At the moment, we’re reviewing the NewBeeDrone VRDrone RTF (Prepared-to-Fly) Equipment, an inexpensive FPV drone bundle designed for full newcomers. Priced at simply $159.99, this package consists of all the things it’s essential to get began in FPV, proper out of the field. There’s no want for programming or meeting, making it superb for anybody who desires to leap straight into the world of FPV flying. On this assessment, I’ll information you thru every element, share my expertise, and spotlight its strengths and limitations.
The place to Purchase
You should purchase the NewBeeDrone VRDrone RTF Equipment from:
The NewBeeDrone VRDrone package comes with the next equipment:
- The Drone
- FPV Goggles
- Radio Controller
- 4 Batteries
- Battery Charger
- USB-C Cable for Charging
- Additional Propellers and Prop Removing Software
FPV Goggles: Intelligent Modular Design
The spotlight of this RTF package is the modern modular design of the FPV goggles.
These field goggles serve a number of capabilities—not solely do they act as your FPV viewing machine, however additionally they double as a storage field for the drone, batteries, and charger! The display is detachable and can be utilized as a standalone monitor, which can be utilized by spectators.
The goggle and the display are held collectively by robust magnets. When separated, it reveals a battery tray that shops the drone and spare batteries, which additionally capabilities as a charger by way of the USB-C port. Nonetheless, I want there have been a screw mount on the monitor’s backside so it might be connected to a tripod, enhancing its versatility.
The goggles include a DVR characteristic, permitting you to report your flights onto the included 32GB microSD card. There’s additionally an AV output for connecting to a bigger display, providing flexibility. Even after upgrading to extra superior FPV goggles, this monitor can nonetheless be used for spectators or testing, making it a flexible addition.
Drone Design and Construct High quality
The drone itself is a “Tiny Whoop” model quadcopter. Whereas it could not boast top-of-the-line specs, its simplicity and decrease efficiency can really profit newcomers.
It makes use of brushed motors, which aren’t as highly effective or sturdy as brushless motors, however they supply longer flight occasions and a quieter flying expertise, making them superb for indoor use. The drone’s low efficiency additionally makes it simpler to regulate, which is nice for these simply beginning out. Nonetheless, brushed motors do put on out quicker than brushless motors and can ultimately have to be changed. However by then, you’ll seemingly have mastered the controls and prepared for a quicker and higher drone.
One factor to notice is that the drone lacks a USB port, which implies you possibly can’t configure it utilizing software program like Betaflight. This limits your potential to fine-tune the drone’s settings, however for newcomers, this isn’t essentially a draw back. It simplifies the flying expertise, letting you concentrate on studying to fly somewhat than getting slowed down in technical particulars. You possibly can nonetheless modify fundamental settings, like PIDs and charges, within the OSD menu, providing you with some flexibility.
The drone has a old style PH2.0 connector and makes use of a Nitro Nectar 1S 300mAh battery, which inserts snugly into the body. There are spare batteries included, which you’ll be able to cost utilizing the battery tray whereas flying to reduce ready time. After you’ve completed flying, you possibly can conveniently put all of them contained in the goggles. This considerate design ensures that each one elements are neatly organized and guarded when not in use.
Radio Controller: Simplicity at Its Greatest
The radio controller is small, light-weight, and simple to make use of. It options fundamental controls, together with switches to vary flight modes and arm the drone. Though it’s utilizing toy-grade gimbals, which aren’t as exact as higher-end counterparts, it will get the job performed, particularly for newcomers.
The controller makes use of a proprietary RC protocol particular to NewBeeDrone, which implies it’s not appropriate with different receivers or drones available on the market. Nonetheless, for these simply beginning out, this isn’t a lot of a limitation. The shortage of advanced options implies that new pilots can concentrate on studying to fly with out being overwhelmed by too many choices.
Flight Efficiency and Battery Life
The VRDrone hovers at round 55-60% throttle, it feels noticeably slower than excessive efficiency tiny whoops such because the Hummingbird V3 I not too long ago reviewed. However being a docile and easy-to-control drone, is good for newcomers. Its slower tempo additionally reduces crash influence, enhancing sturdiness. Regardless of its calm demeanor, the drone can nonetheless carry out flips and rolls when wanted.
It affords three flight modes:
- Angle Mode: Retains the drone degree, making it the best mode for newcomers.
- Horizon Mode: Much like Angle Mode however permits flips and rolls.
- Air Mode: Probably the most superior mode, providing full handbook management much like Acro mode in additional superior drones.
One standout characteristic is how quiet the drone is, which is ideal for indoor flying. I used to be additionally impressed with the battery life, getting round 5 to six minutes of flight time. The drone means that you can fly till the battery reaches round 3.2V, offering loads of time to observe fundamental maneuvers.
Battery Charging and Upkeep Suggestions
The included charging tray costs as much as 4 batteries concurrently—merely plug them in, and also you’re good to go. The charging indicator lights flip from purple to inexperienced when the batteries are absolutely charged, making it straightforward to see at a look if you’re able to fly once more. The battery tray securely holds the batteries in place, stopping them from rattling round throughout transport.
Whereas the charging tray is handy to make use of, it lacks a storage cost operate, that means you’ll have to handle your battery ranges manually. It’s best to keep away from leaving them empty or absolutely charged for too lengthy, as this isn’t good for his or her lifespan and efficiency over time. It’s greatest to go away them at round 3.8V to keep up good battery well being you don’t plan to fly for a very long time – say greater than 2 weeks for example. You possibly can study extra about dealing with batteries on this information: https://oscarliang.com/lipo-battery-guide/
Earlier than takeoff, be sure the propellers are pressed down all the way in which. I misplaced fairly a number of of them in crashes as a result of the motor shafts are fairly skinny. Get some spare props in case you run out (get those with 0.8mm shaft): https://s.click on.aliexpress.com/e/_DkE5ofD
Setup for First Flight
Establishing the drone is simple. Insert the battery, plug it in, and the drone powers up silently. Maintain down the facility buttons on the radio and goggles for five seconds to show them on. And in case you don’t see video within the goggles, long-press the “Channel Search” button.
Earlier than every flight, be sure the drone is on a degree floor to permit the gyro and accelerometer to calibrate, making certain steady flight. To entry the OSD menu and modify settings, transfer the throttle to the middle, yaw left, then pitch up.
Ultimate Ideas: Is It Value It?
The NewBeeDrone VRDrone FPV Equipment is a stable entry level for these new to FPV flying. It’s a unbelievable choice for younger or first-time pilots who need to expertise FPV with out the complexity of superior software program like Betaflight. The shortage of configurability and the proprietary protocol might restrict your progress as a pilot, however for the worth level, it’s a good way to get began and decide if FPV is the passion for you. If you’d like a package that means that you can play with Betaflight, try the BetaFPV Cetus X: https://oscarliang.com/betafpv-cetus-x/
Whereas it doesn’t supply the excessive efficiency of extra superior FPV drones, it supplies a mild studying curve with its straightforward controls and sturdy design. The all-in-one nature of the package means you can begin flying nearly instantly, with minimal setup required.
Nonetheless, in case you’re on the lookout for a drone which you could develop with, you would possibly outgrow this package rapidly on account of its restricted configurability and efficiency. However for its unbeatable worth level, it’s a good way to expertise FPV flying and determine if it’s the passion for you.
