Evaluate: HelloRadio V14 Max – A Critical Challenger within the Crowded FPV Radio Market

I not too long ago bought my arms on the HelloRadio V14, and let me simply say—this radio actually stunned me. From its compact kind issue to the considerate ergonomic design, the V14 Max appears like HelloRadio’s first severe try to enter a market lengthy dominated by giants like RadioMaster and Jumper. May this change into my new day by day driver? Let’s dive in and discover out.

Study in regards to the fundamentals of FPV radio controllers on this purchaser’s information: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/

The place to Purchase

You may order the HelloRadio V14 Max from AliExpress: https://s.click on.aliexpress.com/e/_oBjHhTv

Observe: “V14” doesn’t discuss with model 14 of the product. Relatively, it possible represents the variety of inputs on the radio. HelloRadio is a comparatively new model and has solely launched two fashions thus far—the V16 and V14. The V16 intently resembles the Radiomaster TX16S, however features a few distinctive options.

There are 4 variations of the V14. The one I’m reviewing is the V14 MAX R9, the highest-end mannequin presently out there.

A number of colour choices can be found, however on the time I ordered, solely gray was in inventory—in any other case, I might’ve gone for mild pink 🙂

Specs

• Inside RF Module: ExpressLRS 2.4GHz 1W / 4in1 Multiprotocol 100mW (optionally available)
• Working Frequency: 2.400–2.480GHz
• Antenna: 2.4GHz 2dB Omnidirectional Folding Antenna
• Cooling Fan: Sure
• Energy Consumption: As much as 1.35W (varies by RF output)
• Enter Voltage: 6.6 – 8.4V DC
• Radio Firmware: EdgeTX
• Channels: Helps as much as 16 (receiver dependent)
• Battery Choices: 2S LiPo or 2x 18650 Li-ion (not included)
• Charging Technique: USB-C
• Show: 128×64 Monochrome OLED
• Gimbal Choices: V4.0 Corridor, V4.0 Metallic, or V5.0 RDC90 CNC Gimbals
• Stick Thread Dimension: 4mm
• Exterior RF Module: Normal JR Module Bay (Crossfire suitable)
• Storage: 512MB MicroSD (EdgeTX reminiscence)
• Dimensions: 170 × 159 × 108 mm
• Weight (with out battery): 350g (claimed) / 567g (measured)

First Impressions and Design

After I was making an attempt to purchase this radio, I couldn’t discover it in any North American or European RC retailers—it was solely out there on AliExpress from China. When it arrived, the voice language was set to Chinese language (you possibly can change it to different language in Radio settings) , suggesting that HelloRadio could also be focusing totally on the home marketplace for now.

At first look, the HelloRadio V14 has a really related measurement and form to the Jumper T20S. This manner issue is presently my favourite—it delivers the identical management really feel and performance of a full-size radio just like the RadioMaster Boxer, however in a extra compact package deal that’s simpler to hold round.

And I used to be pleasantly stunned that it might stand upright on a desk out of the field—already a step up from the T20S, which required me to 3D print some toes simply to do that easy activity 🙂

One good design contact is the RGB LED ring across the gimbals. By default, it modifications colour primarily based on stick motion, which seems nice. In response to the handbook, you possibly can change lighting modes by way of a LUA script, but it surely doesn’t actually clarify the place that LUA script is and the way. Hopefully they may launch a bit extra information to make clear the steps sooner or later. The gimbal LED ring isn’t just for aesthetics both; the LEDs additionally function a battery degree indicator throughout charging, which is a considerate addition.

When utilizing a neck strap, the radio is sort of completely balanced. It additionally comes with a material deal with that attaches to the again utilizing 4 screws—a small however useful accent.

The antenna just isn’t detachable, however it’s foldable, which helps with transport. It could possibly additionally rotate 90 levels for optimum sign.

HelloRadio claims the load of the V14 Max is 350g within the specs, however I do not know how they got here up with that quantity—it’s nowhere near my measurements. In actuality, the load is sort of similar to the Jumper T20S, at 567g with out batteries, or 660g with two 18650 cells put in.

Listed here are just a few extra shut up of the radio:

The coach port and USB port for sim/knowledge are positioned on the highest.

Gimbals and Ergonomics

HelloRadio provides three gimbal choices for the V14:

• V4.0 Corridor
• V4.0 Metallic Gimbal
• V5.0 Sensor (RDC90 Metallic Gimbal)

I opted for the RDC90 model, because it’s the most costly and, in concept, ought to supply the perfect efficiency out of the three. The gimbals have M4 threads and aftermarket stick ends are extensively out there. The inventory stick ends are similar to my favorite Radiomaster Sticky360 and I don’t assume they want changing.

Ergonomics and management really feel are extremely subjective, however total, I discover the V14 Max very comfy to carry, even for these lengthy flight periods. The radio has wonderful ergonomics—I actually haven’t any complaints in that regard. The rubber grips on the again have good contours and look nice, although the fabric feels a bit low cost and lacks the grippy, rubberized texture I personally favor. That mentioned, it’s not a deal-breaker—they nonetheless do the job.

The gimbals on the V14 Max are totally CNC-machined RDC90 aluminum gimbals. I’ve used RDC90s earlier than in a number of Jumper radios. For some purpose, these producers are likely to hype these up, however truthfully, I don’t discover them significantly particular.

Don’t get me incorrect—these gimbals are easy and exact, however when in comparison with RadioMaster’s AG01 gimbals, they lack that ultra-premium really feel. It’s delicate and exhausting to explain, however they only really feel barely cheaper within the hand. The stick journey on the RDC90s additionally appears to be a bit shorter—perhaps 10% much less primarily based on visible comparability (I didn’t measure it precisely). That mentioned, it’s actually solely noticeable when evaluating side-by-side. In-flight, the distinction is hardly noticeable.

One minor gripe: the gimbal rigidity feels fairly tender, even at its tightest setting. Personally, I favor a barely stiffer really feel, so that you may need to contemplate swapping in stronger springs should you like extra resistance.

The trim buttons subsequent to the gimbals are normal two-way buttons—they work simply positive for trimming, however aren’t as versatile because the 5-way joystick trim buttons discovered on the Jumper T20S, which could be reprogrammed for different makes use of. That mentioned, trim buttons are hardly ever utilized by most FPV pilots, together with myself. Until you’re flying fixed-wing planes or gliders with no flight controller, they’re largely pointless. So for many customers, it’s not a giant deal.

Switches

The change format on the V14 is sort of just like that of the RadioMaster Boxer, however the switches are completely different.

On the entrance:

• Two latching buttons positioned on the far left and much proper corners (with backlit LEDs that activate/off primarily based on their state)
• Two 3-position switches positioned towards the middle

On the shoulders:

• One 2-position change on the highest left
• One momentary change on the highest proper

Different controls:

• Two rotary pots positioned in direction of the centre
• Six flight mode buttons with LED backlight positioned above the show

Personally, I’m not an enormous fan of the latching buttons, particularly, the place they’re positioned. To press them, I’ve to take my hand off the gimbals—not best throughout flight. I thought of swapping them with the shoulder switches, permitting me to press them utilizing my center finger (or index should you’re a thumber), so I can maintain each arms on the sticks. Nonetheless, in that configuration, the stick-style switches can be positioned very near the gimbals, they usually may get in the way in which and should even be by accident flipped. That’s precisely why I rearranged the switches on my T20S—to maneuver the whole lot additional away from the gimbals.

For now, it’s in all probability greatest to depart the change format as-is. Possibly with a little bit of muscle reminiscence and apply, I’ll get used to it.

Show and Menu Management

The V14 Max contains a mid-size OLED display. The show measurement sits between the T20S and the Boxer, so should you discover the T20S display too small to learn comfortably, you’ll possible favor the V14 Max. The display has a yellow-tinted lighting, and brightness is adjustable, making it straightforward to learn in numerous lighting situations.

Menu navigation is generally normal, with just a few buttons that will probably be acquainted to EdgeTX customers:

• Return (RTN)
• Subsequent Web page (>PAGE)
• Earlier Web page (
• Telemetry (TELE)

Nonetheless, there’s one main distinction: a central “Enter” button positioned proper in the midst of all these buttons. This enables for single-handed menu navigation, which is sort of handy. In fact, the steel scroll wheel on the appropriate nonetheless additionally capabilities as an Enter button when pressed.

Voice Instructions and Movement Management

HelloRadio is the primary RC producer to introduce voice command performance of their radios—what they discuss with because the AI Assistant. This function first appeared of their earlier mannequin, the V16, and is now additionally out there within the newest V14 Professional and Max.

Just like Siri on iPhones, you possibly can activate voice instructions by saying “Howdy Radio”, adopted by your command. Moreover, the V14 Max helps movement management, because of its built-in gyroscope and accelerometer sensors.

These options require particular LUA scripts to run, and whereas the handbook offers clear directions on how you can allow them, I gained’t go into an excessive amount of element right here.

Now, name me old-school, however whereas these options are undeniably attention-grabbing, I do discover them a bit gimmicky—no less than of their present state. For starters, solely Chinese language voice instructions appear to work; English instructions don’t seem to do something. Hopefully, that is only a bug within the present firmware and will probably be resolved in future updates.

Additionally, talking a command takes longer than merely urgent a button, so for me personally, voice management isn’t very helpful. That mentioned, I recognize the innovation. Options like these assist the V14 Max stand out in an more and more aggressive radio market. And for customers with accessibility wants, voice and movement management might be genuinely useful.

Exterior Modules

The V14 Max comes with a built-in 1W ExpressLRS module but additionally helps exterior modules through a typical JR module bay on the again, making it suitable with modules like TBS Crossfire or Radiomaster Nomad.

That is one space the place the V14 Max outshines the Jumper T20S. On the T20S, utilizing an exterior RF module requires putting in an adapter onto the rear heatsink, which is inconvenient and clunky. In distinction, the V14 Max has a ready-to-use module bay, making module swaps fast and straightforward.

That mentioned, one draw back: the plastic cowl for the module bay broke after eradicating it just a few occasions. The plastic high quality doesn’t appear nice on this space, which is disappointing contemplating the remainder of the construct feels pretty stable.

Battery and Charging

You may energy the HelloRadio V14 Max with both a 2S LiPo battery or two 18650 Li-ion cells. Personally, I favor utilizing 18650 cells, and a battery holder is included. It matches button-top 18650 completely.

My present favourite 18650 battery for radios is the Molicel M35A, which I examined right here: https://oscarliang.com/best-18650-li-ion-battery/#Outcomes-and-Suggestions

The V14 additionally helps USB-C charging, permitting you to recharge the batteries contained in the radio straight. It expenses at as much as 10W, taking round 2–3 hours to completely cost empty 18650.

One small annoyance: the radio makes use of separate USB ports for charging and knowledge. Not like Jumper’s radios, which mix each capabilities right into a single USB-C port, the V14 Max—like Radiomaster radios—has two separate ports. Which means if you wish to cost whereas utilizing an FPV simulator, you’ll must plug in two cables, which is a bit inconvenient.

Energy Consumption

Right here’s a breakdown of the present draw at completely different RF energy ranges (at 7.4V):

• RF turned off: 0.12A
• 25mW: 0.31A
• 50mW: 0.34A
• 100mW: 0.38A
• 250mW: 0.42A
• 500mW: 0.53A
• 1W: 0.70A

Utilizing a pair of Molicel M35A cells (with a measured capability of 3263mAh), you possibly can count on:

• ~10 hours of runtime at 25mW
• Or, simply over 4 hours of runtime at 1W

To maximise battery life, you possibly can allow Dynamic Energy within the ExpressLRS LUA script. This function routinely adjusts your RF output primarily based on sign power and hyperlink high quality, optimizes power utilization with out compromising hyperlink integrity.

FPV Simulator Help

The HelloRadio V14 Max works flawlessly with widespread FPV simulators like TRYP and Liftoff. It’s plug and play—simply join it through USB, and it’s routinely acknowledged by the sim.

Setup is similar to most mainstream remotes, so that you’ll be up and flying very quickly.

Inside RF Module

The V14 Max contains a built-in 2.4GHz ExpressLRS RF module, preloaded with ELRS 3.5.3 firmware. The machine goal is listed as “HelloRadio V14”, however as of now, it’s not but out there within the official ExpressLRS Configurator (v1.7.7). That mentioned, there’s no urgent must flash it instantly—the preloaded firmware is pretty latest and will work simply positive. Hopefully, the official goal will probably be added in a future replace.

If you happen to’re new to ExpressLRS, take a look at my detailed setup information: https://oscarliang.com/setup-expresslrs-2-4ghz/

Radio Firmware

The HelloRadio V14 Max comes preinstalled with EdgeTX, essentially the most extensively used radio firmware within the FPV group. The firmware model is listed as “2.10.0-selfbuild”, and the firmware goal is edgetx-v14.

Not like many trendy radios which have phased out SD card utilization in favor of inner flash reminiscence, the V14 nonetheless makes use of a micro SD card, which is positioned on the backside of the radio, subsequent to the USB charging port. There’s completely nothing incorrect with that, it’s totally practical. A 512MB generic (no-name model) card is included, and it appears to work simply positive.

Taking It Aside

To disassemble the V14, you’ll must take away six hex screws from the again of the radio:

• 4 screws are straight seen.
• Two extra screws are hidden beneath the rubber grips (one on all sides).

Whereas it’s straightforward sufficient to take aside, reassembling it’s extra irritating—particularly as a consequence of these rubber grips, that are a little bit of a ache to reinstall correctly.

The interior construct high quality seems high notch. All wiring makes use of versatile silicone cables, and the switches are linked through JST plugs, making them straightforward to exchange or disconnect. Even higher, the solder joints on the switches are protected with liquid tape for added sturdiness—nice consideration to element. Total, the construct high quality is correct on par with Radiomaster—a welcome shock from a more moderen model like HelloRadio.

What May Be Improved

• Use higher-quality, extra sturdy plastic – Some elements, just like the module bay cowl, really feel fragile and break simply with repeated use.
• Change format and kinds – The position of sure switches (particularly the latching buttons) isn’t best for in-flight entry and might be rethought for higher ergonomics. Or permit customers to swap them round extra simply.
• Gimbal choices – The RDC90 gimbals are first rate, however don’t fairly match the texture and high quality of AG01. Undecided how troublesome it’s to improve to AG01, I shall look into that when I’ve time.
• Rear rubber grips – Whereas they give the impression of being good, they lack tackiness and are irritating to take away and reinstall—a problem should you ever must disassemble the radio.
• Battery compartment – The battery holder tends to wiggle barely if you shake the radio; including a small piece of froth contained in the battery door would remedy this minor annoyance.

Remaining Ideas

I’ve at all times beloved radios on this kind issue—they ship practically the identical expertise and feature-set of full measurement radios, however in a extra compact, travel-friendly package deal.

The HelloRadio V14 Max isn’t excellent, but it surely’s a particular step up from the Jumper T20S in its out-of-the-box kind. Don’t get me incorrect—I really like the T20S. I’ve invested numerous time modifying it, and it’s been my day by day driver for the previous two years. However the V14 Max addresses most of the small points I had with the T20S. That mentioned, there are nonetheless just a few quirks. As an illustration, the latching button placement is awkward, and whereas the gimbals are first rate, they don’t fairly reside as much as AG01 requirements—which may matter should you’re chasing that premium stick really feel.

Get the HelloRadio V14 from AliExpress: https://s.click on.aliexpress.com/e/_oBjHhTv

It’s clear HelloRadio has taken inspiration from Radiomaster and Jumper, with a number of acquainted design decisions. However this isn’t only a copy—they’ve added their very own twist, together with progressive options comparable to voice instructions, movement management, and RGB gimbal lighting. These might not be game-changing, however they present a willingness to innovate, which is refreshing from a brand new model.

The HelloRadio V14 Max is a daring and spectacular transfer from a newcomer within the FPV radio house. In the event that they proceed to iterate and polish the design, they may change into a severe competitor to established names like RadioMaster and Jumper.

If you happen to’re available in the market for a compact radio with wonderful construct high quality, stable ergonomics, and full-size gimbals, the V14 Max is completely value contemplating.