If you’re exploring alternatives to DJI drones without breaking the bank, the Holy Stone HS790 is a compelling option worth considering. This drone blends solid hardware features with a user-friendly experience—making it ideal for beginners or casual flyers who want high quality style footage without DJI-level prices.
Holy Stone HS790
The HS790 isn’t a sub-250g drone, so it does require FAA registration and includes a Remote ID module. While it shares the foldable design of many mini drones, it’s slightly larger and more robust, which helps with wind resistance and flight stability. It also comes in a handy carrying case, complete with a remote controller, two batteries, and a multi-battery charging hub.
One of the standout features is the 3-axis gimbal, which is typically found only in more expensive drones. This stabilization system, paired with a 1/3.2-inch sensor, ensures smooth footage, though it’s not quite on par with DJI’s larger sensors. Still, video quality is decent for most recreational users and hobbyists. The drone also offers a 30-minute flight time and an impressive range of 8.9 km (5.5 miles)—though regulations require you to keep the drone within your line of sight.
The HS790 supports several intelligent flight modes, including Circle, Rocket, Up & Away, and Follow Me. While these features work, they do have some limitations. For example, the Follow Me mode uses GPS rather than visual tracking, and it doesn’t always keep subjects centered. However, the gimbal can be adjusted mid-flight, offering some creative control during automated shots.
At a retail price of $390, with additional discounts between 15–20%, the HS790 offers strong value. It’s a capable package that fills a gap left by harder-to-find models like the DJI Mini 4K. While Holy Stone doesn’t manufacture their drones—they source them from established OEMs like SJRC—they’ve curated a package that’s easy to use and relatively full-featured for the price.
Verdict: The Holy Stone HS790 is a solid, feature-rich beginner drone that offers many pros of higher-end models without the premium cost. If you’re just getting into drone photography or looking for a reliable backup to your main rig, this drone is well worth a look.
| Check the price of the HS790 | Check the price of DJI Mini 4K |
Thanks for visiting Half Chrome
Make sure you check out our YouTube channel so you can stay up to date with all things drone. Make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss our new videos and live streams. Whether it is an aerial photography machine from DJI or a lightning-fast FPV racer we have you covered. We also use Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to keep our readers and viewers up to date. Consider joining our Patreon for sneak peeks and quick communication. Join HERE.
If you want to buy a drone we highly encourage you to use the links in the article above. By using them we’ll make a small commission but won’t cost you anything extra. It is how we are able to keep producing content for you. Check out our shop tab at the top for deals from Amazon, DJI, Banggood, and more.
Make sure you check out some of our more popular pages like Best Drones Now, Aerial Photo Tips, Top Accessories, and All Things FPV. Happy Flying.
Disclosure:
This website contains affiliate links, which means we receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. For full details visit the disclosures and disclaimers page.