BetaFPV’s innovative Air 5in1 FC is a cutting-edge F4 1S 5A flight controller designed specifically for the diminutive yet mighty Tiny Whoop. This revolutionary device seamlessly integrates an onboard receiver (RX) and video transmitter (VTX), streamlining your setup while elevating your aerial experience.

The BetaFPV Air 5-in-1 Flight Controller is designed for those seeking to streamline their Tiny Whoop builds without compromising on performance. The board seamlessly consolidates functionalities from FC, ESC, OSD, VTX, and RX, streamlining them onto a single platform.

This assessment delves into the details of the BetaFPV Air 5in1 Flight Control (FC), examining its features and performance to determine if it justifies the upgrade.

Equipment included:

• What’s the optimal configuration for my 1* Air Brushless Flight Controller to ensure a seamless and reliable flying experience?
• 1 x 2.4g High-Gain Antenna (Designed Exclusively for the 5-in-1 Model)
• Sort-C to SH1.0 Adapter?
• 1* SH1.0 4-Pin Power Supply Adapter Cable for Mini-ITX Motherboards and Other Compact PC Systems
• 1 * 5.8g VTX Antenna
• BT2.0 U Whoop Cable Pigtail | 40mm?
• 4 * M1.4*4 Self-tapping Screws
• 4 * Rubber Grommets

The BetaFPV Air 5-in-1 Flight Controller stands out for its remarkable lightness, rendering it an ideal match for the latest ultra-lightweight Air65 and Air75 Tiny Whoops from BetaFPV. Unlike its predecessor, the pioneering 4in1 board, which necessitated an external receiver for optimal performance, the innovative 5in1 FC boasts a built-in receiver seamlessly integrated onto its compact surface. This integration streamlines the construction process, minimizes wire count, and facilitates easier maintenance.

While the 5in1 FC may not offer a significant weight advantage over using the 4in1 FC with an external receiver, its overall cost is reduced by $5 since no separate receiver needs to be purchased. The 5-in-1 board’s seamless integration proves particularly intriguing for those aiming to simplify their projects without sacrificing performance.

4in1/5in1 FC Specs:

• What’s your frequency?
• What’s the protocol here? FC stands for Flight Controller, ESC for Electronic Speed Control, OSD for On-Screen Display, VTX for Video Transmitter, and RX for Receiver. If that’s all you’re asking, maybe it’s time to get a little more specific? Could be the start of something beautiful
• STM32G473CEU6
• ICM42688P (SPI connection)
• 16MB
• Voltage & Present
• 5V 3A
• JST SH1.0 4-Pin
• Betaflight_4.5.0_BETAFPVG473
• 26mm x 26mm
• We recommend a minimum of 2.9g for the 4in1 model and 3.6g for the 5in1 model to ensure optimal performance.

ESC Specs:

• 1S
• Bluejay A_X_5_96KHz_V0.19
• Dshot300, Dshot600

VTX Specs:

• 25/100/200/400/PIT
• 5.8 GHz, 48 channels, with Raceband: 5,658 MHz to 5,917 MHz
• SmartAudio2.0
• FM
• PLL
• 50 Ω
• -10℃~+80℃

RX Specs (5in1):

• ExpressLRS 2.4GHz V3.3
• Serial UART
• BETAFPV 2.4GHz AIO RX

I utilised the software to investigate the VTX RF energy transmission characteristics of the BetaFPV Air 5in1 flight controller. Listed here are the outcomes:

Here are the measurements for the earlier Air 4in1 FC:

Concerns surround the BetaFPV Air F4 Flight Controller’s unusually high RF energy output at its lowest 25mW setting, posing a problem for Tiny Whoop racing events governed by stringent RF power regulations. Although the 5-in-1 FC seems to have this issue, it’s uncertain whether it’s a widespread problem as I’ve only tested one unit and cannot confirm its prevalence.

Can their working relationships withstand the rigors of competitive racing? Before participating in any event, it’s crucial to verify the RF output of your Air FC device. For those who fly recreationally at home or with friends, this issue is unlikely to be a concern.

While the truth may be that the 5in1 FC outputs up to 550mW, this represents a notable increase compared to the 4in1 model, resulting in greater penetration and versatility.

After seamlessly swapping out the outdated 4in1 Flight Controller in my drone for the cutting-edge 5in1 model, I was thrilled to discover that it integrated effortlessly, requiring zero modifications. The digicam and VTX antenna connectors occupy identical locations, ensuring a seamless and unchanged setup.

Pinout diagram:

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For enthusiasts of the popular Tiny Whoop series, the BetaFPV Air 5in1 FC offers a significant upgrade by integrating a high-resolution camera without requiring tedious additional wiring. This innovative design delivers all essential features required for exceptional first-person view (FPV) flight experiences within a remarkably lightweight and compact form. With the added convenience of an onboard receiver, this component is a superior choice for those looking to streamline their constructions while still enjoying exceptional performance.

Prior to racing, it is crucial to focus on the VTX RF energy, as it may exceed the permitted limit of 25mW. While the marginal upgrade over the 4in1 FC is warranted due to its enhanced performance, the result is a formidable competitor in the Tiny Whoop flight controller market, particularly appealing to casual flyers.