How much does a rice-sowing drone cost and which model is best?

How much should a rice-sowing drone reasonably cost?

In recent years, rice-sowing drones have become increasingly common in Vietnam, especially in the Mekong Delta and Central regions. However, the question “how much does a rice-sowing drone cost?” remains complex due to a wide price range-from tens to hundreds of millions of dong. In a time of rising production costs, making the right investment at the right scale is critical.

These drones are now a vital part of smart mechanized farming, helping save seeds, reduce labor, and improve productivity. Yet many buyers fail to accurately assess the real value of each model, leading to poor investment choices. Understanding each price segment and choosing the right model helps optimize cost and achieve faster returns.

Key factors affecting rice-sowing drone prices

A rice-sowing drone is not just a flying machine-it’s a system combining GPS, auto-navigation, spreading sensors, payload capacity, and high-capacity lithium batteries. Its price varies mainly based on the following factors:

Payload capacity and seed volume

Common payloads range from 10–25 kg. The higher the payload, the stronger the battery, motor, and frame-thus the higher the cost.

• 10 kg: suitable for <5 ha → ₫50–80 million
• 20–25 kg: for larger farms or service providers → ₫120–200 million

Navigation and automation technology

Models with GPS RTK, pre-programmed mapping, and obstacle-avoidance sensors cost more than semi-automatic versions. The more advanced the tech, the higher the sowing precision and efficiency.

Brand and origin

• Chinese brands like DJI, TTA, Jifei: ₫60–200 million depending on configuration
• Local Vietnamese drones: cheaper but with limited features
• Locally assembled units with imported parts: ₫45–80 million, 6–12-month warranty

Wing type: fixed-wing vs. rotary (quadcopter)

• Rotary: more common, flexible, easier to control, higher cost
• Fixed-wing: less popular, requires larger open areas

Accessories and warranty

• Extra cost for backup batteries, fast chargers, or external controllers
• Good warranty and on-site support can raise the price but are worth it for beginners

Current price list of popular DJI rice-sowing drones

Price tiers:

• Mid-range to high-end models: ₫117–239 million (main unit only)
• Full professional sets: ₫330–460 million depending on accessories

You can also find locally assembled or used drones under ₫100 million, but check quality, warranty, and long-term reliability carefully before buying.

Pros and cons by price segment

≤ ₫130 million (T25P, T25)

• ✅ Affordable, good for <5 ha
• ❌ Limited coverage, basic automation

₫130–200 million (T50, T70P, T100)

• ✅ Larger payload (40–100 L), AI and radar-equipped
• ❌ Higher maintenance, requires wide flight area

≥ ₫200 million (T20P, T30, T40)

• ✅ Equipped with LiDAR, 360° radar, advanced mapping
• ❌ Requires skilled operators, depends on usage frequency

Benefits of using rice-sowing drones

• Saves labor and time – reduces 2–3 workers per sowing session
• Reduces seed and chemical use by 20–30%
• Ensures long-term cost efficiency and faster ROI in large-scale production

Choosing the right model by budget and scale

Top 3 best-selling rice-sowing drones

ROI insight (from DJI Đại Lợi dealership):

• Average cost per hectare: ₫90,000–150,000 per sowing
• Saves 2–3 workers and 20–30% of seeds → ~₫500,000 saved per hectare per round
• For 200 ha, annual savings reach ₫100–150 million → full payback in 1–2 crop seasons

Best time to buy a rice-sowing drone

Buy before main seasons (Winter–Spring or Summer–Autumn) to start operating immediately and recoup costs faster.
Avoid buying mid-season or without clear usage plans. Ideally, invest 30–45 days before sowing to train, calibrate, and test the drone properly.

In summary, rice-sowing drones range from ₫80 million to ₫250 million, depending on payload, brand, and features. Models like the DJI T25P and T50 strike the best balance between cost and performance-making them the top choices for Vietnamese farmers preparing for the upcoming crop season.

FAQs

Should I buy a used rice-sowing drone?

Yes, if you carefully check the battery, propellers, controller, and purchase record. Expect 30–40% cheaper than new.

Do I need to register my drone?

Yes, if it operates on high-frequency control (>2.4 GHz) or covers large areas. Notify local authorities if flying over wide zones.

Can it fly in the rain?

No. Most models are safe only in dry weather with winds under level 4.

Minimum area for economic efficiency?

At least 2 ha to ensure cost-effectiveness.

Can it also spread fertilizer or spray pesticides?

Yes. Many modern drones support 3-in-1 functions (sowing, spraying, spreading) with proper nozzle and mode adjustments.