Farms use drones in two ways: mapping crop health and spraying or spreading. For mapping, the best choice is the DJI Mavic 3 Multispectral, which builds NDVI and other vegetation maps so you only treat what needs it. For spraying, the Agras T25 suits small and medium fields, the Agras T50 is the all-round workhorse for large acreage, and the Agras T100 carries the most. Spraying requires FAA and state certification beyond a normal drone license.
Our picks
| Drone | Best for | Key specs (DJI) |
|---|---|---|
| Mavic 3 Multispectral | Crop-health maps, scouting | 20 MP RGB + 4 multispectral bands, RTK, 43 min |
| Agras T20P | Small farms, orchards, vineyards | 20 L spray, 35 L spread, portable for one person |
| Agras T25 | Small and medium fields | 20 L spray, 4 to 7 m swath, about 30 acres/h in DJI's field test |
| Agras T50 | Large acreage | 40 L spray, 75 L spread, 4 to 11 m swath, about 52 acres/h in DJI's field test |
| Agras T100 | Very large operations | 100 L spray, 150 L spread, 5 to 13 m swath, up to 40 L/min |
All are sold by quote, because batteries, chargers and generators make up a large part of a working kit.
Mapping: DJI Mavic 3 Multispectral
The Mavic 3M photographs fields in four narrow bands (green, red, red edge and near-infrared) plus a 4/3 RGB camera. A sunlight sensor on top keeps readings consistent as clouds pass, and an RTK module is included for accurate map positions. Software turns the images into NDVI, NDRE and GNDVI maps that show stressed, thin or bare areas, often before you'd notice them from the ground.
Use it to:
- Scout large fields quickly
- Build prescription maps for variable-rate spraying or seeding
- Check drainage, emergence and stand counts
- Document crop damage for insurance
Regular camera drones can't do this, because they don't record calibrated near-infrared. See what is NDVI.
Spraying: which Agras?
Agras T25. Compact enough for one crew to move between small fields. DJI rates it at 12 ha (about 30 acres) per hour at 15 L/ha in open fields.
Agras T50. Double the spray tank, a wider swath and higher spreading capacity. DJI rates it at 21 ha (about 52 acres) per hour in the same field test, and about 4 ha per hour in orchards at higher doses.
Agras T100. The largest, with a 100 L tank and a lifting payload of up to 100 kg. Best for big operations with the crew and power to support it.
Real coverage depends on dose, swath, field shape, refill speed and how fast you can charge batteries. See spray drone acres per hour.
Licensing for spray drones
Spraying is the most regulated drone work in the US. You typically need:
- A Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- An FAA Part 137 agricultural aircraft operator certificate
- A Section 44807 exemption, since loaded spray drones weigh 55 lb or more (the T25 is 52 kg spraying, the T50 92 kg)
- A state pesticide applicator license for applying pesticides for hire
Spraying your own fields still involves the FAA requirements. Full steps in spray drone license.
2026 buying notes
- Tariffs. Since September 3, 2026, imported drones carry a Section 232 tariff, which affects spray drone prices.
- FCC proposal. In July 2026 the FCC proposed stopping further import and sale of foreign spray drones and other "military-grade" categories. It hadn't been adopted as of October 2026 and wouldn't affect drones already owned.
- Power. Plan generators and batteries for all-day work.
What to check before buying
- Acres per season, crop types and typical application rates
- Field sizes and how far you travel between them
- Crew size for mixing, refilling and battery changes
- Whether you'll offer custom application to neighbors
- Financing and insurance.
Quick answers
Can one drone map and spray? Not well. Use the Mavic 3M to map and an Agras to apply.
Is spraying with drones cheaper than crop dusting? It depends on acreage and field shape.
Tell us your acreage and crops on our contact page, or browse agriculture drones.
Related guides
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