Chasing Innovation Gladius Mini - Best Overall Underwater Drone
The Chasing Innovation Gladius Mini combines smart features, responsive operation, and excellent 4K footage, making it the top choice for most underwater exploration needs.
- +5-thruster design for exceptional maneuverability
- +4K camera with 1200-lumen lights for clear underwater footage
- +Depth-lock feature for stable positioning
- -Camera cannot be separately turned from the body
- -Image stabilization could be better in rough seas
- -Protective caps for tether cable are easily lost
The Chasing Innovation Gladius Mini stands out as the premier underwater drone for 2025, offering a perfect balance of performance and features. Its five-thruster design provides exceptional maneuverability underwater, allowing precise control even in challenging conditions. The 4K camera delivers stunning footage, supported by powerful 1200-lumen lights that illuminate the underwater environment effectively. The depth-lock feature functions similarly to altitude hold in aerial drones, maintaining stable positioning at desired depths. The drone comes in a professional backpack with included accessories, making transportation and setup convenient. While the camera offers excellent resolution, it cannot be turned separately from the drone body, requiring the entire unit to tilt for different viewing angles.
In rough sea conditions, the image stabilization could be improved. The protective caps for the tether cable are noted as being easily lost, though this is a minor concern compared to the overall robust build quality. The bright yellow color ensures high visibility underwater, and the 64GB internal storage provides ample space for recordings. The accompanying app is well-designed and supports VR compatibility, enhancing the underwater exploration experience. For those seeking a reliable, feature-packed underwater drone, the Gladius Mini represents the current gold standard in the category.