I have had mine for 2 weeks now. I like it. I use external ELRS and crossfire modules on it without issue. I like the design of the push up screen too!. Nice review and I am so glad for Ethos Suite. As far as all the BS going on..I'm 62 this year, I don't have time for the nonsense. I'm going to enjoy myself and buy what I want and use what I want. I fly all the major transmitters and have done so for the past 47 years. I hate to see this situation but quickly realize the folks talking crap are doing just that!
Thanks for all the work you put into your tutorial videos, it would be great if Frsky did this. I wish they could bring in a radio that does not need software updates, change their radios that all my old receivers don’t work on, then I bought the new Taranis 2019 and new receivers, only half would bind. Spoiled the hobby for me.
Thanks for your comments Nick. To be fair, I don’t think that any radio that you want to be reliable could ever not have any updates. In this day of complex firmware on transmitters, bug can always happen. And more likely, more features can be added and general improvements made. With ETHOS suite, the update process is quick and easy now. I don’t know why you’re having issues with your 2019 Taranis. All new FrSky receivers will be able to bind with that; with the exception of the new TANDEM and TWIN receivers. They require different hardware. You can check your transmitter against receivers here www.mrd-rc.com/tutorials-tools-and-testing/useful-tools/frsky-receiver-compatibility-tool/ If some haven’t bound which should have, it is likely firmware versions on the receiver that is the problem; assuming the RF firmware on the transmitter is up to date. Again, these firmware updates are important to ensure a well working system. But that is true of any transmitter company, not just FrSky.
i have the twin lite-s for 1 month now , i'm loving it , its what's you say like playstation controller , I've got more finger control , what i'm missing is the Bluetooth audio ( like on the x 20 s )
Cool Nathan. I can imagine the really small size is great for travelling, and light weights are always handy for carrying stuff up a slope. I just couldn't get on with it. This one I'm really enjoying. Compact, but not too small, for me personally anyway :)
Not long ago I had trouble with launch mode and then I armed the elevator didn’t move. We’ll come to find out when you set an idle throttle it moves very slowly. Just kinda of funny I’ve been scratching my head for weeks trying to fix something that wasn’t broken.
Awesome review as usual. Honestly right now it seems like you're the only game in town with detailed ETHOS how-tos and radio reviews and you do a great job. For this radio I'm guessing the answer is no but if you throw an external R9 in this can you run TANDEM? I have a lot of TD receivers and looking for a second/backup ETHOS radio to my X20S so it would have to do TD. This seems more for the quad crowd tho which makes sense.
Thanks Scott, I really appreciate those comments. Unfortunately not. TANDEM isn't just a case of running 2.4 with 900MHz. It is a much more interlinked protocol. This is why you can't run TANDEM on an X10S Express with R9 module. There is an external TWIN module, which can be used with other radios (X20, X18, EX, etc). So, maybe at some stage there could be an external TANDEM module? I can certainly ask.
Thank you for making this video. I have much respect for you putting in actual time using the radio before releasing the video review. I've been realizing that many typical reviewers haven't been putting in their due diligence with actually putting the product through an appropriate amount of uses. Also, very well done on putting out your view and opinion on the ELRS topic. It looks like I'll be keeping my older X-LIte with custom built internal ELRS RF board for my tiny whoops and quads. Do you know if ETHOS and this TWIN XLite will support all of the LUA scripts that OpenTX/EdgeTX does? My concern is to still be able to fly my DSMX micro planes and larger BNF's using an external multi protocol module and all of the nice LUA capabilities that come with the module.
Not all LUA scripts written for OpenTX will work on ETHOS. But there are already scripts for Crossfire, Ghost, Multi-protocol, and ELRS external modules.
Interesting design! I like it ! I like almost all recent FrSky radio designs tbh . IMHO they are miles further from Radiomaster or TBS. I had TBS Tango 2, but did not like for 2 reasons... 1, not very comfortable for me and 2. too small screen for me I still got my FrSKY x lite and its much more comfortable, than TBS Tango 2, but it also got small screen, so this one would be perfect if its confortable in my hands. Thanks for the review
Thanks RS. Yes, I could see this radio being a nice upgrade to the X Lite. Though it may be worth having a feel of it in a hobby store. Just to make sure it feels nice to you.
I totally agree you definitely get what you pay for-if anything I think Frsky are too cheap especially when you look at the competition. Radios that offer the same features (Jeti etc).. I didn't think I would appreciate the TWIN X-Lite S quite as much as I do because of the whole Xbox controller style look but I was flying with it at the weekend and it really is every bit as good as it looks, fantastic piece of gear, I've shown a number of people who are radiomaster-Converts (From Frsky) and they have all begrudgingly agreed that the new range golf radios is far better than the very dated and overpriced Radiomaster units which are selling for the same sort of money!
Yaapu has made ETHOS version of some of his LUA scripts. I know he has a version of his mapping widget. I'll be installing that soon. That LUA widget is awesome.
It's the same process as in this video. Just follow the ETHOS instructions. With the MX+, I'd just register the receiver, then perform an OTA firmware update. czcams.com/video/9tncdNDinFM/video.html
Thanks Mate, as always, Honest and thorough review, BTW, I wonder if the dial switches with “detent” can be swapped in, this feature is the only thing stopping a commit. I am an Ethos convert, as Futaba’s highest end is financially out of my domain.
Honestly, I don’t know. I’ve not taken this radio apart. But, I don’t imagine changing those dials would be simple. If something similar with a better detent could even be found. To be honest, all radios of this style that I’ve tried have never been good for those pots. Not like a traditional layout transmitter.
Hi, Where could I find the sd contents do download and put it on the (not regularly delivered) new sd card? I really did some research but didn‘t find how and where… Best, Mat
Hi Mat. There's no real SD card contents to download, like with OpenTX. If this is a radio that didn't come with an SD card; you'll just create the folders as you need them. If you want to move things like the sound files to the SD card. Copy the files from the radio's NAND storage to the SD card. Then update the storage location in the system > general menu. Finally, remove the old folder from the NAND storage. It may well be worth me making a video on how to do this, in the future. Or if there was an SD card in the radio. Just copy those files to the new SD card.
Only what had ben shared on social media. About $1000, out in the summer. TD + TW + ACCESS, all aluminium case, carbon faceplate, 6 trims, extra shoulder switches (they sound like notched sliders), first 999 will be individually numbered.
I did your set up video and spent all weekend trying to get this thing to bind. One thing I really couldn’t find information on setting up the SD card. I’ll try and search for SD card file and I can’t find one. But I have tried binding with the internal module, the external module 16 D8 LRS nothing will bind. Any ideas I’m regretting upgrading
You don’t need an SD card with this radio. It has internal storage. You can use one by choice for certain things. But unless you’re storing a lot of information. You don’t need one. There isn’t a file for the contents. You would just copy what you want from the NAND storage and put it on the SD card. Then in the system menu. Set those things to be using the SD card. D8 will not bind to the internal module. You would need to get an external XJT Lite module for that. It’s an old protocol. It’s illegal to sell new products that use it, due to its lack of LBT. D16 will work with the internal module. But the firmware on the receiver will need to be updated to the latest version for that receiver. Some older receivers can even use ACCESS firmware. Which is an improvement. Which LRS system are you trying to use?
Hi Darren, i had my X lite S since Xmas, and i didnt necessarily think i would like this style of radio but i love it! All the X18 images from air-RC are the same size, i use mine for FPV mainly but do have a model plane set up on it too. Mine is space grey but they do come in a raft of colours including the cardinal red the X18SE came in. I hope my friends sent you that to review as i did mean what i said in my email. 10/10 for another good honest review 👍👍 could probably get you definitive answer on the ELRS very easily if you wanted, also, I find it amusing that you share all the same radios I have, yet you prefer the Horus for fixed wing-are you running ETHOS or OTX on your Horus? Cheers, john
Hi John, sorry for the late reply. I’m really enjoying this radio too. I’m using it exclusively for quads at the moment. But the small size could also see it going up the slopes with me. The less carrying up there, the better 🤣 Yes, this was a review sample. I’m actually using the the X20S for regular fixed wing. The X10S Express I’m using for fixed wing FPV. I just really like how mine is set up. I use the 6-way rotary switch for flight modes (I’ve switched it’s position with SB). Everything is just where I like it. I’m using OpenTX on that radio. I may switch to EdgeTX if it ever gets to a stage where I think it’s worth the effort.
@@MrD yes I've got so many radios now I don't know what to do with them lol-I really like the tandem, radios, but at the same time i like the Horus and I would never get the money. I spent on it if I sold it today as it is barely a year old this one (I had one of the older X10S non-Access ones before). I know I should be using the 18se and 20S a lot more than I do, but old habits die hard-I did think about keeping OTX on the Horus however, I had range issues with v2.3.15 that cost me an aircraft-I went back to 2.3.14 and the range issue disappeared and it is not there at all with ethos, so I'm not sure of the issue-the range issue was with every model not any one in particular and all of my friends will tell you, I am super fussy with antenna placement (I'm usually at the field with Bruce -Xjet- and co through the summer like I was last weekend). Please feel free to contact me by email as you have my details now if there's ever anything I can do to help let me know👍 really enjoy watching your videos. They make everything very clear and easy to follow, especially with your little model aircraft that you use on the bench👌
Have you noticed that the TW receiver output (-100%) is much lower than some ESCs 0 input? Calibrating doesn't really work as the ESCs seem to turn on at 1150us PWM and the -100% for Frsky TW is
Well given that the Boxer case is just a clone of a Mambo. You’re more likely to see a screen like that on a RadioMaster. TBS do like to come up with their own designs.
Sold review! I've worn out two X-Lite S and am currently a year into a Pro. I would have bought a Twin by now but there are zero locations to mount my FRSky Skyvision. At least the X-lite's had the internal antenna mount I can screw a mount in. Sadly I see noting like that on the Twin. Why they did not just go ahead and make an HD version of the twin is beyond me. I'd already own one if they made it. I have to much metal in my left arm and hand not to mention bent and crooked fingers to deal with a box transmitter for anything but the odd ole fixed wing flights or I would have probably bough a X20 HD by now. Still kinda dumbfounded they did not make a Twin HD......
The TWIN X Lite currently doesn’t have any external antenna ports. There may not even be space inside for them, plus the extra HDZero circuitry. The X Lite is supposed to be small and light. It think making an HD version would make it bigger and not really fitting target. I don’t know how well the X20 HD is doing. Perhaps there isn’t as much market for it as first predicted. As I see most HDZero pilots with goggles now. They are extremely comfortable.
I did buy it.. but I need crossfire supported.. not the ppm solution.. I just hope it get implemented soon :) I wish I could speed up that process in some way.. The design of this tx is subliminal..
As I said, you can't really compare full size gimbals with these small gimbals. For it's size, it feels good to me. Yes, there is a strap ring around the power switch. To be honest, I only use it when it's muddy, and don't want to put the transmitter on the ground.
Thanks for the video, the new Xlite really does looks nice, but not for me... Design quirks like the power button under the screen, and basically unable ELRS (only because it's old and who knows how compatible if it was re-implememted)... plus I basically have enough radios already! 😂😂 One way to to validate Frsky on this is to simply open the radio up, and look at what is going on with the RF chipsets...
Yeah, there comes a point when you can have too many radios for sure. The power button under the screen is a little annoying. But you can use external ELRS modules with no problems, on the latest version. I have been flying with the "ELRS Compatible" implementation the last few weeks. And it works fine. But next I will update one of the receivers to 3.1 (I believe there are some problems with 3.2?) and use an external transmitter module. Just as a comparison. Both quads are currently behaving exactly the same as far as range goes. I don't think the RF chip will tell us much. There will be a LoRa capable chip in there. I'm pretty sure that part of the TWIN protocol also uses LoRa.
@Mr.D - Falling with style The RF chip has to be the same, it is the MCU driving it that is what Frsky says they reimplemented. You're probably thinking of ELRS 3.1, which was pulled a day after release, 3.1.1, and now 3.2 are fine. If I were to get this radio, I would expect to NOT have to put a module in it, else I might as well get a transmitter with a module bay (or one that has proper internal ELRS sipport)... it's the exact opposite of what you're trying to achieve with a compact radio.
Yes, using the radio is basically the same as the X20. It is closer to the X18 due to the screen size. But that just means that some aspects are spaced differently. For example, the outputs screen on the X20 has two columns of outputs. But on the X18 and TWIN X Lite, you have a single column.
For such a small gimbal, I think they feel pretty good. But they’re never going to feel the same as a full size gimbal. But they are a massive improvement over other small transmitters I’ve tried. Including the original X Lite, which did not feel good at all. One thing to note is that the X Lite has full CNC aluminium gimbals. Where as the X20 only has CNC face plates. You need to go to the X20S for a full CNC gimbal on that line. Ultimately, if you can. Try to get both transmitters in your hands and see how they feel. I can only give my thoughts.
I sure hope radio master can make something like this or just improve on the Zorro as I think it needs a redesign. I just don’t like frsky due to things they’ve done in past……
You're right that neither side has any evidence, but only one side is in a position to provide evidence. I think it's reasonable to draw an adverse inference against Frsky given the situation and given their reluctance to offer any sort of evidence to disprove the allegations.
I can understand their reluctance though. I can understand why they are now keeping their closed source documents and specifications under close control. What Jumper/RadioMaster did to FrSky is a big part of that. I think the only fair way, would be for an independent adjudicator to see both sets of code. No doubt this would need to be under an NDA to view the FrSky code.
I like the idea of bigger screens on gamepad-style controllers, but I think you're making a mistake buying an Frsky radio today. EdgeTX & ELRS are the way forward. It's time to get away from proprietary radios & protocols, there's no need for it anymore.
I disagree. I actually really don't like EdgeTX, now that they have changed the UI for touch screen. In fact, I still have OpenTX on my other transmitter. In all fairness, ETHOS works just as well as OpenTX. In some places it's better, others OpenTX still wins. But they both work very well. I have used ELRS. And for me, it works fine. But nothing that blew me away. I might stick with it on the quads I've installed it on. But for my fixed wing, I'm happy with Crossfire and R9. They both work very well. In fact, putting ELRS on my fixed wings would mean I have to completely change my transmitter models, due to an restriction that they impose. So that won't be happening. As for the whole open vs closed source. People are making out that one side is better than the other. But to me it's not that clean cut. I don't see any problem with proprietary systems. So long as they listen to their customers, and make the changes the customers would like to see. I've seen closed minded open source projects, and proprietary products where the customers are consulted and they work great.
This isn't the best radio I bought from Frsky. Quality isn't up to the price! The on of button underneath the screen, difficult to reach trim buttons. A broken plastic screw hole (screw doesn't come out), noisy plastic,... I would have liked an external antenna port. I'm getting critical RSSI and the failsafe was activated way too close for me. I'm flying a DLG the RX antennas are in the fuse and not well positioned I know. But with the xlite pro, I never had a failsafe kick in and I flew much further than this. (with external antenna). Ethos does make it a lot better but I don't think I will buy a spare.
Interesting Steven. Is that a carbon DLG? It's great to hear opinions from pilots of other disciplines. So hopefully other DLG pilots will find this helpful.
It sounds to me like your radio encountered some kind of impact damage at some point. That could have also damaged something related to your RF transmit/receive system.
@@The2xWhiskey I don't think so.I dont like the internal antenna's. I had à x10, xlite pro, and the x20. I used them with external antennas. Dlg and f5J gliders arent that good with 2,4gHz. So all I can send better/ stronger is a bonus. The small antenna on the xlite pro made a big difference. I fly high and far away with gliders. I went to frsky for the better range. To bad they removed the external antenna port on this transmitter.
I need to get back on this, I ordered the twin lite pro module to try and improve the connection through the external antennas. Although it Improved a little bit it was really bad! 45 dB at 60 meters. Had some failsaves so something had to go . I have reflashed the receivers (Rx4R) from Accest to accst and all my problems are gone (75 dB )! So the problem is not in the transmitter. It still is (f******g) access.
@@MrD There is an issue with ACCESS receivers and the Twin X-Lite. After troubleshooting with FrSky, providing graphs of RSSI/VFR values in range test mode (big differences), they admitted that they were able to replicate it. After awhile they came back that it is a hardware issue. They claim it is shadowing of the antennas underneath the LCD display. Twin receivers are much better but I suspect the overall distance of Twin is also reduced but with Twin increased range, It likely isn't as noticeable. Either not many people use them for long range stuff like gliders with ACCESS recievers, or they just didn't sell many of them for people to not be complaining about it. I still like the form factor and functionality of the radio though for DLG use and prefer it over the older X-Lite. I wouldn't want to give the Twin X-Lite S up because of that. I just use TW receivers only for gliders. ACCESS is still fine for helicopters and closer things on the Twin X-Lite for me so I use them on those. So while not the perfect radio, It is still a great fit for my needs. If I had a dozen gliders with ACCESS receivers though, I wouldn't get the Twin X-Lite (or S) unless you plan to replace all of them with TW receivers for gliders that need longer range. I am sure they don't have the shadowing issue with the new X20 Pro which also has Twin. I bet it has even more range for TW receivers.
@@MrD This exact same comment is popping up on several videos about FrSky transmitters. Seems like a fake account. I've been noticing the same thing with other products within the hobby. I have the sneaking suspicion that some companies use bots like this to post hatefull, critical and negative comments about their competetors products. I recently bought an Ankermake 3d printer and I started to notice that underneath every single video about that printer on youtube there were comments popping up that like this one were all identical and all placed by a few accounts. Since then I've noticed it with other products within the tech space and rc hobby as well. Something to be weary about.
Why? Have you tried ETHOS? A lot of people have “tried” it on their X10 and X12S transmitters, with the thought of going back. But never do. It has virtually every OpenTX has, but is easier to use. I’d recommend downloading the simulator have having a play.
Any ETHOS transmitter can work with an ELRS external module. I've used the HappyModel 2.4 ELRS TX on my radios to test it works. It works fine. Also, the modules are updated via ELRS configurator, so you can always use the latest version.
ETHOS is better. Radiomaster definitely is good at cloning... Jumper/RM got their start legit copying FrSky stuff and selling it as their own. The T16 was a QX7 with a color screen in a Futaba case.
FrSky, pushing their new protocols nobody wanted...Customers have long memories...I like my Zorro for hiking out, light, small with micro Crossfire module...😏😏😳🇬🇧
When do you get to determine what protocols people want. FrSky new protocols are advanced and innovative. Major drone companies like DJI, Autel, Parrot, Fimi, and Hubsan have been using dual band protocols for years. I guess if FrSky said 1+1= 2, that would be wrong, too.
@@markbutler7027 Yeah, well dual band radios make little sense to me...A complication which isn't required. People with too much money buy into this kind of thing..I'll keep my Crossfire link thanks...🤔😳😏🇬🇧
@@MrD Oh, don't get me wrong, FrSky were the darling company, until they arrogantly treated their loyal customers like dirt...Just my opinion, but I won't be alone thinking that...🤔😳🇬🇧
Man, GPL is so dated. I work in software development and if sth is GPL-licensed today, then well, it just doesn't exist. Sorry. The idea sounded cool, but prooved to be just progress stopper. And trying to separate open and closed source world. While we know we have and need both. I'm amazed to hear ELRS is GPL'd.
Oh come on. Love watching your content and I like Frsky and their products but they just gone and messed this up big time. (Steve's comments and lack of knowledge about the subject didn't help things either). The fact is even if Frsky made their own fork of ELRS and coded it from the ground up, they are still selling and marketing it as ELRS. That is at the very least misleading and I wonder if it's legal. It does not keep me from buying their products because I like their transmitters for a number of reasons. But with everything that happened with Frsky in the past I don't think this was a smart move.
Just one thing. They aren’t marketing the radio as having ELRS. They are marking it as ELRS compatible. It does work, so not misleading, and it is completely legal. I do agree that Steve messed up by making his posts in the ELRS group. It did open up a can of worms. But, if FrSky did code this from the ground up, they would not have forked ELRS at all. There would be no need. There is a full list of everyone who has forked ELRS on GitHub. I think that there was really no need to include the ELRS Compatible mode. It works with outdated versions of ELRS. Plus the external module integration works well. If they’d just stuck with that. There wouldn’t be any of this drama.
@@MrD Not really, they added the word compatible at a later point, probably because their lawyer told them it would be illegal otherwise. I honestly think it wasn't their intention to F*** this up. I mean why would you bother coding a fork of ELRS that has limited compatibility when your radio's are working fine with your own protocols and anyone who wants to can stick an ELRS module on the back. It just bothers me that they handled it the way they did. They should have issued a public apology and try to fix the communication between them and the ELRS dev-team. Instead they went completely silent (as usual). I think we can all agree that PR isn't their strong suit and that's putting it very lightly. Just think it's a shame because Frsky makes some very nice and innovative products but at points they seem completely out of touch with their customer-base.
The idea they completely rewrote ELRS is dubious they couldn't have wrote it without looking at and copying the majority of ELRS but, they've been a shady company for years so I expect nothing less. Also it's hard to not acknowledge this in a hobby that wouldn't exist without open source when someone is abusing that system whether they copied and re-wrote it themselves or not it's still a dick move.
This hobby would 100% exist without open source. Cost of entry would just be way higher, we'd all be on DJI style systems. That's not a good thing but just saying. FrSky also is no shadier than RM or Jumper who both copied FrSky hardware and sold it as their own. Jumper with the T16 motherboard (QX7) and RM getting forced to stop selling the R168 because it was literally a X8R down to actual FrSky X8R firmware shipping on it. I actually don't recall FrSky ever doing anything that flagrant.
@@scottyd035ntknow Frsky started out by cloning Futaba receivers, released a radio in a JR shell and stole SBUS from Futaba probably more I'm forgetting it's kind of ironic they'd go after others for similar things. That's not my problem with them though China is gonna China, my problem is mainly the inverter to break crossfire compatibility when they put out their R9M and then the whole unnecessary encryption basically just trying to lock you into their systems wherever they can, this ELRS BS is just the latest middle finger to the community. As for this hobby existing without open source I'm 100% of the belief DJI copied multwii code for their naza flight controllers or at the very least were heavily inspired by it and I don't think for a second they could have made something fly as good as modern betaflight without all the stuff the community has figured out, not to mention the market wouldn't have been there if hobbyists hadn't made multicopters in the first place. Alright sorry that was long AF haha I really hate Frsky almost as much as DJI and those convictions are only growing.
TBS is just as much to blame for the inverter as FrSky. None of that would have happened if Trappy hadn’t started threatening vendors. Also, the encryption doesn’t lock you in to their system. What a load of nonsense. The encryption is there to protect airborne packets and to try to stop their closed source protocols from being cloned. If you’re complaining about FrSky potentially cloning ELRS, but are happy with other entities cloning ACCST or ACCESS, neither if which are open source. Then there is a level of hypocrisy there. You can’t complain about one, but be totally fine with the other.
@@MrD Oh I don't like TBS either they do the same crap of saying screw open source in an attempt to get you locked into their systems. The whole encryption thing was just ridiculous because they removed backwards compatibility from their radios and only did because they didn't want people making compatible receivers which is literally how they got there start making futaba receivers so I find it very hypocritical and just scummy towards the community that supported them to get them where they are. Luckily most people seem to feel the same as me and their profits are taking a hit as people move towards more open source friendly companies like RM and jumper.
Sorry, but that is not true. ACCST v2 did not remove backwards compatibility from old radios. That was “information” spread, but it is not true at all. For example, on my old Taranis X9D Plus, I installed ACCST v2 and can still use D8 and LR12. It didn’t take anything away. People keep saying this, but none have tested it. Otherwise they would know that it wasn’t true. ACCESS was a new protocol, using new hardware. When that was released, it was illegal to bring to market new hardware that used D8 or LR12. The same happened with Spektrum. They couldn’t release new hardware with DSM2. So everything then came out with DSMX. Also, by making “compatible” receivers. You actually mean clone receivers. D8, LR12, D16, nor any of the newer protocols are open source. So once again, it seems to be ok for others to clone FrSky. But when FrSky are accused of cloning ELRS, all hell breaks loose.
Love the way you addressed the ELRS issue at the end.
Thanks, appreciate your honesty. 👍
Thank you for the Super Thanks Miha 👍🏻
I have had mine for 2 weeks now. I like it. I use external ELRS and crossfire modules on it without issue. I like the design of the push up screen too!. Nice review and I am so glad for Ethos Suite. As far as all the BS going on..I'm 62 this year, I don't have time for the nonsense. I'm going to enjoy myself and buy what I want and use what I want. I fly all the major transmitters and have done so for the past 47 years. I hate to see this situation but quickly realize the folks talking crap are doing just that!
So you can run the elrs lua no problem?
Yes, it works fine. I’ve used it with the full size HappyModel ELRS 2.4 TX.
That is the best attitude to have JD. Take everything based on its merits, and most of all enjoy yourself. Hope you have many amazing flights 👍🏻
@@RubyS.1 Works just fine. I got the Luas using Mr. D. Link on one of his recent videos. I'm running a Happy Model module.
@@RubyS.1 lol people want to hate and they dont even know what they hate
Thanks for all the work you put into your tutorial videos, it would be great if Frsky did this. I wish they could bring in a radio that does not need software updates, change their radios that all my old receivers don’t work on, then I bought the new Taranis 2019 and new receivers, only half would bind. Spoiled the hobby for me.
Thanks for your comments Nick.
To be fair, I don’t think that any radio that you want to be reliable could ever not have any updates. In this day of complex firmware on transmitters, bug can always happen. And more likely, more features can be added and general improvements made. With ETHOS suite, the update process is quick and easy now.
I don’t know why you’re having issues with your 2019 Taranis. All new FrSky receivers will be able to bind with that; with the exception of the new TANDEM and TWIN receivers. They require different hardware. You can check your transmitter against receivers here www.mrd-rc.com/tutorials-tools-and-testing/useful-tools/frsky-receiver-compatibility-tool/ If some haven’t bound which should have, it is likely firmware versions on the receiver that is the problem; assuming the RF firmware on the transmitter is up to date. Again, these firmware updates are important to ensure a well working system. But that is true of any transmitter company, not just FrSky.
i have the twin lite-s for 1 month now , i'm loving it , its what's you say like playstation controller , I've got more finger control , what i'm missing is the Bluetooth audio ( like on the x 20 s )
I was saying the original X Lite was like a PlayStation controller. But I find this one much better in the hands. Glad you're enjoying the radio.
My original x-lite is one of my favorite controllers for traveling with slope gliders as its super small and takes up almost no room in my backpack.
Cool Nathan. I can imagine the really small size is great for travelling, and light weights are always handy for carrying stuff up a slope. I just couldn't get on with it. This one I'm really enjoying. Compact, but not too small, for me personally anyway :)
@@MrD been really happy with the x20, thats my main now. But for hiking, just in case i find a spot to fly, the xlite is great.
Not long ago I had trouble with launch mode and then I armed the elevator didn’t move. We’ll come to find out when you set an idle throttle it moves very slowly. Just kinda of funny I’ve been scratching my head for weeks trying to fix something that wasn’t broken.
Awesome review as usual. Honestly right now it seems like you're the only game in town with detailed ETHOS how-tos and radio reviews and you do a great job. For this radio I'm guessing the answer is no but if you throw an external R9 in this can you run TANDEM? I have a lot of TD receivers and looking for a second/backup ETHOS radio to my X20S so it would have to do TD. This seems more for the quad crowd tho which makes sense.
Thanks Scott, I really appreciate those comments.
Unfortunately not. TANDEM isn't just a case of running 2.4 with 900MHz. It is a much more interlinked protocol. This is why you can't run TANDEM on an X10S Express with R9 module. There is an external TWIN module, which can be used with other radios (X20, X18, EX, etc). So, maybe at some stage there could be an external TANDEM module? I can certainly ask.
Thank you for making this video. I have much respect for you putting in actual time using the radio before releasing the video review. I've been realizing that many typical reviewers haven't been putting in their due diligence with actually putting the product through an appropriate amount of uses. Also, very well done on putting out your view and opinion on the ELRS topic. It looks like I'll be keeping my older X-LIte with custom built internal ELRS RF board for my tiny whoops and quads.
Do you know if ETHOS and this TWIN XLite will support all of the LUA scripts that OpenTX/EdgeTX does? My concern is to still be able to fly my DSMX micro planes and larger BNF's using an external multi protocol module and all of the nice LUA capabilities that come with the module.
Not all LUA scripts written for OpenTX will work on ETHOS. But there are already scripts for Crossfire, Ghost, Multi-protocol, and ELRS external modules.
SIR THANK YOU. For all you do Please forget the BS and keep doing what you Do it helps “Most of us”
Again Thanks
Thanks Paul 👍
Interesting design! I like it ! I like almost all recent FrSky radio designs tbh . IMHO they are miles further from Radiomaster or TBS.
I had TBS Tango 2, but did not like for 2 reasons... 1, not very comfortable for me and 2. too small screen for me
I still got my FrSKY x lite and its much more comfortable, than TBS Tango 2, but it also got small screen, so this one would be perfect if its confortable in my hands.
Thanks for the review
Thanks RS. Yes, I could see this radio being a nice upgrade to the X Lite. Though it may be worth having a feel of it in a hobby store. Just to make sure it feels nice to you.
I totally agree you definitely get what you pay for-if anything I think Frsky are too cheap especially when you look at the competition. Radios that offer the same features (Jeti etc).. I didn't think I would appreciate the TWIN X-Lite S quite as much as I do because of the whole Xbox controller style look but I was flying with it at the weekend and it really is every bit as good as it looks, fantastic piece of gear, I've shown a number of people who are radiomaster-Converts (From Frsky) and they have all begrudgingly agreed that the new range golf radios is far better than the very dated and overpriced Radiomaster units which are selling for the same sort of money!
Hey just a quick question I couldn't find elsewhere. Can you use the neck strap hook with the screen closed?
No, you can only use the strap with the screen open.
This hobby has more drama than my volleyball locker room. Really like that transmitter. Do telemetry luas like yappu work with ethos?
Yaapu has made ETHOS version of some of his LUA scripts. I know he has a version of his mapping widget. I'll be installing that soon. That LUA widget is awesome.
@@MrD looking forward to seeing that!
Thank you mister! You could show how to firmewave the FrSky MX+ receiver through this transmitter. Thanks.
It's the same process as in this video. Just follow the ETHOS instructions. With the MX+, I'd just register the receiver, then perform an OTA firmware update. czcams.com/video/9tncdNDinFM/video.html
Thanks Mate, as always, Honest and thorough review, BTW, I wonder if the dial switches with “detent” can be swapped in, this feature is the only thing stopping a commit. I am an Ethos convert, as Futaba’s highest end is financially out of my domain.
Honestly, I don’t know. I’ve not taken this radio apart. But, I don’t imagine changing those dials would be simple. If something similar with a better detent could even be found. To be honest, all radios of this style that I’ve tried have never been good for those pots. Not like a traditional layout transmitter.
Just a matter of time until someone extracts and decompiles the firmware.
Then we know weather there are some lines from ELRS or openTX inside.
Just picked up one of these for my kiddo, do you know if the springs are adjustable to stiffen the gimbals up?
To be honest. I've not taken the back off mine. But looking at photos of the gimbals, they appear to be adjustable.
I bought this Transmitter and I love it.... just......
Unfortunately there is no bluetooth audio compared to the x20s I also use.
Hi,
Where could I find the sd contents do download and put it on the (not regularly delivered) new sd card?
I really did some research but didn‘t find how and where…
Best,
Mat
Hi Mat. There's no real SD card contents to download, like with OpenTX.
If this is a radio that didn't come with an SD card; you'll just create the folders as you need them. If you want to move things like the sound files to the SD card. Copy the files from the radio's NAND storage to the SD card. Then update the storage location in the system > general menu. Finally, remove the old folder from the NAND storage. It may well be worth me making a video on how to do this, in the future.
Or if there was an SD card in the radio. Just copy those files to the new SD card.
Do you have any insight to the new X20 Pro? Thanks.
Only what had ben shared on social media. About $1000, out in the summer. TD + TW + ACCESS, all aluminium case, carbon faceplate, 6 trims, extra shoulder switches (they sound like notched sliders), first 999 will be individually numbered.
One note, the storage is specified in Gigabits, not Gigabytes, for some reason. The regular X-Lite has 128MB internally and the S has 512MB
I did your set up video and spent all weekend trying to get this thing to bind. One thing I really couldn’t find information on setting up the SD card. I’ll try and search for SD card file and I can’t find one. But I have tried binding with the internal module, the external module 16 D8 LRS nothing will bind. Any ideas I’m regretting upgrading
You don’t need an SD card with this radio. It has internal storage. You can use one by choice for certain things. But unless you’re storing a lot of information. You don’t need one. There isn’t a file for the contents. You would just copy what you want from the NAND storage and put it on the SD card. Then in the system menu. Set those things to be using the SD card.
D8 will not bind to the internal module. You would need to get an external XJT Lite module for that. It’s an old protocol. It’s illegal to sell new products that use it, due to its lack of LBT.
D16 will work with the internal module. But the firmware on the receiver will need to be updated to the latest version for that receiver. Some older receivers can even use ACCESS firmware. Which is an improvement.
Which LRS system are you trying to use?
Hi Darren, i had my X lite S since Xmas, and i didnt necessarily think i would like this style of radio but i love it! All the X18 images from air-RC are the same size, i use mine for FPV mainly but do have a model plane set up on it too. Mine is space grey but they do come in a raft of colours including the cardinal red the X18SE came in. I hope my friends sent you that to review as i did mean what i said in my email. 10/10 for another good honest review 👍👍 could probably get you definitive answer on the ELRS very easily if you wanted, also, I find it amusing that you share all the same radios I have, yet you prefer the Horus for fixed wing-are you running ETHOS or OTX on your Horus? Cheers, john
Hi John, sorry for the late reply. I’m really enjoying this radio too. I’m using it exclusively for quads at the moment. But the small size could also see it going up the slopes with me. The less carrying up there, the better 🤣
Yes, this was a review sample. I’m actually using the the X20S for regular fixed wing. The X10S Express I’m using for fixed wing FPV. I just really like how mine is set up. I use the 6-way rotary switch for flight modes (I’ve switched it’s position with SB). Everything is just where I like it. I’m using OpenTX on that radio. I may switch to EdgeTX if it ever gets to a stage where I think it’s worth the effort.
@@MrD yes I've got so many radios now I don't know what to do with them lol-I really like the tandem, radios, but at the same time i like the Horus and I would never get the money. I spent on it if I sold it today as it is barely a year old this one (I had one of the older X10S non-Access ones before). I know I should be using the 18se and 20S a lot more than I do, but old habits die hard-I did think about keeping OTX on the Horus however, I had range issues with v2.3.15 that cost me an aircraft-I went back to 2.3.14 and the range issue disappeared and it is not there at all with ethos, so I'm not sure of the issue-the range issue was with every model not any one in particular and all of my friends will tell you, I am super fussy with antenna placement (I'm usually at the field with Bruce -Xjet- and co through the summer like I was last weekend). Please feel free to contact me by email as you have my details now if there's ever anything I can do to help let me know👍 really enjoy watching your videos. They make everything very clear and easy to follow, especially with your little model aircraft that you use on the bench👌
I just got the navy blue Twin X-Lite S and the cover on the back is also navy blue and not black like yours. Maybe the initial versions didn't match.
Cool. I figured it was because mine was pre-production.
Have you noticed that the TW receiver output (-100%) is much lower than some ESCs 0 input? Calibrating doesn't really work as the ESCs seem to turn on at 1150us PWM and the -100% for Frsky TW is
I ordered twin x lite after watching the video.
I know twin x lite d16 is supported,
can x8r s6r v2 firmware receiver be used?
Yes. All ACCST receivers can be used if they have ACCST v2 firmware.
@@MrD ❤
Imagine a screen like this on a Mambo or a boxer!!
Well given that the Boxer case is just a clone of a Mambo. You’re more likely to see a screen like that on a RadioMaster. TBS do like to come up with their own designs.
Sold review! I've worn out two X-Lite S and am currently a year into a Pro. I would have bought a Twin by now but there are zero locations to mount my FRSky Skyvision. At least the X-lite's had the internal antenna mount I can screw a mount in. Sadly I see noting like that on the Twin. Why they did not just go ahead and make an HD version of the twin is beyond me. I'd already own one if they made it. I have to much metal in my left arm and hand not to mention bent and crooked fingers to deal with a box transmitter for anything but the odd ole fixed wing flights or I would have probably bough a X20 HD by now. Still kinda dumbfounded they did not make a Twin HD......
The TWIN X Lite currently doesn’t have any external antenna ports. There may not even be space inside for them, plus the extra HDZero circuitry. The X Lite is supposed to be small and light. It think making an HD version would make it bigger and not really fitting target. I don’t know how well the X20 HD is doing. Perhaps there isn’t as much market for it as first predicted. As I see most HDZero pilots with goggles now. They are extremely comfortable.
does it take analog video input?
No, it’s a transmitter. It doesn’t have any video systems integrated.
I did buy it.. but I need crossfire supported.. not the ppm solution.. I just hope it get implemented soon :) I wish I could speed up that process in some way.. The design of this tx is subliminal..
Crossfire is supposed …not PPM.
instagram.com/reel/Cm2hJwIgHeR/?igshid=MDJmNzVkMjY=
czcams.com/video/ClQQw2238q4/video.html
O meu quando desliga o rádio ele perde todos os modelos e configuração que fiz 😢 acredito que veio com defeito
Have you tried updating the firmware?
@@MrD já estão na última versão
hi how do you change from fcc to eulbt thanks
Just follow these instructions. But download the EU firmware czcams.com/video/l0Lt8aGCq1s/video.html
@@MrD thanks for the great videos and help
No problem 👍🏻
I understood it as a worse gimbal than the x20. Can I wear a leash?? There was a ring around the power button.
As I said, you can't really compare full size gimbals with these small gimbals. For it's size, it feels good to me. Yes, there is a strap ring around the power switch. To be honest, I only use it when it's muddy, and don't want to put the transmitter on the ground.
@@MrD I'm using Spectrum ix12 right now, but it must be disappointing??
@@user-gp4xd7xc5t what must be disappointing? Spektrum?
@@MrD The ix12 has a lot of problems, it boots slowly, it doesn't charge well, and it's heavy.
Thanks for the video, the new Xlite really does looks nice, but not for me... Design quirks like the power button under the screen, and basically unable ELRS (only because it's old and who knows how compatible if it was re-implememted)... plus I basically have enough radios already! 😂😂 One way to to validate Frsky on this is to simply open the radio up, and look at what is going on with the RF chipsets...
Yeah, there comes a point when you can have too many radios for sure. The power button under the screen is a little annoying. But you can use external ELRS modules with no problems, on the latest version. I have been flying with the "ELRS Compatible" implementation the last few weeks. And it works fine. But next I will update one of the receivers to 3.1 (I believe there are some problems with 3.2?) and use an external transmitter module. Just as a comparison. Both quads are currently behaving exactly the same as far as range goes. I don't think the RF chip will tell us much. There will be a LoRa capable chip in there. I'm pretty sure that part of the TWIN protocol also uses LoRa.
@Mr.D - Falling with style The RF chip has to be the same, it is the MCU driving it that is what Frsky says they reimplemented. You're probably thinking of ELRS 3.1, which was pulled a day after release, 3.1.1, and now 3.2 are fine. If I were to get this radio, I would expect to NOT have to put a module in it, else I might as well get a transmitter with a module bay (or one that has proper internal ELRS sipport)... it's the exact opposite of what you're trying to achieve with a compact radio.
Is the function the same as the x20?
Yes, using the radio is basically the same as the X20. It is closer to the X18 due to the screen size. But that just means that some aspects are spaced differently. For example, the outputs screen on the X20 has two columns of outputs. But on the X18 and TWIN X Lite, you have a single column.
@@MrD Is the gimbal feel the same or is the x20 better?
For such a small gimbal, I think they feel pretty good. But they’re never going to feel the same as a full size gimbal. But they are a massive improvement over other small transmitters I’ve tried. Including the original X Lite, which did not feel good at all. One thing to note is that the X Lite has full CNC aluminium gimbals. Where as the X20 only has CNC face plates. You need to go to the X20S for a full CNC gimbal on that line.
Ultimately, if you can. Try to get both transmitters in your hands and see how they feel. I can only give my thoughts.
@@MrD Thank you for the detailed answer. As for the comparison of twin x lite and x20, is the cnc full gimbal twin x lite good?
Looks like it is more suitable for thumbers, rather than pinchers ?
Yeah, I think thats fair. Though I’m a hybrid pincher, and have got used to it pretty quickly.
I sure hope radio master can make something like this or just improve on the Zorro as I think it needs a redesign. I just don’t like frsky due to things they’ve done in past……
What about the things RadioMaster have done? I guess they’re ok? Even though what they have done is just as bad.
You're right that neither side has any evidence, but only one side is in a position to provide evidence.
I think it's reasonable to draw an adverse inference against Frsky given the situation and given their reluctance to offer any sort of evidence to disprove the allegations.
I can understand their reluctance though. I can understand why they are now keeping their closed source documents and specifications under close control. What Jumper/RadioMaster did to FrSky is a big part of that.
I think the only fair way, would be for an independent adjudicator to see both sets of code. No doubt this would need to be under an NDA to view the FrSky code.
@@MrD that's a really good idea - yes I think that'd be a good way forward. If they were amenable to that I'd give them the benefit of the doubt.
I like the idea of bigger screens on gamepad-style controllers, but I think you're making a mistake buying an Frsky radio today. EdgeTX & ELRS are the way forward. It's time to get away from proprietary radios & protocols, there's no need for it anymore.
I disagree. I actually really don't like EdgeTX, now that they have changed the UI for touch screen. In fact, I still have OpenTX on my other transmitter. In all fairness, ETHOS works just as well as OpenTX. In some places it's better, others OpenTX still wins. But they both work very well.
I have used ELRS. And for me, it works fine. But nothing that blew me away. I might stick with it on the quads I've installed it on. But for my fixed wing, I'm happy with Crossfire and R9. They both work very well. In fact, putting ELRS on my fixed wings would mean I have to completely change my transmitter models, due to an restriction that they impose. So that won't be happening.
As for the whole open vs closed source. People are making out that one side is better than the other. But to me it's not that clean cut. I don't see any problem with proprietary systems. So long as they listen to their customers, and make the changes the customers would like to see. I've seen closed minded open source projects, and proprietary products where the customers are consulted and they work great.
This isn't the best radio I bought from Frsky. Quality isn't up to the price! The on of button underneath the screen, difficult to reach trim buttons. A broken plastic screw hole (screw doesn't come out), noisy plastic,... I would have liked an external antenna port. I'm getting critical RSSI and the failsafe was activated way too close for me. I'm flying a DLG the RX antennas are in the fuse and not well positioned I know. But with the xlite pro, I never had a failsafe kick in and I flew much further than this. (with external antenna). Ethos does make it a lot better but I don't think I will buy a spare.
Interesting Steven. Is that a carbon DLG? It's great to hear opinions from pilots of other disciplines. So hopefully other DLG pilots will find this helpful.
It sounds to me like your radio encountered some kind of impact damage at some point. That could have also damaged something related to your RF transmit/receive system.
@@The2xWhiskey I don't think so.I dont like the internal antenna's. I had à x10, xlite pro, and the x20. I used them with external antennas. Dlg and f5J gliders arent that good with 2,4gHz. So all I can send better/ stronger is a bonus. The small antenna on the xlite pro made a big difference. I fly high and far away with gliders. I went to frsky for the better range. To bad they removed the external antenna port on this transmitter.
I need to get back on this, I ordered the twin lite pro module to try and improve the connection through the external antennas. Although it Improved a little bit it was really bad! 45 dB at 60 meters. Had some failsaves so something had to go . I have reflashed the receivers (Rx4R) from Accest to accst and all my problems are gone (75 dB )! So the problem is not in the transmitter. It still is (f******g) access.
@@MrD There is an issue with ACCESS receivers and the Twin X-Lite. After troubleshooting with FrSky, providing graphs of RSSI/VFR values in range test mode (big differences), they admitted that they were able to replicate it. After awhile they came back that it is a hardware issue. They claim it is shadowing of the antennas underneath the LCD display. Twin receivers are much better but I suspect the overall distance of Twin is also reduced but with Twin increased range, It likely isn't as noticeable. Either not many people use them for long range stuff like gliders with ACCESS recievers, or they just didn't sell many of them for people to not be complaining about it.
I still like the form factor and functionality of the radio though for DLG use and prefer it over the older X-Lite. I wouldn't want to give the Twin X-Lite S up because of that. I just use TW receivers only for gliders. ACCESS is still fine for helicopters and closer things on the Twin X-Lite for me so I use them on those. So while not the perfect radio, It is still a great fit for my needs. If I had a dozen gliders with ACCESS receivers though, I wouldn't get the Twin X-Lite (or S) unless you plan to replace all of them with TW receivers for gliders that need longer range.
I am sure they don't have the shadowing issue with the new X20 Pro which also has Twin. I bet it has even more range for TW receivers.
Too bad Frsky shot themselves in the foot. I only bought Frsky at one point in time. I wonder how they feel about it now..
That depends on what you’re meaning. I can only think of one instance of that, which only effected Crossfire and two transmitters.
@@MrD This exact same comment is popping up on several videos about FrSky transmitters. Seems like a fake account. I've been noticing the same thing with other products within the hobby. I have the sneaking suspicion that some companies use bots like this to post hatefull, critical and negative comments about their competetors products. I recently bought an Ankermake 3d printer and I started to notice that underneath every single video about that printer on youtube there were comments popping up that like this one were all identical and all placed by a few accounts. Since then I've noticed it with other products within the tech space and rc hobby as well.
Something to be weary about.
i would buy this in a heartbeat...if it only was possible to put edgetx or opentx on it . i can only hope that radiomaster will clone this design.
Why? Have you tried ETHOS? A lot of people have “tried” it on their X10 and X12S transmitters, with the thought of going back. But never do. It has virtually every OpenTX has, but is easier to use. I’d recommend downloading the simulator have having a play.
@@MrD
Main reason is ELRS compatibility (I got the ranger. Wich can't run elrs 2+) I don't doubt the programming the devs did.
@@puntenpol Ethos can run elrs
Any ETHOS transmitter can work with an ELRS external module. I've used the HappyModel 2.4 ELRS TX on my radios to test it works. It works fine. Also, the modules are updated via ELRS configurator, so you can always use the latest version.
ETHOS is better. Radiomaster definitely is good at cloning... Jumper/RM got their start legit copying FrSky stuff and selling it as their own. The T16 was a QX7 with a color screen in a Futaba case.
FrSky, pushing their new protocols nobody wanted...Customers have long memories...I like my Zorro for hiking out, light, small with micro Crossfire module...😏😏😳🇬🇧
But seemingly selective memories.
When do you get to determine what protocols people want. FrSky new protocols are advanced and innovative. Major drone companies like DJI, Autel, Parrot, Fimi, and Hubsan have been using dual band protocols for years. I guess if FrSky said 1+1= 2, that would be wrong, too.
yeah, like Tracer and Ghost, oh wait.....
@@markbutler7027 Yeah, well dual band radios make little sense to me...A complication which isn't required. People with too much money buy into this kind of thing..I'll keep my Crossfire link thanks...🤔😳😏🇬🇧
@@MrD Oh, don't get me wrong, FrSky were the darling company, until they arrogantly treated their loyal customers like dirt...Just my opinion, but I won't be alone thinking that...🤔😳🇬🇧
Man, GPL is so dated. I work in software development and if sth is GPL-licensed today, then well, it just doesn't exist. Sorry. The idea sounded cool, but prooved to be just progress stopper. And trying to separate open and closed source world. While we know we have and need both. I'm amazed to hear ELRS is GPL'd.
Oh come on. Love watching your content and I like Frsky and their products but they just gone and messed this up big time. (Steve's comments and lack of knowledge about the subject didn't help things either). The fact is even if Frsky made their own fork of ELRS and coded it from the ground up, they are still selling and marketing it as ELRS. That is at the very least misleading and I wonder if it's legal.
It does not keep me from buying their products because I like their transmitters for a number of reasons. But with everything that happened with Frsky in the past I don't think this was a smart move.
Just one thing. They aren’t marketing the radio as having ELRS. They are marking it as ELRS compatible. It does work, so not misleading, and it is completely legal.
I do agree that Steve messed up by making his posts in the ELRS group. It did open up a can of worms. But, if FrSky did code this from the ground up, they would not have forked ELRS at all. There would be no need. There is a full list of everyone who has forked ELRS on GitHub.
I think that there was really no need to include the ELRS Compatible mode. It works with outdated versions of ELRS. Plus the external module integration works well. If they’d just stuck with that. There wouldn’t be any of this drama.
@@MrD Not really, they added the word compatible at a later point, probably because their lawyer told them it would be illegal otherwise.
I honestly think it wasn't their intention to F*** this up. I mean why would you bother coding a fork of ELRS that has limited compatibility when your radio's are working fine with your own protocols and anyone who wants to can stick an ELRS module on the back.
It just bothers me that they handled it the way they did. They should have issued a public apology and try to fix the communication between them and the ELRS dev-team. Instead they went completely silent (as usual). I think we can all agree that PR isn't their strong suit and that's putting it very lightly.
Just think it's a shame because Frsky makes some very nice and innovative products but at points they seem completely out of touch with their customer-base.
The idea they completely rewrote ELRS is dubious they couldn't have wrote it without looking at and copying the majority of ELRS but, they've been a shady company for years so I expect nothing less. Also it's hard to not acknowledge this in a hobby that wouldn't exist without open source when someone is abusing that system whether they copied and re-wrote it themselves or not it's still a dick move.
This hobby would 100% exist without open source. Cost of entry would just be way higher, we'd all be on DJI style systems. That's not a good thing but just saying. FrSky also is no shadier than RM or Jumper who both copied FrSky hardware and sold it as their own. Jumper with the T16 motherboard (QX7) and RM getting forced to stop selling the R168 because it was literally a X8R down to actual FrSky X8R firmware shipping on it. I actually don't recall FrSky ever doing anything that flagrant.
@@scottyd035ntknow Frsky started out by cloning Futaba receivers, released a radio in a JR shell and stole SBUS from Futaba probably more I'm forgetting it's kind of ironic they'd go after others for similar things. That's not my problem with them though China is gonna China, my problem is mainly the inverter to break crossfire compatibility when they put out their R9M and then the whole unnecessary encryption basically just trying to lock you into their systems wherever they can, this ELRS BS is just the latest middle finger to the community.
As for this hobby existing without open source I'm 100% of the belief DJI copied multwii code for their naza flight controllers or at the very least were heavily inspired by it and I don't think for a second they could have made something fly as good as modern betaflight without all the stuff the community has figured out, not to mention the market wouldn't have been there if hobbyists hadn't made multicopters in the first place.
Alright sorry that was long AF haha I really hate Frsky almost as much as DJI and those convictions are only growing.
TBS is just as much to blame for the inverter as FrSky. None of that would have happened if Trappy hadn’t started threatening vendors. Also, the encryption doesn’t lock you in to their system. What a load of nonsense. The encryption is there to protect airborne packets and to try to stop their closed source protocols from being cloned. If you’re complaining about FrSky potentially cloning ELRS, but are happy with other entities cloning ACCST or ACCESS, neither if which are open source. Then there is a level of hypocrisy there. You can’t complain about one, but be totally fine with the other.
@@MrD Oh I don't like TBS either they do the same crap of saying screw open source in an attempt to get you locked into their systems. The whole encryption thing was just ridiculous because they removed backwards compatibility from their radios and only did because they didn't want people making compatible receivers which is literally how they got there start making futaba receivers so I find it very hypocritical and just scummy towards the community that supported them to get them where they are. Luckily most people seem to feel the same as me and their profits are taking a hit as people move towards more open source friendly companies like RM and jumper.
Sorry, but that is not true. ACCST v2 did not remove backwards compatibility from old radios. That was “information” spread, but it is not true at all. For example, on my old Taranis X9D Plus, I installed ACCST v2 and can still use D8 and LR12. It didn’t take anything away. People keep saying this, but none have tested it. Otherwise they would know that it wasn’t true.
ACCESS was a new protocol, using new hardware. When that was released, it was illegal to bring to market new hardware that used D8 or LR12. The same happened with Spektrum. They couldn’t release new hardware with DSM2. So everything then came out with DSMX.
Also, by making “compatible” receivers. You actually mean clone receivers. D8, LR12, D16, nor any of the newer protocols are open source. So once again, it seems to be ok for others to clone FrSky. But when FrSky are accused of cloning ELRS, all hell breaks loose.
Looks cool but I'd never support frisky again. Really sad as my first real radios were fraky