Home Hi-Tech Drones and UAVs ,,,,, Cyber Layman puts the SJRC F11 drone to the test, which seems to take inspiration from DJI's most famous Mavic Pro. With the latter it shares form factor, in addition to being foldable, while there is no lack of important technical features, such as GPS, automatic return to the base, follow me mode, and others. Here is the video of our test.
How it's done
SJRC F11 is a drone of important dimensions. Not that it is too bulky and not very portable, but it is not a drone that fits in the palm of your hand. It is similar to DJI's Mavic PRO, but thanks to the four foldable arms it can be carried in a small backpack.
The battery is positioned on the back of the drone, it is quick release, but does not need to be removed in order to recharge it. And in fact, there is a microUSB port, which is used to recharge it, accessible even when it is installed on the drone. This is a convenience, because F11 does not need any particular battery charger, as a common microUSB cable is sufficient.
Features
It has four brushless motors, which allow the drone to be fast and always responsive during flight movements. Furthermore, the brushless motors ensure greater longevity and do not require maintenance. In flight the noise is moderate, although it certainly makes itself heard, not being as silent as the latest DJI models.
On the front there is a camera that records video at 1080p, at 25 fps, with a wide viewing angle of 120 degrees. The camera is embedded in the body of the drone, therefore protected by the plastic of the body, not protruding.
It is possible to change its inclination from the remote control, a really pleasant element, which is usually not present in drones of this price range. In terms of construction, the drone is well designed, even if the plastics do not seem to the touch of the best quality.
According to the reading of the technical data sheet, the drone has a control range of 1200 meters, but this is not the case. During our tests we managed to move away about 200/300 meters, no more. Moreover, we were in a somewhat isolated countryside area, certainly far from interference of any kind.
The connection between the remote control and the drone, as regards the transmission of the video stream, takes place via the WiFi connection, which obviously has its limits: just move away a few hundred meters to already have some lag. In short, the F11 certainly does not enjoy the advanced systems of the most famous competitors, but it still manages to return pleasant flight images.
The GPS works well, the drone remains stable in flight, and above all it manages to return to the base with a simple click on the appropriate button. It is also a protection for those who are beginners, and want to return the drone to the base without having to worry about doing anything else. On only one occasion we encountered a somewhat “abrupt” landing of the drone, while usually the descent to the ground, for automatic landing, took place gradually and flawlessly.
Among the advanced flight functions the “Follow me”, thanks to which the drone will automatically follow the framed subject. Although it works, it is not very reliable, especially when the framed subject passes behind trees or even behind other subjects: on several occasions the drone has completely changed target and was no longer able to follow us properly.
Among other modes, even those that allow you to start shooting and recording using hand gestures: even in this case, the system has not always proved to be flawless and precise. These are, then, present options, but not main ones.
Very good, however, the autonomy, which on paper is declared at 25 minutes. The 2500mAh battery failed to keep the drone in flight for the stated time, but it exceeded approximately 20 minutes. In any case, the flight time changes according to weather conditions and driving style.
Remote control and app
The remote is well designed, and also comfortable to hold. Not only does it have a dock for the smartphone on the back, but on the bottom it also offers two extensions that make the handle even easier and more comfortable. From the remote control it is possible to take photos and record videos, as well as set the speed of the drone and the inclination of the camera.
The app is simple and easy to use, with the main screen that leaves room for the video stream transmitted in live streaming from the drone's camera, with the numerous flight options present on the top.
As always, we leave you with a video that shows the exact qualities of the drone's camera. We are far from what is appreciable with a Mavic Pro, but in any case the camera returns appreciable past. These are mostly images that can be shared on social media, or to be watched on a smartphone or tablet. The software stabilization is present, even if not on three axes, and there is a small jello effect. Overall, in any case, these are enjoyable images. Judge for yourself.
Conclusions
SJRC F11 has compact dimensions, brushless motors and excellent flight autonomy, all seasoned with a valid GPS module that will allow you to return home in total safety in case of signal loss or various dangers.
The video quality is not exceptional, but it is enjoyable above all for viewing on a smartphone or tablet, and therefore suitable for sharing on social networks. Easy to drive, and also to transport, it is a good starting point for those who want to approach the world of drones for the first time.
On GearBest it costs 220 euros and you buy directly at this address .
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