Being satisfied over a long period of time instead of wasting money for poor build quality
Buying quality gear initially for FPV drones is important because it will save you money in the long run. Although it may seem expensive at first, it will be more durable and reliable, preventing you from constantly repairing or replacing cheap components. This is especially important for beginners who will likely crash a lot. By investing in quality gear, you'll be able to spend more time flying and less time repairing. The main difference between reliable gear and crap lies in using high-quality components as well as a robust quality control process.
What you need as a Beginner
If you are willing to do the deep dive, be aware of the fact, that this hobby is pretty addictive as well as budget and time-consuming but believe me, you won't regret it.
So ELEVATE YOURSELF
Radio Controller
There are several alternatives available but the go-to's either feature TBS Crossfire or ELRS which are the most reliable radio protocols in the Hobby. Feel free to check out my recommendations below.
TBS Crossfire offers long-range capabilities and low latency but is more expensive and requires specific hardware. ELRS is an open-source option that is more affordable and customizable. It will give you as well loads of range, maybe even more then Crossfire. Here comes the big question: does size matter? When it comes to controllers, conventional big radio controllers offer better ergonomics and expandability but can be bulky and have a steeper learning curve. Gamepad-style controllers like the TBS Tango or the Commando8 are more portable and intuitive but have limited expandability and may be less ergonomic. Consider your specific needs, budget, and flying preferences when making a decision. I personally really like gamepad style radios.
Simulator
Practice makes perfect! Simulators allow you to develop your skills and gain experience without any risk of damage or injury. There are many simulators available, both free and paid, such as Liftoff, Velocidrone, TRYP, DRL Simulator and many more. Via Steam alone, there are more than 5 sims available and every one has it's own benefits. Velocidrone, for instance, is tailored to drone racing simulation featuring all build sizes whereas TRYP is more of a cinematic chasing sim that's a litte more gaming-tailored. You can practice to chaise various sorts of vehicles and sports activities like base-jumping, ATVs, MotoX, skiers and many more.
It is highly recommended to start out buying a nice radio together with a popular simulator. It gives you the opportunity to learn and train your muscle memory and let's you practice together with friends or the community online. With DRL sim you even can qualify for the DRL League online without buying a drone yourself. Once people qualify online, they get invited to the tryouts by DRL.
FPV Googles
Welcome to the world of FPV - where the choice between digital and analog video transmission can feel like committing to a religion. With so many options available, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. In the analog world, the classic image is alluring, with rich and vibrant colors, and low latency. But with digital transmission, you get the highest quality images, with different, although sufficient latency.
Having the right battery charger is just as important as having the right batteries. Charging your batteries properly is critical for safety, longevity, and optimal performance. Using a low-quality charger or charging your batteries incorrectly can lead to damage or even fire hazards. It's important to choose a high-quality charger that is compatible with your batteries and has safety features like overcharge protection and temperature monitoring.
Battery choice is crucial for maximum performance. Two popular options are 4S and 6S LiPo batteries for freestyle and other energy-demanding purposes. However, if you plan to fly longer distances without high speeds or acrobatic maneuvers you want to get yourself Li-Ion batteries which are not made to handle high currents but to last a long time when cruising over far distances.
Differences can be observed in Energy Density: LiPo batteries show high energy density and more power while Lithium-ion Batteries have lower energy-to-weight ratio, but higher energy-to-volume ratio for compact builds. Voltage: Li-Ion batteries can be discharged to a lower Voltage before dying compared to LiPos. Discharge Rate: LiPos can handle a significant higher discharge rate and are therefore more suited for aggressive, acrobatic flying. Availability: Sometimes it can be hard finding the right Li-Ion pack for your special needs, whereas LiPos are widely available in various specs and sizes.
Excellent Customer Support is crucial: Select a FPV drone from a company known for providing great customer support. In case you encounter any issues, having responsive and helpful customer service can greatly assist you in troubleshooting problems, obtaining guidance, and resolving any concerns that may arise during your journey as a beginner.
My main fleet
The Drone, of course
It's all about what YOU want to accomplish with your rig of choice. Consider Weight and Safety: As a beginner, prioritize safety by opting for a drone that is below 250g. Registration-free sub-250g drones are generally easier to handle and reduce the risk of causing damage or injury in case of accidents. Size and Maneuverability: In the beginning, it can be challenging to handle larger drones, particularly 5-inch models. Start with a smaller-sized drone, such as a 3 or 4-inch quadcopter, which offers better maneuverability and is easier to control while you develop your skills. Spare Parts Availability: Ensure that the drone you choose has readily available spare parts. Beginner pilots are more prone to crashes, and having access to spare parts will make repairs easier and minimize downtime. Check if the manufacturer or reputable retailers offer spare parts for the specific model you are considering.
A great choice for beginners who are looking for a compromise between power and safety near people.
Versatile and thrustful enough for light Freestyle but made for Cinematic Dry weight: 237g Takeoff Weight: Approx. 400g Light cams prefered: Action2/GP11Mini
A high-quality sub 250g, registration FREE 4k Drone carrying the DJI O3. Extremely beginner friendly. Cinematic indoor/ outdoor/ Save around people REGISTRATION FREE Dry weight:180g Takeoff Weight: < 249g possible Built-in DJI airunit O3 4k,
Meet TinyGO - the ultimate drone that's designed for novice pilots starting from scratch. Inside the kit, you'll find a high-definition 800x480px FPV goggle and the latest TinyRadio GR8 remote controller, specially designed for indoor and novice pilots.
Includes everything you need to start out
Experience the ultimate FPV adventure with TinyGO - the perfect RTF kit for indoor flight! As a beginner, you'll be thrilled to know that our package includes everything you need to get started.
THE perfect rig to start out
Each TinyGO is carefully assembled by the GEPRC team for excellent performance. So why wait? Start your FPV journey today and experience the thrill of TinyGO - your first and best choice for an unforgettable FPV drone experience!
Light weight & REGISTRATION FREE
With its lightweight and easy-to-carry design, you'll never have to worry about carrying heavy equipment. Plus, our customized GEPRC Fly Bag makes it convenient to take your TinyGO wherever you go.
Meet the DoMain, GEPRC's trailblazing Freestyle FPV drone, boasting a one-of-a-kind structural design that enhances frame stability like never before. This drone is not just about performance; it's about personalization too. The innovative side panel design is fully integrated and ready for your custom decals, offering endless possibilities for creativity and uniqueness.
Features
The new side panel design is integrated, supporting DIY side panel decals.Higher creativity and diversity. No Props in view.