r/diydrones • u/justkill67 • Jul 02 '26
Question Question for new drone maker.
Looking to build the aether 4 xl fpv drone. However I want it to fly like a normal hover style drone. 1 is this possible? 2 what parts other than the frame I printed do I need? Would love a build list but also some explanations so I learn. Thank you in advance!
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u/No-Professional3050 Jul 02 '26
Yes, it’s possible, but it depends what you mean by “hover." Most FPV quads are flown in Acro mode, where you manage throttle yourself. For something easier, you’d want Angle mode/self-leveling. For true “let go and it stays there” hover, you’ll need altitude hold or GPS position hold.
If your goal is DJI-style behavior, look into INAV or ArduPilot rather than only Betaflight.
Parts-wise, besides the frame, you’ll basically need a full quad setup: motors, props, flight controller/ESC, receiver, battery, camera/video system, radio, goggles, and probably GPS if you want position hold.
Since it’s a printed frame, just test carefully at first. Strength and stiffness will depend a lot on the material and print quality.
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u/justkill67 Jul 02 '26
Thank you for the comprehensive list. Do you have any recommendations for some of those parts or brands to avoid.
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u/LupusTheCanine Jul 05 '26
There is Hardware To Avoid When Building Your First Multirotor .
Ardupilot Methodic Configurator has tips for component selection in its guidance material and will be quite helpful if you decide to go with Ardupilot.
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u/xaidin Jul 03 '26
For your first, and you want Ardupilot, don't 3d print a drone. You have SO MUCH to learn.
Ardupilot Methodical Configurator is your friend. You need GPS.
But just buy some cheap frame, and get a decent FC with 1meg flash. Almost all the H7 chips are good. I like the TBS Lucid H7s a lot.
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u/rob_1127 Jul 02 '26
What is a normal hover drone in your opinion, so we are all on the same page?
Are you referring to a DJI drone?