RC cars, trucks, buggies and motorcycles are quite alright, but the fact remains that flying contraptions are often the genre of RC vehicles most likely to knock the socks off any R/C enthusiast. Remote controlled airplanes are a perfect example of a traditional flying RC favorite – they are unrelenting in their ability to deliver in exciting stunts because of their nimble quality. Don’t even get me started on how fast they get while seamlessly simulating real-life flight situations so that you are tempted to forget you aren’t a real pilot.
Forget that last part – if you are capable of flying an RC air plane, then you are a real pilot.
This guide will serve the ultimate goal of de-stressing your decision for which R/C plane to buy (and which to steer clear from). But before I jump right into the nitty-gritty of things; here is some general knowledge information on the subject.
But before you began I wanted to let you know that if you are into flying you may also be interested in knowing the highest quality helicopter on the market or maybe knowing which are the 10 fastest jets.
What Are The Types of Best RC Planes Available?
Remote control planes may be distinguished by a few factors, other than their brand or manufacturers. In the light of so many parameters to consider, knowing and choosing the right airplane might prove to be a bit of a hassle because it takes quite a bit of research. Not to worry, I’ve got you covered.
Types of RC Plane (By Skill)
- Trainer Planes:
Trainer remote controlled planes as their name implies, are airplanes most suitable for beginners. They are built to be more tolerant and forgiven of the misdeeds of R/C learner pilots. So if what you are looking to find is a beginner plane, I advise you restrict your search to this category of aircraft.
- Acrobatic Planes:
Acrobatic RC planes represent everything that trainer planes are not. They are crafted especially for seasoned hobbyists that are looking to show off their acquired skills in their field of play. They are certainly not for people who aren’t high-end type hobbyists with advanced skill sets.
- 2 & 3 Channel Planes:
A 2 channel plane is a more basic version of 3 4 channel type plane. They are characterized by two types of controls – a propeller and rudder that serve to move the aircraft.
Three channel planes, on the other hand, have three types of controls. These provide advanced options for flexibility and carrying out maneuvers that would normally be impossible with two channel planes or beginner pilots.
Types of RC Plane (By Power)
- Electric Powered Planes:
Electric powered planes are, well…Electric powered, among other things. They provide ease of transport because they are typically known to be lightweight and portable, and are quieter than their counterparts; they also do not require extensive flying areas.
- Gas Powered Planes:
While gas powered RC planes may not offer the smooth experience that an Electric R/C typically would, they have a lot more power. As a plus, they are slightly easier to handle in windy conditions because of their retractable gears.
- Glider Planes:
These planes pretty much ‘glide’ all through the action. They do not need gas or electrical energy, and they are virtually silent for the most part.
What You Should Consider Before Choosing an RC Airplane
When it comes to RC planes, you would be thoroughly mistaken to jump into a purchase without caution. If you are serious about enjoying your remote control experience, here are a few things you will take into consideration.
- Take off Space:
It is important to consider your choice for a large or small plane with an eye on how much space you have to fly it. Smaller planes may not require very much space, but larger planes often need to be launched using a runway.
- Landing:
Consider landing and what your options are. More often than we like to admit, some aircraft options do not come with retractable wheels that keep the plane protected when landing. These planes often need a softer landing area. Larger planes, on the other hand, need bigger landing areas to ensure a smooth landing. If your landing area is windy, you might consider buying a larger model that is more wind resistant.
- Speed:
The available speed of remote control planes ranges from 30mph up to 200mph. Lower rates might be appropriate for beginners, but they certainly won’t excite experienced pilots.
Okay, if we are going to find you an RC plane, we better get started before your brand new curiosity burns out to something like drones, well I have done the 10 perfect drones for anyone reviewed.
Here are our top 10 picks:
HobbyZone Sports Cub S RTF (Top Aircraft for Beginners)
There are more than just a few reasons why the Hobby Zone Sports Cub S is one of the best remote controls you’ll find for sale. For one, it is marketed as beginner friendly because of its polystyrene foam body which makes it light and durable but also quite easy to fly. And better still – crash tolerant.
The Sports Cub is regarded a smaller version of the Hobby Zone Super Cub; the scaled down modifications make it a perfect choice for kids as well as inexperienced adult pilots. This is further guaranteed by the incorporated SAFE stabilization technology that makes flying the plane much easier than it used to be. Plus, it comes fully assembled and RTR, so that you don’t have to worry about piecing it together before getting on the runway and engaging.
Product Specs.
Manufacturer: HobbyZone
Name: HobbyZone Sports Cub S RTF RC Plane
Color: Blue & White
Dimensions: 21.8 × 21.5×5.8
Weight: 1 Pound
Flying Weight: 57g
Material: Foam
Recommended Age:14 Years and up.
The appeal of the HobbyZone Sports Cub extends to include the fact that it has 4-channel controls. This means that its features include the throttle and aileron which allow even beginners explore a more advanced style of flying taking on loops and barrel rolls even with being such a simple setup.
It comes with a few downsides, however; one of which includes the fact that it has such a short flight time of 8 minutes – drastically limiting your fun. But if you consider the fact that you won’t have to worry so much about time wasted on crashing and recovery, thanks to its three flying modes – this is no deal breaker. Or at least, I think so.
Pros
- Features SAFE stabilization technology
- Includes three different modes of flying – for various skill sets
- Have 4-channel controls
- Light, durable and crash resistant
Cons
- 8-minute long flying time.
Flyzone Calypso Brushless Glider (Perfect for Kids)
The Calypso Brushless Glider sets the precedence for what glider planes should emulate. From its Aerocell foam frame that comes equipped with skid plates, allowing for smooth landings on various surface types – including grass and concrete runways to the fact that its Ailerons allow pilots to enjoy a generous performance envelope (while the more experienced ones can explore the option of a more advanced thermal casting).
With the Calypso, however, you will find that its strongest selling point is that even though the chassis is stuffed tight with a LiPo battery, propeller and brushless motor accompanied with a 18ESC and four channel radio – that is, along with every other thing you need to fly the plane. It comes almost RTR, but not entirely dismantled, so that you can try your hands at assembling the unattached parts with a Philips screwdriver (without glue), and you won’t have to worry so much about more advanced tech details that would limit you if you were assembling from scratch. Great right?
Product Specs.
Manufacturer: Flyzone
Name: Flyzone Calypso Brushless Glider
Color: Green & White
Dimensions: 9.9 × 10.2×45.6
Weight: 7.2 Pounds
Flying Weight: 820g
Recommended Age: 15 Years and up.
But the Calypso doesn’t stop there at trying to impress. It tops off its performance with the ability to monitor high altitudes with a trim scheme that comes in bright and high contrast.
And to make it more accepting of various parts, its onboard compartment allows for a variety of batteries and its SLT receiver is compatible with different SLT transmitters. So, a switch shouldn’t cost you any more than a few bucks.
Pros
- The Calypso is both tolerant of beginner mistakes & durable – while still providing a smooth experience for users
- It can fly straight upwards, even at full throttle.
- The Calypso provides excellent aerodynamics and sensational visuals
Cons
- Decals begin to lift almost as soon as you start to use the plane
- Its Rudder attachment does not line up well with the fuselage.
Sportsman S+ RTF (With HD Camera)
If you thought that the Sports Cub was an exciting prospect, then you’ll love the Hobby-Zone Sportsman S+ RTF, which – like the former, comes equipped with SAFE stabilization technology that provides guaranteed awareness of the pilot, further strengthened by the GPS system. So that even inexperienced pilots will not be limited by their inability to be adventurous.
The aspect of the Sportsman S+ RTF’s design that takes the cake is the fact that it is mounted with an HD camera. Combined with its GPS the S+ becomes a visual mastermind within its right, further offering an assurance of its capability by its full range spectrum transmitter.
Another element of the S+ worth talking about is the feature regarded as the holding pattern – with this characteristic, the plane engages automatically and is lifted to its location of take-off and circled at approximately 120ft altitude; this would be useful for beginner pilots who are looking for a headstart of sorts.
A few other features worthy of note is the S+ tricycling landing gear, and the rectangular setting and circular setting of the virtual fence – both of which allow the pilots choose a setting with that prevents any interfering aircraft’s to penetrate their 360-degree parameter.
And with the S+ impact resistance quality, conferred by its Z-foam stuffed chassis – beginners can crash away without fear.
Pros
- Mounted with an HD camera
- Tricycling landing gear makes landing easy
- Impact-resistant durable Z-foam
Cons
- The plane needs an experienced RC close by to handle its GPS problems when they arise.
Flyzone DHC-2 Beaver Select (Number 1 for Water Landing)
If what you are looking to buy is a bush plane, then the Flyzone DHC-2 Beaver Select won’t disappoint. To secure its internal components, the DHC-2 is stuffed into an AeroCell foam chassis. The result is an RC plane that is both durable as well as lightweight that would make flying a real breeze; even if you are adventurous and daring.
The DHC-2 comes equipped with lights to aid easy navigation, during operation and landing as well as a unique brushless motor and wing attachment system.
Impressive as all of these seem, the Beaver still wouldn’t have such exquisite realism if it hadn’t been for the windows and seats tucked within the cabin and belly of the aircraft. All of these combined would give the Beaver perfect scores in external features and unique flight quality.
Product Specs.
Manufacturer: Flyzone
Name: Flyzone DHC-2 Beaver Select
Color: White & Orange
Dimensions: 46.2 × 9.4×8.8
Weight: 21.3 Pounds
Recommended Age: 15 Years and up.
Unlike its full-scale version, which only operates with a maximum speed of 158MPH – this RC version of the plane will approach twice that speed – producing a few of the large loops even though roll rate is a little sluggish because of the longer wing. And with an SLT feature that creates between the receiver and transmitter, handling the plane is made even easier.
Pros
- The chassis is made from Aero-Cell foam.
- It is quite fast, operating at twice the speed of its larger scale version
- SLT feature creates a link between transmitter and receiver that eases handling.
- Comes with floats and landing gear
Cons
- Because of the longer wing, the roll rate is slightly disappointing.
HobbyZone Duet RFT HBZ5300 (Excellent R/C Airplane for New Pilots)
The HobbyZone Duet is the ultimate budget, beginner friendly R/C plane. With the RFT, not only would you have a standard plane for less than your estimated price, it would be remotely controlled that you could teach yourself to fly with.
Somehow it manages to be under-budget and still capable of shrugging off impact with ease, taking beginner recklessness in good spirits – for the quality it offers, you won’t find a cheaper R/C plane.
That isn’t to say that the RFT is particularly perfect; it is characterized by the lack of a rudder, and cannot be rebound because its transmitter only supports three channels, and cannot be migrated to different aircraft. But to make up for its shortcomings, it has two propellers that can spin at varying speeds because they are thrust differentially – the result is an RC that can make turns that are nothing short of remarkable.
Product Specs.
Manufacturer: HobbyZone
Name: HobbyZone Duet RFT HBZ5300 Airplane
Color: White & Yellow
Dimensions: 19.8 × 19.2×5
Weight: 2.2 Pounds
Recommended Age: 14 Years and up.
The polystyrene model RC comes quite small, but preassembled, that should provide ease of use without the hassle of trying to couple a few pieces together. And even though it might prove difficult in its use for acrobatics, mainly for its lack of ailerons and will not provide the breadth of motion offered by competitors, it manages to get you flying without boring a hole in your checking account. And more often than RC enthusiasts like to admit – that is good enough.
Pros
- Budget and beginner friendly
- Durable
- Its propellers can spin at different speeds.
Cons
- It doesn’t quite work for acrobatics
HobbyZone Champ RTF (Most Durable Airplane)
Another trainer plane that comes highly recommended is the Hobbyzone Champ and you can find a for sale deal all over the internet. Its strongest attractions are the compact and durable structure as well as its budget-friendliness. Granted, small isn’t always considered a wonderful idea where RC planes are concerned, but it might be an option you consider if you have a small take off and landing space – or if you have a tight budget.
While the design of the Hobbyzone champ plane looks very basic. Its color confers an element of sophistication to it so that one look at it leaves you in awe of its grand contrast against the royal blue sky – frankly, you might have a hard time allowing it a moment’s peace even though storage should be easy with its compact structure. But while you are on the move, its crash tolerant polystyrene chassis provides impact protection, so that you have minimal concerns were the Champ is concerned.
Product Specs.
Manufacturer: HobbyZone
Name: HobbyZone Champ RTF Airplane
Color: Yellow
Dimensions: 19.8 × 19.2×6.2
Weight: 2.2 Pounds
Recommended Age: 14 Years and up.
To top things off, the Champ is equipped with a 2.4GHz transmitter as well as a DSM technology radio system – and unlike the previously considered option, it can be bound or migrated because of the advanced radio system.
Owners would also have minimal worries where Li-Po batteries are concerned since it supports these battery types and is accompanied with a DC Li-Po charger.
Pros
- Durable and reliable polystyrene body
- Affordable and great for beginner pilots
- 4GHz Transmitter
Cons
- Too small.
ParkZone Sports Cub BNF Airplane (Top Choice for Trainer Pilots)
Of all our options, the Sports Cub BNF offers the remarkable potential to be a bush flying Maestro. By itself, it is capable of introducing newbie pilots to the wonder and thrill of backcountry piloting and RC flying.
It is a featured version of the Piper Super Cub and is molded from durable Z-foam guaranteeing its protection from external elements, and has an AS3X technology and Spektrum DSMX receiver pre-installed to broaden its capabilities.
Combined with its oversized tundra tires, the Sports Cub is not only impact resistant but has the tendency to give objects a beating of sorts. (Well, if that’s the kind of thing you are into)
Product Specs.
Manufacturer: ParkZone
Name: ParkZone Sports Cub BNF Airplane
Color: Yellow
Dimensions: 39.8 × 18 ×6.7
Weight: 5.6 Pounds
Recommended Age: 14 Years and up.
If you have any trouble flying the Sports Cub, here are a few tips you might find useful.
- The tires might prove too bulky for some pilots; if you are one of the simple-tire preferring pilots, consider switching them out for a 4-inch Dave Brown. They are a little wider and may be hard to cram in, but the experience is certainly worth it.
- If what you need are better directions, then you can paint the cowl a color that won’t be too hard to spot.
- During assembly, consider using the flaps and mixing in down elevator. You’re welcome.
Pros
- Simple Setup
- Perfect for trainer pilots
- Excellent Z-foam construction
Cons
- There is no flap servo.
- Tires might seem slightly bulky for a plane this size
E-Flite Apprentice S 15e RTF (Editor’s Choice)
The Apprentice is a favorite for the simple reason that it is both perfect for beginners and can easily make the transition into being acrobatic friendly. Sure it is another beginner pilot by E-flite, and before you say our list is overflowing with trainer pilots – you will admit that the E-flite Apprentice sets itself apart from the rest of the other Big RC Planes when you consider features.
It comes equipped with a brushless motor, which manages to make the blend between powerful and quiet. The Apprentice delivers the outstanding, seamless performance of providing long flights – especially while you are learning the basics and then takes its performance a notch higher by providing means of performing acrobatics when you are ready to make the transition. And if it becomes too much excitement for you to handle, there is always the option of using the Panic feature, that will instantly return the RC to level flight.
Product Specifications
Manufacturer: E-flite
Name: E-Flite Apprentice S 15e RTF
Color: White
Dimensions: 41.5 × 19×8
Weight: 9 Pounds
Flying Weight: 1390g
Material: Z-foam
Recommended Age:14 Years and up.
Pros
- It features a quiet brushless power system
- Apprentice S can be turned into a floatplane
- Constructed with sturdy and reliable Z-foam
Cons
- Fuselage is quite weak
- It is quite big and requires quite some space to fly
- Turning radius is quite large (because of its size)
Hobbyzone Sports Cub S RTF (Outdoor Finest Plane)
Even though it is a product of one of the first-class RC plane manufacturing brands, something about the Sports Cub S makes it come off as slightly unassuming. It features rank as significant enough to discuss, but not enough to impress too outrageously.
But the polystyrene frame of the Sports Cub S, as well as the integrated SAFE stabilization technology makes it quite ideal for beginner pilots, regardless of its being a simpleton of sorts. So even though it doesn’t necessarily attain high speeds, it is a blast to fly because of its small and lightweight frame combined with the durability prospects.
Product Specifications
Manufacturer: Hobby Zone
Name: Hobbyzone Sports Cub S RTF
Color: White & Blue
Dimensions: 58.2 × 14.5×10.2
Weight: 9.9 Pounds
Flying Weight: 57g
Material: Foam
Recommended Age: 14 Years and up.
Between the cub’s durability and agility – it is quite easy to fall in love with. However, we would have done better if would entertain us for longer than short four minutes per charge.
Pros
- Flexible
- Durable and beginner friendly
- Portable
Cons
- Batteries only last four short minutes.
Wltoys F959 Sky-King (Experienced Pilots Must Have)
The Sky-king lives up to its name by being a strong, impact resistant that is sturdy and reliable, offering remarkable flying experience.
The ability to fine-tune the controls of this plane is perhaps its best perk, and there is absolutely no doubt that beginners will fly the plane with ease. It will survive a few crashes unscathed, and its highly durable, crash resistant exterior will take impact in real measure with very little consequence.
Best of all, its wings detach when there is a need for it, making it suitable for beginners. But the real trip of the F959 is the fact that it comes with LED lights. It is a pure joy to fly at night, and just a little bit short of magical. If you like flying at night, you may also like driving an amazing R/C truck during your flying.
Product Specifications
Manufacturer: Wltoys
Name: Wltoys F959 Sky-King
Color: White & Red/Blue
Dimensions: 22.6 × 10.4×5.5
Weight: 2.3 Pounds
Recommended Age: 14 Years and up.
Pros
- Perfect for loops
- Maintains flight level effortlessly
- Super sturdy and stable
- Quite large in diameter
Cons
- Lack of aileron control
- Stock transmitter isn’t exactly impressive
- The camera does not have a wide field of view.
Where To Buy RC Planes
Without mincing words, if you walk into buying an RC aircraft blind, you are likely to be eaten alive so read up my other posts at RC Rank. The radio control marketplace is highly competitive these days – If you have an independent local hobby shop, you might consider trying to show your support where you can. Not only would it help the local business, but it would also give you a significantly good chance at buying something great because you might have the opportunity to test run the planes and have a bit of fun while you get first-hand counseling from the retailer. On the other hand, if buying online is your only realistic option, then Amazon is as good a place to buy RC planes online as any. Most of the top suppliers sell direct on the platform now, and there are quite a few good deals to be had.
However, to ensure that you don’t end up too disappointed, be rest assured that not all your expectations for your RC plane will be met, and when you do purchase, the most important factor to consider is the responsiveness of the plane. Once you have got a few hours and days under your belt, then you can move on to bigger and better things with the abundant experience that you have accumulated.
Well?
There you have it – 10 of the best RC planes you will find for sale anywhere. Remote control air planes will thoroughly entertain you and your family and will go a step further to help in developing your senses, muscles, and elements such as hand-eye coordination.
Ultimately, R/C planes (and all interactive toys) have a particular feature about them that ensure that they do not entertain you in isolation. So you are bound to become the center of attention when flying an R/C plane, and this is how they manage to bring people together.
Finally; going in, strive to be unswayed by smooth sales-man tactics – all you need to find the right RC plane, is to remember to keep an eye out for reliable and durable material, shop according to your flying expertise, but most importantly – remember that you only get what you pay for.
