Do you know the difference between RC helicopters and drones? If not, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Many people don’t understand the difference, but it’s an important distinction to make. This blog post will discuss the critical differences between RC helicopters and drones. By understanding the differences, you can choose the right type of aircraft for your needs. So, let’s get started!
What is an RC Helicopter?
An RC helicopter is a type of aircraft controlled by remote control. It typically has two or more rotors that allow it to lift off the ground and fly. RC helicopters are often used for recreation, but they can also be used for commercial purposes.
What are the Pros and Cons of Using an RC Helicopter?
RC helicopters are a lot of fun to fly and can be used for various purposes. However, there are some downsides to using RC helicopters. First, they can be challenging to control and require a lot of practice to master. Second, they can be expensive to buy and operate. Finally, they can be dangerous if not flown correctly.
What is a Drone?
A drone is another type of aircraft controlled by remote control. Unlike RC helicopters, drones typically have just one rotor and are much smaller in size. Drones are often used for commercial purposes, such as aerial photography or delivery services, but can also be used for recreational purposes.
What are the Pros and Cons of Using a Drone?
Drones are a lot of fun to fly, and they can be used for a variety of purposes. However, there are some downsides to using drones. First, they can be challenging to control and require a lot of practice to master. Second, they can be expensive to buy and operate. Finally, they can be dangerous if not flown correctly.
Difference Between RC Helicopters and Drones
RC helicopters are larger and have two or more rotors to lift off the ground and fly. Drones are much smaller in size and typically have just one rotor. And while there are a ton of minute differences between the two, they can be summarized into some major points:
- Control: RC helicopters are controlled by remote control, while drones are typically controlled through an app on your smartphone.
- Size: RC helicopters are much larger than drones, often measuring several feet in length. Drones are much smaller and typically measure just a few inches across.
- Number of Rotors: RC helicopters have two or more rotors that allow them to lift off the ground and fly, while drones typically have just one rotor.
- Purpose: RC helicopters can be used for recreational and commercial purposes, whereas drones are strictly for commercial use.
- Speed: RC helicopters can reach speeds of up to 100 mph, while drones top out at around 40 mph.
- Range: The maximum range for an RC helicopter is about 1000 feet, while the maximum range for a drone is about 3000 feet.
- Camera: RC helicopters typically do not have a built-in camera, whereas drones often come with a high-definition camera mounted on them.
- Price: RC helicopters can cost anywhere from $50 to $2000, while drones typically cost between $500 and $5000.
- Flight Time: RC helicopters can fly for up to 15 minutes on a single charge, while drones can fly for up to 30 minutes on a single charge.
- Wind Resistance: RC helicopters are much more wind resistant than drones and can still fly in winds up to 20 mph. Drones cannot fly in winds greater than 12 mph.
- Designs: RC helicopters come in various designs, such as standard helicopters, quadcopters, and coaxial helicopters. Drones typically only come in one design.
- Easiness of flying: RC helicopters are much more difficult to fly than drones and require a lot of practice to master. Drones are much easier to fly, even for beginners.
- Physical shape: RC helicopters are typically cylindrical in shape, while drones are typically rectangular in shape.
- Power: RC helicopters are powered by a battery, while an electric motor typically powers drones.
- Field of use: RC helicopters can be used for various purposes, such as flying and racing. Drones are limited to commercial use only.
In general, RC helicopters are controlled by remote control, while drones are typically managed through an app on your smartphone. This gives you much more control over the aircraft when flying. Drones can be difficult to control and require a lot of practice to master. RC helicopters are much larger than drones, often measuring several feet in length. Drones are much smaller and typically measure just a few inches across. This makes them more difficult to see and avoid obstacles when flying.
So, which one should you choose?
If you’re looking for a recreational aircraft that is easy to fly and can be used for various purposes, then an RC helicopter is the way to go. If you’re looking for a commercial aircraft that can be used for photography or delivery services, then a drone is the better option. Whichever one you choose, remember to always fly safely and responsibly!