Drones have become a major must-have among professional photographers and videographers, but it’s also a lot of fun for casual use and hobbyists alike. 

Here, we are going to take a look at the details of the two most popular drones you can get for under $500 and help you decide which one is best for you – the DJI Spark or the Parrot Bebop 2.

Here at UVS-info, We will provide you with an in-depth comparison between DJi Spark and Parrot Bebop 2, if you’re interested to know more, keep reading.

TLDR: DJi Spark vs Parrot Bebop 2

DJi Spark Overview

Product Description

The DJI Spark was designed to be a consumer drone with features that would rival that of the higher-end models. 

One of the most noticeable differences with this model as compared to the higher-end models is the ability to control the drone through your mobile phone. Having a separate controller that attaches to your phone is an option that can extend the maximum control distance. 

For quick use-and-go situations, you can even use hand gestures to command it to take photos, record videos, move further away, and return home to name a few.

The camera onboard the DJI Spark is a 1080p HD camera. Although it’s not true 4K quality, DJI has always done a good job in the camera of their drones and this model is no exception. The image quality is sharp and you can take stable shots with the help of its 2-axis gimbal.

The DJI Spark has a lot of awesome technology with its small size.

One of these technologies is the obstacle avoidance feature which warns the user of any potential barriers in its flight path by tracking any objects in front of it. 

Active tracking is also a feature derived from the higher-end DJI models which allow the subject to move freely in an area while the drone follows that subject, capturing it anywhere it goes. 

Getting all these high-end features with this consumer model is probably one of its biggest selling points. 

Pros

• Lightweight
• Quick launch with face aware, DJI Spark can lift off from the palm of your hand by recognizing your face
• With Hand gesture controls to take photos with convenience
• Intelligent flight modes and intuitive controls
• DJI GO 4 app provides templates and vast choices of filters for quick editing
• Precise flight control despite its small size
• Features ActiveTrack, for more reliable photos and videos. 
• Mechanical gimbal stabilization for keeping shots stable and detailed 

Cons

• Just around 16mins flight time per battery pack
• At the higher price range in its category
• Remote controller sold separately 

Interested? Here’s where you can buy it!

Parrot Bebop 2 Overview

Product Description

The Parrot Bebop 2 was designed to strike balance between professional and amateur hobbyists with features that can rival that of higher-end models as well. 

It is easy to use, you can control it through an app using your mobile phone or tablet. A controller is also an option that will significantly enhance your overall experience of piloting the drone. 

One practical design of Bebop 2 and its controller is the ability to swap the batteries in case the drone runs low. The controller comes with fighter jet-like handles and First Person View (FPV) goggles that enhance the flight experience. 

One of the most practical advantages of the Bebop 2 over its rivals in its category is the flight time. The Parrot Bebop 2 surpasses 20 minutes of flight time, way more than that of DJI Spark’s 15mins. 

This means more fun, more one-of-a-kind shots, and more creativity with the Bebop 2.

The Parrot Bebop 2 is a great midway point for someone who just wants to take cool photos or video shots without spending too much.

Pros

• More affordable 
• More than 20 minutes of flight time
• Stable no matter what conditions with its 3-axis digital stabilization system
• Features an automatic return home function

Cons

• Bulkier than DJI Spark
• The remote is big and heavy
• Some users losing control around the 150-meter range

Cheapest price found from this seller on Amazon!

In-Depth Comparison: DJi Spark vs Parrot Bebop 2 

DJi Spark

Specifications

Camera: 1/2.3″ Sensor, 12MP

Video capture resolution: FHD 1080p video

Flight Time: 16mins

Max Control Distance: 2km

Max Speed: 30mph

Weight: 300g

Gimbal: 2-axis

Obstacle Avoidance sensors: Yes

GPS: Yes

Parrot Bebop 2

Specifications

Camera: 14-megapixel fish-eye lens

Video capture resolution: FHD 1080p video

Flight Time: 25 mins

Max Control Distance: 300meters

Max Speed: 31mph

Weight: 500g

Gimbal: No

GPS: Yes

 

What Do People Say About It?

Amazon

DJI Spark garnered a quite high rating on Amazon, a reviewer from the United States wrote:

“I have a few DJI drones, I believe this one is the best for the price, lots of technology packed into this Lil drone, great camera and flight operation, may want a few extra batteries though, also lights on spark are cool too, Happy flying!”

While Parrot Bebop 2 has also a good rating on Amazon, a reviewer from the United States wrote:

“My daughter loves drones. This is by far the best one we’ve gotten her. It costs more but MUCH better quality so worth the money!”

YouTube 

A Youtuber from AuthenTech – Ben Schmanke made a review about DJi spark where he mentioned: 

“Overall, the photos and videos look dang good on such a small camera. Dji has also include smart shooting mode, like active track, which has always been one of my favorites. 

However, he also mentioned that “ I wish that the camera could record 4k video, but the camera is still really good at 12 MP. Also, I wish that the arms could fold in so it could easily fit in my pocket.” 

While a YouTuber from StateofTech named Jerad Hill, made a review about Parrot Bebop 2 where he mentioned:

“The remote is big and kind of clunky, it is a big heavy remote, it is super wide. This is more of a fighter pilot setup. However, he also mentioned that “I like the feel, gives you a more futuristic feel with the controls. A little heavy, which is why you wanna used that strap… Flying this drone was fun, very responsive, and locked on GPS, I love that the automated takeoff landing was very smooth. Lightweight, pretty fast and pretty durable and fun to fly”

The Verdict: Which One is Better?

Both the DJI Spark and the Parrot Bebop 2 are quality drones built by reputable companies in their respective industries.

The DJI Spark is the most affordable and smallest camera drone in DJI’s lineup but it is certainly not of poor built. One can immediately tell that the materials used are of superior quality and were meant to last with normal use.

However, the small frame size feels like it could damage the internal components with a couple of hard crashes. The Parrot Bebop 2, on the other hand, is a more normal-sized drone equally built with quality materials. It feels sturdier and more durable than the DJI Spark in handling hard crashes.

Both the DJI Spark and Parrot Bebop 2 can handle almost all the necessities you would expect in a drone. 

The added features are probably the most important game-changer in choosing between these two. 

DJI is known to be more advanced in this aspect, that is why the DJI Spark can rival some higher-end models despite its small frame. 

The DJI Spark packs all the features the Parrot Bebop 2 can bring such as the auto-follow modes plus more. The hand gesture mode is one feature of the DJI Spark that sets it apart. It allows for a quick launch and activation without needing a separate controller or mobile phone app.

Although the battery life is also a major consideration, wherein the Parrot Bebop 2 is a clear winner, we think the DJI Spark overall is the best choice in its category. 

DJI Spark’s battery will suffice most of its intended use and a quick battery change with the included spare battery can compensate for the lack of flight time. The Parrot Bebop 2’s shorter control distance is also a deal-breaker since some consumers already reported routinely losing control of it beyond the 150-meter range.

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