with the product, ask expert advice, and take it home with you on the same day. So, where can you buy drones in stores?
Major Retailers
Some of the biggest retailers in the world now carry a range of drones from top manufacturers like DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec. Here are some major retailers where you can find drones in-store:
BEST BUY
Best Buy is one of the largest consumer electronics retailers in the world, and they carry a wide range of drones from top brands. You can find drones from DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec, as well as drone accessories and parts. With over 1,000 stores across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, there’s likely a Best Buy near you that carries drones.
WALMART
Walmart is another retail giant that carries drones in-store. You can find a limited selection of drones from brands like DJI and Holy Stone, as well as drone accessories and parts. With over 4,700 stores across the United States, there’s likely a Walmart near you that carries drones.
TARGET
Target is a popular retailer that carries a limited selection of drones from brands like DJI and Holy Stone. While their drone selection may not be as extensive as Best Buy or Walmart, they often offer competitive pricing and convenient store locations.
Specialty Stores
If you’re looking for a more specialized shopping experience, you may want to consider visiting a store that focuses on drones and drone accessories. These stores often carry a wider range of products and offer expert advice from knowledgeable staff.
DRONE WORLD
Drone World is a chain of stores that specializes in drones and drone accessories. With multiple locations across the United States, they offer a wide range of products from top brands like DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the right drone for your needs and even offer repair services for drones.
HORIZON HOBBY
Horizon Hobby is a leading retailer of radio control products, including drones. With multiple locations across the United States, they offer a wide range of drones from top brands like DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec, as well as drone accessories and parts. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the right drone for your needs and even offer tips and advice for getting started.
Camera Stores
If you’re looking for a drone with high-quality camera capabilities, you may want to consider visiting a camera store. These stores often carry a range of drones with advanced camera features, as well as expert advice from knowledgeable staff.
<h3&B&H PHOTO
B&H Photo is a leading retailer of photography and videography equipment, including drones. With a large store location in New York City and a strong online presence, they offer a wide range of drones from top brands like DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the right drone for your camera needs.
SAMY’S CAMERA
Samy’s Camera is a leading retailer of photography and videography equipment, including drones. With multiple locations across the United States, they offer a wide range of drones from top brands like DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the right drone for your camera needs.
What to Consider When Buying a Drone in-Store
When buying a drone in-store, there are several things to consider to ensure you get the right product for your needs. Here are some key factors to think about:
Product Knowledge: Look for stores with knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right drone for your needs. A good salesperson can answer questions, demonstrate products, and offer advice on how to get the most out of your drone.
Product Range: Consider the range of products available in-store. Do they carry drones from top brands like DJI, Parrot, and Yuneec? Do they offer a range of drone accessories and parts?
Price: Compare prices between different stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the location and availability of products.
Return Policy: Make sure you understand the return policy of the store in case you need to return or exchange your drone.
Support and Service: Consider the level of support and service offered by the store. Do they offer repair services, maintenance, and technical support?
Conclusion
Buying a drone in-store can be a great way to get hands-on with the product, ask expert advice, and take it home with you on the same day. From major retailers like Best Buy and Walmart to specialty stores like Drone World and Horizon Hobby, there are plenty of options to choose from. By considering factors like product knowledge, product range, price, return policy, and support and service, you can find the right drone for your needs and take to the skies with confidence. Happy flying!
What types of drones are available in stores?
Drones can be categorized into three main types: toy drones, photographic drones, and racing drones. Toy drones are recreational and perfect for beginners, while photographic drones are equipped with high-quality cameras for capturing stunning aerial footage. Racing drones are designed for speed and agility, ideal for drone racing enthusiasts.
When shopping for drones in stores, you’ll likely find a mix of these categories. Some stores may specialize in high-end photographic drones, while others may cater to beginners with toy drones. Be sure to research the store’s selection before visiting to ensure they carry the type of drone you’re looking for.
Do I need to assemble my drone?
Some drones require assembly, while others are ready to fly out of the box. When purchasing a drone in-store, the sales representative can inform you if assembly is required. If so, don’t worry – most drones come with detailed instructions, and the store may even offer assembly services or workshops.
Assembling your drone can be a fun and educational experience, but if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, consider purchasing a pre-assembled drone. Additionally, some stores may offer drone customization services, allowing you to upgrade or modify your drone’s components.
What is the average price range of drones in stores?
The average price range of drones in stores varies greatly, depending on the type, quality, and features. Toy drones can start as low as $20, while high-end photographic drones can exceed $1,000. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 to $500 for a recreational drone.
When setting a budget for your drone purchase, consider the features you need, such as camera quality, flight time, and durability. Additionally, factor in the cost of any additional accessories you may need, such as extra batteries or propellers.
Can I try out a drone before buying it?
Some stores may offer demo models or test flights, allowing you to try out a drone before purchasing it. This is especially useful if you’re new to drones or unsure about a particular model. However, not all stores may offer this service, so it’s essential to call ahead and confirm.
Trying out a drone before buying can give you a sense of the drone’s ease of use, flight performance, and overall quality. Take advantage of this opportunity to ask the sales representative any questions you may have and get a feel for the drone’s features.
What kind of customer support can I expect from drone stores?
Reputable drone stores typically offer customer support, including technical assistance, warranty services, and repair options. Some stores may also provide drone training or workshops, teaching you how to safely operate and maintain your drone.
When purchasing a drone, look for stores that offer comprehensive customer support, including online resources, phone support, and in-store assistance. This can be especially important if you’re new to drones or encounter any issues with your device.
Are drones in stores certified by the FAA?
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires drones to be registered and certified for recreational or commercial use. Reputable drone stores ensure that their products comply with FAA regulations, and some may even offer registration services or guidance.
When purchasing a drone in-store, make sure to ask about FAA certification and registration requirements. The sales representative can provide guidance on how to register your drone and ensure you’re flying legally and safely.
Can I return or exchange a drone if I’m not satisfied?
Return and exchange policies vary by store, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the store’s return policy before making a purchase. Some stores may offer a satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to return or exchange your drone within a certain timeframe.
Before buying, ask the sales representative about the store’s return and exchange policy, including any restocking fees or requirements. This can give you peace of mind and protect your investment in case you’re not satisfied with your drone.