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The Hubsan H122D X4 Storm boasts an impressive lightweight yet durable design and two-speed modes. Not only would these features be sought when looking for the best drones for beginners, but also the best beginner racing drones as well. Now if they could only do something about the battery and maybe they could be contenders for top-rated drones.
The Hubsan H122D, unlike most other entry-level drones that focus on getting the user prepared to fly, focuses the user on getting ready to race. With a 22 miles per hour top speed and a body made from carbon fiber, the H122D excels at easing the user into the art of drone racing.
The H122D boasts an impressive top speed of 22 miles per hour. For a beginner drone, this is quite something. It’s even faster than most other beginner drones like the Parrot Mambo Fly. This max speed on the H122D is because it is an entry-level FPV racing drone. So if you’re looking to get into drone racing, the H122D is an excellent way to go.
Unfortunately, flight time on the H122D isn’t all that great. At seven minutes, it’ll be time to recharge. This is usually normal for a basic entry-level drone, but on the low end for racing drones. What’s even more unacceptable is the 150 minutes of charge time. The ratios just aren’t even enough. If you want something that will last longer, check out the Holy Stone HS100. Take a look at our Hubsan H301S Spy Hawk review for a drone with a return home function.
While the H122D is made out of plastic, like the JJRC H37 pocket drone, it is the highly durable carbon fiber kind. Its status as a racing drone is why it’s made of such sturdy materials. This also means the drone must be aerodynamic, which is why it’s so small and weighs only four pounds. They probably could have gotten this weight down just a little bit more, but then it would be more at the mercy of the wind. Be sure to also check out the top Holy Stone drone by reading our Holy Stone HS720 review.
The drone has a built-in VGA camera and the video transmission is in real-time. It also transmits this data straight to your phone. Like the ImmersionRC Vortex 180‘s camera, the camera on the H122D is decent at 720P and can provide a clear picture when racing, but it will probably seem a little lackluster for photography purposes. If photography is what you want, check out the DJI Mavic Air 2 for a fast, photo-friendly drone.
Note that this version does not come with FPV goggles and that they must be purchased separately. The controller looks like an Xbox controller, meaning it’s easy to use and especially suited for those with experience in gaming. It also comes with two basic speed modes so you can get accustomed to drone flying and racing before going all out with max speed. For another drone with a gamepad-like controller, you’ll want to check out our EACHINE E010 review.
It’s hard to pinpoint where the Hubsan H122D falls among the rest of the beginner drones because it’s a drone meant for racing, not for flying and aerial photography as most other drones, beginner and advanced, are meant for. Still, I will say the battery should be vastly improved upon, but the body and durability are excellent.
