Evaluate: HelloRadio V14 Max – A Severe Challenger within the Crowded FPV Radio Market

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I not too long ago obtained my arms on the HelloRadio V14, and let me simply say—this radio actually shocked me. From its compact kind issue to the considerate ergonomic design, the V14 Max looks like HelloRadio’s first severe try and enter a market lengthy dominated by giants like RadioMaster and Jumper. May this develop into my new every day driver? Let’s dive in and discover out.

Study concerning the fundamentals of FPV radio controllers on this purchaser’s information: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/

The place to Purchase

You may order the HelloRadio V14 Max from AliExpress: https://s.click on.aliexpress.com/e/_oBjHhTv

Be aware: “V14” doesn’t consult with model 14 of the product. Fairly, it probably represents the variety of inputs on the radio. HelloRadio is a comparatively new model and has solely launched two fashions to this point—the V16 and V14. The V16 carefully resembles the Radiomaster TX16S, however features a few distinctive options.

There are 4 variations of the V14. The one I’m reviewing is the V14 MAX R9, the highest-end mannequin at present obtainable.

A number of colour choices can be found, however on the time I ordered, solely gray was in inventory—in any other case, I’d’ve gone for gentle pink 🙂

Specs

• Inner RF Module: ExpressLRS 2.4GHz 1W / 4in1 Multiprotocol 100mW (non-compulsory)
• Working Frequency: 2.400–2.480GHz
• Antenna: 2.4GHz 2dB Omnidirectional Folding Antenna
• Cooling Fan: Sure
• Energy Consumption: As much as 1.35W (varies by RF output)
• Enter Voltage: 6.6 – 8.4V DC
• Radio Firmware: EdgeTX
• Channels: Helps as much as 16 (receiver dependent)
• Battery Choices: 2S LiPo or 2x 18650 Li-ion (not included)
• Charging Technique: USB-C
• Show: 128×64 Monochrome OLED
• Gimbal Choices: V4.0 Corridor, V4.0 Metallic, or V5.0 RDC90 CNC Gimbals
• Stick Thread Dimension: 4mm
• Exterior RF Module: Commonplace JR Module Bay (Crossfire appropriate)
• Storage: 512MB MicroSD (EdgeTX reminiscence)
• Dimensions: 170 × 159 × 108 mm
• Weight (with out battery): 350g (claimed) / 567g (measured)

First Impressions and Design

Once I was making an attempt to purchase this radio, I couldn’t discover it in any North American or European RC retailers—it was solely obtainable on AliExpress from China. When it arrived, the voice language was set to Chinese language (you may change it to different language in Radio settings) , suggesting that HelloRadio could also be focusing totally on the home marketplace for now.

At first look, the HelloRadio V14 has a really related dimension and form to the Jumper T20S. This manner issue is at present my favourite—it delivers the identical management really feel and performance of a full-size radio just like the RadioMaster Boxer, however in a extra compact bundle that’s simpler to hold round.

And I used to be pleasantly shocked that it will probably stand upright on a desk out of the field—already a step up from the T20S, which required me to 3D print some toes simply to do that easy job 🙂

One good design contact is the RGB LED ring across the gimbals. By default, it adjustments colour primarily based on stick motion, which appears nice. In accordance with the guide, you may change lighting modes via a LUA script, nevertheless it doesn’t actually clarify the place that LUA script is and the way. Hopefully they may launch a bit extra data to make clear the steps sooner or later. The gimbal LED ring isn’t just for aesthetics both; the LEDs additionally function a battery stage indicator throughout charging, which is a considerate addition.

When utilizing a neck strap, the radio is sort of completely balanced. It additionally comes with a cloth deal with that attaches to the again utilizing 4 screws—a small however helpful accent.

The antenna shouldn’t be detachable, however it’s foldable, which helps with transport. It could additionally rotate 90 levels for optimum sign.

HelloRadio claims the burden of the V14 Max is 350g within the specs, however I don’t know how they got here up with that quantity—it’s nowhere near my measurements. In actuality, the burden is sort of similar to the Jumper T20S, at 567g with out batteries, or 660g with two 18650 cells put in.

Listed here are a couple of extra shut up of the radio:

The coach port and USB port for sim/information are situated on the highest.

Gimbals and Ergonomics

HelloRadio gives three gimbal choices for the V14:

• V4.0 Corridor
• V4.0 Metallic Gimbal
• V5.0 Sensor (RDC90 Metallic Gimbal)

I opted for the RDC90 model, because it’s the most costly and, in principle, ought to supply the very best efficiency out of the three. The gimbals have M4 threads and aftermarket stick ends are extensively obtainable. The inventory stick ends are similar to my favorite Radiomaster Sticky360 and I don’t assume they want changing.

Ergonomics and management really feel are extremely subjective, however general, I discover the V14 Max very comfy to carry, even for these lengthy flight periods. The radio has wonderful ergonomics—I actually haven’t any complaints in that regard. The rubber grips on the again have good contours and look nice, although the fabric feels a bit low cost and lacks the grippy, rubberized texture I personally desire. That stated, it’s not a deal-breaker—they nonetheless do the job.

The gimbals on the V14 Max are absolutely CNC-machined RDC90 aluminum gimbals. I’ve used RDC90s earlier than in a number of Jumper radios. For some motive, these producers are likely to hype these up, however actually, I don’t discover them significantly particular.

Don’t get me improper—these gimbals are clean and exact, however when in comparison with RadioMaster’s AG01 gimbals, they lack that ultra-premium really feel. It’s delicate and onerous to explain, however they only really feel barely cheaper within the hand. The stick journey on the RDC90s additionally appears to be a bit shorter—perhaps 10% much less primarily based on visible comparability (I didn’t measure it precisely). That stated, it’s actually solely noticeable when evaluating side-by-side. In-flight, the distinction is hardly noticeable.

One minor gripe: the gimbal pressure feels fairly comfortable, even at its tightest setting. Personally, I desire a barely stiffer really feel, so that you would possibly wish to contemplate swapping in stronger springs in the event you like extra resistance.

The trim buttons subsequent to the gimbals are customary two-way buttons—they work simply wonderful for trimming, however aren’t as versatile because the 5-way joystick trim buttons discovered on the Jumper T20S, which will be reprogrammed for different makes use of. That stated, trim buttons are not often utilized by most FPV pilots, together with myself. Until you’re flying fixed-wing planes or gliders with no flight controller, they’re largely pointless. So for many customers, it’s not an enormous deal.

Switches

The change structure on the V14 is sort of much like that of the RadioMaster Boxer, however the switches are totally different.

On the entrance:

• Two latching buttons situated on the far left and much proper corners (with backlit LEDs that activate/off primarily based on their state)
• Two 3-position switches positioned towards the middle

On the shoulders:

• One 2-position change on the highest left
• One momentary change on the highest proper

Different controls:

• Two rotary pots situated in the direction of the centre
• Six flight mode buttons with LED backlight situated above the show

Personally, I’m not an enormous fan of the latching buttons, particularly, the place they’re situated. To press them, I’ve to take my hand off the gimbals—not supreme throughout flight. I thought-about swapping them with the shoulder switches, permitting me to press them utilizing my center finger (or index in the event you’re a thumber), so I can preserve each arms on the sticks. Nonetheless, in that configuration, the stick-style switches could be positioned very near the gimbals, and so they might get in the way in which and will even be unintentionally flipped. That’s precisely why I rearranged the switches on my T20S—to maneuver the whole lot additional away from the gimbals.

For now, it’s most likely finest to depart the change structure as-is. Perhaps with a little bit of muscle reminiscence and observe, I’ll get used to it.

Show and Menu Management

The V14 Max incorporates a mid-size OLED display. The show dimension sits between the T20S and the Boxer, so in the event you discover the T20S display too small to learn comfortably, you’ll probably desire the V14 Max. The display has a yellow-tinted lighting, and brightness is adjustable, making it simple to learn in varied lighting circumstances.

Menu navigation is usually customary, with a couple of buttons that will probably be acquainted to EdgeTX customers:

• Return (RTN)
• Subsequent Web page (>PAGE)
• Earlier Web page (<PAGE)
• Telemetry (TELE)

Nonetheless, there’s one main distinction: a central “Enter” button situated proper in the course of all these buttons. This permits for single-handed menu navigation, which is sort of handy. In fact, the steel scroll wheel on the suitable nonetheless additionally capabilities as an Enter button when pressed.

Voice Instructions and Movement Management

HelloRadio is the primary RC producer to introduce voice command performance of their radios—what they consult with because the AI Assistant. This function first appeared of their earlier mannequin, the V16, and is now additionally obtainable within the newest V14 Professional and Max.

Much like Siri on iPhones, you may activate voice instructions by saying “Whats up Radio”, adopted by your command. Moreover, the V14 Max helps movement management, due to its built-in gyroscope and accelerometer sensors.

These options require particular LUA scripts to run, and whereas the guide supplies clear directions on easy methods to allow them, I gained’t go into an excessive amount of element right here.

Now, name me old-school, however whereas these options are undeniably fascinating, I do discover them a bit gimmicky—a minimum of of their present state. For starters, solely Chinese language voice instructions appear to work; English instructions don’t seem to do something. Hopefully, that is only a bug within the present firmware and will probably be resolved in future updates.

Additionally, talking a command takes longer than merely urgent a button, so for me personally, voice management isn’t very helpful. That stated, I respect the innovation. Options like these assist the V14 Max stand out in an more and more aggressive radio market. And for customers with accessibility wants, voice and movement management may very well be genuinely helpful.

Exterior Modules

The V14 Max comes with a built-in 1W ExpressLRS module but in addition helps exterior modules through an ordinary JR module bay on the again, making it appropriate with modules like TBS Crossfire or Radiomaster Nomad.

That is one space the place the V14 Max outshines the Jumper T20S. On the T20S, utilizing an exterior RF module requires putting in an adapter onto the rear heatsink, which is inconvenient and clunky. In distinction, the V14 Max has a ready-to-use module bay, making module swaps fast and simple.

That stated, one draw back: the plastic cowl for the module bay broke after eradicating it a couple of occasions. The plastic high quality doesn’t appear nice on this space, which is disappointing contemplating the remainder of the construct feels pretty strong.

Battery and Charging

You may energy the HelloRadio V14 Max with both a 2S LiPo battery or two 18650 Li-ion cells. Personally, I desire utilizing 18650 cells, and a battery holder is included. It matches button-top 18650 completely.

My present favourite 18650 battery for radios is the Molicel M35A, which I examined right here: https://oscarliang.com/best-18650-li-ion-battery/#Outcomes-and-Suggestions

The V14 additionally helps USB-C charging, permitting you to recharge the batteries contained in the radio instantly. It fees at as much as 10W, taking round 2–3 hours to completely cost empty 18650.

One small annoyance: the radio makes use of separate USB ports for charging and information. In contrast to Jumper’s radios, which mix each capabilities right into a single USB-C port, the V14 Max—like Radiomaster radios—has two separate ports. Which means that if you wish to cost whereas utilizing an FPV simulator, you’ll have to plug in two cables, which is a bit inconvenient.

Energy Consumption

Right here’s a breakdown of the present draw at totally different RF energy ranges (at 7.4V):

• RF turned off: 0.12A
• 25mW: 0.31A
• 50mW: 0.34A
• 100mW: 0.38A
• 250mW: 0.42A
• 500mW: 0.53A
• 1W: 0.70A

Utilizing a pair of Molicel M35A cells (with a measured capability of 3263mAh), you may anticipate:

• ~10 hours of runtime at 25mW
• Or, simply over 4 hours of runtime at 1W

To maximise battery life, you may allow Dynamic Energy within the ExpressLRS LUA script. This function robotically adjusts your RF output primarily based on sign power and hyperlink high quality, optimizes vitality utilization with out compromising hyperlink integrity.

FPV Simulator Help

The HelloRadio V14 Max works flawlessly with fashionable FPV simulators like TRYP and Liftoff. It’s plug and play—simply join it through USB, and it’s robotically acknowledged by the sim.

Setup is similar to most mainstream remotes, so that you’ll be up and flying very quickly.

Inner RF Module

The V14 Max incorporates a built-in 2.4GHz ExpressLRS RF module, preloaded with ELRS 3.5.3 firmware. The gadget goal is listed as “HelloRadio V14”, however as of now, it’s not but obtainable within the official ExpressLRS Configurator (v1.7.7). That stated, there’s no urgent have to flash it instantly—the preloaded firmware is pretty latest and will work simply wonderful. Hopefully, the official goal will probably be added in a future replace.

In case you’re new to ExpressLRS, try my detailed setup information: https://oscarliang.com/setup-expresslrs-2-4ghz/

Radio Firmware

The HelloRadio V14 Max comes preinstalled with EdgeTX, probably the most extensively used radio firmware within the FPV group. The firmware model is listed as “2.10.0-selfbuild”, and the firmware goal is edgetx-v14.

In contrast to many trendy radios which have phased out SD card utilization in favor of inside flash reminiscence, the V14 nonetheless makes use of a micro SD card, which is situated on the backside of the radio, subsequent to the USB charging port. There’s completely nothing improper with that, it’s absolutely practical. A 512MB generic (no-name model) card is included, and it appears to work simply wonderful.

Taking It Aside

To disassemble the V14, you’ll have to take away six hex screws from the again of the radio:

• 4 screws are instantly seen.
• Two extra screws are hidden beneath the rubber grips (one on both sides).

Whereas it’s simple sufficient to take aside, reassembling it’s extra irritating—particularly on account of these rubber grips, that are a little bit of a ache to reinstall correctly.

The inner construct high quality seems prime notch. All wiring makes use of versatile silicone cables, and the switches are linked through JST plugs, making them simple to exchange or disconnect. Even higher, the solder joints on the switches are protected with liquid tape for added sturdiness—nice consideration to element. General, the construct high quality is correct on par with Radiomaster—a welcome shock from a more recent model like HelloRadio.

What May Be Improved

• Use higher-quality, extra sturdy plastic – Some components, just like the module bay cowl, really feel fragile and break simply with repeated use.
• Swap structure and kinds – The position of sure switches (particularly the latching buttons) isn’t supreme for in-flight entry and may very well be rethought for higher ergonomics. Or enable customers to swap them round extra simply.
• Gimbal choices – The RDC90 gimbals are respectable, however don’t fairly match the texture and high quality of AG01. Undecided how troublesome it’s to improve to AG01, I shall look into that when I’ve time.
• Rear rubber grips – Whereas they give the impression of being good, they lack tackiness and are irritating to take away and reinstall—a difficulty in the event you ever have to disassemble the radio.
• Battery compartment – The battery holder tends to wiggle barely once you shake the radio; including a small piece of froth contained in the battery door would remedy this minor annoyance.

Last Ideas

I’ve at all times cherished radios on this kind issue—they ship almost the identical expertise and feature-set of full dimension radios, however in a extra compact, travel-friendly bundle.

The HelloRadio V14 Max isn’t good, nevertheless it’s a particular step up from the Jumper T20S in its out-of-the-box kind. Don’t get me improper—I really like the T20S. I’ve invested quite a lot of time modifying it, and it’s been my every day driver for the previous two years. However the V14 Max addresses lots of the small points I had with the T20S. That stated, there are nonetheless a couple of quirks. As an example, the latching button placement is awkward, and whereas the gimbals are respectable, they don’t fairly dwell as much as AG01 requirements—which might matter in the event you’re chasing that premium stick really feel.

Get the HelloRadio V14 from AliExpress: https://s.click on.aliexpress.com/e/_oBjHhTv

It’s clear HelloRadio has taken inspiration from Radiomaster and Jumper, with a number of acquainted design decisions. However this isn’t only a copy—they’ve added their very own twist, together with modern options equivalent to voice instructions, movement management, and RGB gimbal lighting. These is probably not game-changing, however they present a willingness to innovate, which is refreshing from a brand new model.

The HelloRadio V14 Max is a daring and spectacular transfer from a newcomer within the FPV radio house. In the event that they proceed to iterate and polish the design, they may develop into a severe competitor to established names like RadioMaster and Jumper.

In case you’re out there for a compact radio with wonderful construct high quality, strong ergonomics, and full-size gimbals, the V14 Max is completely price contemplating.