Choosing Your First FPV Radio Controller
Why Your Radio Matters
The radio controller is your physical connection to the drone. A good radio has precise gimbals, reliable link quality, and comfortable ergonomics. Unlike most drone components that wear out from crashes, a quality radio lasts years and works with every drone you build.
Protocol: The Most Important Decision
Your radio protocol determines which receivers your drones use. The three major protocols in FPV:
ExpressLRS (ELRS)
- Open source — free, community-developed
- Long range — competitive with Crossfire at a fraction of the cost
- Low latency — sub-5ms at racing rates
- Widely supported — built into many flight controllers
- Recommendation: Best choice for new pilots in 2026
TBS Crossfire
- Proven reliability — years of race and long-range track record
- Excellent range — 868/915 MHz penetrates obstacles well
- Premium ecosystem — TBS Agent and Fusion integration
- Higher cost — receivers cost $20-$40 each
DJI
- Integrated system — radio, goggles, and air unit designed together
- Ease of use — plug and play, minimal configuration
- Limited to DJI ecosystem — cannot use with analog or other digital systems
- Expensive — DJI RC 2 + goggles + air unit is $800+
Form Factors
Full-Size (RadioMaster TX16S, Boxer)
Traditional two-stick controller with a large screen. Best ergonomics for long sessions. Heavy (600-800g). Includes module bay for external TX modules.
Compact (RadioMaster Zorro, Pocket)
Gamepad-style controller. Lighter (300-400g), portable. Some have built-in ELRS. Less screen real estate but sufficient for most pilots.
Gamepad (BetaFPV LiteRadio 3, TBS Tango 2)
Smallest form factor. Ideal for travel and whoop flying. Limited gimbals and switches.
Gimbal Types
- Hall Effect — magnetic sensors, no physical contact, longest lifespan. Standard on mid-range+ radios.
- AG01 / CNC — premium hall gimbals with adjustable tension. Found on TX16S Mark II and custom builds.
- Potentiometer — contact-based, wears out over time. Found on budget radios only.
Recommendation: Always choose Hall Effect or better. Potentiometer gimbals feel mushy and degrade.
Budget Recommendations
| Budget | Radio | Protocol | Notes | | --------- | ------------------------- | -------------- | ---------------------- | | $50-$70 | RadioMaster Pocket ELRS | ELRS | Best budget option | | $80-$100 | RadioMaster Zorro ELRS | ELRS | Compact, hall gimbals | | $100-$150 | RadioMaster Boxer ELRS | ELRS | Full-size, great value | | $150-$200 | RadioMaster TX16S Mark II | Multi-protocol | Maximum flexibility | | $200+ | TBS Tango 2 Pro | Crossfire | Premium gamepad |
FAQ
Can I use one radio with multiple drones?
Yes — one radio works with unlimited drones that share the same protocol. Each drone needs a compatible receiver. An ELRS radio works with any ELRS receiver from any manufacturer.
Should I buy new or refurbished?
Radios hold value exceptionally well. A refurbished RadioMaster TX16S at $100-$150 is an excellent deal. Check that gimbals are smooth and all switches function properly.
What is EdgeTX?
EdgeTX is the open-source firmware that runs on most RadioMaster and other hobby-grade radios. It replaced OpenTX. EdgeTX provides model configuration, mixer setup, telemetry, and Lua scripting.