Editor’s note: This Autel X-Star review was originally written in 2016 when the drone was released. It is now out of stock at most retailers, and it is no longer in production.
If you’re seeking a camera drone from Autel, check out the Evo Lite or Evo Nano drones, which are currently in production and some of the best camera drones out there.
The Autel X-Star Premium drone was a game-changer in the drone industry upon its release. This comprehensive review delves into its features, performance, and how it stacked up against the competition, particularly the DJI Phantom series.
Autel X-Star Premium: Out of the Box Ready
The Autel X-Star Premium was designed for ease of use, appealing to both beginners and experienced photographers. It arrived ready to fly, requiring minimal setup beyond charging the battery and attaching the propellers. The included portable carrying case added to its convenience.
Affordable Professional-Grade Drone
Priced under $1,000 at the time of its release, the Autel X-Star Premium offered exceptional value. It included a drone, controller, and a built-in camera on a gimbal, making it a competitive option in the professional drone market.
Impressive Camera Capabilities
The X-Star Premium boasted a 4K Ultra HD camera with a 108-degree field of view, capable of capturing stunning aerial footage. It recorded 4K video at 30fps and captured 12-megapixel still photos. The integrated 3-axis gimbal ensured smooth and stable footage, even in challenging conditions.
Intelligent Flight Modes
Autel equipped the X-Star Premium with various intelligent flight modes to enhance the user experience. A beginner mode with a geo-fence limited the drone’s range and speed for novice pilots. Other modes included Follow Me, Orbit Me, and Waypoint navigation, allowing for creative and automated flight paths.
Autel X-Star Premium vs. DJI Phantom: A Comparative Analysis
The Autel X-Star Premium drew inevitable comparisons to the DJI Phantom series, the industry leader at the time. While aesthetically similar, there were key distinctions in performance and design.
Flight Performance Comparison
The X-Star Premium felt more agile and responsive than the Phantom, offering a more dynamic flying experience. While this made it slightly less stable for beginners, experienced pilots appreciated the maneuverability. Both drones had a comparable top speed of approximately 16 m/s.
Removable Gimbal: A Key Advantage
A standout feature of the X-Star Premium was its removable gimbal and camera. This modular design allowed for potential upgrades and customizations, a significant advantage over the fixed camera system of the Phantom. Users could potentially upgrade their camera in the future or even utilize the drone for other applications by removing the gimbal entirely.
Intuitive Controller and App Integration
The X-Star Premium’s controller mirrored the functionality of DJI’s, requiring users to download the Autel Starlink app and connect their smartphone for a first-person view (FPV) experience. The controller featured dedicated buttons for functions like return-to-home and takeoff, simplifying operation.
Autel X-Star Premium: A Consumer-Focused Drone
The Autel X-Star Premium distinguished itself with its consumer-friendly features. The removable gimbal, portable case, and intuitive controls made it accessible to a wider range of users. It offered a compelling alternative to the DJI Phantom, particularly for those seeking future upgradeability and customization options. While no longer in production, the X-Star Premium remains a testament to Autel’s commitment to innovation and user experience. Its legacy continues in Autel’s current lineup of high-performance drones.
