Choosing between the Holy Stone HS720E and HS720G requires understanding their key differences. Both drones capture 4K footage and include GPS positioning for beginners. I recommend the HS720G for most aspiring aerial photographers. The 2-axis gimbal delivers dramatically smoother footage than electronic stabilization alone. Professional-looking videos justify the slight price premium. Your aerial content will look noticeably more polished with mechanical stabilization.
Why Do I Recommend The HS720G?
The HS720G’s mechanical gimbal transforms video quality significantly. Here’s why it’s the superior choice:
- 2-Axis Mechanical Gimbal: The HS720G features physical gimbal stabilization for both roll and pitch. In contrast, the HS720E relies solely on electronic image stabilization (EIS). Mechanical gimbals eliminate shake more effectively than software correction. Your footage looks professional immediately.
- Superior Video Smoothness: Gimbal stabilization maintains horizon level during aggressive maneuvers. Meanwhile, the HS720E’s EIS can’t match this mechanical precision. Wind, turns, and rapid movements remain perfectly smooth. Cinematic quality requires mechanical stabilization fundamentally.
- Better Low-Light Performance: The HS720G’s Sony CMOS sensor pairs excellently with gimbal stability. Conversely, the HS720E also has a Sony sensor but lacks gimbal support. Longer exposure times work better with mechanical stabilization. Low-light videos display less blur consistently.
- Professional Content Creation: The 2-axis gimbal enables complex shots like orbits and tracking. Although the HS720E includes these modes, execution looks amateurish. Smooth camera movements distinguish professional from amateur content. Your portfolio benefits from gimbal-stabilized footage.
- Smaller and Lighter Design: The HS720G weighs just 377 grams compared to the HS720E’s 495 grams. This 118-gram difference improves portability significantly during travel. Lighter drones fit more easily into backpacks. Spontaneous flying sessions become more convenient.
- Enhanced Wind Resistance: Mechanical gimbal maintains footage quality in breezy conditions. By comparison, the HS720E struggles more in wind. The gimbal compensates for drone movement automatically. Usable flying days increase throughout the year.
- Better Resale Value: Gimbal-equipped drones retain higher market value long-term. On the other hand, EIS-only drones depreciate faster. Mechanical features age better than software solutions. Your investment protects future upgrade budgets.
- More Impressive Results: First-time viewers immediately notice gimbal-stabilized smoothness. In contrast, EIS footage still shows subtle shakiness. Impressive results motivate continued creative exploration. Better output quality enhances overall flying enjoyment.
Side By Side Comparison Chart: HS720E vs HS720G
| Feature | HS720E | HS720G |
| Stabilization | EIS (Electronic) only | 2-Axis Gimbal + EIS |
| Weight | 495g | 377g |
| Flight Time | 23 min per battery (46 min total) | 26 min per battery (52 min total) |
| Camera | 4K Sony CMOS with EIS | 4K Sony CMOS with Gimbal + EIS |
| Field of View | 130° | 120° |
| Video Resolution | 4K/30fps, 1080p/60fps | 4K/30fps |
| GPS Positioning | Yes (GPS + GLONASS) | Yes (GPS + GLONASS) |
| Optical Flow | Yes | Yes |
| Brushless Motors | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission Range | Up to 1,640 feet (500m) | Up to 3,280 feet (1,000m) |
| Transmission | 5GHz WiFi | 5GHz WiFi |
| Follow Me Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Waypoint Flight | Yes | Yes |
| Point of Interest | Yes | Yes |
| Tap Fly | Yes | Yes |
| Return to Home | Yes | Yes |
| Wind Velocity Indicator | Yes | No |
| Headless Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Carrying Case | Included | Included |
| Batteries Included | 2 | 2 |
| Price Range | $170-$200 | $250-$300 |
Features: HS720E
The HS720E combines solid specifications with affordable pricing:
4K EIS Camera System: Advanced Sony CMOS sensor captures 3840 x 2160 resolution footage. Electronic Image Stabilization reduces blur during flight significantly. 130-degree field of view captures expansive landscapes beautifully.
Dual Battery Configuration: Two intelligent batteries provide 46 minutes total flight time. Each battery delivers 23 minutes of consistent performance. Extended airtime enables complex shooting sessions without interruption.
GPS + GLONASS Positioning: Dual satellite systems ensure precise hovering accuracy. GPS works reliably in open outdoor environments. GLONASS supplements GPS for faster satellite acquisition.
Optical Flow Positioning: Downward sensors enable stable indoor hovering without GPS. Works effectively at heights below 5 meters. Indoor photography becomes accessible and safe.
Brushless Motor Technology: Powerful motors provide stable flight in moderate winds. Quieter operation reduces noise pollution significantly. Low wear extends motor lifespan considerably.
Wind Velocity Indicator: On-screen display shows real-time wind speed data. Altitude, battery, and speed information displays clearly. Make informed decisions about flying conditions safely.
5GHz FPV Transmission: Real-time video streams to smartphone via 5GHz WiFi. 1,640-foot transmission range supports recreational flying distances. Dual-frequency reduces interference from other WiFi networks.
Intelligent Flight Modes: Follow Me tracks your movements automatically during activities. Waypoint Flight executes pre-programmed routes precisely. Point of Interest circles stationary subjects smoothly.
Features: HS720G
The HS720G elevates performance with mechanical stabilization:
2-Axis Gimbal Stabilization: Mechanical gimbal physically stabilizes roll and pitch axes. Combined with EIS for ultimate smoothness and stability. Horizon remains perfectly level during aggressive maneuvers.
4K Sony CMOS Camera: Professional-grade sensor captures vibrant, detailed 4K footage. 120-degree field of view balances wide coverage with distortion. Color accuracy remains consistent across lighting conditions.
Extended Flight Performance: Each battery provides 26 minutes of flight time. Total 52 minutes with two included batteries. Three extra minutes per battery accumulates significantly.
Lightweight Portability: Weighs just 377 grams for easy transport anywhere. Foldable design collapses into compact carrying case. Lighter weight improves wind resistance paradoxically.
Triple Positioning System: GPS, GLONASS, and Optical Flow work together. Three systems ensure maximum positioning accuracy everywhere. Indoor and outdoor flying remains consistently stable.
Enhanced Transmission Range: 3,280-foot range doubles the HS720E’s capability. Explore larger areas without losing video feed. Extended range enables ambitious aerial surveys.
Brushless Motor System: Efficient motors maximize flight time per charge. Quiet operation maintains peaceful flying experiences. Durable construction withstands regular use reliably.
Comprehensive Flight Modes: Advanced Follow Me maintains subject tracking accuracy. Waypoint navigation supports complex automated routes. Tap Fly simplifies destination-based navigation intuitively.
What Common Features Can HS720E vs HS720G Drones Do?
Both drones share fundamental capabilities that define budget aerial photography.
4K Video Recording
Both capture stunning 4K Ultra HD footage at 30fps. High resolution preserves fine details in aerial landscapes. Sony CMOS sensors ensure superior color accuracy and dynamic range. Footage looks sharp on modern 4K displays. Export directly to social media platforms easily. Both drones satisfy content creation requirements admirably. Video quality rivals drones costing significantly more.
GPS-Assisted Flight
Dual-satellite positioning using GPS and GLONASS systems. Precise hovering within centimeters of target position. Automatic Return to Home activates during signal loss. Low battery triggers automatic return flight safely. GPS enables intelligent flight modes reliably. Both drones maintain stable position in open areas. Satellite positioning simplifies flight for beginners dramatically.
Optical Flow Positioning
Downward-facing sensors map ground surfaces for indoor hovering. Works effectively at heights below 5 meters indoors. No GPS required for stable indoor flight. Capture footage inside buildings and covered areas. Position holding remains accurate on textured surfaces. Both drones transition seamlessly between GPS and optical flow. Indoor photography becomes accessible without satellites.
Intelligent Flight Modes
Follow Me mode tracks your movements automatically during activities. Point of Interest circles around stationary subjects smoothly. Waypoint Flight executes pre-programmed routes with precision. Tap Fly simplifies navigation by tapping destinations on-screen. Automated modes simplify complex cinematography dramatically. Both drones lower the skill barrier significantly. Professional-looking results require minimal piloting expertise.
Brushless Motor Technology
Powerful brushless motors provide exceptional efficiency and durability. Quieter operation compared to brushed motor alternatives. Longer lifespan reduces maintenance requirements substantially. Better power efficiency extends flight time noticeably. Both drones handle moderate wind conditions confidently. Motor performance satisfies recreational and semi-professional needs. Reliable motors encourage regular flying sessions.
Foldable Design with Case
Arms fold flat against body for compact storage. Both drones fit easily into backpacks or luggage. Included carrying cases protect during transport reliably. Quick deployment gets you flying within minutes. No tools required for setup or breakdown. Portability encourages spontaneous aerial photography sessions. Travel-friendly design suits adventure photographers perfectly.
Smart Safety Features
Automatic takeoff and landing simplify operation for beginners. Low battery warnings trigger automatic return flights. Signal loss activates Return to Home immediately. Altitude limits prevent accidentally flying too high. Headless mode simplifies directional control significantly. Multiple safety layers protect equipment and people. Both drones prioritize user safety consistently.
Common Features of HS720E vs HS720G
| Feature | HS720E | HS720G |
| 4K Video | Yes (30fps) | Yes (30fps) |
| Sony CMOS Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| GPS Positioning | Yes | Yes |
| GLONASS Positioning | Yes | Yes |
| Optical Flow | Yes | Yes |
| Brushless Motors | Yes | Yes |
| 5GHz WiFi FPV | Yes | Yes |
| Follow Me Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Waypoint Flight | Yes | Yes |
| Point of Interest | Yes | Yes |
| Tap Fly | Yes | Yes |
| Return to Home | Yes | Yes |
| Low Battery Return | Yes | Yes |
| Headless Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Foldable Design | Yes | Yes |
| Carrying Case | Included | Included |
| Batteries Included | 2 | 2 |
| Remote Control LCD | Yes | Yes |
A Detailed Comparison Of the HS720E vs HS720G
Image Stabilization Technology
The HS720E relies exclusively on Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS). Software algorithms crop and shift footage digitally to reduce shake. EIS works reasonably well in calm conditions and gentle movements. However, aggressive maneuvers reveal limitations of software correction. Quality decreases slightly due to digital cropping. Footage remains acceptable for casual social media sharing.
The HS720G features a 2-axis mechanical gimbal plus EIS. Physical motors counteract drone movement in real-time mechanically. Roll and pitch axes remain perfectly level during flight. The gimbal eliminates shake before recording even starts. No digital cropping means full resolution footage always. Professional cinematographers prefer mechanical stabilization universally.
Weight and Portability
The HS720E weighs 495 grams including battery and camera. Heavier weight requires FAA registration in the United States. Additional mass slightly reduces flight efficiency and wind resistance. The weight difference affects backpack load during hiking trips. However, solid construction feels robust and durable. Most users don’t find the weight problematic.
The HS720G weighs just 377 grams fully assembled. Lighter construction improves portability significantly during travel adventures. Reduced weight paradoxically enhances stability in certain conditions. FAA registration still required but feels less cumbersome. Backpackers appreciate the 118-gram weight savings consistently. Compact size encourages bringing it on more outings.
Flight Time Performance
The HS720E provides 23 minutes per battery charge. Two included batteries total 46 minutes of flight time. Realistic flying typically yields 18-20 minutes per battery. More powerful motors consume battery faster for EIS processing. Flight time satisfies most recreational photography sessions adequately. Extra batteries available for extended shooting days.
The HS720G delivers 26 minutes per battery charge. Total 52 minutes available with both included batteries. Three extra minutes per battery accumulates to six minutes total. More efficient motor design maximizes energy utilization effectively. Real-world flights consistently approach advertised duration. Extended flight time reduces battery swapping frequency noticeably.
Transmission Range
The HS720E transmits video up to 1,640 feet distance. 5GHz WiFi provides stable connection in most environments. Real-world range typically reaches 800-1,000 feet before signal weakens. Urban interference reduces maximum range compared to rural areas. Video feed quality remains consistent throughout operational range. Range satisfies typical recreational flying requirements completely.
The HS720G extends range to impressive 3,280 feet maximum. Doubled transmission distance enables more ambitious aerial exploration. Real-world performance typically achieves 1,500-2,000 feet reliably. Enhanced antenna design improves signal strength throughout range. Professional applications benefit from extended connectivity significantly. Greater range provides creative freedom for landscape photography.
Camera Field of View
The HS720E captures footage with 130-degree field of view. Wide-angle perspective captures expansive landscapes in single frames. Slight barrel distortion appears at frame edges occasionally. FOV suits aerial photography’s expansive nature perfectly. Most users appreciate the broad perspective consistently. Wide coverage reduces need for panoramic stitching.
The HS720G uses a 120-degree field of view camera. Slightly narrower perspective reduces edge distortion noticeably. More natural-looking proportions suit certain cinematography styles. Ten-degree difference matters less than most beginners expect. Both FOVs work excellently for aerial photography. Personal preference determines which angle suits you better.
On-Screen Display Features
The HS720E includes comprehensive wind velocity indicator system. Real-time wind speed displays help make informed flying decisions. Screen shows altitude, battery level, and flight speed clearly. Wind data proves especially valuable for beginners learning limitations. Extra information improves safety during outdoor flights significantly. Detailed telemetry builds confidence in challenging conditions.
The HS720G displays standard telemetry without wind velocity indicator. Battery, altitude, and speed information remains clearly visible. Simplified display reduces on-screen clutter somewhat. Experienced pilots rarely need wind speed data constantly. Essential information displays adequately for safe operation. Most users don’t miss the wind indicator.
Build Quality and Materials
The HS720E features robust construction with quality materials. Heavier frame provides reassuring solidity during handling. Joints and hinges feel durable through repeated folding. Propellers withstand minor impacts reasonably well. Overall build quality exceeds typical budget drone standards. Most users report excellent durability over time.
The HS720G balances lightweight design with adequate strength. Advanced materials reduce weight without compromising durability significantly. Gimbal assembly adds mechanical complexity but remains reliable. Foldable arms operate smoothly through hundreds of cycles. Build quality matches or exceeds the HS720E consistently. Lighter weight doesn’t mean fragile construction.
Price and Value Proposition
The HS720E costs approximately $170-$200 typically. Budget-friendly pricing makes 4K aerial photography accessible widely. Excellent value for beginners exploring drone photography initially. Two batteries and case included at base price. Most affordable entry point into Holy Stone’s 720 series. Price-conscious buyers find incredible value here.
The HS720G ranges from $250-$300 depending on sales. Mechanical gimbal justifies the $50-$100 price premium clearly. Professional-looking footage worth extra investment for serious creators. All essential accessories included at standard pricing. Mid-range pricing positions it between budget and premium options. Value remains excellent considering gimbal technology included.
Motor Power and Efficiency
The HS720E uses brushless motors optimized for power and stability. Motors work harder to maintain stability with EIS processing. Slightly higher power consumption reduces flight time marginally. Motor noise remains acceptable during normal operation. Reliability proves excellent through regular use consistently. Motor performance satisfies recreational flying requirements completely.
The HS720G features optimized brushless motors for efficiency and duration. Motors work synergistically with gimbal for smooth flight. Better power management extends flight time by three minutes. Quieter operation compared to the HS720E noticeably. Enhanced motor tuning benefits from gimbal stabilization integration. Overall motor performance exceeds the HS720E measurably.
Video Quality Comparison
The HS720E produces good quality 4K footage in optimal conditions. EIS reduces shake adequately for social media content. Some residual micro-jitters remain visible upon close inspection. Footage quality drops noticeably in windy conditions. Digital cropping slightly reduces effective resolution. Overall quality satisfies casual content creators adequately.
The HS720G delivers noticeably smoother professional-looking footage consistently. Mechanical gimbal eliminates shake before digital processing. Footage remains perfectly smooth even during aggressive maneuvers. Wind barely affects video stability thanks to gimbal. Full 4K resolution maintained without digital cropping. Professional applications demand this superior video quality.
Conclusion
The Holy Stone HS720G represents the smarter investment for serious drone enthusiasts. The 2-axis mechanical gimbal delivers dramatically smoother footage than EIS alone. Extended 26-minute flight time and 3,280-foot range expand creative possibilities significantly. At $250-$300, the gimbal technology justifies the premium over the HS720E’s $170-$200 pricing. Choose the HS720G for professional-looking aerial content that impresses viewers and elevates your portfolio immediately.
FAQs
Q: Is the gimbal worth the extra $50-$100 cost difference?
A: Absolutely, for anyone serious about video quality. The 2-axis gimbal eliminates shake mechanically rather than digitally. Footage looks noticeably more professional and cinematic immediately. EIS alone can’t match mechanical stabilization’s smoothness. The investment pays off in superior content quality.
Q: Which drone is better for complete beginners?
A: The HS720E offers easier entry at lower cost. Beginners learning basics don’t need gimbal technology initially. However, the HS720G’s superior stabilization helps beginners achieve better results faster. Consider whether you’ll upgrade soon or prefer growing into advanced features.
Q: Can both drones fly indoors?
A: Yes, both feature optical flow positioning for indoor flight. GPS-free hovering works reliably below 5 meters height. Indoor flying requires adequate space and caution. Both drones transition seamlessly between outdoor GPS and indoor optical flow. Practice outdoors before attempting indoor flights.
Q: How much better is the HS720G’s video quality?
A: Significantly better, especially in wind or during movement. The mechanical gimbal maintains perfect horizon level constantly. EIS-only footage shows subtle shakiness that gimbal eliminates. Side-by-side comparison reveals dramatic smoothness differences. Professional creators immediately notice the quality improvement.
Q: Does the lighter HS720G feel less stable?
A: No, lighter weight actually improves certain flight characteristics. The mechanical gimbal compensates for drone movement regardless. Both drones handle similar wind conditions confidently. Weight difference doesn’t affect flight stability noticeably. Users consistently praise the HS720G’s solid flight performance.
Q: Which drone has longer real-world flight time?
A: The HS720G provides three more minutes per battery. Real-world flights typically achieve 20-22 minutes on HS720G versus 18-20 minutes on HS720E. Six extra minutes total with both batteries included. Longer flight time reduces battery swapping frequency. Extended duration benefits complex shooting scenarios.
Q: Are the batteries interchangeable between models?
A: No, each drone requires its specific battery model. Different power requirements mean incompatible battery designs. Always use manufacturer-approved batteries for safety. Purchase extra batteries specific to your chosen model. Battery compatibility between HS720 series models varies.
Q: Which drone better suits travel photography?
A: The HS720G’s lighter weight and better stabilization suit travel better. Professional-looking footage from vacation destinations justifies premium pricing. Compact size fits easily into travel backpacks. Extended range enables exploring larger areas efficiently. Travel photographers benefit from superior video quality consistently.

Alex Turner is a dedicated product researcher and reviewer at TopBuyGuide.com, known for his clear, honest, and data-driven insights. He spends countless hours testing, comparing, and analyzing products to help readers make confident and informed buying decisions.