Chasing Dory - Best Value Underwater Drone

The Chasing Dory earns its position as the best value underwater drone by offering core functionality at a fraction of the cost of premium models. As essentially a smaller, more affordable version of the Gladius Mini, it retains the same striking yellow color and five-thruster design that enables good maneuverability and camera tilting capability. The depth lock feature from its bigger brother is also present, providing stable positioning at desired depths. To achieve its lower price point, some compromises were made: the camera resolution is 1080p rather than 4K, supported by only 250 lumens of lighting that may prove insufficient at greater depths or in murky conditions. The tether is significantly shorter at 15m (50ft), though this is offset by the innovative Wi-Fi buoy system that allows wireless operation within range.

Control is handled entirely through the smartphone app rather than a dedicated controller, which may be less precise but keeps costs down. The battery is contained within the drone itself, simplifying charging requirements. Despite these limitations, the Dory performs admirably for its price class, offering a genuine underwater exploration experience that would satisfy most casual users. The app supports live streaming to social media, adding fun functionality for sharing underwater discoveries. For those wanting to enter the world of underwater drones without significant investment, the Dory represents an excellent starting point that still delivers on core functionality.