The Greatest FPV Drone Simulators: Full Spherical-Up

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Probably the most difficult elements of moving into FPV drones is studying the right way to fly. FPV drone simulators let you follow and develop your abilities with out risking harm to your drone, even when the climate isn’t cooperating. On this article, we’ll discover all of the obtainable FPV drone simulators and allow you to select the most effective sim on your wants.

In case you’re new to FPV, try our complete information to FPV drones to get began: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-drone-guide/

What’s an FPV Drone Simulator?

Think about with the ability to fly an FPV drone in a vividly sensible digital world—that’s precisely what FPV drone simulators provide. These simulators aren’t simply video games; they’re subtle coaching instruments designed to intently mimic the expertise of flying an actual FPV drone. Whereas no simulator can completely replicate the joys of real-world flying, they arrive extremely shut, permitting pilots to sharpen their abilities and grasp freestyle tips in a secure, crash-proof setting—whatever the climate—24/7.

Solely in simulators are you able to fearlessly try daring tips that really feel practically unimaginable in the actual world! 😀

A Checklist of FPV Simulators

For Computer systems:

What’s Steam?

Steam is a digital platform the place you should purchase, play, and replace video games. It simplifies recreation administration and ensures your software program stays up to date with the newest patches. Moreover, Steam provides a user-friendly return coverage, permitting refunds for video games performed for lower than two hours—superb for testing a simulator to see if it meets your expectations or runs easily in your laptop. Most FPV drone simulators can be found on Steam.

For Smartphones:

What You Must Fly FPV Simulators

Earlier than selecting an FPV simulator, you’ll first want a correct radio controller.

Professional Tip: I don’t advocate utilizing gaming consoles (similar to PlayStation or Xbox) or a keyboard, as abilities gained from these strategies not often translate successfully to flying an actual FPV drone utilizing an precise radio controller.

Utilizing a correct radio controller helps construct muscle reminiscence and maximizes the advantages of your simulator coaching. Plus, you’ll proceed utilizing the identical radio when flying precise drones, making it a worthwhile long-term funding.

Searching for radio suggestions? I’ve bought you lined: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/#Radio-Suggestions

All radios beneficial in my information are plug-and-play suitable with the simulators mentioned on this web page—simply join through USB, and your radio will seem as a gaming joystick in your laptop. It’s that easy.

In case you have a DJI Distant Controller (similar to RC2 or RC3), it’s additionally completely tremendous for simulators – simply join it utilizing a USB cable.

VelociDrone

For these in search of probably the most genuine FPV drone flying expertise, VelociDrone stands out. Launched in 2016, it’s one of many oldest and most established simulators obtainable. Though its graphics are comparatively easy and considerably cartoonish, this implies it doesn’t require a high-end gaming PC to run easily.

Priced at $19.99, VelociDrone excels as a racing-focused simulator and boasts a robust racing group. It helps map enhancing, provides a whole bunch of user-created racing tracks, and encompasses a implausible “Nemesis” mode, which pits you in opposition to different gamers’ finest lap occasions. In case your objective is to enhance your racing abilities with extremely sensible physics, VelociDrone is an unparalleled selection.

Whereas VelociDrone can also be appropriate for freestyle follow, it doesn’t fairly match the leisure worth provided by freestyle-focused simulators that function higher graphics and extra assorted environments.

Drone choice and customization in VelociDrone are considerably restricted, and extra drone fashions require buying DLC packs (such because the Freestyle and Micro Drone DLCs).

Word that VelociDrone isn’t obtainable on Steam. For non-gamers, this could be a profit, as you gained’t must cope with the gaming platform. Nonetheless, for normal Steam customers, it would really feel inconvenient, as managing updates for the simulator can require extra effort.

Liftoff

Launched in 2018, Liftoff stays among the finest all-around FPV simulators, providing wealthy content material and a big on-line group. Its up to date coaching program supplies a wonderful structured studying path for full learners.

Priced at $19.99, Liftoff strikes a steadiness between ease of use and a complete function set. With a user-friendly interface, sensible physics, and various gameplay choices, it appeals to a large viewers, from learners to skilled pilots.

Whereas its graphics may fall barely brief in comparison with some newer simulators, Liftoff stays an exceptionally mature FPV sim, boasting a formidable quantity of content material. No different simulator matches its intensive assortment of a whole bunch of drone fashions and 1000’s of tracks created by each builders and the group.

Liftoff was additionally the primary simulator to introduce a “elements system,” permitting you to customise your drone by swapping parts similar to in actual life. Moreover, it’s one of many few simulators that simulate propeller harm (this function can be disabled), selling exact flying and elevated consciousness of obstacles for a extra genuine flying expertise.

Listed below are a few of my flying in Liftoff a few years in the past.

The Drone Racing League Simulator (DRL)

Launched in 2017, the Drone Racing League Simulator (DRL) supplies an distinctive start line for anybody new to FPV flying, due to its complete coaching program and interesting gameplay.

Priced at simply $10, DRL provides spectacular worth, boasting over 20 various maps, intensive multiplayer choices, and a number of recreation modes. It’s a wonderful selection for each learners and seasoned pilots.

The standout function is its structured coaching program, which fastidiously guides you from fundamental flying methods to superior maneuvers, making it superb for learners.

Though its graphics are barely dated as a result of its launch in 2017, DRL’s intensive content material makes it a extremely beneficial simulator. One other distinctive side is that DRL makes use of this simulator to host on-line tryout occasions—top-performing pilots can earn an opportunity to compete in real-life DRL occasions.

As a gamer, I discover DRL to be probably the most entertaining simulators. The maps are creatively designed and provide distinctive selection; for instance, one map seamlessly combines skyscrapers, deserted factories, and a shipyard, all inside a single setting.

Right here’s a video of me having enjoyable diving highrises and navigating its race observe:

DRL additionally provides aggressive racing options, similar to racing in opposition to “ghosts” (pre-recorded flights from different pilots at an identical ability stage). Nonetheless, as a racing-focused simulator, VelociDrone could also be extra forgiving relating to laptop {hardware} necessities.

TRYP FPV

Launched in 2022, TRYP FPV is arguably among the finest freestyle simulators obtainable, identified particularly for its unimaginable graphics.

As one of many newest FPV simulators, TRYP FPV impresses customers with its gorgeous visuals, expansive maps, and meticulous consideration to element. Priced at $14.99 on Steam, it provides a complete simulator expertise. Nonetheless, regardless of its superior graphics, some customers have reported poor optimization, resulting in low body charges or body drops, particularly throughout freestyle maneuvers, relying on the precise map or setting. Its demanding efficiency necessities might restrict accessibility for customers with out highly effective gaming PCs.

Sadly, the coaching program falls brief, probably making the training curve difficult for learners. However, for knowledgeable pilots, the simulator’s huge and various environments are a delight. It options shifting objects (similar to race vehicles and skiers) you’ll be able to observe along with your drone, serving to to reinforce your freestyle and cinematic flying abilities. Whereas the simulated quads really feel barely heavier than in actual life, the physics stays moderately correct, and drone parameters are adjustable to intently replicate real-world flight traits.

Total, TRYP FPV stands out as one among my favourite simulators as a result of its gorgeous graphics and wealthy freestyle/cinematic options. It’s significantly interesting to individuals with high-performance gaming PC searching for expansive and immersive flying experiences. With excessive graphics settings enabled, the simulator can often really feel astonishingly near flying in an actual setting.

Uncrashed

Launched in 2021, Uncrashed is a dream come true for knowledgeable freestyle pilots, due to its gorgeous graphics and expansive environments.

I’d place Uncrashed in the identical class as TRYP FPV, as these newer simulators set a excessive customary for visible high quality and clean flying efficiency. Though the physics really feel common—not fairly as sensible as another simulators—they’re definitely ok that will help you grasp flying FPV. Drone and setting settings may be personalized, however this may be overwhelming for learners.

With over 19 distinctive maps that includes participating actions like chasing vehicles, Uncrashed is right for freestyle pilots in search of selection. The simulator provides repeatedly up to date content material, Steam Workshop integration, and a very good multiplayer expertise. Nonetheless, the shortage of a structured newbie coaching program is a notable shortcoming, stopping it from turning into the definitive FPV simulator.

In my view, Uncrashed excels as a visually immersive and pleasurable freestyle simulator. The expansive playgrounds present infinite leisure, and flying by futuristic environments harking back to the flying-car scenes from “The Fifth Aspect” by no means will get outdated.

Selecting between Uncrashed and TRYP FPV may be difficult. Nonetheless, latest updates to Uncrashed—together with the addition of multiplayer mode and a map enhancing instrument—give it an edge over TRYP, which lacks these options.

FPV.SkyDive

FPV Skydive initially seems promising when it was launched in 2021, particularly as a totally free simulator providing freestyle, racing, and multiplayer modes. Nonetheless, its free choices are shortly overshadowed by paywalls blocking extra tracks, maps, and coaching classes. Whereas it runs easily and enjoys energetic multiplayer rooms, the drone physics really feel mediocre, detracting considerably from the general realism. Appropriate maybe for learners wanting a fundamental entry level, however not beneficial for those who’re seeking to progress significantly. In case you are keen to spend cash, different paid choices are extra full packages and extra value it in my view. With that mentioned you’ll be able to nonetheless obtain this sim and benefit from the free content material and get a style of FPV with out spending any cash.

Replace (Mar 2022): Orqa launched an Android/iOS model of this sim!

FPV Logic

FPV Logic is a comparatively new FPV simulator identified for its sensible physics just like VelociDrone, however lean extra in direction of freestyle flying. Though considerably barebones, it options glorious freestyle maps excellent for flowing by inventive gaps and contours. It features a fundamental race mode with AI opponents however lacks superior options like VelociDrone’s customized tracks or nemesis mode. Some pilots discover sustaining momentum difficult, making the physics often really feel uncommon. Though actively up to date, it feels restricted in comparison with TRYP, DRL, or Uncrashed, providing much less general worth.

Tiny Whoop Simulators

Liftoff: Micro Drones

When discussing Tiny Whoop simulators, you need to try Liftoff: Micro Drones. This unbiased, purpose-built simulator is designed particularly for the Tiny Whoop class by the identical individuals who made Liftoff.

The physics are fairly good, although if I’m being choosy, the whoops appear to hold barely extra momentum than in actual life—as in the event that they’re heavier. This makes them more durable to manage and more difficult to maneuver precisely by turns. The drone tends to “slide”, requiring extra stick changes and lowered velocity to navigate race gates easily.

Compared, Tiny Whoop GO feels extra forgiving, making it simpler for learners to deal with. Nonetheless, this forgiving nature may diminish the expertise for extra superior racers. In case you’re in search of a more difficult simulator to enhance your whoop piloting abilities, Liftoff: Micro Drones may be the higher selection.

The eye to element and creativity on this sim are spectacular. As an illustration, within the warehouse map, you’ll hear ambient seems like forklifts working and folks working, creating a very immersive flying expertise. The “Promenade Night time” map is full of interactive components—you’ll be able to pop balloons, dispense soda from merchandising machines, and even play music from the DJ’s laptop computer!

Tiny Whoop GO

In case you’re searching for a free Tiny Whoop simulator, Tiny Whoop GO was a implausible possibility. It felt moderately sensible, although barely simpler to fly than in actual life, which could disappoint pilots searching for extra of a problem.

Replace 2025: Sadly, Tiny Whoop GO is not free, and its present value is sort of thrice increased than Liftoff: Micro Drones, making it onerous to advocate.

Different FPV Simulators

AI Drone Simulator

At $15, AI Drone Simulator guarantees a contemporary FPV simulator expertise however falls brief in delivering a standout function set. Whereas it provides high-detail maps and the choice for community-made drone downloads, its lack of options and recreation modes in comparison with different standard sims place it in a difficult place. For these prioritizing group content material and drone customization, AI Drone Simulator provides some enchantment, however general, it struggles to justify its place in a aggressive market.

FlowState

Flowstate is on the market on Steam, and it’s free. It’s tailor-made extra in direction of racing, and missing a variety of options on different paid sims.

FPV FreeRider (Unique and Recharged)

FPV Freerider ($6) and its upgraded model, FPV Freerider Recharged ($10), had been sort of outdated. Regardless of having good drone physics and an honest racetrack generator/editor, the small maps, lack of customization, and poor graphics undermine their worth. FPV Freerider Recharged provides improved graphics however strips away worthwhile options like the automated observe generator, failing to justify its increased price ticket.

CurryKitten FPV Simulator

At simply $2, CurryKitten FPV Simulator, created by an FPV YouTuber, deserves respect for its solo-developed roots. Sadly, it’s marred by outdated graphics, restricted maps, lack of drone customization choices, and common physics. The interface is difficult to navigate, and with no updates since 2022, it sadly doesn’t maintain up at present within the aggressive market.

DCL – The Sport

At $30, Drone Champions League (DCL) Simulator emphasizes gamification, together with incomes rewards and customizing drones. Sadly, unrealistic physics and lack of selection restrict its worth strictly to informal gaming quite than severe simulation or coaching.

Connecting Radio To FPV Simulator

Connecting your FPV radio/controller to a simulator is easy, that is the right way to do it with any EdgeTX radios:

1. Energy in your radio controller.
2. Join it to your laptop utilizing a USB-C cable (some radios has one USB port for each knowledge and charging, however some has two ports, one for charging and the opposite for knowledge; make certain to connect with the info USB port):
3. Choose the USB Joystick possibility in your radio as soon as linked.
4. Launch your FPV simulator
5. Navigate to the simulator’s Choices → Controller settings.
6. Calibrate your radio/controller: Comply with the on-screen prompts to assign throttle, yaw, pitch, and roll inputs.
7. Verify every enter is appropriately assigned by shifting the sticks as instructed.
8. End calibration and return to the principle menu.
9. You’re now able to fly!

Different Methods to Join Your Radio to the Simulator

Whereas utilizing a USB cable is probably the most simple methodology, there are alternative routes to attach your radio controller to the simulator. You need to use ExpressLRS Bluetooth or even a receiver dongle (similar to through a flight controller or utilizing merchandise just like the Squid Stick). These wi-fi strategies provide comfort, however bear in mind they might introduce extra latency as a result of additional processing, which might make simulators really feel barely much less sensible.

One other advantage of utilizing a USB cable is that your radio’s battery will not often run out when you’re utilizing the simulator, because the USB connection concurrently fees the battery.

Laptop Requirement

How effectively FPV simulators run largely is dependent upon your laptop’s GPU, CPU, and the chosen video decision and graphics settings. In case you have an older or slower laptop, some simulators could not carry out optimally. Decreasing your graphics settings can usually assist older computer systems deal with simulators extra easily.

When your laptop struggles to render the simulator, you may expertise stuttering, body drops, and elevated latency, making the flying expertise really feel unrealistic. When Liftoff first got here out, I initially complained it felt floaty and unresponsive. It turned out my PC was just too sluggish. After decreasing all graphics settings to the minimal, these points had been enormously improved. Later, once I upgraded to a sooner gaming PC, I might run Liftoff easily even at excessive graphics settings.

In case you’re uncertain how effectively your simulator is operating, monitor the body fee. Intention for body charges equal to or larger than your monitor’s refresh fee. In case your body fee falls under this, take into account decreasing your graphics settings.

My gaming PC handles all these simulators fairly effectively even at excessive picture high quality settings. Nonetheless, I desire utilizing low-to-mid settings to realize increased FPS, making the simulation really feel nearer to actual life. Listed below are my PC specs (Amazon affiliate hyperlinks):

I additionally use my MacBook Professional for FPV simulators when touring. It’s been implausible for enhancing FPV movies and training in sims whereas I’m away—I can’t advocate it extremely sufficient. I clarify why I desire the M1 Professional over the M2 on this article: https://oscarliang.com/macbook-air-m2-pro-m1/. Often, you’ll find reductions of as much as 10% on Amazon. I saved practically $200 on my 14″ Professional M1. Test costs on Amazon (affiliate hyperlink): https://amzn.to/3CgxOTr

Greatest FPV Sim for MacOS

Regardless of my preliminary concern that my non-gaming Macbook Professional (M1 14inch) would battle, I used to be pleasantly shocked to seek out that I didn’t face any points with the simulators I examined. It’s additionally suitable with frequent radios similar to Radiomaster and Jumper.

Most sims ought to run easily on the newest Macs. Nonetheless, for many who wish to play secure, Velocidrone is a superb selection. It has one of many lowest CPU and GPU necessities. Regardless of an absence of high-end graphics, it doesn’t skimp on options, making certain a complete coaching expertise.

For these seeking to discover different simulators on Steam, be at liberty to provide them a go. Steam’s refund coverage is there in the event that they don’t carry out effectively in your machine.

Does Physics Matter?

Sure and no.

The physics of a drone simulator are extremely subjective. Whereas simulators proceed to enhance and intently mimic real-life flying, they might by no means really feel precisely the identical as flying an precise drone.

In the end, the aim of a simulator is that will help you study the basics of flying and construct muscle reminiscence. Select a simulator that feels sensible sufficient for you, has graphics you get pleasure from, and runs easily in your laptop.

Focus your time on constant follow quite than worrying an excessive amount of about simulator physics.

What to Apply in Simulators

Preserve correct posture and ergonomics whereas utilizing simulators. In case you sometimes stand whereas flying in actual life, do the identical throughout simulator follow. Equally, for those who usually use a neck strap, use one throughout your simulation classes.

In case you’re an entire newbie, choose an open map with minimal obstacles to begin.

For learners, right here’s what I might advocate to follow:

• Arming and Disarming: Apply arming and disarming your drone repeatedly. Whenever you crash, follow disarming the drone earlier than hitting the reset button—it is a vital behavior to kind.
• Fundamental Flight Actions: Apply taking off, flying in a straight line, making left and proper turns, and flying in circles.
• Touchdown: Apply managed touchdown by hovering near the bottom earlier than disarming, minimizing affect. Don’t underestimate this easy train, you’d be shocked how many individuals can carry out complicated acrobatic strikes however battle to land with out crashing 🙂
• Precision Maneuvering: Apply flying by gaps to develop precision and management.
• Freestyle Maneuvers: Apply exact rolls, flips, and split-S maneuvers – these are the basic of freestyle strikes.

Simulator Tuning and Settings

After years of flying FPV simulators, I can confidently say that the default settings in most FPV sims sometimes aren’t optimum. Adjusting the settings can normally make your digital drone really feel nearer to an actual one.

Along with settings generally discovered on actual quads—similar to PIDs and charges—you may as well fine-tune the simulator’s physics. Your objective is to match the quad efficiency in simulator to your real-world quad as intently as potential. In case you’re simply beginning out, you may not but have a transparent thought of how an actual drone ought to deal with. On this case, sticking to the default settings or copying another person’s confirmed settings is advisable. One vital setting to customise early is your charges, which management the sensitivity of your quadcopter. Try this information to study extra about charges: https://oscarliang.com/charges/

I sometimes set my graphics to the bottom potential settings and disable any pointless visible results. This ensures the very best potential body fee, minimizing latency and maximizing smoothness for probably the most sensible flying expertise.

Ought to I Put on FPV Goggles for Simulators?

It’s sort of pointless, however you’ll be able to strive in order for you.

FPV Goggles with HDMI enter, similar to Skyzone SKY04X Professional, Walksnail Goggles X or HDZero Goggles, can connect with your laptop and function an exterior monitor, permitting you to follow FPV flying with goggles. This may assist learners change into accustomed to flying with goggles from the beginning.

Nonetheless, I personally discover utilizing an ordinary monitor simpler on the eyes, particularly throughout lengthy follow classes. Moreover, gaming displays sometimes provide superior body charges and picture high quality in comparison with FPV goggles, offering a extra comfy and sensible expertise general.

Line of Sight Flying Simulators

Many FPV pilots can fly effectively utilizing goggles however battle with line-of-sight (LOS) flying. Whereas training LOS in a simulator may assist considerably, it’s sometimes not the simplest strategy.

Firstly, simulators lack the depth notion you’d usually expertise in actual life, making it troublesome to precisely choose your drone’s distance on display. Moreover, orientation may be difficult to discern clearly in simulators as a result of decrease display resolutions.

In case you’re fascinated by training LOS in simulators anyway, listed below are a number of choices:

• Liftoff: Press B to change to LOS mode.
• VelociDrone: Scroll the mouse wheel to zoom into LOS mode.
• FPV Freerider: Provides a devoted LOS mode.

Devoted Radio Profile for Simulators

When utilizing simulators, arrange a devoted radio profile in your transmitter. Merely duplicate your current profile for FPV drone, and disable each inside and exterior RF modules within the Mannequin setup. This helps preserve your transmitter’s battery throughout simulator classes.

Points Connecting Radio to macOS?

In case you’ve linked your radio controller to a Mac and nothing occurs—no immediate on the radio to pick joystick mode and no detection by the pc—it may be a cable subject. I encountered this drawback when utilizing a USB-C to USB-C cable. The identical cable labored tremendous on a Home windows laptop however didn’t work with my MacBook.

The answer is to make use of a USB Sort-A to USB-C cable. In case your Mac doesn’t have a USB Sort-A port, merely use a USB-C male to USB-A feminine adapter. I’ve examined this and it really works completely.

You’ll find an appropriate adapter right here: https://amzn.to/470TcYI

Can I Use an Android Cellphone or iPhone for Simulators?

In case you’re seeking to follow FPV flying on a smartphone, utilizing an Android machine is usually extra simple. You’ll be able to join your radio on to an Android telephone utilizing an OTG USB cable.

Nonetheless, connecting through USB isn’t potential on an iPhone as a result of iOS restrictions. When you can management the drone utilizing the touchscreen, this methodology doesn’t successfully translate to real-world flying abilities. Alternatively, you’ll be able to join a radio to your iPhone wirelessly through WiFi, offered your radio has an ExpressLRS transmitter module. Merely allow WiFi in your ExpressLRS module, be a part of that WiFi community out of your iPhone, and configure the joystick inside suitable simulators (such because the VelociDrone iOS model). Have in mind, although, that WiFi connections could introduce increased latency in comparison with a direct USB connection on Android.

Closing Ideas – My Suggestions

Listed below are my prime FPV simulator suggestions:

FPV drone simulators can’t absolutely exchange real-world flying, however they’re extraordinarily useful for bettering your flying abilities with out risking harm to your drone, or when out of doors flying isn’t potential. For learners, simulators provide a useful alternative to construct muscle reminiscence and study new abilities. As you advance, real-world follow turns into more and more vital. Whereas some simulators emphasize graphics and visible realism, others prioritize correct flight physics and broad {hardware} compatibility. In the end, select a simulator that aligns finest along with your particular wants and preferences. Completely satisfied flying!

Edit Historical past

• 2015 – Article created
• 2017 – Up to date opinions
• 2018 – Up to date opinions
• 2019 – Up to date opinions, added “Carrying FPV Goggles in Sims”
• 2021 – Shortened URL, up to date my suggestions
• 2022 – Up to date checklist with new simulators
• 2023 – Up to date checklist with new sims
• 2024 – Up to date my opinions and proposals
• 2025 – Up to date suggestions and opinions