Types of Transmitter (Remote Controller) and receiver

6/16/25About 2 min

Choosing the Right Transmitter and Receiver is Critical to Your FPV Experience

Below are some buying tips and considerations:

I. Transmitter Categories

1. Gamepad-style Transmitter:

Features: Resembles a gaming controller, easy to carry, low output power. Suitable for beginners and simulator practice.

2. Box-style Transmitter:

Features: Large and bulky like a brick, better grip, rich in features. Preferred by advanced and professional pilots.

1. Budget:

Basic Setup: With a limited budget, consider a Beginner - level Controller (~200 CNY).
Entry-level Setup: Around 300 CNY; mini transmitters are recommended.
Mid-range Setup: 500 CNY and above; consider portable full-featured transmitters like Radiomaster TX12.
Professional Setup: With a higher budget, go for expert-grade transmitters.

2. Protocols:

Importance: The protocol is the communication language between the transmitter and receiver, and they must match. Common protocols include FrSky, ELRS, and CRSF.
Recommendation: ELRS is highly recommended for being open-source, low-latency, and long-range.

3. Number of Channels:

Requirement: At least 6–8 channels are needed: 4 for the sticks, others for arming, flight modes, LEDs, etc.
Recommendation: Opt for 9 channels or more to allow future customization.

4. Gimbal Types:

5. Battery Life:

Importance: Longer battery life greatly improves the flying experience. Choose a transmitter with good endurance.

6. Portability:

7. Appearance and Feel:

Importance: A good-looking and comfortable transmitter enhances the experience. Go with what suits your personal preference.

Budget: Choose the best transmitter you can afford. It’s better to fly a cheaper drone with a good transmitter than a fancy drone with a low-quality transmitter.
Compatibility: Ensure the transmitter is compatible with various receivers to avoid issues when upgrading.
Brand and Reputation: Go for well-known and reputable brands — easier for after-sales service and second-hand resale.

We hope the suggestions above help you find the right FPV transmitter.

1. Protocol Compatibility

The receiver must use the same protocol as the transmitter. For example, ELRS-based transmitters and receivers are fully compatible.
Common protocols include CRSF, SBUS, IBUS, etc., and need to be configured in Betaflight.

2. Performance & Features

Anti-interference: Choose a receiver with strong interference resistance for a stable signal.
Low Latency: Improves flight responsiveness.
Multi-antenna Design: Helps improve signal stability and reception.

3. Other Factors

Size and Weight: Select a receiver appropriate for the drone size to avoid adding too much weight.
Interface Type: Ensure the receiver interface matches the flight controller (e.g., UART serial port).

Binding ensures the transmitter and receiver communicate properly. Different brands and models have different procedures, usually involving powering both on and following instructions in the manual.
For example, with a TBS Crossfire system, enter bind mode on the transmitter, power the receiver, press the bind button, and wait for the green LED to stay solid to indicate a successful bind.

Frequency: Most transmitters operate at 2.4GHz, which is currently the most popular frequency band — offering good range and anti-interference capabilities.
Control Range: Influenced by obstacles, transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, etc. Typically, 2.4GHz systems offer a range between 300 meters and 1.5 kilometers.
Beginner Tip: It’s recommended that beginners choose Mode 2 (left stick throttle), as it is more common and easier for most hobbyists to learn.

Choosing the right transmitter and receiver involves balancing your budget, feature requirements, and protocol compatibility.

We hope this guide helps you find the ideal FPV gear for your flying journey.