Adorama is a camera and video equipment retailer that also stocks drones and drone accessories

Adorama operates as a physical retail location in New York City and an online store selling photography, video, and drone equipment. The company carries drone models from manufacturers like DJI, Auterion, and others, alongside batteries, propellers, cases, and other accessories. Adorama also runs a rental program where you can rent drones by the day, week, or month rather than buying.

If you are shopping for a drone, Adorama functions like any other electronics retailer — you browse inventory, compare prices, and make a purchase. If you want to test a drone before committing to a purchase, or need one for a short project, the rental option lets you pay a temporary fee instead of the full retail price. The rental program requires a deposit and has damage policies you should read before booking.

Adorama also publishes educational content about drones and photography on its website and YouTube channel, though this content is separate from the retail and rental services.

Key Takeaways

  • Adorama sells new drones, used drones, and drone accessories through its website and New York City store location.
  • The rental program lets you rent drones for periods ranging from one day to several weeks at rates lower than purchase price.
  • Rentals require a deposit and hold you responsible for damage beyond normal wear, so review the damage policy before booking.
  • Adorama publishes free educational videos and guides about drone operation and photography, available on its website and YouTube channel.

How Adorama's drone rental program works

To rent a drone from Adorama, you visit the rental section of their website, select the drone model and rental period you need, and complete a booking. You will need to provide a credit card for the deposit, which Adorama holds but does not charge unless damage occurs. The rental fee itself is charged upfront.

You pick up the drone at Adorama's New York City location or arrange shipping to your address, depending on the rental terms. When the rental period ends, you return the drone in the same condition it arrived, minus normal wear. If the drone is damaged, Adorama assesses the damage and may charge part or all of the deposit to cover repair or replacement costs.

Rental periods vary by drone model and availability. Some drones rent for as little as one day, while others have minimum weekly or monthly terms. Prices change based on demand and the specific model, so checking the website directly gives you current rates for the drone and dates you need.

New and used drone inventory at Adorama

Adorama stocks both new drones still in manufacturer packaging and used drones that have been returned, traded in, or refurbished. New drones come with the manufacturer's warranty. Used drones are typically sold as-is, though Adorama may offer a limited return window depending on the item's condition rating.

The website lists the condition of used drones — usually labeled as "Like New," "Excellent," "Good," or "Fair" — along with a description of any visible wear or missing components. You can filter inventory by price, brand, and condition to narrow your search. Stock changes frequently, so a drone you see today may sell out before you purchase.

Drone accessories and replacement parts

Beyond complete drones, Adorama carries batteries, propellers, charging hubs, carrying cases, ND filters, landing pads, and other accessories for popular drone models. Many of these items are sold individually or in bundles. Prices and availability vary by product and manufacturer.

If you own a drone from another retailer, you can often find compatible parts at Adorama, though you should verify compatibility before purchasing. The product pages typically list which drone models each accessory fits.

Adorama's educational content and resources

Adorama publishes free guides, video tutorials, and articles about drone operation, photography techniques, and equipment reviews on its website and YouTube channel. This content covers topics like drone safety, camera settings, post-processing, and comparisons between drone models. The educational material is separate from the retail and rental services and does not require a purchase or account to view.

The YouTube channel includes unboxing videos, flight demonstrations, and interviews with drone pilots and photographers. These resources can help you understand how a drone works before you rent or buy one.

Shipping, returns, and customer service

Adorama ships drones and accessories to addresses across the United States and internationally, with shipping costs calculated at checkout. Delivery times depend on your location and the item's availability. You can track your order through the website using a tracking number sent to your email.

Return policies differ between new and used items. New drones typically have a return window of 30 days from purchase, though some items may have shorter windows. Used drones are often sold as-is with limited or no return options. Rental drones have their own damage and return policies separate from retail purchases.

Adorama offers customer service through phone, email, and live chat on its website. You can contact them with questions about product compatibility, rental terms, or order status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a drone for just one day?

Yes, Adorama offers one-day rental periods for many drone models, though availability and pricing vary by model. Check the rental section of the website for the specific drone you want and the dates you need to see current one-day rates and availability.

What happens if I damage a rental drone?

Adorama charges damage costs against your deposit. Minor wear from normal use is not charged, but cracks, water damage, lost propellers, or other damage beyond normal wear will result in a charge. Review the damage policy on the rental page before booking to understand what is covered.

Does Adorama sell used drones?

Yes, Adorama sells used drones alongside new ones. Used drones are rated by condition and listed with descriptions of any wear or missing parts. Return policies for used drones are more limited than for new ones, so read the return terms before purchasing.

Can I return a drone I bought if I change my mind?

New drones typically have a 30-day return window from the date of purchase. Used drones have more limited return options and may be sold as-is. Check the product page or contact customer service to confirm the return policy for the specific drone you are considering.

Where is Adorama located?

Adorama has a physical store in New York City where you can pick up rentals or browse equipment in person. You can also shop online and have items shipped to your address or pick them up at the store if local delivery is an option.