If you've spent any time on social media lately, you've seen them: those impossibly smooth follow-cam shots of runners, cyclists, and hikers, all captured by what looks like a flying smartphone. That's the HOVERAir X1 series—and after months of real-world testing, I finally have a verdict. Spoiler: it's not as simple as "buy" or "skip."
"The HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX aren't trying to compete with DJI Mini or Mavic drones. They're creating an entirely new category: the autonomous personal cinematographer. And in that niche, they're genuinely impressive—with caveats."
— Simon Mauerklang, Editor-in-Chief at Drone NomadWhat Are the HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX?
Let's start with the basics. The HOVERAir X1 PRO ($499) and X1 PROMAX ($699) are what I'd call "flying action cameras." Unlike traditional drones that require a controller, piloting skills, and careful attention, these devices are designed to be launched from your palm and follow you autonomously. No sticks, no learning curve, no FAA registration required (under 250g in most configurations).
The concept originated with the original X1, which proved wildly popular among content creators tired of setting up tripods or begging friends to film them. The PRO and PROMAX versions significantly upgrade the camera systems, add more intelligent tracking, and—in the PROMAX's case—deliver honest-to-goodness 8K video recording.
X1 PRO vs PROMAX: Which One Should You Choose?
The $200 price difference between the PRO and PROMAX comes down to one major factor: the camera. Here's the honest breakdown:
| Specification | X1 PRO ($499) | X1 PROMAX ($699) |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/1.3" CMOS (12MP) | 1/1.3" CMOS (48MP) |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K/60fps | 8K/30fps |
| Video Bitrate | 100 Mbps | 160 Mbps |
| Internal Storage | 32GB | 64GB |
| Weight | ~118g | ~125g |
| Flight Time | ~12 min | ~10 min |
My recommendation: For most content creators, the X1 PRO at $499 is the smarter buy. 4K/60fps is more than sufficient for social media platforms, the extra flight time is noticeable, and you save $200. The 8K PROMAX makes sense only if you're a professional who genuinely needs the extra resolution for cropping in post or delivering to high-end clients.
The Good: What HOVERAir Gets Right
✓ Strengths
- •Truly effortless operation: Palm launch, auto-follow, palm landing. My 65-year-old mother could use this.
- •Remarkable subject tracking: The AI keeps you centered even during dynamic activities.
- •Pocketable portability: At 125g folded, this fits in a jacket pocket.
- •Excellent stabilization: The gimbal is surprisingly smooth for something this small.
- •10 intelligent flight modes: Hover, Follow, Orbit, Zoom Out, Bird's Eye—there's a mode for almost every shot.
- •No registration required: Under 250g means no FAA registration in the US for recreational use.
The Bad: Honest Problems You Need to Know
✗ Weaknesses
- •Limited flight time: 10-12 minutes is the real-world maximum.
- •Wind sensitivity: This tiny drone struggles in anything above light breezes.
- •No GPS: Unlike DJI drones, these don't have GPS for return-to-home.
- •Expensive batteries: Extra batteries run $69-89 each.
⚠️ Reality Check: The Wind Problem
I cannot stress this enough: if you live in a windy area or plan to shoot in exposed locations, the HOVERAir X1 will frustrate you. The DJI Mini 5 Pro—while heavier and requiring a controller—handles wind significantly better.
How It Compares: HOVERAir X1 PROMAX vs DJI Neo vs DJI Flip
| Feature | HOVERAir PROMAX | DJI Neo | DJI Flip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $699 | $199 | $439 |
| Max Resolution | 8K/30fps | 4K/30fps | 4K/60fps |
| Weight | 125g | 135g | 249g |
| Flight Time | ~10 min | ~18 min | ~31 min |
| GPS | No | Yes | Yes |
Who Should Buy the HOVERAir X1 PRO/PROMAX?
✓ Perfect For
- • Solo content creators (runners, cyclists, hikers)
- • Travel vloggers who prioritize portability
- • Social media creators needing quick follow shots
- • People who find traditional drones intimidating
✗ Not Ideal For
- • Professional cinematographers
- • Anyone shooting in windy conditions
- • Long-duration recording needs
- • Budget-conscious buyers (DJI Neo is cheaper)
Final Verdict: Is the HOVERAir X1 Worth It?
After months of testing, my conclusion is nuanced. The HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX are genuinely impressive pieces of technology that do exactly what they promise: follow you and capture smooth footage without any piloting skill required.
My Recommendation
Buy the X1 PRO ($499) if you're a content creator who wants hassle-free follow shots and can work around the flight time limitations.
Skip it if you need extended flight times, shoot in challenging weather, or want manual control. Consider the DJI Flip or DJI Neo 2 instead.
Simon Mauerklang tested the HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX over three months across California, Colorado, and the Pacific Northwest. This review was not sponsored by HOVERAir. Last updated January 2026.