Mini rc helicopters have been around for a while, but the technologically advanced micro helicopters of today are more stable and capable of pulling off aerial maneuvers than their predecessors could even dream of! When you couple this with the fact that many mini helicopter models are now able to snap quality digital photos and video footage, it’s not surprising that more and more people are discovering just how fun a micro rc helicopter can be.
Regardless of your age or skill level, you’re sure to have a blast flying a micro heli! More versatile than a remote control boat and way easier to maintain than say an RC nitro truck, mini helicopters are the ‘kings of fun’ when it comes to RC toys and vehicles.
What to Choose?
However, your fun can come to an abrupt halt if you choose the wrong one for your needs or skill level. Herein lies the problem. With the marketplace flooded by so many different micro helicopters and other RC helicopters to choose from, how do you know which ones are the best?
Well, you could find out the hard way like myself and so many others have done before you, or you can utilize my many years of mini remote control helicopter experience and take my advice by picking one of the five helis below. Rated according to their features and performance, one of these mini helicopters is sure to be a perfect match for you!
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1. Syma X1 4-Channel 2.4GHz RC Quadcopter – UFO
As an industry leader, Syma is well-known for producing excellent mini helis and RC toys in general, but with nearly 500 overwhelmingly positive Amazon reviews, the Syma X1 4-Channel RC Quadcopter – UFO is one of the company’s best.
This quality entry-level quadcopter has a built-in three-axis gyro and can be used in both indoor and outdoor (but probably best in calmer conditions) fly modes, ensuring maximum stability in an array of environments.
The best part about this mini helicopter, however, is its incredible durability. With most mini rc helicopters, a wreck immediately spells disaster, but this beast of an rc mini helicopter shrugs off wrecks left and right.
In addition to being extremely durable, the Syma X1 is also quite stable and easy to fly. When its superior maneuverability is added to the equation, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular mini helicopters amongst today’s enthusiasts.
2. Estes 4606 Proto X Nano RC Quadcopter
The electric powered ready-to-fly Proto X Nano Quadcopter by Estes is controlled by a 4-channel 2.4GHz transmitter, giving you the power and control to maneuver this speedy little 2” X 2” micro heli wherever and however you like.
Rather than using a cheap infrared transmitter, the transmitter for this hobby-grade mini helicopter gives it free reign over the skies! The heli responds quickly to commands and the gyro makes it extremely stable.
Like most mini helicopters, flight time ranges from five to seven minutes and it takes 40 minutes to charge via the included USB charger. Although it sounds cool as it buzzes through the sky and looks equally cool with red and blue LED lights, it would be even better if it came with a removable or replaceable battery option .
In the end, however, the Estes 4606 Proto X Nano RC Quadcopter is arguably the best mini rc helicopter for such an affordable price.
3. WL Toys V959 Mini RC Quadcopter – Future BattleShip Gatling Machine with Onboard Camera
With countless positive reviews and a stellar reputation, this purpose-built quadcopter utilizes a well-tested platform to provide anyone new to the wonders of aerial video with a solid entry-level machine!
The onboard camera can easily be activated or deactivated via the accompanying 4-channel 2.4GHz radio transmitter, allowing you to effortlessly take aerial videos. The ready-to-fly mini remote control helicopter is also quite stable and tame, which is ideal for both videos and novice aviators.
While the picture quality of the onboard camera will not win you any cinematography awards, it’s 1280 X 720 resolution provides surprisingly clear video for this price point. It’s also worth noting that the range of the WL Toys V959 is better than many similar models.
Although 6-axis mini rc helicopters provide more advanced users with better video platforms, this very cool looking 4-axis micro heli is one of the best for anyone new to aerial videography. There’s nothing quite like watching your flight video for the first time!
4. Nano QX
The tiny and deceptively demur Nano QX is a fast and fun mini flying machine that you can take with you wherever you go. Weighing in at a little over half an ounce, the Nano QX utilizes its patented SAFE technology to fly into the tightest of spaces.
This hobby-quality machine is superbly stable, yet it’s also ultra-responsive and able to pull off mazing acrobatic maneuvers when placed in high rate modes. If you’re in the market for a durable, high-quality mini quadcopter that can zip around in small spaces, this quad is hard to beat!
On a side note, while it says the radio remote is not included, reviewers have found that a 4-channel 2.4GHz radio transmitter is included in the modest purchase price.
In the end, if you’re looking for the smallest rc helicopter available with terrific performance capabilities, the Nano QX is the one.
5. Hubsan X4 H107C 6-Axis Gyro RC Quadcopter with HD 2MP Camera
Like Syma, Hubsan is renowned for making some of the best micro helicopters in the industry, and the Hubsan X4 is a shining example of why this respected company has such a sterling reputation!
Featuring the latest in flight control systems, the Hubsan X4’s 6-axis platform with adjustable gyros provides the superior flight stability needed to produce crisp photos and videos from its HD 2MP onboard camera.
Unlike less stabile 3-axis or 4-axis mini helicopters, the 6-axis X4 can be flown both indoors and out, making it terrific for anyone who wants to do more with their mini helicopter than run it into walls all day! However, protection covers can also be ordered to further beef up the durability of this superior mini rc helicopter.
While you may not be able to shoot Nike commercials with the onboard camera, it’s more than capable of taking high-quality photos and videos. When all of the benefits of the X4 are taken into consideration, it’s easy to see why so many rc enthusiasts consider it the best mini rc helicopter on the market today.
The Mini RC Helicopter is Amazing!
Whether you’re a seasoned rc enthusiast or a relative newbie to the fun world of mini helicopters, you’re here because you know just how fun these palm-sized little flyers can be! However, as you may already know, the difference between hours of fun and hours of frustration boils down to picking the right mini helicopter for your needs and skill level, which can often seem like a game of roulette. Fortunately, you can save some coin and a headache or two by picking one of these industry-leading mini helicopters today!
Why are they all quadcopters?
Hi Michael,
They are all quadcopters as I personally honestly believe that if you want to go small then quadcopters give you such a better experience than traditional signal rotor copters. Just my opinion though 🙂
Thanks!
David – My RCtopia
Can someone lead me to a store where I can buy a LARGE,Metal, build it yourself, very difficult, inexpensive, HELICOPTER?
I don’t want this one to fly just need a challenge!
Thank you kindly. I’m contemplating taking my PS4 apart so that I have something to build!! (Not familiar with those)
Hi Mike,
Sounds like a pretty good challenge! I’m not sure myself on this but someone else reading this might be able to point you in the right direction. Let us know how you get on 🙂
David – My RCtopia.