Best drone with thermal camera for inspections – long flight time under $5500

Recommendation

This DJI Mavic 3 Thermal Drone Universal Edition directly matches your criteria: it’s a DJI-branded drone with an integrated thermal camera and its listed price of $5,498.00 sits comfortably within your $6,000 budget, so it meets both brand and budget requirements and gives you a sense of purchase security. Why this choice is strong: DJI is a market leader in reliable flight control, stabilization and support, and the “Mavic 3 Thermal” product name indicates a ready-built aerial platform with thermal imaging capability—ideal for inspections, search & rescue, building surveys, and other thermal tasks. The listing also shows a 5/5 rating (albeit from one reviewer), which suggests good satisfaction for buyers so far. Its Universal Edition status typically means broader compatibility for international operations and accessories. Budget fit: At $5,498 you are about $502 under your $6,000 limit, leaving room for essential extras such as spare batteries, ND filters, additional propellers, or a carrying case without exceeding your budget. Things to consider: - Regulatory compliance: confirm local drone and thermal-sensor regulations, required registrations, and any pilot certification for commercial use. - Thermal limitations: thermal cameras have lower spatial resolution than visual cameras—they’re excellent for heat detection but may not replace close-up visual inspection for fine detail. - Flight time & spares: thermal missions can be battery-intensive; plan for extra batteries and charging solutions. - Weather & environment: thermal performance degrades in rain, heavy fog or high wind—schedule flights in suitable conditions. - Verify inclusions and support: check what accessories, warranty, and local service options are included before purchasing. This DJI Mavic 3 Thermal is a well-matched, budget-friendly option for professional thermal aerial work.