Really finding the right RC plane for you is just the one that you will enjoy flying the most. You do not want to get bored with such a valuable mode of entertainment. Choosing the best RC plane that is up to your standards and encourages you to learn quickly.
To help you to find your ideal plane and make the whole process much easier, we have included a list of the top choices on the market today.
What to Look For
- Design. How the wings are placed and the length of the body all play a role in how easy the plane is to control and which type of flyer would most enjoy using it.
- Power Type. There are electric-powered planes or planes that work by internal combustion. The former is easier to use and usually less costly which is why they are often used in beginner and intermediate models.
- Spare Parts. Being able to find the parts needed to modify or fix your plane should it need repairs can be the difference between restoring the model or being forced to buy an entirely new plane.
- Number of Channels. The number of controllable functions a plane has is directly connected to the level of the user. Fewer channels are better for beginners but could become very boring for those more advanced fliers looking to have more control.
Top 6 RC Planes Ultimate Table
Picture | Name | Features | Price | Rating (1-5) |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. Sport Cub S BNF with SAFE | $ | 4.5 | ||
2. e-flite 3100 Apprentice S 15e RTF with SAF | $$$$ | 4.4 | ||
3. Parkzone Radian PNP | $$$$ | 4.4 | ||
4. UMX Radian BNF | $ | 4.3 | ||
5. ParkZone Night Vapor BNF Airplane PKZU1180 | $$ | 4.3 | ||
6. ParkZone Ember 2 RTF Aircraft | $$$ | 4.0 |
Beginner Buying Tips
Those who are new to the hobby have more to consider than those that have spent the time learning what they already prefer.
You should consider buying high-wing planes, as they are more stable. The next choice is the number of channels. It may be easier to learn using a 3-channel plane but if you use 4 then you will still have a lot of fun once the basics have been covered.
The Best RC Plane for Stabilization
Those just learning about RC planes should also consider buying one that has stabilization technology. This has become more advanced to eliminate glitches caused by wind gusts and it will assist you when the flight isn’t entirely controlled.
No matter what kind of technology is chosen beginners will still need to learn to control their plane, so the best RC plane is the one you feel comfortable with.
Top 3 RC Planes Reviews
1. Sport Cub S BNF
One of the first things you will notice with the Sport Cub S BNF is how easy it is to land. As this is by far the most difficult part of flying when starting out, it is great to have a plane that is almost impossible to land badly.
As you can be sure you won’t damage the plane easily, this model is great to practice on and it will quickly improve your skills. It performs great indoors and outdoors, although it usually needs to be put into advanced mode depending on the wind.
Although most models that claim to: “be great for beginners” turn out to be too difficult, the Sport Cub S BNF is truly the simplest to learn on, it also has more complicated flying settings for when you get to grips with the basics.
2. e-flite 3100 Apprentice
There is nothing better than being able to fly an RC plane straight out of the box. The e-flite 3100 Apprentice S 15e RTF comes with everything already adjusted. This is great for the beginner and even more for an intermediate flyer who just wants to try out their new model.
The e-flite 3100 Apprentice S 15e RTF with all of its stabilizing assist technology means that anyone can fly. In fact, it is very difficult to crash at all with the trainer mode enabled. What is the real draw to this model is that it can be adjusted to be more difficult as you progress.
3. Parkzone Radian PNP
When it comes to the Parkzone Radian PNP it can at times feel like it is flying itself. This provides the user all of the confidence needed to improve their skills. It is a sturdy model that can take a beating and be easily put back together. You will certainly be able to increase your skills quickly with this model.
The Parkzone Radian PNP can also be set into more advanced settings once you have got to grips with its handling.