Choosing The Best VTX (Video Transmitter) For FPV Drones - The Ultimate Beginner Guide - Oscar Liang

29/12/2023, 23:04 Choosing the Best VTX (Video Transmitter) for FPV Drones - The Ultimate Beginner Guide
imate Beginner Guide - Oscar Liang
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Choosing the Best VTX (Video Transmitter) for FPV Drones – The
Ultimate Beginner Guide
5th April 2023
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The Video Transmitter (VTX) is a crucial component of the FPV system, wirelessly transmitting camera
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images to FPV goggles. When selecting a 5.8GHz VTX, consider compact size, features, channel support, 
https://oscarliang.com/video-transmitter/ 1/29
29/12/2023, 23:04 Choosing the Best VTX (Video Transmitter) for FPV Drones - The Ultimate Beginner Guide - Oscar Liang
and accurate transmitting frequency, in addition to long range and high output power, to ensure optimal flight
performance and minimal interference for fellow pilots. By understanding these key factors, you’ll be better
equipped to choose the optimal 5.8GHz VTX for your FPV drone and enjoy a more immersive and enjoyable
flying experience.
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Table of Contents 


6. Powering VTX
7. Output Power
7.1. Higher Power for Extended Range
7.2. Downsides of High Output Power
7.3. Antennas: Equally or More Important
8. Understanding VTX Channels

9. Onboard Microphone
10. Key Considerations for Analog VTX

10.1. Changing VTX Settings
10.2. Pitmode
10.3. Connecting an Analog FPV Camera to a VTX
11. Best Practices Using VTX

11.1. Never Power Up VTX without an Antenna
11.2. How to Avoid Noisy Video
11.3. Avoid Contact between VTX Antenna Ground and Frame
12. Conclusion
Analog vs Digital FPV Systems
FPV systems can be categorized into two types: analog and digital.

Analog equipment is not compatible with digital FPV gear. Presently, there are three digital FPV systems: DJI,
Walksnail, and HDZero. Cameras and VTXs designed for a specific digital FPV system are also incompatible
with other digital FPV systems. If you’re unsure about which FPV system to choose, here’s my review
explaining the pros and cons of each system: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-system/
VTX Recommendations
In this section, I will recommend the best VTX for each FPV system for different applications.
DJI
Top Notch Image and Range Versatile and Affordable
DJI O3 RunCam Link / Caddx Vista
The DJI O3 system delivers exceptional image

The RunCam Link (also known as the Caddx Vista)
quality and range, making it a standout choice for
is a compact and lightweight VTX option tailored for
cinematic and freestyle FPV pilots. It combines the
DJI pilots who are looking for easy mounting and
capabilities of an FPV system and an 4K action
don’t require onboard recording.
camera.
With various camera options available, you can
Keep in mind it exclusively supports DJI FPV
select the best fit for your needs. The RunCam Link
Goggles V2, Goggles 2, and Goggles Integra, but
is a versatile and cost-effective solution for those
NOT the V1 goggles. At the time of this update,
looking to enjoy the benefits of the DJI FPV system
there is only one camera available for the O3 Air
without breaking the bank.
Unit – the O3 camera module.
Find the DJI O3 Air Unit from these vendors: Get the Runcam Link Air Unit from:
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-sadl AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-4blv GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-flho
AE: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdQYArv Amazon: https://amzn.to/3KB78R5
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sell my personal information. RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-awlg
NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-ewnq NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-sg0a

Walksnail ULTIMATE SHOPPING LIST  LATEST  ABOUT 
Best All-Around VTX Great for Micro
Walksnail Avatar HD VTX V2 Walksnail Avatar 1S Lite VTX
The Walksnail Avatar HD V2 VTX offers enhanced

features such as 32GB storage for onboard 1080p
The Walksnail Avatar HD Mini 1S Lite VTX, ideal
recording, Gyroflow support for image stabilization,
for micro drones such as Tiny Whoops, boasts a
a grounded heatsink to reduce GPS interference,
compact design and weighs just 8.7 grams
and additional 20x20mm mounting options for
together with the Lite nano camera. It offers 720p
greater frame compatibility. Various compatible
and 1080p HD FPV capabilities, along with 8GB of
cameras are available depending on your
onboard storage for video recording.
preferences for image quality, low light
performance, or weight reduction. However, the Mini 1S Lite VTX requires an input
voltage between 3.1V and 5V, so it can either be
As a budget-friendly alternative to DJI systems,
powered directly from a 1S LiPo battery or a 5V 2A
Walksnail’s V2 VTX does have some drawbacks,
BEC if you are using 2S batteries. Ensure the 5V
such as the lack of an SD card slot for storage
BEC can supply adequate current for optimal
expansion and 4K recording, and a single antenna
performance.
design that could impact range and penetration
performance.
Get the Walksnail VTX V2 from: Product Pages:

AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com Caddx: https://oscarliang.com/product-d75h
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-escn AE: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdCMC0z
Amazon: https://amzn.to/40GZkTf GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-27gi
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-rs15 RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-3uda
Caddx:
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by remembering your preferences and repeat

HDZero 
BestSHOPPING
ULTIMATE VTX for Freestyle
LIST  and Long
LATEST  Range
ABOUT 
HDZero Freestyle V2
The HDZero Freestyle V2 VTX offers the best range and penetration for the HDZero systems, thanks to its
1W transmit power. Ideal for aggressive freestyle and long-range flights, it features massive heatsinks on
both sides for physical protection and cooling.
Out of the box, it supports 25mW/200mW, but with a HAM radio license, it can be unlocked up to 1W using
special firmware. The VTX weighs 22.3g and supports 2S-6S batteries direct power, with SmartAudio and
MSP Canvas Mode compatibility.
Find the HDZero 1W Freestyle V2 VTX from these vendors

AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DkoyILh
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-47i8
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-1lf1
Light Weight Option Best VTX for Micro Drones
HDZero Race V2 VTX HDZero Whoop Lite


The HDZero Race V2 ULTIMATE

VTX is designed for racing,
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The HDZero Whoop Lite VTX is the smallest and
featuring a compact and lightweight design that fits
lightest VTX in the HDZero system, designed
on 20x20mm M3 mounting. It supports
specifically for micro FPV drones like tiny whoops.
SmartAudio, allowing VTX settings changes from
Versatile with 1S to 3S power support, it can be
Betaflight OSD and OpenTX/EdgeTX radios. The
powered directly from most micro drone batteries. It
U.FL connector can be secured with a zip tie to
also features SmartAudio for changing VTX
prevent antenna detachment during crashes, and it
settings in Betaflight OSD.
has a built-in TVS diode for power protection.
When paired with the HDZero Nano Lite Camera
However, its 200mW output power is modest and
(1.5g) and a 0.4g dipole antenna, this combo
may not be ideal for long-range flights. This
creates the world’s lightest digital FPV solution,
limitation is not significant for racing events, as
weighing under 7g in total.
most restrict output power to 25mW.
Get the HDZero Whoop Lite from:

Product Pages:
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-x3g9
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-ee00
AE: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeXQpih
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-i6a0
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-nsgx
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/
NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-wrqp
Analog
Decent Value VTX Most Versatile Premium VTX
Rush Tank Ultimate Plus TBS Unify Pro32 HV
The 800mW
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striking a good balance between VTX known for its accurate output power levels,
performance and cost. clean signal transmission, high quality, and

reliability. With up to 1000mW output power in a
The Rush Ultimate Plus is ideal for builds with compact package, it’s perfect for long range,
limited space for an extra board in the FC stack. racing, or casual freestyle.
However it also includes a 30.5×30.5mm adapter
The VTX also supports TBS Crossfire systems,
for installation on top of your FC if needed.
allowing users to change channels and power
The built-in microphone is a bonus, allowing you to levels through the Crossfire receiver. This feature is
hear the motors and beeper through your FPV especially useful for pilots without a flight controller
goggles audio output. or Betaflight OSD, like those flying fixed-wing
aircraft.
Get the TBS Unify Pro32 HV from these

Find the Rush Tank Ultimate Plus from: vendros:
AE: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DE9aA0t GetFPV: http://bit.ly/2m9XMmT

GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-211v NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-z0ht
Best Long Range Cheapest Worth Having
Rush Tank MAX SOLO (2.5W) / SOLO (1.6W) Flywoo GOKU HM600
For long-range pilots, the RushFPV Tank Solo The GOKU HM600 is an excellent budget VTX
offers the most powerful VTX options available in option for affordable builds. Priced at just $19.99,
the FPV industry. this compact VTX is packed with features that rival
more expensive options.
There are two versions, SOLO with up to 1.6W
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Both VTX’s are enclosed in massive CNC 20x20mm, 25.5×25.5mm, and 30x30mm,
aluminium heatsink, which helps maintain accommodates a wide input voltage from 2S to 6S,
maximum output power and prevents performance supports 5 bands, and can output up to 600mW. Its 
loss due to overheating. The SOLO is fan-less lightweight and compact design makes installation
which means it’s lighter and more compact a breeze.
compared to the MAX SOLO.
Get the Rush SOLO 1.6W here:
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-rh88
Get the GOKU HM600 VTX here:
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-5s6o
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-m23h Flywoo: https://oscarliang.com/product-fv8s
AE: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DCbhkhL RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-46ki
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-yx04
Get the Rush MAX SOLO 2.5W here:
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Budget Smallest Premium Smallest
Happymodel ELRS Fyujon AIO Board TBS Unify Pro32 Nano


ULTIMATE SHOPPING LIST  The TBS Unify

LATEST  Pro32
ABOUTNano
 is the ultimate choice
The Happymodel ELRS Fyujon AIO Board is an
for micro quads and Tiny Whoops if you’re seeking
affordable, compact 300mW VTX designed for
the smallest and most powerful VTX. It holds the
micro drones. With 25.5×25.5mm, 20x20mm, and
title for the most compact video transmitter on the
16x16mm mounting options available, it offers
market, measuring just 15x13x2mm and weighing
great compatibility.
a mere 1 gram.
Priced at just $21, it includes both a VTX and an
Despite its tiny size, the Pro32 Nano can deliver an
ExpressLRS 2.4GHz receiver, with the entire
impressive output power of up to 500mW.
combo weighing a mere 3g. This all-in-one solution
Conveniently, it can be powered directly from a 2S
is perfect for tiny drones that lack a built-in VTX
or 3S LiPo battery, making it an ideal option when
and RX in the flight controller.
there’s no 5V source available.
Find the Happymodel ELRS Fyujon AIO Board

Shops:
here:
AE: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdeBxKh
GetFPV: http://bit.ly/2ma58qv
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Image Quality
Although VTX prices can vary significantly, image quality is mostly determined by your FPV camera, not the
VTX. Paying a premium for a high-end VTX won’t dramatically improve image quality in most cases. However,
selecting a VTX with excellent features and reliable signal quality can enhance your overall flying experience.
Signal Quality
The main factors that contribute to FPV signal quality and range are the quality and placement of the
antennas and the VTX’s accuracy in transmitting at the intended frequency.
Higher-end analog VTXs offer more accurate transmit frequencies and cleaner signals that interfere less to
the neighbouring channels. Antennas should be designed and tuned for a specific frequency range.


Some digital VTXs offer dual antennas (diversity), allowing you to mount them at a 90-degree angle to
improve signal quality regardless of your aircraft’s attitude during flight.
You can learn more about the optimal antenna placement in this post: https://oscarliang.com/antenna-
positioning/
Antenna Connector
Most VTXs come with antennas you can simply plug in. However, if you want to upgrade or replace them, it’s
important
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MMCX.

SMA and RP-SMA

SMA and RP-SMA are the oldest connector used in FPV gear. They are relatively large and threaded
connector. There are two kinds, SMA and RP-SMA, make sure you match the connector type with the
appropriate antenna.
You can use SMA to RP-SMA converters and adapter cables for incompatible connectors, but be aware that
there’s a small performance penalty for each adapter used. Generally a few percent of signal loss, it’s not
much.
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connectors and is press-fit into place, making it prone to coming loose in crashes, therefore manufactures
tend to use glue or retention to secure it in place.
MMCX
MMCX strikes a balance between the fragile U.FL and bulky SMA connectors. As a newer connector type, it’s
a press-fit connector but much sturdier than UFL, making it less likely to pop out during a crash. MMCX also
has a higher mating cycle count than UFL. This design balances the tradeoffs between SMA’s durability and
U.FL’s size and weight. However, finding an MMCX antenna can be challenging as it’s not yet as common as
the other two connectors.
Powering VTX
Modern video transmitters (VTX) typically support a wide range of input voltages, allowing you to power them
directly from your drone’s battery (e.g., 4S or even 6S LiPo). However, a popular approach is to power the
VTX using a voltage regulator on the flight controller, commonly known as a BEC (Battery Elimination Circuit).
Not only does a BEC convert higher voltage to a lower one, but it also acts as a filter for your VTX’s power
supply. Drone
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voltage spikes and electrical noise from your power system.
For example, the Speedybee F405 V3 FC has a dedicated 9V BEC for powering video transmitters.
Another essential factor to consider when powering your VTX from a BEC (or any voltage regulator) is
ensuring it can supply the required current for the VTX to function correctly. Manufacturers don’t always
include amp draw in their specs, which is why it’s helpful to check out my reviews as I always try to provide
info like this. An underpowered VTX might result in reduced range or instability, affecting your overall FPV
experience.
If you choose to power your VTX directly from the battery, make sure it has proper power filtering to prevent
noise and lines in your videos. A popular filtering method is using an LC filter or simply adding a low ESR
capacitor at the power input.
Output Power


The power output of a video transmitter determines the amount of energy radiated through it. VTX output
power is measured in milliwatts (mW) or decibels milliwatts (dBm). Most VTXs have adjustable output power,
providing flexibility depending on your flying environment and preferences.
Higher Power for Extended Range

Generally, more power means more range; however, this comes with some downsides, such as increased
heat in the VTX and potential interference for other pilots. Additionally, each country may have different legal
limits on the maximum output power you are allowed to transmit.
Typically, 25mW is excellent for indoor flying and flying with others, offering sufficient range for most racing
tracks. On the other hand, pilots tend to use higher output power when flying outdoors for a more reliable link
and to fly further. Keep in mind that increasing output power results in diminishing returns in range
improvement, as it takes four times the power to double the range. Learn how to calculate range in this
tutorial: https://oscarliang.com/calculate-fpv-range/
Downsides of High Output Power

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surfaces. In these situations, it makes sense to use a lower output power.
When flying with a group, it’s best to avoid high-power VTXs, as they can bleed into other pilots’ video feeds,
making it difficult to fly together. Most racing events require pilots to run 25mW VTXs.
Antennas: Equally or More Important

In addition to your VTX’s output power, the antennas on your transmitter and FPV goggles or receiver
significantly impact your range and signal quality. With an optimal antenna setup, 25mW has been proven to
be able to achieve over 5km of range, while 400mW should be able to handle four times of that (over 20km) in
ideal conditions. Many factors, such as interference, antenna alignment and placement, can impact your
maximum range too. To learn more about FPV antennas, check out this tutorial: https://oscarliang.com/best-
fpv-antenna/
Understanding VTX Channels
VTX channels are preset frequencies you can use to broadcast your video back to the video receiver. To
establish a connection, select the same channel on both the video transmitter and video receiver. 5.8GHz
(5800MHz) is the preferred frequency band for FPV because it’s legal in many countries, and the antennas
can be made quite small.
In the analog system, there are five bands: A, B, E, F (Fatshark), and R (Raceband), with eight channels per
band. This gives you a total of 40 channels to choose from. While these are the most common bands, there
are others, but not all frequencies are legal to use. However, some channels overlap between different bands,
so you can’t have 40 people flying simultaneously. In fact, it’s quite a challenge to have just 8 people flying at
the same time. To maximize the number of pilots in the air without interference, it’s key to use good quality
VTX that has clean signal, and ensure to allocate channels with enough frequency separation.


For digital FPV systems, channel management is simpler, because there is just one band available (only 8
channels), and it’s easier to manage. These channels fall within the same or similar frequencies as the analog
Raceband channels.
This is Walksnail Avatar’s channel selection screen inside the FPV Goggles.
If you fly alone, you don’t need to worry about which VTX channel to use—just pick any! However, when flying
with others, it’s essential to allocate channels carefully to minimize interference. To learn more about selecting
the best FPV channel, check out this post: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-channels/#choosing-a-channel-in-analog
Onboard Microphone
By having a microphone in the drone allows you to listen to the motors, which some pilots argue makes them
feel more connected to the drone, especially when flying at distances where the drone’s sound is no longer
audible. For more details, visit: https://oscarliang.com/microphone-fpv/
Manufacturers of digital FPV systems generally don’t include onboard microphones in their VTX designs.
However, some analog VTXs and FPV cameras have built-in microphones if you wish to incorporate this
feature in your FPV setup.
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my personal pales in comparison to digital systems, with its blurry, low-resolution, and noisy
images, it remains popular due to its wide availability, low cost, compact size, and low latency. Another key

advantage of analog systems is their compatibility, allowing you to easily swap video transmitters from
different brands with one another.
Essentially any analog VTX will suffice for beginners, but when flying with others, it’s crucial to have a high-
quality one. Some low-quality, generic VTXs have “dirty” signals that scatter beyond the actually set channel
into other frequencies, potentially interfering with other pilots’ signals.
Changing VTX Settings

There are several methods to change channels, bands, and power settings on your VTX.
Almost all VTXs these days come with a push button for changing channels and adjusting other settings.
However, due to the single button and limited status indicators (LED lights), this procedure can be confusing
and complicated.
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The most efficient method for changing analog video transmitter settings is using Betaflight OSD. If your VTX
supports SmartAudio or Tramp protocols, you can follow this guide to set up VTX Control:
https://oscarliang.com/vtx-control/


Pitmode
Pitmode is a crucial feature for those who race or often fly with other pilots. It enables the output power of your
VTX to drop to an extremely low level (practically zero) when your quad is powering on or has crashed. This
way, you can change your VTX settings or retrieve your quad without disrupting other pilots who might still be
in the air.
Connecting an Analog FPV Camera to a VTX


Wiring an analog video transmitter in your drone may vary depending on the components involved. At its most
basic, a VTX requires 3 connections: video input, power, and ground.
To connect the FPV camera directly to a VTX, connect the signal wires and ensure you have a working video
receiver on the same channel in your FPV goggles to receive an image. If the FPV camera and VTX are
powered from different sources, also connect their ground wires.
A common way to connect a VTX is through the flight controller if it has a built-in OSD chip. You’ll find a video
input (Vin) on the flight controller to connect the camera signal and a video output (Vout) on the flight controller
to connect to the VTX.


Make sure you provide the correct voltage to your VTX to avoid damaging or under-powering it. You can
typically power your VTX directly from your flight controller if it has a BEC (a built-in voltage regulator that
supplies either 5V, 9V, or 12V, etc.). Most VTXs nowadays support a wide range of input voltage, so you might
be able to power them directly from a LiPo battery.
Best Practices Using VTX

Never Power Up VTX without an Antenna
Always remember to connect an antenna to your VTX before powering it up. If you power up your VTX without
an antenna, the energy has nowhere to escape, causing heat to build up in the transmitter. Over time, this
excess heat can damage the VTX.
How to Avoid Noisy Video

Motors and ESCs can generate a significant amount of electrical noise in your power system, which can
introduce noise into your video feed. If you power your FPV gear (e.g., VTX and camera) directly from the
battery, electrical noise can cause interference, resulting in white lines or flickering across the screen.
To troubleshoot and prevent these issues, consider the following:
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2. Properly manage your wiring, grounding, and power distribution. Keep video signal and power wires as
far apart as possible, and use twisted or shielded cables to minimize interference.
3. Use a dedicated voltage regulator or an LC filter for your VTX and camera. This can help reduce noise
and stabilize the power supply, resulting in a cleaner video feed.
For more detailed information on how to fix FPV noise, please refer to these articles:
Adding extra low ESR capacitors to reduce noise in power: https://oscarliang.com/capacitors-mini-quad/
How to fix FPV noise – wiring, filter, and power: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-video-noise/
Avoid Contact between VTX Antenna Ground and Frame
Some drone frames feature a hole in the carbon fibre that allows you to mount the SMA antenna connector
directly to the frame. However, this creates contact between the antenna ground and the carbon fibre frame,
which is conductive. If any live wire touches the carbon fibre frame, it could potentially fry your VTX.
Additionally, this contact can cause noise to back-feed into the system, leading to a range of issues, including
VTX overheating due to increased resistance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the ins and outs of video transmitters is important for an optimal FPV
experience. This guide has covered essential aspects of video transmitters, including output power
considerations, channels and frequency, how to change VTX settings, and the best practices for proper use.
By following these guidelines and recommendations, you can make informed decisions when choosing and
setting up your video transmitter for both casual and professional flying. Ultimately, mastering the use of VTXs
will ensure a seamless and enjoyable FPV experience, allowing you to explore the skies with confidence and
precision.
Edit History
Apr 2016 – Article created
Apr 2017 – Article updated, added “digital FPV system”, “smart audio and telemetry feature”, “10 bands,
80 channels”
March 2018 – Article updated with info about antenna connectors, VTX Control, power and signal
connection
Oct 2019 – Updated info about connection
Dec 2022 – Updated section about output power
Apr 2023 – Article revisited, added product recommendations, shortened URL
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28 COMMENTS
OLEH REPLY
 11th July 2023 - 2:08 pm
Hello :-)
Why the model AKK FX2 Ultimative Mini is not recommended any more for analogue video
transmitters?
CHRIS REPLY
 1st February 2023 - 4:21 pm
Great Info
Thanks!
MARCO REPLY
 22nd October 2022 - 3:29 pm
Hi Oscar,
I live in the Netherlands, for a school project I have to make a kind of car with a camera on it. I was
thinking of going for an FPV camera. What VTX and camera can you recommend for a budget of
30 euros.
We use cookies on Iour
was also wondering
website to give you ifthe
there
mostisrelevant
a VTX experience
that can getbypower from 3.3v
remembering yourorpreferences
5v port of an
and repeat
arduino?


OSCAR REPLY
 22nd October 2022 - 4:53 pm
Not sure what sort of range you need, but for 200-300 meters range, this should be a
good option that fits your budget, it’s a camera + VTX combo:
https://banggood.com/Eachine-TX03-NTSC-Super-Mini-0-or-25mW-or-50mW-or-200mW-
Switchable-AIO-5_8G-72CH-VTX-600TVL-1-or-3-Cmos-FPV-Camera-p-1104884.html?
p=OY2106728901201408U4
Perhaps you want to use an external voltage regulator to power the camera / VTX as they
can draw up to 500mA of current or higher, and the Arduino probably can’t support that? A
5V 1A regulator should be enough.
MARCO REPLY
 2nd November 2022 - 9:44 pm
Hi Oscar,
Thanks for your reply.
Since the delivery time of the Eachine TX03 is quite long, I was thinking about the
Eachine TX06. I was also looking at the Wolfwhoop WT03? Which of these 2 do
you think would be the better choice?
I would like to play the video signal from the FPV camera on a phone or laptop
screen. I was therefore looking at the Eachine ROTG01 Pro UVC OTG 5.8G. Do
you happen to know whether this receiver is completely universal and that it
works with any 5.8 GHz FPV camera?
OSCAR REPLY
 3rd November 2022 - 12:08 am
The Wolfwhoop WT03 seems to have almost identical specs to the TX03,
should be fine. I like those two because they have circular polarized
antennas. Sorry i don’t have experience with those receivers.
MARCO
 3rd November 2022 - 9:33 pm
Hi Oscar,
I plan to go for the Wolfwhoop WT03. All I’m looking for now is a
battery. Is it possible to use a power bank that supplies 5V 1A?
or is it absolutely necessary to use a special drone battery?
Are there any batteries you can recommend?
Do not sell my personal information. OSCAR
 3rd November 2022 - 11:29 pm

5V 1A from a power bank should work fine as it states the

camera takes 3.3V-5.5V input.
NATARAJA REPLY
 23rd August 2022 - 8:31 pm
Which is the best offline simulator for practicing freestyle. I don’t get internet at home. So it will be
helpful.
Thank you.
OSCAR REPLY
 23rd August 2022 - 11:41 pm
you should be able to with any sim. For example if you play sims on Steam, just make
sure you enable offline mode in steam before going offline then you should be able to play
it even without internet.
CHAM REPLY
 12th March 2019 - 11:21 pm
Hi Oscar,
I’m planning to buy an Aomway commander v1.
But when selecting a transmitter and antenna if I buy a transmitter with duck antenna do I have to
change the antenna of the Aomway that originally comes which is a circular polarised antenna to a
duck antenna?
Or can I use this combination directly without changing anything?
OSCAR REPLY
 21st March 2019 - 7:04 pm
You can use this setup as it is, with a bit of signal loss.
Pairing linear polarized antenna and circular polarized antenna sees about 3dB of signal
loss. It’s not that bad for casual flying.
KRISTJAN REPLY
 13th September 2018 - 2:41 pm
“If you are new and not sure which one to choose, just go for SMA and stick to it as it’s a more
popular choice, for no obvious reason. Both connectors provide the same performance.”
Actuallyon
We use cookies SMA is a much
our website much
to give better
you connector
the most relevantthan RP-SMA.
experience The reason is
by remembering that
your it has the and
preferences pin on
repeat
the antenna side. The pin is the weakest failure point under stress so having the pin on the
antenna side which can be replaced cheaply instead of having the pin break on the very expensive
VTX, transmitter or googles. 
ULTIMATE
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 18th September 2018 - 5:57 pm
You have a good point, but I haven’t experienced what you said in my FPV career yet :)
ROBERTO REPLY
 1st August 2018 - 9:08 am
I just would like to thank you for your excellent work. The spreadsheet is very very very usefull in
order to choose VTX. It contains all info needed to decide.
Thank you so much for this and for all tour articles. ;-)
ABUTALIB REPLY
 25th May 2018 - 10:19 pm
Hi mr Oscar
always informative and educationtion
My question: if I connected two pagoda antennas to the same vtx via a splitter , so I got two
antennas on the quad, would this damage or help increase the transmission ?
Thanks
Abutalib
OSCAR REPLY
 27th May 2018 - 7:18 pm
I am not technical enough to answer that, but I guess the range might be reduced
because you are splitting the output power through 2 antennas.
MICHAEL GILLEN REPLY
 5th March 2018 - 6:35 pm
Another reason analog is used vs digital. When an analog signal gets weak it gets interference and
snow but the picture can still be seen and never freezes. When a digital signal gets too low there
are too many packet errors and the screen just freezes or goes blank. I’d much rather have an SD
signal that no matter how weak will still be broadcast and received than an HD digital one that just
suddenly freezes. When an analog TV signal is weak you could still make out the picture through
the snow, but in modern TV signals when it gets weak the picture just distorts and freezes.
MIKE
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences andREPLY
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visits. Byclicking “Accept”,
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Hi Oscar,

today I almost burned my quad. The insulation of the positive battery lead was cut by sharp edges
on my carbon frame. The copper wire got in contact with the carbon and because the VTX was
NOT insulated from the frame the result was a short circuit.
My VTX comes with a pigtail. The SMA-adapter is mounted to the frame with a screw/washer. Do
you have any idea how to insulate the SMA-adapter from the carbon frame?
Thanks for the great article, regards, Michael.
OSCAR REPLY
 28th February 2017 - 1:51 pm
you could put some coating on the antenna mount (CF part), or drill the hole bigger and
insert a 3D printed part in there?
Good question though this is something we all need to think about
GRUMPY FOOCHOW REPLY
 1st January 2017 - 12:58 pm
Hi Oscar, just started custom quad.. At the last bit you mention 600 mw if fly alone, why is that ?
AMIR REPLY
 10th November 2016 - 9:59 pm
You mention avoiding contact with the VTX ground and the carbon chassis. Those VTX with an
antenna extension often have threaded BNC connectors at the end of the extension. I typically use
a nut to mount them on to the frame. Is this not recommended?
AMIR REPLY
 10th November 2016 - 10:01 pm
An example of where the BNC is contacting the carbon frame.

https://oscarliang.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/FX796T-VTX-angled-antenna-
connector-mounting.jpg
OSCAR REPLY
 15th November 2016 - 6:06 pm
I try to avoid it if I can :) but if it makes the build much easier then that’s the risk you need
to take :)
visits. ByPIT
clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. REPLY
Do not sell my personal

 29th June 2016 -information.
9:40 am
CookieWhy didn’t
Settings you mentined
Accept theAll
Reject very popular and even cheaper

600mw VTX TS5828??
(new versions: TS5828S, TS5828L)

INDY REPLY
 29th June 2016 - 7:24 am
HI Oscar, and John,

Thanks for your blog,
In the FPV for a few months only I learned to get used to the low quality of the picture… I hope this
is something that might change in a near future…
I learned as well that spending 50$ on a vtx is not worth it… the quality won’t be better
unfortunately…
I’m still looking for the best vtx… Maybe I should try a station with more powerful receiver and dual
antennas…
The TS5823 comes in 40CH for 12$, it’s the TS5823S.
JON MALOUKIS REPLY
 28th June 2016 - 9:33 pm
Can you fly a 40 channel tx with a 32 channel rx?
OSCAR REPLY
 28th June 2016 - 9:44 pm
Yes you can, as long as you only use one of the 32 channels that matches the VRX on
your VTX.

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29/12/2023, 23:04 Choosing the Best VTX (Video Transmitter) for FPV Drones - The Ultimate Beginner Guide

imate Beginner Guide - Oscar Liang

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8. Understanding VTX Channels

10. Key Considerations for Analog VTX

11. Best Practices Using VTX

Analog vs Digital FPV Systems

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SMA and RP-SMA

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Higher Power for Extended Range

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Understanding VTX Channels

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Changing VTX Settings

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Connecting an Analog FPV Camera to a VTX

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Best Practices Using VTX

How to Avoid Noisy Video

To troubleshoot and prevent these issues, consider the following: