7 Best RC Military Helicopters for Kids
This guide reviews 7 RC military helicopters for kids and family fun. They make excellent first-time whirlybirds, and most are indoor-friendly fliers. There are few things to consider when buying these helis. The first point to note is that none of them fly for long on a single charge. That’s typical for most RC choppers, not only the toy-grade models.
Look also at charging times and the cost of spare batteries if they’re swappable. An extra battery or two lets you continue the fun while the dead one recharges. That said, it’s always a good idea to let the tiny motors cool down for a few minutes between flights. Your model lasts much longer when you do.
Budget |
---|
Helicopter King RC Military Heli |
4.5/5.0 |
Type: Coaxial |
Channels: 3.5 Channels |
6-axis stabilizing gyro and bright LED lights. |
Check Ebay |
Best Value |
---|
VATOS Mini Military RC Heli |
4.7/5.0 |
Type: Coaxial |
Channels: 3.5 Channels |
Gyroscope technology and bright blue LEDs. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
---|
FX070C MD500 Scale Heli |
4.8/5.0 |
Type: Fixed Pitch |
Channels: 4 Channels |
Anti-collision balls, 6-axis gyro, and decent range. |
Check Banggood |
Coaxial RC Helicopters Defined
Most of the models reviewed here are of the coaxial variety. They have two rotors, one above the other on the main shaft. Two rotors make them much easier to fly at the beginner level. Coaxial helis don’t usually have a tail rotor, but they’re incredibly stable. That makes them ideal for indoor flights. Young pilots don’t need to develop any special skills to operate these models.
Some users find coaxial models boring after a while. That’s because they have what we call a narrow performance envelope. They can’t do fancy flight maneuvers or aerobatics. Many toy-grade models use infrared (IR) remote controllers. IR doesn’t function outdoors under bright sunlight. Cons aside, these helis are ideal for beginners and perfect for indoor fun on bad weather days.
Fixed Pitch Vs. Collective Pitch
Other types of RC helis are fixed pitch (FP) with one rotor, and collective pitch (CP), also with one rotor. Coaxial helis are mostly fixed pitch as well, but with two rotors. FP models also have a tail rotor and can perform some basic aerobatics. CP helicopters are sporty, stunt capable, and most can even fly in blustery conditions. They’re the hardest to master and the most expensive to buy.
About My ‘RC Military Helicopter’s Guide
I chose military-style helicopters as they’re more entertaining than regular types. Kids can take these birds on special missions with a little imagination. There are 7 mini-reviews here for the current favorites. I also used consumer feedback as well as personal experience before finalizing the list. The first three on the page are my choice for Best Budget, Best Value, and the Top Pick.
RC Military Helicopters for Kids Comparison Table
Make and Model | Type | Channels | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Helicopter King RC Military Chopper | Coaxial | 3.5 Channels | Check Price |
VATOS Mini Military RC Helicopter for Kids | Coaxial | 3.5 Channels | Check Price |
FX070C MD500 Scale RC Helicopter | Fixed Pitch | 4 Channels | Check Price |
Air Combat RC Helicopter | Coaxial | 3.5 Channels | Check Price |
WLtoys V398 Missile Shooting RC Helicopter | Coaxial | 3.5 Channels | Check Price |
Syma S109G Military RC Heli by TM USA | Coaxial | 3.5 Channels | Check Price |
World Tech Toys Camo Hercules RC Gyro Heli | Coaxial | 3.5 Channels | Check Price |
1. Helicopter King RC Military Chopper | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The Best Budget military RC heli goes to the coaxial Helicopter King made from plastic and alloy. It’s a 3.5 channel 2.4GHz model with a 6-axis stabilizing gyro for better flight control.
What We Like About the Helicopter King
This toy-grade military-style chopper is a superb first-time heli for young pilots. Available flight controls include rise, fall, turn left, turn right, forward, backward, and hover. The bird has bright LED lights that add to its appeal and let you fly in the dark. Another neat feature—considering it’s a budget end toy—is the adjustable speed control. And the USB charging is fast at less than an hour.
In the box of a new Military King RC helicopter:
- Military king coaxial heli w/ flight battery
- 3.5CH remote controller
- USB cable for charging
- 3 x propellers
- Screwdriver
The controller is simple to use and takes 6 AA batteries (not included). The remote control distance is around 33ft or 10m, which is about right for a toy in this category.
The Not So Good
The flight time—though typical—is disappointing at 6–8 minutes max. Extra batteries cost around $8 or less and let you continue the fun while the other is on a charge. Allow the small motor to cool down for a few minutes between each flight, though.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Coaxial military heli |
Dimensions: 12.2 x 2.95 x 4.92” |
Product Weight: 21.1 oz. |
Max Range: 32.8ft (10 meters) |
Battery: 3.7V 300mAh LiPo |
Max Flight Time: 6-8 minutes |
Charging Time: 50+ minutes |
Makers Suggested Age: Xxx |
The Pros |
---|
Affordable 3.5Ch RC Heli |
6-axis stabilizing gyro |
Bright LED lights |
Adjustable speed control |
Fast, USB charging |
Decent range—for a toy |
Value for money |
The Cons |
---|
Short flight time |
2. VATOS Mini Military Kids Helicopter | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The VATOS Alloy Mini military-style 3.5 channel coaxial helicopter makes the Bests Value pick. It’s a stable, coaxial craft with a smart red and gray finish. Kids can fly this bird indoors or outside.
What We Like About the VATOS Mini Heli
This tiny model is easy to fly, super light, and durable. That means it holds up well to accidental crashes and hard landings. The model arrives ready to fly (RTF), so no assembly needed. Gyroscope stabilizing technology makes it a perfect chopper for first-timers. Available flight controls are up/down, forward/backward, and left/right. And the bright blue LEDs allow pilots to fly in the dark.
In the box of a new VATOS Mini RC helicopter:
- VATOS RC mini military heli w/ flight battery
- 3.5CH remote controller
- USB battery charging cable
- 2 x link buttons
- 2 x spare blades
- Tail propeller
- Instruction booklet
- Screwdriver
The infrared (IR) remote controller is small and lightweight, so it’s perfect for kids hands. It takes 6 AA batteries (not included). The control range is around 39ft (12m) in ideal conditions.
The Not So Good
The VATOS Mini chopper flies outdoors, but only on overcast, windless days. It’s infrared (IR) remote control can’t maintain reliable contact under bright sunlight. It’s also ultra-light, so anything above a gentle breeze makes it uncontrollable. Thus, it’s better suited as an indoor toy. Flight time is only 7 minutes, so consider extra batteries. The USB charging is fast, though, at around 30+ minutes.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Coaxial military heli |
Dimensions: 10.5 x 5.8 x 4.5” |
Product Weight: 1.65 oz. |
Max Range: 39ft (12 meters) |
Battery: 3.7V 250mAh LiPo |
Max Flight Time: 7 minutes |
Charging Time: 30+ minutes |
Makers Suggested Age: |
The Pros |
---|
Excellent value RC helicopter |
Ready to fly (RTF) model |
Perfect for beginners |
Lightweight yet durable |
Gyroscope technology |
Bright blue LEDs |
The Cons |
---|
Infrared (IR) controller |
Too light to fly in the wind |
Short flight time |
3. FX070C MD500 Scale RC Helicopter | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
Meet the FX070C MD500. It’s a 4CH scale RC flybarless army-style heli with superb workmanship. Consider this model if you appreciate realistic modeling as much as flying capabilities.
What We Like About the FX070C MD500
The FX070C MD500 is a large-scale fixed pitch (FP) RC helicopter. That means it has a wider performance envelope than the first two picks. It looks fantastic, and most new owners are sure to be impressed as they unbox this bird. It sports a 6-axis gyro and some exciting flight characteristics.
Flying the FX070C MD500
This military helicopter can accomplish 4-channel actions and achieve various stunts. Maneuvers include up/down, left/right, forward/backward, left sideward/right sideward, and hover. The bird responds well to stick controls with no noticeable delays. It’s a single blade chopper and thus takes more skill than coaxial helis. The instructions are clear and detailed, and a must-read for novices.
In the box of a new FX070C MD500 RC helicopter:
- FX070C scale heli w/ flight battery
- 4CH remote controller
- Battery charger
- Detailed user guide
The operating range is around 164ft (50m). Think of the FX070C MD500 fixed pitch (FP) as a stepping stone. It’s a worthy model that sits well between coaxial and collective pitch RC helicopters. An upgraded transmitter might be worth considering, though (see below).
The Not So Good
The transmitter looks okay, but it feels cheap to the touch for a product in this price category. It even has 4 fake buttons along the bottom and an artificial antenna for cosmetic appearance. Fortunately, the helicopter doesn’t share its tawdry construction. The flight time is horrible at just 8 minutes max. The battery compartment is tight, so there’s no room for a bigger one unless you make modifications.
Battery charging is also long at about 210 minutes or 3.5 hours, so spares are must-have extras.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Fixed pitch RC heli |
Dimensions: 24.1 x 10.4 x 9.6” |
Product Weight: 24.1 oz. |
Max Range: 164ft (50 meters) |
Battery: 11.1V 1100mAh lithium |
Max Flight Time: 8 minutes |
Charging Time: 210 minutes |
Makers Suggested Age: 14+ years |
The Pros |
---|
Large scale heli, great details |
Ready to fly (RTF) model |
Clear instructions |
Anti-collision balls |
6-axis gyro |
Decent range |
Bright blue LEDs |
The Cons |
---|
Cheap transmitter |
Short flight time |
Long charging time |
Overly tight battery compartment |
4. Air Combat Radio Control Helicopter
Editor’s Rating: 4.1/5
This model is the Air Combat RC helicopter. The interesting thing about it is the realistic flight stick controller. It’s super easy to fly and lots of fun to boot. Let’s take a closer look.
What We Like About the Air Combat Heli
It’s an RC coaxial heli built for playing aerial combat games. The remote control has a built-in gyro that’s unique for toy-grade choppers. It works like the flying stick on a real whirlybird. You grip it, and then move in any direction. The airborne heli then follows your movements. There’s even a fire button to play infrared battle games if you have two or more of these birds in the air.
In the box of a new Air Combat helicopter:
- Indoor Air Combat heli
- Unique IR Flight Stick controller
- USB charger
- User manual
The game works by trying to shoot your enemy in the sky. Once any of the battling choppers receives 3 hits, it lands automatically. That’s flying fun for the entire family to enjoy. The flight time is also impressive and can range from 20–30 minutes. These Air Combat choppers are super easy to operate for entry-level pilots. They’re durable too and don’t easily break on impact like some models.
The Not So Good
No one can argue that these helis are a lot of fun and quite unique. However, some user feedback talks of poor support if something goes wrong. OK, so they’re only cheap toys. Still, the quality of after-sales service is a vital buying consideration for products at any price range.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Coaxial RC battle heli |
Dimensions: 12.8 x 4.3 x 12” |
Product Weight: 14.4 oz. |
Max Range: Not specified (short) |
Battery: Built-in rechargeable |
Max Flight Time: 20–30 minutes |
Charging Time: 30+ minutes |
Makers Suggested Age: 12+ years |
The Pros |
---|
Easy to fly/play at entry-level |
Realistic flight stick controller |
Combat game feature |
Up to 8 players can join in |
2 speed modes |
Durable build, crash-resistant |
Long flight time |
Fast charging time |
The Cons |
---|
Poor after-sales support |
5. WLtoys V398 Missile Shooting RC Helicopter
Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5
WLtoys V398 is an affordable 3.5 channel, missile-shooting RC coaxial helicopter. It comes with 6 rapid-fire projectiles and provides heaps of fun for kids or the entire family.
What We Like About the V398 Missile Heli
This toy-grade RC helicopter is well-made and has a durable build with solid materials. It’s also easy for first-time heli pilots to control thanks to the coaxial structure and stabilizing-gyro. This little bird benefits from 3D omnidirectional flight. Maneuvers include ascend/descend, forward/backward, and left turn/right turn. Airframe LEDs add an extra layer of fun for those who like to fly in the dark.
In the box of a new V398 Missile helicopter:
- V398 missile-hooting heli
- IR remote controller
- USB charging cable
- 2 x main props
- 2 x tail props
- 8 x missiles
- User manual (English & Chinese)
The heli has special LED light effects when shooting missiles. The maximum 10 minute flight time is a tad longer than similar models. However, you can half that if you stay in constant battle mode. Battery charging is fast at only 30–45 minutes. And the control range is adequate at around 32ft (10m).
The Not So Good
This model RC heli—like others on the page—uses an infrared signal. That means you must keep the IR controller pointing directly at the bird for it to work. Direct sunlight also interferes with the IR signal, so no flying outside on bright sunny days.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Coaxial battle heli |
Dimensions: 9.2 x 3.9 x 2.8” |
Product Weight: 17.44 oz. |
Max Range: 33ft (10 meters) |
Battery: 3.7V 240mAh Lipo |
Max Flight Time: 10 minutes |
Charging Time: 30-45 minutes |
Makers Suggested Age: 14+ years |
The Pros |
---|
Affordable, fun RC heli |
Durable, ABS material |
Shoots missiles |
LED lighting effects |
Decent flight time |
Fast charging time |
The Cons |
---|
Infrared control restrictions |
6. Syma S109G Military RC Helicopter by TM USA
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The penultimate pick goes to the 6 Syma S109G. It’s a coaxial design, military RC helicopter that looks ready for the next combat mission. It’s an excellent choice for indoor games and entertainment.
What We Like About Syma’s S109G Military Heli
Syma’s S109G is a 3.5 channel RC whirlybird with gyro stability. It’s palm-sized but looks much bigger in the ads, so be mindful of that. Its small size and light weight also make it ideal for indoor combat missions. Pilots get to maneuver the S109G in 6 directions. They are, up/down clockwise/anti-clockwise rotation, forward, and backward. LED lights on either side allow safe flying in the dark
In the box of a new Syma’s S109G helicopter:
- Syma’s S109G IR RC heli
- IR remote controller
- USB charging cable
- Tail blade
- Operating instructions
The S109G’s control range is typical at around 26ft (8m). Battery charging is fast at only 40 minutes or less, so it’s a short wait between missions. Flight time is less impressive, though (see below).
The Not So Good
Charging is fast, but flight time averages at around 6 minutes, so extra batteries are still a good idea. This heli uses an infrared controller that restricts its use to indoors only on sunny days.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Coaxial combat heli |
Dimensions: 16.7 x 7.3 x 3.5” |
Product Weight: 14.1 oz. |
Max Range: 26+ ft. (8+ m) |
Battery: 3.7V 150mAH Li-poly |
Max Flight Time: 6 minutes |
Charging Time: 40 minutes or less |
Makers Suggested Age: 8+ years |
The Pros |
---|
Easy control for beginners |
Ideal for indoor use |
Flies in 6 directions |
Attention to details |
Sable flyer w/ gyro |
Durable, crash-resistant |
Bright LED lights |
Fast charging time |
The Cons |
---|
Short flight time |
Infrared (IR) restrictions |
7. World Tech Toys Camo Hercules RC Gyro Heli
Editor’s Rating: 4.1/5
Last of the reviews go to the unbreakable, 3.5CH coaxial Camo Hercules. This incredible little RC gyro-stabilized heli can take up to 200 pounds of force. Yes, you read that right.
What We Like About the Camo Hercules Heli
The Camo Hercules has more to offer than its unbreakable polymer airframe. It’s a ready to fly (RTR) model that’s dead easy to pilot even for raw beginners. This bird is so stable in the air that it’s almost impossible to crash by accident. A single rear rotor improves stability further. It’s practically bolted to the sky whether you hover or move up, down, backward, forward, left or right.
In the box of a new Camo Hercules helicopter:
- Camo Hercules unbreakable RC heli
- 3.5CH remote controller
- Spare set of blades
- Rechargeable flight battery
- Wall charger
- Instruction booklet
The flight range is around 75ft (23m) which is a lot further than other models on this page. Battery charging is average at 60+ minutes. The flight time is the biggest letdown (see next).
The Not So Good
Maximum flying time is average at 9 minutes but still depressing when you’re having fun. Extra 3.7V 1100mAh LiPo batteries cost around 17 dollars or less at the time of writing.
Tech Specs |
---|
Model Type: Coaxial camo RC heli |
Dimensions: 25.5 x 4 x 9.8” |
Product Weight: 18.4 oz. |
Max Range: 75ft (23 meters) |
Battery: 3.7V 1100mAh LiPo |
Max Flight Time: 9 minutes |
Charging Time: 60+ minutes |
Makers Suggested Age: 8+ years |
The Pros |
---|
100% ready to fly (RTR) |
Easy for beginners to control |
Camouflage decor |
Ultra-strong polymer body |
Bright LED Lights |
Built-in stabilizing gyro |
Single rear rotor |
The Cons |
---|
Poor flight time |
Contents
- Coaxial RC Helicopters Defined
- Fixed Pitch Vs. Collective Pitch
- About My ‘RC Military Helicopter’s Guide
- RC Military Helicopters for Kids Comparison Table
- 1. Helicopter King RC Military Chopper | Best Budget
- What We Like About the Helicopter King
- The Not So Good
- 2. VATOS Mini Military Kids Helicopter | Best Value
- What We Like About the VATOS Mini Heli
- The Not So Good
- 3. FX070C MD500 Scale RC Helicopter | Top Pick
- What We Like About the FX070C MD500
- Flying the FX070C MD500
- The Not So Good
- 4. Air Combat Radio Control Helicopter
- What We Like About the Air Combat Heli
- The Not So Good
- 5. WLtoys V398 Missile Shooting RC Helicopter
- What We Like About the V398 Missile Heli
- The Not So Good
- 6. Syma S109G Military RC Helicopter by TM USA
- What We Like About Syma’s S109G Military Heli
- The Not So Good
- 7. World Tech Toys Camo Hercules RC Gyro Heli
- What We Like About the Camo Hercules Heli
- The Not So Good