The Autel Robotics X-Star Premium drone is a compelling option for aerial photography and videography enthusiasts. This review delves into its performance across various aspects, including video quality, ease of use, flight performance, video downlink, customer service, and overall value, providing a comprehensive overview of this powerful quadcopter.
Video Quality and Camera Performance
The X-Star Premium boasts a high-quality 4K camera capable of capturing crisp and detailed images. While generally impressive, minor color saturation issues were observed during testing, resulting in a slightly cool, blue tint in some shots. The 3-axis gimbal effectively stabilizes footage during straight flight paths, but noticeable shake can occur during sharp turns or aggressive maneuvers. Similar to the DJI Phantom series, propeller intrusion can be an issue in fast or aggressive flight, potentially affecting video quality. While not a deal-breaker for most shots, users should be aware of this limitation.
The Autel X-Star Premium features a 4K camera and a 3-axis gimbal.
User-Friendly Experience and Intuitive Controls
The X-Star Premium offers a generally positive user experience. Setup is straightforward, although locating the Autel Starlink app might require some effort. Once downloaded, pairing the drone, controller, and smartphone is seamless. The controller is ergonomically designed with a comfortable grip and a secure mount for smartphones or tablets. While the joysticks provide responsive control, some users might find DJI’s controllers slightly more refined. A prominent pause button allows for immediate hovering, enhancing safety for novice pilots. A built-in LCD screen on the controller displays essential flight information, freeing up the smartphone screen for the video downlink.
Flight Performance and Stability Analysis
The X-Star Premium’s flight performance, while generally acceptable, falls short of some competitors. Takeoffs and landings can feel unstable, with occasional drifting and bobbing. Instances of the drone tipping onto its side during landing were observed, increasing the risk of propeller damage. Maintaining a steady hover at low altitudes proved challenging, with the drone exhibiting random altitude fluctuations. This issue diminishes at higher altitudes. Autonomous flight modes, such as orbit point of interest and cable cam, function adequately, producing usable footage, albeit not as smoothly as top-tier models. The automatic return-to-home feature performed reliably, though landings remained somewhat unsteady. The maximum flight time of 25 minutes is commendable.
Video Downlink Range and Reliability
The X-Star Premium’s video downlink provides reasonable video quality, though with a slightly lower resolution than some competitors. During a 3000-foot flight test, the live video stream remained mostly smooth, experiencing only brief moments of pixelation. While not as immersive as higher-end models, the downlink quality suffices for framing shots and monitoring flight.
Exceptional Customer Service and Support
Autel’s customer service proved exceptional during testing. A prompt and efficient response to a faulty battery issue demonstrated a commitment to customer satisfaction. Knowledgeable representatives and quick resolution times contribute to a positive ownership experience.
The Autel X-Star Premium includes a convenient carrying case.
Value Proposition and Price Considerations
The Autel Robotics X-Star Premium drone offers a compelling combination of features and performance at its price point. While it may not outperform the DJI Phantom 4 in all aspects, it presents a viable alternative for those seeking a high-quality drone with a user-friendly experience and excellent customer support.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Aerial Enthusiasts
The Autel Robotics X-Star Premium is a capable drone suitable for a wide range of aerial photography and videography applications. While some minor performance drawbacks exist, its overall feature set, ease of use, and exceptional customer service make it a worthy contender in the drone market. Potential buyers should weigh its strengths and weaknesses against competing models to determine the best fit for their specific needs and budget.
