Skydio 2+ review

Can the drone that promises to fly itself live up to that lofty goal? We try out the Skydio 2+ to find out

Skydio 2+ review
(Image: © Adam Juniper / Digital Camera World)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The Skydio 2+ is unique, a drone that prioritizes following the action and minimizing pilot involvement rather than camera craft and giant image sensors. The 4K video is good (but not great). Where that footage can come from, however, absolutely stands out – the AI is as good as promised, light permitting, and the result is a new perspective for surprisingly little effort.

Pros

  • +

    Stand-out subject tracking

  • +

    Waypoint system

  • +

    Can be operated with discrete controller(s)

  • +

    Super-accurate panorama positioning

  • +

    Auto-record avoids missing key moments

  • +

    4K 60fps captures the action smoothly

Cons

  • -

    Doesn’t fold

  • -

    Main camera could be better

  • -

    Battery life somewhat average

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The drone world (leaving aside the FPV enthusiast community) has concentrated on improved cameras and, more recently, safety features. There is some discussion of subject tracking and AI pilot assist, but never has it been so fundamental to the promise as it is with the Skydio.

Putting autonomy first – a software-led approach – has led Skydio to seem like an entirely different brand to competitors DJI and Autel (both of whom offer some level of subject tracking). In 2021 it joined the “unicorn club” (a $1 billion valuation), and while still somewhere short of DJI, they do have a distinct advantage: In a hostile trade environment, the company is based in California so can appeal to US agencies.

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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook