Radiomaster has launched loads of nice radios up to now, most of them have been stable, however every additionally got here with compromises. After spending time with the Radiomaster TX16S MK3, I really feel this radio isn’t any exception — it has clear strengths and some drawbacks. It is best to learn this assessment earlier than shopping for. Right here’s my hands-on tackle Radiomaster’s newest flagship EdgeTX radio, protecting its design, options, ergonomics, drawbacks, and who it’s for.
New to FPV? Study the fundamentals of radio transmitters and the way to decide on one on this newbie’s information: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/
The place to Purchase
Get the TX16S MK3 radio from these distributors:
MAX Version
Customary Version
The radio comes with the next equipment:
- Carry case
- 18650 battery tray
- 2× alternative shoulder panels
- USB-C cable
- Display protector
- 1.5mm hex wrench
- Low-tension gimbal springs
- 2× gimbal stick set screws
- Neck strap (lanyard)
- Stickers
- Guide
Ought to You Get the Customary or MAX Model?
There are two variations:
- TX16S MK3 (Customary)
- TX16S MK3 MAX (the one I’m reviewing right here)
When Radiomaster requested which model I wished to assessment, after all I selected the costlier mannequin, duh 🙂 However is that the model you can purchase? Let’s break down the variations first.
| TX16S MK3 Customary | TX16S MK3 MAX | |
| Worth | $199.99 | $269.99 |
| Coloration choices | Black, Clear Charcoal | Black, Crimson, Blue, Gold |
| Gimbal | V6 Corridor Gimbals | AG02 |
| Buttons | Plastic | Accented CNC Aluminium |
| Housing End | Plastic | Carbon Fibre Paint (on plastic housing) |
| Grip Pads | Rubber | Leather-based-like materials |
| Weight (no battery) | 813g | 864g |
Other than the gimbals, the “premium upgrades” are principally beauty. The core {hardware} — CPU, display screen, inner RF module, and antenna— is an identical between these fashions, that means options and efficiency are the identical. The Customary model can also be lighter, which is a pleasant bonus.
Nonetheless, in the event you’re set on the AG02 gimbals, the MAX model is definitely deal. Shopping for the AG02 individually prices extra, and also you’d have to put in them your self. With the MAX, you save about $20 and skip the trouble. The AG02 gimbals are among the many greatest within the enterprise — all CNC machined aluminum, premium really feel, and very clean. The V6 Corridor gimbals on the Customary model are extra primary, however nonetheless very succesful and greater than ok for many pilots.
You actually can’t go mistaken with both — it comes all the way down to funds and the way a lot you care about premium gimbals. If gimbals aren’t a precedence, the Customary model presents higher worth for positive.
Specs
- Coloration: Black / Crimson / Blue / Gold
- Enter Voltage: 6.6–8.4V DC
- Firmware: EdgeTX (requires 3.0.0 or increased)
- Constructed-in RF Module: ExpressLRS (2 × LR1121)
- Frequency: ISM 2.4GHz and Sub-G 900MHz
- Channels: As much as 16
- Gimbals: AG02 CNC Corridor sensor gimbals (MAX model)
- MicroSD Slot: Sure (SD card not included)
- Inner Storage: 4GB onboard flash
- Show: 5-inch IPS touchscreen (800 × 480)
- Battery Choices (Batteries not included):
- Two 3.7V 18650 Li-ion cells
- 21700 Li-ion 5000mAh battery
- 2S 7.4V 6200mAh LiPo
- Improve Technique: USB / EdgeTX Companion software program
- Module Bay: JR-compatible module bay
- Dimensions: 200 × 178 × 88mm
- Weight: 864g (MAX Model, with out battery)
Storage Case Is Not Protected
To my disappointment, one of many switches was damaged on arrival.
The TX16S MK3 doesn’t use gimbal or change protectors — it solely comes with some small foam padding contained in the storage case. The case itself could be very sturdy and hard, however clearly not sturdy sufficient to resist the abuse it acquired throughout transport.
So don’t throw the case round with the radio inside. Although the storage case appears to be like strong, the switches can nonetheless get broken.
It’s doable to switch damaged switches your self, however Radiomaster hasn’t launched alternative elements for this radio but, so I’m patiently ready.
New Design: Rounded Housing with a HUGE Energy Button
Coming from the unique TX16S and TX16S MK2, the TX16S MK3 seems like a redesign quite than simply an replace. The radio is slimmer in width and encompasses a carbon-fiber-style end (not actual carbon fibre, simply paint).
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: Unique TX16S
The massive energy button within the heart actually stands out. I suppose Radiomaster made it bigger in case you’ll be able to’t discover it 😀 Joke apart, I’m not a giant fan of this design selection — does it actually must be that large? After all, that’s subjective.
With the carbon-fiber-style end, it feels nearer to the TX15 than the earlier TX16S fashions. It’s nonetheless a full-size radio filled with switches, sustaining the “do-everything” nature that made the TX16 sequence well-liked with FPV pilots, RC aircraft flyers, automobile drivers, and boat customers.
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: TX15
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: TX15
The MAX model has premium leather-like grips with stitching and a high-end end.
The again deal with is plastic and foldable. It’s not CNC aluminum just like the MKII MAX— to not reduce prices, however as a result of Radiomaster truly built-in an antenna contained in the deal with.
There’s a JR module bay on the again for exterior RF modules if wanted. One caveat: in the event you use a cumbersome exterior module (like a big Crossfire module), it could stop the radio from sitting flat on a bench when the deal with is folded down. With normal-sized modules, it’s fantastic — simply one thing to pay attention to. That stated, most customers shall be completely pleased with the interior RF module, which may output as much as 1W on each 2.4GHz and 900MHz, making an exterior module pointless for a lot of pilots.
The battery charging port (USB-C) is situated beneath a rubber flap on prime. There are additionally coach port and headphone port.
The Largest Touchscreen I’ve Seen
Some of the noticeable upgrades is the 5-inch touchscreen. It’s considerably bigger than the screens on older TX16S radios — or any radios with shade touchscreens as a matter of truth.
Viewing angles are glorious. Even when tilted, the show stays readable, and it’s shiny sufficient to see outside. Contact enter is responsive with out being overly delicate. There’s additionally a built-in ambient mild sensor that robotically adjusts brightness, which is useful in the event you steadily fly each indoors and outside.
Personally I favor black-and-white screens as a result of I not often wanted shade screens. These shows are less complicated, do every thing I want, and eat much less energy, providing longer battery life.
Nonetheless, shade screens do have benefits. You possibly can personalize themes, use customized photos for various fashions, and run extra superior LUA scripts with graphics and visible layouts. The touchscreen additionally makes navigating menus extra intuitive.
One caveat: the MK3’s bigger display screen means some telemetry scripts may have updates to show accurately. Be certain your favourite scripts are supported earlier than shopping for.
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: GX12
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: GX12
Inner RF Module
The largest promoting level of the TX16S MK3 might be its ExpressLRS Gemini Xrossband functionality (Gemini-X). The built-in 1W ExpressLRS RF module is dual-band (2.4GHz + 900MHz), similar to the GX12. This makes it one of the crucial succesful radios out there by way of RF efficiency — maximizing vary, redundancy, interference resistance, and general hyperlink reliability.
What’s Gemini-X?
Gemini-X is just like customary Gemini mode, however as a substitute of transmitting packets on the identical band, it transmits concurrently on 2.4GHz and 900MHz. This offers extra redundancy and improved hyperlink robustness.
Right here’s an in depth rationalization of the variations: https://oscarliang.com/expresslrs-gemini/#Gemini-Xcrossband-Gemini-X
The place’s the Second Antenna?
You may surprise: Doesn’t Gemini use two antennas? Why do I solely see one?
Don’t be fooled by the only foldable antenna on prime — there’s truly a second antenna cleverly built-in into the again deal with of the radio.
Receiver Compatibility
To make use of Gemini X mode, you want receivers that assist Gemini X. Nonetheless, the TX16S MK3 additionally works completely with customary ExpressLRS receivers that don’t assist Gemini X.
Study extra about ELRS receivers and antenna modes right here: https://oscarliang.com/expresslrs-receivers/
Will There Be a 4-in-1 Model?
Many individuals ask whether or not there shall be a model with a 4in1 inner module. I’m not 100% sure, but it surely appears unlikely. Radiomaster hasn’t used 4in1 modules in most of their latest releases, and demand for multiprotocol modules is declining as extra pilots transfer to ExpressLRS.
Should you nonetheless want legacy protocol assist, you’ll be able to set up an exterior 4in1 module within the JR module bay.
Controls, Switches & Customized Buttons
Similar to earlier TX16S fashions, the MK3 comes with a LOT of switches — greater than sufficient for many pilots.
From left to proper:
- SF (2-position)
- SE (3-position)
- SA (3-position)
- SB (3-position)
- S1 (pot)
- S2 (pot)
- SC (3-position)
- SD (3-position)
- SG (3-position)
- SH (momentary)
Radiomaster moved the 2 sliders to the again (RS and LS), which I believe is a good design selection as a result of they’re simpler to entry. Each the pots and sliders have sturdy heart detents.
There are additionally 6 trim buttons, and they are often programmed as extra controls.
Don’t overlook the 6 customized buttons above the display screen. These have RGB LEDs backlights, and are absolutely programmable. In EdgeTX, you’ll be able to map them to channels, scripts, or capabilities, and even change LED colours per mannequin.
Further options embody:
- Constructed-in gyro (can be utilized for triggering switches, pan/tilt digicam gimbals, or telemetry callouts by merely tilting your radio)
- Microphone (for future growth)
- Haptic suggestions motor
This is likely one of the most customizable radios I’ve used by way of controls. Realistically, many FPV pilots received’t use most of those options and switches — I personally use solely 4–6 for FPV drones — however for fixed-wing pilots or superior setups, the additional controls would come in useful.
Shoulder change panel will be changed in the event you don’t like having the slider on the again.
Gimbals and LED Rings
Should you fly lots and have the funds, AG01 and AG02 are among the many greatest gimbals you will get. They’re extraordinarily clean, exact, and simple to regulate. Spring stress will be adjusted instantly on the gimbals — no must open the radio.
Additionally they embody RGB LED rings. Whereas they could sound flashy, they are often helpful. You need to use them for mannequin identification (show a distinct shade per mannequin), or program totally different colours based mostly on flight modes, switches, or radio standing utilizing Particular Features. And in the event you don’t like them, you’ll be able to merely flip them off.
Ergonomics
If I needed to guess, the TX16S MK3 feels prefer it was designed by somebody who’s a thumber (controls the sticks utilizing thumbs solely).
The TX16S MK3 feels extra pure for thumbers, however as a hybrid pincher, I don’t discover it essentially the most comfy radio to carry.
It shares an analogous concern with the TX15 — it’s backside heavy. The TX16S MK3 is even barely worse as a result of it’s the heaviest radio I’ve examined, approaching 1kg together with batteries.
When pinching, you usually maintain the radio close to the gimbals (higher half of the radio), and because the battery bay is situated within the decrease half of the radio, it feels further backside heavy. Over lengthy classes, your fingers could fatigue extra shortly. A neck strap is strongly beneficial, particularly in the event you pinch or hybrid pinch.
What’s pinching and thumbing? Try this information about holding the sticks: https://oscarliang.com/pinch-thumb-stick/
I journey on foot lots with my gear and generally fly for hours continuous, so I care about weight and steadiness. In that regard, there’s room for enchancment with the TX16S MK3. That stated, it is a highly effective, full-size radio filled with options, so some further weight is inevitable. Should you want all of the options and capabilities, consolation could also be a trade-off. Utilizing a neck strap considerably improves usability although.
One other small annoyance is the again deal with. When folded, it will get in the best way whereas utilizing the radio, and it’s important to push it away. It’s not a giant concern when flying outside whereas standing, however when sitting down and resting the radio in your lap, the unfolded deal with can really feel awkward.
Additionally think about hand dimension and dexterity. Massive radios are nice, however reaching inside switches comfortably can range from individual to individual. With my grip type (hybrid pinch), I didn’t discover any deal-breaking attain points. Nonetheless, pilots with smaller fingers could discover the switches a bit removed from the sticks in comparison with extra compact radios.
Another minor annoyance: when choosing up the radio from the perimeters, it’s simple to by chance press the MDL (mannequin) or SYS (system) buttons.
Processor Improve
Radiomaster upgraded the CPU to an STM32 H7, which is meant to offer smoother operation and sooner response. In observe, nonetheless, I didn’t discover a significant distinction in day-to-day use.
Reminiscence
The radio consists of 4GB of built-in storage and likewise has a microSD card slot in the event you want extra storage. For many customers, 4GB is greater than sufficient. However in the event you use a lot of audio recordsdata, photos, or scripts, the SD card possibility is de facto useful.
Tear Down & Inner Design
The radio is simple to disassemble — there are 2 screws beneath every grip and a couple of extra screws contained in the exterior module bay, 6 screws in complete.
The RF board is mounted on the again housing and linked to the principle board through a cable, which will be simply unplugged.
The RF module cooling design is spectacular. Along with a heatsink, there are airflow ducts and lively cooling to assist keep efficiency at excessive RF output ranges.
All switches and gimbals connect with the principle board through plugs, making alternative simple when wanted.
I just like the clear, modular PCB structure — it clearly makes the radio simpler to restore and keep.
There are two holes on the again housing coated with detachable plugs. I assume these are for mounting SMA connectors in the event you favor third celebration antennas.
There are additionally two screw holes on the underside. I’m guessing these are for future waist assist or tray-style equipment, just like what we’ve seen on the TX15.
Battery & Charging
The TX16S MK3 features a battery holder for 2 18650 Li-ion cells.
Notice: Batteries aren’t included. Each button-top and flat-top cells work. I like to recommend RadioMaster’s 18650 3200mAh cells: https://oscarliang.com/product-ykiv
The battery bay is massive (93 × 58 × 21mm) and might even match Radiomaster’s 6200mAh LiPo pack if you would like prolonged runtime: https://oscarliang.com/product-65gx
You possibly can cost the batteries contained in the radio through USB-C (10W). A built-in sensible battery administration circuit balances the 2 cells robotically. Totally charging two 18650 3200mAh cells from empty takes round 2.5 hours.
One small concern although, battery voltage reporting appears barely low out of the field, however you’ll be able to simply calibrate it in Radio Settings → {Hardware}.
Energy Consumption
Let’s check the present draw at totally different RF energy ranges, to find out how lengthy the battery lasts.
Gemini mode on, display screen brightness minimal.
| RF Energy | Present Draw |
| Inner RF module OFF | 0.32A (0.45A at max display screen brightness) |
| 10mW | 0.67A |
| 25mW | 0.75A |
| 50mW | 0.81A |
| 100mW | 0.90A |
| 250mW | 1.14A (fan kicks in therefore the present soar) |
| 500mW | 1.60A |
| 1W | 2.41A |
At 1W RF energy, two 18650 3200mAh cells ought to final roughly 80 minutes or much less. At 10mW, runtime can stretch to round 4.5 hours. Therefore, enabling dynamic energy in ExpressLRS LUA script is sensible if you would like good vary whereas maximizing battery life, particularly in the event you plan to fly greater than an hour.
FPV Simulator Assist
The USB-C port for charging can also be used for simulators, and the radio expenses whereas linked to your laptop— very handy. With low display screen brightness and the interior RF module turned off, you’ll be able to play FPV sims just about endlessly with out operating low on battery.
When plugged into a pc, the radio prompts you to pick a USB mode. Select Joystick, and it’s acknowledged instantly on the pc. I did must calibrate the gimbals within the recreation for the primary time, which is regular when utilizing a brand new radio.
Last Ideas: Who Ought to Purchase the TX16S MK3?
The TX16S MK3 presents:
- ExpressLRS Gemini X dual-band
- Large shade touchscreen
- Wonderful construct high quality
- Premium gimbals
- An enormous variety of controls
Nonetheless, it’s not for everybody.
First off, it’s a heavy radio, which impacts ergonomics. And a few options are merely overkill for lots of customers — for instance, the massive shade display screen, or Gemini X when customary 2.4GHz-only ELRS is already ample for many pilots (even for lengthy vary).
Alternate options to Think about
And in case your present radio works effectively, there’s actually no must improve.
However if you would like one of the crucial feature-packed transmitters out there right this moment — for FPV drones, planes, vehicles, or boats — the TX16S MK3 is arguably essentially the most succesful all-round radio in the marketplace proper now. Get it rom these distributors:
TX16S MK3 MAX
TX16S MK3 Customary