Radiomaster has launched a variety of nice radios up to now, most of them have been strong, however every additionally got here with compromises. After spending time with the Radiomaster TX16S MK3, I really feel this radio is not any exception — it has clear strengths and some drawbacks. It is best to learn this evaluate 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? Be taught 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
Normal Version
The radio comes with the next equipment:
- Carry case
- 18650 battery tray
- 2× alternative shoulder panels
- USB-C cable
- Display screen protector
- 1.5mm hex wrench
- Low-tension gimbal springs
- 2× gimbal stick set screws
- Neck strap (lanyard)
- Stickers
- Handbook
Ought to You Get the Normal or MAX Model?
There are two variations:
- TX16S MK3 (Normal)
- TX16S MK3 MAX (the one I’m reviewing right here)
When Radiomaster requested which model I needed to evaluate, 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 Normal | TX16S MK3 MAX | |
| Value | $199.99 | $269.99 |
| Coloration choices | Black, Clear Charcoal | Black, Pink, 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 |
Aside from the gimbals, the “premium upgrades” are principally beauty. The core {hardware} — CPU, display screen, inside RF module, and antenna— is equivalent between these fashions, that means options and efficiency are the identical. The Normal model can be lighter, which is a pleasant bonus.
Nonetheless, when you’re set on the AG02 gimbals, the MAX model is definitely a superb 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 effort. The AG02 gimbals are among the many finest within the enterprise — all CNC machined aluminum, premium really feel, and very easy. The V6 Corridor gimbals on the Normal model are extra primary, however nonetheless very succesful and greater than ok for many pilots.
You actually can’t go flawed with both — it comes right down to price range and the way a lot you care about premium gimbals. If gimbals aren’t a precedence, the Normal model gives higher worth for positive.
Specs
- Coloration: Black / Pink / 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)
- Inside 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 Secure
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 robust and hard, however clearly not robust sufficient to face up to the abuse it obtained throughout delivery.
So don’t throw the case round with the radio inside. Despite the fact that the storage case seems to be strong, the switches can nonetheless get broken.
It’s potential to switch damaged switches your self, however Radiomaster hasn’t launched alternative components 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 looks like a redesign somewhat than simply an replace. The radio is slimmer in width and contains 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 assume 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 alternative — does it actually should be that massive? In fact, 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 collection 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 really 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: when you use a cumbersome exterior module (like a big Crossfire module), it might stop the radio from sitting flat on a bench when the deal with is folded down. With normal-sized modules, it’s effective — simply one thing to pay attention to. That stated, most customers can be completely pleased with the inner 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 positioned below a rubber flap on high. There are additionally coach port and headphone port.
The Largest Touchscreen I’ve Seen
One of the noticeable upgrades is the 5-inch touchscreen. It’s considerably bigger than the screens on older TX16S radios — or any radios with coloration touchscreens as a matter of reality.
Viewing angles are glorious. Even when tilted, the show stays readable, and it’s vibrant sufficient to see open air. 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 when you steadily fly each indoors and open air.
Personally I choose black-and-white screens as a result of I hardly ever wanted coloration screens. These shows are less complicated, do every little thing I would like, and devour much less energy, providing longer battery life.
Nonetheless, coloration screens do have benefits. You’ll be able to personalize themes, use customized photographs 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 appropriately. Be certain your favourite scripts are supported earlier than shopping for.
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: GX12
Left: TX16S MK3; Proper: GX12
Inside 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), identical to the GX12. This makes it one of the crucial succesful radios obtainable when it comes to RF efficiency — maximizing vary, redundancy, interference resistance, and total hyperlink reliability.
What’s Gemini-X?
Gemini-X is just like customary Gemini mode, however as an alternative of transmitting packets on the identical band, it transmits concurrently on 2.4GHz and 900MHz. This gives extra redundancy and improved hyperlink robustness.
Right here’s an in depth clarification of the variations: https://oscarliang.com/expresslrs-gemini/#Gemini-Xcrossband-Gemini-X
The place’s the Second Antenna?
You would possibly marvel: Doesn’t Gemini use two antennas? Why do I solely see one?
Don’t be fooled by the only foldable antenna on high — there’s really 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.
Be taught 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 can be a model with a 4in1 inside 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.
For those who 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
Identical 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 feel is a superb design alternative as a result of they’re simpler to entry. Each the pots and sliders have robust heart detents.
There are additionally 6 trim buttons, and they are often programmed as extra controls.
Don’t neglect the 6 customized buttons above the display screen. These have RGB LEDs backlights, and are totally programmable. In EdgeTX, you’ll be able to map them to channels, scripts, or capabilities, and even change LED colours per mannequin.
Extra options embrace:
- Constructed-in gyro (can be utilized for triggering switches, pan/tilt digital camera gimbals, or telemetry callouts by merely tilting your radio)
- Microphone (for future enlargement)
- Haptic suggestions motor
This is among the most customizable radios I’ve used when it comes to controls. Realistically, many FPV pilots gained’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 might be changed when you don’t like having the slider on the again.
Gimbals and LED Rings
For those who fly lots and have the price range, AG01 and AG02 are among the many finest gimbals you will get. They’re extraordinarily easy, exact, and simple to regulate. Spring pressure might be adjusted straight on the gimbals — no have to open the radio.
In addition they embrace RGB LED rings. Whereas they may sound flashy, they are often helpful. You should use them for mannequin identification (show a distinct coloration per mannequin), or program totally different colours based mostly on flight modes, switches, or radio standing utilizing Particular Capabilities. And when 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 probably the most comfy radio to carry.
It shares an identical difficulty 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 positioned within the decrease half of the radio, it feels further backside heavy. Over lengthy periods, your palms could fatigue extra shortly. A neck strap is strongly really useful, particularly when you pinch or hybrid pinch.
What’s pinching and thumbing? Take a look at 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 stability. In that regard, there’s room for enchancment with the TX16S MK3. That stated, this can be a highly effective, full-size radio filled with options, so some further weight is inevitable. For those who 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 difficulty when flying open air whereas standing, however when sitting down and resting the radio in your lap, the unfolded deal with can really feel awkward.
Additionally take into account hand measurement and dexterity. Huge radios are nice, however reaching interior switches comfortably can differ from individual to individual. With my grip type (hybrid pinch), I didn’t discover any deal-breaking attain points. Nonetheless, pilots with smaller palms could discover the switches a bit removed from the sticks in comparison with extra compact radios.
Yet one more minor annoyance: when selecting up the radio from the edges, it’s straightforward to by accident press the MDL (mannequin) or SYS (system) buttons.
Processor Improve
Radiomaster upgraded the CPU to an STM32 H7, which is meant to supply smoother operation and sooner response. In apply, nevertheless, I didn’t discover a serious distinction in day-to-day use.
Reminiscence
The radio consists of 4GB of built-in storage and in addition has a microSD card slot when you want extra storage. For many customers, 4GB is greater than sufficient. However when you use a lot of audio information, photographs, or scripts, the SD card choice is basically useful.
Tear Down & Inside Design
The radio is simple to disassemble — there are 2 screws below every grip and a pair 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 might be simply unplugged.
The RF module cooling design is spectacular. Along with a heatsink, there are airflow ducts and lively cooling to assist preserve efficiency at excessive RF output ranges.
All switches and gimbals hook up with the principle board through plugs, making alternative easy when wanted.
I just like the clear, modular PCB format — it clearly makes the radio simpler to restore and preserve.
There are two holes on the again housing lined with detachable plugs. I assume these are for mounting SMA connectors when you choose third get together 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 will not be 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 need prolonged runtime: https://oscarliang.com/product-65gx
You’ll be able to cost the batteries contained in the radio through USB-C (10W). A built-in good battery administration circuit balances the 2 cells robotically. Totally charging two 18650 3200mAh cells from empty takes round 2.5 hours.
One small difficulty 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 take a look at 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 |
| Inside 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 leap) |
| 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 need good vary whereas maximizing battery life, particularly when you plan to fly greater than an hour.
FPV Simulator Assist
The USB-C port for charging can be used for simulators, and the radio fees whereas linked to your pc— very handy. With low display screen brightness and the inner RF module turned off, you’ll be able to play FPV sims nearly eternally with out working low on battery.
When plugged into a pc, the radio prompts you to pick out a USB mode. Select Joystick, and it’s acknowledged instantly on the pc. I did have to calibrate the gimbals within the sport for the primary time, which is regular when utilizing a brand new radio.
Remaining Ideas: Who Ought to Purchase the TX16S MK3?
The TX16S MK3 gives:
- ExpressLRS Gemini X dual-band
- Huge coloration 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 coloration display screen, or Gemini X when customary 2.4GHz-only ELRS is already enough for many pilots (even for lengthy vary).
Options to Take into account
And in case your present radio works effectively, there’s actually no have to improve.
However if you need one of the crucial feature-packed transmitters obtainable in the present day — for FPV drones, planes, automobiles, or boats — the TX16S MK3 is arguably probably the most succesful all-round radio in the marketplace proper now. Get it rom these distributors:
TX16S MK3 MAX
TX16S MK3 Normal
