Types of Radio Control Helicopter and Tips for Beginners

Last Updated on 2 years ago by Nicky Johnson

In recent years, flying miniature planes and drones has become popular as a pastime. And with this popularity, many companies have developed versions of a radio control helicopter. 

This type is gaining popularity among kids, families, and professionals looking to use it for different purposes. But before buying this helicopter, one should know its different types and consider the important things listed below. 

Types of Radio Control Helicopter

1. Battery power

Rechargeable batteries are used to power the great majority of RC helicopters. Due to advancements in lithium polymer batteries, a significant amount of power can now be stored in a relatively compact form. Radio control helicopter manufacturers use these batteries to give lengthy flight times in such a small design. 

2. Nitro engines

A nitro engine is required for extended flying times. This sort of engine often called a “glow engine,” is more similar to a diesel engine in that it runs on a combination of methanol, nitro-methane, and oil rather than a spark plug. 

However, fuel is pricey. These engines produce an ear-piercing shriek when cranked up and operate at extraordinarily high RPMs of up to 17,000. These are also referred to as “gas engines” by some individuals.

3. Gasoline

A modest 2-cycle gasoline engine is used by specific bigger RC aircraft. Compared to nitro engines, they make less noise. You only need some 2-cycle engine oil to go with the gasoline, which is almost everywhere.

However, they are huge for RC helicopters and often only come on full- and large-sized models.

4. Turbine

A small turbine engine is a gold standard for realism. Although they are very pricey, it is astonishing how much power they can produce with such a little engine. However, it’s challenging to find parts.

Tips for Buying an RC Helicopter

1. Buy the inexpensive one

Generally, you should start with something inexpensive and maybe toy-type. As they acquire abilities, every beginner encounters accidents and crash landings. A cheap toy helicopter won’t hold the same sentiment for you as a lovely, expensive hobby-grade aircraft. There won’t be as much concern over pieces being broken, scratched, or banged up. 

Toy helis lack the power and appeal of hobby-grade versions, but the fundamentals of flying remain the same. After using the cheap one, individuals can go forward with their ideal RC helicopter. 

Another alternative when just getting started with remote control helicopters is to buy a simulator.  Many popular RC helicopter models are loaded into the simulator and you can practice flying without causing any damage.

2. Check the delivery state

All radio-controlled aircraft are not delivered in a state that allows immediate flight. Instead, there are three primary categories:

• Ready-To-Fly
• Almost Ready-To-Fly
• Kit and bind-and-fly (BNF) Forms

Depending on how much work has to be done before the aircraft can be put into operation. If an individual enjoys DIY projects, they may either select an almost ready-to-fly aircraft or one that requires assembly from a kit. But if an individual does not want to do it by themself, getting all ready aircraft will be suitable. 

3. Check the build quality

RC helicopters come in various sizes, from tiny to enormous. A modest, ready-to-fly helicopter should be sufficient for a novice. But avoid purchasing small choppers that are roughly the size of your hand. These degrade swiftly, and their batteries also lose power quickly. They are also more susceptible to wind.  Choose one that is roughly twice the size of your palm, as an alternative.

Buying an RC heli can be an exciting task for individuals who are fond of new technologies or are looking for some new activity to indulge in. But if you are a beginner, you need to keep the above tips in mind before buying any heli to save the cost and your time in purchasing it.