Holy Stone HS440 Foldable FPV Drone with 1080P WiFi Camera for Beginners

Sean N. Seattle, WA

April 8, 2025

Decision:

I picked this up from the store for convenience, and my first impression was that it's a solid choice for someone dipping their toes into drones. As an older guy with a background in marketing and a love for DIY, I appreciate things that just work without fuss. This drone does that—it's super straightforward to set up and fly, and my kid even gave it a whirl without any issues. The camera tilts nicely for different angles, and the automatic functions mean I don't have to sweat the small stuff. But, being critical, it's not without flaws; the controls can feel a bit sluggish, and I wish it had more oomph for faster maneuvers. Overall, it's a good entry-level option that delivers on its promises, though it won't replace a high-end model. I'd recommend it for beginners, but advanced users might find it lacking.

• Pros: The camera captures surprisingly clear and wide views, making it super easy to get great shots from the air. It folds up small and comes with a handy case, so it's a real workhorse for taking on trips. The battery lasts a good while, giving plenty of time to explore without constant recharging. For a beginner like me, features like automatic takeoff and hovering make it seem almost foolproof to fly.
• Cons: Despite the ease of use, it can still be a bit tricky to control in windy conditions, and I've had a few close calls with trees—those safety features aren't perfect. The video quality is decent but not top-notch, and the range feels limited at times. It seems a bit fragile for rough handling, which might not hold up well over time.