REC S500
Score: 75/100
Tiny Hawk Tinyhawk 3
Score: 73/100Rankings
The REC S500 DIY UAS Drone Development Kit features a carbon-fiber/aluminum frame with an integrated 30A ESC and supports up to 10-inch propellers. Space constraints for larger batteries and calibration hurdles can affect ease of use. Targeted for hobbyists and intermediate builders wanting a versatile, customizable platform.
The Tinyhawk 3 RTF Kit is a 75 mm indoor FPV racing drone bundle that includes goggles, a transmitter, and a 450 mAh battery for ready-to-fly convenience. Its low-power VTX and short flight time limit outdoor use and endurance. Ideal for absolute beginners and kids learning to fly in confined indoor spaces.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 4 minutesbest | |
— | 450 mAhbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 29 gbest |
500 mmbest | 75 mm | |
— | 42 gbest | |
10 inbest | 1.57 in | |
— | 15,000 KVbest | |
5best | 5best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Type | LiPo | 1S HV LiPo |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Frame Size (diagonal) (mm) | 500 mm | 75 mm |
Frame Material | Carbon fiber + aluminum | Polypropylene |
Performance(1) | ||
Propeller Size (in) | 10 in | 1.57 in |
Controls(1) | ||
Flight Controller | APM 2.8 | F4 (MATEKF411 firmware) |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors are absent from major tech sites, but product listings and niche drone blogs highlight the REC S500's durability, ease of customization, and balanced flight characteristics, positioning it as a solid value-pack option for hobbyists and intermediate DIY builders.
Everyday users appreciate the straightforward 10-minute motor/ESC installation, stable flight after auto-tuning, and the flexibility to add GPS, cameras or FPV gear, but they commonly report challenges with compass calibration, initial prop/motor mounting, and limited room for larger batteries or heavy gimbals.
Professional reviewers commend the Tinyhawk RTF Kit for its smooth handling, solid build quality, and excellent value as a beginner-focused indoor FPV solution. They highlight the integrated F4 controller, durable frame, and ready-to-fly package, while noting the limited power output and short flight time restrict its use to indoor environments.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the kit as an ideal entry point for new pilots, citing its ease of setup, durability, and enjoyable indoor racing experience. Common criticisms focus on the short battery life, heavy goggles, and limited outdoor capability, with many users mentioning the need for spare batteries and occasional prop wear.
“flies very well”
“Compass calibration took a while”
“Amazing for beginners”
