When it comes to the best RC helicopter, we have on our list the top pick, the Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro which is very stable when it comes to flight . In the big picture, it is quite easy to fly for beginners and experts alike because of its brushed motor. It is also very beginner friendly and uses Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery. To run and control the RC helicopter, it requires battery for remote control.
Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue
Meanwhile, we also have our step-up pick, which is the slightly more expensive Holy Stone HS170 Predator Mini RC Helicopter Drone 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro 4 Channels Quadcopter Best Choice for Drone Trainer. It uses a 2.4 GHz radio transmitter and has a 4 channel control. This is a quad copter helicopter drone all in one equipped with a 6 axis gyro. It can adapt to any skill level of flying from beginner to expert and can fly from 6 to 8 minutes. It charges from 60 to 80 minutes, with the control distance range about 30 to 50 meters. Having a very wind-resistant design, it can maneuver with a high quality performance.
Our budget pick is the slightly cheaper RC helicopter, the Syma S107/S107G R/C Helicopter with Gyro- Red because it is not just super easy to fly but also friendly towards beginners at RC helicopters. In addition, it runs on a no memory effect lithium polymer battery and uses a brushed motor. It is coated in sleek red color design finish, making it look striking.
A Little Background
RC helicopters have been around for a long time, but since the existence of RC drones, these helicopters have taken a brand new name for themselves. RC helicopters are perhaps best known for the concept of being able to fly with ease and stability because of their gyroscope – the thing that helps an RC helicopter balance its way through the atmosphere and even on the garden or yard.
The cool thing about RC helicopters is that most of them are so small that they can be even flied on indoor spaces, provided that there is enough space for them to fly. They may look super light weight but most of them are very durable and crash-proof. Having an RC helicopter is much like having any other RC toy or hobby but the main difference is that it is flied differently and controlled in a way that is different from RC cars and RC airplanes. Overall, they provide excitement and a good way to learn how to fly helicopters, especially for those who have been shooting to become pilots someday and drive a helicopter all on their own.
How We Picked
When it comes to the best RC helicopter, we have picked these awesome models based from the following criteria:
Does the RC helicopter have a very stable gyroscope? A good gyroscope is the most important part of the RC helicopter which ensures that the helicopter has a good and stable flight in the air. It helps to keep it well-balanced when hovering, especially in windy air. The more axes the gyroscope has, the better the RC helicopter can fly at any given time.
Is the built sturdy but lightweight at the same time? The RC helicopter is typically made from aluminum, metal or similar alloy and some sturdy plastic to top it off. It should not just look flashy – it should be able to withstand the toughest of flight crashes.
Can it manage to fly smoothly with a variety of twist and turns? The gyroscope should be able to keep it in a steady flight mode and it should be able to do some flips and loops without much hassle from the controls, especially if you are looking forward to using this to learn how to control helicopters in mid-air.
Is the price alright for the RC helicopter? Typically, RC helicopters are not that expensive, especially if they are only entry-level toys for practicing how to fly them. They range from $10 to $200 and above.
What do the reviews say? If the RC helicopter has more positive than negative reviews and if the disadvantages are not so much of deal breakers, then the RC helicopter is pretty much out of question and that you should buy it.
Does it come with spare parts and accessories? Spare propellers, a user’s manual and some other attachable accessories and a USB cable should be in the package as a complete set, especially if you are looking forward to owning an RTF or ready to fly RC helicopter.
How long can it fly up in the air? Most RC helicopters can fly from 5 to 10 minutes and it usually depends on its charge time. The longer the charge time, the longer the flight time, but it also depends if the RC helicopter has other heavy features.
What is the maximum range of the RC helicopter’s flight? Typically, you would want to have an RC helicopter that is very stable and controllable even at a far distance and altitude up in the air so that it can hover around without much hassle and you can easily control it.
How long do you have to charge it? Charge time should be about 40 to 100 minutes or somewhere in between. This can affect the flight time and make sure it is on full charge for maximum performance when it comes to flying it.
Our Pick
Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue
The Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro is a very stable when it comes to flight and is our RC helicopter. It is quite easy to fly for beginners and experts alike making it a very versatile RC helicopter to have. With a brushed motor, it is a very beginner friendly so it can accommodate a lot of skill levels all in all.
It uses Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery and it also requires battery for remote control. Running on electric fuel, it is a 3 channel RC helicopter with gyro. It also uses infrared radio bands and it can last up to 10 minutes of flight and takes about 30 minutes on a fully charge.
The remote control needs 6 AA batteries and in addition, the gyro helps in making short learning curves. It is a highly durable RC helicopter compared to most RC helicopters. With its very affordable price, it is able to maneuver forward, backward, left, right, up and down. The specific battery is a LiPo 3.7 V 150 mAh 15C 1S with a voltage of 3.7 V and watt hours of 0.56.
Despite its looks, it is recommended for indoor use only and is made from sturdy plastic. All in all, it does not require assembly and was coated in blue design finish. It also comes with a spare tail blade and includes the USB charger.
The Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue has overall dimensions of 17 in x 7 in x 3 in and weighs 8 oz with a shipping weight of 12 oz. This best RC helicopter is recommended for ages 14 years old and above.
Who Else Likes It?
According to this site, Syma 107 , the Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue is a very serious RC helicopter for kids and adults alike. It has been praised for its good infrared control and in addition, the USB cable helps in keeping it charged easily. With its easy maneuver, it is also very highly affordable and all in all good for beginners. It has also been praised for being super durable and a good buy for a first RC helicopter.
The site RC Hobbies and Reviews also reviewed the Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue. It said that it has a robust body and weight due to its metal built. It was best praised for its easy maneuver and precision and being a ready to fly package, the gyroscope helps it stabilize in the air and avoid crashes. This review is very thorough with its pros for this particular RC helicopter and in addition, it even said that it is a straight-forward RC helicopter. The review also notes that the RC helicopter can be easily modified. It is super resilient and sturdy even with crashes. Perhaps the review stated that the only con is that it cannot be used outside due to being lightweight and the infrared and in addition, it might also interfere with televisions so they should be turned off while flying. These are only minor cons but all in all, the review is mainly positive.
According to RC Helicopter Reviews , the Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue, is very reliable in the sky to fly and can withstand crashes because of its aluminum body. It is indeed very cheap but sturdy and can be easily maneuvered in 6 directions. Perhaps the only downside is the lack of weight but this can be worked around by adding a small weight on the nose. Nonetheless, this RC helicopter is a great bestseller when it comes to RC helicopters.
This review site RC Helicopterz has also reviewed the Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro, Blue. It said that it has a great construction and great flight ability with up to 6 maneuvers. In addition, the site has also reviewed that it has tons of included accessories. With good dimensions, the review said that it has an easy charging through the USB cable. The built is super sturdy against crashing and it also adheres to global safety standards, making it a truly safe to fly RC helicopter. The only con is that it doesn’t have a wall charger.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
The only few complaints include the fact that it is too lightweight for strong winds or outdoor use and in addition, it might interfere with other infrared devices at home such as televisions and it does not have a wall charger. These flaws, however, are not too major and are not deal breakers.
Step-up Pick
Holy Stone HS170 Predator Mini RC Helicopter Drone 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro 4 Channels Quadcopter Best Choice for Drone Trainer
Our step-up pick is the Holy Stone HS170 Predator Mini RC Helicopter Drone 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro 4 Channels Quadcopter Best Choice for Drone Trainer. It has a 2.4 GHz radio transmitter with a 4 channel control and as a quad copter helicopter drone all in one, it runs on a 6 axis gyro.
This RC helicopter can easily adapt to any skill level of flying from beginner to expert and in addition, it can fly from 6 to 8 minutes. The helicopter charges from 60 to 80 minutes and in addition, the control distance range is about 30 to 50 meters. It is great for both indoor and outdoor flights. With this, you can fly two or more at the same time due to its anti-interference technology.
Equipped with a very wind-resistant design, it is an RC helicopter with a high quality performance, it has super responsive motors and in addition to that, the throttle can be easily adjusted. Be wary, however, that has a 10 minute cool down is recommended between flights.
The Holy Stone HS170 Predator Mini RC Helicopter Drone 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro 4 Channels Quadcopter Best Choice for Drone Trainer weighs 14.4 oz and includes a lithium ion battery. Because it weighs less than 0.5 lbs, FAA registration is not required. It has great technical support, with dimensions of 5 in x 1 in x 5 in. It is suitable for 14 years and above and when you order, the package includes the quad copter drone RC helicopter itself, user’s manual, screwdriver, 4 additional rotating blades, lithium ion battery 3.7 V 350 mAh, 2.4 GHz remote controller.
Budget Pick
Syma S107/S107G R/C Helicopter with Gyro- Red
Our budget pick, the Syma S107/S107G R/C Helicopter with Gyro- Red is super easy to fly and completely friendly towards beginners at RC helicopters. Because it is budget friendly, it also runs on a no memory effect lithium polymer battery. The brushed motor RC helicopter is coated in sleek red color design finish and it also runs on lithium metal batteries.
With an electric type fuel, it is an infrared radio band and is good for beginner and intermediate levels. It can withstand any crash and very light weight and the battery requirement is 1S 150 mAh 3.7 15C. It has watt hours of 0.56 and it is easily rechargeable via USB cable.
Flexibility is out of question because with this RC helicopter, it can be maneuvered in 6 movements – forward, backward, left, right, down and up. It is a 3 channel RC helicopter which includes gyro, ESC, receiver and mixer.
The Syma S107/S107G R/C Helicopter with Gyro- Red is a super awesome and cheaply priced RC helicopter. It has overall dimensions of 17 in x 7 in x3 in and weighs just 8 oz . It is suitable for 14 years and up and because it is a budget RC helicopter, it is therefore only recommended only for indoor use.
Unique Spider Shaped RC Helicopter
TEC.BEAN X902 Black Spider Mini RC Quadcopter Drone with 3D Flip 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro for Beginner
The TEC.BEAN X902 Black Spider Mini RC Quadcopter Drone with 3D Flip 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro for Beginner, Black has a downside design of the propeller and motor. It is a cool looking drone RC helicopter with a sleek black finish design. It is a newly released RC helicopter that many people have nee looking forward to buying.
It has a 3D flip function and it also has night flight helping features that have LED flashing lights. It has a 6 axis gyro stabilization system to keep the flight very smooth and it also has a safe guard protective frame for durability. In addition, you can switch from beginner mode to high skill mode. The RC helicopter uses 7.4 V 180mAh battery lithium polymers and the control distance is 30 meters. It has 30 minutes charge time and it can fly to about 6 to 7 minutes.
The RC helicopter’s 2.4 GHz technology makes it anti-interference in flight and this typically means you can fly many of these at the same time. It has multi function on flips, rolls, basic movements, gravity control model and one key roll button function and this quad RC helicopter package includes the battery, USB charger, user’s manual 4 propellers and a transmitter.
With dimensions of 3 in x 3 in x 0.8 in, the TEC.BEAN X902 Black Spider Mini RC Quadcopter Drone with 3D Flip 2.4Ghz 6-Axis Gyro for Beginner, Black has 0.6 oz weight, 8.3 oz of shipping weight and is recommended for 14+ years.
RC Helicopter with 3.5 Channel
Syma S111G 3.5 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro
The Syma S111G 3.5 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro is very beginner friendly and easy to fly. It uses lithium polymer battery and with a brushed motor, it also includes a USB cable and a tail blade. In addition it can be charged using controller and / or USB cable.
The RC helicopter can fly from 5 to 8 minutes and it can fly up to 8 meters. The battery information: 3.7 V 150 mAh lithium polymers. It charges to about 40 minutes and it has a 2 frequency gyro. It can move in various ways and it is recommended for indoor use only.
With the dimensions of 17 in x 7 in x 3 in, the Syma S111G 3.5 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro weighs 0.3 oz and has a shipping weight of 1.1 lbs. It is recommended for 8+ years and requires 6 AA batteries.
Best Small RC Helicopter
Coocheer JJRC H18 Mini Drone Nano Hexacopter
The Coocheer JJRC H18 is a cute RC helicopter to consider. It has the size of the drone RC helicopter is 7.3 cm x 8.5 cm or 2.85 in x 3.32 in.
This RC helicopter runs on 3.7 battery 180mAh lithium ion battery built-in with a control distance that is up to 20 meters. Being very durable and lightweight, it uses ABC material. As a 4 channel transmitter, it has total dimensions of 3.4 in x 2.9 in x 1 in and weighs 5.6 oz.
The Coocheer can do 360 degree flips with a 2.4 GHz radio, a 6 axis gyro system and can fly from 5 to 6 minutes. It has a charging time of 40 minutes
The package contains RC helicopter mini drone, 4 replacement blades, user’s manual, USB charging cable and remote controller. The transmitter requires 2 AAA batteries and is recommended for 13+ years and is colored in black and green finish design.
RC Helicopter which Includes an HD Camera
Hubsan X4 H107C with HD 2MP Camera 2.4G 4CH 6 Axis Gyro RC Quadcopter, Mode 2 RTF
Coming with an HD camera at 2 megapixels, the Hubsan X4 H107C with HD 2MP Camera 2.4G 4CH 6 Axis Gyro RC Quadcopter, Mode 2 RTF has a 2.4 GHz radio system 4 channel and it has LED lights for night flight, recommended for 14+ ages.
The battery uses lithium polymer 380 mAh 3.7 V batteries and is made from plastic and alloy. It can run up in the air for 9 minutes and it charges up to 30 minutes. It has a 6 axis gyro and with its ready to fly design, it allows charging through the computer using its included USB charging cable. You can easily move and flip it in 4 different ways.
Coated in red and black motif design finish, it includes user’s manual, 4 rotors, a remote control and a USB cable, weighs 1.1 lbs and has overall dimensions of 14 in x 7 in x 3 in.
White Smooth Design RC Helicopter
Cheerwing Syma X8W FPV Real-time 2.4Ghz 6 Axis Gyro Headless Quadcopter Drone with HD Camera RTF, White
With a 2.4 GHz radio, the Cheerwing Syma X8W FPV Real-time 2.4Ghz 6 Axis Gyro Headless Quadcopter Drone with HD Camera RTF, White has a gyro that s 6 axis and a headless design. It comes with 6 layers of SLR level lens and it is the perfect photography and real-time quad copter RC helicopter. In addition, it also has a 3D lock.
The RC helicopter comes with a WiFi real-time transmission and the nose direction is the same as the multi-rotor. It is also FPV enabled for iOS and Android phones and also has a cell phone holder. It can have a 360 degree roll with just a touch of a key and it is also available in black.
The control distance is up to 70 meters and comes with a 2 megapixel high definition camera. It is capable of 3D rolling and is also good for left-handed pilots. The battery of the helicopter is 7.4 V 2000 mAh lithium polymers and the battery of the controller is 1.5 V AA batteries x 6. The flying time is about 7 to 10 minutes.
The Cheerwing Syma comes with screwdriver, phone grip, 4 propellers, AC charger and remote controller. It has dimensions of 24 in x 24 in x 7.5 in and weighs 3.3 lbs.
Economically Priced Quad Copter RC Helicopter
Syma X11 R/C Quadcopter
The Syma X11 R/C Quadcopter uses Spread Spectrum technology for the 2.4 GHz controller and is good for both indoor and outdoor use. It requires 4 AA batteries for the controller and is a 2 speed RC helicopter with 2 frequency.
With 6 axis and capable of throw flying, it includes a tail blade and a screwdriver and can be charged with USB and controller. It uses a 3.7 B 150 mAh lithium polymer battery. It can fly from 5 to 7 minutes and it can fly up to 40 meters. It charges about 40 minutes and it can do 360 degree flips. It is a complete set for drone RC helicopter flying and even has a prop guard and 4 spare propellers. It also comes in white and black colors
With 8 oz of weight, the Syma X11 R/C Quadcopter – Red has dimensions of 14 in x 7 in x 3 in and is recommended for 14 years and above.
Feature-Packed Hexacopter RC Helicopter
DBPOWER X600C FPV RC Hexacopter Drone with Wifi Camera Live Video Headless Mode 2.4GHz 4 Chanel 6 Axis Gyro RTF Left and Right Hand Mode Quadcopter for IOS & Android System
The DBPOWER X600C FPV RC Hexacopter Drone with Wifi Camera Live Video Headless Mode 2.4GHz 4 Chanel 6 Axis Gyro RTF Left and Right Hand Mode Quadcopter for IOS & Android System is a 6 axis gyro that is ready to fly and is a uniquely designed hexacopter with a sleek black finish.
Being FPV enabled, it has a 2.4 GHz radio, 4-channel and it also has a left and right mode. It can be used with iOS or Android systems and it has a one key recall function. The RC helicopter includes a 0.3 MP camera and is attachable with other accessories. It is greatly recommended for 14 years and up and is capable of WiFi control and radio control.
The control range is up to 100 meters and it can fly from 8 to 10 minutes. It also has a throw to fly action. It is able to do 360 degree flips and can do hovering and sideward flights. The transmitter requires 3 AA batteries and it charges at 120 minutes. The package includes screwdriver, user’s manual, camera and components, 6 spare propeller blades, lithium battery 7.4 V 700 mAh, 2 landing gear, 6 propeller guards, transmitter and 12 screws.
With dimensions of 15 in x 5 in x 2 in, the DBPOWER X600C FPV RC Hexacopter Drone with Wifi Camera Live Video Headless Mode 2.4GHz 4 Chanel 6 Axis Gyro RTF Left and Right Hand Mode Quadcopter for IOS & Android System has 2.2 lbs of weight and 2.4 lbs of shipping weight. The drone has red and blue LED lights. Because it weighs less than 198 g, it does not require to be registered.
The Competition
As for the competition, there is not much to say since most RC helicopters out there don’t have a lot of features unlike these RC helicopters. These helicopters that we picked here are the best of the best when it comes to stability and price.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the advantages of playing with and flying an RC helicopter?
A: According to this article from Self Growth, you receive happiness and success when getting it to fly and you get a sense of responsibility. It is also a great family bonding for children and parents and in addition, anyone can learn how to manage things. People tend to have faster thoughts and quick responses and thinking with RC helicopter flying and it is also great exercise outdoors even as a hobby. Overall, it gives thrill and excitement to the person.
Q: What should I consider before buying an RC helicopter?
A: According to this article from eBay , you should know the types of RC helicopters. There are toy types as well as hobby grade helicopters and there are also quad copters and drones. There are single rotors for beginners and collective pitch hobby grade for better control. You should consider the number of channels and the power source is mostly electric batteries or glow fuel. Consider availability of the parts of the RC helicopter and take note of its durability and construction. The common parts are plastic, aluminum and carbon fiber and normally, an RC helicopter can be attached with accessories.
Q: Any tips on taking care of my RC helicopter?
A: This guide from eBay can help you. It says that you should inspect thoroughly for damaged or worn parts, keep them in good condition, always perform a pre-flight check, store them in a good space, have spare parts ready and consider the size and cost of the RC helicopter parts.
Wrapping It Up
All in all, our best RC helicopter, the Syma S107G 3 Channel RC Helicopter with Gyro is the best when it comes to features and price, both as a toy for kids and as a hobby RC helicopter.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.