Best RC Planes for Beginners

Tired of driving that RC car around? Why stay on the ground when you can be soaring up in the skies? Well, for those of you looking for an entry into the world of RC aircraft, this can be your chance!

RC planes may seem to be to complex and confusing devices for people, however, I can assure you that once you get to know them, they will be your go to rc vehicle for fun!

Want to find out more? Read ahead to take flight with the best RC planes for beginners.

Plane Parts to Know for Beginners

Rudder: The vertical stabilizers at the tail of the plane are called rudders, The rudder helps the plane bank left or right. Rudder based rotation is called yaw.

Elevators: The horizontal stabilizer below the rudder are called elevators. They tilt up and down and help the plane pitch up and down, lowering or raising its altitude.

Ailerons: The fins along the back edges of the wings are called ailerons. They can tilt up or down in opposite directions and cause the plane to roll. They are essential for performing stunts and acrobatics.

Differential Thrust: Propellers on each wing can be used instead of the rudder to help the plane turn. However, they are less agile.

Types of RC Planes

RC planes are basically Radio controlled planes that you can operate from a distance. These beasts can be divided into the following types.

By Skill

Trainer Planes: These planes are perfect for beginners as they are more durable and sturdier. They can take blow after blow. You will not have to worry about crashing them down. So, if you are just treading out into the world of RC crafts, we recommend you use this plane.

Acrobatic Planes: These planes are best used by professionals as they are very complicated and come with 4-6 channels which can be harder to operate. In the hands of a seasoned professional, these planes can show off incredible stunts and acrobatics.

2&3 Channel Planes: 2 channel planes are easier to use since you only need to control the rudder and propeller to use the craft. 3 Channel plane include 3 types of control which can help you maneuver the plane however you want.

We recommend 2 channel planes for absolute beginners, while 3 channel planes would be better for hobbyists.

By Power

Electric Powered Planes: Electric powered planes are powered by batteries and are lightweight and portable. They are much quieter as well and do not require a very large flying area,

Gas Powered Planes: Gas powered planes offer a lot more power than their electrical counterparts. They are much easier to handle and can bear with all types of weather conditions.

Glider Planes: These planes do not require any kind of power and instead they choose to glide. They are silent, however, you cannot control their speeds.

Buying Guide for RC planes

Even professionals can get bamboozled by the so called best RC planes available in the market. You need to research into the various attributes the best RC planes offer and find out how they will help you or how they can make your plane better than others.

Sounds like a lot of hard work? Well, not to worry! We have already done all the work for you. Here are the top attributes you need to look into before you decide on buying an RC place.

Choose the Plane According to Your Skill Type

You can choose any of the above types of planes you want according to your skill level. If you are a beginner we recommend you choose an electric trainer with 2 channels since they are easy to control and you will get a general gist of how to fly the plane.

For professionals, we would recommend acrobatic planes powered by gas that have more than 3 channels for a truly outstanding performance.

Construction Material

Another feature to consider is the construction material. It is important for the material to be light and durable at the same time. Impact resistant materials will help you a lot in coming out of crashes without a scratch.

The three most common materials are Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) and Expanded polyolefin (EPO). EPS is mostly used due to its impact resistance, however, if it does get any dents or scratches, it is almost impossible to take them out.

Flight Time

Flight time is very important, it would be a drag to only be able to fly for 3 minutes. At least 8 to 10 minutes of flying time should be sufficient. Although most beginner rc planes cannot fly for longer than 8 minutes.

There are ways to increase flight times, such as upgrading to a better battery, or even adding additional batteries.

Control / Channels

RC planes are harder to control than any other RC vehicle. They have a lot of features and can easily reach higher speeds. Look for features that can aid you in controlling the plane such as SAFE Technology which reduces any risk of accidents.

Also, a panic button is a plus since it helps you level the plane in case things spiral out of control. Beginner or professional, we recommend both to consider this feature.

Budget

RC Planes can be very expensive and you might get overwhelmed by the many features they offer. But, buying an rc plane on a whim is never recommended. It’s best to first assess your skill level and then set a reasonable budget for yourself.

Crashes are bound to happen, and if you’re a complete beginner to RC planes then buying a more expensive plane could be a costly mistake. Buy a plane within a reasonable price range and then upgrade once you master the controls.

Dimensions

Dimensions should be considered as well. Smaller planes are easier to fly and can be used indoors. Didn’t know you could fly an RC plane indoors? There are many venues and events around for indoor flying.

For a beginner a smaller rc plane is ideal, they are generally less expensive so you can get into the hobby a little cheaper. The main issue with smaller planes is their weight, they are lighter so they can be swept away by high winds.

Best RC Planes for Beginners

Now that we have a little bit of background knowledge on what makes the best rc planes for beginners, let take a look at some RC planes. Each one of these are ideal planes for anybody who may be a beginner and is looking to get into this hobby.

These planes have plenty of great safety features to help you fly them, and they also can take a crash or 2 which is bound to happen for a beginner. In the event you need replacement parts, there are plenty available in the marketplace for each of these planes.

Funtech 3 Channel Remote Control Airplane

Conquering the skies comes the Funtech 3 Channel RC Airplane with its durable yet lightweight EPP (expanded polypropylene) construction.

The Funtech is perfect for those beginners who are just starting to tread into the world of RC planes. This is due to the small size of the plane and because it is simple and easy to operate. Simply keep the throttle low if you wish to have a horizontal flight and raise it as much as you want the plane to climb.

Also included are two motors that help it bank left or right. The plane comes pre-assembled and ready to fly. The standard radio control system with a 2.4GHz technology and 3 channels to ensure an interference-free flight.

Additionally, the wingspan of the plan is about 200 mm. The built-in battery is a 3.7 V 180mAh Li-Po battery that includes about 6-8 minutes of play time. The charging time is approximately 20-25 minutes. Soar ahead of all competition with the Funtech RC plane!

Pros:

1. Ready to Fly.
2. Lightweight yet durable chassis.
3. Simple and efficient operation.
4. Interference-free flight due to 3 channels.
5. Control range: 10m.

Cons:

1. The play time is very small about 6-8 minutes.

HobbyZone Champ RTF Airplane

The HobbyZone Champ RC Plane is literally the champion of the skies with its pre-assembled and flight ready construction. No more hassles with getting the plane together. No more head scratching figuring out which part goes where.

The 2.4 GHz transmitter is equipped with Spektrum DSM technology utilized by professional real-life pilots all around the globe. This ensures you can enjoy soaring the winds without any worries of interference.

The plane runs on a 3.7 V 150mAh Li-Po battery. Also included is a USB charger. The total flight time of the battery is about 8-10 minutes while the battery takes about 20 minutes to charge.

The wingspan of the plane is 515 mm which ensures a better flight. The tail wheel is steerable which will help you fly the plane even more efficiently.

The plane is small in size i.e. 19.9 x 19.2 x 6.2 inches which allows you can fly it in close quarters as well. The HobbyZone is sure to help any beginner find their place in the elusive skies!

Pros:

1. Durable and lightweight polystyrene body.
2. Ready to Fly.
3. Interference-free flight due to DSM technology.
4. Easy and Simple to operate making it perfect for beginners.
5. A range of 300 ft.
6. Small size making it perfect to fly in closed places.

Cons:

1. The play time of 8 minutes is too small.

Hobbyzone Sports Cub S RTF RC Airplane

The HobbyZone Sports Cub S RC Plane is hands down one of the best RC planes for beginners currently in the market. Suitable for beginners, it comes pre-assembled, having everything you need to have your first flight.

The plane comes with a Panic button that allows the plane to level in case of emergencies or loss of control. Also included is the Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope Technology (SAFE) which improves stability and handling of the plane allowing you total control of the plane.

The frame of the plane is constructed from polystyrene foam which renders the plane light and durable.

Also included is 4 Channel control with its 2.4 GHz transmitter allowing you to do all kinds of stunts. The wingspan of the plane is about 616 mm.

The battery included is a 150mAH 3.7V LiPo one which has a charging time of 45 minutes with a flight time of 8 minutes.

The innovative design and the beginner-friendly technology ensures heads turning when this blue beast takes flight!

Pros:

1. Ready to Fly.
2. Includes a panic button that levels the plane.
3. Improved stability and handling due to SAFE Technology.
4. Performs stunts easily.
5. Allows you total control of the plane.
6. Beginner friendly and simple in operation.
7. Range: 325 ft.

Cons:

1. The Cub has a very small flying time of only 8 minutes.

HobbyZone Duet RTF HBZ5300 Airplane

The HobbyZone Duet RC Plane is another durable and reliable plane from the HobbyZone. The most intriguing feature is the differential thrusts that it uses to make turns since it has no rudders.

Although this does affect the steering and makes the plane slightly less agile, it still offers the advantage of a simpler design. The Duet is ready to fly with everything you need already included in the package.

Running on a 150mAh LiPO battery, you will generally get around 6 to 8 minutes of flight time from this plane. While this isn’t exceptional flight time, it is acceptable for an rc plane in this price range. The charging time is approximately 50 minutes.

The plane features a Virtual Instructor Technology that provides control assistance and helps you operate in all kinds of weather conditions.

The plane is made of a light polystyrene foam which is what makes it so lightweight and durable. The wingspan of this plane is 20.5 inches.

All these features make it the perfect choice for beginners and younger RC crafts enthusiasts!

Pros:

1. Ready to fly and pre-assembled.
2. Control assistance provided by Virtual Instructor Tech.
3. Lightweight and durable polystyrene construction.
4. Propellers can spin at different speeds.
5. Simple and quick operation.
6. Range: 352 ft.

Cons:

1. The absence of rudders makes it less agile.
2. Provides only 6 minutes of fly time.
3. Cannot perform stunts.

Flyzone DHC-2 Beaver Select Ready to Fly Aircraft

The Flyzone Beaver Select is yet another ready to fly rc plane which is perfect for beginners due to its simple and quick operation. It includes Tactic 2.4 GHz radio featuring a Secure Link Technology ensuring an unbreakable bond between your transmitter and the plane.

It includes six channels that help you perform acrobatics of all kinds. It utilizes a Brushless motor and a 40A ESC to help you control the speed of the plane. The chassis is made of an AeroCell foam which provides durability and lightness to the plane. It is faster than its lifelike version providing you with speeds twice that of the original one.

Also included is a wireless trainer feature that helps you provide stability to the plane. Lights are included as well to help you navigate in the dark. This means your sky conquering agenda doesn’t have to stop just because the sun went down!

Pros:

1. Ready to Fly.
2. Interference-free transmission due to SLT.
3. Lightweight yet durable Aerocell foam chassis.
4. Easy navigation in the dark.
5. The wireless trainer provides stability.

Cons:

1. It has a small range of about 70 feet.
2. The flight time is merely 7 minutes.

Conclusion

RC planes have taken the world by storm, they are now everywhere from flying competitions to many neighborhood parks & backyards. Anyone of these beginner rc planes will help you set out in this new world.

Perhaps none can help you more than the HobbyZone Sports Cub S. The model is hands down one of the best rc planes for beginners, as it features a panic button allowing you to level the plane in case you lose control.

It features SAFE Technology as well which allows for better stability of the plane and it reduces risk and prevents any potential crashes.

The 4 Channel control might be harder to operate in the beginning, however we believe in the long run this is the best choice and you will become a better rc pilot because of it.