Best & Worst Drone Strobe Lights in 2022

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  • Опубліковано 29 сер 2024
  • Are you wanting to fly a drone at night? If so, you need a good FAA approved anti-collision strobe light attached. This video demonstrates the capabilities and downfalls of 6 of the most popular drone strobes.
    Links to all of these strobe lights:
    Lumecube strobe: amzn.to/3ksXvWN
    Firehouse ARC V: amzn.to/3vZTO04
    Symik strobe: amzn.to/3LGf95e
    Vifly strobe: amzn.to/3LxsDAd
    Lucrob strobe: amzn.to/3kxYYes
    Ulanzi strobe: amzn.to/3F52OoA
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 318

  • @KarlBunker
    @KarlBunker 2 роки тому +30

    Another good thing about a strobe is that it can help you find a drone that has crashed in a wooded or otherwise overgrown area. My first "drone" was a $20 toy that had built-in flashing LEDs. It got lost in the woods near my house, but luckily for me and my $20 the LEDs were still flashing when I went out to look for it after sunset. (Tip: never try to use the return-to-home feature on a toy drone. It should be labeled "fly off in some random direction at top speed until you crash.")

    • @davidellis5135
      @davidellis5135 Рік тому +4

      JRC do great toy drones, the bugs 4w and the pro epic 5 return to home is excellent.

    • @flipmode00
      @flipmode00 Рік тому +1

      I lost one like that also lol.

    • @JW-uv7ww
      @JW-uv7ww Рік тому

      It's not "Another" good thing. He already covered that in the video. Dummy.

    • @jakemurphy7907
      @jakemurphy7907 Рік тому +2

      the toy drone i have made me scared to spend real money on a real drone, finally bought the mini 3 pro and damn is it easy to fly

    • @InoFughaul
      @InoFughaul 11 місяців тому +2

      The default RTH position is the factory! 🤣

  • @Feintgames
    @Feintgames Місяць тому

    I have the Vifly and i use three of them on my mini 3 pro. It really helps in the day to keep track of the drone. They are light and small and fit on the arms of the drone easily. They last long enough for three flights and possibly longer but i only have three batteries which is around 90 minutes of flying.

  • @JeffWhiting
    @JeffWhiting 2 роки тому +6

    I got the Firehouse Arc for my Air 2S a while back, and it's been great. It lasts all three of my batteries, which is fine with me.

  • @vwjd77
    @vwjd77 Рік тому +7

    I use Vifly on Mavic air 2. Wow they are very bright at night and dusk. I installed 3 of them and am impressed by them. Super light and super small. Velcro tape fixes them to the drone.

    • @TheJustin99
      @TheJustin99 10 місяців тому

      How’s the battery life on these? I like them better because I can also use the red and green light on the outmost part of the prop arms for navigation. But not sure how the battery life will be. I fly my drone a lot

  • @dronesandphotography9686
    @dronesandphotography9686 Рік тому +1

    VIFLY Drone Strobe Light Just received mine works perfect and so bright you can't look at it directly. I charged it and let it run to see how long it would last and in its flashing mode it lasted well over four hours. So no need to worry about it dying out while you're flying.

  • @kimtyson7908
    @kimtyson7908 2 роки тому +6

    I have the Arc V, Lumecube, and Ulanzi. I totally agree with what you said. I also just ordered the Micro version from Firehouse because I have confidence in their products, and I want it for my new Mini 3 that I hope to get. Thanks Russ. Keep up the good work.

    • @kimtyson7908
      @kimtyson7908 2 роки тому +1

      Just got my Micro Firehouse and it's very, very bright. Looks to be as bright as their Arc V. Highly recommend.

    • @davidmackinnon2968
      @davidmackinnon2968 2 роки тому +1

      @@kimtyson7908 will it keep the mini 3 under 250 grams?

    • @dennisx4492
      @dennisx4492 Місяць тому

      ​@@davidmackinnon2968No

  • @merlands1
    @merlands1 Рік тому +1

    Just bought the Firehouse Arc V !! Thank you.

  • @MaricopaJeff
    @MaricopaJeff 2 роки тому +1

    During the day I use a strobe as a locate it tool after looking away. In a bright AZ sky it is very easy to lose sight of the drone and I find that the strobe helps a great deal. I use that little tiny one.

  • @warrensidney5063
    @warrensidney5063 2 роки тому +1

    I just bought 2 Firehouse Arc V strobes for my Air 2S, one for the right front arm and the other for the back left. My eyes aren't what they used to be, so I thought these would help me see my drone at a greater distance. I was not disappointed! I was able to see my drone at a distance of 1500 ft. I had a Lumcube and could not see the strobe after 1000 ft. I would recommend the Arc V as well.

  • @larrypugh9662
    @larrypugh9662 2 роки тому +3

    Thank very much for the comparison. I have tried three or four of these and finally settled on the Fire House. I wish I could’ve seen this video before I spent money on the others…lol As usual your videos are always great and informative!

  • @GeroLubovnik
    @GeroLubovnik 2 роки тому +3

    Pretty good review Russ. I've tested most of those personally. @ $15 per strobe Vifly is the one to get unless you need maximum brightness. Only one stop less bright than the Arc V and same brightness as current Lume Cube. I seem to get longer batter life on the Vifly than you have though I've not tested the longevity but assume as much as I don't often recharge it. . But at 1/2 the price of most of the others, with all the features, I'd put that one in 1st or 2nd place. Three modes with 3 color options @ 6grams. Best bang for the buck. It's got about the same brightness level as the Firehouse ARC II (not the V). The Arc V, by estimate is 1 stop brighter than the Arc II or Vifly. Lumcorb is ineffective. The ARC V not only dims with reduced battery, but gets permanently dim over time; at least the ones I've owned. The Symik? Innate brightness isn't the full story of drone strobes. Size matters too. But yes, the Arc V is brighter than the Lume Cube as it is rated as such. Lume Cube- 500 lumens. Arc V 1000 lumens. The ARC V, which is rated at 3 miles can, by my test (over water at night) is only visible to 10k feet (with my 20/20 vision). FWIW, the Firehouse ARC II is comparable to the Lume Cube and Vifly in brightness. The Lume Cube is a better buy now than the Arc II, but the Vifly is a great value. In that test I had a red, green and two clear Arc V's attached to my Mavic 2 Pro. You can only see the small dots so far, regardless of the brightness. The 3 mile testing is based on lumens, not real life practice. What I would advise people is buy two Viflys for red and green orientation and clear Arc V. FWIW in daylight the strobes will take your ability to see your drone from approx 600' to about 1600'. The ARC V, which is rated at 3 miles can, by my test (over water at night) is only visible to 10k feet (with my 20/20 vision).

  • @Reurbo
    @Reurbo 2 роки тому +16

    After seeing another channel (Pilot Institute) do a real world test with several strobe options (it was over a year ago) I ended up getting the Firehouse Arc V within the last 2 months. I don't remember them having/testing the Lume Cube, but after they showed the Firehouse Arc V be the clear winner in the lot with it easily being visible from 3 statute miles I got it and haven't looked at anything else since. Really liked all the info you brought up on this though! And yes, it looks like there are a ton of strobes on the market now which don't live up to their advertised capabilities

    • @9999Michigan
      @9999Michigan 2 роки тому +1

      Same here. The Pilot Institute review.

  • @jimanderson4865
    @jimanderson4865 2 роки тому +2

    Thank You Russ. Being new to the hobby. Helped informed me what's available. As many others, the Arc V has my vote.👍

  • @MD_is_me
    @MD_is_me 6 місяців тому

    This is an older video, I know, but it led me to buy the Vifly in 2024. The Vifly is little More than a PCB strobe encased in clear heat-shrink tubing but I don't fly in the rain so it's fine; I did mount it so the USB port opening is aft, though. The lack of a case makes for a lightweight, low profile, anti-collision strobe. I also added nav lights to my Atom but since they are for MY benefit and not subject to the 3 mile rule they are not as bright as the Vifly but, as a result, only about $2.50 each. Thanks for this well thought out comparison video

  • @lorageproductions
    @lorageproductions 2 роки тому +2

    Firehouse Arc 5 are amazing...

  • @user-jx3jp3gb4x
    @user-jx3jp3gb4x 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks! YOU convinced me that even though I am a first time Drone user, I will have fun, and that's all I want it for. I have subscribed and want to thank you for the very helpful videos. Now, I have to go watch some more of your videos and determine that the DJI Mini 3 Pro is going to be just right for me. Thank YOU!

  • @RonaldBrown59
    @RonaldBrown59 2 роки тому +1

    I have the Vicky strobe, and your right, it’s amazing for its low price and small size. Great review, thanks for sharing.

  • @edwardwillever2213
    @edwardwillever2213 2 роки тому +1

    I’ve got the Ulanzi strobe and I think you did a disservice as to not even giving it a chance. I often put my mini-2 out 7-8 thousand feet away at night with no visibility issues. It’s a very bright strobe for what it is and a great size + run time. You really should throw it up at night and see what you’re missing.

    • @51Drones
      @51Drones  2 роки тому

      Are you sure you don’t have the bigger Ulanzi?

    • @edwardwillever2213
      @edwardwillever2213 2 роки тому

      @@51Drones positive, I have the Ulanzi you said you didn’t bother testing. It’s an outstanding mini strobe.

  • @robwasnj
    @robwasnj 2 роки тому +9

    Really solid video Russ. One thing that I feel lacks all around in strobes are elegant mounting options. I have the Firehouse Arc V, i used the velcro on my Air2 and Air2s and Mini for about a year but eventually the velcro got iffy and imagine if the strobe did come detached and wind up breaking a prop? What I have now is a 3d printed clip that goes over top of the battery and latches onto the release buttons. It works but I still question how secure it is and in addition removing the strobe to charge it is a pain, it's also a bulky piece to keep in my bag. I'm really surprised drone manufacturers haven't integrated strobes into the drones or someone hasn't come up with a really nice fitting 100% secure 3rd party solution. Another interesting point is when I put a strobe on top of my drone I really don't see it until it's at quite distance, if i put it on the bottom there's be a lot more visibility to me but not to aircraft which presumably fly higher than my drone. Something that could be truly seen from all directions would be ideal, maybe something that sat a bit higher off the top of the drone and projected it's light in all directions.

    • @GeroLubovnik
      @GeroLubovnik 2 роки тому +1

      The velcro provided by Firehouse fails quickly. I had an ARC V fall off and get lost after limited velcro use. 3rd party HD velcro or 3M dual-lock is much more dependable. Good velcro is the lightest, most versatile solution IMO.

    • @ghost1917
      @ghost1917 2 роки тому

      I also use a 3d printed clip for my Dual white strobe on my Air 2S, I haven't experienced any issues with the clip coming loose and I slightly modified the clip so I don't need to remove the strobe from the clip to charge it. The Dual white has a flatter profile than the Arc V which is why I chose it over the Arc V...: )

    • @mabele6857
      @mabele6857 2 роки тому

      I use 2 Arc V's: one on top is meant to improve the drone's visibility to other (manned) airspace users for collision prevention; the one on the bottom is for the drone operator to aid navigation.
      I use 3m dual lock. The issue I foresee with some 3d printed strobe cases is that they negatively affect the 360 degrees visibility as required by the FAA if the case's edge sits higher than the top strobe cover.

  • @jstev67
    @jstev67 Рік тому +1

    Great video thanks. The Vifly may 😂only get 90 minutes and not waterproof but you can get 3 for $45 which is 4.5 hours and if you need to fly your drone in wet weather put some clear tape over the holes. I like the Vifly more than firehouse and Lame Cube as it fits the mini much better I can put two on, set one red and other green and know which way it is going from ground for better visual line of sight. I have the new ones with the usb c ports so not sure how or if charging better than older style. Well that’s my two cents just wanted to add it. Keep up you great vids and thanks.

  • @AJJA68
    @AJJA68 2 роки тому +1

    I bought the Vifly strobe and was surprised on just how bright it was!
    Going to order a couple more.

  • @markkempton4579
    @markkempton4579 2 роки тому +2

    I've not heard of the Arc V. When I bought mine a few years ago, I got the Arc XL, which is 1000 lumens compared to the 800 of the Arc V. It also includes a 90db siren to help you find a downed drone. Highly recommend it!

  • @carlupthegrove262
    @carlupthegrove262 Рік тому

    I've never flown my at night (yet) but I was wondering about 'finding it' in the sky during daylight hours. Your final comments cleared that up.... thank you.... for now I think I'll just keep a strobe on my 'to be purchased in the future' list.

  • @AerialPixel
    @AerialPixel 2 роки тому +12

    Great video as usual Russ, the best strobe in my opinion for the Mini 2 is one not in your lineup. It's a new one by Firehouse Technology called the Micro. It has 5 of the exact LED's the ARC V has but it weighs 5 grams instead of 13 grams.
    Thank you for everything you do for the Drone community!

    • @smbishop63
      @smbishop63 2 роки тому +1

      Just ordered it!

    • @davidobrien6505
      @davidobrien6505 2 роки тому

      Looks great. Ideal if it is essential to save 8 grams. But the Firehouse website says about the Micro - “ please look at our ARC series lights that have multiple Cree leds on one board and are SIGNIFICANTLY BRIGHTER and are approved for nights flights by FAA (waiver on file).”

    • @AerialPixel
      @AerialPixel 2 роки тому

      @@davidobrien6505 I'll talk to Scott at Firehouse, they need to change that. It's the same exact LED's just a smaller board design. The micro actually appears brighter at closer distances, but the same at further distances, I think this is due to the LED's being closer together, you get a more pointed light. But it is still 5 XRP LED's just like the ARC V. I think they must have copied the description from the Dual Strobe when making the product page.

    • @GeroLubovnik
      @GeroLubovnik 2 роки тому +1

      Thanks for the heads up. This seems to be a very new product. $25 makes it a very good buy and I'm sure without the ARC V housing it's probably 5 grams lighter. In red and green these could be outstanding for spotting orientation from a distance without looking at your monitor screen's map.

    • @Thephysiquemechanic
      @Thephysiquemechanic 2 роки тому

      @@AerialPixel got a link to those micros?

  • @YellowRoseDrones
    @YellowRoseDrones 2 роки тому +2

    I've got 2 Lume Cubes and 3 ViFly units. The ViFly does have a shortened service time between charges. I've also got 2 Ulanti strobes as well, but they're not my favorite.

  • @gmoorach
    @gmoorach 2 роки тому

    I know it's more weight. But, when using my strobes, I use the Firehouse Arc V's. I have a white and red. I mount the red on the underside and white on top.

  • @y_i_fly5418
    @y_i_fly5418 2 роки тому +1

    Super awesome review Russ. And definitely will look into getting the Firehouse strobe, although some of the other’s come close but you’re an honest reviewer and we trust in your word.

  • @E85_STI
    @E85_STI Рік тому

    I want a strobe for my mini 2 and watching all your videos for info and suggestions as it helps us save money and getting something good first time go.

  • @fortyfour6626
    @fortyfour6626 2 роки тому +1

    I have bought dozens of lights....including all that were reviewed. The "time" they stay illuminated fully is not an issue as long as it isnt under about 40 minutes for me. I have a drone with 3 batteries and usually go through 2 which is about 40 minutes. Everything then gets put back on the chargers so if a light has a 4 hour time, I dont care really. Its all about visibility. The firehouse series has been by far the best. ARC-V will stay lit for the duration of the drones flight no problem. With a mini, the bottom clip on housing works excellent by allowing you to point the light "down". I usually use the newest one which has a blue setting for the bottom then one on the battery door with velcro and then one more light on the top. The absolute best lights I have that the mini can handle are my home made set ups. I have a light board of COB that runs through unlimited colors at 1350 lumens. Its awesome. It only lasts about 30 minutes which is fine before needing a recharge. I simply find no use for lights that sacrifice intensity for duration. Oh, nd if you buy Firehouse, buy direct....they have really good customer service and ship stuff fast.

  • @bwmcelya
    @bwmcelya Рік тому

    Ulanzi. I use it facing down in order to see it from the ground. Works great. Visible for a couple miles. The big firehouse sits on top for FAA. I fly with two strobes at night. Mini2.

  • @stevenmiller8305
    @stevenmiller8305 Рік тому

    I thank you for another great video! I have owned and own several of these same lights and similar ones and use them for flying my drones in my large yard after dark. I have slightly different priorities than you and most others here.
    We live on a small uncontrolled privately owned public use airfield with our airplanes. There are 116 parcels with hangars and houses built around the airfield. My neighbors are understandably concerned about obstacles that might interfere with their flights. I have neighbors next door on both sides of me who work for the FAA so I deal with people whose knowledge of the rules is at a fairly high level. I don't fly the drones in space where they are likely to come into contact with other aircraft. They are kept over my property and typically lower that the level of the trees.
    Our parcel is approximately 3/4 of an acre but only 100 feet wide. The neighbor's houses on both sides are built towards the rear of their lots while ours is built closer to the runway, so the drones are in full view of their homes. While they insist that I follow the rules as they interpret them to the letter, they also do not appreciate very bright strobes after dark while I wiz around for typically around half an hour after dark especially in the fall and winter.
    What I now use is the same type as the Ulanzi DR-02 Anti-Collision Light For Drone that you have featured, only the ones that I purchased are 4 for approximately $13. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B45NNDKB Are they visible for 3+ statute miles? I have no way of easily testing this but the ad on Amazon claims in a typical Chinese translation, "The strobe lamp allows to be visible from 3+ miles away". It is bright enough to screw up someone's night vision if you are looking directly at it when you turn it on. I made a copy of the ad and put it on my phone in case one of them confronts me again, but they are actually happier with an anti-collision light that is not outrageously bright and distracting while they are sitting in their living rooms watching TV.

  • @fortyfour6626
    @fortyfour6626 Рік тому

    Still a good video with relevant content even half way through 2023. I’ve bought everything out there. Some lights I use just for entertainment.. smaller cheaper ones with interesting color choices. When it comes to flying at night and being compliant, firehouse has been hands down my best experience. I have a 3d printed attachment that locks on to the bottom and keeps the venting on the DJI clear to keep heat down. Having 2 1000 lumen blading straight down is amazing. I have 2 facing down but also one on top and one on back strobing. Firehouse arc V can be seen way beyond 3 miles. We tested it it and even through Florida haze it was clear. Other brands either aren’t as bright, battery life after time just fails or some other weakness. ARCV definitely worth the cost. Stays out with 3m Velcro ( no anxiety once on… for those of you who know what I mean by anxiety… I felt confident it wouldn’t fall off). I do take them on and off a lot and the Velcro will get weaker but it’s easy just to change it out for some new Velcro. Also, you can buy directly from firehouse and their service is superb. Nice to buy direct.

  • @ArizonaWyldwest10
    @ArizonaWyldwest10 2 роки тому

    Good lights and review. I don’t like Velcro mounting strobes and they are a bit bulky. Mounted On top, bottom, back or front, don’t give full all around viewing. Firehouse ARC II strobes with arm mounts. Front and rear facing which emit light above and below. Very bright and much better for front, rear, above, below and from sides. They work all around at any angle. 👍🏼

  • @dennisbrooks240
    @dennisbrooks240 2 роки тому +1

    Great video and evaluation. Several new to the club buying drones and strobes are looking for advice. Side by Side displays are GREAT! Also the weights versus price and quality. I flew three batteries for 75 minutes of flight in 22 gusting to 32 mph winds. distorted half mile "Circle" by over 1000' further out as Circle finished. DJI Air 2S Quickshot.

  • @garryfancy7406
    @garryfancy7406 7 місяців тому

    Appreciate your comments re daytime visibility

  • @johnbastin722
    @johnbastin722 2 роки тому

    Thanks Russ, I went for the Lume cube.

  • @jmcguire56
    @jmcguire56 2 роки тому +1

    Nice test Russ. I'm going to try mounting my Lume Cube on the battery door and see what it does for improved visibility.

  • @dennisbrooks240
    @dennisbrooks240 2 роки тому +1

    Arc 5 worked great all three flights, morning and afternoon split.

  • @aloeisthestuff9622
    @aloeisthestuff9622 Рік тому +1

    Vifly for the WIN. You can even rebuild the Strobes and Beacons.

  • @photosbyscottvavroch
    @photosbyscottvavroch 2 роки тому +1

    Keep up the great work it help me pick out a light for my Drone.

  • @Edgar-sw8yi
    @Edgar-sw8yi 2 роки тому

    Thanks, just got a mini 2 yesterday

  • @robertlu893
    @robertlu893 6 місяців тому

    I just purchased the firehouse tonight on Amazon. So I’m glad you recommended as well.

  • @scottthroop6208
    @scottthroop6208 2 роки тому +2

    I had the Arc V on my 3DR Solo, and it was great! Unfortunately I lost it, probably left it at one of my fly spots. I also have my Mini 2 and Mini SE that I recently outfitted with the Vifly strobes. I run 3 of them on the Mini, green on the right side in slow flash mode, red on the left side in slow flash, white fast strobe on the back during the day, and move it to the top front at night. I fly out over the ocean a lot here in California, getting footage of whales, dolphins and great white sharks. Depending on the time of day, I can spot the drone up to 1000 to 1500 feet out. If I do lose LOS, I just yaw the drone in place, and reacquire visual quickly when I see the green, red and white flash. After sunset, I can easily and clearly spot it well over a mile and a half out. Im sure they are visible 3+ miles, but I havnt pushed the Mini's that far to find out. In flash and strobe mode, they outlast my 4 drone batteries for a flight session, which is all I really need them to do. For the price and tiny size, they are perfect for the Mini drones, although running 3 at a time does exceed the 249g mark, bringing the Mini SE up to 259g with no effect on flight performance or battery time. With the price of these, you cant go wrong. I got two 3 piece bundles for $35 each from Amazon (6 total/$70+tax). Been happy with them so far, and use them on multiple drones. The Firehouse Arc V is a nicer unit, just too bulky and pricey to run more than one on a Mini.

  • @gptravel531
    @gptravel531 2 роки тому +1

    I have two older Firehouse Arc II (much lighter without the newer case) and mounted one on top and one on the back of my mini. I can see my mini almost a mile away during the day and the full three miles at night. A great strobe. It’s, obviously, not available anymore but I would not hesitate buying the new Arc today.

  • @davepompea
    @davepompea 2 роки тому +1

    I hate to dispute some things, but I must. “You’re required to have an FAA approved anti-collision light.”
    There is no such thing as a sUav (“drone”) FAA approved anti-collision light. There are FAA approved anti-collision lights for certified aircraft which cost over $700. An example is a Whelen 01-0790520-01.
    Anti-collision lights must project in 360 degrees, not just one direction. And be visible at 3 sm in all directions. This is the implicit definition of an Anti-collision light. Unless you mount at least 4 to 6 of the ones shown, on your aircraft, point outward, you are not meeting the requirement. Many manufactures say their light is “compatible with the … FAA lights rules”. “Compatible” does not mean it meets the rules.
    Some anti-collision light manufactures say they meet FAA “guidelines”. Some say their light is approved. Negative on both. There are no FAA guidelines, only rules. Any company that say theirs is approved actually means that they listed the light when applying for a 107.29 exception and that application was approved. However, the FAA did not approve the actual light.
    If you read the manufactures literature carefully you will see none of them state 3sm for 360 degrees. Except the AVEO Engineering MicroMax ($230) and Redbaron ($589) and both need external power.
    For example, the 3.7 mile Symix says “Test Condition: Battery fully charged … Directly Facing Observer, …” Well, at least they tell you, most do not.
    Some do tell, in a round about way. Look at the data sheet for the Firehouse Arc V. It shows has a chart that shows it projects only 25% light at 90 degrees and says it meets the 3sm rule at 0-45 degrees. You would need 4 of them to meet the FAA rules.
    If you want to actually meet the FAA rule for anti-collision lights you’ll have to do more than put one on the top/bottom or front/rear of your drone.

  • @svfdfireman155
    @svfdfireman155 2 роки тому

    I love my Firehouse Arc V strobes.

  • @stevelabonte9020
    @stevelabonte9020 Рік тому

    I bought the VIFLY in a 3 pack Black Friday sale. I like that they have 3 flash modes and have 3 colors. I bought for both night flight and extrnding daytime tracking.

  • @JOEBlalock23
    @JOEBlalock23 2 роки тому +1

    Great review Russ

  • @maximilian.R
    @maximilian.R Рік тому +3

    Thank you for the video! It is helpful. However, on the Lucorb strobe, it is designed to be omni-directional, but with each color for a specific side, just like on the airplanes or boats. The red should be visible to the left, only, green to the right, and white from the rear, only. Airplanes have a similar layout. So, another airman would be able to figure out what the SUA is doing--what direction is going. The strobe would be ideal underneath the SUA, but the red and green color would have to be reversed, so they point in the correct directions. A soldering gun, and some fun--it can be done. I do not fly me drone at 3 miles away because it is beyond visual line of site. That strobe would be ideal for lesser distance and underneath the drone. Cheers and thank you for the video!

    • @johnabbottphotography
      @johnabbottphotography Рік тому

      "So, another airman would be able to figure out what the SUA is doing--what direction is going."
      I just have to point out that with a drone, you're rarely going in one direction. I'm often going backwards, or side to side. So knowing which way is the "front" isn't as useful.
      Or maybe that's just me.

    • @ITech2005
      @ITech2005 Рік тому

      ​@@johnabbottphotographyI find that it's definitely still useful. Sometimes at night it can be hard to tell what direction the drone is facing.

  • @daveusifer8401
    @daveusifer8401 2 роки тому +1

    Hi Russ. Great video as usual but to be honest when you showed the portion of testing outside on the drone I honestly couldn't see it on the video. I bought a Ulanzi DR-01 which is actually pretty damn bright and goes way longer then my drone lasts with 4 batteries.

  • @dcimagesaz1
    @dcimagesaz1 Рік тому

    After watching your review I installed 4 Firehouse lights on my ufo drone. Two multi colors on the back and two white on the front . Mounted them on the landing gear. Flew the ufo for the Arizona Electric Festival. Thanks

  • @sutv6754
    @sutv6754 2 роки тому +1

    Ross I bought the fire house and used your link. I have the LUME CUBE. I won't go into the long story of why I don't like it but I will say this. I am surprised that none of the reviews mention if a lite is water proof or not. Truth be told the lume cube is. I crashed my mavic 2 pro in the creek and the light stayed on for a long time. Time enough for me to retrieve it. With out the lite no way would I have been able. I had DJI refresh, so the light and water proofing saved my butt big time. It's so important if you have a drone with refresh to be able return it. I remember once you lost your gopro in the lake. People crash in water a lot and none of reviews including yours say a word about this very important detail. Do you know if the fire house will work if your drone goes under water. If not, I will return it and the another lume cube.

    • @51Drones
      @51Drones  2 роки тому +1

      Yes! The Firehouse is also waterproof!

  • @benjaminuffermann
    @benjaminuffermann Рік тому

    i am using the ulanzi at 3:45 and have no issues. in germany we have to use a greenlight at night, in daytime i use the whiteflash and have no birdstrikes at all. 👍

  • @andreasober2740
    @andreasober2740 2 роки тому +3

    Thank you for your in-depth review of the strobe lights. I have the Vifly and I'm very happy with it. I actually use it more to have a visual on my drone during daytime flying. The compact size allowed me to mount it on the bottom of my Mini 2 and it's crazy bright!

  • @SunriseWaterMedia
    @SunriseWaterMedia 2 роки тому +1

    I've only tried the firehouse strobes, and they've been good. 👍

  • @jjjuhola
    @jjjuhola 9 місяців тому +1

    Great content, Russ. Thanks!

  • @dronedownunder652
    @dronedownunder652 2 роки тому

    Depends what you are using them for. I've got most of these but I luv the Ulanzi on RC planes and helis because of cost and form factor.

  • @imake.imagesphotographer6726
    @imake.imagesphotographer6726 2 роки тому

    You say that they don't help much dury the day. but i see it was cloudy when you did that test. i live in arizona and the skies are almost always very bright. i find they help a great deal against the very bright sky. also, i found the villafly to be much more visible than the firehouse. And i've tested them all except for the heavy one. This is the first i've heard of it. thanks again!

  • @Errr717
    @Errr717 2 роки тому

    Vifly seems to be a good choice. Small and bright, and cheap. I'll buy two if I needed to fly more than 2-3 hours. With the price I can buy at least one for each of my drones. I have the Lume Cube now and it just looks so clunky. I don't know about the Firehouse; it looks too big.
    Good job with the comparison testing.

  • @Jeffli76
    @Jeffli76 2 роки тому

    love you!!!, just solved my headache, I think the firehouse is the best, the only drawback is the price and the weight for the mini 2. Vifly seems like the best all-around for mini, battery is an issue but easy to solve, getting 2 would outlast 3 batteries of my mini 2.

  • @twrmoor
    @twrmoor 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks for this review have the Ulanzi but might have to upgrade to the vfly to stay CAA (uk) compliant don't fly much at nigh but at sunset a lot so it's certainly useful then. Btw was great to see you on Ken Heron's TNL hope you will go on there again (hard to keep up with Ken's clowning what a funny guy).

  • @billfarnham1592
    @billfarnham1592 2 роки тому

    Great seeing you smiling on Ken's show!

  • @bro_FREE
    @bro_FREE Рік тому

    Great video this helped me a lot as I have a night project coming up and was not sure what strobe to get. Thanks for sharing this info.

  • @mikehartmann5187
    @mikehartmann5187 2 роки тому

    I prefer using strobes for daylight flights to aid visibility both for visual observers and anti-collision. I used 2 Arc 5 strobes on top of a Phantom 4, and 2 strobes below. To my eyes the phantom vanishes in overcast conditions, and the strobes help keep eyes on it. I used some modelers balsa wood to fabricate pads for the strobes that I glued to the body of the Phantom using 2-part epoxy. No issues 2 years in. I bought an extra camera storage bracket, and cut it in half fashioning pads on each end and attach the Arc5’s to the legs of the drone with the 2 strobes oriented downwards On either side of the drone. Not elegant perhaps, but 2 strobes for anti collision, and 2 strobes for ground visibility works great for me. I agree that manufacturers should be adding strobe pads to their products to aid with this requirement, as it isn’t going away.

  • @user-zr1rm5zw4q
    @user-zr1rm5zw4q 10 місяців тому

    that LUCORB t-t3 is a very good one for the price and its super bright I have it for my air 3

  • @PracticingPhotography
    @PracticingPhotography 11 місяців тому

    Thanks for the good review video. Just got another drone and needed another strobe. I used your firehouse link and will have it in a day or two. Thanks, it will make my mavic 3 pro look awesome at night :)

  • @capeRCouple
    @capeRCouple 2 роки тому +1

    i have a different type of strobe by ulanzi and i must say it is very bright and you can change the light colors between red white and green,it also has 6 led's in it instead of 2 like the one you have and i have flown mine out 1.5km and could still see the strobe but the battery inside didn't last to long so i opened the strobe and replaced the battery myself but i can tell you this was never meant to be opened to replace this battery but i did get it done and now the light is back to normal again,i did however have to glue the case back together with gorilla glue.

    • @51Drones
      @51Drones  2 роки тому +1

      yes, the larger Ulanzi is a bit better. I already reviewed that one a few years ago.

    • @MyMiniDroneLife
      @MyMiniDroneLife Рік тому

      @@51Drones-Another great review, thank you. I Use a ARC V and a Ulanzi DR-01 which Ulanzi states meets FAA requirements, The Dr-02 in this review I would use for drone orientation ,it also went on sale on Amazon for $9.98 for black Friday, I bought another one, now that just means I need to buy another Drone!

  • @paullthomas8064
    @paullthomas8064 2 роки тому

    Thanks Russ!
    Happy Flying

  • @nightwaves3203
    @nightwaves3203 Рік тому

    Vifly one of the 10 color settings is all colors red green and white at the same time that looks like a white strobe you were testing. You could of been running the battery low faster on the all colors strobing that looks white. It's right besides the white only strobing and near impossible to know unless counting button clicks. Mine are great.

  • @cadroneinca
    @cadroneinca 2 роки тому

    Thanks for your videos! You have helped me with my flights, video and equipment. Keep up the great work.

  • @pmh1nic
    @pmh1nic 2 роки тому

    Thanks for a great review.

  • @WineWorldTV
    @WineWorldTV 2 роки тому

    I have the older version of the Firehouse. I have a white, red, and green. I use it for daytime for my ANAFI. I find that I easily lose the ANAFI beyond 800-1000' if I look away. The strobe allowed me to get to about 1500'. I probably could have gone a little bit farther, but I didn't want to push it at the time. But only the white strobe allowed me to see it that far. I put all 3 on the drone. White for the rear, red for port, and green for starboard on the front legs. They help, but the red and green aren't as bright for daytime flying as the white.

  • @TMS5100
    @TMS5100 2 роки тому

    Arc V is unbelievably bright. I was suprised when I got mine.

  • @Cervin_Suisse
    @Cervin_Suisse 2 роки тому

    Thank you for the instructive video. Why so much emphasis on the battery duration though ?

  • @scottneamon9933
    @scottneamon9933 2 роки тому

    The idea for this video is great for newish pilots

  • @jameswfreedom641
    @jameswfreedom641 2 роки тому

    I bought the Arc 5 as well for my Air 2s. I did a lot of research and it seemed it was the most talked about one, which is why I chose it. The only thing I didn't like was the way it is turned on.

  • @jakesdronelife6307
    @jakesdronelife6307 2 роки тому

    Love my firehouse arc v’s I have several in my arsenal of strobes !!! Nice video Russ keep ‘em coming buddy !!!👊🏻👍🏻💪🏻

  • @JamesMerle-qi3uz
    @JamesMerle-qi3uz Рік тому

    Grateful for all of the information!! tI really helps in making responsible and successful performance of ones drone!!

  • @Hidden_Destinations
    @Hidden_Destinations Рік тому +1

    I have been a sub since you started. Please try to answer some of the questions you are given. I know your subs have increased but stay engaged!

  • @dougcooper4917
    @dougcooper4917 2 роки тому

    Excellent Review Video Russ! Well Done! Thank You.

  • @northtexas.spotteralonsofr3942
    @northtexas.spotteralonsofr3942 2 роки тому

    Same here I have the vifly strobe light it’s really bright I flew my drone just over 1 mile and I can still clearly see it

  • @alan.macrae
    @alan.macrae 2 роки тому

    Great stuff as always, Russ! Thank you.

  • @Abb0nz1
    @Abb0nz1 2 роки тому

    Another great, and very useful, video Russ.
    Thanks!

  • @MrEddieNunez
    @MrEddieNunez 2 роки тому

    Buying a strobe has been on my list to do for a while

  • @DougPetersenInspire
    @DougPetersenInspire 2 роки тому

    Thanks Russ. I use Firehouse.

  • @georgekelly1948
    @georgekelly1948 2 роки тому

    Great review. Glad I bought the Firehouse, which has served me well. Cheers.

  • @herbmayer4319
    @herbmayer4319 2 роки тому

    Very informative video, you’re doing a great job, keep it up!

  • @droningwesternaustralia
    @droningwesternaustralia 2 роки тому +1

    Great review Russ,
    What would be interesting to know if you are using the strobe during the day to "improve vlos range" would having the strobe flashing red or green be better than flashing white

  • @keithrandall9076
    @keithrandall9076 2 роки тому

    I bought 2 of the ViFly strobes $14.99 each because they only weigh 6 grams each.
    I have not tested how long they light up, but with only 3 batteries
    for my mini 2. The strobes outlast the drone batteries.
    And if one strobe is dead, it charges faster then the other strobe dies.
    So I'm never without a light if I want it on.
    & I stay under 249g. Having a strobe on the ground is also helpful
    in finding the landing pad in the dark.

  • @ripdaerffarm250
    @ripdaerffarm250 8 місяців тому +1

    Thanks!

  • @KarlBlessing
    @KarlBlessing Рік тому

    When you're "looking" for the strobes when you went past 1300~1500 feet away, were you trying to look directly at them, or were you using your peripheral vision more (better night vision in your peripheral when you been out in the dark for longer than 30 mins).

  • @bobmusikk
    @bobmusikk Рік тому

    In Canada, the Firehouse V cost with US shipping 100$,,, the ViFly since its on Amazon Canada cost 20$... hello the choice is clear :)

  • @bugman5581
    @bugman5581 Рік тому

    Thanks for the informative video, I ordered the Vifly via your link. I was looking for a small lightweight strobe that would keep my mini 2 under 250gms and the strobe you recommended should do the trick! thank you

  • @ricardopr54
    @ricardopr54 2 роки тому

    What about the Firehouse Technology Arc II... That one is a bright as the 5 but lighter in weight!

  • @brandonbensen6532
    @brandonbensen6532 2 роки тому

    Thank you Russ for another great video.

  • @disgruntledegghead6923
    @disgruntledegghead6923 2 роки тому +1

    I'll hit the like button even though the video didn't improve my experience. I purchased the Arc V when you first showcased it, and it proves that you get what you pay for. Stupid bright, and has several very good strobe patterns.
    Besides, the people that would be spending more than four hours of night flying can certainly afford to have more than one light. Because how many batteries do you need to fly four hours straight?

  • @shaynestephens
    @shaynestephens 2 роки тому

    Great reviews, Russ. Thanks!

  • @lynsmith1096
    @lynsmith1096 2 роки тому

    Good informative video Russ.

  • @user-wr9zz2ne2t
    @user-wr9zz2ne2t Рік тому +1

    You definitely put in the extra effort when it comes to your reviews! Thank you for the content and that extra effort really helps a lot, keep up the great work!

  • @touring4973
    @touring4973 Рік тому

    Thanks! I will be buying the ARC V or the Symik GS600( when available)