A drone so I can look first
By Ryan Fields-Spack · Former fire captain · 20+ years as a paramedic ·
A drone lets me see what is happening around me before I walk into it. Storm damage. A road. The property. A lost pet, or a trail. I would rather look from where I am standing than walk into something I cannot see.
I finally bought a 4K video drone. People have been asking for better travel and camping footage, I've kind of always wanted one, and I found an entry-level Bwine F7MINI 4K on Amazon that was well reviewed and wasn't crazy expensive. I bought it. This is the full unboxing, and then I couldn't resist a first flight.
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What was in the box
In the box: a hard carrying case, the user manual, a remote (I thought this one had a built-in screen, but it doesn't — your phone clips onto the controller), batteries, USB-A to USB-C charging cords, an iPhone connector, extra screws, spare props, and the drone itself.
It felt extremely light, and also pretty plastic, which I'm a little concerned about. I'll see how it holds up.
The name on the box is Bwine F7MINI 4K. The listing I bought is titled Bwine F7MINI 4K Video 8K Photo Drones with Camera for Adults 3-Axis Gimbal. It is the standard remote, model F7MINI 4K-3B. It is not the later kit with a 5.5-inch screen on the controller.
The first flight
It has a follow-me mode, which is something I really wanted. I also took it outside for a first flight on the patio. I've never flown a drone before. I did get some video, and when I hit auto return it went up instead of coming back down, so I've got some learning to do — but I didn't crash it.
The unboxing video
I filmed the unboxing and that first flight. The video is still private, so I am not putting it on this page yet. When it is public, I will embed it here.
If you fly
Follow FAA rules for recreational flyers. Register if you are required to. Keep it in your line of sight. Stay clear of emergency scenes and aircraft, and check your local rules. If you fly in the US, you'll need a TRUST certificate for recreational flights, and you have to follow FAA airspace rules. Registration is required at 250 grams and up. I mention in the video that this one is under the weight limit for that designation, but confirm the weight of your exact kit and the current FAA rules before you fly.
Buy the Bwine F7MINI 4K Opens in a new tab.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.