Top 10 Picks to Get You Flying
If you’re new to remote-control planes and want to start somewhere simple, reliable and fun, you’re in the right place.
Choosing the right first model makes a big difference—because you’ll spend more time flying and less time fighting your plane. Below are ten beginner-friendly RC plane picks from HobbyKing, followed by tips to help you choose the right one.
Table of Contents
What to look for in a great beginner RC plane
Before we dive into the top models, here are key features that make a plane “beginner-friendly”:
- Stable flight characteristics — slow to moderate speed, forgiving controls.
- Pre-installed electronics or minimal assembly (so you don’t get bogged down by wiring).
- Durable construction (foam, EPO etc) that can handle a few rough landings.
- Clear parts and upgrade path so you can grow as your skills improve.
Top 10 Beginner RC Planes
Here are ten excellent options (in no strict order), each suited for a beginner getting into the hobby:
- Durafly PNF MFX Racer 715/815mm EPO (Green) – With a small wingspan and plug-and-fly format, it’s perfect for backyard or park flying. For $144.99. click here!
- H‑King Crusader (ARF) 30E 1200mm – A slightly larger trainer with moderate wingspan that offers stability and a bit more presence in the air for those ready for a step up. For $139.99. Click here!
- Durafly SlowPoke 1200mm PNF (red) – an EPO foam model of the classic design. Adding to the easy flying design of the SlowPoke, Durafly has added some larger wheels to make it even easier to take off and land on a wide variety of fields. For $173.99. Click here!
- Avios (PNF) Grand Tundra 2 STOL Sports Plane EPO 1700mm (Green/Silver) – an impressive flight envelope with an amazing performance, and also a great-looking plane. For $369.00. Click here!
- Durafly (PNF) Rare Bear Reno Racer 680mm EPO (Gold/White) – a great-looking, extremely fast Rare Bear Reno Racer from Durafly is for you. It is supplied as a PNF model with quick assembly. For $135.99. Click here!
- H-King (PNF) Mini L-39 Albatros 64mm 4S EDF Jet EPO (635mm) – The 64mm 4S setup gives the L-39 jet an incredible performance, with a brilliant turn of speed and fantastic vertical climb-outs. For $129.99. Click here!
- VolantexRC Mustang P51 (RTF) 4CH EPP 317mm Warbird – A great beginner plane. The gyro assistance help beginners learn to fly easy. For $131.11. Click here!
- Dancing Wings Hobby (ARF) Shining 3D Sport Airplane EPP – The Dancing Wings Hobby Shining is a large lightweight profile-style foam kit that is quick and simple to build. For $94.99. Click here!
- Durafly (PNF) T-28 Trojan Naval Aviation Centennial Edition 1100mm – an impressive RC plane to fly and even has the ability to be upgraded for the extreme challenge of FPV flying. For $229.99. Click here!
- Volantex (RTF) EPP 4CH Messerschmitt Bf 109 (400mm) – the perfect RTF small warbird that comes complete with a transmitter, receiver, and built-in Xpilot stabilization system. For $108.23. Click here!
How to choose the right one for you
- If you fly in your backyard or small field, go with something compact like the Micro Tundra or Sky Trainer.
- If you have a larger field and plan to grow, pick a trainer with a 1.0 m+ wingspan such as the Crusader or Mustang.
- If you prefer minimal setup, choose an RTF model (ready-to-fly).
- Focus first on a plane with good stability, then later upgrade to faster/sportier models.
Final thoughts
Starting with the right RC plane means less frustration and more fun from day one. HobbyKing offers many models that cater specifically to beginners. By choosing one of the ten models above and dedicating time to practice, you’ll be well on your way to an exciting RC flying hobby.
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