Affordable, palm sized drone is perfect for beginners

The Micro Drone 3.0, made by ExtremeFliers, is an affordable, customizable, personal quad-copter with auto-leveling capabilities and an HD video camera.

Consumer drones are becoming more and more popular but most devices on the market are still too expensive for those who are just looking to experiment — retailing at around USD 300-500. We have already seen Kitsplit make drones and other cutting edge equipment more accessible through a community marketplace, and now the Micro Drone 3.0 is an affordable mini drone that is perfect for beginners.

The Micro Drone 3.0, made by ExtremeFliers, is a customizable, personal quad-copter with auto-leveling capabilities, which uses motion sensors to enable the user to fly it in perfect straight lines. The device, which weighs only 71g and fits in the palm of a hand, has HD video capabilities and can even live-stream footage straight to Meerkat. It can be piloted from up to 50 feet via a smartphone app or 300 feet via remote control. It is also modular and can support a range of 3D printed add-ons, enabling users to upgrade their basic drone as their skills develop.

The Micro Drone 3.0 is currently crowdfunding on Indiegogo where it has already raised over USD 1 million. Backers can pre-order the full package — which includes an HD camera module and virtual reality headset — for USD 150. Could other tech be adapted into more affordable starter models?