HoverAir X1 Selfie Drone Slashes Price to $269 – Best Deal Yet for Drone Enthusiasts

The HoverAir X1 selfie drone from Zero Zero Robotics has just hit its lowest price ever at $269, a steep 22% discount from its original $349 price tag, making it an attractive option for drone enthusiasts looking to capture hands-free footage this summer. Available in black and white on Amazon, this pocket-sized drone offers a budget-friendly entry into aerial photography without sacrificing ease of use.

Simplified Technology for Hands-Free Flying

The HoverAir X1 is designed for simplicity, boasting a 2.7K camera at 30 frames per second and six preset flight modes that make capturing footage effortless. Weighing in at just under 20 seconds to unfold, power on, and choose a flight path, this drone caters to users who value quick setup over advanced features.

Preset modes include hover, follow, orbit, zoom out, bird’s eye, and a customizable option, allowing users to adjust distance and altitude via a companion app. However, the X1 lacks GPS and obstacle avoidance sensors, which limits its ability to navigate complex environments or handle windy conditions—something to consider for users in gusty regions.

Trade-Offs for an Affordable Price Point

Zero Zero Robotics made strategic cuts to keep the HoverAir X1’s price competitive, omitting features found in higher-end drones like those from DJI. Without GPS, the drone relies on a VIO (Visual Inertial Odometry) system for positioning, which works well enough for stable hovering but struggles with faster activities like road biking.

The absence of obstacle avoidance also means users need to be cautious in cluttered spaces. Still, for capturing casual group selfies or vacation footage, the X1 delivers solid value, especially at this discounted rate of $269, down from $349—a savings of $80.

Implications for Recreational Drone Pilots

This price drop signals a growing trend in the drone industry: making aerial photography more accessible to recreational users. The HoverAir X1’s affordability and simplicity cater to beginners who might find premium drones intimidating or overpriced.

However, its limitations highlight a trade-off—while it excels at basic tasks, it’s not suited for more demanding applications like high-speed tracking or professional-grade filming.

For hobbyists in the U.S., where drone regulations often require line-of-sight operation and registration for devices over 0.55 pounds (the X1 is just under this threshold at approximately 0.28 pounds), this drone offers a compliant, low-hassle option for casual use.

Why This Deal Matters Now

With summer in full swing as of June 2025, the timing of this discount couldn’t be better for those planning outdoor adventures. The HoverAir X1’s portability—just a few inches wide when folded—and hands-free operation make it a convenient travel companion for capturing memories without the need for a dedicated pilot.

At $269, it’s a steal for budget-conscious drone enthusiasts who prioritize ease of use over advanced features. However, users should be mindful of its limitations in windy conditions and the lack of GPS, which might affect performance in open, breezy areas.

This deal on the HoverAir X1 underscores how manufacturers are adapting to a competitive market, offering accessible tech for casual users while leaving room for premium models to dominate the professional space. For recreational pilots looking to dip their toes into drone photography, this discounted price point makes the X1 a compelling choice.