You’re in for a treat as you explore the EMAX EASY PILOT Beginner FPV Drone Kit, expertly reviewed by Dustin Dunnill. With its budget-friendly pricing under $100, this all-in-one package is perfect for anyone looking to dive into the world of drone flying. You’ll find everything you need right in the box, including FPV goggles, a controller, and the drone itself. Perfect for indoor fun, especially during times when staying indoors is necessary, this kit allows you to navigate your living space with ease.
As you follow along with Dustin’s unboxing and flight test, you’ll discover the kit’s thoughtful inclusions like the high-voltage battery and propeller guards that enhance durability. Despite a few minor caveats like the occasional missing component, the ease of use and beginner-friendly features make it a standout choice. Stay engaged with Dustin’s channel for more content, where Hawaii’s stunning landscapes provide the backdrop for future drone tests and cinematic videos. Enjoy the thrill of FPV flying from the comfort of your home with this comprehensive kit!
If you’re beginning in FPV, this is a kit to check out here. The EMAX Easy Pilot Beginner FPV has everything you need to start flying and practicing FPV.
See how it performs in my unboxing and flight review.
Extra batteries here.
My tried and tested gear that works:
- Lumix GH5 Camera Bundle
- DJI Mavic 2 drone for aerial shots
- Drone Launch Pad
- One+ 6T Phone – Fly App Never Crashes
- Apple Ipad Air 2
- DJI Action 4K Hat Cam
- Sony 4K Action Hat Cam
- DJI Osmo Pocket 4K Tracking Cam
- Portable Body MIC
- SD Card for all 4K Recording that lasts
- 3D Printable SD Card Tool
- Portable Compact Table
- Portable Chair with built-in Sunshade
- Full Featured Mobile Power Station
- Wrist Watch
Stay tuned and subscribe so you don’t miss future reviews, including dive tests, flight tests, range tests, and cinematic video here in Hawaii.
Aloha,
Dustin & Family
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Unboxing the EMAX EASY PILOT Kit
Contents of the Package
When you first unbox the EMAX EASY PILOT Kit, you’re immediately greeted with a delightfully comprehensive set of gear to kick off your FPV experience. Everything you need is neatly packed in the box. You’ll find the EMAX drone with its high-voltage 450mAh battery already snugly attached, additional propellers for backup, and a small toolkit complete with a screwdriver, extra screws, and O-rings for maintenance. Additionally, there’s the FPV goggles—a beginner-friendly headset that brings the thrill of first-person view piloting to life—and a user-friendly controller designed to ease you into the world of drone flying with minimal hassle.
Initial Impressions
Your first impression is bound to be one of satisfaction and readiness. The kit feels like a product of careful thought, offering a truly ‘ready-to-fly’ experience without the need for additional purchases. The FPV goggles look sleek despite their simplicity, and the controller gives an exciting promise of manageable controls with its intuitive layout. The drone itself, with built-in propeller guards and a durable design, suggests it can withstand the inevitable bumps of a beginner’s flight session.
Comparison with Other Starter Kits
Compared to other starter kits, the EMAX EASY PILOT truly shines, especially given its budget-friendly price point. Most starter kits in this category often miss out on including either the FPV goggles or a comprehensive set of tools needed for maintenance. The fact that EMAX provides both is a major advantage. Furthermore, its package is geared towards beginners who might not want to invest heavily at the onset but still desire a full experience without compromising on functionality.
Overview of EMAX EASY PILOT Specifications
Key Features
The EMAX EASY PILOT is geared with brushed motors suitable for indoor and calmer outdoor use. An in-built barometer assists in altitude hold, which is a blessing for those still grappling with basic flight dynamics. The FPV system operates on a 5.8GHz signal, providing a real-time flying experience without too much latency. Additionally, the structural design with integral propeller guards ensures a robust resilience to minor crashes.
Technical Specifications
Diving into the technical side, this drone features high-voltage 450mAh batteries known for delivering energetic performance suitable for short and controlled flying sessions. Its lightweight design enhances maneuverability, making it a joy for indoor environments. The FPV system is accompanied by adjustable goggles that also attempt to cater to different eye comfort levels, although, it lacks DVR capability, which some users might find limiting.
Pricing and Availability
The EMAX EASY PILOT is priced just under $100, making it a highly competitive choice for newcomers. It’s widely available online, often accompanied by detailed tutorial resources to assist new users in getting started efficiently. This accessibility, combined with its cost-effectiveness, positions the EMAX EASY PILOT as an appealing entry point for those interested in FPV flight.
First Time Setup and Assembly
Battery Installation
Setting up your EMAX EASY PILOT becomes straightforward with its slip-in battery design. You simply slide the high-voltage 450mAh battery into place beneath the drone body. The battery compartment is secure, ensuring there’s no mid-flight dislodgment, which allows for a stress-free setup that beginners will appreciate.
Attaching Propellers
Attaching propellers may sound daunting, but it’s straightforward with this kit. The extra propellers can be moved into place by hand, assisted by the included screwdriver and extra screws if needed. This ease of assembly is beneficial for maintaining your drone without much technical know-how.
Synchronizing the Controller
Synchronization is intuitive. Gently power on the controller and follow the quick-connect method outlined in the manual. Controller-to-drone sync lights help guide you, ensuring both are communicating properly — a handy feature for first-time users intent on a smooth flying experience.
Design and Build Quality
Materials Used
The EMAX EASY PILOT is crafted from durable yet lightweight plastic that contributes to its balance between robustness and nimbleness. The material, while designed to absorb minor impacts, is also flexible, reducing the likelihood of cracking or severe damage from standard use.
Durability and Protection Features
Durability is a key selling point with notable features, such as built-in propeller guards. These not only protect the propellers during collisions but also safeguard household items during indoor use. Additionally, the enclosed design mitigates the impact on motor life, adding longevity to the drone’s functional life.
Design Aesthetics
Design-wise, the drone is appealing with its sleek lines and compact body, contributing to the overall aerodynamic nature of the device. The emphasis on functionality over flashiness ensures a balance between practicality and pleasing visuals, with room for personalization via the included stickers that cater to the creative user.
Flight Characteristics and Performance
Indoor vs. Outdoor Flight
Primarily designed for indoor flight, the EMAX EASY PILOT excels in maneuvering through tight spaces, handling altitude with ease, and coping with ambient indoor conditions. Outdoors, its performance is slightly muted and best during calm weather conditions as stronger gusts can overpower its lightweight frame.
Flight Stability and Control
In terms of stability, the EMAX EASY PILOT surprises with its level of control, thanks to integrated flight modes and altitude hold. The learning curve is manageable, even for those who’ve never flown a drone before. The controller’s smooth stick movement emphasizes precision and control which enhances the overall flight experience.
Performance in Various Conditions
While perfect for indoor use, outdoor performance is significantly dependent on wind conditions, as the brushed motors lack the power needed to counter strong gusts. This makes calm conditions ideal for testing the limits beyond your living room or backyard.
FPV Goggles and Controller Functionality
Ease of Use
The FPV goggles are user-friendly, designed to fit comfortably, though they are bulkier than premium options. Their adjustability settings allow you to customize the fit to your needs, which assists in creating a more immersive flying experience without causing strain.
Adjustable Settings
The controller features adjustable flight modes for easier handling. Beginners can access ‘easy mode’ with altitude hold, offering a stress-free controlling environment. These settings make adapting to different flight challenges convenient, accommodating progression in skill level over time.
Performance and Limitations
The FPV goggles perform well in short to medium-range conditions, providing a decent patch for visual performance. However, a significant limitation emerges with the absence of DVR, which reduces the capability to record flights, an attractive feature for those looking to document their progress or capture cinematic flights.
Battery Life and Charging
Charging Time
Charging the EMAX EASY PILOT battery is relatively quick, taking approximately 45 minutes. Given that it’s a high-voltage 450mAh battery, this downtime is reasonable and forgivable, especially when considering the smooth operation it supports during flights.
Flight Duration on a Single Charge
On average, you can expect around 5 to 6 minutes of flight from a single charge. While this might appear limited, the time is adequate for short, energetic indoor flights, providing enough scope for honing your skills without frequent interruptions.
Suggestions for Additional Batteries
Given the short flight time, investing in additional batteries is recommended if you want longer continuous flight sessions. Having spare batteries pre-charged and ready can make for a seamless flying experience with minimal downtime, enhancing your overall enjoyment.
Beginner-Friendly Features
Different Flight Modes
Three distinct flight modes provide a gradual learning curve — Easy, Intermediate, and Advanced — each offering varied responsiveness and control sophistication. These modes allow you to progressively enhance your skills and bravely tackle more complex maneuvers as confidence grows.
Altitude Hold Functionality
The altitude hold function stands out as a beginner-friendly feature. It maintains a steady altitude without constant input, freeing your attention for practicing directional controls, which significantly aids in building foundational drone piloting skills.
Learning Curve for Newbies
For novices, the EMAX EASY PILOT offers a forgiving learning curve. The inclusion of different modes and intuitive controls means you can learn at your pace. The built-in safety features ensure that early mistakes are just that—a part of the learning process, not setbacks.
Areas for Improvement
Inclusion of DVR Capability
The FPV goggles lack DVR capability, an oversight for those who wish to record and review their flights. This feature omission might discourage users from fully enjoying the potential for sharing flight experiences or analyzing them for self-improvement.
Availability of Extra Batteries
While the package is comprehensive, the inclusion of extra batteries would significantly enhance the value, as multiple batteries are essential for more extended sessions. Incorporating them in the initial purchase would save time and cost for buyers initially.
Goggles Antenna Issue
Receiving only one antenna for a two-port receiver system is a noted issue. Ensuring quality control is important to avoid delivery of incomplete products, as newcomers might be disappointed with the logistical hassle of obtaining a replacement antenna.
Conclusion
Overall Impressions
The EMAX EASY PILOT Kit impresses as a genuinely beginner-friendly FPV drone that offers a robust and accessible entry into the drone flying world. Its well-considered design, coupled with ease of use, makes it a standout choice for newbies who want to grasp the essence of FPV flying without breaking the bank.
Suitability for Beginners
For those wondering if this is their gateway to FPV excitement, the EMAX EASY PILOT fulfills that role admirably. It takes fledgling pilots from ground zero to gaining confident control, making the flight journey as smooth as the drone handles.
Comparison with Competing Products
When compared to competing products in the same price range, EMAX EASY PILOT holds its own and, in many cases, exceeds expected performance for its category. It’s a thoughtfully designed package that ensures you have what’s essential for learning without needing immediate upgrades, a rarity in the beginner drone market. With minor improvements, it could become the quintessential starting point for many more enthusiasts.