Modern RC helicopters are far easier to fly than they used to be, but only some of them. Before comparing models, decide which of two kinds you want.
The two kinds of helicopter
Stabilised scale helicopters use sensors to hold height and position. Let go of the sticks and they stay put. They are about relaxed flying and good looks.
3D helicopters are collective-pitch aerobatic machines. They can flip and fly inverted, but they need practice, and a mistake usually ends in a crash.
If you have never flown a helicopter, start with a stabilised model.
Stabilised scale helicopters
RC ERA C032 Huey
The C032 is the easy way in. At 115g with a 315mm rotor, it uses a 6-axis gyro, barometric and laser altitude hold, and optical-flow positioning. Flight time is about 13 minutes, and spare blades are in the box. The transmitter needs 4x AA batteries, which are not included.
Optical flow relies on seeing the ground, so it works best over a textured, well-lit surface in calm air. It suits indoor flying and still days.
Yuxiang F02S Airwolf
The F02S adds GPS. At 310g it has a 375mm rotor, dual brushless motors, an electronic fence, and three return modes: on command, on low battery and on lost signal. It suits outdoor flying. Wait for GPS lock before take-off so return-to-home works.
Goosky E2 GPS
The E2 is the largest here, with a 490mm rotor, GPS, LiDAR altitude hold and optical flow. It flies for about 15 minutes on a 3S 1600mAh smart battery and has real presence in the air.
3D helicopters
Goosky S1
The S1 is a light entry into 3D at 107g with a 290mm rotor. Direct-drive brushless motors replace gears and belts, so there is less to wear out or adjust, and being light helps it survive the crashes that come with learning.
Goosky S2 MAX
The S2 MAX is the step up, at about 360g with a 444mm rotor and 3S power. It is stable and visible outdoors but still small enough for a park. Expect about 10 minutes of normal flying and about 4 minutes of hard 3D.
Larger helicopters
Building a bigger heli is a project of its own. For that, we carry parts such as the RadioMaster NEXUS-XR flybarless controller, which runs Rotorflight, and Azure Power 600mm blades.
RTF or BNF?
RTF includes a transmitter and is the simple choice. BNF leaves out the transmitter, and on the S1 and S2 MAX the LiPo charger too.
Check your radio before choosing BNF. The Goosky S1 and S2 MAX have a built-in S-FHSS receiver and also accept S-BUS, PPM and DSM-X. The S2 MAX can use ELRS through an external receiver.
Before your first flight
- Learn on a simulator if you are heading for 3D. It costs nothing to crash there.
- Start in the open, away from people, with plenty of height for mistakes.
- Learn the hover first, from behind, then side-on, then nose-in.
- Treat blades with respect. Main blades carry a lot of energy. Keep hands clear whenever a battery is connected.
- Check the rules. Read our guide to drone rules in India before flying outdoors.
Frequently asked questions
Which RC helicopter is best for a beginner?
A stabilised model such as the RC ERA C032, because it holds its own position while you learn.
Can a beginner start with a 3D helicopter?
Yes, if you practise on a simulator first and accept that you will repair it. The Goosky S1 is built with that in mind.
Is my radio compatible?
Email info@aeroflow.in with your radio model and the helicopter you are considering.