We’re reviewing the NewBeeDrone VRDrone RTF, a cost-effective and accessible FPV drone kit designed specifically for beginners. Priced at an unbeatable $159.99, this comprehensive package includes everything you need to dive into FPV, with no additional expenses required. With seamless integration between programming and meeting, this drone is ideal for anyone seeking a hassle-free entry into the thrilling realm of FPV flying. I’ll provide an in-depth assessment of each component, sharing my knowledge and highlighting both the key advantages and potential drawbacks.
Should you consider purchasing the NewBeeDrone VRDrone Ready-To-Fly (RTF) equipment from:
The NewBeeDrone VRDrone equipment package includes:
- The Drone
- FPV Goggles
- Radio Controller
- 4 Batteries
- Battery Charger
- USB-C Cable for Charging
- The innovative design of additional propellers and prop removing instrument offers a revolutionary approach to enhance propulsion systems in various applications.
Would this improvement affect the performance of existing aircraft or vessels?
The standout feature of this RTF equipment lies in its innovative, modular design of the FPV goggles.
These versatile field goggles provide multiple functionalities, acting not only as a first-person view (FPV) viewing device but also serving as a storage compartment for the drone, its batteries, and charger. The detachable display screen can be used as a standalone monitor, allowing spectators to view the content independently.
The Google Pixel’s display screen and camera module are firmly secured together using strong rare-earth magnets. When disassembled, the compartment discloses a battery tray that securely stores the drone and supplementary power sources, doubling as a charging station via the USB-C interface. Although the monitor’s rear features a screw mount, enabling attachment to a tripod and thereby increasing its overall flexibility.
The goggles feature a built-in DVR capability, enabling you to capture and record your flight experiences directly onto the included 32GB microSD card. Additionally, there’s an AV output that allows you to connect your device to a larger display screen, offering greater flexibility in terms of presentation and viewing options. Despite the upgrade to premium FPV goggles, this versatile monitor remains suitable for spectators and testing, offering a flexible solution.
The drone is a typical ‘quadcopter’ of its kind. While it may lack cutting-edge features, the device’s straightforward design and reduced complexity can actually benefit beginners.
While utilizing brushed motors that aren’t as robust as their brushless counterparts, these drones do offer extended flight times and a quieter operation, rendering them well-suited for indoor usage. The drone’s relatively low power consumption also simplifies regulation, making it an ideal choice for beginners just starting to learn. Despite this, brushed motors do degrade more rapidly than brushless motors, ultimately requiring replacement sooner. By that time, you will likely have refined your skills and geared up to handle an even faster and more advanced aerial vehicle.
Without a dedicated USB port, configuring this drone using software programs like Betaflight may be challenging, if not impossible. While this limits your ability to finely tune the drone’s settings, it is not necessarily a drawback for novices. By streamlining the learning process, it enables students to focus more intently on mastering the art of flight without being hindered by complex technical details. You can still regulate fundamental settings, such as PIDs and charge rates, within the on-screen display (OSD) menu, providing a degree of flexibility.
The drone features an aged PH2.0 connector and is powered by a reliable Nitro Nectar 1S 300mAh battery that securely slots into its body. Spare batteries are conveniently included, allowing you to quickly install them in the battery tray for reduced warm-up times when preparing for flight. After completing a flight, you can easily store all the lenses within the goggles. This thoughtful design guarantees that individual components are meticulously arranged and protected when not in operation.
The radio controller is compact, lightweight, and effortlessly easy to operate. The remote control offers essential command settings alongside toggle buttons for modifying flight configurations and powering on the aerial device. Despite using entry-level gimbals that may not match the precision of more advanced options, this setup can still deliver satisfactory results, especially for beginners.
The controller employs a unique proprietary RC protocol specifically designed for NewBeeDrone products, limiting its compatibility with other receivers and drones available in the market. For those just starting out, this limitation isn’t particularly restrictive. With a limited range of complex options available, novice pilots are able to focus on mastering the basics without feeling daunted by an overwhelming array of possibilities.
The VRDrone hovers steadily around 55-60% throttle output, its pace noticeably restrained compared to other efficient tiny whoops, such as those recently reviewed. For beginners, a docile and easy-to-control drone is perfectly suitable. Its slower tempo also reduces crash impact, thereby boosting durability and sturdiness. Despite its serene exterior, the drone is capable of executing impressive aerial stunts, including flips and rolls, at will.
It presents three flight modes:
- Retaining the drone stage as a beginner-friendly mode allows novice users to grasp the fundamentals effortlessly.
- Enabling a similar experience to Angle Mode, this feature allows for both flips and rolls.
- Offering unparalleled functionality, this mode delivers comprehensive guidance capabilities, akin to those found in high-end drones’ Acro modes.
With its remarkably low noise level, this drone is exceptionally well-suited for indoor flight operations, where a peaceful environment is crucial. I was previously thrilled with the battery life, which consistently delivered around 5-6 minutes of airborne enjoyment. The drone permits extended flight until its battery voltage drops to around 3.2V, providing ample opportunities to master core flying techniques.
The accompanying charging tray accommodates up to four batteries simultaneously—simply plug them in, and you’re ready to go. When fully charged, the charging indicator lights transition smoothly from purple to green, providing an instant visual cue for when your device is ready for use again. The battery tray features a secure design that keeps the batteries firmly in place, eliminating rattling and ensuring safe transportation.
While the charging tray offers convenient usage, its absence of a storage capacity feature requires manual tracking of battery levels. It is essential to maintain a balance by keeping batteries neither completely depleted nor excessively charged, as prolonged neglect can negatively impact their longevity and performance over time. When storing LiPo batteries, it’s advisable to discharge them to around 3.8V to maintain optimal health, especially if you won’t be flying for an extended period – think more than two weeks, for instance. While you may learn more about managing batteries by reading this article:
Before taking off, ensure the propellers are fully engaged and secured. I lost a significant number of gears due to the motor shafts being surprisingly fragile. Secure additional spare props that feature a 0.8 millimeter shaft diameter in advance to ensure uninterrupted operation should the need arise.
Organising the drone is easy. The battery securely inserted, power cord plugged in, the drone springs to life with a hushed hum. To activate the ability buttons on the radio and goggles, press and hold them down for exactly five seconds. If you fail to detect a video feed through your goggles, simply press and hold the “Channel Search” button for a few seconds.
Prior to each flight, ensure the drone is placed on a flat surface to enable the gyroscope and accelerometer to calibrate, guaranteeing stable takeoff. To access the on-screen display (OSD) menu and adjust settings, navigate by centering the throttle, tilting the stick left while pitching up.
The NewBeeDrone VRDrone FPV equipment provides an excellent introduction to first-person view (FPV) flying for newcomers, serving as a robust entry point. For novice pilots seeking to master FPV without the complexity of advanced software like Betaflight, it’s an extraordinary opportunity to hone their skills. While the lack of customizability and proprietary protocol may hinder your growth as a pilot, the affordable price point makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the world of FPV and determining whether this hobby suits your interests. Consider the BetaFPV Cetus X for a versatile platform to play with Betaflight.
While it may not match the exceptional performance of higher-end FPV drones, this model presents a gentle learning curve courtesy of its intuitive controls and robust build quality. With its comprehensive design, this equipment enables rapid takeoff, needing mere minutes to prepare and get airborne.
While the DJI Spark is an excellent choice for beginners or casual users, those seeking a drone they can customize and evolve with over time may find its limited configurability and performance insufficient to meet their needs. While offering exceptional value, this is an excellent means of developing expertise in FPV flying and determining whether it’s a suitable interest for you.
