If you’ve ever wanted a little drone that even a kid could put together, the folks from Seeed Studios will sell you one. The ESP-FLY is exactly that — a miniature flying contraption composed of a small set of components that can be assembled in a few minutes.
The “compact, lightweight DIY micro drone kit” will set you back around R1,000 ($60), plus whatever shipping is. We’ve checked on that, but the company won’t share that information unless you create a full account on its storefront.
The power of ESP-FLY
Everything needed to turn a collection of bits into something that’ll fly is included in the package. It’s not terribly complicated, with the hardest part being operating a zip-tie correctly. Of course, you can also accessorise. Buyers can pick and choose from a variety of addons, the most expensive being a R1,680 360° laser scanner kit.
It’s also possible to buy a radio controller for the ESP-FLY from the company if you’re not keen on the companion app. But if all you want to do is fly a little plastic craft around, you just need the base package and your smartphone. Even the battery is included.
The whole setup weighs in at 25 grams, so don’t expect to use it outside without losing it immediately. The ESP-FLY also lacks flight and range details. We wouldn’t expect anything close to impressive performance on that score, either.
Still, if you ever want to make the other parents who are setting up STEM projects for their kids insanely annoyed, the ESP-FLY looks like the way to do it. Provided Junior gets enough practise before presentation time to learn how to fly, that is.
