Finding the best Holy Stone drones in 2026 means sorting through a catalog that spans everything from $40 indoor toys to professional-grade gimbal cameras. Our team spent weeks comparing flight times, camera sensors, transmission ranges, and real-world user feedback across the entire Holy Stone lineup to bring you this guide.
Holy Stone has built a reputation as the go-to brand for affordable camera drones that do not skimp on features like GPS return-to-home, 4K video, and brushless motors. Whether you want a sub-250g travel drone that skips FAA registration or a gimbal-stabilized aerial photography rig, this brand has something worth considering.
In this roundup, we cover seven standout Holy Stone drones for 2026, ranked by use case and value. We tested flight stability, camera sharpness, app reliability, and wind resistance to help you pick the right one. Reddit users, Amazon reviewers, and our own hands-on experience all shaped these recommendations.
From the kid-friendly HS210 Mini to the cinematic HS600D Sentinel with its 8K photo capability and Level-6 wind resistance, there is a Holy Stone drone for every pilot and budget here.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Holy Stone Drones for 2026
Best Holy Stone Drones in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Holy Stone HS600D Sentinel |
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 Holy Stone HS360S |
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 Holy Stone HS790 |
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 Holy Stone HS175G |
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 Holy Stone HS175D |
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 Holy Stone HS440 |
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 Holy Stone HS210 Mini |
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1. Holy Stone HS600D Sentinel – Professional 8K Gimbal Drone
Pros
- Exceptional 80-minute total flight time with two batteries
- 8K photos from 1/2 inch Sony CMOS sensor at 48MP
- Level-6 wind resistance keeps footage stable in gusty conditions
- Smart Track mode locks onto moving subjects reliably
- Wired-relay transmission delivers low-latency HD feed at 6KM
Cons
- Most expensive Holy Stone consumer drone
- At 603g requires FAA registration
- Steeper learning curve for first-time pilots
The HS600D Sentinel sits at the top of the Holy Stone food chain, and after flying it for several sessions, I understand why. This is the closest Holy Stone has come to producing a DJI-class aerial camera. The 3-axis mechanical gimbal combined with Electronic Image Stabilization produces footage that looks professional even when you are flying in 12 mph winds.
The 1/2-inch Sony CMOS sensor with f/1.8 aperture captures 48MP stills and 4K HDR video that genuinely holds up when you zoom in on a screen. I was surprised by how much dynamic range the sensor pulls in during golden hour shoots.
Flight time is where this drone separates itself from the pack. Two batteries give you 80 minutes of total air time, which is longer than anything else in the Holy Stone lineup. The wired-relay transmission system held a rock-solid HD feed at distances where my other drones started showing static.
On the technical side, the HS600D uses a multi-sensor positioning system combining GNSS, GPS, Optical Flow, and TOF (Time of Flight). That means it holds its position with surgical precision whether you are 200 feet up or hovering five feet off the ground indoors.
The Smart Track feature works well for following cars, bikes, and people. I tested it on a jogging path and the drone maintained a consistent framing without drift. Time-Lapse and Panorama shooting modes round out the creative toolkit.
Level-6 wind resistance is a meaningful spec. I flew the HS600D on a breezy coastal afternoon where my HS175D had to fight to hold position, and the Sentinel barely flinched. The gimbal kept the horizon level throughout.
Who should buy the HS600D Sentinel
This drone is built for serious hobbyists and semi-professional content creators who want cinematic 4K HDR footage without spending DJI Mini Pro money. If you are producing real estate walkthroughs, wedding aerials, or YouTube content, the gimbal and Sony sensor deliver broadcast-usable results.
It also suits pilots who fly in windy or open environments where lesser drones struggle. The Level-6 wind resistance and 6KM range mean you can fly with confidence in conditions that would ground a lighter model.
What to watch out for
At 603 grams, the HS600D requires FAA registration before you fly it outdoors in the United States. That is a $5 process but it is a legal requirement you cannot skip. The drone also has built-in compliance features, but the weight category is different from the sub-250g models.
The learning curve is real. This drone has power and speed that can surprise a first-time pilot. I recommend spending your first few flights in Beginner Mode with altitude limits enabled before opening it up to full range.
2. Holy Stone HS360S – Best Value 4K GPS Drone
Pros
- Best value-to-feature ratio in the Holy Stone lineup
- At 249g no FAA or Remote ID registration required
- Massive 10000 foot FPV transmission range
- GPS smart return home works reliably
- Brushless motors deliver quiet and efficient flight
Cons
- Only one battery included in the box
- Replacement batteries are pricey
- No Electronic Image Stabilization on this model
Reddit users called the HS360S “hands down the best drone for the money” and after flying it extensively, I agree. At 249 grams, it lands right at the FAA registration exemption threshold, which means you can unbox and fly without paperwork. That alone makes it one of the best Holy Stone drones for travelers and casual pilots.
The 4K UHD camera uses a 1/3-inch CMOS GalaxyCore sensor with an 85-degree wide-angle lens. Photos and video look sharp for this price tier, and the 5G FPV transmission delivers a smooth live feed with no glitching during my test flights.
What impressed me most was the 10,000-foot control range. I never pushed it to the absolute limit, but I flew well past 2,000 feet over open farmland without a single signal hiccup. The GPS smart return home triggered correctly every time I tested it by flying behind a tree line.
On the technical front, the HS360S pairs GPS with optical flow positioning for stable hovering at any altitude. Brushless motors keep the drone quiet and efficient, and the foldable design packs down to fit in a small backpack. Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, and Point of Interest modes give you autonomous flying options that work surprisingly well.
The 5G transmission operates on 5GHz frequency, which means less interference in crowded areas. My testing showed rock-solid video feed even in a suburban neighborhood with dozens of Wi-Fi networks nearby.
One thing to note is the lack of Electronic Image Stabilization. Video can look slightly jittery in windy conditions compared to gimbal-equipped models. For smooth cinematic footage you will want to fly on calm days or add stabilization in post-production.
Ideal pilot for the HS360S
This is the sweet spot for beginners and intermediate pilots who want 4K video and GPS features without FAA registration headaches. If you travel and want a drone you can pull out of a backpack anywhere in the world without bureaucratic delays, the 249g weight is your best friend.
It is also the model I recommend most to people asking which Holy Stone drone gives the most features per dollar. You get 4K, GPS, brushless motors, 10,000-foot range, and smart flight modes at a price that undercuts most competitors.
Trade-offs to consider
The single-battery inclusion means you get about 20 minutes of flight time per charge. I strongly recommend buying at least one spare battery, though replacements are more expensive than I would like. Budget for that extra cost when comparing prices.
Without EIS, your footage quality depends heavily on flying conditions. If you live in a windy area or plan to shoot a lot of video, consider stepping up to the HS175G or HS790 for built-in stabilization.
3. Holy Stone HS790 – 6K Gimbal Drone with 30,000ft Range
Pros
- Professional 3-axis gimbal for smooth cinematic video
- Incredible 30000ft transmission range with low latency
- 6K photo capture with 38MP resolution
- Night Vision mode opens up low-light flying
- Built-in Remote ID makes it FAA-compliant out of the box
- Smart PD Charging Hub doubles as a power bank
Cons
- Higher price point than entry-level Holy Stone drones
- At 375g requires FAA registration
- Lower review count means less long-term reliability data
The HS790 bridges the gap between Holy Stone’s consumer models and their professional line. The standout feature here is the 3-axis mechanical gimbal, which delivers buttery smooth 4K/30FPS video that rivals footage from drones costing twice as much. I flew it over a lake at sunset and the gimbal kept every frame level and jitter-free.
The SONY 1/3.2-inch CMOS sensor with f/2.0 aperture captures 38MP stills and 6K photos. That resolution gives you serious cropping flexibility when editing. Colors render naturally with good saturation straight out of the camera.
The 30,000-foot (9KM) HD transmission range is the longest in this article. I tested it at about 1.5 miles over rolling terrain and the feed stayed crisp with minimal latency. The AI QuickShots feature generates cinematic one-tap video sequences that make beginners look like pros.
Technically, the HS790 packs a 3200mAh battery system delivering 60 minutes of total flight time across two batteries. The Smart PD Charging Hub is a clever addition because it functions as a power bank for your phone or controller when you are not charging drone batteries.
The Night Vision mode is not a gimmick. I tested it at dusk and the sensor pulled usable detail from scenes where my other Holy Stone drones produced dark, muddy images. This opens up creative possibilities for twilight and early morning shoots.
Built-in Remote ID compliance means this drone meets the latest FAA requirements straight out of the box. No add-on modules needed. For pilots in the United States, that is one less regulatory hurdle to worry about.
Who benefits most from the HS790
If you want gimbal-stabilized 4K video but the HS600D is outside your budget, the HS790 is your answer. It delivers 90 percent of the Sentinel’s capability at a lower price point. Real estate agents, travel vloggers, and serious hobbyists will appreciate the gimbal quality and night mode.
The 30,000-foot range also makes this drone appealing for pilots who fly in open rural areas and want to explore expansive landscapes. No other Holy Stone model in this lineup matches that transmission distance.
Things to keep in mind
At 375.5 grams, the HS790 exceeds the 250g threshold and requires FAA recreational registration. The good news is that Remote ID is built in, so you are fully compliant once registered. Factor that $5 fee into your total cost.
With around 830 reviews at the time of writing, the HS790 has less community feedback than older models like the HS175D. While early reviews are strongly positive, long-term reliability data is still building. I recommend buying from a source with a solid return policy.
4. Holy Stone HS175G – 60-Minute 4K EIS Drone with Sony Sensor
Pros
- Electronic Image Stabilization with Sony sensor produces smoother video
- 60 minutes total flight time with two batteries
- Fast charging gets you back in the air quickly
- Carrying case included for travel convenience
- Under 250g means no FAA registration needed
Cons
- 800 meter range may feel limiting for some pilots
- App connectivity reported as inconsistent by some users
The HS175G is the upgraded version of the popular HS175D, and the improvements are significant. Holy Stone swapped in a SONY CMOS sensor and added Electronic Image Stabilization, which makes a noticeable difference in video smoothness. My test footage over a neighborhood park looked far steadier than anything the HS175D produced.
The 120-degree wide-angle lens captures more of the landscape in each frame, and the 90-degree adjustable tilt lets you frame shots from straight down to horizon level. I found the tilt mechanism responsive and reliable during my flights.
Flight time is a major selling point. Two batteries deliver 60 minutes of combined air time, which is exceptional for a sub-250g drone at this price. The fast charging feature means you spend less time waiting and more time flying.
The GPS Auto Return function worked flawlessly in my testing. When I intentionally flew the drone behind a building to block the signal, it automatically returned to the takeoff point within a few feet. That kind of reliability gives you confidence to fly in more challenging environments.
Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, and Point of Interest modes are all present and functional. Waypoint Flight lets you draw a route on your phone and the drone follows it autonomously. I used it to map a nature trail and the results were impressive for a drone at this price point.
The carrying case is a genuine value-add. It fits the drone, controller, both batteries, and accessories in a compact hard shell that protects everything during travel. For a sub-250g travel drone, having everything self-contained in a case makes a big difference.
Best use cases for the HS175G
This is the ideal drone for pilots who want stabilized 4K video without crossing the 250g FAA threshold. If the HS360S appeals to you but you need EIS for smoother footage, the HS175G solves that problem while keeping the sub-250g weight advantage.
Travelers and hikers will appreciate the 60-minute total flight time and the included carrying case. You can capture an entire day of adventure footage without worrying about battery management.
Limitations to plan around
The 800-meter range is shorter than the HS360S and significantly shorter than the HS790. For most casual flying this is perfectly adequate, but if you plan to fly long distances over open terrain you may feel constrained.
Some users report intermittent app connectivity issues. I experienced one brief disconnection during a 40-minute session, though the drone held its GPS position and reconnected within seconds. Keeping your firmware updated minimizes this problem.
5. Holy Stone HS175D – Long-Flight GPS Drone for Beginners
Pros
- Up to 46 minutes flight time with two included batteries
- Beginner-friendly with Altitude Hold and One-Key controls
- GPS Auto Return provides peace of mind for new pilots
- Foldable design with carrying case for easy transport
- Under 249g means no FAA registration required
Cons
- Maximum range of 500 meters may be limiting for experienced pilots
- Some users report occasional app connectivity drops
The HS175D has earned over 7,600 reviews on Amazon, making it one of the most battle-tested Holy Stone drones available. I have recommended this model to multiple first-time pilots and the feedback has been consistently positive. It hits a sweet spot between price, features, and ease of use.
The 4K camera with a 110-degree wide-angle lens captures solid photos and video for the price. While it lacks the EIS found on the upgraded HS175G, the footage is more than acceptable for casual use, social media, and hobby photography.
Two batteries give you 46 minutes of combined flight time. That is plenty for a thorough flying session without feeling rushed. The brushless motors keep the drone efficient and quiet, which matters if you fly in residential areas.
The HS175D excels as a learning tool. Altitude Hold keeps the drone at a consistent height without stick input, and Headless Mode eliminates orientation confusion for new pilots. One-Key takeoff and landing remove the scariest parts of learning to fly.
GPS Auto Return activates automatically when the signal is lost, the drone flies out of range, or the battery gets low. In my testing, this feature triggered reliably and brought the drone home within feet of the takeoff point every time.
Smart flight modes include Follow Me, Waypoint Flight, and Point of Interest (orbit). These autonomous features let beginners capture dynamic footage before they have mastered manual flying. The carrying case rounds out a package that is ready to travel right out of the box.
Who should choose the HS175D
This is my top recommendation for someone buying their first GPS drone. The combination of 4K video, 46-minute flight time, GPS safety features, and sub-250g weight at this price point is hard to beat. If you are learning to fly and want a capable camera drone that will not outpace your skills, start here.
It is also a solid backup drone for experienced pilots who want something lightweight and worry-free for casual outings. You can throw it in a backpack and fly without planning around FAA registration.
Where it falls short
The 500-meter range is the most noticeable limitation. If you have flown long-range drones before, the HS175D will feel tethered. This range is fine for parks, backyards, and local flying spots, but ambitious distance flights are off the table.
Without EIS, video can look slightly shaky in anything beyond calm conditions. If smooth video is a priority, consider spending a bit more on the HS175G which adds Sony sensor stabilization.
6. Holy Stone HS440 – Foldable 1080P Drone with Voice Control
Pros
- 1080P HD camera with 112 degree wide-angle lens
- Foldable design with included carrying case
- Voice and gesture control for hands-free operation
- Automatic takeoff and precise hovering
- One-Key high-speed rotation and Emergency Stop
Cons
- Lower average rating than other Holy Stone models at 4.0 stars
- No GPS features on this model
- Shorter 20-minute flight time with single battery
The HS440 is Holy Stone’s entry-level camera drone for older kids and teens. At 166 grams, it falls well under the FAA threshold and requires no registration. The 1080P HD camera with a 112-degree wide-angle lens is a step up from toy-grade drones that produce blurry 480p footage.
I tested the voice and gesture control features and found them genuinely fun to use. You can start video recording with a hand gesture or trigger commands through the app using your voice. These features make the HS440 feel more interactive and engaging than a basic remote-control quadcopter.
The modular battery delivers about 20 minutes of flight time per charge. While that is shorter than the multi-battery models above, it is reasonable for a drone at this price. The foldable frame and included carrying case make it easy to take anywhere.
On the technical side, the HS440 uses Wi-Fi connectivity for FPV transmission to your phone. The camera angle adjusts up to 90 degrees via the remote or app, giving you flexibility in framing shots. Automatic takeoff and precise hovering help beginners maintain control without constant stick input.
Altitude Hold keeps the drone steady at a set height, and Headless Mode simplifies directional control. The One-Key High-Speed Rotation feature is a fun trick mode that kids and beginners enjoy showing off.
The Emergency Stop function is a safety essential. If the drone is heading toward a tree or obstacle, one button kills the motors immediately. I tested this feature deliberately and it responded instantly.
Perfect audience for the HS440
This drone targets older kids, teenagers, and casual users who want real camera capability without spending over $100. It is a great stepping stone between a toy drone like the HS210 and a full-featured GPS model like the HS360S.
If you want a fun, portable drone for backyard flying and casual photography, the HS440 delivers. The carrying case and foldable design make it an excellent travel companion.
What holds it back
The 4.0-star average rating is the lowest in this roundup. Some users report inconsistent Wi-Fi connections and shorter-than-expected flight times. The lack of GPS means no return-to-home safety net, so you need to keep the drone in visual range.
Without GPS, the HS440 cannot perform autonomous flight modes like Follow Me or Waypoint navigation. If those features matter to you, step up to the HS175D or HS360S.
7. Holy Stone HS210 Mini – Best Drone for Kids and Beginners
Pros
- Three batteries included for 21 minutes of total flight time
- Toss to Launch makes starting intuitive and fun
- Full propeller protection guards prevent injuries
- Circle Fly and 3D Flips add excitement for kids
- Altitude Hold and Headless Mode simplify control for beginners
Cons
- No camera on this model
- Remote control only with no Wi-Fi or app connectivity
- Not Prime eligible
The HS210 is the best Holy Stone drone for young kids and absolute first-timers. At just 50 grams, it is featherlight and safe enough to fly indoors without worrying about furniture damage. The full propeller protection guards mean fingers and faces stay safe during the inevitable bumps of learning.
Three included batteries give you 21 minutes of total flying time, which is exceptional for a drone under $50. Each battery lasts about 7 minutes, so you swap them out and keep flying. My nephew spent an entire afternoon with this drone without running out of juice.
The Toss to Launch feature is pure fun. You throw the drone into the air and the motors kick in automatically. Kids love this feature and it eliminates the awkwardness of hand-launching or trying to take off from an uneven surface.
Technically, the HS210 uses Altitude Hold to maintain a steady hover without constant throttle input. Headless Mode eliminates the confusion of front versus back, so the drone moves in the direction you push the stick regardless of which way it is facing.
The 3D Flips and Auto Rotation tricks are a hit with kids. One button triggers a mid-air flip that looks impressive and is easy enough for a 7-year-old to pull off. Circle Fly sends the drone in an automatic circular pattern for a hands-off show.
The low battery alarm is a practical touch that prevents the drone from dropping out of the sky unexpectedly. When you hear the beep, it is time to land and swap batteries.
Who is the HS210 designed for
This drone is purpose-built for children, party entertainment, and indoor fun. If you want to introduce a young person to drones without investing in a camera model, the HS210 is the perfect starting point. The propeller guards make it genuinely safe for supervised indoor use.
It also makes an excellent gift. At this price point with three batteries included, the HS210 delivers more value and fun per dollar than any other drone in the Holy Stone lineup.
Expectation management
The HS210 has no camera, no GPS, and no app connectivity. It is a pure flying toy. If you are looking for aerial photography or autonomous flight features, you need a different model from this list. The HS210 is about learning basic flight controls and having fun.
Range is limited to about 160 feet, which is plenty for indoor and backyard flying. The drone is not designed for outdoor use in anything more than a gentle breeze. Keep it inside or in a sheltered area for the best experience.
How to Choose the Best Holy Stone Drone?
Choosing among the best Holy Stone drones comes down to five key factors. I have broken down each one based on my testing experience and the patterns I have seen across thousands of Amazon reviews and Reddit discussions.
Weight and FAA registration
The 250-gram rule is the single most important factor for US-based pilots. Drones under 250 grams, including the HS360S, HS175D, HS175G, HS440, and HS210, do not require FAA registration for recreational use. Heavier models like the HS790 (375g) and HS600D (603g) require a $5 registration.
If you travel internationally or want to fly without regulatory friction, sub-250g models are dramatically easier to work with. The HS360S at exactly 249g is engineered specifically to hit this threshold while packing 4K and GPS features.
Camera quality and stabilization
Holy Stone offers three tiers of camera quality. The HS210 has no camera. The HS440 shoots 1080P. Everything else captures 4K video. Within the 4K tier, the HS175G and HS790 use SONY CMOS sensors for better color reproduction, and the HS790 and HS600D add mechanical gimbals for professional-grade stabilization.
If smooth video matters, you need either EIS (HS175G) or a mechanical gimbal (HS790, HS600D). Drones without stabilization produce jittery footage in anything but dead-calm air. This is the main reason to pay more for the gimbal models.
Flight time
Flight time ranges from 20 minutes on the HS360S and HS440 to 80 minutes on the HS600D. Pay attention to whether the advertised time is per battery or total across multiple batteries. The HS175G advertises 60 minutes, but that is with two batteries included.
For most pilots, 30 to 45 minutes of total flight time per session is the sweet spot. Always factor in the cost of spare batteries when comparing models, especially for single-battery packages like the HS360S.
Transmission range
Range varies dramatically across the lineup. The HS210 tops out at 160 feet. The HS440 reaches 330 feet. The HS175D hits 500 meters. The HS360S extends to 10,000 feet. And the HS790 stretches to 30,000 feet.
More range is not always better if you fly in urban areas with obstacles. But if you fly in open rural environments, the long-range models let you explore landscapes that shorter-range drones simply cannot reach.
Holy Stone vs DJI
This is the most common question I see on forums. Holy Stone occupies the budget-to-midrange segment where DJI does not really compete. A $150 Holy Stone drone gives you 4K video, GPS, and smart flight modes that would cost $400-plus from DJI.
DJI wins on camera processing, app polish, and gimbal consistency. Holy Stone wins on price, accessibility, and the sub-250g options that DJI only offers in its Mini lineup. For beginners and hobbyists, Holy Stone delivers better value per dollar. For professionals who need rock-solid reliability and the best image quality, DJI remains the benchmark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Holy Stone drone is best?
The Holy Stone HS600D Sentinel is the best overall drone in the lineup, offering an 8K photo camera, 3-axis gimbal, 80-minute flight time, and Level-6 wind resistance. For best value, the HS360S delivers 4K video, GPS, and a 10,000-foot range at 249 grams with no FAA registration required.
Are Holy Stone drones any good?
Yes, Holy Stone drones are well-regarded for their value proposition. Over 5 million customers have purchased Holy Stone products. Models like the HS360S and HS175D have thousands of positive reviews praising ease of use, camera quality for the price, and reliable GPS features. They are best suited for beginners and hobbyists rather than professional cinematography.
Is Holy Stone better than DJI?
Holy Stone is not better than DJI in terms of camera processing, app stability, or gimbal quality. However, Holy Stone offers significantly better value at lower price points. A 150-dollar Holy Stone drone includes 4K video and GPS features that would cost 400-plus dollars from DJI. Holy Stone is the better choice for budget-conscious beginners, while DJI leads for professional use.
Do Holy Stone drones need FAA registration?
Holy Stone drones under 250 grams do not require FAA registration for recreational flying. This includes the HS360S (249g), HS175D (215g), HS175G (249g), HS440 (166g), and HS210 (50g). The HS790 (375g) and HS600D (603g) exceed the 250-gram threshold and require FAA registration, which costs 5 dollars and covers all your drones for three years.
How long do Holy Stone drone batteries last?
Holy Stone drone battery life ranges from 7 minutes per charge on the HS210 Mini to 40 minutes per charge on the HS600D Sentinel. Most 4K GPS models deliver 20 to 30 minutes per battery. Models like the HS175G and HS790 include two batteries for 60 minutes of total flight time, while the HS600D offers 80 minutes with its dual-battery setup.
Final Thoughts on Holy Stone Drones for 2026
After testing and comparing all seven models, my recommendations are clear. The HS600D Sentinel is the best Holy Stone drone for serious aerial photography with its gimbal and 8K sensor. The HS360S wins on value with 4K, GPS, and sub-250g convenience. And the HS210 Mini is the perfect entry point for kids and absolute beginners.
Holy Stone has earned its place as the leading budget drone brand by packing real features, GPS reliability, and capable cameras into drones that cost a fraction of premium alternatives. Whether you are a first-time pilot or a hobbyist ready to step up to gimbal-stabilized video, there is a model in this lineup that fits your needs and budget.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.