Diving into FPV (First Person View) drones can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve created this bite-sized video series to simplify the process and help you get started in 2024 and 2025. In this first video, we’re focusing on FPV radios—choosing the right one and understanding protocols.

Why Radios Matter

Your radio is the key to controlling your drone. Picking the right one is critical to ensure compatibility, expandability, and a smooth learning experience. Radios use specific protocols, which are essentially the “languages” they communicate in. Popular protocols include:

  • Spectrum: An older standard, not as common anymore.
  • Taranis Frsky: Widely recognized but somewhat outdated.
  • Crossfire and Tracer: TBSs rock solid radio protocol. Crossfire excels at long-range FPV.
  • ELRS: Highly available, very well-liked.
  • DJI: Proprietary to DJI systems. Includes the O3-O4 ait units if using the DJI Remote. If you are using the DJI video system on your drone, you do not necessarily need to use a DJI radio to fly the drone! It is entirely dependent on if you’ve got a reciever installed (which can literally be whatever protocol YOU choose!)

Budget-Friendly vs. Advanced Radios

Basic Kits

Starter FPV kits often include a basic radio. These are cheap and easy to use but come with limitations:

  • Often use proprietary protocols.
  • Cannot be used with other drones or upgraded.
  • Limited features and durability.

ELRS-Ready Kits

Newer kits, like those from BetaFPV, often feature ELRS (ExpressLRS) protocols:

  • A versatile, accessible standard.
  • Compatible with various drones and radios.
  • Expandable with modules for advanced setups.

Expandable Radios

If you plan to grow in the hobby, invest in a radio with modular expandability:

  • Crossfire Module: By TBS, excellent for long-range control.
  • ELRS Modules: Affordable and reliable for beginners and experienced pilots alike.
  • Other options like Tracer and Ghost protocols.

Recommended FPV Radios

  1. TBS Ethix Mambo:
    • Known for its build quality and reliability.
    • Expandable with modules for Crossfire or ELRS.
    • Excellent for simulators and real-world flying.
  2. RadioMaster Boxer:
    • A newer, versatile radio with ELRS built-in.
    • Full-size, upgradeable gimbals for precise control.
    • Offers an expansion bay for additional protocols.
  3. Tango 2:
    • Compact and portable, with Crossfire built-in.
    • Ideal for those who prefer a smaller, game-controller feel.
  4. RadioMaster Pocket:
    • Compact and portable, with ELRS built-in.
    • Ideal for those on a budget who prefer a smaller, game-controller feel.
my radio of choice, Ethix Mambo

Simulators: A Must for Beginners

Before flying, practice on a simulator to save on repair costs. Recommended simulators include:

  • FPV Logic
  • Velocidrone
  • DRL Simulator
  • Liftoff

Most modern radios, like the TBS Mambo, connect easily via USB-C, making them compatible with simulators.

DJI Systems

If you choose DJI drones, note that their radios are locked to their ecosystem. DJI’s air units and motion controllers are beginner-friendly but lack the flexibility of open systems like ELRS or Crossfire.

Final Thoughts

For beginners, I recommend starting with an ELRS-capable radio, such as the RadioMaster Boxer. It’s affordable, expandable, and future-proof. As you gain experience, explore additional protocols and upgrades.

Stay tuned for the next video in this playlist series, where we’ll dive into other essential FPV topics to get you flying confidently in no time!