Remember that cool RC plane you got for your 13th birthday? The same one that went nose-first into your neighbor’s wall on its first flight. Did that experience feel unfulfilling? Now is your chance at redemption because we have got you covered with the list of best RC airplanes you may get your hands on in 2024.
Novice or pro, this guide includes the best products you’re able to buy based on your level of experience with RC airplanes. Opt for an engine- or battery-powered plane, prioritize speed or agility, a large wingspan, or a compact form factor; all these considerations will help you choose the best machine (or toy) for you. For those who prefer to stay grounded, get agood RC Carinstead. It is a fantastic way to sharpen your piloting skills before taking flight with your RC airplane!
HobbyZone Sport Cub S2
Beginner-friendly RC fun
The Hobbyzone Sports Cub S2 is a small form factor electric RC airplane designed for beginner pilots. Also available in an RTF (ready to fly) package, which includes a receiver, transmitter and remote, so you are ready to fly right out of the box. Don’t worry about a few bumps while you are polishing your skills because the EPS foam body on this one can easily take a few hits.
The HobbyZone Sports Cub S2 is an electric airplane designed specifically for beginners. It has a pretty small form factor with a wingspan of about 617mm.
A prominent feature of this plane is the innovative “SAFE” technology, which stands for Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope. This helps prevent overcontrol and loss of orientation and is achieved by subtly adjusting the controls automatically, ensuring your plane never goes mayday. You can toggle this autopilot between beginner, intermediate, and experienced to gain the desired amount of control over the plane as you improve! It also has a panic recovery button that resets the orientation of the plane mid-flight in case you lose control.
The smart features on the HobbyZone Sports Cub S2 ensure you don’t crash your plane while practicing aerobatics, making it one of the best options for beginners.
Before buying your RC airplane, ensure you understand what is in the box. Most packages won’t include significant components like a receiver, transmitter, and battery (which will cost extra). You may come across tags like RTF or ATF; they mean ready to fly or almost ready to fly, respectively. RTF will include everything or, in some cases, everything but a battery. ATF may or may not include a receiver, transmitter, and battery, but it will definitely require some time to assemble.
FMS P-51D Red Tail
The legend lives
Best suited for intermediate to advanced pilots, the FMS P-51D is an electric RC airplane replica of the legendary World War 2 aircraft, the P-51 Mustang. This warbird model is pretty similar to the real plane, with functional flaps and retractable landing gear. It comes in various wingspans ranging from 1100 to 1700mm. Choose wisely depending on the size of the field, so you can perform stunts with ease.
In a daring feat of wartime piloting, Chuck Yeager faced a harrowing situation in 1944. Escorting bombers over Berlin, he encountered heavy German fire and lost elevator control, making it incredibly difficult to maintain stability in his P-51 Mustang. Despite the damage, Yeager’s exceptional skill kept the plane airborne. Remarkably, he managed to navigate back to Allied territory, crash-landing in a field in France. This experience solidified the P-51 Mustang’s reputation as a pilot’s reliable companion.
This plane is great for aerobatics because of its warbird design and robust motor. It uses lithium high-voltage batteries ranging from the 3600 to the 5300 battery pack for different power outputs, meaning it will perform differently and have varying flight times depending on the battery installed. It also has a gyroscopic stabilization option, which is a great feature, especially for inexperienced pilots, as it helps stabilize the plane if you lose control mid-flight.
The looks of this plane are also pretty cool and very close to the actual P-51 Mustang. Its classic bubble canopy and distinctive four-bladed propeller evoke a sense of nostalgia. This combination of historical accuracy and performance makes the P-51 Mustang a perfect collectible for anyone who lovesMilitary-themed TTRPGsand RC enthusiasts looking for a maneuverable model that excels at aerobatics.
E-flite Night Radian Basic
It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s a glider!
The E-flite Night Radian, a two-meter electric glider with eagle-like wings, effortlessly catches thermals for extended silent flight. The efficient electric motor provides bursts of power for takeoffs and maneuvers, while integrated LED lights transform it for dazzling nighttime adventures.
The E-flite Night Radian is a glider, not a conventional RC plane. If you’re switching from a regular RC airplane to this glider, it may feel a little underpowered, but the massive wings are designed to use thermal currents to gain altitude and remain airborne for prolonged periods.
With high-visibility, programmable LED lights that can switch 100+ colors, this glider is easy to spot in low-light conditions like dusk or dawn. The lights also add to the aesthetic appeal, making this bright and colorful bird look cool in the air.
Another feature the Night Radian uses is the AS3X (Artificial Stabilization 3-axis) technology. AS3X uses electronic sensors and software to constantly track the glider’s motion and make small tweaks to the controls to keep it on course. For example, a gust of wind would cause it to veer off, or some turbulence would make it wobbly. This will be automatically corrected by AS3X. This greatly reduces the pilot’s workload as you don’t have to make minor adjustments yourself to correct your path constantly.
Remember thaticonic yellow aircraft from PUBGthat everyone wrecked? If you had fun flying it, well, the real thing is even better! It wouldn’t crash that easily, and unlike the game, you can actually fly one at night after work. If you’re looking for a plane you can fly recreationally, the Knight Raider is hard to beat.
E-flite Timber X Basic
Built to last
The E-Flite Timber X is an electric RC airplane that combines impressive power and agility with unmatched durability. Its low aspect ratio wings and reinforced EPO construction make it perfect for pilots of all skill levels looking for a fun and forgiving plane that can handle anything you throw at it.
The E-Flite Timber X has one of the best build qualities of any RC plane, utilizing hollow-core EPO construction with strategic composite reinforcements (carbon fiber or fiberglass) for added rigidity and impact resistance. Combine this with shock-absorbing landing gear and oversized tires, and you have a tank of a plane.
Another notable feature is its ability to achieve short takeoffs and landings. The generous wing area in a compact design, coupled with the drooped wing-tips and its powerful motor, allows the airplane to take flight in under two feet of runway.
While the design allows for impressive aerobatics, it may be difficult for beginner pilots to control. The wings have a large surface area, but the wingspan is short (wide and short wings), which makes the plane over-steer easily. However, once you master the controls, the Timber X is perfect for pulling off impressive stunts.
Hangar 9 Pitts S-2B
Aerobatic legend to RC powerhouse
The Hangar 9 Pitts S-2B is a giant-scale, engine-powered RC airplane replicating the legendary aerobatic performer from the ’70s. This officially licensed replica boasts incredible scale detail and thrilling performance, making it a dream machine for experienced pilots seeking the ultimate aerobatic experience.
The Hangar 9 Pitts S-2B can be powered by either a 50-60cc engine (recommended for higher power output) or an electric motor. This giant scale-model has an impressive wingspan of about 1800mm. The scale realism on this thing is very impressive with accurate proportions, and the og paintjob of Rich Goodwin’s Pitts S-2B on a wooden fuselage gives a very similar look and finish to the actual thing.
This plane requires an intermediate pilot just to get it in the air. It is difficult to get a hang of how this thing handles, but once you master it, knife-edge flights, splits, and rolls become second nature with the plane’s precise control surfaces and quad aileron servos.
This plane demands an intermediate or advanced pilot to handle its power and responsiveness. Mastering its handling unlocks its true potential for thrilling aerobatics. Knife-edge flights, splits, and rolls become second nature with the plane’s precise control surfaces and quad aileron servos. All in all, this plane is a showstopper for scale realism enthusiasts and competition pilots seeking to push the limits with an expertly crafted replica.
VolantexRC F-16 Fighting Falcon
RC fun made affordable
The VolantexRC F-16 Fighting Falcon is a compact electric RC airplane perfect for beginner and intermediate pilots. Its small 270mm wingspan makes it portable and easy to take anywhere for flying fun.
The Fighting Falcon is one of the most affordable RC planes on the market. While it might not have the most advanced features or a robust build, it delivers pure flying fun at an unbeatable price.
This compact plane comes in a convenient RTF (Ready-To-Fly) package, meaning it arrives completely assembled. Just charge the included battery, and you’re ready to take off! While not designed for complex aerobatics, the F-16 packs a surprising punch in speed, which might require some adjustment for first-time pilots.
This small-scale replica of the iconic F16 fighter jet is aesthetically sharp. With a lightweight EPP foam construction, it delivers an impressive 15 minutes of juice. However, the most attractive feature of this plane is undeniably its price. At only 50 USD for a complete RTF package, the VolantexRC F-16 Fighting Falcon is incredible value for anyone who wants an affordable entry into the world of RC.
FAQ
I’m a beginner. What RC plane should I buy?
As a beginner, look fortrainerorbeginner-friendlyRC planes. These prioritize stability with features like gyroscopic stabilization to help you learn the ropes. They also tend to have less power, making them easier to control while you get comfortable with maneuvering your aircraft.
What’s a gyro stabilizer?
A gyro stabilizer is your secret weapon for smooth flights! This built-in tech acts like an electronic copilot, constantly sensing your plane’s orientation and making tiny adjustments to keep it level. It’s a fantastic feature for beginners, preventing wobbles and crashes as you learn the ropes.
How much flight time can I expect from an RC plane?
Flight time is a plane-by-plane affair. Electric models depend on battery capacity, while gas-powered planes rely on fuel efficiency. Bigger batteries and fuel tanks offer longer flights, but remember to pack spares (or a power bank!) for extended flying sessions.
