JJRC have made a name for themselves for their popular range of drones, that not only have impressive specifications, but also affordable prices. Today, we are talking about one of them, the JJRC X8 Quadcopter. It includes all the features you would expect from a modern consumer drone. While it is not the fastest one is their range, it is certainly a good option for beginners and casual flyers.
| Wheelbase | 310 mm |
| Weight | 440 grams |
| Camera | full HD |
| Battery | 7.4V 1800mAh LiPo |
| Flight time | 16 to 18 minutes |
X8: Design
When you first look at this drone, it might actually look familiar to you. This is because the design is very similar to the MJX Bugs 2. You could also call the X8 a rebranded version of it. The difference lays in its all black color scheme and honeycomb pattern on the top. For many, this is even much nicer and sleek-looking, as it gives off a futuristic vibe.
The looks are not all there is. It also has a robust build that is not easy to break, so therefore it can handle a few crashes. The only downside in its design is that it is not foldable, so if you plan on taking it with you on trips, you should definitely consider a good carry case, or backpack for it. Like most consumer drones on the market, you will notice that the X8 has LED lights underneath each rotor that also act as small landing legs. They also let you know when the drone compass has been fully calibrated, and based on the way they flash, you can tell in which flying mode the drone is. On the bottom, you can find a micro SD card slot that allows you to record video footage and store photos in a better quality. The card is not included in the package, so make sure you already have one before buying this drone.
X8: Camera
The X8 has a fixed, integrated, 1080p camera that can record video footage at 25 FPS. Also, it can stream live video footage over a 5G WiFi connection, at 720p. While it is a decent camera for the price range, it is not a professional one. Therefore, it does not have any kind of stabilisation features and you will notice some distortion, like shakiness and jello effect. In return, it does have an image sensor that is able to take 8MP still photos. Overall, the quality of the camera is good, especially if you decide to use a micro SD card.
X8: Battery and Flight time
The flight time for the X8 is around 18 minutes. However, usually, these numbers are slightly overrated. Because of this, you should expect something around 15 to 16 minutes, which is still definitely a decent time for a drone so accessible. If you do want a longer time, it would be advisable to get one or two extra batteries, so you would not have to wait until the first one is fully recharged in order to fly again.
The 7.4V 1800mAh battery is modular and fits nicely in the back of the X8. It does take a few hours to charge back up, which is why you should think about getting some extras.
X8: Remote controller
The remote controller of the X8 is nice looking, with a curved design that feels comfortable in your hands. It requires 4 AA batteries that, unfortunately, are not included in the package, so you need to go ahead and get some. On the controller, you will notice a small LED screen on the bottom, which will communicate vital information about the drone. Also, you will find that there is a phone holder for your smartphone.
The transmission range is approximately 800 meters, but when you use the X8 in the FPV mode, it goes down to 500 meters. In order to be able to access FPV, you will need to download the JJRC X app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. It is easy to use, with a friendly UI, and even though some reported that crashes frequently, this issue does not seem to occur with newer smartphone models.
X8: Flight performance
The X8 is equipped with powerful brushless motors that offer many advantages: they are more efficient, faster, do not overheat, last longer, and do not require regular cleaning. Also, thanks to them, the drone is able to fly even in windy conditions. It also hovers accurately and is very stable. Another thing that contributes to the impressive flight performance is the GPS system, that also allows for the presence of the following intelligent flight modes:
Follow me
A mode that is pretty self explanatory by the name, the drone locks on your smartphone and then follows you from behind.
Waypoint
With this, you will be able to draw a flight path through the app and make the X8 follow it automatically. After it does so, it will return to its flight of origin.
Orbit
This is a fun mode that allows you to choose a point of interest that the drone will fly around. Therefore, you will be able to capture photos and videos from all of the possible angles.
Automatic Return Home
This can be activated manually by pressing the adequate button found both on the remote controller and the app. Also, this mode will activate automatically when the drone runs out of battery or loses connection.
The package of the JJRC X8 includes:
- The drone itself
- Remote controller
- 12 main blades
- Mobile phone retaining clip
- Charger
- Screwdriver
- Instruction Manual
- 2 x 7.4V 1800mAh LiPo batteries
- Handbag
If you think this drone would be a good fit for you, you will be happy to learn that you can get it for a great price both on Amazon and Banggood. Let us know about your experience with it! Have a safe flight!
