Table of Contents
Introduction
Choosing the right drone can feel like a headache.
You spend hours comparing specs, watching videos, and still end up confused.
That’s exactly the case with yuneec typhoon h vs h520.
On paper, they look almost the same.
Both hexacopters. Both solid builds.
But when you’re the one flying them, trust me, the differences matter a lot.
I’ve seen where each shines and where each struggles.
If you’ve been wondering which one is right for you, stick around.
I’ll break it down in simple words so you can finally make the call without second-guessing.
Also check similar comparisons:
Quick Verdict
The H520 is a better choice for commercial purpose flying because it’s tougher, more reliable, and built for pro tasks cameras and wind resistance. The Typhoon H is older, less stable, and only good for casual use.
Yuneec Typhoon H Vs H520 Specs
| Features | Typhoon H | H520 |
|---|---|---|
| Ease Of Use | Quick (under 10 min), simple controls, built-in screen on ST16 | Slightly longer (15-20 min), stable flight, WiFi app for feed |
| Camera Quality | 12MP 4K@30fps, 360° gimbal | Swappable (e.g., 20MP 4K@60fps), 3-axis gimbal |
| Flight Time | 22-25 min, 5400mAh LiPo | 25-28 min, 5250mAh LiPo |
| Stability | Good in light wind, 3-axis 360° gimbal | Rock-solid in wind, 3-axis gimbal |
| Speed | Up to 43 mph (70 km/h) | Up to 45 mph (72 km/h) |
| Range | 1 mile (1.6 km) | 1.2 miles (2 km) |
| Price | $300-$800 (used, discontinued) | $1,500-$2,500 (used/new) |
| Best For | Hobbyists, casual fun | Pros, inspections/mapping |
1. Ease Of Use:
- Typhoon H: Setup is a breeze – just slide in the battery, attach props, and you’re good in under 10 minutes. Flying it feels smooth and simple, even if you’re new to this drone life. No phone needed; the big ST16 controller has a screen that connects right away, super reliable for quick fun flights. But, that old app for updates? It’s clunky sometimes – stick to the basics and you’ll love it.
- H520: Setup takes a bit longer – calibrate compass, swap cameras if you want – maybe 15-20 minutes to get it mission-ready. Once up, it’s dead easy to fly, stable as heck in wind, and the controls feel just right. App side, the ST16 links solid via WiFi for live feed, but grab UpdatePilot for firmware tweaks; it’s straightforward, though you need decent internet. Solid for work, no headaches.
2. Camera Quality:
- Typhoon H: The Typhoon H has a solid 4K camera that’s great for hobby shots. It’s a 12MP sensor, good for sharp photos and smooth 4K video at 30fps. The unique 360-degree gimbal spins all the way around, so you get cool panoramic shots without moving the drone. Colors pop nicely, but low-light shots can look grainy.
- H520: The H520 steps it up with swappable cameras for pro work – like the E90 (20MP, 4K at 60fps) or E50 (12MP, 4K at 30fps). Video is crisp, and photos are super detailed, even in tougher light. The 3-axis gimbal keeps shots steady, and you can tweak settings for inspections or mapping. It’s built for serious jobs, not just playtime.
3. Flight Time:
- Typhoon H: The Typhoon H flies for about 22-25 minutes (each battery), which is decent for fun flights. It uses one 5400mAh LiPo (lithium polymer) battery. Pop it in, and you’re good to go. Battery swaps are easy, but grab a spare for longer sessions.
- H520: The H520 gets around 25-28 minutes of flight time, great for pro tasks. It also uses one 5250mAh LiPo battery. Charges fast, and the drone sips power smartly. Keep an extra battery handy for big jobs.
4. Stability:
- Typhoon H: The Typhoon H is pretty stable in light winds, thanks to its six rotors. Its 3-axis gimbal rotates 360 degrees, keeping 4K shots smooth and letting you pan without moving the drone. Wobbles a bit in stronger gusts, though.
- H520: The H520 is rock-solid, even in windy conditions, with its tough hexacopter design. The 3-axis gimbal (swappable cameras) locks in steady, pro-grade shots. No 360-degree spin, but it’s built for reliable, shake-free footage on serious jobs.
5. Speed:
- Typhoon H: The Typhoon H hits about 43 mph (70 km/h) in sport mode, which feels fast for fun flights. It’s quick to zip around but still easy to control. Not a racer, but plenty peppy for casual use.
- H520: The H520 tops out at around 45 mph (72 km/h), slightly faster than the H. It’s built for steady pro missions, not speed thrills, so it feels smooth and controlled. Great for covering ground on work like mapping.
6. Range:
- Typhoon H: Its range is about 1 mile (1.6 km), which is solid for chasing cool shots around a park or open field. The ST16 controller’s signal stays strong, even with some trees around. Push it too far, though, and the video feed can get choppy. Keep it in sight, and you’re golden for fun flights.
- H520: The H520 is my workhorse for big jobs. It reaches about 1.2 miles (2 km), a bit more than the H. The signal holds up great, even in tricky spots like construction sites. You can trust it for pro tasks like mapping or inspections. Just don’t expect to push it to crazy distances without a perfect line of sight.
7. Price:
- Typhoon H: After all these years chasing deals on old-school drones, the Typhoon H is a steal now. It’s discontinued, so new stock is gone – you’re hunting used ones on eBay for $300 to $800, depending on condition and extras like batteries. Back in the day, it retailed for $1,300-$1,800, but today? Super cheap for hobby fun. Just watch for worn parts.
- H520: The H520 still holds strong for pro work. Base model runs about $2,500 new from spots like Yuneec’s site or drone shops. Used ones? Around $1,500 to $2,000 on forums or eBay, especially bundles with cameras. Solid value if you’re in inspections – no big drops yet.
Scores Snapshot
| Features | Typhoon H | H520 |
|---|---|---|
| Ease Of Use | Quick (under 10 min), simple controls, built-in screen on ST16 | Slightly longer (15-20 min), stable flight, WiFi app for feed |
| Camera Quality | 12MP 4K@30fps, 360° gimbal | Swappable (e.g., 20MP 4K@60fps), 3-axis gimbal |
| Flight Time | 22-25 min, 5400mAh LiPo | 25-28 min, 5250mAh LiPo |
| Stability | Good in light wind, 3-axis 360° gimbal | Rock-solid in wind, 3-axis gimbal |
| Speed | Up to 43 mph (70 km/h) | Up to 45 mph (72 km/h) |
| Range | 1 mile (1.6 km) | 1.2 miles (2 km) |
| Price | $300-$800 (used, discontinued) | $1,500-$2,500 (used/new) |
| Best For | Hobbyists, casual fun | Pros, inspections/mapping |
Who Should Buy Which One?
Typhoon H: This one is the best drone for a hobbyist who loves flying drones for fun. It’s great for cool photos or videos at a low price. Perfect for beginners or casual flyers who don’t need pro features.
H520: Buy this if you’re a pro doing work like inspections, mapping, or filming. It’s tougher, has better cameras, and flies steady for serious jobs. Best for people who need reliable, high-quality results.
Final Verdict
In the yuneec typhoon h vs h520 showdown, the H520 is the clear winner.
It’s tougher, has better cameras, longer range, and flies steadier for pro jobs like mapping or inspections.
The Typhoon H is fun and cheap for hobbyists, but it’s outdated and less reliable.
If you need a drone for serious work, grab the H520.
FAQs
Q1. What is the payload capacity of the Yuneec Typhoon H?
Around 1-1.5 kg (2-3 lbs) max, based on user tests for light loads like fishing gear. It’s not built for heavy lifting, so keep it under 1 kg for safe flights.
Q2. Is the Typhoon H a good drone?
Yes, for hobbyists—great 4K video and easy fun, but it’s outdated with build issues and flyaway risks. Not the best for pros anymore.
Q3. What is the range of the Typhoon H drone?
Up to 1 mile (1.6 km) for control and video in clear conditions. Real-world is less with obstacles.
Q4. Is Yuneec a Chinese company?
Yes, founded in Hong Kong, China in 1999, with manufacturing there, though owned by a Swiss firm and R&D in Europe.
Q5. What is the payload capacity of the Yuneec H520?
Up to 0.8-1 kg (1.8 lbs), perfect for swappable cameras or tools in pro jobs like inspections.
