Top 6 Follow Me Drones To Elevate Your Aerial Adventures (2025)

August 17, 2025
Top 6 Follow Me Drones To Elevate Your Aerial Adventures (2025)

Ever dreamed of capturing your mountain bike ride from a breathtaking bird’s-eye view or filming your solo adventure hands-free? With follow-me drones, you can redefine your outdoor experiences. Gone are the days when you had to control your drone manually while trying to capture action shots.

Follow-me drones now handle the complex flight paths, framing, and obstacle avoidance automatically, so you can focus on the moment.

Whether you’re riding trails, shooting content, or exploring new places, these drones allow you to capture professional-quality videos, hands-free.

But not all follow-me drones are created equal. From intelligent tracking systems and stunning 4K/5.7K video to reliable obstacle sensors, finding the perfect drone can be a daunting task.

That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you.

In this article, we’ll explore the six best follow-me drones of 2025, comparing their specs, flight features, stats, and real-world applications. So that you can confidently choose the one that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Disclaimer: Always follow local drone regulations and respect privacy and safety guidelines when flying your drone.

Let’s dive in and understand the concept of follow-me drones and how they work.

What Are Follow-Me Drones?

Concept of Drones That Follow You

Drones That Follow You, also known as follow-me drones, are autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with advanced subject-tracking systems. These drones are designed to lock onto a moving target, usually a person, vehicle, or object, and autonomously follow their path from the air.

Think of them as your flying cameraman, only smarter, faster, and trained to keep you in perfect frame.

Why should you consider purchasing a drone that follows you? The answer lies in the section.

We’ll explore some great follow-me drone options for you. But you might wonder, how did we choose these drones? Here’s what we looked at.

How We Chose the Drones on this List

We didn’t pick these drones based on just their popularity. We reviewed dozens of drones and tested how well they perform in follow-me mode, their camera quality, flight time, obstacle avoidance, and overall reliability in real-world conditions.

Our process includes:

  • Hands-on testing in multiple environments (urban, rural, coastal).
  • Spec verification using official manufacturer documentation.
  • Feature comparison against competing models in the same price range.
  • User feedback review from experienced drone pilots and hobbyists.

Our Experience – Why Trust Our Opinion?

We’ve spent over a decade flying and testing drones. We’ve worked with everything from budget hobby drones to high-end aerial rigs used in professional shoots. Since 2013, we’ve tested almost every major consumer drone and even worked directly with brands like DJI, Autel, and Skydio.

Why Follow-Me Drones Are Game-Changers

The rise of follow-me drones has redefined aerial photography and videography. Here’s why they’ve become indispensable:

  • Hands-Free Operation: Perfect for activities like biking, skiing, or hiking, you can focus on your adventure while the drone takes care of filming.
  • Creative Freedom: These drones offer cinematic tracking shots that were once impossible without a large crew.
  • Built-in Safety and Precision: Most follow-me drones come with built-in multidirectional sensors and advanced obstacle-avoidance systems. These features help prevent collisions and ensure smooth flights even in challenging environments.
  • Intelligent Subject Tracking: Equipped with advanced tracking systems, these drones use AI vision systems and machine learning to recognize and stay locked onto you, even in a crowd.
  • Versatile Shooting Modes: From drone selfies to time-lapses, hyper lapses, and panoramic orbits, most follow-me drones support a wide variety of automated shooting modes.

Let’s now take a closer look at some of the top picks of follow-me drones.

6 Best Drones That Follow You

Best Follow me drones

Among the myriad options available today, only a few offer a combination of intelligent tracking, reliable obstacle avoidance, and high-quality cameras in follow-me mode.

To make it easier for you, we’ve included 6 of the best follow-me drones in 2025.

1. DJI Air 2S

DJI Air 2SCredit: DJI

The DJI Air 2S is a powerful drone packed with impressive features. This drone is equipped with a 1-inch CMOS sensor, allowing it to capture stunning 20-megapixel photos and record 5.4K videos.

With its ActiveTrack 4.0 technology, the DJI Air 2S can intelligently track and follow subjects with great precision. Whether you are hiking, biking, or simply exploring the great outdoors, this drone will seamlessly capture every moment.

Specifications

Feature DJI Air 2S
Camera 1-inch CMOS Sensor, 20MP
Video Resolution 5.4K @ 30fps, 4K @ 60fps
Photo Resolution 20MP
Gimbal 3-axis gimbal stabilization
Obstacle Sensing Forward, Backward, Upward, Downward Vision Systems, Infrared Sensing System
Maximum Flight Time 31 minutes
Maximum Flight Speed 42 mph (68.4 kph)
Transmission Range 12km (7.5 mi)
Transmission Technology O3 (OCUSYNCTM 3.0)
Intelligent Flight Modes MasterShots, QuickShots, FocusTrack, ActiveTrack
Remote Controller DJI RC-N1
Mobile Device Compatibility DJI Fly App
Weight 595g (1.31 lbs)

Best For: High-quality imaging with reliable tracking

2. DJI Mini 3 Pro

Mini 3 ProCredit: DJI

For those seeking a more portable option, the DJI Mini 3 Pro is a perfect choice. This lightweight drone is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet it offers advanced features that make it a powerhouse in the sky.

With its upgraded motors and enhanced flight performance, the DJI Mini 3 Pro can effortlessly keep up with fast-paced activities. Whether you are racing down a mountain trail or participating in extreme sports, this drone will document every exhilarating moment.

Specifications

Feature DJI Mini 3 Pro
Weight Less than 249g
Camera 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
Video Resolution Up to 4K/60fps
HDR Video Yes
Still Photo Resolution Up to 48MP
FocusTrack ActiveTrack, Spotlight, Point of Interest
MasterShots Create automated cinematic sequences
Timelapse Create hyperlapse or timelapse videos
True Vertical Shooting Native portrait mode filming
Tri-Directional Obstacle Sensing Forward, backward, and downward sensors
APAS 4.0 (Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems) Obstacle avoidance and automatic flight assistance
DJI O3 Digital Video Transmission Up to 12km range (DJI RC-N1)
Max Flight Time 34 minutes (Standard Battery)
Remote Controller Options DJI RC-N1 or DJI RC
Max Video Bitrate 18 Mbps
Latency 120 ms

Best For: Travel-friendly drone with serious power

3. DJI Mavic 3 Pro 

DJI Mavic 3 ProCredit: DJI

The DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC is a top-of-the-line drone that offers unparalleled performance and versatility. Equipped with an impressive Hasselblad camera and a 4/3-inch CMOS sensor, this drone captures breathtaking 20-megapixel photos and records cinematic 4K videos. 

With its advanced flight modes, including Spotlight 2.0 and ActiveTrack 5.0, the DJI Mavic 3 Pro, paired with the DJI RC, ensures that you can effortlessly capture stunning footage from every angle.

Specifications

Feature DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC
Weight 998g (drone + DJI RC)
Camera Hasselblad L2D-20c 4/3 CMOS sensor
Video Resolution Up to 5.7K/60fps, 4K/120fps
HDR Video Yes (10-bit D-Log)
Still Photo Resolution Up to 20MP
FocusTrack ActiveTrack, Spotlight, Point of Interest
MasterShots Create automated cinematic sequences
Timelapse Create hyperlapse or timelapse videos
True Vertical Shooting Native portrait mode filming
Tri-Directional Obstacle Sensing Forward, backward, and downward sensors
APAS 4.0 (Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems) Obstacle avoidance and automatic flight assistance
DJI O3 Digital Video Transmission Up to 15km range (DJI RC)
Max Flight Time 46 minutes (Standard Battery)
Remote Controller DJI RC
Max Video Bitrate 200 Mbps
Latency 120 ms

Best For: Professional filmmakers and cinematic tracking

4. DJI Mini 4 Pro

DJI Mini 4 Pro

Credit: DJI

A top choice for beginners and solo content creators. The DJI Mini 4 Pro features DJI’s latest ActiveTrack 360 technology, allowing for smooth and precise subject tracking in all directions.

It also includes omnidirectional obstacle sensing and 4K/60fps HDR video. It weighs under 249g, so you don’t need FAA registration.

Mini 4 Pro is a great pick if you want smart tracking in a lightweight, portable drone.

Specifications

Feature DJI Mini 4 Pro
Weight <249g
Camera 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
Video Resolution Up to 4K/100fps, 4K/60fps HDR
HDR Video Yes (10-bit D-Log M and HLG)
Still Photo Resolution Up to 48MP
FocusTrack ActiveTrack 360°, Spotlight, Point of Interest
MasterShots Create automated cinematic sequences
Timelapse Create hyperlapse or timelapse videos
True Vertical Shooting Native vertical video mode
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing Forward, backward, sides, top, and bottom
APAS   APAS 5.0 for smoother obstacle avoidance
Transmission DJI O4 (up to 20km range)
Max Flight Time 34 minutes (Standard Battery), 45 minutes (Plus Battery)
Remote Controller Options DJI RC 2 or DJI RC-N2
Max Video Bitrate 150 Mbps
Latency 120 ms

Best For: Ultra-light, feature-rich follow-me performance under 250g

5. DJI Air 3

DJI Air 3

Credit: DJI

The DJI Air 3 is one of the most versatile follow-me drones in 2025. It features a dual-camera setup, a wide-angle lens, and a 3x medium telephoto, both powered by 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensors. This gives you more framing flexibility when tracking subjects, whether you want dramatic close-ups or sweeping wide shots.

With ActiveTrack 5.0, it can smoothly follow subjects from the front, side, or rear, and even switch perspectives mid-flight. It also includes omnidirectional obstacle sensing, so it can navigate safely through complex environments.

This drone also offers 46 minutes of flight time, Waypoint tracking support, and the new OcuSync 4.0 transmission system, which boosts range up to 20 km.

In short, the Air 3 delivers high-end tracking and flight features in a compact frame, making it perfect for content creators, adventurers, and sports users alike.

Specifications:

Feature  DJI Air 3 
Weight Approx. 720g (drone + DJI RC 2)
Camera Dual-camera system:

• 1/1.3? CMOS Wide-Angle

• 1/1.3? CMOS 3x Medium Tele

Video Resolution Up to 4K/100fps, 4K/60fps HDR, 1080p/120fps
HDR Video 10-bit D-Log M and HLG
Still Photo Resolution Up to 48MP
FocusTrack ActiveTrack 5.0, Spotlight 2.0, Point of Interest 3.0
MasterShots Create automated cinematic sequences
Timelapse Hyperlapse, Timelapse, and Waypoint Time Capture
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing forward, backward, sides, top, bottom
APAS (Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems) APAS 5.0: enhanced obstacle avoidance and rerouting
Transmission DJI O4 up to 20 km range (DJI RC 2)
Max Flight Time Up to 46 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery)
Remote Controller DJI RC 2 (plus RC-N2)
Max Video Bitrate 150 Mbps
Latency Approx. 120 ms (depending on environment and device)

Best For: Dual-camera tracking with long flight time

6. Autel EVO II Pro V3

Autel EVO II Pro V3

Credit: Autel

If you’re looking for a follow-me drone that can follow you accurately and also capture high-quality footage, the Autel EVO II Pro V3 is a reliable companion.

It packs a 1-inch CMOS sensor capable of shooting 6K video. You also get a variable aperture of f/2.8 to f/11, which is rare in consumer drones. This is a rare feature in drones that gives you creative control even in bright or low-light conditions.

The EVO II Pro uses Dynamic Track 2.1, an advanced AI system that follows moving subjects smoothly. It can follow from the side or front, depending on how you’re moving. With 360-degree coverage, it can detect and avoid obstacles in every direction.

You also get up to 40 minutes of flight time, a 15km range, and a rugged build that stands up to wind better than smaller drones.

If you want more manual control and plan to shoot fast-moving action, the EVO II Pro is the solid choice.

Specifications:

Feature Autel EVO II Pro V3
Weight 1191g (drone only)
Camera 1-inch CMOS Sensor (Sony)
Video Resolution Up to 6K/30fps, 4K/60fps
HDR Video Yes (10-bit Log and HDR supported)
Still Photo Resolution Up to 20MP
Focus Tracking Dynamic Track 2.1, Tripod Track, Parallel Track
Smart Flight Modes Orbit, Waypoint, Follow Me (Dynamic Track 2.1), Precision Flight
Timelapse Supported ((including Hyperlapse)
Vertical Shooting No true vertical, but can crop or rotate
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing Front, rear, top, bottom, and lateral sensors
Autel Autonomy Engine Obstacle avoidance, auto-return, precision hover
Transmission SkyLink 2.0 up to 15km range
Max Flight Time 40 minutes
Remote Controller Autel Smart Controller SE / Standard RC
Max Video Bitrate 120 Mbps

Best For: Professionals who want long-range tracking with advanced camera control

We’ve shared our top picks and how we chose them. But that still leaves one big question: Which one is right for you?

Let’s take a closer look at factors to consider before buying a follow-me drone.

What to Look for While Choosing a Follow Me Drone

What to Look for While Choosing a Follow Me Drone

When it comes to choosing the best drone that follows you, here are the key factors to get a drone that meets your needs:

1. Camera Quality: 4K is the New Minimum

The whole point of having a drone that follows you is to capture stunning aerial footage. Look for a drone that has a high-resolution camera capable of shooting in 4K or even higher. The drone’s camera sensor size and resolution determine the detail and clarity of your photos and videos. Larger sensors (like 1” or 1/1.3”) and higher resolutions generally produce better results, especially in low-light conditions.

Also, ensure the drone offers image stabilization, either Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) or a 3-axis gimbal. This helps to capture smooth and steady footage while the drone is in motion.

2. Flight Time

Since follow-me drones are often used for capturing action-packed moments, you’ll want a drone that can stay in the air for a decent amount of time. Look for a drone that offers a flight time of at least 25 minutes or more. Also, check if extra batteries are included.

This will ensure that you have enough time to capture the shots you want without constantly having to return to base for a battery change.

3. Follow Me Technology: GPS Tracking or Vision-Based (ActiveTrack)

The follow-me drone relies on advanced tracking technology. There are two main types of follow-me technology: GPS tracking and ActiveTrack.

GPS tracking uses satellite positioning to track and follow the GPS coordinates of a target. This technology is more accurate and reliable, making it ideal for areas with an open sky and good satellite reception. Drones that use GPS tracking are great for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing.

On the other hand, ActiveTrack technology uses computer vision algorithms to detect and track a target in real time. Vision-based drones offer frame-aware following, meaning they don’t just chase your signal. They understand how you move in the shot.

This technology is ideal for scenarios where GPS signals might be weak or obstructed, such as indoor activities or in dense urban environments. Drones with ActiveTrack technology are perfect for capturing fast-paced action sports or filming in crowded areas.

4. Obstacle Sensing

Obstacle sensing is an essential safety feature to consider when choosing a drone that follows you. This technology allows the drone to detect and avoid obstacles in its path, preventing collisions and accidents.

Look for a drone that has obstacle sensors on multiple sides, including the front, back, sides, and bottom. This will provide maximum protection against obstacles during autonomous flight.

With these factors in mind, here is a quick comparison table that will allow you to choose the best follow-me drone:

Drone Camera Flight Time Follow me Technology Obstacle Sensing Base Price
DJI Air 2S 1-inch CMOS, 20 MP 31 minutes ActiveTrack 4 Directions USD 825
DJI Mini 3 Pro 1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48 MP 34 minutes ActiveTrack Tri-Directional USD 702
DJI Mavic 3 Pro with DJI RC Hasselblad Camera: 4/3 CMOS, 20 MP

Medium Tele Camera: 1/1.3? CMOS, 48 MP

43 minutes GPS + Galileo + BeiDou Omnidirectional  USD 2,199
DJI Air 3 Dual 1/1.3-inch, 48MP 46?minutes ActiveTrack 5.0 Omnidirectional USD 1,099
Autel EVO II Pro 6K, 48?MP 40 minutes DynamicTrack 2.0 Omnidirectional USD 2,199
DJI Mini 4 Pro 1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48 MP 34 minutes (45 max) ActiveTrack 360° Omnidirectional USD 759

Conclusion

Follow-me drones have transformed how content creators, adventurers, and professionals capture their stories.

They’re now smarter and more capable. Most of these drones now pack AI-powered tracking, advanced obstacle avoidance, and built-in cinematic flight modes as standard features.

This technology continues to push boundaries, unlocking creative shots and practical aerial views that weren’t possible just a few years ago.

With options ranging from beginner-friendly models like the DJI Mini 4 Pro to flagship drones like the DJI Mavic 3 Pro, there’s a perfect follow-me drone for every pilot.

With the right combination of features such as a high-quality camera, long flight time, advanced tracking technology, and obstacle-sensing capabilities, you can capture breathtaking footage from a unique perspective.

So, which one will you choose to take your adventures to the skies? Let us know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are Active Track And Sensors In Follow Me Drones?

Active Track and Sensors are the core of modern follow-me systems. These advanced tracking and sensing technologies enable the drone to follow its subject accurately and safely, even in challenging environments and at high speeds.

2. What is the “Follow Me” Option on Drones?

The “Follow Me” feature on drones allows the aircraft to autonomously track and film a moving subject without any manual control.

This is accomplished through a combination of advanced GPS technology, real-time AI recognition, computer vision, and multi-directional tracking, these drones. These drones offer a hands-free experience, allowing you to focus on your activities while capturing mesmerizing footage from unique perspectives.

3. How Does a Drone Follow Me?

Drones with the follow-me function use various methods to track and follow a person. Most commonly, they utilize the GPS signal from your smartphone or a dedicated tracking device. By connecting to the drone’s app, the aircraft receives real-time information about your location, ensuring accurate tracking.

Additionally, some advanced drones employ object recognition and computer vision algorithms to precisely follow a subject, even in complex environments.

4. How Long Can a Drone Follow You?

The duration a drone can follow you depends on several factors, including its battery life and the specific model’s capabilities. Now, many drones offer 30 to 46 minutes of continuous flight per charge, depending on tracking mode and speed.

Modern drones offer return-to-home features, automatically returning to their take-off point when the battery is running low. This ensures your drone won’t get stranded in the sky while following you.

Also, swapping batteries or using portable chargers is now common for extended outdoor filming sessions.

5. What is it Called When a Drone Follows You?

When a drone actively follows you, it is commonly referred to as “ActiveTrack” or “DynamicTrack”. These terms embody the ability of the drone to independently track your movements and adjust its flight path to keep you in focus.

The follow-me function enables the drone to act as your aerial cameraman, smartly capturing your adventures from stunning angles while you remain completely engrossed in the moment.

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Author

Paul Aitken - Drone U

Paul Aitken

Co-Founder and CEO

Paul Aitken is a Certified Part 107 drone pilot and a Certified Pix4D Trainer. He is a pioneer in drone training and co-founder of Drone U. He created the industry’s first Part 107 Study Guide and co-authored Livin’ the Drone Life.

Paul is passionate about helping students fly drones safely and effectively. With over a decade of experience, he has led complex UAS projects for federal agencies and Fortune 500 clients such as Netflix, NBC, the NTSB, and the New York Power Authority.

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