HOVERAir X1 PROMAX Review: The Ultimate Selfie Drone Under 250G for Action Enthusiasts

Introduction

The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX, launched by ZeroZero Robotics, is a cutting-edge selfie drone tailored for action sports enthusiasts, vloggers, and travelers. With its compact, foldable design, advanced 8K camera, and intelligent follow-me technology, it promises professional-quality footage with minimal effort. Priced at $699, it competes with drones like the DJI Neo, offering superior camera capabilities but at a premium. This comprehensive review explores its design, performance, user experience, and how it stacks up against competitors, based on expert reviews and technical specifications as of May 9, 2025.

Design and Build Quality

The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is engineered for portability and durability. Its foldable design measures 105×149×34 mm when folded, expanding to 173×149×39 mm when unfolded, making it small enough to fit in a jacket pocket or small bag. Weighing only 192.5 grams, it falls below the 250-gram threshold, often exempting it from registration requirements for recreational use in many countries, such as the US (FAA Drone Registration).

The drone features a polycarbonate propeller cage that protects the propellers and ensures user safety, allowing it to be grabbed mid-air without risk. This cage also enhances durability, with reviews noting its ability to withstand minor bumps during action-packed filming (TechRadar Review). The front panel includes a minimal display for mode selection, complemented by a rear obstacle-detecting sensor, adding to its practical design.

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Camera and Video Capabilities

The X1 PROMAX’s camera is a standout feature, equipped with a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor and a 7-layer lens for superior image quality. It supports video resolutions up to 8K at 30/25/24fps, 4K at 120/100/60/50/30/25/24fps, and 1080p at similar frame rates, catering to both cinematic and slow-motion needs. Vertical video modes include 4K at 30fps and 2.7K at 60fps with HDR, ideal for social media content.

Photography options include 12MP and 48MP resolutions, offering flexibility for casual and professional use. The camera supports 10-bit HLG HDR for enhanced dynamic range, delivering vibrant, detailed footage. Stabilization is achieved through a two-axis gimbal paired with SmoothCapture 2.0 electronic image stabilization (EIS), ensuring steady shots during fast-paced activities. However, some reviews note occasional lens flare in bright lighting conditions (Digital Camera World Review).

Flight Performance

The X1 PROMAX excels in flight performance, offering 10 intelligent flight modes: Hover, Follow, Orbit, Dolly Track, Zoom Out, Bird’s Eye, Side Track, and more. These modes enable users to capture complex shots without piloting expertise. In Follow mode, it tracks subjects at speeds up to 26 mph (42 km/h), with bursts up to 37 mph (60 km/h), making it suitable for activities like cycling, skiing, or skateboarding.

With Level 5 wind resistance (up to 24 mph), it maintains stability in gusty conditions, as tested in winds approaching 20 mph. The 1920 mAh battery provides up to 16 minutes of flight time, reliable in moderate temperatures. Vision-based sensors and proximity detectors enhance obstacle avoidance, allowing the drone to navigate complex environments, though it may struggle with erratic movements.

The drone supports a transmission range of 500m via the HOVERAir app and up to 1km with the optional Beacon accessory, though real-world tests suggest ranges closer to 200m without accessories.

User Experience

Ease of use is a hallmark of the X1 PROMAX. It requires no remote or smartphone for basic operations, relying on onboard buttons to select modes and initiate palm take-off and landing. This simplicity makes it accessible to beginners, with setup as easy as unfolding the propeller guards and pressing a button.

For advanced control, the HOVERAir app offers an improved interface with virtual controls and horizontal mode, while accessories like the Beacon ($129) and Joysticks enhance tracking and manual flight. The Beacon extends range and provides video feedback, though early firmware issues with connectivity are being addressed through updates. The PowerCase accessory offers 2.5 additional battery charges, and ND filters (ND8, ND16, ND32, ND64) improve video quality in bright conditions.

Users report excellent tracking in challenging scenarios, such as cycling or skateboarding, with the drone’s compact size (6.79 oz) and enclosed propellers ensuring safety and portability. X posts from users like @Techigar highlight its pocketable design and ease of use for capturing “heroic moments”.

Comparison with Competitors

The X1 PROMAX is frequently compared to the DJI Neo, a more affordable selfie drone priced around $200-$300. The PROMAX outperforms the Neo in camera resolution (8K vs. 4K), follow speed (26 mph vs. slower tracking), and obstacle avoidance, making it better suited for action sports. Its travel-friendly design and higher-quality footage are significant advantages.

However, the DJI Neo offers similar autonomous modes, greater durability, and a lower price, appealing to casual users or those with budget constraints. The Neo’s 135-gram weight makes it even lighter, though its camera and speed are less advanced. The X1 PROMAX’s price aligns it closer to premium drones like the DJI Air 3S, which offers more features but lacks the PROMAX’s portability.

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Pricing and Availability

The base model retails for $699, including one battery, a USB-C cable, and a soft storage bag. Combo kits, such as the All-in-One Combo ($879), add accessories like a second battery, charging hub, Beacon, and ND filters. These bundles enhance functionality but increase costs, pushing the price into the range of higher-end drones (B&H Photo Video). A 12-month warranty covers manufacturing defects, with HOVERCare ($129.90) offering additional replacement and repair benefits.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Compact, foldable design fits in a pocket	Limited range without accessories (~200m real-world)
8K video and 48MP photos with HDR	Small built-in screen
10 intelligent flight modes for easy filming	Occasional lens flare in bright light
Level 5 wind resistance and 16-minute flight time	Premium price
Vision-based obstacle avoidance	Early firmware issues with Beacon (these have since been resolved)

Who The HoverAir X1 PROMAX Is For

The X1 PROMAX is ideal for action sports enthusiasts, vloggers, and travelers seeking a portable, high-performance drone. Its 8K camera and fast tracking make it perfect for capturing dynamic footage during activities like skiing, cycling, or hiking. Content creators needing social media-ready vertical videos will appreciate its HDR capabilities. However, casual users or those on a budget may find the DJI Neo or similar drones more cost-effective.

Conclusion

The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX is a top-tier selfie drone that combines portability, advanced camera technology, and intelligent flight modes to deliver stunning footage with minimal effort. Its 8K video, robust tracking, and compact design make it a standout for action enthusiasts and content creators. While its price and minor issues like limited range and lens flare are drawbacks, the drone’s performance justifies the investment for those prioritizing quality and convenience. For anyone seeking the best drone under 250 grams for action sports, the X1 PROMAX is a compelling choice.

FAQs

Q: Does the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX require registration?
A: In many countries, drones under 250 grams, like the X1 PROMAX (192.5 grams), don’t require registration for recreational use. Always check local regulations, such as FAA guidelines.

Q: How does it perform in windy conditions?
A: It has Level 5 wind resistance, handling winds up to 24 mph, ensuring stable flight in gusty conditions.

Q: What is the maximum flight time?
A: Up to 16 minutes per 1920 mAh battery charge, reliable in moderate temperatures.

Q: Is there a warranty?
A: Yes, a 12-month warranty covers manufacturing defects, with optional HOVERCare for added protection.

Q: Can I fly it without a smartphone?
A: Yes, onboard controls allow basic operation without a smartphone or remote, though the app or Beacon enhances functionality.

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