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Last Updated on: 22nd August 2023, 07:24 pm

If you’re wondering whether or not you can use the Tello drone without Wi-Fi, then the answer is no – in my opinion. The Ryze DJI Tello drone is a small quadcopter; it doesn’t have an advanced connectivity feature like top-notch drones like Mavic and Spark.
Since I bought the Tello drone in 2019, tested it personally, and analyzed up closed, I can tell you a few things with some confidence. Even though I don’t consider myself an expert on tech gadgets, I only talk about gadgets that I use or test out.
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As far as the Ryze Tello drone connectivity with Wi-Fi is concerned, some of you might think it requires your home Wi-Fi to fly. It surely isn’t the case. Let me elaborate on this topic.
The Ryze Tello drone has a Wi-Fi feature that allows users to connect mobile devices with the Tello drone. To enable connectivity, one has to turn on the Wi-Fi on the mobile and try to connect with the Wi-Fi of the Ryze Tello drone. Once the Ryze Tello drone has been connected to the mobile device via its Wi-Fi, you’re all set to fly this drone.
So it’s safe to say that the Ryze Tello drone doesn’t require your home or office Wi-Fi to fly or connect to your device.
Let’s explore the different control options available, the Tello app, and the Wi-Fi connection.
Ryze Tello Drone
Mini Drone Quadcopter
- 5MP Camera
- HD 720 Video
- 13min Flight Time
- Ultracompact size
- 1100mAh LiPo Battery
Tello Drone Control Options
The Tello drone can be controlled using a variety of options. The most common way to control the drone is through the Tello app, which connects to the drone via Wi-Fi.
However, there are alternative control options available, such as using a remote controller that has a wireless network. This allows you to fly the drone without the need for Wi-Fi.
Tello App and Wi-Fi Connection
The Tello app is the primary way to control the Tello drone, and it requires a Wi-Fi connection between your phone or tablet and the drone.
The app allows you to access the drone’s features, such as the camera, and control its movements. Without Wi-Fi, you won’t be able to use the app to control the drone.
It’s important to keep your Tello drone’s firmware up to date to ensure that it’s functioning properly and to access new features.
To update the firmware, you’ll need to connect the drone to the Tello app via Wi-Fi. Once connected, you can check for and download any available updates.
How to Connect and Fly Tello Drone
If you’re wondering whether you can fly your Tello drone, then allow me to guide you on this topic.
Here are two ways to do it:
Bluetooth Remote Controller
The Tello drone has a Bluetooth remote control feature that you can use to fly it. The controller has a wireless network that connects with your Bluetooth remote controller and helps you control your Tello drone via this wireless Bluetooth controller.
All you need is to get a supported Bluetooth remote controller connected to the Tello app and you’re good to go. Check out the GameSir T1d controller or 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth controller for flying this drone.
Here are the steps to fly your Tello drone with the remote controller:
- Turn on the Tello drone and the Bluetooth remote controller.
- Connect your smartphone to the remote controller’s Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Tello app on your smartphone.
- Press the Takeoff button on the app.
- Use the remote controller to fly the drone.
Manual Flight Mode (Using Smartphone)
Another way to fly your Tello drone without Wi-Fi is to use manual flight mode. In this mode, you’ll need to control the drone using the on-screen joystick on the Tello app.
Here’s how to do it:
- Turn on the Tello drone and connect your smartphone to the drone’s Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Tello app on your smartphone.
- Tap the Settings icon on the app.
- Tap the Manual Flight Mode option.
- Tap the Takeoff button to make the drone hover in place.
- Use the on-screen joystick to fly the drone.
Keep in mind that flying the Tello drone without Wi-Fi has its limitations. For example, you won’t be able to use features that require an internet connection, such as the ability to download photos or videos from the drone to your smartphone. Additionally, you won’t be able to use the Scratch programming feature without Wi-Fi.
Overall, flying your Tello drone without Wi-Fi is a great option for beginners or for those who want to fly the drone in areas without Wi-Fi access. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully and fly safely.
DJI Tello Drone Features
The Tello drone is a popular and affordable drone that is designed for beginners and hobbyists. It is a lightweight and compact drone that is easy to use and comes with a range of features that make it a great choice for anyone who is looking for a fun and easy-to-use drone.
Camera and Video Stream
The Tello drone comes with a 720p camera that is capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos. The camera is mounted on the front of the drone and can be used to capture stunning aerial footage. The Tello drone also comes with a live video stream feature that allows you to see what the drone sees in real-time.
Compact and User-Friendly Design
One of the most notable features of the Tello drone is its compact and user-friendly design. The drone is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and is easy to operate. The Tello drone also comes with a range of LED lights that make it easy to see and operate in low-light conditions.
Flight Time and Battery Life
The Tello drone has a flight time of up to 13 minutes on a fully charged battery. The drone comes with a USB cable that can be used to charge the battery. The Tello drone also comes with a range of features that help to extend the battery life, including an autonomous flight mode and a range of power-saving settings.
Tello Drone Extra Spare Propellers
The Tello drone comes with a set of extra spare propellers that can be used to replace damaged or worn-out propellers. The spare propellers are easy to install and can help to extend the life of your drone.
Height and Distance
The Tello drone has a maximum flight distance of 100 meters and a maximum height of 30 meters. The drone also comes with a range of features that allow you to track and follow the drone, including a “follow me” mode and a range of tracking settings. The Tello drone also comes with a range of limitations that help to ensure that the drone stays within a safe operating range.
Overall, the Tello drone is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a fun and easy-to-use drone. The drone is compact, user-friendly, and comes with a range of features that make it a great choice for beginners and hobbyists. Whether you are looking to capture stunning aerial footage or just have some fun flying a drone, the Tello drone is worth considering.

Hassaan is a blogger and YouTuber. He loves to make YouTube videos, discover new video ideas, and try out new camera gear equipment. If he isn’t making videos or writing camera gear articles, then he is probably playing with his dog.