The integration of GPS technology has revolutionized the realm of First-Person View (FPV) drones, thanks to significant advancements in features such as Betaflight’s Rescue Mode and iNav’s Return to Home capability. I’ll be testing a range of the most popular GPS modules from Flywoo, HGRLC, Beitian, GEPRC, and FlyfishRC, assessing their performance and offering my recommendations.
The latest Betaflight iteration has significantly enhanced the GPS Rescue Mode, rendering it both more reliable and accessible to users. This development makes it an absolute given to integrate a GPS module into every one of your quadcopter constructions. Notwithstanding, the issue persists in identifying a reliable GPS module that harmoniously blends cost, size, and weight without sacrificing precision.
What are some key takeaways from using Rescue Mode in Betaflight?
In this comprehensive roundup, we’ll explore a diverse range of options to find the most budget-friendly, compact, and high-performance GPS modules available.
Here are the GPS modules I’ve examined: You’ll discover these GPS items through the affiliate links provided below.
The HGLRC M100 Mini GPS module distinguishes itself through its exceptional value proposition, boasting a minuscule form factor and feather-light construction that even surpasses the BN180 in terms of compactness and portability.
Despite its compact dimensions – just 15x15mm – and a mere 0.8g weight, this module still leverages the powerful U-blox M10 chip to deliver global positioning capabilities via GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BDS satellite signals.
Without requiring any in-field calibration or adjustments, the HGLRC M100 Mini surpasses its BN220 counterpart in performance. Priced similarly to the BN220, this exceptional GPS module has become my top choice for five-inch freestyle quad builds, offering a reliable and efficient solution.
While the M100 Mini’s larger sibling boasts enhanced efficiency and comes equipped with a compass.
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Unfortunately, the GPS relies on an outdated M8 chip, which led to my experience with a defective unit – rendering it unusable for testing purposes. While the newer model is indeed larger and heavier, it fails to offer any tangible advantages over its predecessors, making it unclear why one would opt for this version when the M10 counterparts are available.
The HGLRC M80 Professional builds upon its predecessor, the M80, by incorporating the advanced M8 chip. While it may not match the capabilities of its M10 counterparts, this device’s modest price tag and added compass make it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders.
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This is one of the smallest M10 GPS modules available on the market, manufactured by FlyfishRC.
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Although its efficiency is unreliable and notoriously slow in securing a GPS lock, While the GOKU Nano V3 from Flywoo may be small, its exceptional efficiency makes it a standout, eclipsing the BN220 performance even with optimized U-Middle settings. With its identical performance value and significantly downsized yet featherlight build, the Flywoo GOKU Nano V3 proves itself an ideal choice for even the most compact micro builds.
Despite being a relatively small module, I’ve had the opportunity to operate it numerous times, consistently launching up to 26 satellites at once, an impressive feat considering its size. To ensure seamless operation of the tenth-generation Ublox GPS chip, utilize Betaflight model 4.3 or later.
Additionally, they provide a model equipped with a compass, greatly enhancing its versatility.
The GOKU GM10 Nano’s bigger sibling offers enhanced reliability and boasts a built-in compass, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts assembling iNav projects.
Acquire the Flywoo GOKU GM10 Professional V3 drone for a thrilling aerial experience.
As newer GPS modules featuring the advanced M10 chip enter the market, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to justify the continued use of older BN220 models. Avoid getting mismatched – the BN220 has stood the test of time, boasting a reliable reputation as a trusty GPS that consistently delivers solid performance with Betaflight, especially when optimized via U-Middle.
For owners of the BN220, rest assured that this device will continue to provide reliable service. Despite initial reservations, I strongly recommend opting for newer M10-based GPS modules for those considering a purchase. The data consistently trends upward at a consistent rate for a given value.
While the BN180 was initially a viable option, its appeal has waned in light of more affordable, feature-rich alternatives that also offer improved size and performance. While the BN180 module excels at acquiring a GPS signal, it’s worth noting that it can take significantly longer to achieve a lock compared to its M10 counterparts, which often yield faster results. Furthermore, this module tends to detect fewer satellites than its peers, potentially impacting overall performance.
When seeking a reliable GPS for larger drones, the GEPRC M1025Q is a formidable option to consider. It may seem enormous at first, yet it undeniably provides remarkable efficiency, justifying its size. This kit also includes a compass, an excellent feature that adds to its versatility in iNav projects. If budget and practicality don’t pose a challenge, go for it.
While browsing AliExpress, my attention was drawn to the VK2828U7G5LF GPS module, boasting an astonishingly low price point of just $4 – arguably the most budget-friendly GPS option available for FPV drone enthusiasts. I had to find my inner drive. Despite initial doubts, this GPS system surprisingly delivers results.
The GPS device typically operates at a default setting of 1 Hz refresh rate and 9,600 baud rate. I tuned the settings on my U-Middle device to 5Hz and 57,600Hz to enhance its performance. Regrettably, I was unable to alter certain settings on this GPS module. You may also configure it using U-Middle by following this tutorial:
A global positioning system device acquired a three-dimensional repair within two minutes of my room’s window view, posing no risk whatsoever for just $4; yet, I was unable to secure more than eight satellites despite waiting for a full five minutes. At a budget-friendly price point, this GPS module provides excellent value for its affordability. Regardless, I would not recommend relying on it for your most valuable possessions.
While FlyFishRC asserts its device utilizes a UBLOX10 GPS module, I must confess that, based on my technical knowledge, it operates with significantly enhanced capabilities akin to those of the esteemed M8 GPS. The GPS device features a built-in compass, utilising the QMC5883L magnetometer chip, which provides enhanced route accuracy for users seeking precise navigation.
Compact, measuring similarly in dimensions to the BN180, thereby rendering a highly condensed design. Notwithstanding its size, the device is substantial, tipping the scales at 9.4 grams and boasting dimensions of 20x20x11 millimeters in length, width, and height respectively.
The latest GPS offering from Beitian, launched in 2024, shares a similar profile and weight with its predecessor, the BN180. Despite my efforts, I was unable to successfully implement the feature in Betaflight 4.5 despite spending several hours troubleshooting. The device appears to be using the B101 chip according to its specifications, rather than the typical M-series component. It’s possible that this is the reason it’s currently unsupported. Given this reality, I am hesitant to recommend it at present.
You’ll find this GPS device located at:
Beitian’s latest GPS launch in 2024 boasts a design identical to its predecessor, the BN220, yet with added functionality, including an integrated compass. Despite my best efforts, I was ultimately unsuccessful in getting it to function with Betaflight after a frustrating several hours of trial and error. The board utilizes the B101 chip according to its datasheet specifications rather than an M-series component. That being said, possibly this is why it’s not currently supported. Despite this consideration, I do not currently recommend it.
Discover a reliable GPS device from Banggood:
Beitian’s latest GPS offering, released in 2024, boasts a sizeable upgrade over its predecessor, the BH222Q, with the added advantage of an integrated compass feature. Despite my best efforts, I was ultimately unable to make it function properly with Betaflight after an exhausting several hours of troubleshooting. The device appears to rely on the B101 chip according to its specifications, rather than the more common M-series chip, which might explain why it is currently unsupported. Given this constraint, I do not recommend it at present.
Discover a reliable GPS device from Banggood.
The following abstract presents the performance outcomes, featuring the time required to acquire 8 satellites (recommended by Betaflight for a reliable Rescue mode) under both hot-start and cold-start conditions, as well as the maximum number of satellites captured after powering up for five minutes.
Definitions:
- The GPS device has remained inactive for a period of at least twelve hours.
- What a journey begins: The GPS unit has remained dormant for less than an hour.
Testing Circumstances: The performance of these GPS devices was evaluated under overcast conditions in a suburban setting, where it can be expected that they will operate more efficiently due to reduced atmospheric interference and improved signal strength on a clear, cloudless day.
| GPS Module | Chilly Begin | Scorching Begin | 5 Minutes (no. of sats) |
| BN180 | 4:10 | 1:27 | 9 |
| BN220 | 3:15 | 1:55 | 11 |
| FlyfishRC M10 Mini | 1:14 | 1:02 | 15 |
| FlyfishRC M8QMC | 2:02 | 1:35 | 11 |
| Flywoo GM10 Nano V3 | 1:21 | 0:42 | 12 |
| Flywoo GM10 Professional V3 | 0:56 | 0:36 | 14 |
| GEPRC M1025Q | 0:32 | 0:31 | 16 |
| HGLRC M100 Mini | 1:40 | 1:14 | 12 |
| HGLRC M100 5883 | 0:46 | 0:40 | 16 |
| HGLRC M80 Professional | 2:19 | 1:55 | 10 |
| VK GPS | 4:04 | 2:17 | 8 |
For Pure Efficiency
Regardless of dimension or scale, my top choices for efficiency lie with the GEPRC M1025Q, the HGLRC M100 5883, and the Flywoo GM10 Professional V3. Equipped with an onboard compass, these devices offer exceptional versatility.
For Compactness and Micro Quads
What lies between us? While well-suited for smaller, lighter UAVs, these options remain a viable choice.
For Finances GPS
These ETFs and mutual funds are excellent investment options, available for just $13 each. The VK GPS is an affordable option at just $4, but its reliability isn’t convincing enough for me to recommend it strongly?
All recommended GPS modules are plug-and-play compatible with Betaflight. The module demands merely four cables: power supply (5V), a floor connection, and an additional UART transmitter/receiver wire linked to your flight controller. Compass modules typically necessitate an extra pair of wires to function effectively. Please confirm your setup details to proceed.
Now’s the ideal moment to integrate a GPS module into your FPV drone, especially for those who haven’t yet taken this crucial step. GPS modules have grown increasingly more affordable and user-friendly. For a minimal investment of just $4 (or around $16 for a high-performance GPS), you can safeguard against the costly mistake of losing your drone’s signal, making it an affordable insurance policy. Mount a GPS module on your FPV drone and savor the tranquility that comes from knowing exactly where you’re headed, even at the most dizzying altitudes.
Edit Historical past
- 2023 – Assessment posted.
- By July 2024, re-testing was conducted to refine the selection of GPS modules, which now includes additional options in the comprehensive round-up.
