> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.geprc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.geprc.com/01-getting-started/fpv-basic-conecpts/2.-drone-categories.md). # 2. Drone Categories FPV drones come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. For beginners, the most intuitive way to classify them is based on **Purpose** and **Frame Structure**. Choosing the right drone depends entirely on how you want to fly: Do you want to capture smooth, cinematic footage indoors? Or do you want to experience the adrenaline of extreme speed and freestyle tricks? Here are the four main categories currently promoted by **GEPRC**: {% stepper %} {% step %} ### Cinewhoop (Ducted) > **Keywords:** Safe, O4 HD Video, Cinematic, Indoor Filming This is one of the most popular categories for content creators. Their defining feature is the **Propeller Guards (Ducts)**. This design significantly improves safety and optimizes aerodynamics for stable, low-speed flight. #### Characteristics * **High Safety:** The guards act as a buffer when hitting objects or people, making them perfect for flying indoors, around crowds, or in tight spaces. * **Smooth Footage:** The flight feel is "locked-in" and stable. When paired with the latest **DJI O4 Air Unit**, the image quality rivals professional cinema cameras. * **Payload:** Typically capable of carrying a **Naked GoPro** or **DJI Action** series camera. #### GEPRC Recommendations * **Cinelog Series (Cinelog35 V3 / Cinelog30 V3):** The classic workhorse has evolved to **V3**. Fully compatible with the DJI O4 Air Unit and featuring increased thrust, it is the top choice for carrying full-sized action cameras. * **Cinebot Series (Cinebot25 V2):** The 2026 bestseller. The upgraded V2 version features stronger protection and intelligent **AI PID tuning presets**, making it perfect for urban exploration. * **DarkStar Series (DarkStar16 / DarkStar22):** Designed for extreme light weight and low noise. Ideal for sound-sensitive environments like museums or libraries. {% endstep %} {% step %} ### Cinematic Freestyle > **Keywords:** Vapor Series, Versatile, Flow, Mid-to-Long Range A rising category that sits between pure Freestyle and Long Range. It combines the agility of a freestyle quad with the stability needed for filming. It is the best tool for chasing cars, mountain surfing, and capturing dynamic open-world footage. #### Characteristics * **Optimized Structure:** Often uses a **DeadCat** geometry or special folding designs to ensure **no propellers appear in the camera view**. * **Endurance:** Flies longer than pure racing drones, allowing you to compose long cinematic shots without battery anxiety. #### GEPRC Recommendations * **Vapor Series (Vapor-D5 / Vapor-X5):** GEPRC's latest lightweight flagship. Designed specifically for long flight times and silky-smooth handling, it is the 2025 weapon of choice for mountain surfing and car chasing. * **MARK5 DC O4 Pro:** A **DeadCat** version based on the classic MARK5 frame, optimized for the O4 system to eliminate prop view in your FPV feed. {% endstep %} {% step %} ### Hardcore Freestyle > **Keywords:** Durable, High Power, Tricks, Bashing This is the core spirit of FPV. Usually 5-inch drones, designed with pure performance and durability in mind. If you see videos of drones diving down skyscrapers or flipping through abandoned buildings (Bandos), that is Freestyle. #### Characteristics * **Overpowered:** Extremely high thrust-to-weight ratio with instant throttle response. * **Rugged Build:** Uses thick carbon fiber arms and 7075 aluminum parts to withstand high-impact **crashes**. * **Agility:** Capable of performing complex tricks like Power Loops and Matty Flips. #### GEPRC Recommendations * **MARK5 O4 Pro (Wide X):** Our star performer. The O4 Pro version retains the unique **Wide X** geometry (solving the "Jello effect") while perfectly accommodating the larger O4 Air Unit. {% endstep %} {% step %} ### Long Range (LR) > **Keywords:** Endurance, GPS, High Altitude, Cruising If you want to climb mountain peaks, cross straits, or explore scenery kilometers away, you need a Long Range drone. These drones sacrifice some "punch" (burst power) in exchange for extreme motor efficiency and long flight times. #### Characteristics * **Extreme Endurance:** When paired with **Li-ion batteries**, flight times typically range from **20 to 40 minutes**. * **Mandatory GPS:** Equipped with high-performance M10 GPS modules, featuring **"Return to Home" (RTH)** capabilities in case of signal loss. #### GEPRC Recommendations * **MOZ7 V2:** The latest upgrade to our 7-inch flagship. Features reinforced side plates and O4 compatibility. It has immense payload capacity and wind resistance, ideal for high-altitude adventures. * **Tern-LR40:** A new choice for 4-inch lightweight long range. Its foldable design makes it highly portable, perfect for hiking and backpacking. {% endstep %} {% endstepper %} ## Quick Selection Guide | Your Primary Use Case | Recommended Category | GEPRC Latest Model (2025/2026) | | ----------------------------------------- | -------------------- | ------------------------------ | | **Indoor / Vlogging / People** | Cinewhoop | **Cinebot25 V2**, DarkStar22 | | **All-rounder / Mountain / Car Chasing** | Cinematic Freestyle | **Vapor-D5**, Cinelog35 V3 | | **Skill Training / Tricks / Bashing** | Freestyle | **MARK5 O4 Pro** | | **Mountain Surfing / Cloud Surfing / LR** | Long Range | **MOZ7 V2**, Tern-LR40 | --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. 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