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Consumer Drones Market Size 2024-2028

The consumer drones market size is forecast to increase by USD 8.26 billion at a CAGR of 18.52% between 2023 and 2028.

The consumer drones market is driven by advancements in sensors and the emergence of low-cost drones, which are enhancing performance and making drone technology more accessible to a wider audience. An upcoming trend in the market is the availability of affordable consumer drones. As technology improves and manufacturing costs decrease, more consumers are able to purchase drones for recreational, photography, and other personal uses, leading to a surge in market growth and adoption. 
However, the market is also facing challenges, including stringent government regulations regarding the use of consumer drones. Despite these hurdles, the future of the consumer drone market looks promising, with continued innovation and technological advancements driving growth. The market analysis report provides a comprehensive examination of these trends and challenges, offering valuable insights for stakeholders and industry participants.

What will be the Size of the Consumer Drones Market During the Forecast Period?

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The consumer drone market continues to evolve, driven by the increasing popularity of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various applications. This market encompasses a range of drone types, including toy/hobbyist drones, fixed wing drones, hybrid type drones, and nano drones. While hobbyists and enthusiasts primarily use toy drones for recreational purposes, businesses are exploring consumer drone applications in areas like law enforcement, photogrammetry, drone racing, and novel electronics technology. 
Start-up businesses are also emerging, driving production and consumption patterns in this market. However, privacy concerns and the risk of mishaps pose challenges. Technological modifications, such as improved battery life and advanced features, continue to enhance consumer drone products.
The adjacent market for drone accessories and services also contributes to revenue growth. Through scenario-based analysis, Technavio forecasts a robust future for the consumer drone market.

How is this Consumer Drones Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The consumer drones industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Product

  Multirotor
  Fixed wing
  Single rotor


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Application

  Prosumer
  Toy/Hobbyist
  Photogrammetry


Geography

  North America

    US


  APAC

    China


  Europe

    UK
    France


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The multirotor segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Consumer drones, specifically multirotor drones, have gained significant traction in various industries and recreational use. These drones, which include toy drones, nano drones, and high-end models, serve diverse applications such as aerial photography, law enforcement, and drone racing. Multirotor drones, the easiest to manufacture and fly, are classified based on the number of rotors, including tricopters, quadcopters, hexacopters, and octocopters. Fixed-wing drones and hybrid type drones are alternative options. Consumer drone products cater to different segments, including hobbyists, enthusiasts, and businesses. Start-ups and established companies invest in novel electronics technology to develop innovative features, safety concerns, and advanced speed technologies.

Navigation technologies and integrated gas systems are technological breakthroughs enhancing drone performance. Regulatory environment and safety concerns are crucial factors influencing the industry. The consumer drone market is expected to witness substantial revenue growth, driven by scenario-based analysis, industry interviews, and technological modifications. Applications include photogrammetry, production patterns, and consumption patterns. Privacy concerns and risk of mishaps remain challenges. Limited battery life and high initial costs are other factors impacting the market. Camera drones, selfie drones, entry-level drones, mid-range drones, and high-end drones cater to diverse consumer needs.

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The Multirotor segment was valued at USD 2.73 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 36% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market

The North American Drone Market Report is Segmented by Application (Construction, Agriculture, Energy, Law Enforcement, Medical, Parcel Delivery, and Other Applications) and Geography (United States and Canada). The Market Size and Forecasts for Above all Segments are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Categorized by product type, the U.S. consumer drone market encompasses multi-rotors, nano drones, and other types. Multi-rotors continue to dominate the market, offering versatility and stability for both recreational and business applications. Nano drones are gaining popularity due to their compact size and maneuverability, ideal for indoor use. Other drone types, including fixed-wing and hybrid drones, cater to specialized needs and combine features from both multi-rotor and fixed-wing designs. Recent developments include: In February 2022, Skyfish, a U.S. drone manufacturer, announced a technical collaboration with Sony Electronics to deliver drones with high-quality data gathering and photogrammetry capabilities. , In April 2021, Horizon Hobby acquired Real Flight, a prominent remote-controlled (RC) flight simulation software from the company named Knife Edge Software. Through this acquisition, the company aims to enhance the simulation software with cutting-edge and innovative features in their RC flights. .

The revenue in the 'Drones' segment of the consumer electronics market in the United States was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2029 by in total 0.03 billion U.S. dollars (+2.17 percent). The indicator is estimated to amount to 1.41 billion U.S. dollars in 2029. Find more information concerning Thailand and Indonesia. The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

• Consumer Drone Market Scope:

Global Consumer Drone Market is estimated to be valued US$ XX.X million in 2019. The report on Consumer Drone Market provides qualitative as well as quantitative analysis in terms of market dynamics, competition scenarios, opportunity analysis, market growth, etc. for the forecast year up to 2029. The global consumer drone market is segmented on the basis of type, application, and geography.

In 2019, the North America market is valued US$ XX.X million and the market share is estimated X.X%, and it is expected to be US$ XX.X million and X.X% in 2029, with a CAGR X.X% from 2020 to 2029. Read More

China is leading the ranking by revenue in the 'Drones' segment of the consumer electronics market, recording 1.53 billion U.S. dollars. Following closely behind is the United States with 1.38 billion U.S. dollars.Find other insights concerning similar markets and segments, such as a ranking by country regarding average price per unit (PPU) in the digital cameras segment of the consumer electronics market and a ranking of subsegments in Worldwide regarding revenue in the Consumer Electronics market as a whole.The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

North America Drones Market size is experiencing rapid growth, with significant expansion projected for 2024-2031.

Key Market Drivers:

Commercial Use Expansion: The commercial drone fleet in the U.S. is projected to grow significantly, with the FAA reporting over 350,000 registered commercial drones as of January 2024. This growth is driven by sectors such as logistics, mapping, and public safety.

Technological Advancements: Continuous improvements in drone technology, including enhanced sensors, better battery life, and advanced imaging capabilities, are driving demand across various industries for more efficient operations.

According to DRONEII, the global drone market is anticipated to grow from 26.3 billion U.S. dollars in 2021 to 54.6 billion U.S. dollars by 2030. The drone market is made up of various segments which include defense, enterprise, consumer, public safety, logistics, and passenger.

The North America Consumer Drone Market is valued at USD 3.2 billion, driven by technological advancements, expanding use in recreational activities, and increasing interest in aerial photography.

The Drone Market is estimated to reach USD 95.4 Bn By 2034, Riding on a Strong 10.1% CAGR throughout the forecast period.

The consumer drones revenue worldwide was forecast to increase between 2015 and 2021. The revenue generated from consumer drones was forecast to amount to around over five billion U.S. dollars by 2021.

In 2020, the United States (U.S.) was the largest market for aerial drones throughout the world, with eight billion U.S. dollars. The U.S. is anticipated to maintain this stronghold as the region with the largest drone market through 2030. Other noteworthy regions for the drone market include Asia-Pacific and Europe.

This time series represents the projected size of the global retail consumer drone market from 2017 through 2020. It is expected that, by 2020, the retail consumer drone market will grow to around 3.3 billion U.S. dollars globally.

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Tethered Drones Market Size 2024-2028

The tethered drones market size is forecast to increase by USD 24.9 million at a CAGR of 6.18% between 2023 and 2028.

The global warehousing and storage market is experiencing steady growth, driven by rising demand from e-commerce and advancements in automation technology. Shifts in consumer behavior, particularly the preference for faster delivery, are pushing companies to expand warehouse networks, while innovations like automated storage systems and robotics are improving efficiency to meet these needs.
This report delivers actionable insights for businesses, detailing market size, growth forecasts through 2029, and key segments like leased warehousing, which holds the largest share. It explores trends such as the increasing adoption of smart warehouse solutions and warehouse management systems and addresses challenges like supply chain disruptions that impact operations. Designed for practical use, the report supports strategic planning, client engagement, and operational adjustments with data-backed analysis.
For companies navigating the global warehousing and storage market, this report offers a clear view of emerging trends and persistent challenges, providing the tools needed to stay competitive in a dynamic landscape.

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The market encompasses the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that remain connected to a ground control station via a tether for extended periods. This technology is increasingly being adopted in various sectors, including carrier networks for radio planning and line-of-sight testing. Antenna installation and connection maintenance are also facilitated by tethered drones. In the realm of first responders and disaster recovery, these drones are employed for infrastructure inspection, event monitoring, and data collection. Ad hoc networks and cellular coverage expansion are further applications. Infrared cameras and flying COW drones are integral components, enabling functions such as crop monitoring in precision agriculture, data transmission, surveillance, and monitoring. Machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence enhance the capabilities of tethered drones, expanding their use in security, reconnaissance, and cargo capacity enhancement. Data transmission capabilities are a critical factor in the market's growth.

Market Segmentation

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

End-user

  Defense
  Telecommunication
  Inspection and others


Type

  Multi-copter
  Quadcopter


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By End-user Insights

The defense segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Tethered drones have emerged as a significant market trend in various sectors, including defense, first responders, and commercial applications. The advancements in microelectronic components and technology have led to the development of these drones, which offer extended surveillance capabilities for hours at a time. Tethered drones are designed for ease of transportation, quick deployment, and minimal operating skills, making them an essential tool for security forces. Carrier networks and radio planning play a crucial role in ensuring seamless connection for tethered drones. Line-of-sight testing and antenna installation are essential components of the deployment process.

Military and commercial drones equipped with infrared aerial cameras and EO/IR payloads offer ISR solutions for various applications. Infrared sensors and sensors in general are essential components for monitoring and inspection tasks. Controller systems, cameras, batteries, and sensors are key product lines in the tethered drone market. Mission profiles for tethered drones vary from sector to sector, with military applications requiring high-security features and commercial applications focusing on cost-effectiveness and ease of use. The tethered drone market is expected to grow, with new product releases and advancements in technology driving innovation.

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The defense segment accounted for USD 36.20 million in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

North America is estimated to contribute 55% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on the ma

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Drone market size will be USD 30541.5 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.20% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 12216.60 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 9162.45 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 7024.55 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1527.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 610.83 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% from 2024 to 2031.
The commercial category is the fastest-growing segment of the Drone industry

Market Dynamics of Drone Market

Key Drivers for Drone Market

Technological Advancements and Cost Reductions to Boost Market Growth

Technological advancements in drone components, such as sensors, batteries, and navigation systems, have significantly enhanced their performance, making them more versatile and reliable. With improvements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, drones are now capable of performing more complex tasks, including real-time data processing and autonomous operations. These advancements are opening new possibilities for industries like surveillance, infrastructure inspection, environmental monitoring, and entertainment. Additionally, the ongoing reduction in manufacturing costs for drone components is making drones more affordable for both commercial and consumer markets. This trend, coupled with increasing competition among manufacturers, has led to a wide variety of drones being available at different price points, catering to a larger consumer base. As drones become more affordable and accessible, they are expected to become even more widely adopted, further fueling market growth. For instance, Autel Robotics launched the EVO Max 4T drone, a sophisticated and highly innovative flying platform that is suitable for both business and consumer applications. It provides considerable navigational and self-reliance capabilities due to high-end autonomous flying technology and Artificial Intelligence. It also comes with tri-anti interference and omnidirectional obstacle avoidance capabilities that ensure flight safety and stability in high-interference environments

Increasing Adoption in Commercial Applications to Drive Market Growth

The growing demand for drones in commercial sectors, such as agriculture, logistics, construction, and real estate, is a key driving factor for the market. In agriculture, drones are utilized for precision farming, providing aerial monitoring of crops, soil conditions, and health, leading to improved yield and efficiency. The logistics industry benefits from drones for delivery purposes, especially in remote areas where traditional delivery methods are inefficient. Drones also aid in surveying and mapping construction sites, helping companies reduce time and labour costs while ensuring accuracy. As industries recognize the cost-saving and productivity-boosting capabilities of drones, the adoption rate continues to rise, further propelling market growth. Additionally, advancements in drone technology, such as enhanced battery life, improved sensors, and autonomous capabilities, have made them more practical for these applications.

Restraint Factor for the Drone Market

Regulatory Challenges will Limit Market Growth

The drone market faces significant regulatory hurdles that hinder growth. In many regions, stringent aviation regulations and restrictions on airspace usage limit the operations of drones. Government authorities often require drone operators to obtain licenses, adhere to specific flight patterns, and comply with no-fly zones. These regulations can increase operational costs and reduce the overall flexibility of drone applications. Furthermore, the lack of uniform international regulations complica...

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Consumer UAV market size will be USD 5514.6 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2205.84 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1654.3 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1268.3 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 275.7 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 110.2 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Multi Rotor Drones category is the fastest growing segment of the Consumer UAV industry

Market Dynamics of Consumer UAV Market

Key Drivers for Consumer UAV Market

Increasing Popularity of Aerial Photography and Videography to Boost Market Growth

The growing popularity of platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok has driven a surge in demand for innovative content, with drones becoming a go-to tool for capturing stunning aerial perspectives. Many consumers, particularly content creators, are leveraging drones for professional-grade photography and videography in areas like events, sports, and nature exploration. According to an annual survey conducted by Zenfolio and Format involving over 3,000 photographers, 19.3% specialize in portrait photography, 11.4% in landscape photography, and 8.7% focus on weddings, with approximately 12% working across four or more specialties. This expanding base of photographers and creators has made UAVs indispensable for producing captivating visual content.

Rising Adoption of consumer drones in Agriculture to Drive Market Growth

The increasing use of consumer drones in agriculture is significantly driving market growth. Drones provide farmers and agricultural professionals with advanced tools for precision farming and efficient land management. By the end of 2022, over 200,000 DJI agricultural drones were in operation globally, covering a cumulative area exceeding 200 million hectares and benefiting millions of agricultural practitioners. Equipped with sensors and cameras, these drones can monitor crop health, detect diseases, assess irrigation needs, and generate detailed field maps. This data-driven approach improves resource allocation, boosts yields, and minimizes environmental impact. Drones enable targeted interventions by identifying specific areas requiring attention, such as pest infestations or nutrient deficiencies. As the agriculture sector increasingly prioritizes productivity and sustainability, drones have become essential tools. Real-time aerial data empowers farmers to make informed decisions, transforming traditional farming practices into more efficient and precise systems. Consequently, the integration of drones into agriculture is revolutionizing the industry, accelerating their adoption, and driving substantial market expansion.

Restraint Factor for the Consumer UAV Market

Stringent Regulatory Frameworks and Safety and Security Concerns Will Limit Market Growth

In many regions, the legal framework surrounding UAV operation is stringent, requiring licenses, permits, and compliance with aviation laws, discouraging casual users. Many urban areas and sensitive locations (airports, military zones) are classified as no-fly zones, significantly limiting where drones can be flown. Regulations vary widely between countries and even states within countries, creating confusion for consumers who wish to operate drones internationally or across regions. In crowded airspaces, the risk of UAVs interfering with manned aircraft or other drones is a critical safety concern. The risk of hacking and unauthorized access to drones poses security issues, especially when drones are equipped with cameras or sensitive data.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Consumer UAV Market

Lockdowns and restrictions ...

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Upon thorough commercial drones market analysis and research, the following factors has been identified as the critical market trends during the forecast period 2021-2025:

New developments and launches of commercial dronesGrowing number of acquisitions and partnershipsTechnological advances in commercial drones

The commercial drones market report also provides several other key information including:

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2021-2025
Detailed information on factors that will drive commercial drones market growth during the next five years
Precise estimation of the commercial drones market size and its contribution to the parent market
Accurate predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior
The growth of the commercial drones market industry across North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA
A thorough analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors
Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of commercial drones market vendors

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Drone Sensor Market Size 2024-2028

The drone sensor market size is forecast to increase by USD 371.9 million at a CAGR of 11% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the advancement in drone technology, particularly in drone controls and high-resolution imaging. Manually controlled drones are being replaced by those equipped with inertial sensors and IMU for improved decision-making and efficiency in various industries. Autopilot mode and navigation systems enable drones to operate with minimal human intervention, increasing compliance costs for manufacturers. Safety and privacy concerns continue to be major challenges, driving the need for regulations. The market is witnessing progress in photogrammetry and thermal imaging, making drones an essential tool for hobbyists and consumer use. The integration of these sensors is transforming the drone industry, offering new opportunities for innovation and growth.

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The market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing adoption of drones in various industries, particularly in the agriculture sector. Drones are increasingly being used for inspection, mapping, and data analytics, leading to the demand for advanced sensors to enhance their capabilities. Navigation sensors play a crucial role in drone operations, enabling precise positioning and flight control. These sensors include GPS, inertial measurement units (IMUs), and compasses. Speed sensors are also essential for drones, providing real-time data on drone speed and direction. Imaging systems are another critical component of drones, used for capturing high-resolution images and videos.



These sensors include cameras, thermal imaging sensors, and LiDAR sensors. The integration of these sensors enables drones to perform tasks such as crop health monitoring, infrastructure inspection, and search and rescue operations. Safety is a major concern in the drone industry, and sensors play a vital role in ensuring safe drone operations. As drone innovation continues to shape drone market trends, advancements in drone logistics, drone software, drone battery management, and drone mapping are driving growth, while issues like drone insurance, drone licensing, and drone ethics are becoming increasingly important for ensuring safe and responsible integration into industries worldwide. Collision avoidance sensors, such as Lidar and radar, help drones detect and avoid obstacles, reducing the risk of accidents. Drone safety standards are continuously evolving, and sensors are a key area of focus for enhancing drone safety. Drone technology advancements are driving the need for more sophisticated sensors.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Inertial sensors
  Flow sensors
  Others


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China


  Europe

    Germany


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Type Insights

The inertial sensors segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Inertial sensors, comprised of gyroscopes and accelerometers, play a crucial role in drone technology by determining the drone's attitude relative to an inertial system. These sensors, also known as Inertial Measuring Units (IMUs), are essential for drone controls, particularly in high-resolution imaging applications. The accelerometer measures the motion acceleration of the drone, which is used to calculate real-time location. Meanwhile, the gyroscope provides automatic indicators, power steering, rollover protection, and vehicle dynamics control. Inertial sensors convert inertial forces into measurable electrical signals, enabling measurement of acceleration, vibration, and inclination. Key drivers for the inertial sensor market include the need for micron-sized, low-cost, high-performance, and high-precision sensors in drones.

Furthermore, adherence to regulations and compliance costs are also significant factors. In the US market, drone technology advances continue to drive the need for more efficient decision-making systems in both hobbyist and consumer drones. Navigation systems and autopilot modes are becoming increasingly important for progress tracking and ensuring safety.

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The inertial sensors segment was valued at USD 203.60 million in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 39% to the growth of the global market

The enthusiast segment of the global consumer drone market includes products like the DJI Mavic 2, and they roughly cost on average 1,600 U.S. dollars per drone in 2020. The consumer market is broken down into three segments: beginner, prosumer, and enthusiast.

Consumer Drone Aerial Vehicle Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.5% to reach US$ 16.8 billion by 2034