Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (2024)

Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (1)

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Updated Nov. 1, 2022: This piece was updated to reflect current pricing, including sales, and details specific to each remote control plane and helicopter.

Having a remote control plane or helicopter literally puts the thrill of flight in your hands. And if you've never flown a drone or played with a remote control car or monster truck, you won't have a hard time getting up to speed.

That said, there are plenty of considerations in the RC aviation world that don’t come into play on the ground. Of course, crashing your car or truck is a bummer, but unless the vehicle careens off a cliff, chances are it’ll survive most bumps and tumbles. Because the same can’t be said for crafts in flight, these days, many remote control planes and helicopters are equipped with technology to help you learn to fly—and to prevent crashes so you won’t destroy your new toy out of the box.

No matter what your flying experience may be, read on for our recommendations on the best remote control planes and helicopters for your consideration, plus everything you need to know before shopping.

Best Remote Control Planes and Helicopters

What to Consider

There are models on the market for every skill level, and plenty with features for beginner, intermediate, and advanced pilots alike. If you're a newbie, basics to look for include one-key takeoff and landing, auto hover (also called attitude mode, where altitude is maintained even if you take your hands off the controller), and safety features, like emergency stop. More sophisticated (and often pricier) RC planes and copters have brushless motors and are capable of performing 3D maneuvers. As mentioned above, many RC planes and copters have built-in safety technology, so newbie pilots will want to look out for that.

Another consideration is battery life and flight time. Most models come with two rechargeable batteries, and each will give you roughly 10 minutes of airtime or less—even those on the high end. The remote control's range is also important, and transmission distance is typically 300 feet or more. Some planes have a built-in camera to capture footage in real time, or space in the fuselage to install your own. Extras like working LED lights and add-ons such as floats for water landings make the flying experience more realistic.

Finally, you’ll see remote control planes and copters with the words “ready-to-fly,” or RTF, which means that everything you need to operate the craft—like the transmitter, charger, and battery—comes in the box. Keep in mind that not all models have essentials included, so make sure to add in the extra cost.

How We Selected

Every remote control plane and helicopters we cover has an average customer rating of 4 stars or more. We made our final selection based on quality of materials and overall durability, ease of use for beginners and features to challenge more advanced pilots, battery life, and models that span multiple price points.

Looking for more awesome toys to give as gifts? Check out our stories on the best robot toys, the best remote control toys, and the best science toys.

1

Best Overall Helicopter

Syma Remote Control Helicopter

Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (12)

Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (13)

1

Best Overall Helicopter

Syma Remote Control Helicopter

Now 42% Off

Pros
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (14)Affordable price point
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (15)One-key takeoff/landing
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (16)Auto-hover and emergency stop
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (17)Flashing LED light
Cons
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (18)Indoor use only

This value-pack remote control helicopter is made for indoor use only, but it still gives pilots plenty of action. Your can fly the metal alloy bird from a distance of up to 65 feet away, with up to six minutes of flight time per rechargeable battery.

Features include one-key takeoff and landing, auto hover, emergency stop, and a flashing LED light. Plus, if you have a buddy with the same copter, you can fly two at once, with two frequencies to choose from.

Key Specs

Dimensions8.8 x 4 x 1.6 inches
Weight12.3 ounces
Flight Time~5-6 minutes
Battery (3) 7V 150 mAh

2

Best Overall Plane

CredevZone RC Airplane

Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (19)

2

Best Overall Plane

CredevZone RC Airplane

Pros
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (20)Great design
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (21)Three-level flight control
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (22)Impressive range and solid flight time
  • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (23)Extra propellers included
Cons

    This reasonably priced remote control plane is a great choice for beginners—and a great choice overall. There are two launch modes—an easy throw toss or takeoff from the ground using the controller—and three-level flight control.

    It's also made of a durable plastic to withstand crashes, has a wingspan of nearly 16 inches (a good size for newbies to handle) and an incredibly impressive radio control range of 656 feet.

    The plane comes with two rechargeable batteries, each giving roughly 15 minutes of flight time, plus an extra set of propellers.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions15.7 x 11 x 5.5 inches
    Weight1.5 pounds
    Flight Time~15 minutes
    Battery(2) 3.7V 400mAh LiPo

    3

    Budget Buy

    Cheerwing Mini RC Helicopter

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (24)

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (25)

    3

    Budget Buy

    Cheerwing Mini RC Helicopter

    Now 14% Off

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (26)Two speed modes
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (27)One-key takeoff/landing and Auto hover
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (28)Integrated LED lights
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (29)Spare parts included
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (30)Small size

    If you're looking for an inexpensive remote control helicopter that checks boxes for all the must-have basics, plus a few nice extras, this is the one to buy.

    The mini RC copter is made of metal with flexible propellers and features two speed modes, so beginners can level-up to more advanced flying, one-key takeoff and landing, and auto hover for flight without holding the controller.

    There are also built-in LED lights to fly the helicopter in the dark and a spare parts set that includes a tail blade and connect buckle.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions10.6 x 4.7 x 1.8 inches
    Weight15.1 ounces
    Flight Time~5-6 minutes
    Battery (3) 7V 350mah LiPo

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    4

    Best WWII Plane

    Devsolution P-51D Mustang RC Airplane

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (31)

    4

    Best WWII Plane

    Devsolution P-51D Mustang RC Airplane

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (32)Rad design
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (33)Three-level flight control
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (34)Steady in-flight with solid range
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (35)Shorter flight time

    Here's a great all-around remote control plane with three-level flight control, perfect for beginner, intermediate, and advanced pilots.

    It’s designed to look like World War II’s badass P-51D Mustang aircraft, and you can expect roughly 12 minutes of airtime per battery. It also has a control distance of 300, plus it’s super steady in flight thanks to a six-axis gyroscope.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions15.7 x 12.8 inches
    Weight1.4 pounds
    Flight Time~12 minutes
    Battery (3) 3.7V 360mAh

    5

    Best Drone Helicopter

    Syma Remote Control Helicopter with Camera

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (36)

    5

    Best Drone Helicopter

    Syma Remote Control Helicopter with Camera

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (37)Great price point for a drone copter
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (38)Built-in 1080P HD camera
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (39)Custom flight routes via app
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (40)360-degree rolls and flips
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (41)Shorter flight time

    This smart-looking helicopter has a fantastic price point—less than $100 at the time of this writing—considering it features a built-in 1080P HD camera with 90-degree adjustable angle and real-time transmission to your smartphone using the app.

    You can also design your own flight routes using the app. The helicopter can perform 360-degree flips and rolls, with an approximate 12-minute flight time and one-key landing and takeoff.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions8.9 x 4.9 x 5.3 inches
    WeightNot listed
    Flight Time~12 minutes
    Battery(3) 7V/500mAh

    6

    Best Glider

    Volantexrc PhoenixS RC Airplane

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (42)

    6

    Best Glider

    Volantexrc PhoenixS RC Airplane

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (43)Impressive wingspan
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (44)Space in fuselage for camera
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (45)360-degree rotation
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (46)Brushless motor
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (47)No radio transmitter, receiver, and charger included
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (48)No flight time listed

    With a wingspan of more than 5 feet, this glider soars through the air, plus its plastic fuselage has space for a camera so you can capture it all. It can perform 360-degree rotation and it's easy to assemble, with plastic latches for securing the wings.

    The remote control airplane features a 1,400Kv brushless motor and servo, plus comes with decals, but the radio transmitter, receiver, and charger are sold separately.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions63 x 45 inches
    Weight5.4 pounds
    Flight TimeNot listed
    Battery 7.4V 1500mAh LiPo (not included)

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    7

    Best Mid-Priced Plane

    E-flite UMX Turbo Timber RC Plane

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (49)

    7

    Best Mid-Priced Plane

    E-flite UMX Turbo Timber RC Plane

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (50)Short takeoffs/landings
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (51)Brushless motor
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (52)Updated landing gear
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (53)LED strobe lights
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (54)No battery or charger included

    The details on this small but powerful prop plane are what make it a standout worth its price tag. For starters, it offers short takeoffs and landings, with functional oversized flaps, plus a 3,400Kv brushless motor for next-level maneuvers and updated landing gear, which includes LED navigation and strobe lights.

    It's ultra-stable and super smooth in flight, suitable for pilots of all levels. Those who or more advanced may wish to purchase floats for water takeoffs and landings, which are sold separately. You'll also need to buy a battery and compatible charger, which aren't included.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions8.4 x 27.6 inches
    Weight2.7 pounds
    Flight Time~6 minutes
    Battery2S 280mAh LiPo (not included)

    8

    Best Mid-Priced Helicopter

    Omphobby Remote Control Helicopter

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (55)

    8

    Best Mid-Priced Helicopter

    Omphobby Remote Control Helicopter

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (56)Performs extreme 3D maneuvers
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (57)Customizable flight control
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (58)All-metal gear
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (59)Short flight time

    If you truly love being a helicopter pilot and want an upgraded model, this is an excellent choice. It features auto-hover and high-performing 3D modes and you can easily switch between them, plus adjustable flight control parameters, such as gyro sensitivity, rates, and gain, to customize different flying styles.

    It also has quality all-metal gear and an approximate flight time of 9 minutes, though less is you're doing extreme 3D maneuvers.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions11.4 x 6.5 x 11.4 inches
    Weight4.2 ounces
    Flight Time~9 min (~4 min. for 3D maneuvers )
    Battery2S 350mAh 50C

    9

    Best High-End Airplane

    HobbyZone RC Airplane Carbon Cub S 2

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (60)

    9

    Best High-End Airplane

    HobbyZone RC Airplane Carbon Cub S 2

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (61)Comes ready to fly
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (62)Three-level flight modes
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (63)GPS-enabled safety features
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (64)Brushless motor
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (65)Pricey

    With even more to spend, this RC prop plane from HobbyZone is well worth a look. It's capable of aerial maneuvers like rolls and inverted flight, and comes ready to fly, with a transmitter, charger, and battery. The plane features three-level flight modes on its remote control for beginner, intermediate, and advanced pilots. Plus, top-of-the-line GPS-enabled safety technology, and a powerful brushless motor.

    Other highlights include oversized tires for soft landings on a variety of surfaces and durable yet lightweight construction. There are also optional floats for water landings sold separately.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions45 x 18.5 x 6.2 inches
    Weight4.6 pounds
    Flight TimeNot listed
    Battery 2200mAh 3S 11.1V Smart LiPo

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    10

    Best Splurge

    E-flite Habu STS Smart Jet

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (66)

    10

    Best Splurge

    E-flite Habu STS Smart Jet

    Pros
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (67)Sleek and lightweight
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (68)Awesome thrust
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (69)Brushless motor and 10-blade fan
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (70)Upgraded landing gear
    Cons
    • Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (71)Expensive

    If you're looking to splurge on a craft, you'd be hard-pressed to find one as sleek as this jet. It has a lightweight, but durable, airframe designed for lower speeds so novice pilots can handle navigation.

    The E-flite features a brushless power system and a 10-blade fan that gives it serious thrust. The landing gear is another highlight, with a wide stance, and three wheels with oversized tires, to touch down on everything from grass to pavement.

    Key Specs

    Dimensions45 x 41 inches
    Weight2.5 pounds
    Flight Time ~3-6 minutes
    Battery 3S 4000mAh Smart LiPo

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (72)

    Rachel Klein

    Senior Commerce Editor

    Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics, where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you'll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend.

    Here Are the Raddest Remote Control Planes and Helicopters to Buy Right Now (2024)

    FAQs

    Which is the best RC helicopter company? ›

    List of Best Remote Control Helicopters
    Best-Selling Remote Control HelicoptersAmazon RatingAmazon Price
    VEZIMON® RC Flying Helicopter3.9/5Explore Now
    Moon Toys Remote Control Helicopter3.6/5Explore Now
    VRIKRION Toy Flying Helicopter3.7/5Explore Now
    KeenKid Remote Control Helicopter3.9/5Explore Now
    4 more rows
    Feb 7, 2024

    What is the best size RC plane? ›

    In our opinion, RC Planes for beginners should not be smaller than a 24″ wing span. Smaller airplanes can fly well, but they are affected by wind a lot more than bigger airplanes, and they can also be more difficult to control due to their size. A good sized beginner airplane would be in the 42″-48″ wing span.

    Which is better RC plane or drone? ›

    More stable flight: RC planes are generally more stable in the air because they have larger wings and can handle more wind. Greater range: RC planes can travel much farther than drones because they are not limited by the range of a remote control.

    Are drones better than RC planes? ›

    Differences Between Quadcopters and RC Planes

    Stability: Quadcopters are more stable than RC planes, making them easier to fly for beginners. Versatile: Quadcopters are more versatile than RC planes, and they can be used for a wider range of activities. Cost: Quadcopters are generally more expensive than RC planes.

    What is the best helicopter for a private owner? ›

    In this guide, we explore the best helicopters for private use, examining their features, capabilities, and suitability for various requirements.
    • Airbus H160. Airbus ACH160. ...
    • Bell 429. Bell 429. ...
    • Leonardo AW109. Leonardo AW139. ...
    • Sikorsky S-76D. Sikorsky S-76D. ...
    • Robinson R66. Robinson R66. ...
    • Airbus H145. Airbus H145.
    May 18, 2023

    Do you need a license to fly RC helicopters? ›

    You need a Part 107 license in the US if you want to fly your radio controller plane or helicopter and receive compensation (e.g. get paid for doing it).

    What is the best selling civilian helicopter? ›

    ROBINSON R44

    The R44 helicopter is the most popular helicopter for private owners. With autopilot and glass co*ckpit as the newest features, the R44 is a great bargain for first time owners.

    Do I need to register my RC plane? ›

    If you own an RC aircraft that weighs less than 250 grams, like the E-flite® UMX™ Radian® or an E-flite® UMX™ Night Vapor, there's no need to register with the FAA. However, anything larger than 250 grams must be registered, and unmanned aircraft weighing 55 pounds or greater require more extensive paperwork.

    How much does it cost to build an RC plane? ›

    Many kits come with poor quality hardware that should probably be replaced. These "not included" parts are covered by your $400. If you build your first plane, which I strongly recommend that you do, you will probably spend in the neighborhood of $100 on basic tools, glues and a small building board of some type.

    How long can a RC plane last? ›

    A battery-powered multirotor drone can fly from 15–40 minutes on one battery. And it makes little difference on how many batteries they have, or what size they are, since more batteries = more weight. Some have achieved 1 hour airtime, but those are purpose-built and are not suitable for everyday use.

    What size motor do I need for my RC plane? ›

    Electric motor power is stated in watts. 750 watts = 1 horsepower. An easy way to estimate power needs for RC hobby applications is to use 100 watts per pound for sport flying, 150 for aggressive aerobatics, 200 watts per pound for 3D flying.

    Is it easier to fly a RC plane or helicopter? ›

    You generally don't have to worry about a plane instantaneously changing altitude like you do with a heli. IMO, the only things that are easier with a helicopter are takeoffs and landings...and hovering and backward flight, of course.

    What is the biggest RC plane ever? ›

    currently this incredible replica Concorde? Built to a. 1:6 scale, it has a wingspan of 13ft, a length of 33ft, and is 6.1ft tall.

    What is the best looking plane of all time? ›

    The Most Beautiful Planes Ever Built
    • Beech Model 17. It's hard to believe that this striking, modern design has been flying since 1932. ...
    • Douglas DC-3. ...
    • Bombardier LearJet. ...
    • F-22 Raptor. ...
    • Concorde. ...
    • Track the Most Beautiful Planes in the Sky Now.
    Jan 31, 2019

    What is the most successful plane model? ›

    While the 737 and A320 are the world's top passenger jetliners, the plucky little four-seater Cessna 172 is the most successful civil aircraft in history, with more than 45,000 of them reported to have been built.

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