The HoverAir X1 Pro is a 192 g self-flying camera that follows you hands-free and shoots 4K/60fps video. The X1 ProMax is the same drone with a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, 8K/30fps video and 64 GB of storage. Both fly for up to 16 minutes, per HoverAir.
This HoverAir X1 Pro review is based on HoverAir’s published specs and features, not hands-on testing. Use it to decide which model fits how you ride, run or travel.
HoverAir X1 Pro Review: Pro vs ProMax at a Glance
| Spec (per HoverAir) | X1 Pro | X1 ProMax |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | About 192 g | About 192 g |
| Image sensor | 1/2-inch | 1/1.3-inch |
| Top video | 4K/60fps | 8K/30fps |
| Slow motion | 1080p/120fps | 4K/120fps |
| Photos | 12MP | 12MP / 48MP |
| Color profiles | Standard | HDR, 10-bit H-Log, HLG |
| Max bitrate | 100 Mbps | 160 Mbps |
| Internal storage | 32 GB + microSD | 64 GB + microSD |
| Stabilization | 2-axis gimbal + EIS | 2-axis gimbal + EIS |
| Max flight time | 16 min | 16 min |
| Auto-follow speed | 42 km/h (26 mph) | 42 km/h (26 mph) |
| Wind resistance | Level 5 (10.7 m/s) | Level 5 (10.7 m/s) |
| Range | 500 m phone / 1 km Beacon | 500 m phone / 1 km Beacon |
| Rear obstacle sensing | Rear collision detection, proximity sensors | Vision-based rear collision detection |
| Starting price (HoverAir) | From $499 | From $699 |
Prices change often, so check the current price before buying.
What the HoverAir X1 Pro Does Well
- Hands-free flying: It takes off from your palm and follows you on preset flight paths. No controller is needed.
- Action tracking: HoverAir rates auto-follow at up to 42 km/h (26 mph), fast enough for cycling and skiing.
- OmniTerrain: Both models can fly over water and snow, per HoverAir. They are not waterproof.
- Light and foldable: At about 192 g, it fits in a jacket pocket and stays under the 250 g line.
- Prop guards: The enclosed frame protects the props around people.
Limitations
- Short flights: 16 minutes is the rated maximum. Plan on spare batteries for a day out.
- Limited obstacle sensing: Sensing is mainly at the rear. It won’t avoid branches all around like larger drones.
- Not a manual-flying drone: You can steer it, but it is built for automated shots.
- Short range with a phone: About 100 m in urban areas, per HoverAir. The Beacon extends it.
- Not waterproof: Flying over water is supported, landing in it is not.
Flight Modes and Controls
HoverAir lists more than a dozen built-in modes, including Follow, Dolly Track, Bird’s Eye, Orbit and Zoom Out. Modes are picked with the button and selector on the drone, or in the app.
| Control option | What it adds |
|---|---|
| On-drone button and selector | Pick a mode and launch from your palm |
| HoverAir app | Settings, mode selection, manual control, file transfer |
| Beacon (optional) | Up to 1 km range and a small touchscreen |
| Beacon + JoyStick (optional) | Joystick control for manual flying |
Camera and Video
The Pro covers most riders and runners with 4K/60fps and a two-axis gimbal plus electronic stabilization. Both models record vertical video for social clips.
The ProMax is for creators who color-grade or crop. Its larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, 8K/30fps, 4K/120fps and 10-bit H-Log give more room in editing. The higher bitrate also helps fine detail like snow, water and foliage.
Battery and Charging
Both models use a 1,920 mAh smart battery rated for up to 16 minutes. HoverAir says direct charging takes about 45 minutes. With the optional Charging Hub, two batteries charge in about 60 minutes.
For comparison, see our DJI Neo 2 explainer, another small follow-me drone.
Registration and Rules
At about 192 g, both drones are under the FAA’s 250 g threshold for recreational registration in the US. If you fly for business under Part 107, you must register at any weight.
Rules outside the US differ. Some countries require an operator ID for camera drones under 250 g, so check your local aviation authority before flying.
Which Should You Buy?
- X1 Pro: riders, runners and travelers who want solid 4K and the lower price.
- X1 ProMax: creators who want 8K, 4K/120fps slow motion, 48MP photos and Log profiles.
- Neither: if you want long flights or cinematic manual control. Look at the DJI Air 3S or, for immersive flying, the DJI Avata 2.
Want something even smaller? See our list of the best drones under 100 g.
FAQ
Is the HoverAir X1 Pro worth it?
It is worth it if you want hands-free footage of yourself while riding, running or skiing, and you value a 192 g drone that follows you without a controller. If you want long flights or full manual piloting, a traditional drone is a better fit.
What is the difference between the HoverAir X1 Pro and ProMax?
The ProMax has a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, 8K/30fps video, 4K/120fps slow motion, 48MP photos, 10-bit H-Log and HLG, and 64 GB of storage. The Pro has a 1/2-inch sensor, 4K/60fps, 12MP photos and 32 GB. Flight time, speed, wind resistance and range are the same.
How long does the HoverAir X1 Pro fly?
HoverAir rates both the X1 Pro and ProMax at up to 16 minutes per battery. Real flights are usually shorter because of wind, cold and tracking speed.
Does the HoverAir X1 Pro need to be registered?
At about 192 g, it is under the FAA’s 250 g threshold for recreational flyers in the US. Commercial Part 107 flights need registration at any weight, and rules differ in other countries, so check your local regulator.
Can the HoverAir X1 Pro fly over water and snow?
Yes, HoverAir says both models support OmniTerrain for flying over water and snow. The drone is not waterproof, so avoid rain and splashes.
What is the range of the HoverAir X1 Pro?
HoverAir lists up to 500 m with a phone in open areas (about 100 m in urban areas), and up to 1 km with the optional Beacon controller.
