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Review Summary
2022-06-10T14:54:42
The Sony Airpeak is one of the best flying machines in the world, sometimes. This is going to be a long review so hope you a little time to spend with me. I have owned the Sony Airpeak for coming up on 6 months now. The first 2 months I owned the drone were very rough. I sent my first Airpeak back and Sony sent me a brand new one after finding some issues with my unit. My second Airpeak came and it was almost perfect other then not having the 4+ firmware updates that have happened since. At the time of writing this the last firmware made the Airpeak one of the best drones in the world in it's class. Firmware version 1.1.0 for the Sony Airpeak S1 drone packs in a ton of new features and improvements for professional filmmakers. In addition to a new Direct Repeat Flight function, camera settings are also being updated to add Drive Mode through which you can select shooting options such as Continuous Shooting or Self-timer. Moreover, operators will now be able to control the file format, too, in addition to the aperture value and shutter speed. This firmware update makes the drone one of the most impressive things I've ever seen. I own the Sony A1 and being able to have almost full control of a camera like that in the air is truly mind blowing. I also own the Mavic Air 2S and Mavic 3. That is the only time I will mention them in this review as I don't think you can compare any DJI drone to the Airpeak because this is just the start for Sony. When I purchased the Airpeak I went in with a very open mind knowing there would be rough times and the drone would be somewhat of a work in progress and I think that was true. At the time of you reading this review however the Airpeak as of now is seriously one of the best investments you can make if you are a small production company that use drones for doc or commercial work. I gave the Airpeak 4 stars because it isn't perfect yet and it is the first, but I will say this... if you balance the gimbal right and have experience flying it everything you create will be 5 star world class level photo or video. The main take away I want you all to have if you are thinking about buying this drone is this. You are paying a good amount of money for something that is truly going to set you apart. No matter what camera you put up, The A1, A7SIII, FX3, or A7RIV it's going to be very clear that you are flying a pro level aircraft. Being able to shoot 8K in the air, 50mp still and also 4:2:2 10bit in Slog3 or S-Cinetone has really again been just mind blowing to me. That is if you are a video creator. If you are buying the Airpeak for just photography and know how to fly safe and smart, I think THE AIRPEAK IS THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHY DRONE IN THE WORLD when paired with the Sony A1 or whatever new high megapixiel camera Sony decides to make. Sony is just getting started with with the Airpeak brand will be and I really think the $18000 plus I spent was worth it. Sorry for any typos hope this helps! Instagram - @Lemargriffinfilms
Lemar G.
2021-06-12T20:00:00
Hi, I was pleased to see a more detailed update on the Airpeak S1, I was disappointed to see the Airpeak delivery has slipped to the fall of 2021. I eagerly anticipate the delivery of the product. Two items you need to fix before delivery - 1) The battery charger needs to hold four batteries, charging of all four batteries does not need to be simultaneously, but can be in rotation. I did not see an adapter for charging batters in a motor vehicle, you need one of these for remote location shooting. Definitely need with only 12 minutes of flight time with a gimbal and alpha camera attached and an hour to charge a battery. 2) The use of only Apple products for computers, tablets and phones is unacceptable and dooms any purchase I would make. You need to support Android products and Windows 10. Their are more Windows and Android users than there are Apple users in the movie, still photography and drone markets. The use of Apple OS and products leaves out the phones and tablets made by Sony. Can the FVP be used for taking photos and movies?, Is there onboard storage for images captured from the FVP. Can the FVP provide a look down capability for manually landing? Does the IMU need a drone dance to get it aligned before first flight at a new location? Out of curiosity if the Airpeak S1 does not have the gimbal and Alpha camera attached what other video devices can be attached? I am as always a dedicated Sony camera user.
RonA7

15.35 lbs (6.96kg)
5.58 lbs (2.53kg)
25m/s (55.9mph) without payload, obstacle brake disabled
7m/s (without payload, obstacle brake disabled)
4m/s (without payload, obstacle brake disabled)
Approx. 3.5 seconds (from 0 to 49.7mph, without payload)
Pitch: 180 Degree /s, Yaw: 180 Degree /s, Roll:180 Degree /s (Vision Positioning disabled)
55 Degree (Obstacle brake disabled), 35 Degree (Obstacle brake enabled)
20m/s (44.7 mph) (without payload)
8,202' (Above Sea Level, with max payload)
14 - 104 Degree F (-10 - 40 Degree C)
Approx.22 minutes (without payload) Approx.12 minutes (with a7SIII and SEL24F14GM)
Vertical; +/-0.3' , Horizontal; +/-0.3' (GNSS and Vision Positioning enabled) Vertical; +/-1.6', Horizontal; +/-4.9' (GNSS enabled and Vision Positioning disabled)
2.4 - 2.4835GHz, 5.15 - 5.25GHz, 5.725 - 5.82GHz
2.4 - 2.4835GHz; 23.8dBm, 5.15 - 5.25GHz; 18dBm, 5.725 - 5.82GHz; 25.6dBm
2.4 - 2.4835 GHz; 1.2 mile 5.15 - 5.25 GHz; 0.6 mile 5.725 - 5.82 GHz; 1.2mile
PPL1785
17"
Raise and lower
GPS, GLONASS, QZSS
Method : Stereo camera Direction : Front, back, right, left and downward directions Operating Environment; Surfaces with clear patterns and adequate lighting Sensing Range, FOV; 1.6 - 177.2', HFOV&VFOV 80 Degree
Method; Infrared, Direction; Up and downward directions Sensing Range, FOV; 0.3 - 6.6', FOV +/-20 Degree
1/4" 8.17Mpx CMOS Sensor
30 fps
DFOV 120 Degree
2 Axises Gimbal (Tilt, Roll)
ILCE-1; ILME-FX3; ILCE-7C; ILCE-9M2; ILCE-7SM3; ILCE-7RM4; ILCE-7RM3; ILCE-7M3; ILCE-9
SEL14F18GM; SEL20F18G; SEL24F14GM; SEL24F28G; SEL28F20; SEL35F28Z; SEL35F18F; SEL40F25G; SEL50F25G; SEL50F18F; SEL50M28; SEL55F18Z; SEL85F18
GBL-T3 (Gremsy Gimbal)
Required, included
Lithium-Ion Polymer
2
-
20.75 x 23.38 x 20.25" (52.7 x 59.38 x 51.4cm) (Landing position, without propellers)
20.75 x 39.88 x 20.25" (52.7 x 101.2 x 51.4cm) (Landing gear is up)
Diagonal Wheelbase: 25.5" (64.77cm) (Without propellers)
6.93 lbs (3.14kg) (Without battery packs)


Break the boundaries of aerial expression.
Advanced drone technology to inspire creators to new heights. The sky is your canvas. Let your creativity soar.
Better Integration for More Creativity
The Airpeak system enhances creativity for a seamless drone experience, Airpeak S1 is supported by a remote controller, an app and cloud service which work together to create a high-performance aircraft system. From piloting and camera work to flight programming and data management, the Airpeak system is comprehensive and easy to use.
Optimized Design for Exceptional Performance
Sensing Technology for Flight Stability
Versatile Camera and Lens Compatibility
Intuitive Control
Automated Flight for Workflow Efficiency
Optimized Design for Exceptional Performance
Powerful Flight Performance
With a max speed of 55.9mph (25m/s), maximum angular velocity of 180 Degree /s and attitude angle up to 55 Degree , Airpeak S1 offers incredible creative freedom for dynamic professional aerial imagery.
Dedicated Propulsion Device and Flight Controller
Airpeak S1's propulsion system is designed by Sony engineers to achieve maximum flight performance and energy efficiency. The powerful yet lightweight brushless motor optimizes 17-inch propellers for maximum power and minimum energy loss, and the Electric Speed Controller (ESC) is carefully designed to regulate the whole system for peak efficiency. By integrating this propulsion system to the information from the sensors, it realizes increased stability and highly responsive flight control.
Stable Flight in High Winds
The propellers, motor and ESC that make up the flight propulsion system, combined with the dedicated remote controller have achieved optimal wind resistance. Airpeak S1 can withstand wind speeds as high as 20m/s, and can maintain stable flight in erratic upper-level winds and strong low-level canyon and coastal winds.
Max 22 Minute Flight Time (Without Payload)
Airpeak S1 has a maximum flight time of 22 minutes without a payload, and can still maintain flight for up to 12 minutes when fitted with a heavy payload like the a7S III and FE 24mm F1.4 GM. The hot-swappable battery allows for power supply exchange without powering down the aircraft for minimal downtime.
Retractable landing gear for unobstructed camera field of view
Airpeak S1 is fitted with a landing gear with open/close legs in-flight, allowing the gimbal to pan without worrying about them appearing into images.
Easily Detachable Propellers
The propellors are light, compact, and exceptionally durable, and the quick release mechanism makes for easy attachment and removal.
Sensing Technology for Flight Stability
High Performance Sensors for Precise Positioning
Equipped with Sony's image sensor 5-way stereo cameras (front, back, left, right, down), visual information is fed to the high-speed Vision Sensing Processor and proprietary algorithm. By integrating this information to IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), compass, barometric pressure, and infrared range sensors, Airpeak S1 perceive its real-time location and positioning with incredible precision, even in enclosed spaces or when out of range of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), to ensure a stable flight.
Increased Stability in Low-Level Flight
High-precision sensors and the refined flight algorithm enable Airpeak S1 to accurately determine its environment, location, and positioning and keep low-level flight shake to a minimum. Airpeak S1 can fly smoothly and safely through wooded and obstacle heavy areas, for steady shooting even in the most demanding close ups.
Multi-Directional Sensing for Obstacle Avoidance
Airpeak S1 combines five directional stereo cameras with infrared range sensor for optimal obstacle avoidance. The automatic deceleration and braking functions allow it to intuitively respond to the environment and its situation. The "obstacle brake function" can be enabled in both automated and manual modes, and there is the option to restrict sensing to a specific direction, or disable the braking function altogether.
Versatile Camera and Lens Compatibility
The Smallest Drone in its Class for Alpha mirrorless cameras
With a custom-designed powerful motor and compact frame, Airpeak S1 is capable of carrying a camera system (including gimbal) of up to 5.5lbs (2.5 kg). Fully compatible with Alpha series full-frame mirrorless cameras, Airpeak S1 opens up the possibilities for professional creators.
Diverse Options for Cameras and Lenses
Airpeak S1 is compatible with a huge range of cameras and lenses, allowing creators to choose the perfect setup for their needs. Powerful low-light cameras like the a7S series or FX3 leverage high sensitivity with stability to capture vivid images even in dark conditions. High-resolution cameras like the a7R series can achieve aerial imagery of outstanding quality, with huge potential for commercial and industrial applications. a9 series will capture high quality images with ultimately low distortion, and a 1 can shoot in the air with 8K quality. For lenses, Airpeak S1 is compatible with select E-mount prime lenses. You can match the best model for your application.
Exclusively made Gremsy Gimbals
As a dedicated accessory for Airpeak S1, there is Gremsy gimbal "T3 for Airpeak" that is compatible with Alpha series cameras. Once the gimbal is connected, the quick release mechanism allows for easy attachment. And the temperature controlled IMU allows for accurate control of the gimbal in any temperature.
Intuitive Control
Remote Controller with Optimal Functionality
Developed for professionals in mind, the remote controller combines superior functionality with a comfortable design. It allows for a live view during the flight and real-time control over the aircraft and gimbal. There are four customizable buttons, and the aircraft, camera, and gimbal buttons can be changed according to requirements. It is also designed to fit comfortably in the hand. The grip is shaped for secure handling, and the control stick is based on a design by the Futaba Corporation, popular with drone pilots. The holder allows for a maximum of 178.5 mm making it compatible with smartphones and tablets. It also has an HDMI port for connecting to an external screen.
Aircraft and Equipment Management with "Airpeak Flight" app
"Airpeak Flight" is a mobile app for comprehensive monitoring and management of the aircraft, remote controller, camera, and gimbal. From checking flight distance and battery usage, to adjusting camera settings, the app is designed to optimize the flight experience. Airpeak Flight is fully compatible with Alpha full-frame mirrorless cameras, allowing for camera adjustments during flight. "Airpeak Flight" can be used both with manual and automated flight modes. During the "Mission Flight mode", the app can be used to confirm the route, execute the mission, check the status of the aircraft, and monitor the equipment.
Dual Operation Mode for Independent Control of Aircraft and Gimbal/Camera
The "Dual Operation Mode" allows two operators to control the aircraft and gimbal/camera separately, allowing for more precision control in complex shooting conditions. By placing the FPV camera on the nose of the aircraft, the pilot can control FPV tilt and check the flight direction and angle, while the camera operator continues capturing images. In addition, when two operators are using the remote controllers, the control stick and buttons will automatically be assigned to the pilot and camera operator accordingly.Optional Flight Modes for Diverse Needs
Airpeak S1 is equipped with several different flight modes to make flying and creating even easier. The default Velocity Mode was developed in-house. This mode differs from a regular Position Mode by reducing the effects of wind and external influences on hovering, turning and manoeuvring, making it easier to recreate flight routes with more accuracy. By enabling "On Course Function", the pilot can accomplish accurate and flawless recreation of a circular flight path with ease. Each flight mode allows for customization of maximum speeds, angles, acceleration rates and other parameters. Whether for speed and power, or smooth and steady, pilots will be able to find the flight mode to support optimal performance. Airpeak S1 also comes with Standard Mode which all sensors including obstacle detection is turned on as default for a safe and stable flight experience.
Automated Flight Missions for Workflow Efficiency
Flight and Equipment Organization with "Airpeak Base"
"Airpeak Base" is a web app used to efficiently organize drone projects, from flight planning and flight log organization, to reviewing equipment status and usage. Use the app to plan a detailed flight route, download flight logs from the aircraft to view data on past flights, or create a new flight plan from past flight logs. "Airpeak Base" can also be used to view the equipment status and usage logs, and set up error warnings and maintenance reminders, to reduce the risk of unexpected problems on site. Separate accounts can be set up for managing the aircraft ensuring better security.
Airpeak is prohibited from being used for military use. For details of prohibited activities see: https://electronics.sony.com/airpeak/terms/eula