Swann Xtreem Gravity Pursuit 1080p Video RC Drone

There are several categories by which you can judge a quadcopter. I'll tackle a few with regards to the Xtreem:StabilityThis unit doesn't seem to have any sort of built in stability control, so even indoors in a large open area it will drift. Even after adjusting the trim controls so it isn't drifting continuously in one direction you have to keep an eye on it because the air flow in the room will make it move.Outdoors is an entirely different problem. Since it lacks GPS control it is going to move in the direction of any wind current, and it absolutely lacks the power to overcome all but the lightest of breezes. So if you send it into the air and even a 10MPH gust comes along, you'll be chasing the unit until you manage to get it on the ground.Flight ControlInputs sent to the quadcopter seem to have a fraction of a second delay before kicking in. Although the joysticks are clearly meant to be variable, they do not offer much of a linear feel. Instead, they seem to be a bit mushy up to the point where they are overpowering. This could be an issue of the motors simply being underpowered, but when combined with the stability issue it means controlling the unit is challenging.On the other hand, if you learn to fly with this quadcopter you'll be able to step it up to a better one and will truly be an expert!RemoteThe basic remote offers all the traditional control directions, but nothing in the way of labeling of buttons and switches to help the operator remember what they do. It is an extremely generic unit, seemingly purposed from some other off the shelf unit as demonstrated by the fact it only uses 4 AA batteries, but clear was made to accomodate 6.The range is fine for a toy. It is not a professional grade controller.CameraThe photos generated by the camera, even in full sunlight, are terrible. You trigger each photo by flipping a switch on the controller. Likewise, an opposite flip of the switch results in video recording, which surprisingly is much better! The 1080p video captured by the unit is clear and would be entirely usable except for the fact that the unit is not stable in flight, resulting in video that makes people nauseous to watch.StabilizationThere is no video stabilization, gimbal, or any other means of making sure the unit records smoothly.All in all, I would not recommend this drone. There are many other units in the $50-100 range that would offer the same flight characteristics for a fraction of the price. And given that this unit is not stable for outdoor flight despite it's claims, you'd be better off moving either up or down the price equation to satisfy your needs.

This is basically an X8G clone with the same generic 1080p action camera and priced significantly higher. Although there are no GPS or drift controls, it flies pretty well in low wind outdoor conditions. You can always switch to "High Speed" to regain control if the wind takes over. Given the price range, not much more should be expected from beginner quadcopter.Being larger and faster can make it a bit dangerous when in confined areas, however, the video quality when flying outdoors with minimal wind is excellent compared to lower resolution devices in the same price range.My big struggle is with the Technical Support for this item, although Swann is a larger company, it does not appear their techs are familiar with this product. When I called for assistance I managed to blow 5 hours over two days for a battery issue. Although the lights and decals are reversed from what the images on the website and box indicate, I still like this product. Unfortunately, I had to dock two stars for horrendous customer service.

First: no spare parts available from the manufacturer, nice people but they will send you to a electronic store, they don't know where. Propellers guards - forget it, do not install them unless you want to damage propellers. Very hard to control. It needs to be in constant motion otherwise it shoot up or side ways. Practically hovering not existent. Waste of money. You fly it, you will brake it. By one where you can replenish parts.Do not fly in public places or around people. Very unpredictable.

The initial calibration should allow the quad to fly relatively straight, but they don't. The quad will always fly straight back and the adjustments do not correct it. One of the protective guards broke within the first 15 minutes of flying it. Everything is very flimsy plastic. I cannot discourage purchasing this strongly enough.