Glossary | BrianPhillipsRC

Toy Grade

Best for...

Beginners on a budget
Kids
People who really aren't sure they'll enjoy flying and just want something to "get in the air" with.

Toy Grade planes typically come in a Ready-to-Fly (RTF) configuration from manufacturer's like Volantex, Eachine, RC Era, Top RC, etc.

These planes are generally durable and have some good beginner features, like pop-off props, but they lack sophisticated flight controllers and tend to over-deliver on unnecessary features. They are also limited on spare parts availability... there isn't much beyond replacement props. Toy grade planes are almost always best flown in "Beginner" mode and rarely work well in "Expert" or "Advanced" modes. BUT... they WILL get you in the air and give you a taste of flying. If you're really on a limited budget, or teaching a kid to fly, these are a great place to start, and you won't feel terrible if they end up in the garbage eventually. Everybody starts somewhere.

Honestly, both of our boys gained a lot of experience and confidence on Toy Grade airplanes, and they are a great first step for many hobbyists.

Hobby Grade

Best for...

Beginners
Pilots returning to the hobby
Pilots who know they're hooked on the hobby and want the best equipment right away.

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Hobby Grade planes come in a variety of finish levels (see examples below) and come from manufacturer's like E-flite, FMS, HobbyKing, etc.

These planes are higher build quality, include better electronics and generally have more replacement parts available. RTF's in the Hobby Grade category (like the AeroScout) still have non-programmable transmitters, but that transmitter can be used on multiple airplanes. Beginner planes in this category also include better flight controllers that can actually take you from true beginner to experienced pilot with the aid of stabilization systems like SAFE and AS3X, both proprietary Spektrum systems, but similar gyros are offered by other manufacturers.

If you are returning to the hobby or KNOW you're already hooked, start with a Hobby Grade plane, you won't regret it, especially if your spring for a programmable transmitter, like the NX8+.