Introduction to the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX
Searching for the best selfie drone in 2025? The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX, crafted by ZeroZero Robotics, sets a new standard for compact, AI-powered drones. Boasting 8K video, advanced tracking, and a portable design, this drone targets vloggers, adventurers, and content creators. In this SEO-optimized, detailed review, we’ll explore its features, performance, pros, cons, and how it stacks up against DJI competitors. Is this the top drone under $700 for aerial photography? Let’s dive in and find out!
Key Specifications at a Glance
- Camera: 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor, 16mm lens, 8K/30fps video, 48MP photos
- Weight: 192.5g (no FAA registration required)
- Dimensions: Folded: 4.13 x 5.86 x 1.34in (105 x 149 x 34mm); Unfolded: 6.81 x 5.86 x 1.53in (173 x 149 x 39mm)
- Flight Time: Up to 16 minutes
- Max Follow Speed: 26 mph (42 km/h); 37 mph (60 km/h) in manual mode
- Flight Modes: 10 intelligent modes (Hover, Follow, Orbit, Dolly Track, etc.)
- Storage: 64GB internal, expandable to 1TB via microSD
- Battery: 1920mAh, USB-C charging, optional Thermo Battery for cold climates
- Price: $699 (Standard Kit), $879 (Combo Kit)
- Availability: Shipping since November 2024
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Design and Build: Compact, Durable, and Travel-Friendly
The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX shines with its pocket-sized, foldable design, weighing just 192.5g—light enough to skip FAA registration. Its Hyper-Elastic Material (HEM) frame boosts durability, while the caged propellers ensure safety for close-proximity flights, indoors or out. Folded, it’s smaller than a VHS cassette, slipping easily into a jacket pocket or backpack for hiking, biking, or skiing. The black ABS-like plastic fuselage feels sturdy, with a USB-C port and microSD slot for convenience. A small OLED screen and three buttons (power, left/right joysticks) simplify operation, making it a top pick for portability in 2025.
Camera and Image Quality: 8K Excellence Unleashed
Video Capabilities
The star of the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is its 8K/30fps video, captured via a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor and 16mm lens. With 14 stops of dynamic range and a 107-degree field of view, footage is sharp, vibrant, and well-balanced, even in bright or mixed lighting. Options include:
- 8K at 30fps: Ideal for professional-grade clips, though editing can be heavy for casual users
- 4K at 120fps: Perfect for smooth slow-motion
- 10-bit HLG: Enhances color depth and detail for HDR video The two-axis gimbal and SmoothCapture 2.0 electronic image stabilization (EIS) eliminate shake, delivering cinematic results during fast-paced action like cycling or running.
Photo Quality
Snapping 48MP stills, the X1 PROMAX excels for high-resolution shots, great for social media or small prints. Colors pop slightly oversaturated but pleasing, and low-ISO shots perform best in bright conditions. Some lens flare appears in tricky lighting, a minor drawback for an otherwise stellar camera.
Performance: AI Tracking and Flight Modes
Intelligent Flight Modes
The X1 PROMAX’s 10 AI-powered flight modes make it a standout selfie drone:
- Hover: Frames you statically for selfies or group shots
- Follow: Tracks at 26 mph, perfect for biking or running
- Orbit: Circles you for 360° cinematic views
- Dolly Track: Faces you from the front, ideal for vlogging
- Zoom Out: Reveals more scenery for dramatic effect
- Bird’s Eye: Captures overhead perspectives
- Indoor Follow: Navigates tight spaces safely
- Dolly Zoom: Creates a Hitchcockian effect
- Ski Mode: Tracks smoothly on slopes, cold-resistant
- Cycling Mode: Narrow for tight trails, Open for roads Powered by a 15x stronger NPU than the original X1, the drone locks onto subjects reliably, even at high speeds. Rear vision-based collision detection adds safety, though it occasionally veers in Dolly Track mode or clips trees at low speeds.
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Flight Performance
With a max follow speed of 26 mph (42 km/h) and 37 mph in manual mode, the X1 PROMAX keeps up with fast action. It handles Level 5 winds (24 mph) and altitudes up to 18,000 feet, excelling in diverse terrains—snow, water, or trails. The 16-minute flight time is shorter than DJI’s 30+ minutes, but the Combo Kit’s extra batteries and charging hub help. The OmniTerrain system ensures smooth tracking in low light or rough conditions, a boon for night runs or ski trips.
Accessories and Control Options
The Standard Kit ($699) includes the drone, one battery, a USB-C cable, and a storage bag. The Combo Kit ($879) adds a second battery, 65W adapter, and charging hub—ideal for extended use. The Beacon and Joystick bundle ($228) extends range to 1km, offering manual control via the Hover X1 app or physical joysticks. Some users report Beacon sync issues, though firmware updates are addressing this. The PowerCase charges on the go, even at -4°F, and the Thermo Battery tackles cold climates, making this a versatile ecosystem for sports and travel.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stunning 8K video and 48MP photos for pro-quality content
- Compact, foldable design—perfect for travel
- 10 AI flight modes for hands-free, dynamic shots
- Safe, caged propellers for indoor and close use
- 64GB storage, expandable to 1TB via microSD
- Strong wind resistance and OmniTerrain versatility
Cons
- 16-minute flight time lags behind DJI models
- Dolly Track mode can veer in tight spaces
- Occasional Beacon controller sync issues
- $699 price higher than 4K alternatives like X1 PRO
- Minor lens flare in bright light
HOVERAir X1 PROMAX vs. DJI: How It Compares
How does the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX stack up in 2025? Against the DJI Neo ($199), it offers 8K vs. 4K and better tracking with rear collision sensors. The DJI Flip ($439) and Mini 3 ($409) boast longer flight times (30+ minutes) and GPS, but lack the X1 PROMAX’s crash-resistant cage and OmniTerrain tech. Compared to the DJI Mini 4 Pro, the 8K resolution shines, though DJI’s 4K and range (10 miles) edge out. For hands-free, selfie-focused flights, the X1 PROMAX is a top contender, especially for rugged adventures.
Who Should Buy the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX?
This drone is perfect for:
- Vloggers: Hands-free Dolly Track and Follow modes capture dynamic content
- Adventurers: Ski Mode and Cycling Mode suit sports like skiing, biking, and running
- Content Creators: 8K video and 10-bit HLG cater to pros on a budget
- Beginners: Simple, button-based operation needs no expertise If you need longer flights or GPS for distant shots, consider DJI’s Mini series. For compact, AI-driven selfie power under $700, the X1 PROMAX excels.
Pricing and Availability
The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX launched via Indiegogo in August 2024 and ships from November 2024. The Standard Kit costs $699, while the Combo Kit is $879, available here. The Cycling Combo ($1,292) includes ND filters and a handlebar mount for specialized use.
Final Verdict: Is the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX Worth It?
The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX redefines selfie drones in 2025 with 8K video, smart AI tracking, and a rugged, portable design. Its 16-minute flight time and minor tracking quirks don’t detract from its value for vloggers, athletes, and travelers. At $699, it’s pricier than the X1 PRO ($499) or DJI Neo, but the 8K camera, 64GB storage, and OmniTerrain versatility justify the cost. For the best compact drone under $700, the X1 PROMAX soars high. Ready to capture your adventures? Order yours today!
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