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Holy Stone HS720E Review
An honest look at the Holy Stone HS720E drone: who it's for, who should skip it, real specs, flight performance, camera quality, battery, value, and how it compares to rivals.
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The Holy Stone HS720E is a solid entry-level GPS drone that balances ease of use, safety features, and 4K video quality at a price that undercuts most rivals. It's ideal for beginners and hobbyists who want a reliable flyer without breaking the bank. However, it lacks advanced features like obstacle avoidance and has a shorter flight time than some competitors, so experienced pilots may want to look elsewhere.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Excellent GPS features like return-to-home and follow me
- 4K camera with EIS (electronic image stabilization) for smooth footage
- Easy to fly for beginners with multiple flight modes
- Good flight time for the price (up to 23 minutes)
- Includes two batteries in the package for extended flying
- Foldable and portable design with carrying case
- No obstacle avoidance sensors, so you must fly carefully
- Camera quality is not as sharp as higher-end models in low light
- No 3-axis gimbal, only EIS, which can cause some jello effect in wind
- App can be finicky on some phones
- Plastic build feels less premium than DJI drones
The Holy Stone HS720E is one of the most popular drones in the sub-$300 range, and for good reason. It packs a 4K camera, GPS features, and a foldable design into a lightweight frame. But is it the right drone for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest review. We did not test the drone hands-on, but we analyzed thousands of user reviews and expert opinions to provide a comprehensive overview.
Who Is the Holy Stone HS720E For?
The HS720E is designed for beginners and hobbyists who want a capable drone without the high price tag of premium models. It's ideal for capturing scenic footage, practicing aerial photography, or just having fun flying. If you're new to drones, the HS720E offers a forgiving flight experience with GPS-assisted features that help prevent losing your drone.
However, if you're a professional photographer or videographer, you'll likely be disappointed by the lack of a mechanical gimbal and the average low-light performance. This drone is best suited for casual use and learning.
Design and Build Quality
The HS720E features a foldable design that makes it easy to transport. The arms fold in to reduce its size, and it comes with a carrying case that fits the drone, controller, batteries, and accessories. The build is made of plastic, which keeps the weight down to 249 grams, but it doesn't feel as premium as aluminum or carbon fiber. That said, it feels sturdy enough for gentle use.
The controller is ergonomic and has a phone holder on top. It has a comfortable grip and clearly labeled buttons. The app, called Holy Stone, is available for iOS and Android and offers a live view, camera settings, and flight modes. Some users report connection issues with the app, but most find it works well after a quick setup.
Camera and Image Quality
The HS720E boasts a 4K UHD camera that can capture video at 3840x2160 resolution. It also has a 12MP photo mode. The camera uses electronic image stabilization (EIS) instead of a mechanical gimbal. While EIS helps smooth out minor vibrations, it can't fully eliminate jello effect in windy conditions. In good lighting, the footage looks sharp and vibrant, but in low light, you'll notice noise and a loss of detail.
For the price, the camera is decent, but it's not on par with the DJI Mini 2, which has a 3-axis gimbal and better dynamic range. If you plan to edit and share videos on social media, the HS720E will suffice, but don't expect cinematic quality.
Flight Performance and Handling
The HS720E is equipped with GPS and GLONASS, which enables precise positioning, return-to-home, and follow-me modes. It has a maximum flight time of 23 minutes per battery, which is respectable for this class. The drone also has altitude hold and one-key takeoff and landing, making it easy for beginners to operate.
In terms of handling, the HS720E responds well to inputs and has three speed modes: low, medium, and high. The high-speed mode can reach up to 30 mph, which is good for a drone in this category. The remote control has a range of up to 1000 meters, but in real-world conditions, you'll likely get around 500 meters in open areas.
One drawback is the lack of obstacle avoidance. You'll need to be careful when flying near trees or buildings, especially in GPS mode where the drone may drift slightly.
Battery and Charging
The HS720E comes with two 2800mAh batteries, each providing up to 23 minutes of flight time. That's a combined total of about 46 minutes, which is great for a budget drone. The batteries take around 60 minutes to charge each, so you'll need to plan your flights accordingly. The package includes a charging hub that can charge two batteries simultaneously, but it requires a separate power source.
We recommend purchasing an extra set of batteries if you plan to fly for extended periods, as the charging time can be a bottleneck.
Common Buyer Complaints
While the HS720E has many positive reviews, there are some recurring complaints. The most common issues include:
- App connectivity problems: Some users experience disconnections or difficulty connecting their phone to the controller.
- Camera quality in low light: The EIS and sensor struggle in dim conditions, resulting in grainy footage.
- No obstacle avoidance: Several users mentioned accidental collisions when flying in tight spaces.
- Battery life in windy conditions: The flight time can drop significantly in windy weather.
- Plastic build: Some users feel the drone is not as durable as metal alternatives, but it's acceptable for the price.
These complaints are not deal-breakers for most buyers, but they are worth considering before you purchase.
Comparison with Alternatives
The Holy Stone HS720E competes with other sub-$300 drones like the Potensic ATOM and the Ruko F11 Pro. The Potensic ATOM offers a similar feature set but has a slightly better camera with a gimbal. The Ruko F11 Pro has a longer flight time (30 minutes) and a 4K camera, but it's heavier and requires registration. The DJI Mini 2 is a step up in quality and price, offering a 3-axis gimbal, better app, and superior image quality, but it costs significantly more.
For beginners, the HS720E is a great value because it includes two batteries and a carrying case, which are often sold separately with other drones. If you're willing to spend more, the DJI Mini 2 is the better choice for serious enthusiasts.
Value for Money
The HS720E offers excellent value for its price. You get a 4K camera, GPS features, two batteries, and a carrying case, all for a budget-friendly cost. It's an ideal first drone for someone who wants to learn without investing in a high-end model. However, if you think you'll outgrow it quickly, you might want to invest in a more advanced drone from the start.
Final Verdict
The Holy Stone HS720E is a reliable, feature-packed drone that delivers on its promises for beginners and casual flyers. It has its limitations, but for the price, it's hard to beat. If you're looking for an affordable way to start your drone journey, the HS720E is a smart choice. Just be aware of its shortcomings and fly responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Holy Stone HS720E require FAA registration?
No, the HS720E weighs 249g, which is under the 250g threshold for FAA registration. However, you must still follow all FAA rules, such as flying below 400 feet and keeping the drone in sight.
How long does the battery last on the HS720E?
Each battery provides up to 23 minutes of flight time, but real-world conditions like wind and aggressive flying can reduce that. The package includes two batteries, giving you roughly 46 minutes of total flight time.
Does the HS720E have obstacle avoidance?
No, the HS720E does not have obstacle avoidance sensors. It relies on GPS and visual positioning to maintain stability, but you must manually avoid obstacles. This is common in this price range.
Can the HS720E fly in windy conditions?
The HS720E can handle light to moderate winds (up to about 12 mph). Stronger winds can affect stability and image quality. It's best to fly in calm conditions for the best results.
Is the HS720E good for beginners?
Yes, the HS720E is very beginner-friendly. It has multiple flight modes, including altitude hold, GPS positioning, and one-key takeoff and landing. The included instructions and practice modes help new pilots learn quickly.
Specs that matter
| Camera | 4K UHD, 3840x2160, with EIS |
| Gimbal | None, uses EIS |
| Flight time | Up to 23 minutes per battery |
| Battery | 7.6V 2800mAh Li-ion, 2 included |
| Range | Up to 1000 meters (3280 feet) |
| Weight | Under 250g (249g) for FAA registration |
You are a beginner or casual flyer who wants a reliable GPS drone with 4K video, easy controls, and safety features like return-to-home, all without spending a fortune.
You need advanced features like obstacle avoidance, a mechanical gimbal for professional-grade footage, or longer flight times. Also skip if you plan to fly in strong winds or low-light conditions frequently.
Questions before you buy
Does the Holy Stone HS720E require FAA registration?
No, the HS720E weighs 249g, which is under the 250g threshold for FAA registration. However, you must follow all other FAA rules, such as flying below 400 feet and keeping the drone in sight.
How long does the battery last on the HS720E?
Each battery provides up to 23 minutes of flight time, but real-world conditions like wind and aggressive flying can reduce that. The package includes two batteries, giving you roughly 46 minutes of total flight time.
Does the HS720E have obstacle avoidance?
No, the HS720E does not have obstacle avoidance sensors. It relies on GPS and visual positioning to maintain stability, but you must manually avoid obstacles. This is common in this price range.
Can the HS720E fly in windy conditions?
The HS720E can handle light to moderate winds (up to about 12 mph). Stronger winds can affect stability and image quality. It's best to fly in calm conditions for the best results.
Is the HS720E good for beginners?
Yes, the HS720E is very beginner-friendly. It has multiple flight modes, including altitude hold, GPS positioning, and one-key takeoff and landing. The included instructions and practice modes help new pilots learn quickly.
