The primary difference between a quadcopter and a hexacopter lies in the number of motors and, consequently, their performance. A quadcopter, as the name implies, has four motors, which makes it relatively simple to operate, affordable, and lightweight.
This configuration is perfect for hobbyists and light commercial use, such as recreational flying or capturing aerial footage with a small camera. Quadcopters are agile and easy to maneuver, which is why they are the most popular type of drone for beginners and general use.
On the other hand, a hexacopter features six motors, which provides enhanced stability and lifting power compared to a quadcopter. With two additional motors, hexacopters can carry heavier payloads, making them more suitable for professional-grade equipment like high-definition cameras, LIDAR sensors, or thermal imaging devices.
The extra motors also offer more redundancy; if one motor fails, the drone can continue flying without crashing, which adds a level of safety that quadcopters lack. However, hexacopters are usually more expensive and require more complex controls due to the additional motors.