REC S550
Score: 67/100
Hawk's Work F450
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Hawk's Work F450 kit offers a rugged glass-fiber frame, a full Pixhawk-based flight system and a sizable 4200 mAh battery for up to 20-minute flights and 1.8 kg payloads. The extensive component list requires significant assembly time and the RC range is modest. It is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, educators and researchers needing a customizable platform.
The REC S550 is a value-priced hexacopter frame kit offering a sturdy polycarbonate-fiberglass construction and six motors/ESCs. It lacks integrated electronics and higher-KV motors, making it best suited for experienced DIY builders who want a customizable heavy-lift platform.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 15 minutesbest | |
— | 4,200 mAhbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1,410 g | 280 gbest |
— | 450 mmbest | |
— | 1,800 gbest | |
10 inbest | 9.45 in | |
985 KVbest | 950 KV |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (net) (g) | 1410 g | 280 g |
Frame Material | Polycarbonate fiberglass with carbon fiber rods | Glass fiber and polyamide nylon |
Performance(2) | ||
Propeller Size (in) | 10 in | 9.45 in |
Recommended Motor KV (KV) | 985 KV | 950 KV |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the REC S550 for its durable construction, low cost, and straightforward motor/ESC mounting, but caution that the kit provides only the frame and basic power components, omitting essential electronics.
Everyday builders appreciate the sturdy frame, tight motor fit, and affordability, while frustrations focus on short screws, the need for soldering, and the absence of a flight controller or other electronics.
Professional reviewers consider the Hawk's Work F450 the top choice for newcomers to drone building, emphasizing its rugged frame, comprehensive component list, and flexibility for both hobbyist and research applications.
Direct consumer reviews are scarce, but product pages and FAQs suggest that total beginners may feel frustrated by the multi-day assembly and calibration process, while more experienced tinkerers appreciate the customization options and the value of the all-in-one kit.
