The Holy Stone HS720R is the latest addition to Holy Stone's flagship HS720 series, and it brings an array of impressive features that make it stand out in the competitive world of consumer drones. Whether you're an experienced drone operator or a beginner stepping into the hobby, the HS720R offers a range of capabilities tailored for both fun and professional applications. In this detailed Holy Stone HS720R review, we will break down the specifications, performance, and key features of the Holy Stone HS720R and analyze customer feedback from Amazon to give you a clearer understanding of this drone's real-world performance.
Also Read my detailed review on Holy Stone HS720E.
Key Specifications of the Holy Stone HS720R
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Holy Stone |
| Model Name | HS720R |
| Special Features | FAA-Compliant, 4K EIS Camera, 3-Axis Gimbal, Built-In Remote ID, 10,000 Feet FPV Transmission, GPS Auto Return |
| Video Capture Resolution | 4K |
| Weight | 13.7 Ounces (approximately 388 grams) |
| Battery Life | 26 minutes |
| Transmission Range | 10,000 feet |
| Skill Level | Advanced |
| Camera | 1/3" CMOS Sony Sensor, 4K@30fps, 140° wide-angle |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi Repeater |
| Included Components | Battery, carrying case, camera |
Design and Build Quality
The HS720R drone comes in a sleek, black design, boasting a solid and durable build. Weighing only 13.7 ounces (about 388 grams), it is lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand wind gusts and minor bumps during flight. The drone’s arms are foldable, making it highly portable and easy to transport in its included carrying case.
One of the standout features of this drone is its FAA-compliant built-in Remote ID module. This compliance means you won't have to worry about any regulatory hurdles when flying your drone in the United States, as it adheres to the latest FAA guidelines for drones weighing over 250 grams.
Camera Performance: 4K EIS with 3-Axis Gimbal
The HS720R's camera system is designed to capture stunning visuals. It features a 4K UHD camera equipped with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and a 3-axis gimbal, which allows for smoother and more professional-looking videos and photos. The 1/3" CMOS Sony Sensor ensures clarity and richness in colors, with the ability to shoot 3840x2160P photos and 4K videos at 30fps.
The gimbal stabilization eliminates most of the shakiness that can occur during flight, ensuring that even in windy conditions, your footage remains smooth. The 140° wide-angle lens provides a broad field of view, which is ideal for aerial photography and videography, making the HS720R an excellent choice for those interested in creating high-quality content.
Also read my detailed article on Holy Stone HS720G.
Long-Range Transmission and Battery Life
A significant upgrade over its predecessors is the 10,000-feet transmission range. This allows you to fly the drone farther and still maintain a strong signal for FPV (First-Person View) transmission. The Wi-Fi repeater technology helps to ensure stable transmission even at this extended range, making it perfect for capturing distant landscapes or large event venues.
The 2950mAh modular battery offers a 26-minute flight time per charge, which is comparable to many premium drones on the market. With a spare battery (sold separately), you can double your flight time, allowing you to capture extended aerial shots without interruptions.
GPS-Assisted Flight Modes
One of the most user-friendly aspects of the Holy Stone HS720R is its GPS-assisted flight system. This feature makes it incredibly easy to fly, even for beginners. The auto-return function ensures that the drone will return to its starting point if the battery runs low or if it loses connection, reducing the risk of losing your drone.
The Holy Stone Ophelia FLY App unlocks additional flight modes that make aerial filming more dynamic:
- Follow Me Mode: The drone locks onto and follows you, keeping you in the frame as you move.
- Waypoint Flight: Plan a route on the app, and the drone will fly along the designated path autonomously.
- Point of Interest: The drone circles a particular subject, ensuring you capture 360° views.
These intelligent flight modes simplify the process of creating complex shots, making the HS720R ideal for anyone interested in aerial cinematography.
Advanced Control System: User-Friendly Yet Powerful
Thanks to the Advanced Intelligent Control System, the HS720R is easy to learn and control. The beginner mode provides additional safety measures, while the optical flow positioning and altitude hold offer extra stability, ensuring smooth flights even when you are just getting started.
More advanced users will appreciate the precision of the control system, which enables responsive and accurate maneuvering. Whether you're flying casually or aiming for more technical flight paths, the HS720R is equipped to handle it.
Detailed review of Holy Stone HS720
Holy Stone HS720R review from Buyers
A critical aspect of any product review is how the item performs in real-world conditions, and Amazon reviews provide valuable insights into this. The Holy Stone HS720R has received a mix of glowing feedback and a few critical notes, which we'll summarize here:
Positive Feedback:
- Camera Quality: Most users rave about the camera quality, praising the 4K resolution and the stability provided by the 3-axis gimbal. One customer mentioned, "The footage is clear and smooth. I love how the drone handles windy conditions and still manages to shoot sharp video."
- Long Transmission Range: Another frequently cited advantage is the long-range transmission. A user commented, "I was able to fly this drone much farther than expected. The signal remained strong even at distances over 9,000 feet."
- Ease of Use: Beginners appreciate the ease of flying this drone, thanks to the GPS assistance and the Ophelia FLY App. One reviewer said, "I am new to drones, and this model made it easy for me to pick up the controls and get flying in no time."
- Battery Life: Several reviewers highlight the 26-minute battery life, stating that it's more than sufficient for capturing a full aerial session. "I get enough time to plan and capture my shots without rushing," one user wrote.
Critical Feedback:
- App Glitches: A small number of users have reported minor issues with the Ophelia FLY App, including occasional connection drops. However, Holy Stone's development team actively works to improve the app based on user feedback. One user commented, "The app glitched once during a flight, but the drone still landed safely."
- Size and Portability: While the drone is foldable, some users felt that it was slightly heavier than expected for its size. "The drone is portable, but it's not as light as some competitors," one buyer noted. However, this weight adds to its overall stability in the air.
check price and reviews on amazon.
Holy Stone’s Commitment to Improvement
One notable feature of the HS720R is Holy Stone's commitment to continually improving the Ophelia FLY App and the drone's overall functionality. Holy Stone listens to customer feedback and provides regular updates to ensure that any issues are resolved quickly. This proactive support gives buyers confidence that they are investing in a product that will continue to improve over time.
Final Verdict: Is the Holy Stone HS720R Worth It?
Our Holy Stone HS720R review determines that it delivers an impressive set of features for a drone in its price range. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced drone operator, it offers:
- Top-tier camera quality with 4K resolution, EIS, and a 3-axis gimbal for professional-level shots.
- Long-range transmission of up to 10,000 feet, giving you plenty of freedom to explore and capture distant locations.
- Beginner-friendly controls paired with advanced GPS modes that enhance flight precision.
- FAA compliance, ensuring that you're following U.S. regulations without additional hassle.
While it may have minor app issues and could be a bit heavier than some competitors, the HS720R stands out for its stability, ease of use, and professional-grade camera features. Coupled with Holy Stone's responsive customer support and continuous product improvements, the HS720R is an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture stunning aerial footage without breaking the bank.
If you're searching for a reliable drone that delivers on both performance and value, the Holy Stone HS720R is certainly worth considering.