Time for an Upgrade
After finishing the onboarding missions and my first free flights on the virtual campground, one thing became clear: The old, dusty Xbox controller had served its purpose.
It was good for the start. It proved to me that I wouldn’t quit immediately.
However, to get truly precise – and to avoid building the wrong muscle memory – it was time for “the real deal.” I needed a genuine FPV radio.
The Agony of Choice: What to Buy?
Anyone new to the FPV hobby gets overwhelmed by the choices. I dove into forums, YouTube reviews, and Discord servers.
As usual on the internet: Ask three people, get five opinions.
- “Get the Boxer, it has full-size gimbals!”
- “No, the TX16S is the gold standard!”
- “Nonsense, gamepad style like the Tango 2 is the future!”
The selection is huge, and everyone swears their favorite is the best. It is easy to fall into “analysis paralysis” here – the fear of buying the wrong thing, and therefore buying nothing at all.
The Decision: Radiomaster Zorro
Ultimately, I listened to my gut. I decided on the Radiomaster Zorro.
Why this specific model? Was it the right choice, or do I regret it? I will report on that in detail in a later post once I actually hold it in my hands and test it. For now, two factors mattered: The form factor (gamepad style, coming from the Xbox controller) and the budget.
Due to availability and price, I ordered directly from China.
The deal was good, but the catch was patience: 11 days delivery time.
Waiting is Not Resting
11 days can feel like an eternity when you are hyped for new toys. I had two options: Twiddle my thumbs and check tracking updates, or keep flying.
Consequently, I stayed in the simulator. With the Xbox controller in hand – knowing its days were numbered – I dedicated myself to the Intermediate Section in the DRL Simulator.
The tasks became more complex. Tighter turns, more precise altitude management, faster reactions. It wasn’t always easy, and I often realized how imprecise the gaming sticks must be compared to what I saw in videos. Nevertheless, I pushed through.
Conclusion: Ready for the Switch
By the time the tracking finally switched to “Out for Delivery,” I hadn’t just waited. I had completed the entire Intermediate Section.
I am still a beginner, but I am a beginner with training in my fingers. Now the mailman just needs to ring so I can see how much difference good hardware really makes.
