How to Choose the Right Radio for Your FPV Setup

When it comes to FPV, your radio isn’t just another piece of gear—it’s your lifeline. It’s what connects you to your drone, and getting the right one can make or break your flying experience. But with so many choices, from compact to full-size, it can be tough to know which radio will suit your needs best.

Here at Pyrodrone, we’ve simplified the selection process to help you find the perfect match for your flying style. Whether you're an FPV newbie or a seasoned pro, we’ve categorized the top radios we offer into handy sections to make the decision easier. Plus, we’ll dive into the different receiver protocols so you can understand what makes each one tick. Ready to find your perfect radio? Let’s get started!

Compact & Portable: Radiomaster Pocket

For those who value portability, the Radiomaster Pocket is a dream come true. It’s small, it’s light, and it doesn’t skimp on performance. Despite its compact size, the Pocket still packs serious punch, making it perfect for pilots who don’t want to lug around a bulky radio.

Pros:

• Easy to transport: Slips into your bag effortlessly for travel or quick field trips.
• Great for beginners or a backup radio: Affordable and straightforward to use.
• ELRS version: Embraces the modern FPV protocol standard.
• Upgradable: Take your Pocket radio to the next level with the AG01 Nano gimbals

Cons (compared to full-size radios):

• Fewer switches and controls: Limited customization options for complex setups.
• Smaller ergonomics: Might not feel as comfortable for prolonged use.

Ideal For:

Pilots looking for a compact, hassle-free option that still delivers solid performance—perfect for park flying or freestyle.

Gaming-Style Radios: TBS Tango 2 & Radiomaster Zorro

If you love the feeling of a video game controller in your hands, the TBS Tango 2 or Radiomaster Zorro might be your perfect match. These radios give you that familiar gamepad grip while packing in advanced FPV functionality.

TBS Tango 2:

• Crossfire built-in: Long-range ready right out of the box.
• Compact design: Gamepad feel with Crossfire’s solid range and penetration.
• Comfortable grip: Great for those used to gaming controllers.

Radiomaster Zorro:

• ELRS & 4in1: Pick the protocol that works best for you.
• Comfortable grip: Great for those used to gaming controllers.

Cons (compared to larger models):

• Smaller screen and fewer switches

Ideal For:

Pilots who prefer a comfortable, familiar feel without sacrificing range or performance. Perfect for racing, freestyle, or everyday flying.

In-Between Size: Radiomaster Boxer, Jumper and TBS Mambo.

Looking for something that’s not too small but not a full-size monster? The Radiomaster Boxer, TBS Mambo and Jumper Radios are the middle-ground heroes. These radios offer a balanced mix of portability and advanced features, giving you more flexibility than the compact models, but without the bulk of the professional-level radios.

Radiomaster Boxer:

• ELRS or 4-in-1 options: Pick the protocol that works best for you.
• Comfortable size: Still portable but with more room for customization.

Jumper Radios:

• Support for OpenTX/EdgeTX: Cutting-edge tech and endless customization.
• Great value: Packed with features for the price point.

TBS Mambo:

• Comfortable size: Still portable but with more room for customization.
• Crossfire built-in: Long-range ready right out of the box.

Cons (compared to full-size radios):

• Not as many physical controls: Fewer switches and dials compared to top-tier models.
• Less ergonomic for extended sessions: While comfortable, it’s still not a full-size radio.

Ideal For:

Beginner to pro pilots who want versatility and don’t need all the bells and whistles of a pro setup. It’s the perfect “just right” option.

Full-Size: Radiomaster TX16S (Pyrodrone Edition)

If you’re serious about FPV and want the most control over your setup, the Radiomaster TX16S is where it’s at—especially the Pyrodrone Edition. This radio offers all the customization you’ll ever need with an incredible range of features.

Pros:

• Full-size, professional design: Tons of switches, sliders, and buttons for advanced setups.
• Custom Pyrodrone Edition: A slick, unique version that looks as good as it performs, Equipped with AG01 gimbals (Includes 2S Li-Ion Battery)
• Support for OpenTX/EdgeTX: Cutting-edge tech and endless customization.
• Available in ELRS and 4in1 protocols

Cons (compared to smaller models):

• Size and weight: Not as portable as compact or gaming-style radios.
• Higher price: You’re getting more features, but comes with a bump in the cost.

Ideal For:

Advanced pilots who need full control over every aspect of their flight. Whether you’re into long-range, freestyle, or cinematic flying, this is the radio for you.

Choosing the Right Protocol: 4-in-1, ELRS, or TBS Crossfire?

Now that you’ve got the radios sorted, it’s time to choose the right protocol. Each protocol has its strengths and is suited to different types of flying. Here’s a breakdown of the top three options to help you decide which one is right for you.

4-in-1 Module: The All-Rounder

A 4-in-1 module gives you the flexibility to fly almost any protocol—whether it’s old-school DSMX, FlySky, or others. It’s a fantastic choice if you have drones or airplanes with different receivers, allowing you to control them all from one radio.

• Pros: Universal compatibility for a wide variety of receivers.
• Cons: Not as optimized for long range or ultra-low latency compared to ELRS or Crossfire.

ELRS (ExpressLRS): The Modern FPV Standard

ExpressLRS is quickly becoming the go-to protocol in the FPV world. It’s open-source, meaning you can get receivers from various manufacturers, and it’s optimized for both low latency and long range.

• Pros: Ultra-low latency and incredible range, with affordable and widely available receivers. The open-source nature allows rapid updates and compatibility across brands.
• Cons (compared to Crossfire): While ELRS offers excellent performance, Crossfire still has the edge for pilots who prioritize long-distance flights.

TBS Crossfire: The Long-Range Expert

TBS Crossfire is still the king of long-range FPV. It’s known for reliable performance, especially in difficult environments with lots of interference. If you’re flying long distances, Crossfire is a proven solution.

• Pros: Incredible range and reliability, excellent penetration through obstacles.
• Cons (compared to ELRS): Crossfire receivers can be pricier, and ELRS is catching up fast in terms of range and latency for a lower price point.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision

Whether you’re looking for portability, a gaming-style grip, or full professional control, there’s a radio at Pyrodrone to fit your style. And when it comes to choosing a protocol, think about what matters most to you—flexibility, range, or ease of use. ELRS is becoming the new standard in FPV, but TBS Crossfire is still unbeatable for long-range reliability, and the 4-in-1 module offers unmatched versatility.

At Pyrodrone, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your setup. Feel free to explore our selection and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more guidance. Happy flying!