Remote Control Helicopters for Beginners
Remote-controlled helicopters aren’t as common as planes, drones, and other RC models. It wasn’t until later in the 1990s that the first mass-produced RC helicopters became available. Today, we have plenty of choices.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| Syma S107 3CH RC Heli |
| 4.6/5.0 |
| Flight Time: 6–8 minutes |
| Flight Range: 30 feet |
| 3-channels, safe indoors, built-in gyro, speed controller, three motors. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Syma S109G RC Heli |
| 4.5/5.0 |
| Flight Time: 5–6 minutes |
| Flight Range: 30 feet |
| Indoor copter, durable, bright LED lights, stable flyer, super-fast charging time. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| NiGHT LiONS TECH Large V912 |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Flight Time: 8–minutes |
| Flight Range: 492 feet |
| Durable build, nice size, long travel servos, tail spur gears, bell rotor head. |
| Check Amazon |
The Best Hobby RC Helicopters for Beginners
In general, radio-controlled choppers are harder to pilot than RC fixed wing planes and quadcopter drones. That’s why the industry promotes the use of coaxial models for novice flyers. Coaxial helis have a shared axis. The models have two sets of rotors on a concentric shaft, one above the other. The design makes the copter more stable and thus has a shallower learning curve for beginners.
Not everyone is a fan of the coaxial style. Most model enthusiasts prefer replica single-rotor helicopters as they look more authentic than double rotors. You can also have more fun flying them, especially when it comes to aerobatics. Even so, it’s a good idea to start with a multi-rotor craft if you’re a total novice.
RC Helicopter Vs. RC Planes
Pilots fly both radio-controlled helicopters and electric planes using a transmitter. The difference is in the look and performance of these models. There are lots of varieties with both types too. The reason helicopters are so popular, though, is that the experience is more challenging and rewarding. Collective pitch (CP) choppers are the most exhilarating to fly, but they’re also the hardest to master.
Things to Consider
It can be overwhelming for beginners to know what to buy from all the models available. A fixed budget helps to narrow down the choices, but there’s more to know about this hobby than costs. What you don’t want to do is buy something based purely on the way it looks.
Here are six things to consider before you shop for a beginner’s RC helicopter:
- Maximum amount to spend
- Number of channels (see below)
- Flight stability and other user-friendly characteristics
- Readily available spares (important)
- Flight time
- Battery charging time
Three & Four Channel (CH) RC Helicopters
RC copters must have four channels or more to have full control in all directions. A total beginner may want to use a 3-channel to start with, especially younger pilots. Some entry-level users prefer to learn with three channels (3CH). They provide left/right spin, up/down movements, and throttle control. A 3-channel heli is uncomplicated and an excellent way for first-timers to get comfortable with flying.
Older and advanced beginners may want to skip the simplicity of a 3CH heli and go for 4-channels. The difference is in the left/right movements. The extra motion allows the model to move left and right without the spin action. They call this the aileron slide. It all sounds simple enough, but it’s not. These sideways movements can be tricky, especially if the model doesn’t have any stabilization.
Helicopters with 5+ channels offer even more flight control, but that’s nothing for this guide. I’d also suggest you skip 2-channel models because the restrictions make them boring to fly.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the primary controls found on a 4-channel copter:
- Throttle: controls the speed of the motor
- Rudder (yaw): controls the direction or turn of the heli
- Elevator (pitch): forward and back tilt
- Aileron (roll): sideways tilt
Other Considerations
Flight stability is essential at the beginner level, especially for younger pilots. It allows the aircraft to automatically steady itself so you can concentrate on the flying. All the models on this page have built-in gyro stabilization systems. These RC helicopters are also favorite beginner models in the community. That means they’re easy to learn and spare parts and accessories are readily available.
Some batteries are built-in, and others are replaceable. That brings me onto the next point about flight times and battery charging times. The makers note flight times in minutes, and they can range from 5-12. That’s not long, but it’s about as good as it gets. You may want to order extra batteries for models that let you swap. Make sure the charging time is short for built-in (non-removable) battery copters.
Battery charging times for these beginner models takes between 20–60 minutes. That’s reasonably fast in RC terms, so you don’t have to wait too long before you’re airborne again.
About My Guide
This simple guide gets straight to the point. You won’t find any fluff or unnecessary jargon in these mini-reviews. Please make sure you read the introduction above if you’re a total newbie to RC helicopters. The seven picks here are all excellent models for complete and advanced beginners. I made this list based on the opinions of industry experts, user reviews, and personal thoughts.
The first three RC helicopters are in order of Best Budget, Best Value, and Top pick. The models below those are in price order, starting with the least expensive first.
The table below shows the seven remote-controlled helicopters as they appear on this page:
Remote Control Helicopters for Beginners Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Flight Time | Flight Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Syma S107 3 Channel RC Helicopter for Kids | 6–8 minutes | 30 feet | Check Price |
| Syma S109G RC Helicopter for Learners | 5–6 minutes | 30 feet | Check Price |
| NiGHT LiONS TECH WL Large RC Kids Chopper | 8–minutes | 492 feet | Check Price |
| REALACC FQ777-610 3.5CH Mini RC Helicopter | 8–minutes | 39 feet | Check Price |
| VATOS RC Starter Electric Helicopter for Kids | 6–7 minutes | 49 feet | Check Price |
| Protocol Predator SB Helicopter | 8–10 minutes | 100 feet | Check Price |
| UDI U13A Metal Frame Copter w/ Camera | 7–8 minutes | 500 feet | Check Price |
1. Syma S107 3CH RC Helicopter for Kids | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The popular Syma S107 is a 3-channel mini co-axial RC helicopter with friendly features for Kids. It’s a great introduction to radio-controlled copters, and it’s safe to fly indoors.
- Best feature 1: Miniature size, lightweight, low power
- Best feature 2: Ideal craft for beginners to learn flying skills
- Plus points: 3-channels, safe indoors, built-in gyro, speed controller, three motors
- Minus points: Shortish flying time, infrared control
There are many reasons why this model helicopter is an ideal choice for kids. It’s not big, heavy, or complicated, so that gives it a safe start for any concerned parent. It’s reasonably crash-resistant too, thanks in part to the metal frame. The Syma S107 also has a bunch of stable flight characteristics that make flying fun and easy to pilot at the beginner level.
S107 Stable Flight Characteristics
This toy RC helicopter comes with a built-in gyroscope that stabilizes it in flight. It does an excellent job at steadying the craft too. There’s also the high-precision speed controller that works on autopilot. What the speed controller does is stabilize the propeller system during liftoff. This model has three motors (a third in the tail) that work in harmony to provide a smooth, stable flying experience.
You won’t be doing too many fancy stunts with this model, but that’s the point. Its stability features make it less agile yet safe and simple as a trainer toy. The flight control allows young pilots to take the craft up/down, forward/back, left/right, and make turns. Flying time is around 6–8 minutes on a full battery which is short but average. Charging time is a fast 30 minutes.
It’s an affordable RC helicopter, and that’s what you want with a beginner model. After all, the learner pilot doesn’t know yet whether he or she will take to the hobby.
The Not So Good
The S107’s play time is only 6–8 minutes. That’s typical for a toy model, but it still means short flights. The good news is the fast charging time. Many RC pilots buy an extra battery to avoid the wait caused by recharging. Always allow a few minutes for the motors to cooldown between battery swaps.
The other disadvantage is the infra-red control. Other infrared remote controls in the home might interfere with the signal. The secret is to play away from other potential interference devices.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: Co-axial 3CH training RC helicopter |
| Dimensions: 8.7 x 3.9 x 1.5″ |
| Product Weight: 12 oz. |
| Recommended Age: 8–14 years |
| Range: 30 ft. (10m) |
| Battery: 3.7v lithium polymer |
| Charging time: 30+ minutes |
| Flight Duration: 6–8 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Good looking copter, appealing design for kids |
| Miniature size, lightweight |
| Perfect for beginners |
| 3-channels |
| Safe to fly indoors |
| Built-in gyro |
| Effective prop speed controller |
| Three motors for added stability |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Shortish flying time |
| Infrared control may conflict with home remote controls |
2. Syma S109G RC Helicopter for Learners | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Best Value pick is also a Syma, but this is an entirely different model from the first pick. The S109G is a 3.5 channel RC helicopter with Gyro stabilization.
- Best feature 1: Flies in six directions
- Best feature 2: Striking details help it to stand out
- Plus points: Indoor copter, durable, bright LED lights, stable flyer, super-fast charging time
- Minus points: Poor flight time, infrared control
The Army-style and details of this chopper give it a striking appeal. It’s also a model designed for flying indoors only. That makes it a safe toy, but it’s also a hardship for young pilots who want to play outside. The infrared control prevents outdoor use (see below).
The Syma S109G RC helicopter is an excellent palm-sized learner craft. It has a useful built-in gyro for stabilization and can fly in six directions. The flight directions are rotate clockwise/anti-clockwise, move forward/backward, and up & down.
Flying in the dark is possible thanks to the bright flashing LEDs. Night flights add extra appeal and challenge learner pilots more so than flying in daylight. Another plus point is the robust build of this little copter aircraft. After all, every RC heli pilot has a few crashes and collisions. Crash-resistance is a vital feature as you don’t have to worry as much about spares, accessories, and repairs.
The Not So Good
The maximum flight time is a disappointing 5–6 minutes. At least the charging time is a pleasing 20–30 minutes. You can also buy a spare battery if you don’t want to wait. Remember to always allow the motor to cool down for 10 minutes between battery swaps.
The other downside is the infrared (IR) control. The problem here is that it can conflict with other household IR remotes if they’re used within range. Infrared also restricts flying outdoors as the sun’s rays can interfere with the controller. That means it’s best to fly the craft in uncluttered indoor spaces.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: 3.5HH Co-axial US military helicopter |
| Dimensions: 16.7 x 7.3 x 3.5″ |
| Product Weight: 14.1 oz. |
| Recommended Age: 8 years or younger under supervision |
| Range: 30 ft. (10m) |
| Battery: 3.7V 150mAH Li-poly |
| Charging time: 20–30 minutes |
| Flight Duration: 5–6 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Palm-sized army chopper |
| Flies in six directions |
| Striking attention to detail |
| Sable flyer w/ built-in gyro |
| Safe indoor copter |
| Durable, crash-resistant build |
| Bright LED lights for night flights |
| Super-fast charging time |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Poor flight time |
| Infrared control restrictions |
3. NiGHT LiONS TECH WL Large Chopper | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
Meet the NiGHT LiONS TECH Large V912. It’s a popular 4-channel RC helicopter with outstanding gyro stability. The V912 is a good-looking bird which adds further to its overall appeal.
- Best feature 1: Outstanding stability
- Best feature 2: Excellent outdoor RC Chopper
- Plus points: Durable build, nice size, long travel servos, tail spur gears, bell rotor head
- Minus points: Shortish flying time, price
It’s a bigger craft than the first two picks, and it’s suitable for flying outdoors. The heavy blades and long fly bar (also flybar) add further to its stabilization and wind-resistance. The V912 also has long travel servos to improve agility and tail spurs that enhance rudder control. Another reason this single rotor heli is an ideal beginner craft is its bell rotor head.
The Benefit of the Bell Rotor Head
Most single-rotor model helicopters are difficult for beginners to fly as they’re too agile. That’s not the case with this model because of its bell rotor head. It lets novice users change the actual placement of the flybar from its usual 90° to 45° of the main blade. That results in a 50% less agile, slower helicopter, and is thus much easier to fly at the entry level.
The Not So Good
The main disadvantage is the familiar short battery life or flying time. You can expect just 8-minutes in perfect flying conditions. The charging time—though not bad at 60-minutes—takes double the time of first two picks. Therefore, most owners spend a few extra dollars on extra batteries. The NiGHT LiONS TECH is excellent value but may prove too pricey for some as a learner model.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: Large Single Blades RC copter w/ bell rotor head |
| Dimensions: 20.1 x 5.5 x 9.8″ |
| Product Weight: 10.7 oz. |
| Recommended Age: 14 years or younger under supervision |
| Range: 492 ft. (150m) |
| Battery: 7.4V 1500mAh |
| Charging time: 60 minutes |
| Flight Duration: 8 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Cool design |
| Outstanding stability |
| Outdoor capable RC Chopper |
| Durable build, crash resistant |
| Large size |
| Long travel servos |
| Tail spur gears |
| Bell rotor head for reduced agility |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Shortish flying time |
| High price for beginner craft |
4. REALACC FQ777-610 3.5CH Mini RC Helicopter
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The REALACC FQ777-610 is a superb palm-sized RC helicopter for beginners. It’s a simple ready-to-fly (RTF) model that’s good to go right out of its box.
- Best feature 1: Outdoor flight
- Best feature 2: Latest gyroscope technology
- Plus points: Detailed display, crash-resistant, streamlined fuselage, fast charging time
- Minus points: Low average flight time, poor manual
Affordable mini RC choppers don’t get much better than this. The model’s gyroscope technology helps to keep it steady in flight. It also stands up to impact pretty well in a crash. That’s because the build includes a high-composite material and stainless steel in its construction.
The streamlined fuselage looks great and adds to the aerodynamics. Air dynamics play a significant role in any flying model as they reduce air resistance. That means faster flights and improved power efficiency. The most notable thing about this capable model, though, is that it’s super easy to fly. And the 10-12-meter range ensures it stays within the user’s line of sight (LOS).
The Not So Good
The only gripe is the low average flying time of around 8-minutes and the poorly translated manual. USB charging only takes 30 minutes, so that reduces the short flying time frustration. But scant user manuals are common issues with smaller toys. It’s annoying because RC model makers could easily avoid poorly-translated guides by hiring professional translators.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: Coaxial rotor RC beginner’s helicopter |
| Dimensions: 9.6 x 5.7 x 3.9″ |
| Product Weight: 9.4 oz. |
| Recommended Age: 14 years or younger under supervision |
| Range: 39 ft. (12m) |
| Battery: 3.7V 120mAh |
| Charging time: 30–50 minutes |
| Flight Duration: 8 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Cool aerodynamics design w/ streamlined fuselage |
| Indoors & outdoor flights |
| Excellent beginner copter |
| Latest gyroscope technology |
| Detailed display |
| Crash-resistant |
| Fast charging time |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Low average flight time |
| Poorly translated manual |
5. VATOS RC Starter Electric Helicopter for Kids
Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5
Fifth on the list is the capable and affordable Micro VATOS 3.5CH MINI RC Flying Helicopter for beginners. It’s small, light, and stable in the air thanks to the decent built-in gyro.
- Best feature 1: Built-in gyro, auto-stable
- Best feature 2: Meets US and EU high standards
- Plus points: Easy to fly, 3 motors, perfect hover, LED lights, two charging options
- Minus points: Poor flight time, infrared control, obscure manual
Parents are always happy to see a toy product that meets high safety standards. The VATOS RC Starter Helicopter has passed several tests including FCC and CE to name two of several. The heli has 3.5 channels, so it’s possible to fly more than one model at a time without interference. This is another co-axial helicopter (two sets of rotors). Co-axial choppers are less agile and easier for beginners.
Flying the VATOS RC Mini Micro
This tiny model is for indoor flights only. That’s because it’s small, lightweight, and uses an infrared control system. It’s a great little flyer with an excellent hover feature. Stable hovering is ideal for beginner pilots as it takes the pressure off and gives them time to think. The LED lights add a fun aspect for kids who enjoy flying their chopper in the dark.
Fast charging is another advantage and takes between 40–50 minutes depending on how you charge it. There are two options, the transmitter or USB. I’d suggest the USB every time as charging via the controller is sure to drain its six AA batteries faster. USB charging is also the quickest option.
The Not So Good
VATOS has the maximum flying time down as 12 minutes, but that’s overly optimistic. I’d say half that, 6–7 minutes, is a far more realistic figure, which is on the low side of average.
The infrared control restricts flying to indoors as there’s too much interference outside. There can also be interference inside with other infrared controls like the TV remote, for example. That means you should consider a safe, interference-free area to fly. And finally, there are complaints that VATOS hasn’t translated the user manual very well, making it difficult to follow in parts.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: Co-axial 3.5CH training RC helicopter |
| Dimensions: 10.1 x 6.3 x 4.5″ |
| Product Weight: 17.6 oz. |
| Recommended Age: 12 years or younger with supervision |
| Range: 49 ft. (15m) |
| Battery: 3.7V 250mAh Li-Poly |
| Charging time: 40–50 minutes |
| Flight Duration: 6–7 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Built-in gyro, auto-stable |
| Meets US and EU high standards |
| Easy to use (fly) at beginner level |
| Three motors for added stability |
| Perfect hover function |
| LED lights for flying in the dark |
| Two charging options; transmitter and USB |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short max flight time |
| Infrared control |
| Poorly translated user manual |
6. Protocol Predator SB Electric Helicopter
Editor’s Rating: 4.1/5
The Predator SB is a larger RC helicopter with motion-sensitive stabilizers and a built-in electronic gyro. The size of this craft gives pilots a more realistic flight experience.
- Best feature 1: Auto stabilizers (motion-sensitive)
- Best feature 2: Built-in electronic gyro
- Plus points: Two speeds, crash-resistant, 2.4Ghz transmitter, AC charger, spares included
- Minus points: Short flight time, long charging time
Protocol has an entire fleet of RC helicopters, and the 3.5 CH Predator SB is its finest. The two speed controls let this bird fly through the air with impressive agility and pace. Full flight maneuvers include forward/reverse, up/down, and left/right. The chopper’s remote is a high-performance 2.4Ghz transmitter. The controller has an LCD screen and audible tones for easy trim adjustments.
Predator’s SB RC helicopter comes with a faster AC charger. That’s just as well considering the long battery charging time (see below). You may want to invest in extra batteries if you choose this model.
The Not So Good
The larger size, power, and affordable price of the Predator SB come at a cost. Yes, it’s heaps of fun to fly this puppy, few would doubt that. Alas, the enjoyment is short-lived at just 8–10 minutes— depending on conditions. The longish 80+ minutes of charging time add further to the frustration.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: Larger outdoor RC 2.4 GHz 3.5 channel copter |
| Dimensions: 21 x 15.6 x 6.2″ |
| Product Weight: 2.6 lbs. |
| Recommended Age: 14 years or younger with supervision |
| Range: 100 ft. (30m) |
| Battery: Inbuild (removeable) 6182-2J |
| Charging time: 80+ minutes |
| Flight Duration: 8–10 minutes |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Beautiful large-sized model |
| Motion-sensitive auto stabilizers |
| Built-in electronic gyro |
| Two controllable speeds |
| Sturdy build, crash-resistant |
| 2.4Ghz transmitter |
| AC battery charger |
| Spares included |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short flight time |
| Long charging time |
7. UDI U13A 2.4GHz Metal Frame Copter w/ Camera
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
This is the sleek UDI U13A, an easy-to-fly helicopter with a built-in gyro. The model has a metal frame and is the only chopper in this guide to include a small onboard video camera.
- Best feature 1: Video camera
- Best feature 2: 3-axis gyro
- Plus points: Easy to fly, outdoor capable, metal frame, crash-resistant, overcharging protection
- Minus points: Short flight time, useless in the wind, price
Okay, so the tiny camera won’t win any awards on the quality front. Despite this, it’s a great introduction to aerial photography and videography. The camera certainly adds a fun element to flying this beauty. It doesn’t take long to master the heli within a range of about 500 ft. (152m).
Its simple 3-channels makes it an excellent choice for beginners. The control options provide up/down, forward/back, and clockwise/anti-clockwise maneuvers. The UDI U13A is a tough little bird too, thanks to its metal alloy frame, elasticated blades, and flybar.
The Not So Good
The flight time is only 7–8 minutes on a full battery (consider buying spares), and charging takes about an hour. There is charging protection for the LiPo battery that helps to prolong its lifespan.
This small copter flies just fine outside but only on a still day. It’s almost impossible to control outdoors when the wind picks up. UDI’s U13A camera copter is a popular beginner’s heli, but it’s not your cheapest option. You may want to skip this model unless you plan to use its onboard camera.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Helicopter Type: Co-axial 3.5CH training RC helicopter |
| Dimensions: 7.5 x 7.5 x 7.5″ |
| Product Weight: 2.2 lbs. |
| Recommended Age: 12 years or younger with supervision |
| Range: 500 ft. (152m) |
| Battery: 3.7V 580mah |
| Charging time: 50–60 minutes |
| Flight Duration: 7–8 minute |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Onboard video camera |
| 3-axis gyro to stabilize flights |
| Easy for beginners to pilot |
| Outdoor capable |
| Metal frame and elastic blades improve crash-resistance |
| overcharging protection |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Shortish flight time |
| Useless in the wind |
| High price compared to non-camera model helicopters |
Contents
- The Best Hobby RC Helicopters for Beginners
- RC Helicopter Vs. RC Planes
- Things to Consider
- Three & Four Channel (CH) RC Helicopters
- Other Considerations
- About My Guide
- Remote Control Helicopters for Beginners Comparison Table
- 1. Syma S107 3CH RC Helicopter for Kids | Best Budget
- S107 Stable Flight Characteristics
- The Not So Good
- 2. Syma S109G RC Helicopter for Learners | Best Value
- The Not So Good
- 3. NiGHT LiONS TECH WL Large Chopper | Top Pick
- The Benefit of the Bell Rotor Head
- The Not So Good
- 4. REALACC FQ777-610 3.5CH Mini RC Helicopter
- The Not So Good
- 5. VATOS RC Starter Electric Helicopter for Kids
- Flying the VATOS RC Mini Micro
- The Not So Good
- 6. Protocol Predator SB Electric Helicopter
- The Not So Good
- 7. UDI U13A 2.4GHz Metal Frame Copter w/ Camera
- The Not So Good