This bi-copter drone looks exciting but can it rival DJI?

There’s a new sub-250-gram drone in town, and it could shake up the game for the DJI Mini drone series. Zero Zero Robotics has unveiled the V-Copter Falcon Mini, a sleek, lightweight drone with a twist. Unlike the familiar quad-copter designs from DJI’s consumer drones, the Falcon Mini takes a different approach with just two rotors mounted in a unique V-shape. The result? Faster acceleration, enhanced agility, and a design that’s sure to turn heads.

The Falcon Mini stands out from the crowd because of its unconventional approach. While most consumer drones rely on four rotors for lift and stability, this bi-copter design features only two. Mounted above the drone’s body, these rotors tilt dynamically to control movement, allowing for rapid acceleration and nimble turns. Zero Zero Robotics claims this design provides “lightning-fast acceleration” and “unmatched agility” — qualities that could make it a compelling alternative to DJI’s popular Mini 4 Pro.

Another key selling point? Weight. Tipping the scales at under 250 grams, the Falcon Mini sidesteps many of the strict drone regulations that heavier models face. This makes it an attractive option for beginners and hobbyists looking for a hassle-free flying experience.

But while the Falcon Mini might be light on weight, it’s heavy on features. The drone comes equipped with a three-axis stabilized 4K camera, promising smooth video footage. In terms of stability tech, the drone’s twin rotors can adjust their tilt with 0.01-degree precision, helping maintain steady flight — even in windy conditions. In a demonstration, Zero Zero Robotics even balanced a coin on the drone’s fuselage mid-flight to showcase its stability. That’s a level of steadiness you don’t often see in a drone this size.

Durability is another highlight. The Falcon Mini is powered by high-strength alloy steel servo motors, designed to withstand up to one million engagements. This should ensure a long lifespan, even with frequent use. And if flight time is a concern, the Falcon Mini delivers an impressive 34 minutes per charge.

For those who love aerial stunts, Zero Zero Robotics is introducing an optional Reverse Flight Kit. This unlocks a range of advanced flight tricks, including upside-down flying and reverse spins. While these moves might not be the most practical for filmmaking, they add an extra layer of fun for drone enthusiasts looking to push the limits of what’s possible.

The pricing and availability of the Falcon Mini remain under wraps for now, but interested buyers can sign up for early-bird notifications on the V-Copter website.

It’s worth pointing out that Zero Zero Robotics isn’t new to the bi-copter concept. Back in 2020, the company introduced the original V-Copter Falcon, a larger version of this new model. While it showcased similar tilt-rotor technology, its hefty 700+ gram weight meant it faced more flight restrictions. By slimming down to under 250 grams, the Falcon Mini offers the same innovative design in a far more accessible package.

Zero Zero Robotics, co-founded in 2014 by Stanford Ph.Ds MQ Wang and Tony Zhang, has lately been making waves in the drone community with its HoverAir range.

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