Top 5 Best Scale RC Helicopters: Expert Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
Scale RC helicopters are an excellent way to enjoy the thrill of flying a helicopter without leaving the comfort of your home. These miniature models can perform many of the same maneuvers as their full-size counterparts, and they are available in a variety of styles and sizes. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced pilot, finding the best scale RC helicopter is essential to ensure a fun and rewarding experience. With so many models on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this article, we will explore the top picks for the best scale RC helicopters and provide a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision. We will also provide in-depth reviews of each top pick to help you choose the best model based on your needs and preferences. So, let’s get started!
Top Picks
After thorough research and personal testing, we have compiled a list of the top 3 best scale RC helicopters on the market that cater to different needs and budgets.
- Blade 230 S V2: This scale RC helicopter is perfect for both beginners and advanced pilots. It is easy to fly and has a responsive control system, making it suitable for acrobatic maneuvers. The helicopter’s durable construction makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and it has a 15-minute flight time.
- WLtoys V911S: Perfect for those on a budget, this helicopter is an excellent entry-level option. With its small size, it’s suitable for indoor use and offers a six-minute flight time. It’s easy to set up and control and comes with a USB charger.
- Trex 700: While it comes with a hefty price tag, the Trex 700 is worth the investment for advanced pilots looking for an exceptional flying experience. It’s lightweight, highly responsive, and has a long 12-15 minute flight time. These features make it ideal for outdoor flying and acrobatic tricks, but it’s also suitable for indoor use.
In addition to these top picks, there are many other RC helicopters on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Before making a purchase, it’s essential to research and compare different products to find the one that suits your needs best.
What does a helicopter cost?
The cost of a helicopter can vary widely depending on the type, size, and capabilities of the aircraft. Here are some estimated ranges for different models, although these may not include all factors that influence the final price:
- Robinson R22: $250,000 – $300,000
- Bell 505 Jet Ranger X: $1.5 million – $1.7 million
- Sikorsky S-76D: $7.9 million – $8.5 million
It’s important to note that these prices are just estimates, and the actual cost may be significantly higher based on customization options, maintenance needs, and other variables. If you’re interested in purchasing a helicopter, it’s recommended to reach out to a reputable aircraft dealer or manufacturer for more information.
Some helpful websites to research helicopter prices and options include:
When purchasing a scale RC helicopter, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the most suitable and enjoyable flying experience. Here’s what you should know before making your purchase:
- Indoor vs. Outdoor: Different helicopters are optimized for indoor or outdoor use, depending on their size, weight, and construction. Consider where you plan to fly your helicopter and buy accordingly.
- Size: Scale RC helicopters come in various sizes, from small micro-helicopters to large, advanced models. Ensure you know what size you require based on your experience level and where you plan to fly it.
- Flight Time: The flight time of a RC helicopter varies from as little as five minutes to as long as 20 minutes. Determine how long you plan to fly it and buy the appropriate helicopter.
- Price: The price of a scale RC helicopter ranges between $50 to $1,500. Determine your budget and buy the best quality helicopter you can afford.
RC Helicopter Sizes
| Size | Length (inches) | Flight Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Micro | 6-12 | 5-6 |
| Small | 12-20 | 7-10 |
| Medium | 20-30 | 12-15 |
| Large | 30-50 | 15-20 |
Other factors to consider include the helicopter’s construction, stability, maneuverability, and control system. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find a scale RC helicopter that meets your needs and provides an enjoyable flying experience. Check out our latest reviews of the best scale RC helicopters on Amazon to find your perfect match.
What size RC helicopter is best for beginner?
For beginners, it is recommended to start with small and nimble RC helicopters. A size of 200-300mm is a good choice for indoor flying. On the other hand, a 450mm size helicopter is suitable for outdoor flying as it is more stable in the wind. It is also advisable to start with a coaxial or fixed-pitch helicopter as they are easier to control and require less maintenance. Some popular beginner-friendly options are Blade Nano CP S, Blade 70S, and Syma S107G.
For those who want to learn more about RC helicopters, websites like Horizon Hobby and HeliDirect offer detailed information about different types and sizes of helicopters. They also provide a wide range of beginner-friendly products to choose from.
Expert Reviews
To help you choose the best scale RC helicopter, we have reviewed the top picks based on expert opinions and user feedback. Here is a detailed review of each of the top picks:
- Blade 230s V2: This helicopter is perfect for intermediate and advanced pilots looking for a reliable and responsive scale helicopter. It comes with a lightweight fuselage, advanced AS3X flybarless stability, and optimized servos for quick and accurate responses. However, it does require some assembly, and the flight range is relatively limited.
- E-flite UH-72 Lakota: This is a well-built and easy-to-use helicopter optimized for outdoor flying. It comes with a durable and realistic-looking body, SAFE technology for flight stability, and an advanced AS3X flybarless system for great control. However, it may not be suitable for advanced pilots looking for more maneuverability and flexibility.
- Blade Nano S2: This helicopter is ideal for beginners looking to hone their flying skills with a compact and affordable helicopter. It comes with a small and lightweight body, SAFE technology for flight stability, and brushless main and tail motors for quick and precise movements. However, the flight time is relatively short, and the range is limited.
Overall, each of these top picks offers unique and useful features that make them stand out in the market. We recommend choosing the one that best meets your skill level, preferred flying location, and personal needs.
What is the best RC helicopter for beginners in 2023?
The best RC helicopter for beginners in 2023 is the Syma S107G. It is affordable, easy to control and durable. Other good options for beginners include the Blade mCX2 and the WLtoys V911-pro. For more information and reviews, check out websites like RC Geeks and RC Groups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best scale RC helicopter requires careful consideration of various factors, including durability, stability, maneuverability, ease of use, and price. By following this guide and considering the criteria we have highlighted, you can choose a scale RC helicopter that meets your personal needs and preferences. Remember to start with a smaller, simpler model if you’re a beginner and gradually progress to more advanced models once you master the basics.
Finally, it’s essential to purchase from a reputable retailer or manufacturer to ensure that you get a high-quality product with good customer support. Consider checking out websites such as Amazon, RC Planet, Horizon Hobby, and Tower Hobbies, which offer a range of options to suit different budgets and skill levels. With the right scale RC helicopter, you can enjoy long hours of flying fun and adventure both indoors and outdoors.
