Holy Stone HS360S GPS Drone Review
Overview
The Holy Stone HS360S is a feature-packed, lightweight drone designed for adults and beginner enthusiasts seeking a versatile and user-friendly aerial experience. With its 4K UHD camera, advanced GPS features, and impressive 10,000-foot control range, the HS360S makes a solid entry into drone flying without complex setups or FAA registration. This compact, foldable quadcopter brings together essential features at an affordable price, ideal for exploring basic aerial photography and videography.
Technical Specifications
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Feature | Details |
---|---|
Brand | Holy Stone |
Model Name | HS360S |
Camera Resolution | 4K UHD (3840x2160P) |
Sensor | 1/3” CMOS GalaxyCore Sensor |
Lens | 85° wide-angle, adjustable up to 90° |
Transmission Range | 10,000 feet (5G FPV Transmission) |
Special Features | GPS Follow Me, Auto Return, Lightweight Design, No FAA/Remote ID Registration Required |
Battery | Modular battery, approx. 20 minutes of flight time per charge |
Connectivity | WiFi Repeater, data cable connection to controller |
Flight Modes | Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, Point of Interest, Spiral Up, Catapult, 1-Tap Ascension |
Motor Type | Brushless Motor |
Weight | 8.7 ounces (under 250g, FAA registration not required) |
Included Components | Propellers, screwdriver, transmitter, type C/USB/lightning cables, 4K GPS drone battery, charging cable |
Skill Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
Age Range | Adult |
Color | Black |
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Key Features
- 4K UHD Camera with GalaxyCore Sensor
The HS360S features a 1/3″ CMOS GalaxyCore sensor that captures high-quality 4K photos and videos, providing crisp and vibrant visuals. The 85° wide-angle lens, adjustable by 90°, gives users a range of perspectives, although footage may lack stabilization due to the absence of a gimbal. - Lightweight and Registration-Free
Weighing less than 250 grams, the HS360S avoids FAA and Remote ID registration, making it travel-friendly and accessible for U.S. users without additional registration steps. - Long-Range 5G Transmission
With Holy Stone’s upgraded connectivity, the HS360S provides a 10,000-foot control range, allowing for stable FPV streaming through a direct data cable connection, which bypasses WiFi for enhanced reliability. - Advanced GPS with Return Home
GPS functionality offers secure flight stability and a “Return to Home” feature that activates when battery levels are low or if the drone loses connection, providing peace of mind for beginners exploring longer distances. - Multiple Flight Modes
In addition to Normal and Sport modes, the HS360S includes intelligent flight modes like “Follow Me,” “Waypoint Flight,” and “Point of Interest,” as well as automated recording options such as “Spiral Up” and “Catapult.”
Performance
- Flight Experience
Beginners find the HS360S intuitive to control, thanks to its GPS lock and beginner mode. The brushless motor operates quietly and efficiently, making it suitable for outdoor use. However, the absence of landing sensors can cause slight vertical instability during descent. - Battery Life
Each battery provides around 20 minutes of flight time, and additional batteries extend flight sessions for prolonged shooting opportunities.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable Entry-Level Option: An ideal choice for beginners seeking essential drone features at an accessible price.
- High-Resolution Camera: The 4K GalaxyCore sensor captures stunning visuals suitable for social media or casual projects.
- Extended Control Range: Up to 10,000 feet of transmission range with real-time image streaming enhances the flying experience.
- No Registration Needed: Lightweight build allows flight without FAA registration requirements in the U.S.
Cons
- No Gimbal for Stabilization: Lack of stabilization may impact video quality on windy days.
- Limited Advanced Features: Higher-end features like collision avoidance are not included, making it less suited for complex aerial environments.
- Minor Stability Issues: Some users report slight vertical movement during descent due to limited landing sensors.
Buy Now
If you’re ready to explore the skies and capture stunning 4K visuals, the Holy Stone HS360S could be your ideal first drone. Its budget-friendly price and essential features make it a great choice for beginners and casual flyers alike.
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Conclusion
The Holy Stone HS360S is an exceptional beginner drone, offering essential functions with ease of use and reliability. For those entering the world of aerial photography, it provides solid value with 4K camera capabilities, a long control range, and intelligent flight modes. While it may not suit professionals needing advanced stabilization or obstacle avoidance, the HS360S is a fantastic choice for newcomers seeking reliable performance in an affordable package.