Cheap vs. Expensive FPV Controllers - What's the Difference?

Ғылым және технология

Why are some FPV controllers $40 while others are $250? What makes some radios better than others and, as a beginner, which features should you actually care about? Here's my take on FPV Controllers 101... and my top recommendations!
BetaFPV Lite Radio 2 SE -
Radiomaster TX12 -
Radiomaster TX16S - tiny.cc/1zzvtz
Radiomaster TX16S (with Crossfire Module) -
TBS Tango 2 - tinyurl.com/ybz5yzzp
Here’s all the gear I currently use:
(links unavailable as of April 11, 2023. Will be back in a few days!)
All of the above are affiliate links! They will not cost you anything extra but will give me a small commission when used!
Want to support my work and get exclusive benefits? Check me out on Patreon!
/ mattpochwat
For business inquiries, feel free to contact me at:
mattpochwat@gmail.com
You can also check me out on Instagram!
/ matt_pochwat
0:00 Intro
1:55 Form Factor
3:36 Gimbals
4:43 Switches
5:31 Channels
6:54 Receiver Protocols
9:41 Frequencies
11:15 Module Bay
12:43 Simulator Support
13:04 Software
13:42 Telemetry Support
14:22 Output Power
14:49 Other Features
15:26 Configuration
16:09 Some radio recommendations

Пікірлер: 315

  • @DavidCarns
    @DavidCarns3 жыл бұрын

    Matt you are becoming the go-to-guy for newbies to get started. Matt to answer the hobby-orienting questions, Bardwell to get into all the details from there. Not a bad place to be!

  • @jacksonmcdowell8144

    @jacksonmcdowell8144

    3 жыл бұрын

    I agree keep up the good work matt

  • @dropfile

    @dropfile

    3 жыл бұрын

    You took the words right out of my mouth. This is the case indeed. Moreover, I learn about JB from Matt's video.

  • @mohawx8054

    @mohawx8054

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yeah, you are a really good presenter and speaker, the editing is awesome and unique, you answer the questions the guys who have been flying for a long time might over look (like what types of gimbals are out there) and your flying is getting pretty good too. Look forward to an update on the freestyle 🚀👏

  • @leosouza2230

    @leosouza2230

    3 жыл бұрын

    I always send his videos to my friends who want to understand the hobby before buying anything

  • @roxanne7164

    @roxanne7164

    3 жыл бұрын

    From a fellow newbie: Matt has BEEN the go-to guy! And with the DJI FPV gateway, Matt will hopefully add quite a bit to his audience. Awesome videos as usual!

  • @zagetex4776
    @zagetex47763 жыл бұрын

    Very Underrated Channel tbh

  • @zahidulislam7768

    @zahidulislam7768

    2 жыл бұрын

    Impressive video tho

  • @arnehermans492

    @arnehermans492

    Жыл бұрын

    I agree

  • @neayt9952

    @neayt9952

    Жыл бұрын

    True

  • @jeffchristianson-ziebell7727

    @jeffchristianson-ziebell7727

    Жыл бұрын

    Definitely- Matt’s humble & relatable & ultra informative - all while not spewing creepy opinions as fact - unlike the other jared-like dude who’s gonna teach us something lol -bold arrogant statement from a creepy weird guy always bothered me- Matt not at all- Matt is great & actually teaches facts in relatable easy to learn ways - so glad he’s here so I can actually learn without being creeped out

  • @IronOre33

    @IronOre33

    8 ай бұрын

    Fr level: ♾️

  • @MattPochwat
    @MattPochwat3 жыл бұрын

    Hi... it's been a while! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and do all that other fun KZread stuff.

  • @dracefpv5836
    @dracefpv58363 жыл бұрын

    Great video Matt, keep up the good work. I always am excited for a new video to be released as I never know what's coming next.

  • @chrismonsen
    @chrismonsen2 жыл бұрын

    Very useful. Thank you. I appreciate you and all the information you provide.

  • @wanderson45666
    @wanderson45666 Жыл бұрын

    Im new to the FPV world and you've answered every question I've had as far as a radio goes. Thank you sir!

  • @michaelwblade
    @michaelwblade3 жыл бұрын

    Hey Matt I was happy to get this notification. I really enjoy your videos and your style of content. I’m fairly new to FPV and I’m definitely going down the rabbit hole lol 😂

  • @jankukua5643
    @jankukua56432 жыл бұрын

    I really like your channel and how you go into details. You answer pretty much any question anyone could ask. Thank you!

  • @waryum
    @waryum3 жыл бұрын

    Hey just wanted to let you know all your previous video help me getting my first gear into that HObby i bought a TX16S. Keep up the good work !

  • @jakemaughan3818
    @jakemaughan38183 жыл бұрын

    I have had my control for months and for some reason still watched this. Geesh Matt! Why do your videos have to be so good?

  • @mariusschmitt5855
    @mariusschmitt58553 жыл бұрын

    As always a very informative video for beginners. I could barely find something you overlooked.

  • @DancePartyBlammo
    @DancePartyBlammo Жыл бұрын

    this video made it a lot easier to decide which controller i wanted to start with as a beginner leaning towards the radiomaster TX12 4in1. Thanks for the explanations!

  • @chrissyaboyy
    @chrissyaboyy Жыл бұрын

    Love your style of editing man !! Super easy to understand and follow what you’re saying . Thanks !!

  • @tygerfpv7861
    @tygerfpv78612 жыл бұрын

    Dude this video was super helpful! Keep making these real informational videos man 👍🏽

  • @ak35h22
    @ak35h222 жыл бұрын

    Amazing drone fpv channel - much appreciated for all the info!

  • @Jokerman518
    @Jokerman5182 жыл бұрын

    My first drone the eachine Novice 4 came with a Tx12 and this little radio is amazing. The close to the size of a gaming controller so it's comfortable and it can take every module you can think of. Love love love the Tx12. Awesome content!

  • @naturesvibe1735
    @naturesvibe17352 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the great informative video mate! Just ordered the RM TX12! 🔥

  • @ShreyasGurav
    @ShreyasGurav2 жыл бұрын

    You are really doing a wonderful job, I am thinking of starting the FPV flying soon! Greetings and thanks from Vancouver!

  • @dronevideos5608
    @dronevideos56083 жыл бұрын

    Very interesting video. I'm getting near FPV mainly thanks to you and your contents which are perfect for beginners.

  • @danielcrowe318
    @danielcrowe318 Жыл бұрын

    I really appreciate your helpful and informative videos. Thanks for taking the time to help us newbies out.

  • @Simonclark1975
    @Simonclark1975 Жыл бұрын

    I'm just getting into fpv and I'm going potty trying to decide on everything. Great video and very easy to follow. Thank you!

  • @TriniWeekes
    @TriniWeekes2 жыл бұрын

    Man I am thinking seriously into getting into FPV. your videos are very informative and easy to understand. Thank you

  • @imadol884
    @imadol8843 жыл бұрын

    Awesome info! THANKS! you just helped me out deciding purchase my first transmitter tango 2 )))

  • @t3chnotub3
    @t3chnotub32 жыл бұрын

    Very informative. I want to get started with fpv drones and Radiomaster is on my list now. Thankss

  • @neeko6464
    @neeko6464 Жыл бұрын

    definitely have been feeling very overwhelmed lately which has been frustrating. this was very helpful, subscribed.

  • @darkpowerxo
    @darkpowerxo Жыл бұрын

    Found your channel searching for best drone controller. I love how informative it is and easy to understand for noobs

  • @TheMisterSpok
    @TheMisterSpok3 жыл бұрын

    Your channel is awesome. Keep up the good work!

  • @mikepatton8691
    @mikepatton869118 күн бұрын

    Hey Matt, I love your videos. They present all the information you need in a thorough manner but also easily understandable. However these videos are years old at this point, any chance you could do an updated series on FPV drones and the related gear with more up to date options? Either way you a new fan. Thanks for making these.

  • @DreDredel3
    @DreDredel33 жыл бұрын

    I'm new to the hobby, been watching other videos, come over 30 mins worth. Learned axlot in just thos 18 mins. Thanks!

  • @fpvyln1953
    @fpvyln19533 жыл бұрын

    Your videos are very helpful. Im glad i watch them and feel more confident starting this hobby :) Could you maybe make a video escpecially for the tx16s and which batteries you use/recommend? :)Thank you so much for your awesome work 🙏😊

  • @Reloaded44
    @Reloaded443 жыл бұрын

    Man I could have used this a few weeks ago lol. Fantastic explanation one of the best I've seen on YT. I too ended up going with a TX16S to start with on a simulator. Got a new sub from me. ✌️❤️

  • @ActionMediaAndy
    @ActionMediaAndy3 жыл бұрын

    Matt! Great to see you again! I've been flying for a month now, and have some questions you night be able to answer in a other video. When do you replace props/ how often? When do motors wear out/ when will then need replacing? Do you put feet or padding on the bottom of your drone? Any recommendations for smooth landings? What should I be practicing to get better? I know I can find some of these answers elsewhere, but just wanted your opinion. Thanks bud! Can't wait for the next one!

  • @bkfpv
    @bkfpv3 жыл бұрын

    Quality stuff as always. Top notch channel👍🏻 Thank you for sharing. Btw… Starting over I would go all in on a crossfire setup from day 1.

  • @TOMTMTM
    @TOMTMTM2 жыл бұрын

    Great channel with top quality videos! Thank you!

  • @iluhaa23
    @iluhaa232 жыл бұрын

    WOW! Thank you so much for the info. It is much easier for me now

  • @intuitive_understanding
    @intuitive_understanding Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for taking the time to explain all of this. I appreciate the loads of practical information and explanation about the pros/cons/considerations of different options, instead just saying "go buy X"

  • @nesar93
    @nesar932 жыл бұрын

    Very beautifully and categorically explained!🔥❤️

  • @LarynxVoicebox
    @LarynxVoicebox Жыл бұрын

    This is the best explanation for fpv guidance so far.... Well done bro👌👌👌👌👌👌👌👌

  • @kennyma4904
    @kennyma4904 Жыл бұрын

    God bless. You still helping people like me a year later. I finally understand what the switches are for! It definitely is hard to get into this hobby because there isn't a wide selection of sources that actually goes over the terms used and what things do in the form of baby language.

  • @fg.salomon
    @fg.salomon2 жыл бұрын

    Damn bro, you go deep in all of the subjects. Tha ks for all the knowledge.

  • @ThiagoBenazziMaia
    @ThiagoBenazziMaia2 жыл бұрын

    My suggestion. Be careful when you buy to don't mistake "flysky" with "frsky". I bought a flysky and now I need to get another one.

  • @TheQbbxrxr
    @TheQbbxrxr8 ай бұрын

    You are good at explain things. thanks for the effort very helpful!

  • @scottandersen5882
    @scottandersen5882 Жыл бұрын

    Excellent video, well explained, detailed, jus EPIC!!!

  • @rbagulha1
    @rbagulha1 Жыл бұрын

    YOU ARE SUCH A GOOD TEACHER - THANK YOU A MILLION!!!!! I WILL START WITH THE CHEAP SET UP - GET BETTER WITH TIME!!!!!! TKS!

  • @ZhiYuanTu
    @ZhiYuanTu Жыл бұрын

    Came from RC aircraft. Super clear intro! Thanks a lot !!

  • @oscarjoya1673
    @oscarjoya1673 Жыл бұрын

    1:35 justo por eso empecé a ver tus vídeos, me gusta mucho como te expresas verbalmente y cuando hablas al público nuevo, me identifico mucho con lo que dices y es justo lo que busco, alguien que me guíe en mis inicios en este nuevo joby

  • @areskram
    @areskram2 жыл бұрын

    Awesome lesson, man. Thank you a lot!

  • @felixfpv7872
    @felixfpv78723 жыл бұрын

    Great Video as always Matt!

  • @svibrstv8885
    @svibrstv8885 Жыл бұрын

    Just Fantastic! Subscribed!

  • @oleg5738
    @oleg5738 Жыл бұрын

    This is just great, thank you so much! One thing I'd love to have heard is some options from other manufacturers. Otherwise, that's an awesome video to get the hang of it

  • @BatanShorts
    @BatanShorts3 жыл бұрын

    gl on 20k Matt

  • @jeremywiegand4366
    @jeremywiegand43662 жыл бұрын

    Prob the best explanation of radios on all of KZread... excellent

  • @hercule75
    @hercule753 жыл бұрын

    Like the way you make your videos and I’m brand new in fpv so cheers 🍻 !

  • @Moguandleo
    @Moguandleo10 ай бұрын

    Thanks Matt. I want to start with fpv but I was scared of all the engineering behind it. Do make these simple videos!! Thanks

  • @codswallop4012
    @codswallop40123 жыл бұрын

    Great job! Very helpful!

  • @rajtips
    @rajtips2 жыл бұрын

    Great video Matt!! Your videos are so awesome. Hey, is it possible for you to do a video on how to overcome fear and anxiety when it comes to flying an FPV drone for real? You have the perfect choice of words, patient and skills to help newbies like me. I am doing ok in the sim but not getting that confidence to go out and fly out in the open.

  • @bobs-Videos
    @bobs-Videos11 ай бұрын

    Matt, just looking into FVP from GPS droning, and after hunting for a great overview of controllers, you're the best. It's mind boggling for all the choices and you made it so clear. I have been looking at both DJI and other brands. Was wondering if the brands you've mentioned which have a module bay might have a DJI FPV compatible module? Thanks!

  • @iramthunder1143
    @iramthunder11433 жыл бұрын

    Im probably a month and a half into fpv. first started off with the betafpv advanced kit that brings the light radio, really good 100% for starting off. recently i have had a full blown custom quad built for me and a kit to go with it with hdo2 fatsharks and a tx16s and i will say so for the tx16s its a amazing radio and i 1000% recommend for any body who is looking for good top of the line radio. Also oas hobby was the guy who built it if anybody is interested he is top of the line.

  • @nickpravda3249
    @nickpravda32493 жыл бұрын

    Ohhhh... that's what I am looking for thanks for the video

  • @medienmond
    @medienmond Жыл бұрын

    update 2022: go with EdgeTX instead of OpenTX because of more features and stability, prefer ExtendedLRS as your protocol as it offers better range and quality of signal and be aware of the radiomaster gamepad-like remote being available with 4-in-1 module now. Then go with the radiomaster TX16S mark2 in the configuration you like, either with 4-in-1 module preinstalled and external ExtendedLRS module or the controller having it included from the beginning. The internal eLRS module has 250mW power, the external up to 1W, but you likely never will need that additional power anyways. Maybe it is best to start with internal eLRS, if you are going to purchase your receivers anyway when starting from scratch. The TX16S mk2 with eLRS and additional nice to have features is available for 250€.

  • @KeyBored101
    @KeyBored1012 жыл бұрын

    Very helpful info for newbies

  • @francisrevil854
    @francisrevil8542 жыл бұрын

    nice vid Matt.. thanks for this..!

  • @potatopilot1699
    @potatopilot16993 жыл бұрын

    Love your content man!

  • @RCRitterFPV
    @RCRitterFPV3 жыл бұрын

    you do a great job of clearly aggregating and explaining the foundations of the hobby, great work. I Own the BetaFPV light and Tango 2 Pro. I would really skip the BetaFPV unless you absolutely can't find another $50 I hate using it, feel like I have no control, toy grade. but it works and many cheep whoops only work on FRsky Love my Tango 2 Pro, simple design, gimbals feel great, quality feel. just wish the Tango had Multiprotocol built in for those cheap fun little whoops,

  • @joshuahayles3219
    @joshuahayles32193 жыл бұрын

    Really helpful video man, thanks a lot!

  • @MattPochwat

    @MattPochwat

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad it helped!

  • @Abhilashkp
    @Abhilashkp3 жыл бұрын

    Whenever I see KZread notification from ur channel, I stop all my work and watch ur video first..😁😁

  • @Ralleboy94
    @Ralleboy94 Жыл бұрын

    Nice! Thanks a ton! 🙌🏼

  • @NeilOutdoor
    @NeilOutdoor2 жыл бұрын

    Great video and valuable information. Althought there are new controllers in the market, the information is completely valid nowadays, so it's a great source of information when someone is looking for a controller

  • @nikotttin
    @nikotttin3 жыл бұрын

    Nice one Matt. Some comments: The betafpv has had a lot of bad press with its gimbals being odd. Secondly the lack of screen makes it a pain with multiple drones. So if you get a whoop and you grow into an outside flyer... Another comment: I bought a QX7 years ago. Learnt on it. At some point I realized that I cannot do those fast stick movements you sometimes need. Why? Because the full throw is too long. I don’t think I have small hands... or at least it is not noticeable! I switched to the Tango2 and my precision and speed on a track increased significantly... Cheers and thanks again for the beautiful videos! Lot of work go into it and the result is very good. I like the slower very clear pace. This is unique to your channel...

  • @janezhitori6203
    @janezhitori62033 жыл бұрын

    Maybe one worth to mention is also Jumper T-Lite? Cheap but with multi support + support for Crossfire module.

  • @oscarsolbakk6442

    @oscarsolbakk6442

    3 жыл бұрын

    I have it now and im super happy with everything with it! Defently recomended!!!

  • @juancgallardo

    @juancgallardo

    3 жыл бұрын

    True, many of my customers are choosing to start with the jumper t lite and they are loving it

  • @jeffclassics

    @jeffclassics

    3 жыл бұрын

    I have this tlite 4in1 ver, I cannot connect it to my geprc tinygo. Anyone have any idea how to bind? Thanks.

  • @juancgallardo

    @juancgallardo

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@jeffclassics the tiny go uses a futaba receiver which is not compatible with any multi protocol. Sorry

  • @liamdwyer4272

    @liamdwyer4272

    3 жыл бұрын

    That’s what I am waiting for to arrive

  • @tfehgaming6574
    @tfehgaming65743 жыл бұрын

    Just bought a TX16s and a Tinyhawk 2 Freestyle thanks to your videos.. Flying is harder than you make it look but thanks for the recommendations

  • @Schlaegel
    @Schlaegel3 жыл бұрын

    Great content that is accessible to newbies.

  • @haritkumar4778
    @haritkumar47788 ай бұрын

    Hey man, such a nice video. Before this video I had no idea about the controllers, now I feel confident about making a purchase decision. BTW I will be buying the TX12

  • @mindless7577
    @mindless7577 Жыл бұрын

    Great explanation! Thanks

  • @birdman316
    @birdman3163 жыл бұрын

    great video bro! i have the betafpv lite2 radio and love it! it feels precise with my bayang whoops! i also have the jumper t12 and t8sg/yellow plus the radiomaster version t8sg... im looking into the jumper t lite now...looks like a nice compact radio for travelling... the halls make a huge diff in controllability...b4 i switched out the t12 gimbals it was a mess esp right after flying the t8sg with halls hahaha!!

  • @barath2518
    @barath2518 Жыл бұрын

    wonderful description for a new guy

  • @na9er47
    @na9er472 жыл бұрын

    Thank you i learn somthing new... big like 👍👍

  • @Detonator_Prime
    @Detonator_Prime2 жыл бұрын

    New subscriber for sure mate. Your video production quality is on point. I am new to the FPV world as well so I really love going through the learning process with people like you. Thanks and keep up the great work.

  • @theesd349
    @theesd3493 жыл бұрын

    helpful content! Thanks!

  • @DroneViewPoland
    @DroneViewPoland3 жыл бұрын

    Great review 👍😉

  • @Mr_Zakss
    @Mr_Zakss2 жыл бұрын

    My favorites go to guy he is so professional and cool I love your stuff man keep it up

  • @dickysoeliantoro5576
    @dickysoeliantoro55762 жыл бұрын

    Great video, loads of knowledge. Really enjoyed watching it. Also, there are software/firmware consideration. Some have proprietary firmware, and most have opentx/edgetx firmware on it.

  • @dickysoeliantoro5576

    @dickysoeliantoro5576

    Жыл бұрын

    Hi Matt. I got a reply about winning a giveaway. Is it real? Or you account being hacked?

  • @mistermikeanson
    @mistermikeanson2 жыл бұрын

    Very helpful!

  • @hotchihuahua1546
    @hotchihuahua1546 Жыл бұрын

    Have an interest in flying a drone and learning what is best for me as a beginner . I liked your presentation and subscribed . 👍

  • @leoakimono3631
    @leoakimono3631 Жыл бұрын

    Hey,Buddy. I am a rookie who never flied real drone. I bought betafpv joystick and downloaded liftoff to play, but find it very hard. As a pro battlefield choppe, I designed a special keyboard with range, work with mouse. Not the pressure sensor type that s useless. And only after playing 25hours in liftoff, I reached world top 23 in map Hannover track 3, and then get in top 25 in other 2 maps soon. I feel this invention could totally change the controlling of vehicles on PC! Especially game like warthunders you have tons of keys to operate not convenient to use joysticks. And for drone it s really easy to get start with. And with mouse as the pitch yaw controll, you can swipe the whole room in 1sec if you mount a .22MG on the drone. I mean, in drone games:-D I contact Dji, but I feel it do more in games. I was gonna make a video about it, then contact Microsoft or Sony, But dont know if it s gonna affect the patent apply. You interested? I wanna find some reliable people see if they d love to test it.

  • @leoakimono3631

    @leoakimono3631

    Жыл бұрын

    Btw, liftoff name Tuiskua.

  • @KlemenPrepeluh
    @KlemenPrepeluh2 жыл бұрын

    Nice info. Thank You. 👍🙂

  • @raphaelc2728
    @raphaelc27283 жыл бұрын

    I would have included the Jumper T-Lite, crazy cheap, cool form factor, hall gimbals and multi-protocol transmitter. And it's powered with just a 18650 Li-ion you can charge up inside! Quite amazing for the price and to begin FPV

  • @anotherguycalledsmith
    @anotherguycalledsmith2 жыл бұрын

    Dear Matt, I hope that you will reach 100000 subscribers soon. You absolutely deserve it ;-)

  • @billmcdonald4335
    @billmcdonald43352 жыл бұрын

    My preferred form factor is mid-sized; I use an original Jumper T8SG, and I'm a thumber. It's over 3 years old, and still going strong. I like its feel, and it suits my needs.

  • @TheKencmh
    @TheKencmh Жыл бұрын

    Very good explanation

  • @mew92595
    @mew925953 жыл бұрын

    i don't drone, but i love collecting drone controllers. thanks for giving me some new ideas for my collection. xo

  • @serge1201
    @serge12013 жыл бұрын

    I fly mode 3, I started flying mode 2 with a beta fpv starter kit and it was completely unnatural to me, I crashed that thing so much that I broke it in 3 days, my brain was fighting against muscle memory built years before. I grew up playing lots of racing games, First person shooters and a saga called Ace Combat, an arcade fighting jet game found on the PSOne all the way to the PS4, played them all. With all of that muscle memory built since the 2000s I found that flying in mode 3 just felt at home and everything made sense. If you’re a gamer and are considering starting FPV I definitely recommend flying in mode 3, pitch and roll on the left, yaw and throttle on the right, that layout is what most playstation and console games have in their games

  • @skeyeball_fpv4258
    @skeyeball_fpv42583 жыл бұрын

    Another excellent video from Pochwat University! I wish I had these when I was getting into FPV. People don't know how lucky they are these days lol

  • @everytomday
    @everytomday2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! I'm surprised to intro to FPV videos don't include this basic info. Very helpful. Cheers.

  • @deadbyteDrones
    @deadbyteDrones3 жыл бұрын

    Also consider ExpressLRS as another control link. Off-the-shelf units are starting to show up...

  • @qahtanrashid3280
    @qahtanrashid32802 жыл бұрын

    The best explainery video about fpv controllers in youtube.

  • @mickswagger6086
    @mickswagger60862 жыл бұрын

    Just got the tango 2, I just started but damn, why not!!!

  • @ludvigstorm3972
    @ludvigstorm39725 ай бұрын

    i ended up buying a Tarantis Qx7 used for around 60$ i would advice everyone to look for used controllers :)

  • @gazzabyerun9048
    @gazzabyerun9048 Жыл бұрын

    😵‍💫Overwhelming for sure for someone new to it all! Thank you for doing these videos, Now there is TX 12 Mark ll ELRS, and Zorro, really would like to see you do a video on how to properly set up these type of radio's and how to bind them to different models!

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