Buying a DJI drone in the US in late 2026: what's legal, what's left, what it costs

Drone threads used to ask “which DJI should I buy?” Now they ask “can I still buy one?” The answer is yes, with conditions, and the conditions matter more than the spec sheet.

What actually changed

On December 22, 2025, the FCC updated its Covered List to include uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and UAS critical components produced in a foreign country. The FCC’s FAQ spells out what that does and doesn’t do (FCC; the FCC’s page blocked my reader on October 7, so this summary rests on my first reading and on GoMyReview’s matching account):

Equipment on the Covered List can’t get new FCC equipment authorisation. Most electronic devices need that authorisation before they can be imported, marketed or sold in the US. So new models are blocked.
The update does not prohibit the import, sale or use of existing models the FCC previously authorised.
It doesn’t restrict continued use of devices you’ve already bought.
Covered drones can keep receiving basic software and firmware updates under a waiver.

The FCC rule is about where drones are produced, not about DJI by name. DJI is affected because its drones are made abroad. Autel, another popular brand, is in the same position, so it isn’t a workaround (GoMyReview).

Which DJI drones are still on sale

There’s no official list of US stock. GoMyReview’s October 1 summary of reporting lists these as legal to sell because they were approved before the cut-off: the Mavic 4 Pro, Mini 5 Pro and Air 3S, plus limited stock of the Mini 4 Pro, Mavic 3 Pro and Avata 2, and entry models such as the Neo, Neo 2 and Flip (GoMyReview). The same source reports that DJI’s own US store has often shown drones as out of stock, and that most units now come through third-party sellers. Some of those sales, it notes, DJI says it hasn’t authorised.

New 2026 DJI models aren’t coming. DJI told the Ninth Circuit that about 25 products planned for 2026 are stuck, according to GoMyReview’s summary of the case.

What the Mini 5 Pro cost in early October

The Mini 5 Pro is the model most people ask about, because it’s a sub-250g drone with a serious camera.

Seller	Bundle	Dated price	Note
DJIUSA (authorised reseller)	Fly More Combo, DJI RC 2	$1,099 regular, in stock Oct 7	DJIUSA. An authorised reseller, not DJI’s own store.
B&H Photo	Mini 5 Pro listing	$1,099, in stock, Oct 5; not re-read Oct 7	B&H
Micro Center	Fly More Combo, RC 2	$989.99 (was $1,099.99), Oct 5; not re-read Oct 7	Micro Center. In-store pickup only, stock varies by store.

Spec highlights, from DJI’s own spec page: a 1-inch 50MP sensor, 4K at up to 120fps video, a rated 36-minute flight time (52 with the Plus battery), 20km rated range, omnidirectional vision sensing plus forward LiDAR, and a weight of 249.9g (DJI). Those are manufacturer ratings. Rated flight time is measured in ideal conditions, and real flights are shorter.

What owners flag

DJI Care Refresh. An owner review on B&H’s Mini 5 Pro listing (September 23, 2026) said “DJI Care Refresh is no longer available in the US” (B&H; not re-read on October 7). That’s one owner’s report, not a DJI statement, but it fits GoMyReview’s note about repair delays and parts shortages. Treat accidental-damage cover as uncertain, and fly accordingly.
Warranty region. GoMyReview advises asking the seller in writing whether the warranty is valid in the US, because DJI warranties can be region-locked.
Scam listings. With official stock thin, marketplace listings carry more risk. Prefer a known camera store or local shop.

A five-step pre-purchase check

Confirm the model was authorised before December 22, 2025. GoMyReview notes DJI FCC IDs start with SS3. Match the ID on the listing or box.
Buy from a seller you can find again. A camera store, a big-box retailer or an authorised reseller, not an anonymous marketplace account.
Get the warranty answer in writing. Ask specifically about US coverage and repair turnaround.
Keep the invoice and serial number. You’ll need both for any warranty or repair claim.
Don’t import a model that never got US approval. The FCC’s FAQ says covered UAS that haven’t received authorisation generally can’t be operated here, and GoMyReview notes customs can seize them.

FAA basics still apply

None of the FCC changes touch the FAA rules for flying. Recreational pilots still need to register drones of 250g or more, use Remote ID where required, and pass the TRUST test, as GoMyReview summarises. Sub-250g models like the Mini line are popular partly because they avoid registration for recreational use, but check the FAA’s current rules for your situation and your airspace before every flight.

Should you buy now or wait?

If you want a DJI and one of the authorised models fits your needs, the case for buying sooner is simple: stock only shrinks, and no new models are coming. The case for caution is the uncertain warranty and repair picture.

Two dates to watch, both from GoMyReview’s case summary:

From October 13, 2026, the FCC will reportedly reject new applications for any drone containing DJI or Autel circuit boards, even if the drone is built in the US.
DJI’s opening brief in its Ninth Circuit petition is due November 2, 2026. There’s no ruling on the merits yet, and a court case could take months.

If you need a drone for government, public-safety or certain business work that requires US-made or NDAA-compliant equipment, a DJI isn’t the right purchase. GoMyReview lists US-made options such as the Skydio X10 and Parrot ANAFI USA for that kind of work.

The saraf’s verdict

For hobby and creator flying, an FCC-authorised DJI from a reputable US seller is still a legal, sensible purchase. The Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo at about $1,099 (or $989.99 if your local Micro Center has it) is the default. Just pay attention to who you buy from, and assume support will be slower than it used to be. Gold is still gold, but now you also have to check the hallmark.