New to RC? Start here.
Everything we wish someone had told us before our first flight or first bash session.
What the letters mean
- RTF (Ready to Fly): everything in the box, including the radio. Best for a first plane.
- RTR (Ready to Run): the car and boat version of RTF. Some include a battery and charger, many don't.
- BNF (Bind-N-Fly): plane is built with a receiver. You bind it to your own Spektrum radio.
- PNP (Plug-N-Play): add your own receiver, battery and radio.
Your first airplane
Pick a high-wing trainer with a stability system (like SAFE). It can level itself if you get in trouble and has beginner modes that limit how far it can bank. Fly on a calm morning in a big open field.
Your first car or truck
A 1/10 scale 4x4 is the sweet spot: tough, easy to work on and parts are easy to find. Brushless is faster; brushed is cheaper and a little gentler to learn on.
Your first boat
Look for a self-righting boat so a flip doesn't end your day. Always run with a retrieval plan, like a friend with a kayak or a long line.
Batteries and chargers
Most models run on LiPo batteries. Charge them with a proper balance charger, never leave them charging unattended, and store them at storage charge. A smart charger and smart battery combo takes most of the guesswork out of it.
Still stuck?
Ask us. We'd rather help you pick the right first model than sell you the wrong one.