11 Best RC Gliders in 2021

Dromida Twin Explorer

E-flite U2980 UMX Radian BNF Airplane

VOLANTEXRC RC Glider Plane

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RC Gliders, also known as sailplanes, are radio-controlled aircraft that are able to stay in flight by making use of lift produced by thermals and slopes. RC gliders are made from different materials such as plastic, wood, or polymer foams. They also vary in size, weight, and length.

RC Gliders have a limited flight time. A pilot can keep their RC glider in the air for as long as they want as long as the conditions are favorable. RC gliders have two ways to gain altitude and retain it. They are

SLOPE SOARING: This happens when breeze slams into the face of a sloping land or cliff. When air hits a vertical surface, it has no choice but to go up. As long as the strength of the rising air is stronger than the sink rate of your glider, then it will stay in the air.

THERMAL SOARING: When the sun heats up the land, the air starts to get warm, then the warm air begins to rise, which allows cold air to replace it. The raising of warm air gives you a continuous current of rising air. As long as the sink rate of your gilder is lower than the rising rate, then your glider will be able to stay in the air.

Choosing a simple RC glider is excellent if you are a beginner. Most RC gliders for beginners are 2 to 3 channels which control the elevator and rudder, aileron and elevator, aileron and elevator or rudder.

If you require the best RC glider, then look no further! We are taking an in-depth look at RC gliders in this review, we will be looking at why they are accessible and what they can do. We have done our research and have chosen some of the best RC gliders available on the market. These RC gliders were picked based on their durability, features, quality, performance, and budget. Let us take a look at the list.

The Best RC Gliders Are Reviewed Below

1

Dromida Twin Explorer

The Dromida Twin Explorer is powered by electricity and comes with features that will increase your riding skills. It is excellent for beginners. To get it airborne, you just need a basic hand launch; it has dual motors that can take off with only a quick charge using its USB cable. This RC glider gives you 30 minutes of flying time with a large flying range, which achieves excellent performance. To enjoy playing with this RC glider, it is advised to use it in an open field that has no obstacles. It has features that allow it to glide, climb, dive turn, and accelerate. It is durable and will survive crashes.

Key Features:

  • Dual motors
  • Removable 1S Lithium Polymer battery
  • USB charger
  • Includes AA batteries
  • High-quality radio system

Specification:

  • Brand: Dromida
  • Model: Dromida Twin Explorer
  • Dimensions: 16.13 * 17.63 * 3.75 inches
Pros
  • It is made from durable foam which is resilient to crashes
  • It is affordable
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Includes dual motors which make it easy to maneuver
  • Ample flight time
  • Glides properly
Cons
  • Some users have complained about its propellers falling off regularly

2

E-flite U2980 UMX Radian BNF Airplane

The E-flite U2980 UMX Radian BNF features a three-channel remote control, which aids easy flight. It is compact and easy to store because of its contoured spinner and foldable propellers. It is constructed out of foam, which makes it lightweight and durable.

It features an AS3X stabilizer, which ensures the plane doesn’t get blown around by strong winds. This glider is incredibly responsive and allows you to fly in almost any condition. If you want this glider to perform better, then switch its 25C stock batteries for 30C batteries, and you will see its performance rate spike. It has an assembly time of 1 hour and a flight time of 8 to 10 minutes.

Key Features:

  • Built from molded foam which makes it lightweight
  • 3 channel remote control
  • 1S Li-Po battery
  • DSMX compatible transmitter
  • 1S 300mA Li-Po USB charger
  • Contoured spinner
  • Foldable propeller
  • Removable one-piece wing featuring carbon fiber support flite

Specification:

  • Brand: E-flite
  • Model: E-flite U2980 UMX Radian BNF Airplane
  • Dimensions: 31 * 10 * 4.3 inches
Pros
  • It is compact and lightweight
  • It is durable
  • It is affordable
  • It can withstand strong winds
Cons
  • Its tail is a bit weak

3

VOLANTEXRC RC Glider Plane

The VOLANTEXRC RC Glider Plane has an ultra-stable self-stabilization gyro system. A reliable motor system that allows the pilot to easily the plane to perform aerobatic stunts. It is excellent for beginners and pros; it has a 3 level flight controls assist with beginner level with a full assist, intermediate level with partial assistance, and expert level with manual control.

It features a 2.4GHz radio control with a transmission range of 656 ft. This RC glider can fly slowly without any power support thanks to its pusher glider design; this helps you save power, thereby increasing the flight time to about 30 minutes. It is comes assembled and only requires you to get batteries for the transmitter. It is portable and can be taken anywhere.

Key Features:

  • 3-level flight control assist
  • 2.4 GHz radio control
  • Ultra stable self-stabilizing gyro system
  • Over-grade motor system
  • RTF (Ready to fly)

Specification:

  • Brand: VOLANTEXRC
  • Model: VOLANTEXRC RC Glider Plane
  • Dimensions: 23.62 * 18.11 * 3.54 inches
Pros
  • It is compact
  • It comes ready to fly
  • It is made from durable foam
  • It comes with three modes of assist which makes it a great beginner glider
Cons
  • It can’t fly in winds over ten mph

4

GoolRC WLtoys XK X450 RC Airplane

The GoolRC XK X450 RC Airplane has three flight modes, which include vertical flight, horizontal 6G airplane flight, and multi-rotor flight; these modes makes it suitable for beginners. It also features a 6-axis gyro system with altitude hold and air pressure, which makes it ideal for different scenery. It is constructed from impact-resistant engineering EPO material and an in-built carbon fiber rod for reinforcement. It comes with an 11.1V Lithium polymer battery that has a flight time of about 15 minutes or more.

It has three 1307 3000KV brushless motors with high-efficiency blades and four steering servos used in controlling the front motor and aircraft’s rudder. It comes with a six-channel 2.4 GHz remote controller, an LED light, a 6G switch, and one key take-off and landing.

Key Features:

  • One key take off and landing
  • Six-channel 2.4 GHz remote controller
  • 11.1V Lithium polymer battery
  • 6-axis gyroscope
  • Three flight modes
  • Three 1307 3000KV brushless motors
  • Built from impact-resistant engineering EPO material

Specification:

  • Brand: GoolRC
  • Model: GoolRC WLtoys XK X450 RC Airplane
  • Dimensions: 20 * 19.1 * 5.1 inches
Pros
  • It is durable and impact resistant
  • It is easy to fly
Cons
  • Some users say its nit beginner-friendly

5

MAQLKC 2 in 1 RC Glider Plane

The MAQLKC 2 in 1 RC Glider Plane features altitude hold functions, one key take off and landing. These features make it easy for beginners and children to fly this glider. It also features a wide flight range and LED lights, which helps the pilot fly in low light areas. It has a 2.4 GHz remote controller with a transmission range of 100 meters and is constructed from high quality materials and flexible blades for durability and safety.

Key Features:

  • Altitude hold function
  • One key take off and landing
  • Wider flight range
  • 2.4 GHz remote controller
  • LED lights
  • Flexible blades

Specification:

  • Brand: MAQLKC
  • Model: MAQLKC 2 in 1 RC Glider Plane
  • Dimensions: 14.96 * 1.18 * 3.94 inches
Pros
  • It is safe for children to use
  • It is beginner-friendly
  • It features LED lights
  • It comes assembled
Cons
  • Its flexible wings might break easily

6

Upgrade RC Glider Airplane Eagle Foam RC Plane

This is an RC glider designed to look like an eagle. It has the appearance of an eagle soaring high in the sky. It is constructed from durable and lightweight EPP foam material, which prevents damage due to impact. It features a large wingspan of 1430mm and a sturdy rubber band wing mounting. It has four-channel radio control functions such as forward, backward, left, right, up, down, and rudder.

Key Features:

  • Scale biomimetic eagle design
  • Lightweight and durable EPP coating
  • Training aircraft
  • Large wingspan and rubber band wing mounting

Specification:

  • Brand: Viloga
  • Model: Upgrade RC Glider Airplane Eagle Foam RC Plane
  • Dimensions: 24.25 * 11 * 3.5 inches
Pros
  • It is lightweight
  • It is durable
  • It is great for children
Cons
  • It requires you to assemble it

7

Flyzone Calypso Brushless Glider

The Flyzone Calypso Brushless Glider comes with a kit that includes a brushless motor, glider, 18A ESC, 4channel radio, four micro servos, a propeller, Li-Po battery, and AA transmitter batteries. It is a great model for beginners.

The Flyzone Calypso Brushless Glider can fly straight up when in full throttle. It has an assembly time of 10 minutes; it provides the pilot with stable and long glides. It is lightweight so fly it in calm winds till you get used to its controls and how to maneuver it in strong winds without it crashing.

Key Features:

  • 11.1V 1300mAh 15C LiPo battery
  • Independent aileron servos
  • Four-channel 2.4 GHz SLT radio
  • 28 30 1300kV brushless outrunner motor
  • Two-piece wings that are easy to assemble and detach

Specification:

  • Brand: Flyzone
  • Model: Flyzone Calypso Brushless Glider
Pros
  • Posses great aerodynamics and visuals
  • It is durable
  • It is easy to assemble and operate
  • It flies incredibly well
  • It has a strong frame
Cons
  • It is a bit pricey especially if you’re working with a budget

8

Top Race Rc Plane

The Top Race Rc Plane comes ready to fly with a propeller saver tech for beginners. It is a 3-channel RC plane with a 6-axis gyro system and a three-mode digital radio control system (beginner, intermediate, and expert) with a 2.4GHz control remote for reaching heights of up to 320 feet. It is constructed from durable and lightweight EPP shock-resistant material, the control rods are made of steel and are attached to the servos, it is compact, which makes it convenient to carry around. It features a 3.7V 180mAh Li-Po battery and has a flight time of 15 minutes.

Key Features:

  • Propeller saver tech
  • 6-axis gyro system
  • 2.4GHz remote controller
  • Three modes radio control system
  • 3.7V 180mAh Li-Po battery

Specification:

  • Brand: Top Race
  • Model: Top Race Rc 3 Channel Remote Control Plane
  • Dimensions: 13.7 * 13 * 5.8 inches
Pros
  • It is durable and lightweight
  • It has three modes which make it great for beginners or pros
  • The propeller saver comes in handy
Cons
  • It can only fly in minimal winds

9

HAWK’S WORK 2 Channel RC Airplane

This RC plane comes ready to fly with an in-built self-stabilization gyro system. It is made from EPP construction material, which makes the plane durable and lightweight, its construction makes it great for children and beginners as it can withstand impact. It has a 2.4 GHz radio remote control system that has a transmission range of 100 meters. The controller controls the plane to move left, right, up, and down. The glider comes with two chargeable Li-Po batteries, extra propellers, wheels, and 3AA batteries for the remote controller. The producers perform a quality test before delivery and assure costumers of half a year free delivery of spare parts for faults caused by external forces. This is a self-explanatory glider, and kids can teach themselves how to operate the glider. It has a charging time of 40 to 60 minutes and a flight time of 20 minutes on both batteries.

Key Features:

  • In-built self-stabilization gyro system
  • Durable EPP build
  • 2.4GHz remote controller

Specification:

  • Brand: HAWK’S WORK
  • Model: HAWK’S WORK 2 Channel RC Airplane
  • Dimensions: 14.5 * 12.5 * 3.5 inches
Pros
  • It is lightweight and durable
  • It is self-explanatory
  • It can fly in winds of over 3 m/s
Cons
  • The landing gear is single-use

10

Volantex ASW28 759-1 2540mm Wingspan Durable EPO Foam Glider RC Airplane

The Volantex ASW28 759-1 Glider RC Airplane needs some final assembly; you are required to install the battery and receiver. It is constructed from the durable molded plastic fuselage, which makes its body streamlined, thereby reducing flight resistance. It features a long-lasting 4023 850KV brushless motor with a propeller. Its canopy or battery hatch can easily be removed. It has a straightforward mounting system, and it is easy to operate.

Key Features:

  • Built with EPO and plastic
  • 4023 850KV brushless motor
  • A wingspan of 2540mm or 100 inches

Specification:

  • Brand: Sorand
  • Model: Volantex ASW28 759-1 2540mm Wingspan Durable EPO Foam Glider RC Airplane
  • Dimensions: 100 * 44.57 * 7.87 inches
Pros
  • It is durable
  • Its streamlined body reduces flight resistance
  • It is easy to control
  • Its mounting system is straightforward
Cons
  • It requires some assembly
  • It doesn’t include a receiver

11

Top Race Remote Control Plane

This RC airplane comes ready to fly. It is a two-channel remote control plane that is great for kids and beginners; it features an electric powered high output motor, an advanced in-built gyro system for a stable flight, and sturdy airplane wheels for a smooth and safe landing. It uses a 2.4 GHz remote controller, which controls its functions to move up, down, left, right, lights, and its two-channel. It has a charge time of 20 minutes and a flight time of 12 minutes; the plane uses a 180mAh battery (included) while the transmitter uses 6 AA batteries (Not included). It comes with extra parts.

Key Features:

  • Two-channel remote control
  • 2.4 GHz remote controller
  • In-built gyro system
  • High power output motor
  • Plane wheels
  • 18-mAh battery

Specification:

  • Brand: Top Race
  • Model: TR-C185G RC Airplane
  • Dimensions: 9.13 * 8.98 * 5.12 inches
Pros
  • It is great for beginners
  • Manufacturers customer service is great
Cons
  • It is not durable

Buying Guide Questions

What are the best large RC sailplanes?

There are a lot of RC planes available in the markets; they all vary in size, and choosing one depends on your preference. Some of the best large RC sailplanes are the Volantex 742-5 Phoenix Evolution RC Glider, E-flite U2980 UMX Radian BNF Airplane, and so much more. If you want to take it down a notch and touch water, then check out radio controlled sailboats.

What is a Radian RC glider?

The Radian glider is a brand of the E-flite manufacturer. It doesn’t need a Hi-start or launch system; it has an in-built high power electric motor system and is constructed to be lightweight and gives you a flying experience like no other.

What is the best foam glider?

There are numerous planes constructed from Styrofoam; Styrofoam is used because it is lightweight and strong; it posses a compressive strength that basic foam doesn’t. Some of the best Styrofoam RC gliders are the volantex ASW28 RC Racing Glider, Phoenix Evolution RC Glider by Costzon, Timber 1.5m PNP with Floats, and others that have been listed in this review.

How does an RC flying wing glider work?

An RC glider is a radio-controlled aircraft that usually does not have any form of propulsion. They stay in the air by making use of the lift produced by thermals or slopes and are controlled remotely from the ground.

What is the largest RC glider?

The largest RC glider or plane in the world is the XXXL GB-ETA Glider. Other gliders are nearly as big as this plane.

What is the best micro RC glider?

As stated before, choosing the best plane depends on your preference. There are many micro drones available such as the Micro XXS Eta indoor powered glider and the Flyzone Micro Calypso.

Deciding which is the best depends on what features you prefer.

What is the best indoor powered glider?

One of the best indoors powered gliders available is the XXS Eta indoor powered glider. There are other indoor gliders with great features.

What is the difference between radio control and remote control?

A Remote control uses items such as infrared or anything with a wired connection, while a radio control uses radio frequencies to control a device. All radio-controlled devices are remote controlled, but not all remote-controlled devices are radio controlled.

Insider Tip: if you love air gliding, then you would certainly appreciate hovercrafts as well.

What is the difference between a plane and a glider?

A plane needs wings and an engine to operate, but a glider uses natural elements to work.

What does channel mean?

Channel can refer to the frequency channel used by your aircraft, and it can also mean the number of channels a model possesses. This is particularly important for longer range drones.

Conclusion

RC gliders are a lot of fun to play with but choosing the right one can be a hassle if you don’t know what to look for, there are a few things to consider before purchasing an RC glider, they are;

MATERIAL AND DURABILITY: Materials vary in their durability, but don’t say any material is trash, it is impossible to make a completely crash-resistant model but if you want one that can withstand most crashes then go for one made with glass fiber or carbon fiber. High-quality foam is also an excellent material for RC gliders, and they are more common. Another factor that determines a plane’s durability is the glue used.

DIFFICULTY OF ASSEMBLY: It is better if you choose an RC glider that is easy to assemble unless you desire a kit. Most models come ready to fly or almost ready to fly, the ones that need assembly usually comes with instructions and tools to assemble the plane. There are countless accessories you can use for gliders and for all types of drones as well.

EASE OF USE: Choose and RC glider that doesn’t have a lot of stunt features, especially if you’re a beginner. It is easier to learn if the controls are basic; when you become better at it, you can go ahead and purchase a more complex glider.

CHARGING AND FLYING TIME: Ensure you choose an RC glider that has sufficient flying time with appropriate charging time. Manufacturers usually state the flying time in minutes.

In this review, we have compiled a list of the best RC gliders and the features they possess, some frequently asked questions, and what to look for when purchasing an RC glider.