Best Hobby RC Airplanes in 2022

Last update: December 5, 2022

Are bigger RC planes easier to fly?

No, bigger RC planes are not necessarily easier to fly. In fact, they can be more difficult to control, due to their increased size and weight. However, with practice, flying a bigger RC plane can become second nature.

Are RC Helicopters hard to fly?

No, RC helicopters are not hard to fly. In fact, they are quite easy to fly once you get the hang of it. The most important thing is to practice and learn the basic controls before moving on to more advanced maneuvers. With a little practice, you'll be flying like a pro in no time!

Are RC planes fun?

Yes, RC planes are definitely fun! I've been flying RC planes for years and I absolutely love it. It's a great hobby that's both challenging and rewarding. There's nothing quite like taking your plane out for a spin and seeing how it performs. If you're looking for a fun and exciting hobby, then I highly recommend giving RC planes a try.

Are RC planes illegal?

There is no definitive answer to this question as regulations vary from country to country. In some places, such as the United States, RC planes are perfectly legal to use and fly. However, in other countries, like Australia, their use is restricted to certain areas and they may require a permit. It is always best to check with your local authorities to find out the specific laws and regulations in your area before flying an RC plane.


Top Race Remote Control Airplane, 3 Channel RC Airplane Aircraft Built in 6 Axis Gyro System Super Easy to Fly RTF (TR-C285) Review:


The biggest Christmas present for my 12-year-old son, who has autism, was this incredible miniature plane. This plane has become his "favorite thing ever," and I haven't regretted the purchase in the slightest. It is resilient; despite hitting a few trees and severe landings, it continued going. The little plane is incredible as the youngster makes it do loops, hang in the air like a helicopter, and....well, the smile on his face as he makes his little plane fly like a bird is priceless. The flight time and range are excellent.Cons: It dislikes wind, so if there is even a light breeze, stay inside. It can combat a breeze, but a tailwind increases the likelihood of a heavy crash. About everything there is to say negatively. There are three settings for beginner, intermediate, and expert, and each setting has its own features. You just need to choose the setting that best suits you. I've seen a lot of reviews concerning fiddly controls.Service, though, is the finest thing. The youngster was distraught that he had destroyed his plane because, as with all RC planes, there had been a catastrophic accident that left a twisted prop shaft. When I emailed TopRace (the makers of the plane) to let them know about my problem and that I needed a part, they went above and beyond to get him back in the air at no extra cost. They support their aircraft and want to keep them in the air, and I am sincerely appreciative of this type of support.Would I purchase from this business again? Absolutely, I would.



RC Plane 2.4Ghz 2 Channels RTF RC Airplane, RC Aircraft with 3-Axis Gyro for Beginner Easy to Fly Glider Toys (Wingspan 310mm) Review:


This aircraft was a gift for my son's eleventh birthday. Although he has flown a few small quad drones, this was his first time flying an actual aircraft. The plane is packaged in a few pieces, but generally he found it simple to put together. With the plane, his learning curve was not smooth. It can withstand some collisions and blows while continuing to operate. Its overall durability has really amazed me. One of my propellers began to fly off, which was the only drawback. Happily, we never misplaced it. I used a drop of soft glue to fix the issue.



HobbyZone Carbon Cub S+ 1.3M RC Airplane Bl Rtf with Safe & GPS (Includes DXe 2.4Ghz Transmitter | 1300mAh 3S 20C Lipo Battery | USB Charger), HBZ3200 Review:


About three weeks ago, I purchased this RC plane, which I flew every weekend since. First time piloting an RC aircraft. Here is what I've learned.* The novice mode is really beneficial. In my initial flight, I was able to land the aircraft safely. Basically, you just need to let go of the control after reducing the throttle to zero. Just let the aircraft land on its own. Finding a large, wide area is obviously necessary to prevent the plane from colliding with any nearby objects as it descends in a straight line.Technology like SAFE is excellent. With the use of the GPS capability, a virtual fence may be set up to bring back an aircraft if it flies too far away. Only three models, according to my study, have this functionality. This is the key factor that led me to choose this model over others (like the E-flite Apprentice S 15e with SAFE), which are more potent but lack this feature.* The aircraft was fairly robust. I twice crashed it. I tried auto landing for the first time at that point. The day was windy. The plane flew in the same direction as the wind after the auto landing was initiated because it would have to fly back against the wind to land. The plane took off so quickly (I thought it was mainly due to the wind). I attempted to bring it back because I was so afraid. However, the altitude was insufficiently high. The aircraft collided with a tree. Fortunately, it only sustained minor wing scrapes. My child's first flight occurred during the second crash. He didn't fly it far enough that windy day. He didn't apply enough throttle when attempting to turn to one side by banking the vehicle. The aircraft's altitude decreased. My child didn't have enough time to steer the plane away from the houses, which was also a result of the wind. Someone's backyard was struck by the plane. As if by magic, nothing was harmed. Lessons learnt include not flying it on windy days when we are still learning, keeping the aircraft far from obstacles so that we have leeway to make mistakes, and applying more power during turns because banking the aircraft will slightly lower its altitude.* The plane was also rather effective. The fly time is 6 minutes in length. With the stock 1300 mah battery, I can fly the plane for about 15 minutes at medium throttle. My flight time with a 2200 mah battery is almost 25 minutes. The 2200 mah battery, a voltage alarm, and even even larger batteries could all fit in the battery bay.



HobbyZone Sport Cub S RC Airplane RTF with SAFE Technology (Includes 6-CH 2.4GHz Transmitter | 150mAh 3.7V LiPo Battery | USB Charger), HBZ4400 Review:


This item is incredibly affordable. Purchasing the four 250 mah 35c batteries will give you a long flight duration. Initially, I objected to the idea of a beginner plane, but I eventually gave up because it still kept all four channels (rudder, aileron, elevator, throttle). Let me tell you, this plane has humbled me and probably spared me from having to make expensive repairs or deal with problems caused by trying to move too quickly. Trust me, I put it to the test, and it is quite durable. When you first turn the selector switch off of beginner mode and find yourself in over your head while attempting to pull a hammerhead, the panic mode comes in quite handy. As I sit here and wait for my batteries to charge, I'm writing this in preparation for taking off once more.People have different perspectives on the assisted flight. After an hour of hands-on practice today, here's mine: it definitely helps when piloting such a little, light plane in mild winds. Several times when the wind direction unexpectedly shifted, I would have planted this thing. It lessens the learning curve but does not eliminate it. And if you're a purist with the ability to support it, you can turn the help off.The fact that the transmitter distance isn't as great as I had anticipated is my only complaint about the plane, but it's probably for the best anyhow.If I could, I'd give this item six stars. This makes me smile broadly and makes my inner child come out.



RealFlight 9: RF9 Radio Control RC Flight Simulator Software with Spektrum Interlink-DX Controller, RFL1100 Review:


I have really, *REALLY* missed flying my RC planes and drones ever since moved to NYC. Even if I fly my Tiny Whoops and Inductrix FPVs within my flat, it's still not the same as being outside. Well, let me tell you, this simulator gives me the impression that I'm actually flying! The controls are remarkably responsive, and the physics seem to match their real-world equivalents rather closely (okay, maybe they need to improve the on-aircraft lighting, which sometimes misses nighttime shadows on the ground). Heck, even skimming over the water's surface appears to provide the appropriate amount of tug and resistance on the landing gear!And speaking of them, just as with a real plane, if you break off a piece of them, your elevator, or anything else, the plane will still fly as if it were a real accident! I had a great time pretending to be an on-ground missile while 'flying' an F4 Phantom model that had its wings ripped off. Yes, terribly ludicrous, but damned if I didn't divert myself for a good 10 minutes by tinkering with the damaged fuselage to see what I could do!Oh, and this thing crashes, which makes it half the fun! When you're truly trying, it's more tougher to purposefully run into flagpoles and other objects of that nature. (Weirdly, they act like magnets when you're attempting to avoid them! lol!)You will adore playing this!Oh, and as a side note, I'm using Parallels Desktop 15 to run this from a 2016 MacBook Pro, using a 4K display *with* two other 24" monitors on the side (they aren't running the Flight Simulator). lone 4K monitor in the middle.) I bring this up because the performance is still excellent on a three-year-old Mac running a virtualized Windows on a 4K screen! I can tell that I'm receiving 30 frames per second, but sometimes it feels like 60! You won't be let down (and there's no need to run it in boot camp, either!)



YSTFLY 2.4GHz 2CH DIY EPP RC Plane Outdoor RTF Ready to Fly Remote Control Gliding Aircraft Model,with 2 Extra Batteries(3 Batteries) Review:


a fantastic outdoor toy for youngsters! quick assembly (you only need to glue three parts up to the plane body). Three batteries are provided by the maker or vendor for this toy, which I greatly appreciate. The toy plane needs to be thrown away before you can start using the remote control to make it fly; otherwise, it will just roll around on the ground. For the first time, my child struggled to control it, and the toy plane shot up to the roof. He's doing better now, though, lol. We had a great time!



Funtech RC Airplane Remote Control Airplane 3 Channel with 2.4ghz Radio Control 6 Axis Gyro, Durable Epp Foam Easy to Fly for Beginners,Great Little Plane for Your First RC Plane Review:


Revised first review:I've had my Funtech 3 aircraft for five months at this point. Even now, I still enjoy flying it virtually every weekend! Last week, my plane experienced a small issue, but it was fixed right away! I agreed when Funtech recommended sending me a replacement plane. This weekend, I'll be flying once more. The one-year guarantee on these aircraft is upheld by Funtech. Purchase one right away—you'll enjoy using it a lot!2019 January ReviewI'm over 60 years old, yet my Funtech 3 has given me so much enjoyment that I feel like a teenager once more! I quickly charged the battery after taking the plane out of the package and was able to fly it like a pro. I gave flying mode a shot. While I was a teenager, but I never had any luck... They were broken within minutes by me. This plane may be flown by anyone right out of the box! On my third expedition today, I set the settings to Intermediate and performed three consecutive loop de loops. We were astounded. On the first flight, one of the landing gear's wheels came off. I contacted the firm, and they promptly provided two replacement landing gears and a few more propellers. By the way, I launched the plane by hand because it lacked landing gear; it was simple and flew flawlessly. I've owned a lot of pretty expensive toys throughout my life, but I don't recall any of them being as enjoyable! I'll most likely purchase three to four of these airplanes and give them to my nieces and nephews.



VOLANTEXRC RC Glider Plane Remote Control Airplane Ranger600 Ready to Fly, 2.4GHz Radio Control Aircraft with 6-Axis Gyro Stabilizer, One-Key Return Function for Beginners (761-2 RTF) Review:


I had owned two Sky Cruiser airplanes, which are no longer manufactured, that were almost identical to this one. Since I was unable to obtain another Sky Cruiser, I made do with what I believed to be a subpar imitation. The Volantex's wings cannot be removed. The storage box's bulkiness is a drawback. The wings cannot come off while flying, which is a pro. (The reason why my previous airplane died.) Although I didn't have high hopes for this plane, I figured it was still worth a try because it was only $100. Well, this plane took off and flew flawlessly. I didn't have to adjust the flight control push rods at all because no trim needed to be added. Additionally, I had to add weight to my other aircraft ( 2 nickels taped in the nose.)I just made a few short flights with this plane on a day with a little wind so I wouldn't push my luck. The plane can't turn quickly because it just has an elevator and rudder. Therefore, be sure to leave space for a wide turn.It has a great glide ratio when unpowered. The plane can take a beating because it is composed of tough foam.When you get the hang of it, it's not too difficult to remove the nose hatch, which is made of foam rather than plastic. Additionally, it is claimed to have an auto return feature, however it is not at all stated in the instructions. Speaking of the directions, they should be improved. I truly wish Chinese manufacturers would at least hire writers who are proficient in the English language.This would make a great first airplane because the transmitter has 3 gyro assist modes: beginner, intermediate, and expert. Overall, this is by far the best park flyer I've ever flown, despite some of my complaints.



PLRB RC Plane, 2.4Ghz 2 Channels RTF RC Predator Airplane, RC Aircraft with 3-Axis Gyro for Beginner, A Easy to Fly Glider Toys (Wingspan 660mm) Review:


Assembly: Using the included screws and tools, the aircraft can be put together quickly and effortlessly. Because the board is buried deep under the fuselage and the wire connectors are tiny, joining the wires for the motors to the board (shown) is the most challenging step. The board might have been taken out of the plane to make this much simpler, but I was able to make it work without doing that. Some of the screws need some force to engage because they are difficult to push through to the plastic plate on the other side.Quality: With the exception of the landing gear, quality is good. The front landing wheel detached quickly and is easily misplaced. Throwing the plane will still work to launch it.This aircraft is incredibly light, shockingly quick, and difficult to handle. Each wing has an electric motor that is facing the back. The available controls include rudder left/right, which slows one or both of the motors, and increase/decrease total thrust (the plane does not have an actual rudder). Pitch (up/down) and roll (tilt one wing up/down) controls are absent. Since the plane is so light, even a slight breeze might cause it to deviate from its intended path. My own ended up on a roof and in a tree. It is also quite simple to move beyond of the controller's range because it moves so quickly. We advise that you only use this aircraft in a very wide open area devoid of any trees and exposed to no wind.



POWERUP 3.0 Original Smartphone Controlled Paper Airplanes Conversion Kit - Durable Remote Controlled RC Airplane for Beginners, Works with Most Paper Airplane Books Review:


It will take some work and an exceptionally peaceful day to learn how to use this wonderful device. However, flying is an absolute blast when you're in a big, open, grassy (or beach sand) region! I was relieved to buy anything once that performed as promised.Note added later: Since writing my initial review, I have had contact with Power Up Toys directly and have found them to be incredibly helpful and easy to work with. I wish I could give excellent customer service one additional star.1. Fold a decent airplane that flies well and straightly on its own, with the elevator and rudder surfaces cut. For me as a beginner, the "Phantom" model worked the best. Although steady, it turned with great responsiveness. Check the handbook to verify sure your plane has enough dihedral angle, then try flying it with the module on to see if the motor causes it to turn in one direction or the other. On almost every plane, I had to make an adjustment for the motor. I believe the proper amount of rudder was added to help the plane fly straight, but you should make your own adjustments after taking a look.2. Watch for an exceptionally tranquil day. At first, I was impatient and tried on a dubious day. I was disappointed and irritated as a result of that choice. Take a break and wait for the quiet. You'll get paid for it.3. As instructed in the user manual, turn off your phone's "Sleep" mode and the ability to receive calls or texts. When I looked down to adjust the throttle on my first lengthy flight, I discovered the phone was dead. Flying made it annoying, challenging, and pointless to log back into the phone. Make sure the phone is constantly on.4. Instead of holding the phone flat when flying, start by holding it vertically (up and down). Naturally, you'll be tossing it around, but tilt the phone so that it's perpendicular to the ground rather than parallel to it. Cut the enthusiasm, too. (Yes, at first I was a lunatic. smiling ear to ear while dancing, leaning out in both directions, etc.) You'll experience a smoother, more controlled flight if you make smaller, more delicate motions. After you have the feel of flying, you can utilize "movement" based throttle.5. Recognize that the amount of "loft" (the amount of nose-up ascent) and the height at which the plane will fly are the two main effects of the throttle level. You may find the "sweet spot" for level flying by adjusting the elevator tabs at the back of the wing in conjunction with the throttle, but it normally takes a few tries to get it just right. It's a nice tip from the manufacturer to start with the throttle in the 1970s. Observe it. I discovered that at first, making throttle adjustments required me to glance away from the plane I was trying to fly and down at my phone. I had to keep them to a minimum.6. Gradually test the maximum distance. I had to control the aircraft within around 100 feet. Although they are intended for a distance of 200 feet, I discovered that in my location, the bluetooth connection becomes erratic beyond that point. Each time I went beyond the recommended distance, I lost control of the aircraft. I was running toward that whirling plane, trying to re-establish contact, and many bystanders were very amused. Although it was healthy for my cardiovascular system, I should have kept the plane closer. Also keep in mind that altitude counts toward the distance. You must be within ten feet of the plane's straight below if it is 90 feet above the ground (yes, it can happen) (again, in my area).7. Recognize that having complete control is a myth. These paper airplanes are not truly under our control, or we wouldn't require such a large area for them to be flown around in. Our suggestions to turn this way or that way are simply that—suggestions. These goods are transportable and movable. Even the smallest gust of wind has the power to divert them from our intended path. Have fun with the idea of adjusting the ship's course at a rate that feels like thousands of steering adjustments per second, and realize that in the end, that is where the joy is.8. Try the waterproof paper last but certainly not least. On a moist day, regular bond paper can and will distort in mid-flight and crash for no apparent reason because it reacts with ambient moisture in the air so quickly. This may not be as much of a problem if you are flying over a desert.Thank you Power Up Toys for the enjoyable experience!


Can I fly an RC plane in a park?

Yes, you can fly an RC plane in a park. Just be sure to check with the park beforehand to see if there are any restrictions.

Do I have to register my RC airplane?

You are not required to register your RC airplane in the United States. You may register your RC airplane if you wish, but it is not required by law.

Do RC planes count as drones?

Yes, RC planes count as drones. Drones are unmanned aircraft that are controlled remotely. RC planes are a type of drone that is controlled by a remote control.

Does remote ID apply to RC planes?

Remote ID does not currently apply to RC planes, but the FAA is considering changing that in the future. Remote ID would allow the FAA to track and identify aircraft, and it would also help to prevent collisions by providing real-time information on the location of other aircraft.

How do you tell if your RC plane is balanced correctly?

How far can model planes fly?

A model plane can fly a few hundred feet to a few miles, depending on the model, size, and weight.