When we wish to fly drones, we require suitable controllers to get a live image and transfer commands to the drone. If you do not purchase a drone as a package, you need to look independently for drone controllers.
What are the very best drone controllers?
The very best drone controllers are the DJI RC, DJI RC Pro, and RC-N1 for DJI basic drones. The DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 and Radiomaster TS16x are likewise wonderful drone controllers that can be utilized with flying FPV drones and the DJI FPV Movement Controller for an immersive, special experience.
In this short article, I wish to show you a couple of things to keep in mind when purchasing a drone controller and a couple of pointers to assist you choose which controller you ought to pick for your drone.
How do drone controllers work?
A drone controller, remote controller, or RC, are physical gadgets that will make a radio or cordless connection to the drone on a particular frequency to assist the pilot send out input signals to the drone.
Basic drone controllers (non-FPV) transfer inputs to the drone AND get information such as a live image, telemetry, and more.
Taking a DJI controller, for example, the basic DJI RC-N1, where you will need to link your phone to the controller for the drone to fly, will enable you to get a live image on your phone through the DJI Fly app.
The drone you’re flying has a module, in this case, a DJI O3 transmission system, that will act both as a receiver and a transmitter.
With custom-made FPV drones that do not have a digital DJI video transmitter, in many cases, the VTX module will just transfer video to the safety glasses, and the drone will need a different radio receivers module, such as TBS Crossfire or FrSky XM+, that will have a various broadcast channel and a link in between the drone and the controller.
However in this case, the remote controller must have a suitable transmission module, and things might get made complex here.
What kinds of controllers exist?
Basic drone controllers: These can be from DJI, such as DJI RC-N1, DJI RC, or DJI RC Pro, which will both transfer information to the drone and get a live image, and non-DJI drone controllers, which have comparable functions.
FPV drone controllers: These will be significantly more complicated controllers that enable additional functions and will just transfer information to the drone. The image can not be gotten by the controller however by the safety glasses.
Movement Controller: Developed by DJI, these controllers utilize motion movement and varied controls to streamline flying some suitable drones (such as DJI Avata).
Movement Controllers will just transfer information to the drone and might not have as much variety as a normal controller.
These controllers were presented just recently and might be foreign to some drone pilots, and they need various abilities to discover to fly than basic gimbal-based controllers.
Other RC controllers: Extremely comparable to the FPV drone controllers (and in many cases, even the FPV drone controllers can be utilized as such), they will enable a link to other RC gadgets, such as RC airplanes, RC automobiles, helis, and RC boats.
In most cases, RC vehicle controllers can likewise vary from basic gimbal controllers.
These controllers will have a narrow compatibility variety, so you need to make sure that if you wish to get a different controller for your drone, the controller can connect to the drone.
That’s why we wish to extend this short article and assist you get the proper controller for your drone.
Numerous controllers are offered on the marketplace today, so our choice will consist of just the very best drone controllers that will work with familiar drones and controllers with broad compatibilities.
” MORE: Can you fly DJI drones without a controller?
Finest basic drone controllers
1. DJI RC
DJI RC
Remote Controller for DJI Mini 3 Pro/DJI Mavic 3/DJI Mavic 3 Cine, Lightweight Body, FHD Screen, 4hr Battery, Accuracy Control Sticks, O3+ Transmission
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05/31/2023 01:09 am GMT
DJI RC is an innovative drone controller from DJI suitable with a number of DJI drones.
The controller includes a bundled screen, getting rid of the requirement for pilots to link their phones to the controller to fly their drones.
| Weight | 390 grams |
| Size | 168.4 Ã 123.7 Ã 46.2 mm without controller sticks |
| Battery life | Approximately 4 hours |
| Transmission Variety | Approximately 9.3 miles (15km) with DJI Mavic 3 |
| Does it likewise get video? | Yes |
| Have a bundled screen? | Yes, 5.5 inches, Complete HD resolution, 60 frames per 2nd screen, multitouch, and max 700 nits |
| Compatibility | — O3 Video Transmission System, that includes DJI Mini 3 Pro and DJI Air Two — O3+ Video Transmission System, that includes DJI Mavic 3, Mavic 3 Timeless, Mavic 3 Cine, Mavic 3 Pro, Mavic 3 Pro Cine — O2 Video Transmission System, suitable with DJI Mini 3 |
â Pros
- It includes a bundled screen, getting rid of the requirement to utilize a cellphone to fly the drone
- It has a great transmission variety
- Extensively suitable with a number of DJI drones
- Has an ergonomic appearance that feels rugged and not plasticky
- Smooth gimbal control
- Additional devoted buttons
- It includes preinstalled DJI Fly app and is ready-to-use
- Needs no setup prior to any flights
â Cons
- It is somewhat large and much heavier than some drones (such as DJI Mini 3 Pro)
- It’s somewhat costly
With the DJI RC remote controller, you just can not fail, as it is so simple to utilize and needs no setup at all prior to introducing the drone.
The DJI RC is likewise suitable with those drones and might be even more utilized with yet-to-be-released DJI drones that accept the very same O3 and O3+ transmission systems.
As a drone pilot, you will certainly discover a substantial distinction and upgrade from the timeless DJI RC-N1 remote controller, which needs your cellphone to fly the drone.
2. DJI RC Pro
DJI RC Pro
High-bright screen, effective efficiency, effective control, impressive audio, and video efficiency.
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05/31/2023 01:13 am GMT
The DJI RC Pro is the expert variation of the DJI RC, suitable with just a handful of DJI drones however with much better transmission variety and penetration, a brighter screen, and a couple of more special benefits.
| Weight | 680 grams |
| Size | 183 Ã 137 Ã 47 mm with antennas folded and controllers not installed |
| Battery life | Approximately 3 hours |
| Transmission Variety | 15km |
| Does it likewise get video? | Yes, with an O3+ video transmission system |
| Have a bundled screen? | Yes, it has a 5.5-inch screen at Complete HD resolution, 60 frames per 2nd, and can reach 1000 nits on bright days |
| Compatibility | The DJI RC Pro is presently suitable with DJI Mavic 3, DJI Mavic 3 Cine, DJI Mavic 3 Classic, DJI Mavic 3 Pro, DJI Mavic 3 Pro Cine, and DJI Air 2S, however will support more airplane in the future |
â Pros
- It’s a special DJI controller produced specialists
- Has among the very best variety transmissions and penetration with the most sophisticated receiver module
- You can live stream from this controller, which is best for content developers
- It has 32GB of internal storage
- Double Band Wi-Fi 6
- Mini HDMI output which can support screen on extra displays
- Has an outside mode where the screen will be incredibly intense and noticeable completely sunshine
- Extremely smooth operating experience with wonderful gimbals and impressive efficiency
- It’s produced the future
â Cons
- It’s really pricey for non-professionals
- It’s a heavy controller, not perfect for backpacking and light travel
3. DJI RC-N1 (RC231, mode 2)
DJI RC-N1 (RC231, mode 2)
RotorLogic DJI Mini 2 Remote Controller Usage for DJI Mavic 3, Mini 2, Air 2S Drone (Consists Of 2 Control Sticks. Omit Retail Box and RC Cables).
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05/31/2023 01:16 am GMT
The DJI RC-N1 (RC231 design, mode 2) is the current basic controller utilized among many DJI drones with comprehensive compatibility.
It’s the one to pick if you’re trying to find a spending plan controller for your suitable DJI drone or if your initial DJI RC-N1 passes away.
This RC typically includes a DJI drone when you purchase one, however it is a difficult item to purchase independently, even from the main DJI site.
| Weight | Approx. 390 grams without a mobile phone |
| Size | 150x100x35mm folded |
| Battery life | 4 hours when charging a mobile phone or 6 hours when not charging |
| Transmission Variety | 7.5 miles (12km), however it depends upon the drone |
| Does it likewise get video? | Yes, on the mobile phone linked |
| Have a bundled screen? | No |
| Compatibility | The DJI RC-N1 is commonly suitable with a variety of DJI drones such as Mini 2, Mini 2 SE, Mini 3, Mini 3 Pro, Mavic Air 2, Mavic Air 2S, Mavic 3 (plus Cine and Classic), and Mavic 3 Pro (plus Cine) |
â Pros
- It’s a low-cost little controller with smooth efficiency
- Exceptional transmission variety
- Broad compatibility with DJI drones
- Light-weight and portable
- You can link an iPad or Android tablet rather of a phone, providing you a huge screen benefit
â Cons
- It’s difficult to discover it independently
- It does not have a bundled screen
- The develop quality, transmission variety, and extra functions can not compare to DJI RC or RC Pro
Throughout the years, there have actually been numerous variations with various compatibilities of the DJI RC-N1. Still, in general, it is the very same controller as several years earlier– excellent, strong signal and without any concerns.
It’s uncommon for the RC-N1 to fail or break, however if you require a brand-new controller, you will have problem discovering this one beyond a drone pack.
With some imagination, you can do something with this controller you can not with others. For example, while I was flying my Mavic Air, I typically linked my iPad to the RC to fly and see it on a larger screen.
It’s possible for you to do that, whereas, with the DJI RC or RC Pro, you will require to check out HDMI output displays rather.
” MORE: DJI RC vs. DJI RC-N1
Finest FPV drone controllers
FPV remote controllers are numerous and unique from basic controllers as they can not get video feeds, have various transmitter procedures, have no throttle spring stress, and function many custom-made buttons for other FPV functions and commands.
Here are a few of the very best controllers in FPV.
1. DJI FPV Remote Controller 2
| Weight | 346 grams |
| Size | 190 Ã 140 Ã 51 mm |
| Battery life | Approximately 9 hours |
| Transmission Variety | Max 6.2 miles or 10 km |
| Does it likewise get video? | No |
| Have a bundled screen? | No |
| Compatibility | DJI FPV Drone, DJI Avata, DJI FPV Safety Glasses V2, DJI Safety Glasses 2, Integra |
â Pros
- It has really smooth and delicate joysticks for precise FPV flights
- It’s easy, compact, and effective
- Excellent transmission signal
- Light-weight and portable
- An exceptional controller to train in FPV simulators
- It’s inexpensive
â Cons
- Narrow compatibility variety
- Does not deal with non-DJI drones
Strictly for DJI FPV and Avata (and suitable headsets), the DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 is the one you require to fly these drones, however it is likewise an outstanding low-cost option to train in simulators with this RC.
Although I personally own a couple of FPV remote controllers, I constantly train in Liftoff with the DJI FPV Remote Controller 2, which works perfectly.
2. Radiomaster TX16S Mark II
Radiomaster TX16S Mark II
MAX Edition 2.4 GHz 16 Channel EdgeTX OpenTX Radio Transmitter Leather Grips CNC Completed Parts Mode 2 (Carbon Red, 4-in-1 w/Hall V4.0).
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05/31/2023 01:21 am GMT
| Weight | 750 grams without batteries |
| Size | 287x183x129 mm |
| Battery life | Depends upon the procedure you utilize, sending power, and so on |
| Does it likewise get video? | No |
| Have a bundled screen? | Yes, to show information and settings |
| Compatibility | Supports over 40 procedures |
â Pros
- It is among the best-known FPV radios of perpetuity
- It has a smooth surface and is a resilient controller
- Has a 4.3 IPS color screen (for menu, settings, and setups, not to get live images)
- External module bay
- 4 in 1 multi-protocol module
- Can support over 40 various procedures that might cover compatibility with practically any FPV drone (in some cases an external module might be required)
- Approximately 16 channels
- Extremely smooth and quality gimbals (which can likewise be updated)
- It works not just with FPV drones however with other airplane, RC boats, automobiles, and so on (depending upon the procedure)
â Cons
The Radiomaster TX16S is among the most pre-owned remote controllers for FPV drones that supports a variety of procedures and can likewise set up more into the external module, consisting of Crossfire, ELRS, and so on
This remote controller is likewise among the most suggested and finest you can get for the rate if you wish to fly FPV drones.
It includes the EdgeTX os however can be set up with OpenTX.
3. DJI Movement Controller for FPV
DJI FPV Movement Controller
Introduction: Experience immersive flight like never ever prior to with the DJI Movement Controller, which enables the airplane to steer based upon your natural hand movements.
What You Get: DJI Movement Controller à 1, Lanyard à 1
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05/30/2023 11:09 am GMT
| Weight | 167 grams |
| Battery life | 5 hours |
| Transmission Variety | Approximately 6.2 miles (10 km) |
| Transmission Frequency | 2.4 Ghz and 5.8 Ghz spectrum |
| Compatibility | DJI Avata, DJI FPV Drone, DJI Safety Glasses 2, DJI FPV Safety glasses v2, Integra |
â Pros
- An ingenious brand-new method to manage a drone
- It’s a really beginner-friendly technique of flying drones
- It supplies a great experience to fly a drone with movement controllers
- All the drone controls are at your fingertips
â Cons
- This variation works with just DJI Avata and the DJI FPV drone
- You have actually restricted possible to manage an FPV drone
- The transmission variety is much less than that of a remote controller
For lots of novices and individuals trying to find alternative methods to fly these 2 drones, the FPV Movement Controller is a great technique to do it.
Another movement controller, the DJI RC Movement 2, is likewise suitable with a couple of other DJI drones. Still, lots of pilots grumbled about its concerns, so we advise just the basic FPV movement controller.
If you’re utilized to flying drones with gimbal controllers, it will be odd for you to get the Movement Controller and straight fly the drone with it.
Although not made complex, you ought to do it in an open area for the very first time for security factors.
Exist other methods to manage a drone without a controller?
Not actually.
Although drone controllers been available in various kinds, utilizing your cellphone’s touch screen is the only method you can manage a drone without a controller.
However this will use to just a few low-cost drones with very little transmission variety, which are challenging to manage from a touchscreen phone.
Are remote controllers interchangeable?
Yes, various kinds of remote controllers can be utilized with various drones as long as they work with each other.
For example, let’s take the DJI Mini 3 Pro, which can be utilized with DJI RC-N1 and the DJI RC.
Or let’s state that Protek 25 works with the RadioMaster TX16S through the D8 procedure. That drone can be bound with any controllers supporting that procedure.
If we do not like D8, we can switch the module to Crossfire, which will work with any modules on suitable remote controllers.
The concept is that the remote controller needs to match the procedure of the drone radio receiver, and after that they can bind together.
Do FPV remote controllers deal with basic drones?
FPV remote controllers can not bind to basic drones due to the fact that these drones likewise transfer video feeds, and FPV RC can not get video feeds through the safety glasses.
And likely, the procedures are completely various.
However a professional might have the ability to include a custom-made receiver to a basic drone and bind it with an FPV remote controller.
Nevertheless, you might encounter concerns in these circumstances and not get a video feed upon the very same controller.
Do basic remote controllers deal with FPV drones?
Like discussed above, the basic remote controllers can not deal with FPV drones.
That’s because, on top of various radio procedures, the basic remote controllers have spring stress on the throttle equipment, which need to be eliminated to fly an FPV drone.
What else should you remember when picking a drone controller?
- FPV controllers will vary from basic controllers with extra switches and buttons, and the throttle spring will have no stress.
For example, a basic drone controller’s throttle equipment will constantly come focused, whereas an FPV drone controller constantly needs manual input to the throttle.
- Basic drone controllers, as discussed previously, have the capability likewise to get video feeds and shows on a mobile or RC screen, whereas the FPV radio controllers can be utilized ONLY for sending input information.
- Frequently, basic drone controllers work on either a 2.4 or 5.8 Ghz spectrum, where FPV radios will run on particular radio bandwidth, depending upon the procedure and module.