How We Calculate Performance Scores
Our radar charts provide an objective, data-driven comparison of drone performance across 7 key metrics. All scores are normalized on a 0-10 scale based on real-world data from our database.
Overview
Understanding our scoring methodology
Each drone in our database is evaluated across 7 performance metrics, each scored from 0 to 10. These scores are calculated dynamically based on the actual range of values in our database, ensuring fair comparisons as new drones are added.
Scores are normalized, meaning a score of 10 doesn't mean "perfect" - it means "best in our current database." Similarly, a score of 0 means "lowest in our current database," not "unusable."
The 7 Performance Metrics
What each metric measures and how it's calculated
1. Image Quality
Evaluates the camera's imaging capabilities based on sensor size and photo resolution.
Calculation:
- Sensor size score (0-5 points): Larger sensors = higher score
- Photo resolution score (0-5 points): Higher megapixels = higher score
- Combined and normalized to 0-10 scale
2. Flight Time
Measures the maximum flight time in minutes on a single battery charge.
Calculation:
- Normalized based on the range of flight times in our database
- Example: If drones range from 15-46 minutes, a 30-minute drone scores ~6.5/10
3. Portability
Assesses how easy the drone is to carry and transport, primarily based on weight.
Calculation:
- Inverted scale: Lighter drones = higher score
- Normalized based on weight range in our database
- Considers both weight and folded dimensions when available
4. Obstacle/Safety
Evaluates the drone's obstacle avoidance and safety features.
Calculation:
- Binary base: Obstacle avoidance system = 10, No system = 2
- Future: Will consider sensing coverage (front, back, sides, up, down)
5. Speed
Measures the maximum horizontal speed in Sport/Manual mode (km/h).
Calculation:
- Extracted from specifications (Sport Mode or Manual Mode speed)
- Normalized based on speed range in our database (typically 30-100 km/h)
- Higher speed = higher score
6. Range
Indicates the maximum flight distance in meters before losing signal or battery.
Calculation:
- Normalized based on range values in our database (typically 4-20 km)
- Higher range = higher score
7. Value
Evaluates the price-to-features ratio, considering both cost and capabilities.
Calculation:
- Inverted scale: Lower price = higher score
- Normalized based on price range in our database
- Future: Will factor in feature count and capabilities
Dynamic Normalization
How we ensure fair comparisons
Our scoring system uses dynamic normalization, which means:
- Scores are recalculated based on the actual min/max values in our database
- When a new drone is added that exceeds current limits, scores adjust automatically
- This ensures fair comparisons even as drone technology improves
Example:
If the fastest drone in our database is 100 km/h, it scores 10/10 for Speed. If we add a drone that goes 120 km/h, the new drone scores 10/10, and the previous "fastest" drone's score adjusts to ~8.3/10.
Data Sources
Where we get our information
All performance data comes from:
- Official manufacturer specifications
- Technical manuals and documentation
- Standardized JSON specifications in our database
- Verified product listings and reviews
We prioritize official specifications over third-party claims. When data conflicts, we use the most conservative (lowest) values to ensure accuracy.
Keeping Scores Current
How often scores are updated
Scores are recalculated:
- When new drones are added to our database
- When specification data is updated or corrected
- Automatically as part of our data synchronization process
This ensures that comparisons remain accurate and up-to-date as the drone market evolves.
Ready to Compare Drones?
Use our interactive radar charts to find the perfect drone for your needs.