Best GPS Autopilots for your RC Helicopters and Their History

best-gps-autopilot-rc-helicopter-realistic-hovering-flight

Below is a timeline of significant GPS-enabled flight controllers for RC helicopters:

  • 2007: HeliCommand 3D
    • Manufacturer: Captron Electronic GmbH
    • Overview: One of the pioneering stabilization systems, offering drift correction and stabilization for RC helicopters.
      https://www.captron.com
  • 2009: ArduPilot
    • Developer: DIY Drones Community
    • Overview: An open-source autopilot system supporting various aircraft, including helicopters, with continuous development over the years.
      https://ardupilot.org/
  • 2010: KDS Flymentor 3D
    • Manufacturer: KDS
    • Overview: A stabilization system providing auto-leveling and position hold features, considered an affordable alternative to earlier systems.
      http://www.kdsmodel.com/
  • 2011: DJI Naza-H
    • Manufacturer: DJI Innovations
    • Overview: A flight control system offering GPS-based position hold, return-to-home, and stabilization for helicopters.
      https://www.dji.com/naza-h
  • 2012: Bavarian Demon 3X
  • 2013: Mikado VBar NEO
    • Manufacturer: Mikado Model Helicopters
    • Overview: A flybarless system with optional GPS sensor integration for telemetry and stabilization.
      https://www.vstabi.info/
  • 2020: FlyWing H1
    • Manufacturer: Shenzhen Feiyi Aviation Technology Co., Ltd.
    • Overview: A GPS-enabled flight controller offering features like auto-hover, return-to-home, and altitude hold.
      https://www.flywingrc.com
  • 2023: RadioMaster NEXUS
    • Manufacturer: RadioMaster RC
    • Overview: Designed specifically for RC helicopters, this controller offers advanced stabilization and is compatible with various receiver types.
      https://www.radiomasterrc.com

Manufacturer Insights and Product Details

  1. Captron Electronic GmbH / Bavarian Demon
    • Background: Initially known as Captron, the company developed the HeliCommand series. They later rebranded to Bavarian Demon, continuing to innovate in helicopter stabilization systems.
    • Notable Products: HeliCommand 3D, Bavarian Demon 3X
    • Current Status: While earlier models like the HeliCommand 3D are discontinued, Bavarian Demon continues to offer advanced stabilization systems.
  2. DIY Drones Community / ArduPilot
    • Background: An open-source community project that began in 2007, ArduPilot has evolved to support a wide range of vehicles, including helicopters.
    • Notable Products: ArduPilot Autopilot System
    • Current Status: Actively developed with a strong community, offering versatile and customizable solutions.
  3. KDS
    • Background: A Chinese manufacturer specializing in RC helicopters and accessories.
    • Notable Products: KDS Flymentor 3D
    • Current Status: The Flymentor 3D system is considered outdated, with limited availability.
  4. DJI Innovations
    • Background: A leading name in drone technology, DJI expanded into helicopter stabilization with the Naza-H system.
    • Notable Products: DJI Naza-H
    • Current Status: The Naza-H system is no longer in production, with DJI focusing on multirotor drones.
  5. Mikado Model Helicopters
    • Background: A German company renowned for producing high-quality RC helicopters and electronics.
    • Notable Products: VBar NEO
    • Current Status: The VBar NEO remains a popular choice among enthusiasts, offering advanced features and support.
  6. Shenzhen Feiyi Aviation Technology Co., Ltd. (FlyWing)
    • Background: A Chinese company specializing in RC helicopter technology.
    • Notable Products: FlyWing H1 Flight Controller, FW450 Helicopter
    • Current Status: Actively producing and supporting their products, with the H1 controller being a notable offering.
  7. RadioMaster RC
    • Background: Known for producing RC transmitters and accessories.
    • Notable Products: NEXUS Helicopter Flight Controller
    • Current Status: Recently introduced the NEXUS controller, designed specifically for RC helicopters.

Recommendations

  • For Beginners: The FlyWing H1 offers a user-friendly experience with features like auto-hover and return-to-home, making it ideal for newcomers.
  • For Advanced Users: The ArduPilot system provides extensive customization and versatility, suitable for those with technical expertise.
  • For Enthusiasts Seeking Modern Solutions: The RadioMaster NEXUS is a contemporary option with advanced stabilization features.

Availability

  • Currently Available: ArduPilot, FlyWing H1, Mikado VBar NEO, RadioMaster NEXUS
  • Discontinued or Limited Availability: HeliCommand 3D, KDS Flymentor 3D, DJI Naza-H

Note: Availability may vary based on region and retailer.

Did we miss any brand or model, let us know in the comment below!

a blonde woman taking a selfie in an open, bright green field. She’s crouching down slightly, smiling at the camera, and holding out her arm to capture the shot. She has striking blue eyes, and her hair is loose and slightly wavy. She’s wearing a light gray, long-sleeved top, and the lighting on her face is soft and natural, giving the image a warm, vibrant feel. Now, the real focus of the image is the RC helicopter hovering right in front of her. It’s a red and black high-performance model, clearly built for serious flying. You can see all the internal mechanical details, like servos, electronic components, and wiring, which give it an advanced, professional look. The main rotor and tail rotor are in motion, so it's actually hovering in place, not just sitting on the ground. Then, in the foreground, almost right in your face, is the RC transmitter (remote control). It's bright red and has a big display screen that reads "GPS AUTOPILOT" in bold letters. Above the screen, the word "GPS" is printed in large, attention-grabbing text. The transmitter is covered with switches, dials, and joysticks, making it look like a serious piece of tech for controlling this high-end RC helicopter. The background is a wide, open field with lush green grass stretching out behind her. The sky is bright blue with scattered fluffy white clouds, making it look like a perfect day for flying. The lighting is crisp and natural, giving everything a sharp, realistic appearance. Overall, this image screams "high-tech RC fun". The selfie angle makes it feel personal, like she’s showing off her latest gear. The GPS autopilot system on the transmitter hints at advanced flight tech, making it clear that this isn't just a basic toy—it’s a serious machine.

Author: V. Peters

Please leave a comment behind thank you. Tech enthusiast and blogger passionate about AI, smart home gadgets, and innovative technology. I love sharing in-depth guides, troubleshooting tips, and the latest trends to help you make the most of your devices. Let’s explore the future of tech together! I hope the info on this site is helpful to you.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x