Which HOVERAir Is Right for You? Comparing the X1 Smart, X1, X1 PRO|PROMAX, AQUA & VERSA – HOVERAir

Looking for the perfect HOVERAir camera? Whether you're a casual vlogger, a high-speed action sports enthusiast, or a water sports fanatic, HOVERAir has a model designed for you.

In this guide, we break down the key specs, features, and design philosophies across the entire HOVERAir lineup: X1 Smart, X1, X1 PRO, X1 PROMAX, AQUA, and VERSA—so you can easily find the best fit for your needs.

▶ HOVERAir X1 Smart (Only Available in JP/UK/KR/HK)

Quick At-a-Glance
- Price: Region-only
- Weight: 99g
- Max Flight Time: 10 min
- Waterproof Rating: —
- RTK Positioning: —
- Max Video Spec: 2.7K@30fps

📐 Physical Specs
- Positioning: Ultra‑light point‑and‑shoot
- Dimensions (L×W×H): Unfolded only: 142×114×27 mm; Not foldable

🎥 Camera & Video
- Video Resolution: 2.7K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps HDR, Vertical 1080p
- Slow Motion: 1080p@60fps
- Photo Resolution: 12MP
- Image Sensor: Sony IMX476
- FOV: 90°
- Video Bitrate: 32 Mbps
- Internal Storage: 32 GB
- Video Stabilization: Single‑axis gimbal + EIS
- Gimbal Controllable Range: -90° ~ 15°

✈️ Flight Performance
- Battery: 690 mAh
- Max Horizontal Speed: 25 km/h (auto‑follow)
- Max Ascent / Descent: 1.5 m/s
- Wind Resistance: Level 4 (7.9 m/s)
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 5000 m
- Max Flight Height: 15 m
- Transmission Range: App: up to 50 m
- Collision Detection: Downward only
- OmniTerrain: —

⚙️ Flight Modes & Companion Devices
- Special Flight Modes: 13 modes
Basic: Hover, Zoom out, Follow, Orbit, Bird’s eye
Skilled: Snapshot, Manual control, Dolly track, Angle track, Indoor follow, 360° Spin
Advanced: Smart control
- Companion Devices: Beacon+Joystick, Charging Hub, 18W adapter

▶ HOVERAir X1

Quick At-a-Glance
- Price: from $299 / 329€
- Weight: 125 g
- Max Flight Time: 11.5 min
- Waterproof Rating: —
- RTK Positioning: —
- Max Video Spec: 2.7K@30fps

📐 Physical Specs
- Positioning: Versatile point-and-shoot device
- Dimensions (L×W×H): Folded: 86×127×31 mm | Unfolded: 145×127×30 mm

🎥 Camera & Video
- Video Resolution: 2.7K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps HDR, Vertical 1080p
- Slow Motion: 1080p@60fps
- Photo Resolution: 12MP
- Image Sensor: 1/2.7'' CMOS
- FOV: 90°
- Video Bitrate: 32 Mbps
- Internal Storage: 32 GB
- Video Stabilization: Mechanical (pitch axis) +EIS
- Gimbal Controllable Range: -90° ~ 15°

✈️ Flight Performance
- Battery: 1050 mAh
- Max Horizontal Speed: 25 km/h (auto‑follow)
- Max Ascent / Descent: 1.5 m/s
- Wind Resistance: Level 4 (7.9 m/s)
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 5000 m
- Max Flight Height: 15 m
- Transmission Range: App: up to 50 m
- Collision Detection: Downward only
- OmniTerrain: —

⚙️ Flight Modes & Companion Devices
- Special Flight Modes:13 modes
Basic: Hover, Zoom out, Follow, Orbit, Bird’s eye
Skilled: Snapshot, Manual control, Dolly track, Angle track, Indoor follow, 360° Spin
Advanced: Smart control
- Companion Devices: Beacon+Joystick, Charging Hub, 18W adapter, ComboCase

▶ HOVERAir X1 PRO

Quick At-a-Glance
- Price: from $499 / 549€
- Weight: 192 g
- Max Flight Time: 16 min
- Waterproof Rating: —
- RTK Positioning: —
- Max Video Spec: 4K@60fps

📐 Physical Specs
- Positioning: Ideal for action-packed adventures
- Dimensions (L×W×H): Folded: 105×149×34 mm | Unfolded: 173×149×39 mm

🎥 Camera & Video
- Video Resolution: 4K@60fps, 1080p@120fps, Vertical 2.7K@60fps
- Slow Motion: 1080p@120fps
- Photo Resolution: 12MP
- Image Sensor: 1/2″ CMOS
- FOV: 104°
- Video Bitrate: 100 Mbps
- Internal Storage: 32 GB + microSD up to 1TB
- Video Stabilization: SmoothCapture 2.0, 2‑axis + EIS
- Gimbal Controllable Range: -90°~15°

✈️ Flight Performance
- Battery: 1920 mAh Smart / Thermo
- Max Flight Time: 16 min
- Max Horizontal Speed: 42 km/h
- Wind Resistance: Level 5 (10.7 m/s)
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 5500 m
- Transmission Range: App: 500 m / Beacon: 1 km
- Collision Detection: Rear active + proximity
- OmniTerrain: Available

⚙️ Flight Modes & Companion Devices
- Special Flight Modes:15 modes
Basic: Hover, Zoom out, Follow, Orbit, Bird’s eye
Skilled: Snapshot, Manual Control, Dolly track, Angle track, Dolly zoom, Ski Mode, 360° Spin, Spiral, Cycling Mode, Indoor follow
- Companion Devices: Beacon+Joystick, Power Case, Thermo Battery, 65W adapter, ND filters, HandleBar Mount, Carry Bag, Combo Case

▶ HOVERAir X1 PROMAX

Quick At-a-Glance
- Price: from $699 / 759€
- Weight: 192 g
- Max Flight Time: 16 min
- Waterproof Rating: —
- RTK Positioning: —
- Max Video Spec: 8K@30fps

📐 Physical Specs
- Positioning: Perfect for ultimate photography experiences
- Dimensions (L×W×H): Folded: 105×149×34 mm | Unfolded: 173×149×39 mm

🎥 Camera & Video
- Video Resolution: 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps, 10‑bit HLG vertical & HDR
- Slow Motion: 4K@120fps，1080p@120fps
- Photo Resolution: 12MP / 48MP
- Image Sensor: 1/1.3″ CMOS
- FOV: 107°
- Video Bitrate: 160 Mbps
- Internal Storage: 64 GB + microSD up to 1TB
- Video Stabilization: SmoothCapture 2.0, 2‑axis + EIS
- Gimbal Controllable Range: -90°~15°

▶ HOVERAir AQUA

Quick At-a-Glance
- Price: from $999 / €1624
- Weight: 249 g
- Max Flight Time: 23 min
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- RTK Positioning: Yes (via Lighthouse, cm-level precision)
- Max Video Spec: Horizontal 4K@100fps

📐 Physical Specs
- Positioning: Water-native self-flying camera for aquatic adventures
- Dimensions (L×W×H): 202×206×64 mm; Not foldable

🎥 Camera & Video
- Video Resolution: Horizontal: 4K@100fps（Slow-mo）, 4K@60FPS（Default）,1080p@100fps Vertical: 4K@30fps, 2.7K@60fps
- Slow Motion: 4K@100fps, 1080p@100fps
- Photo Resolution: 12MP (4000×3000)
- Image Sensor: 1/1.28″ CMOS
- FOV: 95° (24mm equiv.)
- Video Bitrate: 160 Mbps
- Internal Storage: 128 GB UFS 2.2 (no SD card)
- Video Stabilization: SmoothCapture 3.0,1‑axis gimbal + EIS + horizon leveling
- Gimbal Controllable Range: -90° to 30°

✈️ Flight Performance
- Battery: 2013 mAh (21.62 Wh), 89g
- Max Flight Time: 23 min
- Max Horizontal Speed: 55 km/h (34 mph)
- Max Ascent / Descent: 10.8 km/h (6.7 mph)
- Wind Resistance: Level 7 (up to 33 knots / 18.3 m/s)
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 5500 m
- Max Flight Height: 120 m (394 ft)
- Transmission Range: Lighthouse: up to 100 m
- Collision Detection: No obstacle avoidance (water‑optimized)
- OmniTerrain: Available

⚙️ Flight Modes & Companion Devices
- Special Flight Modes:14 modes
Basic: Hover, Zoom out, Follow, Orbit, Bird’s eye
Skilled: Manual Control, Dolly track, Angle track, 360° Spin, Spiral, Orbit Follow
Watermode: Kayak Mode, SUP Mode, Foil Mode
- Companion Devices: Lighthouse (wearable), Beacon+Joystick, waterproof battery bag, Charging Hub, WetSuit

▶HOVERAir VERSA

Quick At-a-Glance
- Price: $749
- Weight: White: 163g (Handheld) / 230g (Flying Camera); Black: 162g (Handheld) / 228g (Flying Camera)
- Max Flight Time: 14 min
- Waterproof Rating: —
- RTK Positioning: —
- Max Video Spec: 4K@60fps (16:9), 1080p@120fps; Vertical:4K@60fps

📐 Physical Specs
- Positioning: Compact handheld & aerial selfie flying camera
- Dimensions (L×W×H): Handheld: 38×38×147 mm | Flying Camera: 176×44×147 mm; Not foldable

🎥 Camera & Video
- Video Resolution: 4K@60fps (16:9), 1080p@120fps; Vertical: 4K@60fps, HDR / H‑Log (OTA) / AI Low-light
- Slow Motion: 1080p@120fps
- Photo Resolution: 12MP
- Image Sensor: 1/1.3" CMOS
- FOV: 110° (Ultra Wide), 98° (1×)
- Video Bitrate: 120 Mbps
- Internal Storage: 64 GB internal + microSD up to 1TB
- Video Stabilization: 3-axis gimbal + EIS
- Gimbal Controllable Range: Pitch: -20° to 90°; Roll: 0° to 180°

✈️ Flight Performance
- Battery: 2070 mAh / 14.74 Wh
- Max Flight Time: 14 min
- Max Horizontal Speed: 36 km/h
- Max Ascent / Descent: 3 m/s / 2 m/s
- Wind Resistance: Level 5
- Max Takeoff Altitude: 3500 m
- Max Flight Height: 15 m
- Transmission Range: Beacon&JoyStick: 500m; APP: 500m; MiCo: 50m
- Collision Detection: Downward: Vision Positioning + ToF
- OmniTerrain: Available

⚙️ Flight Modes & Companion Devices
- Special Flight Modes:11 modes
Basic: Hover, Zoom out, Follow, Orbit, Bird’s eye
Skilled: Manual, Dolly track, Angle track, 360° Spin, Spiral, Orbit Follow
- Companion Devices: Smart Mini MiCo Controller, Beacon+JoyStick, Charging Hub
- MiCo Controller Specs: Max range: 50m (MiCo) / 500m (Beacon&JoyStick); Max operating time: 5h; Max flight altitude: 15m; Direction adjustment: Yes; RTH: Yes; Voice Control: No

Feature	X1 Smart (JP/UK/KR/HK only)	X1	X1 PRO	X1 PROMAX	AQUA	VERSA
Positioning	Ultra-light point-and-shoot	Versatile point-and-shoot device	Ideal for action-packed adventures	Perfect for ultimate photography experiences	Water-native self-flying camera for aquatic adventures	Modular handheld & aerial selfie flying camera
Price	– (region-only)	from $299 / 329€	from $499 / 549€	from $699 / 759€	from $999 / €1624	Pre-order pricing
Weight	99 g	125 g	192 g	192 g	249 g	163g (camera only) 249g (full flight kit)
Dimensions (L×W×H)	Unfolded only: 142×114×27 mm	Folded: 127×127×21 mm Unfolded:171×127×52 mm	Folded:105×149×34 mm Unfolded:173×149×39 mm	Folded:105×149×34 mm Unfolded:173×149×39 mm	202×206×62 mm Non-foldable	Handheld:38×38×147mm Folded flight:148×107.5×45mm Unfolded flight:176×147×44mm
Waterproof Rating	—	—	—	—	IP67: Waterproof, buoyant, water takeoff & landing.	— (Not waterproof)
Buoyancy	—	—	—	—	Floatable — floats upright	—
ETC Positioning	—	—	—	—	Yes (via Lighthouse) — non-visual positioning	—
Lighthouse Controller	—	—	—	—	Included – 100 m range, IP67, 8h battery, VirtualTelepresence and auto-land	—
Video Resolution	2.7K@30fps / 2K@30fps 1080p@60fps	4K@60fps 1080p@120fps	4K@100fps 1080p@120fps	8K@30fps 4K@120fps 1080p@120fps	Horizon 4K@60fps 1080p@120fps	4K@60fps (10-bit HDR, H-LOG, Open Gate)
Slow Motion	1080p@60fps	1080p@120fps	1080p@120fps	1080p@120fps	1080p@120fps	1080p@120fps
Photo Resolution	12MP	12MP	12MP	12MP / 48MP	12MP (4000×3000)	12MP
Image Sensor	Sony IMX476	1/2.7" CMOS	1/2" CMOS	1/1.3" CMOS	1/1.28" CMOS	1/1.3" CMOS
FOV	90°	90°	104°	107°	95° (24mm equivalent)	90°, F2.0, 2x digital zoom
Battery	600 mAh	1050 mAh	1050 mAh	1915 mAh	1915 mAh (21.82 Wh), 89g	2070 mAh 180 mins (handheld) 14 mins (flight mode)
Max Flight Time	10 mins	11.5 mins	16 mins	16 mins	23 mins	14 mins
Max Horizontal Speed	28 km/h	28 km/h	42 km/h	42 km/h	39.6 km/h (24 mph)	36 km/h
Max Ascent / Descent	1.8 m/s	1.8 m/s	—	—	12.8 km/h (8.7 mph)	Ascent:3 m/s Descent:2 m/s
Wind Resistance	Level 4 (7.8 m/s)	Level 4 (7.8 m/s)	Level 5 (10.7 m/s)	Level 5 (10.7 m/s)	Level 7 (up to 33 km/h / 18.3 m/s)	Level 5 (10.7 m/s)
Max Takeoff Altitude	5000 m	5000 m	5000 m	5000 m	5000 m	3500 m
Max Flight Height	15 m	15 m	—	—	120 m (394 ft)	—
Transmission Range	App: up to 50 m	App: up to 50 m	App: 800 m / Extension:1 km	App: 800 m / Extension:1 km	Lighthouse: up to 100 m	Up to 100 m
Video Bitrate	32 Mbps	32 Mbps	100 Mbps	160 Mbps	100 Mbps	120 Mbps
Internal Storage	32 GB	32 GB	32 GB + microSD up to 1TB	64 GB + microSD up to 1TB	128 GB UFS 2.2 (plus SD card)	64 GB, support microSD up to 1TB
Video Stabilization	Single-axis gimbal + EIS	Mechanical gimbal + EIS	3-axis mechanical gimbal + EIS	3-axis mechanical gimbal + EIS	3-axis gimbal + EIS + horizon leveling	3-axis mechanical gimbal + AI stabilization
Gimbal Controllable Range	-80° ~ +18°	-87° ~ +17°	-87° ~ +17°	-87° ~ +17°	-90° ~ +30°	Supports 360° cinematic spin (Dutch roll / Inception mode)
Collision Detection	Command-only	Command-only	Real active + proximity	Vision + proximity near	No standalone avoidance (multi-objective 4D)	Real-time + proximity warning
Obstacle Avoidance	—	—	Available	Available	Available	Available

Note on RTK & Lighthouse: The AQUA uses Real‑Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning via the included Lighthouse wearable. Lighthouse provides cm‑level GNSS accuracy (GPS+Galileo+BeiDou+GLONASS) and enables functions like VirtualTether (auto‑recall if you move too far), Co‑Pilot (direction adjustment), and reliable water‑surface tracking. Without Lighthouse, AQUA relies on standard GNSS + VIO. The Lighthouse itself is IPX7 waterproof and positively buoyant – it can float if dropped in water.
Note on Tracking Technology: The HOVERAir X1 series uses advanced face and body recognition to track human subjects. This means it won’t be able to follow if a person isn’t clearly visible (for example, inside a vehicle).

Note 1: AQUA & VERSA is not currently available for purchase in the United States.
Note 2: Prices are approximate and may vary by region.

Spotlight on the Newest Additions: AQUA & VERSA

🌊 AQUA: The Water Specialist

AQUA is the only fully waterproof, buoyant, self-righting flying camera in the lineup. It takes off from and lands directly on water.

Lighthouse & RTK Positioning: The AQUA comes with a wearable Lighthouse controller that enables Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning. This provides cm-level GPS accuracy and enables VirtualTether (auto-recall if you drift too far away) and Co-Pilot (adjusting the flying camera's direction without changing your path).
Water-Optimized Modes: Built specifically for aquatic sports, AQUA features dedicated Paddleboard, Kayak, and Surf modes.
Built to Float: If it lands upside down, it self-rights. The hydrophobic lens and self-heating anti-fog ensure clear shots even in choppy waters.
Best for: Wakeboarding, jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding.

📸 VERSA: The Handheld-Aerial Hybrid

VERSA bridges the gap between a pocket camera and a flying camera. It features folding wings. You can use it as a standalone handheld camera (like a selfie stick), or attach the Flight Kit to turn it into a flying combo in seconds.

With its innovative foldable wings, it transforms in seconds.

Form 1: Handheld Camera. Fold the wings, and it functions as a standalone pocket-size camera with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal for buttery smooth, shake-free footage.
Form 2: Flying Combo. Unfold the wings, attach the flight kit, and it becomes an aerial flying camera with hands-free auto-follow.
Best for: Vloggers, travelers, and daily creators who want both a selfie stick and a flying camera without carrying two separate devices.

Shadow Track Technology: A Deliberate Design Choice

(Applies to: X1 PRO, PROMAX, AQUA, and VERSA)

Many users ask: "Why doesn't HOVERAir have forward-facing obstacle avoidance?" The answer is a deliberate design philosophy called Shadow Track.

Instead of flying ahead and risking false brakes due to complex sensors, Shadow Track keeps the flying camera flying behind you, following the path you have already cleared. You are the obstacle detector.

The Benefit: No sensor lag, no false brakes. This allows the flying camera to track smoothly at high speeds (up to 55 km/h on AQUA) whether you are skiing, cycling, or wakeboarding.
The Trade-off (Honest Boundary): This design is optimized for open trails, slopes, and water. It is not intended for dense forest single-track.
Note: Rear-facing sensors are only available on X1 PRO|PROMAX to protect the flying camera when it flies backward (Dolly Track, Dolly Zoom mode). The AQUA and VERSA rely on Shadow Track and their respective environment detection systems (water-surface radar for AQUA, ToF for VERSA) but do not have rear-facing obstacle sensors.

Decision Matrix: Which Hybrid or Action Flying Camera Is Right for You?

📸 VERSA vs. AQUA: The Newcomer Showdown

Feature	VERSA	AQUA
Primary Use	Handheld & Aerial Hybrid	Water-Native Specialist
Best For	Vlogging, daily travel, dual-purpose creators	Wakeboarding, surfing, jetskiing, water sports
Key Differentiator	Foldable wings, switch between pocket camera & flying camera	IP67 fully waterproof, floats, RTK+Lighthouse
Max Speed	36 km/h	55 km/h
Key Recommendation	Choose VERSA if you want one device for both ground and air.	Choose AQUA if your primary playground is the water.

⚡ VERSA vs. X1 PRO|PROMAX: The OmniTerrain Dilemma

"All three have OmniTerrain. How do I choose?"

Feature	VERSA	X1 PRO\|PROMAX
Form Factor	Handheld + Aerial (Foldable)	Pure Aerial (Foldable)
Max Speed	36 km/h	42 km/h
Camera / Video	4K@60fps, 3-axis gimbal	PRO: 4K@60fps, PROMAX: 8K@30fps
Best For	Lifestyle vloggers who need flexibility	Hardcore cyclists, skiers, and extreme sports
Key Recommendation	Choose VERSA for versatile, everyday creative capture.	Choose PROMAX for professional-grade aerial cinematography.

📌 OmniTerrain Clarification: While the AQUA does include OmniTerrain, it is optimized for water environments. If your primary need is mixed ground terrain like grass, gravel, or snow, the X1 PRO|PROMAX or the VERSA are the better choices.

Use-Case Guide: Find Your Perfect Flying Camera

If you are a water sports enthusiast (surfing, sailing, kayaking): Choose AQUA – waterproof, buoyant, RTK+Lighthouse, 23-min flight.
If you are a Vlogger or Traveler who wants a 2-in-1 device: Choose VERSA – foldable wings, handheld-to-aerial in seconds.
If you are a hardcore cyclist or skier: Choose X1 PRO – 42 km/h tracking, 4K@60fps, balanced performance.
If you are a professional filmmaker or pixel-peeper: Choose X1 PROMAX – 8K@30fps, 10-bit HLG, best slow-mo.
If you want a simple, everyday flying camera: Choose X1 – light, affordable, and reliable.
If you are in JP/UK/KR/HK and want ultra-light: Choose X1 Smart – 99g, non-folding.

FAQ: What You Need to Know

Q1: Can HOVERAir flying cameras follow me if I'm wearing a helmet or face mask?

A1: The X1 series uses advanced face and body recognition. If a person is not clearly visible (e.g., inside a vehicle, fully covered, or in low light), the flying camera may lose tracking.

Q2: Does the AQUA work without the Lighthouse?

A2: Yes, but with standard GNSS only. To unlock cm-level RTK accuracy, VirtualTether auto-recall, and reliable water-surface tracking, you must use the included Lighthouse wearable.

Q3: Does the VERSA have a microSD card slot?

A3: Yes, the VERSA includes 64GB internal storage and supports microSD cards up to 1TB.

Q4: Which Flying Camera has the best wind resistance?

A4: The AQUA has a Level 7 wind resistance (up to 33 knots), making it the best choice for sea breezes that would ground other flying cameras.

Storage & Accessories

Built-in Storage & Expandability:

X1: 32 GB built-in.
X1 PRO: 32 GB built-in + microSD support (up to 1 TB).
X1 PROMAX: 64 GB built-in + microSD support (up to 1 TB).
VERSA: 64 GB built-in + microSD support (up to 1 TB).
AQUA: 128 GB UFS 2.2 built-in (no microSD slot). This is enough for roughly 1 hour of 4K@100fps H.265 footage.

What’s in the Box / Key Accessories:

X1: Charging Hub, 18W adapter, Combo Case.
X1 PRO / PROMAX: Beacon+Joystick, Power Case, Thermo Smart Battery, 65W adapter, ND filters, HandleBar Mount, Carry Bag, Combo Case.
AQUA: Lighthouse (wearable controller, IPX7 waterproof, buoyant), waterproof battery bag, Charging Hub (supports dual-battery parallel charging).
VERSA: Beacon+JoyStick, MiCo smart controller, Charging Hub.

Best for:

Need tons of storage? The AQUA (128 GB) is your best bet for long, high-frame-rate water sessions.
Need modular accessories? The X1 PRO / PROMAX ecosystem offers the widest range of mounts, ND filters, and extra batteries.
Want a wearable controller? The AQUA's Lighthouse and the VERSA's MiCo controller offer wearable alternatives to standard remotes.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?

Choosing the right flying camera often comes down to how and where you plan to use it. Are you carving down a mountain slope, filming a vlog, or riding the waves?

We know it's a lot to compare in one article. That's why we've built two easy tools on our official website to help you decide:

Take the Quiz: Answer a few quick questions about your hobbies, filming style, and environment. We'll instantly recommend the best model for you.
Compare: Want to dive into the numbers? Use our official comparison page to see every spec side-by-side — from camera sensors to battery life and max speed.

👉 Ready to find your fit? [Take the Quiz] or [Compare] on our website.

Whether you choose the water-native AQUA, the versatile hybrid VERSA, the action-ready PROMAX, or the everyday X1, there's a HOVERAir designed to capture your world.

Happy flying — and we can't wait to see what you create!