The Autel X Star series, though no longer in production, remains a popular choice for drone enthusiasts. This guide delves into the Range Of Autel X Star Drones, examining their features, capabilities, and comparing them to competitors like the DJI Phantom series. While newer models like the Evo Lite and Evo Nano are currently available, understanding the legacy of the X Star provides valuable context for Autel’s drone development.
Autel X Star: An Overview
The Autel X Star was designed with photographers in mind, offering an easy-to-fly platform with a high-quality camera. Ready to fly out of the box, it came with a portable carrying case, making it convenient for travel and fieldwork.
Cost and Value
Priced under $1,000 at launch, the Autel X Star provided significant value. It included the drone, controller, a built-in gimbal-stabilized camera, and essential accessories like a battery and charger. This competitive pricing made it a compelling alternative to the DJI Phantom series.
Camera Performance
The X Star Premium boasted a 4K Ultra HD camera capable of capturing stunning aerial footage. Its 108-degree field of view and 3-axis gimbal ensured smooth, stable video and sharp 12-megapixel photos. This camera setup allowed users to create professional-quality content with ease.
Intelligent Flight Modes
Beyond basic flight controls, the Autel X Star offered various intelligent flight modes:
- Beginner Mode: A geo-fence limited speed and range, enhancing safety for new pilots.
- Follow Me: The drone autonomously tracked a moving subject.
- Orbit Me: The drone circled the pilot at a set distance.
- Waypoints: Users could pre-program flight paths for automated missions.
X Star vs. DJI Phantom: Key Differences
Often compared to the DJI Phantom 3 Advanced, the Autel X Star shared a similar design. However, notable distinctions set it apart:
Flight Performance
The X Star offered a more agile and responsive flight experience compared to the Phantom. While this made it slightly more challenging for beginners, experienced pilots appreciated the increased maneuverability. Both drones had a similar top speed of around 16 m/s.
Modular Design
A key advantage of the X Star was its removable gimbal and camera. This allowed for potential upgrades and customization, a feature absent in the Phantom. This modularity extended the drone’s lifespan and provided flexibility for future advancements.
Controller and App
The X Star’s controller closely resembled DJI’s, requiring users to download the Autel Starlink app and connect their smartphone for a first-person view (FPV) feed. Dedicated buttons for functions like return-to-home and takeoff simplified operation. The controller also included a built-in screen for basic telemetry data.
Battery and Flight Time
The X Star utilized a 14.8V LiPo battery, providing up to 25 minutes of flight time on a single charge. A fast charger was included, minimizing downtime between flights.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
While no longer available for purchase, the Autel X Star series made a significant impact on the drone market. Its competitive pricing, impressive camera capabilities, intelligent flight modes, and unique modular design solidified its position as a strong contender against DJI’s offerings. Though newer Autel models have since taken its place, the X Star’s innovative features paved the way for future advancements in drone technology. The X Star served as a testament to Autel’s commitment to developing high-quality, user-friendly drones.
