Antigravity A1 Review: The World's First 360-Degree Drone Put to the Test

I've been flying drones and shooting action cameras professionally for over a decade. I've tested everything from the original GoPro Hero to the Insta360 X5, and I thought I'd seen it all. Then the Antigravity A1 landed on my doorstep, and I had to completely rethink what's possible with aerial 360-degree content. After three weeks of intensive testing across mountains, coastlines, and urban environments, here's my comprehensive review.

What Makes the Antigravity A1 Special?

The Antigravity A1 is the first consumer drone with an integrated 8K 360-degree camera system—not a separate action camera strapped on top, but a purpose-built dual-lens system based on Insta360's proven technology. Antigravity is actually a spin-off from Insta360, which explains why the camera quality is so impressive right out of the gate.

At exactly 249 grams with the standard battery, it squeaks in under the FAA registration threshold for recreational flyers. That's an engineering marvel considering it packs two ultra-wide lenses, 55MP capture capability, and obstacle detection sensors into a package smaller than most conventional camera drones.

Flying Experience: The Vision Goggles Change Everything

Here's where the A1 diverges dramatically from traditional drones. There's no smartphone mount, no RC with a built-in screen. Instead, you fly exclusively through the included Vision Goggles—a headset with dual 4K OLED displays that puts you directly in the cockpit.

The Grip Motion Controller works one-handed: point where you want to go, pull the trigger to fly. Head tracking moves your camera view naturally. It sounds gimmicky, but after 15 minutes, I was flying more intuitively than I ever have with traditional sticks. The learning curve exists, but it's surprisingly gentle for experienced pilots.

Two Flight Modes: Free Motion vs. FPV

Free Motion combines head tracking with the Grip controller—point where you want to go, and the drone follows your gaze. It's incredibly intuitive for capturing subjects and works brilliantly for narrative shots where you're tracking action.

FPV Mode relies more on the controller's motion sensors and includes a fun "Virtual Cockpit" feature where you can overlay animations like riding a dragon or flying a spacecraft. It doesn't affect your footage—it's just for fun—but my kids absolutely loved it.

Image Quality: Stunning, But Know the Limitations

Let's be clear: the A1's 8K 360-degree footage is exceptional. Colors are vibrant and accurate, digital stabilization is rock solid despite no gimbal, and the ability to reframe in post is transformative for content creation.

That said, there are real limitations compared to premium single-camera drones like the DJI Mini 4 Pro or Mavic 3 Pro:

For action camera professionals like myself, these limitations are familiar trade-offs. If you're used to shooting with Insta360 or GoPro MAX, you'll adapt quickly. Cinematographers expecting Mavic 3 Pro-level footage will be disappointed—this is action-camera-quality video, not cinema-grade.

Battery Life: My Biggest Disappointment

Antigravity rates the standard battery at 24 minutes and the extended battery at 39 minutes. My real-world experience?Significantly lower.

With the extended battery, I consistently got around 26 minutes before low-battery warnings kicked in, leaving about 6 minutes of safety margin. That means usable flight time is closer to 20 minutes with the big battery, and probably 16-18 minutes with the standard one. For a $1,599 drone, that's disappointing—especially when the DJI Mini 5 Pro gets a genuine 36 minutes.

Wind Resistance: Know Your Limits

The A1 is rated for Class 5 wind resistance (up to 24 mph gusts), but in practice, it struggled with anything above moderate breeze. During my coastal shoots with 17 mph gusts, I received constant high-wind warnings once I flew above treetop level. The drone never got into trouble, but it was clearly fighting to maintain position.

My advice: check the weather forecast and save the A1 for calmer days. It's not a storm chaser.

Automated Flight Modes

The A1 includes three automated modes that worked well in my testing:

Editing Workflow: The Learning Curve Is Real

360-degree video editing isn't intuitive if you're coming from traditional video. You need to "reframe" your footage— essentially choosing what portion of the sphere to show and adding virtual camera movements. Antigravity provides both mobile and desktop apps, but expect a learning curve.

File sizes are massive—about 1.3GB per minute of 8K footage. My Mac Studio (M1 Max, 64GB RAM) converts a 1-minute clip in about 80 seconds. If you're on a less powerful machine, expect longer processing times. The included Quick Reader ($49.99 separate, included in Infinity bundle) transfers at about 4.3GB/minute via USB-C, which is essential for larger shoots.

Antigravity A1 vs DJI Avata 360 (Upcoming)

With DJI's Avata 360 reportedly launching this month, competition in the 360-degree drone space is about to heat up. Based on leaked specs:

Given the DJI ban situation in the US, the Avata 360 may have limited availability for American buyers. The A1's main advantage right now is that it's available today, and Antigravity isn't facing regulatory uncertainty.

Motion Sickness Warning

I have to mention this: my first 15-minute flight with the Vision Goggles left me with a headache and mild nausea for about an hour afterward. This was surprising—I've used DJI Avata and FPV Combo without issues. Subsequent flights were fine, but if you're prone to motion sickness, start with short sessions.

FAQ: Antigravity A1 Common Questions

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Antigravity A1?

After three weeks with the A1, I'm genuinely impressed—but I'm also realistic about who this drone is for.

The Antigravity A1 is available now starting at $1,599. For creators serious about 360-degree content, I'd recommend the $1,899 Explorer Bundle with extra batteries—you'll thank yourself after your first shoot.