Hisingy Stargazer RTF drone stands out as one of the most remarkable products among all indoor FPV RTF drones I have encountered. From its sleek exterior design to its precise positioning, as well as its impressive flight performance and the fascinating story behind its creation, I have great admiration and appreciation for this product.
However, it is important to acknowledge that while it has numerous strengths, it is not without its shortcomings. In this review, I will provide an overview of the pros and cons of this drone to give you a comprehensive understanding of its features and limitations.
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First of all, let me ask you a question – What do you think is the hardest part for beginners to get into FPV?
There are several key points to consider when entering the world of FPV drones.
First, acquiring the necessary theoretical knowledge can be challenging, as it involves learning various peripheral concepts before diving into the practical aspects.
Secondly, mastering the practical operation of FPV drones can be both difficult and potentially risky, especially for beginners who are unfamiliar with the controls and techniques involved.
Another significant factor is the high cost associated with getting started. The analog video transmistter system alone requires a substantial investment, ranging from $420 to $700 for a complete set of accessories.
In addition, venturing into the realm of HD video transmistter systems can cost around $1100, or even higher. which can be discouraging for many enthusiasts considering FPV.
Additionally, a lack of community communication and a lack of fellow enthusiasts to fly with can dampen the overall experience. Because FPV drones still exist within a relatively niche community, finding like-minded people to share the hobby with can be a challenge.
However, it is worth noting that the Stargazer FPV mini drone addresses several of these concerns with effective solutions. The team behind this product has obviously made a dedicated effort to overcome these obstacles, striving for excellence in every detail. While perfection may not be attainable, their commitment to delivering a quality FPV experience is certainly admirable.
HISINGY Stargazer RTF Drone Kit
Specifications
STARGAZER RTF
Propellers: 3B0101 45mm 17-3 Tri-Blade Propeller – 1mm Smoke Gray
Drone Batteries: 600mAh 3.8V 2.28Wh LiHV
Vertical Speed 1.5m/s (altItude assist mode)
Goggle Batteries: INR 18650 29V
Model: HISINGY Stargazer RTF
Working Temperature: 0℃-40℃
Dimensions: 110×118×45mm
Max Endurance: ~5min
Wind Resistance: 3m/s
App: HISINGY App
Wheelbase: 86mm
Frame Color: Gray
Charging: USB-C
Max Speed: 6m/s
Weight: 78g
ARX-500 FPV GOGGLES
Components/Design: Hisingy and Fat Shark
Working Temperature: 0℃-40℃
Dimensions: 121x164x85mm
Frequency: 5.658-5.917GHz
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Display: 4.3 inch
Endurance: 2hr
Weight: 345g
FOV:55°
TX-100 RADIO CONTROLLER
Frequency: 2.400-2.4835GHz
Dimensions: 111×152×64mm.
Endurance: 2hr
Weight: 280g
Range: 150m
ES600 FLIGHT BATTERY
Working Temperature: 5℃-40℃
Capacity: 600mAh, 2.28wh
Max Charging Power: 5W
Nominal Voltage: 3.8V
Discharge Rate: 40c
Max Voltage: 4.35V
Type: Li-HV 1S
Weight: 17.5g
ES600CH CHARGING HUB
Power Consumption: 30W
INPUT: 5V, 3A MAX
Ports: 4
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Impressive packaging and clear instructions.
- effortless setup.
- high-quality app.
- excellent self-stabilization.
- engaging gamification features, and comprehensive accessories included.
Cons:
- The price may be a deal killer.
- The goggles may not be comfortable for people with larger faces, especially around the nose, indicating a focus on younger pilots.
Unboxing
Package List
The Stargazer mini drone introduces a fresh perspective on packaging that sets a standard for future FPV drone manufacturers. Moving away from the minimalist approach, the packaging design is infused with technological aesthetics, featuring bold colors that exude a futuristic appeal.
Inside the box, you’ll find a quick start guide, which is especially helpful for beginners. In addition, by scanning a QR code, users can access a concise three-minute tutorial that provides a comprehensive overview of how to efficiently operate this mini drone, enabling a quick learning experience.
The storage bag reveals a collection of essential accessories, including the radio, drone unit, and goggles that form the core components of any FPV setup.
Beneath the first layer of packaging, you’ll find additional items such as four batteries, a built-in charger, a comprehensive manual, goggle headgear, data cables, and more.
The Radio
The radio features a sleek design reminiscent of an Xbox controller, and the overall material process reflects a clear DJI influence, as if their shadow is cast over it. Powered by an 18650 battery, it features large buttons for easy flight mode control.
The Goggles
The goggles continue the same design style with a playful and rounded shape that appeals to children. The power switch is located on the bottom, while the top button is used for menu adjustments.
In addition, there is a reserved expansion interface on the side for future customization with accessories for Wi-Fi image syncing with smartphones, although this feature is currently in final testing and not yet available.
At first, I thought that people with myopia would not be able to use these goggles. So I resorted to flying with my own DJI goggles.
However, as I delved deeper into understanding these goggles, I discovered a neat trick. By removing the translucent lens from the goggles, it became possible for nearsighted people to use the goggles directly without the need for additional glasses.This revelation opened up new possibilities for myopic people to enjoy the immersive experience firsthand.
The Drone unit
The mini drone unit is remarkably compact and fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. Its conceptual design incorporates various mathematical principles of stability, with the manufacturer exploring numerous options before settling on the final structure. This design aims to ensure optimal stability during flight and minimize potential damage to the drone.
The frame and main unit of the drone can be easily detached and secured with a six-point snap mechanism. It uses a brushless motor with internally imported super mini bearings from Japan, showcasing its advanced precision technology. By using brushless motors, the drone enjoys a longer lifespan and avoids performance degradation often associated with brushed motors.
The Props
The propellers have undergone a meticulous aerodynamic redesign that differs from conventional designs on the market. The team went the extra mile to improve range, minimize noise, and increase battery efficiency, resulting in an impressive flight endurance of approximately 5 minutes.
This endurance is on par with similar 1s tinywhoop drones, making it a competitive choice.
The FC And ESC、VTX
The flight control and ESC components are intelligently integrated into a single control board, along with a built-in barometer, gyroscope, and Bluetooth module. In addition, auxiliary LED strip lights are included for enhanced visibility. The gyroscope is a dedicated external setup, meticulously cushioned with custom shock-absorbing sponges to ensure accurate and stable data collection.
The entire aircraft utilizes a 5.8GHz video transmission solution, enabling near real-time image transmission when paired with compatible goggles, unlocking exciting FPV flight experiences. However, due to its compact size and use of a 1-second battery, the VTX performance is intentionally set at a lower level, with an estimated transmission distance of approximately 150 meters, according to the manufacturer.
Because it uses an analog VTX, the screen resolution may not be exceptionally high, reminiscent of the vintage TV experience of the 80s. In cases of weak signal reception, a snowflake-like pattern may appear as a signal warning, alerting the pilot to prepare to return.
The Battery
The battery for this drone is equipped with a circuit protection board that effectively prevents overcharging and overdischarging. This solves the common problem that 1s batteries in conventional FPV drones are not durable. Without the circuit protection board, the batteries are prone to overdischarge, causing them to bulge and become unusable.
The inclusion of this feature ensures the longevity and reliability of the battery, providing a more robust and safer power solution.
The Manual
I was also pleasantly surprised by the design of the manual. It surpasses other FPV brands with its comprehensive and detailed instructions. The manual is a comprehensive booklet with clear explanations in both English and Chinese. The attention to detail is commendable.
DIY stickers
Notice the included sticker? It allows you to customize the drone kits with your own DIY design, according to your personal preferences.
APP Experience
As a smart product that relies on the synergy of exceptional software and hardware, the Stargazer drone comes with its own app.
Unlike traditional FPV drones that rely on complex and obscure tuning software like Betaflight, this drone simplifies the process by offering a dedicated app for easy setup. With the app installed on your phone, you can effortlessly configure the drone without the need for extensive knowledge of theoretical principles.The app interface for this mini drone features a user-friendly graphical design that makes it easy to adjust various settings such as speed, control preferences (left or right hand), and overall flight feel according to the player’s needs.
In addition, the app incorporates fun gamification elements such as achievements, levels, and performance points. It also provides helpful tutorials, interactive features, and communication options.
With a redesigned closed-source flight control program, beginners can confidently take off without having to understand complex principles, making it an ideal choice for those new to flying.
Flying Experience
Once you have successfully bound the software to the drone, you can use the Charge Manager to fully charge all four batteries. With the batteries charged, you are now ready to take off and begin your flying adventure.
Just plug in the battery and the Stargazer will power up automatically. The flight controller, VTX, and camera will begin to function, and as soon as you put on the goggles, you’ll see the image being transmitted in real time.
If the remote control and airplane are successfully synchronized, you can initiate takeoff after completing the frequency setup.
The remote’s built-in vibration motor provides prompts for various modes, such as gear changes, out-of-control situations, and takeoff. This seamless interaction creates a friendly and integrated experience that makes you feel truly connected to your remote and your aircraft.
To start the motor, simply long press the start button and gently push the throttle to take off. The built-in barometer allows the flight controller to approximate the drone’s altitude based on barometric pressure, providing a degree of altitude stabilization.
It’s important to note, however, that this feature does not compare to DJI’s advanced capabilities. Due to its compact size, the drone does not have GPS functionality and can only maintain a relatively stable altitude indoors.
The initial speed is deliberately set at a moderate level, allowing beginners to gradually get used to the responsiveness of the joystick and master the flight dynamics of the drone.
Overall control of the drone is effortless, and considering my first experience with a tinywhoop three years ago, this mini drone offers a remarkable leap forward in terms of user experience.
With the first-person view and compact size, I can effortlessly navigate and launch in a variety of tight spaces. From squeezing through lamp gaps, to maneuvering between chair openings, to performing quick turns in the kitchen, my home becomes an exciting mini airfield. The challenge is immensely enjoyable because it doesn’t require the same expansive areas as larger 5-inch drones.
Of course, the occasional crash is inevitable, and I experienced several during my challenges. However, the drone remained resilient and showed no signs of damage or frame cracks. By simply reinserting the batteries, I was able to quickly resume flight without any adverse effects.
I also did an outdoor test. Initially, the speed adjustment was moderate, resulting in some instability during outdoor flights.
However, after adjusting the speed in the app, the performance improved slightly, allowing for smoother flights within the confines of the courtyard. Overall, I find the indoor flight experience to be more enjoyable and satisfying than outdoor flights.
By the way, if you do lose your drone, you can activate the rescue mode of the remote control, which will make the drone emit a beeping sound, making it easier to locate. However, it is important to note that due to its small size, it is advisable to avoid flying in areas with dense vegetation, as locating the drone after loss in such environments can be quite challenging.
Conclusion
Great efforts have been made to provide beginners with an excellent FPV experience through this mini drone.
The combination of application software and hardware lowers the learning threshold, while standardized production enhances pilot-friendly features. Design innovations such as modularity and blade protection reflect meticulousness.
However, the analog video transmitter reduces the user experience compared to HD transmitters. The $400 price is a deal killer when you consider R&D costs, tooling, and imported Japanese motors. If price is not an issue, this is an excellent beginner’s kit.
More Information
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Thanks for reading, and happy FPV traveling!