While it didn’t affect all of the current and past purchased drones, the DJI drone ban is now in effect, and there are no new DJI drones being sold in the United States due to an FCC ban. As you can imagine, that leaves a pretty large market gap that is waiting to be filled.

One of the many challengers to likely emerge has entered the chat.

Ruko has introduced its U11MINI 4K, a pocket aerial drone that features 4K video at up to 30p, 8K still image capture, a 48MP sensor, and a 3-axis gimbal. The pocket drone also features an integrated touchscreen controller, so you don’t have to use your smartphone to operate it.

Let’s take a look at the Ruko U11MINI 4K and see if it can fill the big opening left by DJI in the US.


The Ruko U11MINI 4K

Announced as “your first pocket aerial drone” in the company’s intro video, the Ruko U11MINI 4K could be a nice first drone option, or at least the first drone option that you might purchase from this company. Similar to DJI pocket drones like the Neo, perhaps, the Ruko U11MINI 4K has a lot of features worth exploring.

Weighing under 249g, the FAA-exempt U11MINI 4K pocket drone will be able to capture 4K aerial footage powered by its 1/2-inch CMOS sensor and 48MP resolution. The professional-grade camera drone can also capture 8K UHD photos and 4K/30fps videos for a wide range of aerial photography and videography needs.

The drone is equipped with a 3-axis brushless gimbal and EIS stabilization system that should help keep your footage smooth. It will also have a helpful auto-cruise control that should further ensure steady footage, even during extended flights.

The Ruko U11MINI 4K will feature its own R2 digital transmission system that will grant up to 20k ft of range without relying on Wi-Fi, a nice perk for a drone that will be capable of offering 64 minutes of flight time.

Price and Availability

Ruko U11MINI 4K

Credit: Ruko

We’ll have more to explore about this Ruko U11MINI 4K once more info and reviews begin to emerge, but for now, it’s a nice sign that there will be more options in a market that had suddenly lost such a major player.

The Ruko U11MINI 4K is available on the company’s website, where it is currently listed as on sale for $389.99.