It is well worth the money?
Yes, certainly. It’s lower than the cost of putting a reasonable 450 helicopter in the air and I think the second-hand price will probably be decent in case I get tired. I don’t regret the cost per smile in my opinion.
Inadequate range on wi-fi?
My Wifi has not been cut off yet, so it seems better than advertised so far.
Is the camera slow?
From time to time yes. It is often fast and smooth and occasionally stutters. Not suitable for FPV, add your camera system for that. However, streaming video is fun and that’s just what this bird is focusing on.
Is it easier to fly without a camera but looking at it?
Yes, I’m not sure if it’s me and my own helicopter flying habits, but I’m mostly looking at the AR Drone itself, looking at the screen only if I remember it has video.
Better with a 2.4 GHz system?
It can be amazing to offer the option to fly with a 2.4 transmitter. It may still feel strange when controlling by tilting the iPad.
Decent in the wind flow?
Much better than initially expected. It’s a bit difficult, but it seems to hold up well overall.
Better hanging than moving?
Best floating where there is a clear soil texture. See those promo videos with a heavily patterned floor? I think it is to get the most effective holding effect from the downward facing camera. It is not that good on grass, as it travels about a foot or so. The forward flight seems to be really easy, much better on both than I expected.
Fragile?
Well yes and no. It will break if you hit a wall. It’s not that difficult, but it’s a more solid feeling than I feared. I guess it will hold up a lot better than your regular little RTF helicopter. Let’s wait and see how it holds up.