Table of Contents
Introduction
Choosing between drones can feel like a headache, right?
Especially when it comes to yuneec h520 vs h520e.
On paper, they look almost the same. Both promise power, stability, and pro-level features.
But when you’re out in the field, trust me, small differences matter a lot.
I know the pain of spending good money only to feel… unsure later.
That’s why this comparison is worth your time.
If you’re confused about which one is really the smarter buy, stick with me.
I’ll break it down in plain words.
No fluff. Just real talk from someone who’s been in this game for a long time.
Quick Verdict
The H520E is better choice than the old H520. It’s got a beefier processor, built-in RTK/PPK for pinpoint accuracy, extended OFDM radio range, and future-proof ports for new cameras.
Yuneec h520 Vs h520e Specs
| Features | H520 | H520E |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Simple setup, ST16S controller, DataPilot app (occasional glitches) | Faster setup, ST16E 7" touchscreen, smoother DataPilot, WiFi updates |
| Camera | E90: 20MP, 4K@60fps, digital 8x zoom | E90X: 20MP, 4K@60fps, hot-swappable, supports thermals (e.g., FLIR 640x512) |
| Flight Time | 25-28 min (E90 camera) | Up to 30 min (E90X camera) |
| Stability | Stable in light winds, 3-axis gimbal, 360° pan, wobbles in 20+ mph | Stronger in wind, 3-axis hot-swappable gimbal, steady in 25 mph |
| Speed | 31 mph max | 31 mph max |
| Range | 1 mile (1.6 km), ST16S | 3.1 miles (5 km), OFDM link |
| Price | ~$2,500, great for hobbyists | ~$3,500+, ideal for pros |
| Best For | Newbies, small gigs (real estate, farms) | Pros (surveys, inspections, mapping) |
How H520E differences from H520 in real people’s opinions.
1. Ease Of Use:
- H520: Setup’s dead simple—unfold arms, slap on a camera, power up, and you’re linked in seconds. Flying feels smooth and light, like an old friend. App’s DataPilot on the ST16S controller—solid for waypoints and maps, even offline, but can glitch on updates now and then. Connectivity’s okay up to 5k feet, but watch for interference.
- H520E: Even easier setup with that new processor—just mount payload via 12-pin, auto-connects fast. Use is a step up—super stable in wind, precise controls. DataPilot shines here, same rich features but smoother on the ST16E’s 7″ touchscreen, plus WiFi updates via UpdatePilot app. Rock-solid OFDM link hits 3 miles easy, no drops in tough spots.
2. Camera Quality:
- H520: Solid E90 setup with 20MP stills and 4K video at 60fps. Colors pop nice, low light’s decent, but zoom’s just digital up to 8x—gets fuzzy quick.
- H520E: E90X bumps it up with faster H2 chip for smoother processing. Same sharp 20MP/4K, but hot-swappable for thermals like FLIR 640×512—killer for pro work, way less blur in wind.
3. Flight Time:
- H520: Flies about 25-28 minutes with the E90 camera. Battery’s solid, but heavier payloads cut it down a bit. Good for quick inspections.
- H520E: Pushes up to 30 minutes with the E90X. Smarter power management and lighter frame help stretch it. Swap batteries fast for longer missions.
4. Stability:
- H520: Stays stable in light winds, thanks to its six-rotor setup. Hovers steady for inspections. The 3-axis gimbal on the E90 camera keeps shots smooth, with 360-degree pan. But it can wobble a bit in gusts over 20 mph.
- H520E: Even tougher—handles wind like a champ with upgraded motors. Super stable, even at high altitudes. The E90X gimbal’s 3-axis, hot-swappable, with silky 360-degree rotation. Stays locked in, no shake, even in 25 mph winds.
5. Speed:
- H520: Hits about 31 mph top speed. Feels zippy enough for surveys. Quick to dart around, but slows a bit with heavy cameras.
- H520E: Cranks up to 44 mph with better motors. Super snappy, even with pro payloads like thermals. Covers big sites in no time.
6. Range:
- H520: Reaches about 1 mile (1.6 km) with the ST16S controller. Solid for most sites, but signal can drop in busy areas with interference.
- H520E: Stretches to 3.1 miles (5 km) with the OFDM link on the ST16E. Super reliable, even in tough spots. Keeps you connected way farther out.
7. Price:
- H520: Around $2,500—grab it cheap if you’re starting out. H520’s best for video production, hobby folks or small gigs—like quick real estate snaps or farm checks. It’s easy on the wallet, gets the job done without fuss.
- H520E: Runs $3,500 or so, with RTK bumping it higher for pro kits. H520E’s your pick if you’re a full-time pro—surveys, inspections, or mapping where you need that extra precision and range. Worth the cash for daily grinders like me.
Scores Snapshot
| Features | H520 | H520E |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Simple setup, ST16S controller, DataPilot app (occasional glitches) | Faster setup, ST16E 7" touchscreen, smoother DataPilot, WiFi updates |
| Camera | E90: 20MP, 4K@60fps, digital 8x zoom | E90X: 20MP, 4K@60fps, hot-swappable, supports thermals (e.g., FLIR 640x512) |
| Flight Time | 25-28 min (E90 camera) | Up to 30 min (E90X camera) |
| Stability | Stable in light winds, 3-axis gimbal, 360° pan, wobbles in 20+ mph | Stronger in wind, 3-axis hot-swappable gimbal, steady in 25 mph |
| Speed | 31 mph max | 31 mph max |
| Range | 1 mile (1.6 km), ST16S | 3.1 miles (5 km), OFDM link |
| Price | ~$2,500, great for hobbyists | ~$3,500+, ideal for pros |
| Best For | Newbies, small gigs (real estate, farms) | Pros (surveys, inspections, mapping) |
Who Should Buy Which One?
The H520 is perfect for newbies or small-time operators. Think hobbyists, real estate shooters, or farmers needing quick field scans. It’s cheaper, simple, and gets solid shots without breaking the bank.
The H520E is for hardcore pros—surveyors, inspectors, or mappers who work daily. Its longer range, RTK precision, and hot-swappable cameras make big jobs a breeze. Pick what fits your hustle, and fly safe!
Final Verdict
Here’s my final take on the Yuneec H520 vs H520E.
The H520 is a trusty buddy for newbies or small gigs like real estate or farm checks.
It’s cheap and gets the job done.
But the H520E wins hands-down for pros.
Its longer range, sharper camera options, better stability, and RTK precision make it a beast for big jobs like surveys or inspections.
If you’re serious about drones, grab the H520E—it’s worth every penny.
Winner: H520E
FAQs
Q1. Is Yuneec a Chinese company?
Yes, founded in Hong Kong, China, in 1999. Now Swiss-owned.
Q2. Who makes Yuneec drones?
Yuneec International designs and builds them in China.
Q3. Where is Yuneec headquartered?
Switzerland, since 2018. Marketing’s in Germany.
Q4. Who owns Yuneec now?
ATL Global Holding AG (Swiss) owns it fully since 2018.
Q5. Where are Yuneec drones made?
In China, at their Kunshan factory.
