Holy Stone HS790 drone Review

Navigating the crowded drone market for a model that balances advanced features with an accessible price can feel like a fool’s errand. The Holy Stone HS790 arrives as a confident challenger, promising 4K video, intelligent flight modes, and a robust design without the flagship cost. It’s a drone that begs the question: can a mid-range flyer truly deliver a premium experience?

The HS790 makes a strong first impression with its design and build. It adopts the familiar foldable quadcopter form factor, transforming from a compact, travel-friendly package into a capable aerial platform in seconds. Crucially, it tips the scales at just under 250 grams, a strategic move that allows it to bypass the FAA’s registration requirements in the United States, making it far more approachable for new pilots. While the plastic construction doesn’t scream premium like a DJI Mini, it feels sturdy and well-assembled, capable of surviving the occasional rough landing. Holy Stone sweetens the deal by including a high-quality semi-rigid carrying case, a thoughtful addition that protects the drone, controller, and its two included batteries.

In the air, the HS790 performs with surprising confidence. Its brushless motors provide a significant advantage over the cheaper brushed motors found in toy-grade drones, offering better power, efficiency, and longevity. The inclusion of GPS is a game-changer at this price point, enabling rock-solid hovering and a reliable Return-to-Home function that brings the drone back to its takeoff point with the press of a button. In calm to light winds, the drone is responsive and stable. However, its lightweight nature means it can get pushed around in more significant gusts, requiring more active piloting to maintain a steady shot. Each battery provides roughly 25 minutes of flight time, and with two in the box, you’re looking at nearly an hour of airtime before needing to find a power outlet.

The camera system is where the nuanced story of value and compromise unfolds. The HS790 boasts a 4K camera, but it’s important to set expectations. While it technically captures 3840×2160 resolution video, the small sensor size and compression mean the footage lacks the sharpness, dynamic range, and rich color science of more expensive competitors. For social media and hobbyist projects, the quality is more than adequate, but it won’t satisfy professional videographers. The camera is stabilized by a 2-axis mechanical gimbal paired with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS). This hybrid approach does a commendable job of smoothing out jitters and minor vibrations, producing far more usable footage than drones relying on EIS alone. It’s a significant step up from unstabilized drones, though it can’t quite match the buttery-smooth motion of a full 3-axis gimbal.

Beyond the core specs, the HS790 is packed with intelligent flight modes that elevate it from a simple flying camera to a creative tool. Features like Follow Me, Orbit (Point of Interest), and Waypoint flight are all accessible through the companion app and work reliably thanks to the GPS. These automated modes allow even novice pilots to capture complex, cinematic-looking shots with ease. The controller is comfortable to hold, and the app is functional, though its user interface lacks the polish and intuitive design of industry leaders.

Ultimately, the Holy Stone HS790 is an exercise in smart compromises. It doesn’t beat flagship drones in any single category, but it delivers a remarkably complete and capable package for its price. It’s the perfect drone for a serious beginner looking to move beyond basic toys or a hobbyist who wants advanced features like GPS and a stabilized camera without investing in a pro-level system. For those who want to learn the fundamentals of aerial photography and explore creative flight modes, the HS790 hits a compelling sweet spot of performance, features, and value.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon