This Radiomaster Buying Guide sorts the lineup by use case and cost so readers can buy the right radio without gadgetitis. TL:DR — cheap simulator controllers exist, but for real flying choose a compact TX15 or a full-fat TX16S Mk3.
Quick picks — which RadioMaster to consider
T8L: Cheapest entry at about $40. Feels solid, fine gimbals for the price, 100 mW 2.4 GHz ExpressLRS, but limited configuration and only one model memory. Good for simulator work or as a hand-me-down.
Pocket: Compact real-world starter at ~$60–$70. Still 100 mW ExpressLRS with a folding external antenna, full EdgeTX config, and runs on two 18650 cells. Small screen and reduced range at high packet rates are the trade-offs.
Boxer: A step up in size and ergonomics. Offers full-size gimbals (AG01 option), modest switch count, and a conservative layout. A solid middleweight if the TX16S behemoth feels excessive.
TX15: Slimmer than the Boxer and ergonomically friendlier. Dual-band support (2.4 GHz and 900 MHz) at 1 W, color touchscreen, and AG02 metal gimbals. No diversity or Gemini, but it packs serious value for the size.
GX12: Compact with an embarrassment of switches, sliders, and momentaries. Dual-band, 1 W ExpressLRS with Gemini and diversity. Practical for pilots who actually use many channels rather than admire knobs.
Zoro: Small gamepad-style radio with top-tier AG01 micro gimbals and many switches. Critical flaw: tiny 18350 battery life—expect about two hours. Good performance but battery runtime limits long sessions.
TX16S Mark III: Flagship and largest option. One watt dual-band with Gemini and diversity, huge color touchscreen, digital speaker, metal AG02 gimbals in the Max version, and ample LEDs. If size does not matter, this is the most capable Radiomaster radio.
How to pick — match radio to flying style
If size and portability matter — go Pocket for the best balance of compactness and configuration. Zoro is compact but fragile in battery terms. Skip the T8L unless it will be a simulator-only spare.
Best all-round daily driver — the TX15 or Boxer. They fit in hands well, run 1 W ExpressLRS (TX15 offers 900 MHz), and support the switches most pilots actually use. These two are safe, long-term buys.
Best for long range — choose radios that support 900 MHz: TX16S Mk3, TX15, or GX12. TX16S and GX12 add Gemini and antenna diversity; TX15 supports dual-band but not Gemini. Gemini improves link resilience in contested RF.
Need many switches? — GX12 and TX16S have the most physical controls. GX12 gives compact switch density; TX16S offers the full-size experience plus mod-friendly antenna options.
Want the most capability — TX16S Mark III. It wins on features, expandability, gimbals, and ergonomics if the size is acceptable. It is the practical heir to radios that once cost far more.
Notable caveats and practical tips
ExpressLRS runs across the lineup, so the real differences are frequency bands, output power, and whether a model memory system exists. Radios with higher output and 900 MHz support suit long-range flights.
Many RadioMaster models let users swap gimbals or mod antennas. If long-range is the goal, favour radios with factory support for external antennas or straightforward mods.
FAQ
Does the T8L run EdgeTX and can it be configured fully?
The T8L uses a web-based configurator with basic features only: stick calibration, endpoint trim, switch remap, and stick mode. It lacks full EdgeTX menus and model memory, so advanced mixes and dual rates are not available.
What is Gemini and which radios support it?
Gemini transmits on 2.4 GHz and 900 MHz simultaneously to improve link reliability. The GX12 and TX16S Mk3 support Gemini with true diversity; TX15 has dual-band transmit but no Gemini or diversity.
Which RadioMaster has the best gimbals out of the box?
The AG02 metal gimbals on the TX15 and TX16S Max are the top stock option. The Zoro uses AG01 micro-gimbals, which are excellent for their size. GX12 and Boxer offer decent stock gimbals with upgrade paths.
Takeaways
- Radiomaster Buying Guide: T8L for cheap simulator use; Pocket for compact real flying; TX16S Mk3 for full capability.
- Choose 900 MHz radios for long range; prefer Gemini and diversity for contested RF environments.
- Zoro gives great gimbals and switches but expect short battery sessions unless you add external power.
- If unsure, pick the TX15 or Boxer — durable, configurable, and unlikely to be outgrown quickly.
This article was based from the video The Best RadioMaster For You Is ... // BUYER'S GUIDE 2026
