Best 10 RC Helicopters For Beginners In 2021 COMPARED!
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Controlling an aerial vehicle, like a remote-controlled helicopter, from afar is exciting and entertaining.
IN A HURRY? Just scroll DOWNÂ a little bit to see the top 10 helicopters for beginners to learn to fly on.
Besides being entertaining, RC helicopters allow you to soar, hover, twist and turn and have all the fun dancing around various obstacles.
Thanks to technological improvements, different channel controls, and modern gyroscopes, RC helicopters are now increasingly affordable and available to everyone.
Still, purchasing and flying a remote helicopter might not be as easy as it sounds. It does require some degree of familiarity and practice to buy and safely operate a good RC helicopter.
Before purchase, you should get to know the technology, rotor styles, gyroscopes, and other vital factors of a good RC helicopter. So, let’s begin.
How do RC helicopters work?
A radio-controlled helicopter, or RC helicopter, is a model aircraft, which differs from other RC devices, like drones and airplanes, in terms of construction, aerodynamics, and flight techniques.
The controls are achieved through a radio connection, usually requiring between 3 and 6 channels, although a smaller 2-channel control system also exists.
These controls, depending on the number of channels, allow the pilot to simultaneously control the throttle, cyclic controls, and tail rotor.
- Simultaneous usage of these controls enables the pilot to fly the helicopter, performing the same maneuvers as a full-sized helicopter, like hovering and backward flight.
- Radio controls affect small servo motors, which control the main and the tail rotor, effectively making the helicopter hover or fly in a given direction.
- On older models, a gyroscope is usually used on the tail rotor control, providing control for counter wind-and-torque-reaction-induced tail movement.
- Modern RC devices use gyroscopes on the other 2-axis of rotation, pitch, and roll, as well. This creates a 3-axis gyroscopic system, which eliminates the need for a mechanical fly bar.
The design and build quality
The main body construction of these aerial vehicles is usually made of plastic, especially when it comes to cheaper models.
On more expensive models?
The main body is generally made of aircraft-grade aluminum, some aluminum alloy, or carbon fiber.
These materials are known for their durability and increased crash resistance. When it comes to rotor blades, they’re typically made of wood, but fiberglass and carbon fiber are also used, mainly due to their durability.
Types of RC helicopters
Remote-controlled helicopters are divided into several categories, mainly by their power source, by types of system controls, and by propeller size.
- Internal combustion engine – In the past, and for the better part of the first 40 years, the RC helicopters were powered by combustion engines. These engines ran on different types of fuel, like glow fuel, nitro, gas or gasoline, and were classified based on their size.
- Electric motors – in the past, electric motors were rarely used due to the limitation in motor and battery technology. Most motors needed about eight 1.2V NiCad batteries, putting them on a limit of current draw, resulting in frequent brush problems. However, due to their small size and lack of noise and fumes, they were perfect for indoor use.
- Multirotor models –these became popular in the RC hobby and UAV communities. These vehicles employ an electronic control system and electric sensors to control and stabilize the aircraft.
- Multirotor, most notably quadcopters, are more affordable, more comfortable to assemble, and more straightforward to operate than regular RC helicopters.
Best RC helicopters in 2021 for beginners compared
There are tons of different models on the market, with some being designed for beginners, others for speed, durability, etc.
In this article, we’ll discuss what are the Best 10 RC helicopters so that you can select an aircraft best suited to you.
 Ready?
1. Syma S107G: affordable RC helicopter
The Syma S107G is an excellent copter featuring a gyro system, especially if you’re on a budget. It’s one of the most affordable, yet durable and stable helicopters.
This product comes as an RTF, meaning it requires no assembly, so you don’t need to worry about putting together small parts. Though the body and blades are made of plastic, the inner metal construction is made of metal, providing increased durability.
The controls are achieved through an infrared connection, so it should be used indoors. LiPo battery provided with the helicopter provides about 5 – 8 minutes of flight time, taking about 35 minutes to recharge.
So, if you’re looking for a device that’s easy on the budget, but still fun to fly, Syma S107G is an excellent device worth looking into.
Pros:
- Durable
- Affordable
- Fun to operate
Cons:
- Not for outside flying
- Low distance range
2. Blade BLH4100 120S: Best advanced RC helicopter
NOTE: This model is no longer widely available, check out instead the updated Blade Nano S2.
If you liked the original Blade 120SR, a fly-barred RC helicopter, then you’ll adore the new fixed pitch 120S model.
This six-channel helicopter ships out as an RFT, making it suitable for beginners and more experienced pilots since it’s flight-capable right out of the box.
This device features a SAFE technology, which is a revolutionary electronic flight protection system, which prevents crashes by locking the 120S into familiar altitude.
If, by any chance, a collision occurs, the carbon-fiber body should be able to withstand any crash damage.
Another great thing about this model is that it features different flight modes, suitable for beginner, intermediate, and experienced pilots. Thanks to the power provided by high-speed, brushless motors in the primary and tail rotors, this amazing helicopter offers about 5 minutes of outside flight.
Pros:
- Great for outside
- Carbon-fiber components
- SAFE technology, Panic Recovery, and several flight modes
Cons:
- Just under the 0.55lbs weight limit
3. E-flite Blade mCX2 RTF: Most fun RC helicopter
The mCX2 is a micro coaxial RC aircraft that brought a very nice array of upgrades to the original mCX series. It’s a great device, providing quite a load of fun and entertainment, regardless of your skill level.
The Blade mCX2 ships out as an RFT device, which eliminates the need for assembly and gluing or screwing various components on.
This is especially important to newbie pilots, who aren’t as technically proficient as more experienced pilots.
The design of this RC helicopter is pretty sleek, good looking, and engineered to withstand the right amount of force during crashes. Being a coaxial aircraft, the mCX2 is quite easy to fly, making it suitable for beginners.
Overall, the mCX2 is an excellent entry-level helicopter that provides tons of fun, and about 6-8 minutes of flight time.
Pros:
- Easy to control
- Durable
- Easy to repair and maintain
Cons:
- Short flight time
4. VATOS RC Helicopter
The VATOS is a lightweight, high-performance helicopter that offers loads of fun while retaining affordability. So, if you’re looking for a stable, easy to fly RC aircraft, include the VATOS into your search.
The device features a high-quality metal frame that is crash-resistant and ensures durability. It also features a multicolor LED light to enrich the flying experience.
With new gyro technology, the flight performance is exceptional, since the gyro provides a great deal of stability. The aircraft can power off when the blades get stuck. Besides, the rotor blades are slightly soft, by design, to protect you and the aircraft from any severe damage.
Lastly, the VATOS offers about 6 – 12 minutes of fun-filled flight time. So, if you’re looking for a durable, fun helicopter, this model might be the one for you.
Pros:
- Ready-to-fly
- Good gyro system
- Good blade design
Cons:
- Short battery life
5. GPToys G610
NOTE: This model is no longer widely available. Try this helicopter with similar specs.
The G610 is an RTF, inexpensive, and easy to control model from GPToys, that is designed solely for indoor use. It’s a great performer, equipped with three selectable frequencies, allowing you to fly three different aircraft at once.
In terms of design, the G610 is more prominent than ordinary RC helicopters, measuring 11 inches in length. It features multicolored LED lights for flying in low-light conditions. Dual-rotors are a great addition, as they boost overall flight control, making this model suitable for beginners and intermediate level pilots.
Dual-rotors, combined with state-of-the-art gyroscope technology, make this aircraft stable, and easy to control. A 3.7V 350mAh LiPo battery provides for about 8 minutes of excellent maneuverability.
Pros:
- Stable and easy to fly
- Ready to fly
- Gyro stabilizer technology
Cons:
- Big for some children
6. WLtoys V912 RTF RC helicopter
The V912 is a 16-inch colorful helicopter that comes equipped with brushless motors, and an 850mAh 7.4V LiPo battery, offering excellent performance and flight time.
At first glance, you’ll be impressed with the way V912 looks, feels, and flies. The body is of durable design, capable of withstanding several bad crashes without any significant damage. Due to the large size of this aircraft, and the power of the main rotor, flying indoors is possible, but not advised.
The V912 has a range of almost 500 feet, and the battery provides about 8 minutes of flight time, which is excellent for a helicopter of this size. The only downside might be the price, which only seems steep, but it’s quite reasonable, considering the size and the performance this device offers.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Brushless main motor
- Good size
Cons:
- Brushed tail motor
- ESC (electronic speed controller) can easily be moved
7. Haktoys HAK303
NOTE: This model is no longer widely available. Try this helicopter with similar specs.
Haktoys HAK303 is a result of combining a durable construction, with a great set of features. This 8-inch aircraft is great for indoors, but it can stand on its own in the outdoors, as well.
Crash resistance is one of the selling points of this helicopter since it’s made out of premium-quality, durable materials.
Also, it’s equipped with gyro stabilizing technology, which ensures a smooth and stable flight for up to 50 feet of range.
Another great feature is the speed regulation.
HAK303 is marketed as the kid’s helicopter, and adjustable speed setting allows parents to keep velocity to a minimum. This helicopter is designed for indoor use and provides about 6 – 8 minutes of flight time.
Pros:
- Great stabilization
- Crash resistant
- Recommended for beginners
Cons:
- UV interference during outdoor flight
8. Syma S111G
Syma S111G, made by a Chinese based manufacturer known for good quality RC aircraft, is steady, very easy to fly, and quite affordable. Since it’s designed as an indoor helicopter, speed isn’t its strong side, but the stability is.
On a single, 40-minute charge, this aircraft provides up to 8 minutes of smooth flight time. The Coast Guard color scheme adds an extra flair to the durable body, designed to take a few crashes when being operated by a beginner pilot.
And since it ships out as an RTF, beginners should worry about assembly. Just take it out of the box, and after about half an hour of charging, you’re ready to go.
Syma S111G is one of the best helicopters to learn flying on, offering excellent stability, average speed, good-quality build, and about 25ft of range.
Pros:
- Well-balanced
- Smooth to operate
- Easy to control
Cons:
- Shouldn’t be used outside
9. Blade 230S
The blade 230S is a helicopter designed to be appealing to both amateurs and professionals.
It features three different progressive flight modes, making it easy for beginners to learn on, and for advanced pilots to further tune their abilities.
Beginners who are self-leveling their skills can take full advantage of the stability mode, while the agility mode provides complete control over the helicopter to intermediate pilots.
If you’re experienced enough to perform aerial acrobatics, like barrel rolls, you can take advantage of 3D flight mode. The Blade 230S features a panic button, which levels out the helicopter, keeping it from crashing.
This helicopter has a sturdy composite frame, which makes it more durable in case you end up crashing as you’re learning the controls. The blades are made of the same material, so they should break easily.
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners and advanced pilots
- Panic button prevents crashing
- Durable frame
Cons:
- Heavy controls
10. Blade Scout CX
NOTE: This model is no longer widely available. Try this helicopter with similar specs.
The Blade Scout CX is an indoor, ready-to-fly model, which means you’ll be able to take flight as soon as you take it out of the box. It’s small and weighs approximately half an ounce, making it more than suitable for flying indoors.
This coaxial, entry-level micro helicopter is designed to be affordable, and flyable by even the first-time beginners.
With precise controls, this model operates exceptionally well beyond all expectations. Still, it’s easy to operate, even by children. However, due to its small dimensions, the Scout is intolerant to any winds, so you’re limited to flying indoor.
The Blade Scout CX is a great little helicopter with about 7 minutes of battery life. The only downside is that it isn’t quite as sturdy, due to its small size.
Pros:
- Easy to fly
- Excellent controls
- Small
Cons:
- Not as durable as the competition
- Indoor flying only
Do RC helicopters need to be registered?
It all depends on the size and weight, and where you live.
It’s hard to give one answer because laws change so often in different places. Make sure to check the weight and call your local government or council to find out.
In MOST cases, they don’t since they’re so small and light but you can get bigger ones. There are also new laws that have come into place in 2019 regarding flying drones and helicopters, which change the weight needed to register or get a license.Â
Are RC helicopters hard to fly?
Yes, but then again, so are drones.
It’s easy to start learning but expect to crash a few times before really mastering it. The annoying thing about helicopters is that they’re often more delicate that drones.
Why?
Because drones often have a protective barrier around the propellers, and they’re square shaped. So when they crash, it’s less impact on one point.
Helicopters however?Â
They have that long bit at the back that sticks out, and often that hits the ground hard. So don’t be scared of crashing, but if it’s your FIRST RC helicopter, expect to crash.
For that reason, don’t buy a really expensive chopper as your first one. You’ll crash it, probably break it and be annoyed.Â
Are RC helicopters better than drones?
Well, of course, we’re biased.
We’re going to say drones are more fun since you can FPV them and fly them in tighter spaces. You can also fly drones faster, but some people like the feeling of controlling a proper helicopter.Â
It really depends on what you’re trying to do.
If you’re interested in flying drones, check out these useful articles:
- How to become a better FPV drone racer: Things you can do to start being a better pilot and drone RACER. This is not about videography, this is about racing and drone CONTROL.
- What is FPV drone racing? An introduction for people new to drone racing and FPV drone flying. FPV (first person view) drone racing is very different to just flying a drone line of sight (with no goggles).
- Why do people fly drones? A little look at the drone industry and why people are starting to fly drones more. Interesting read!
- The best drone simulators: PLEASE practice flying in a drone simulator before buying and flying ANYTHING. You’ll not only save yourself lots of money but also lots of frustration!
