Forget DJI – this beginner drone is better equipped and now costs less in the Black Friday sales
One of the few remaining DJI drone rivals Ruko is discounting hard
It's no easy task to find an alternative to DJI's drones, but Ruko has given it a good go. And I've found a really interesting deal for one of its beginner drones – the Ruko F11GIM2 for $219.99 at Amazon (was $499.99).
I haven't personally tested the Ruko F11GIM2, but we have reviewed the brand's Bwine F7GB2 drone favorably, and our sister site, Digital Camera World, reviewed the Ruko F11 Pro 2. However, the Ruko F11GIM2's features look majorly impressive: 4K 30fps video, 2-axis gimbal, level 6 wind resistance, and 32-minute battery life.
On paper, it could beat a drone like the DJI Mini 4K – my favorite beginner drone, which costs more for its standard bundle, let alone the Fly More Combo with extra batteries, as you get in this deal – although the reality could be very different.
The F11GIM2 is not the kind of drone that I would splash out $500 for, but $220? That's another story. And with DJI's US ban finally set for December 23, it could be an even better prospect.
There's still time for DJI purchases, mind you, and for more deals from the leading drone maker, check out my Black Friday DJI deals roundup. For all other tech deals, be sure to check out TechRadar’s live Black Friday coverage.
(Not in the US? See today's best deals in your region below)
Today's best Ruko F11 Pro Black Friday deal
Combine a $200 price cut with an $80 coupon (applied at checkout), and the Ruko F11GIM2 falls to just $219.99, and that's for a bundle which includes a controller (with LCD display), 3x batteries, carry case, and spare propellers.
More beginner drone deals
The Mini 4K is the best first drone for most people – I should know because I bought one and reviewed it. You don't get object sensing like in the Mini 4 Pro, but the Mini 4K is smaller, lighter, and muc,h much cheaper, and still shoots 4K video. The current Black Friday price matches the record-low.
Recently updated with the Neo 2, the Neo is still a top pick at this new low price. It features 4K video, clever subject tracking skills, a tiny 135g build, propeller guards, multiple flight control options – yes, the Neo is heaps of fun and now 20% off in this no-brainer deal. There are also deals for two Fly More Combos: a three-battery and charging hub bundle for $229 (was $289) or one with all of that plus the (screen-less) RC-N3 controller for $279 (was $349). Usually, I recommend Fly More Combos, but given the Neo works without a controller, you might just be able to do without and opt for the base bundle.
It's a little old now, but the DJI Mini 3 remains a top small and lightweight drone that's ideal for beginners, and one of the few DJI drones easily found in the US. Right now, it's available for just $335. Alternatively, grab it with the excellent RC 2 remote for $439 (was $549) or in the Fly More Bundle for $575 (was $719) – all new low prices.
Shop more of today's best Black Friday sales in the US
- Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
- Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
- Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
- Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
- Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
- Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
- Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
- Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
- Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
- T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
- Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
- Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor
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Tim joined the TechRadar team as Cameras Editor in 2023 and has enjoyed more than 15 years as a tech journalist specializing in camera gear. He's previously worked at Amateur Photographer, for a photo accessory manufacturer and as a freelance photographer and video producer, with clients including Studio 44 and Canon. He also started a media team in Nairobi, Kenya, where he lived for a few years volunteering for a faith-based organisation. Tim is married, father of three children, and loves being active, primarily running since hanging up his football boots.
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