The Finest FPV Drone Simulators: Full Spherical-Up

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One of the crucial difficult features of entering into FPV drones is studying the best way to fly. FPV drone simulators assist you to follow and develop your abilities with out risking injury to your drone, even when the climate isn’t cooperating. On this article, we’ll discover all of the obtainable FPV drone simulators and make it easier to select the very best sim on your wants.

Should you’re new to FPV, try our complete information to FPV drones to get began: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-drone-guide/

What’s an FPV Drone Simulator?

Think about having the ability to fly an FPV drone in a vividly real looking digital world—that’s precisely what FPV drone simulators provide. These simulators aren’t simply video games; they’re subtle coaching instruments designed to intently mimic the expertise of flying an actual FPV drone. Whereas no simulator can completely replicate the joys of real-world flying, they arrive extremely shut, permitting pilots to sharpen their abilities and grasp freestyle tips in a protected, crash-proof atmosphere—whatever the climate—24/7.

Solely in simulators are you able to fearlessly try daring tips that really feel practically not possible in the true world! 😀

A Listing of FPV Simulators

For Computer systems:

What’s Steam?

Steam is a digital platform the place you should buy, play, and replace video games. It simplifies recreation administration and ensures your software program stays up to date with the most recent patches. Moreover, Steam provides a user-friendly return coverage, permitting refunds for video games performed for lower than two hours—splendid for testing a simulator to see if it meets your expectations or runs easily in your pc. Most FPV drone simulators can be found on Steam.

For Smartphones:

What You Have to Fly FPV Simulators

Earlier than selecting an FPV simulator, you’ll first want a correct radio controller.

Professional Tip: I don’t suggest utilizing gaming consoles (reminiscent of PlayStation or Xbox) or a keyboard, as abilities gained from these strategies hardly ever translate successfully to flying an actual FPV drone utilizing an precise radio controller.

Utilizing a correct radio controller helps construct muscle reminiscence and maximizes the advantages of your simulator coaching. Plus, you’ll proceed utilizing the identical radio when flying precise drones, making it a precious long-term funding.

On the lookout for radio suggestions? I’ve received you lined: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/#Radio-Suggestions

All radios really useful in my information are plug-and-play appropriate with the simulators mentioned on this web page—simply join by way of USB, and your radio will seem as a gaming joystick in your pc. It’s that easy.

When you’ve got a DJI Distant Controller (reminiscent of RC2 or RC3), it’s additionally completely high-quality for simulators – simply join it utilizing a USB cable.

VelociDrone

For these in search of probably the most genuine FPV drone flying expertise, VelociDrone stands out. Launched in 2016, it’s one of many oldest and most established simulators obtainable. Though its graphics are comparatively easy and considerably cartoonish, this implies it doesn’t require a high-end gaming PC to run easily.

Priced at $19.99, VelociDrone excels as a racing-focused simulator and boasts a robust racing neighborhood. It helps map modifying, provides a whole lot of user-created racing tracks, and includes a incredible “Nemesis” mode, which pits you towards different gamers’ greatest lap instances. In case your aim is to enhance your racing abilities with extremely real looking physics, VelociDrone is an unparalleled alternative.

Whereas VelociDrone can also be appropriate for freestyle follow, it doesn’t fairly match the leisure worth provided by freestyle-focused simulators that function higher graphics and extra various environments.

Drone choice and customization in VelociDrone are considerably restricted, and extra drone fashions require buying DLC packs (such because the Freestyle and Micro Drone DLCs).

Word that VelociDrone isn’t obtainable on Steam. For non-gamers, this generally is a profit, as you gained’t have to cope with the gaming platform. Nevertheless, for normal Steam customers, it’d really feel inconvenient, as managing updates for the simulator can require further effort.

Liftoff

Launched in 2018, Liftoff stays among the finest all-around FPV simulators, providing wealthy content material and a big on-line neighborhood. Its up to date coaching program supplies a wonderful structured studying path for full novices.

Priced at $19.99, Liftoff strikes a stability between ease of use and a complete function set. With a user-friendly interface, real looking physics, and numerous gameplay choices, it appeals to a large viewers, from novices to skilled pilots.

Whereas its graphics would possibly fall barely brief in comparison with some newer simulators, Liftoff stays an exceptionally mature FPV sim, boasting a formidable quantity of content material. No different simulator matches its in depth assortment of a whole lot of drone fashions and 1000’s of tracks created by each builders and the neighborhood.

Liftoff was additionally the primary simulator to introduce a “components system,” permitting you to customise your drone by swapping parts similar to in actual life. Moreover, it’s one of many few simulators that simulate propeller injury (this function may also be disabled), selling exact flying and elevated consciousness of obstacles for a extra genuine flying expertise.

Listed here are a few of my flying in Liftoff a few years in the past.

The Drone Racing League Simulator (DRL)

Launched in 2017, the Drone Racing League Simulator (DRL) supplies an distinctive start line for anybody new to FPV flying, because of its complete coaching program and interesting gameplay.

Priced at simply $10, DRL provides spectacular worth, boasting over 20 numerous maps, in depth multiplayer choices, and a number of recreation modes. It’s a wonderful alternative for each novices and seasoned pilots.

The standout function is its structured coaching program, which rigorously guides you from fundamental flying strategies to superior maneuvers, making it splendid for novices.

Though its graphics are barely dated on account of its launch in 2017, DRL’s in depth content material makes it a extremely really useful simulator. One other distinctive facet is that DRL makes use of this simulator to host on-line tryout occasions—top-performing pilots can earn an opportunity to compete in real-life DRL occasions.

As a gamer, I discover DRL to be one of the vital entertaining simulators. The maps are creatively designed and provide distinctive selection; for instance, one map seamlessly combines skyscrapers, deserted factories, and a shipyard, all inside a single atmosphere.

Right here’s a video of me having enjoyable diving highrises and navigating its race observe:

DRL additionally provides aggressive racing options, reminiscent of racing towards “ghosts” (pre-recorded flights from different pilots at an analogous talent stage). Nevertheless, as a racing-focused simulator, VelociDrone could also be extra forgiving concerning pc {hardware} necessities.

TRYP FPV

Launched in 2022, TRYP FPV is arguably among the finest freestyle simulators obtainable, recognized particularly for its unbelievable graphics.

As one of many newest FPV simulators, TRYP FPV impresses customers with its beautiful visuals, expansive maps, and meticulous consideration to element. Priced at $14.99 on Steam, it provides a complete simulator expertise. Nevertheless, regardless of its superior graphics, some customers have reported poor optimization, resulting in low body charges or body drops, particularly throughout freestyle maneuvers, relying on the precise map or atmosphere. Its demanding efficiency necessities might restrict accessibility for customers with out highly effective gaming PCs.

Sadly, the coaching program falls brief, probably making the educational curve difficult for novices. Nonetheless, for knowledgeable pilots, the simulator’s huge and numerous environments are a delight. It options shifting objects (reminiscent of race vehicles and skiers) you’ll be able to observe together with your drone, serving to to boost your freestyle and cinematic flying abilities. Whereas the simulated quads really feel barely heavier than in actual life, the physics stays moderately correct, and drone parameters are adjustable to intently replicate real-world flight traits.

Total, TRYP FPV stands out as certainly one of my favourite simulators on account of its beautiful graphics and wealthy freestyle/cinematic options. It’s notably interesting to folks with high-performance gaming PC searching for expansive and immersive flying experiences. With excessive graphics settings enabled, the simulator can often really feel astonishingly near flying in an actual atmosphere.

Uncrashed

Launched in 2021, Uncrashed is a dream come true for knowledgeable freestyle pilots, because of its beautiful graphics and expansive environments.

I’d place Uncrashed in the identical class as TRYP FPV, as these newer simulators set a excessive customary for visible high quality and easy flying efficiency. Though the physics really feel common—not fairly as real looking as another simulators—they’re definitely ok that will help you grasp flying FPV. Drone and atmosphere settings could be personalized, however this may be overwhelming for novices.

With over 19 distinctive maps that includes participating actions like chasing vehicles, Uncrashed is right for freestyle pilots in search of selection. The simulator provides often up to date content material, Steam Workshop integration, and a very good multiplayer expertise. Nevertheless, the dearth of a structured newbie coaching program is a notable shortcoming, stopping it from changing into the definitive FPV simulator.

In my view, Uncrashed excels as a visually immersive and fulfilling freestyle simulator. The expansive playgrounds present countless leisure, and flying by futuristic environments paying homage to the flying-car scenes from “The Fifth Factor” by no means will get outdated.

Selecting between Uncrashed and TRYP FPV could be difficult. Nevertheless, current updates to Uncrashed—together with the addition of multiplayer mode and a map modifying instrument—give it an edge over TRYP, which lacks these options.

FPV.SkyDive

FPV Skydive initially appears to be like promising when it was launched in 2021, particularly as a totally free simulator providing freestyle, racing, and multiplayer modes. Nevertheless, its free choices are shortly overshadowed by paywalls blocking further tracks, maps, and coaching classes. Whereas it runs easily and enjoys energetic multiplayer rooms, the drone physics really feel mediocre, detracting considerably from the general realism. Appropriate maybe for novices wanting a fundamental entry level, however not really useful in the event you’re seeking to progress severely. In case you are keen to spend cash, different paid choices are extra full packages and extra value it in my view. With that stated you’ll be able to nonetheless obtain this sim and benefit from the free content material and get a style of FPV with out spending any cash.

Replace (Mar 2022): Orqa launched an Android/iOS model of this sim!

FPV Logic

FPV Logic is a comparatively new FPV simulator recognized for its real looking physics much like VelociDrone, however lean extra in direction of freestyle flying. Though considerably barebones, it options glorious freestyle maps excellent for flowing by artistic gaps and contours. It features a fundamental race mode with AI opponents however lacks superior options like VelociDrone’s customized tracks or nemesis mode. Some pilots discover sustaining momentum difficult, making the physics often really feel uncommon. Though actively up to date, it feels restricted in comparison with TRYP, DRL, or Uncrashed, providing much less general worth.

Tiny Whoop Simulators

Liftoff: Micro Drones

When discussing Tiny Whoop simulators, you need to try Liftoff: Micro Drones. This unbiased, purpose-built simulator is designed particularly for the Tiny Whoop class by the identical individuals who made Liftoff.

The physics are fairly good, although if I’m being choosy, the whoops appear to hold barely extra momentum than in actual life—as in the event that they’re heavier. This makes them more durable to manage and tougher to maneuver precisely by turns. The drone tends to “slide”, requiring further stick changes and diminished velocity to navigate race gates easily.

As compared, Tiny Whoop GO feels extra forgiving, making it simpler for novices to deal with. Nevertheless, this forgiving nature would possibly diminish the expertise for extra superior racers. Should you’re in search of a tougher simulator to enhance your whoop piloting abilities, Liftoff: Micro Drones may be the higher alternative.

The eye to element and creativity on this sim are spectacular. As an example, within the warehouse map, you’ll hear ambient feels like forklifts working and other people working, creating a very immersive flying expertise. The “Promenade Night time” map is filled with interactive parts—you’ll be able to pop balloons, dispense soda from merchandising machines, and even play music from the DJ’s laptop computer!

Tiny Whoop GO

Should you’re searching for a free Tiny Whoop simulator, Tiny Whoop GO was a incredible choice. It felt moderately real looking, although barely simpler to fly than in actual life, which could disappoint pilots searching for extra of a problem.

Replace 2025: Sadly, Tiny Whoop GO is now not free, and its present value is almost thrice increased than Liftoff: Micro Drones, making it exhausting to suggest.

Different FPV Simulators

AI Drone Simulator

At $15, AI Drone Simulator guarantees a contemporary FPV simulator expertise however falls brief in delivering a standout function set. Whereas it provides high-detail maps and the choice for community-made drone downloads, its lack of options and recreation modes in comparison with different widespread sims place it in a difficult place. For these prioritizing neighborhood content material and drone customization, AI Drone Simulator provides some enchantment, however general, it struggles to justify its place in a aggressive market.

FlowState

Flowstate is on the market on Steam, and it’s free. It’s tailor-made extra in direction of racing, and missing quite a lot of options on different paid sims.

FPV FreeRider (Unique and Recharged)

FPV Freerider ($6) and its upgraded model, FPV Freerider Recharged ($10), have been type of outdated. Regardless of having good drone physics and a good racetrack generator/editor, the small maps, lack of customization, and poor graphics undermine their worth. FPV Freerider Recharged provides improved graphics however strips away precious options like the automated observe generator, failing to justify its increased price ticket.

CurryKitten FPV Simulator

At simply $2, CurryKitten FPV Simulator, created by an FPV YouTuber, deserves respect for its solo-developed roots. Sadly, it’s marred by outdated graphics, restricted maps, lack of drone customization choices, and common physics. The interface is difficult to navigate, and with no updates since 2022, it sadly doesn’t maintain up as we speak within the aggressive market.

DCL – The Recreation

At $30, Drone Champions League (DCL) Simulator emphasizes gamification, together with incomes rewards and customizing drones. Sadly, unrealistic physics and lack of selection restrict its worth strictly to informal gaming relatively than severe simulation or coaching.

Connecting Radio To FPV Simulator

Connecting your FPV radio/controller to a simulator is easy, that is the best way to do it with any EdgeTX radios:

1. Energy in your radio controller.
2. Join it to your pc utilizing a USB-C cable (some radios has one USB port for each information and charging, however some has two ports, one for charging and the opposite for information; be certain that to connect with the information USB port):
3. Choose the USB Joystick choice in your radio as soon as linked.
4. Launch your FPV simulator
5. Navigate to the simulator’s Choices → Controller settings.
6. Calibrate your radio/controller: Observe the on-screen prompts to assign throttle, yaw, pitch, and roll inputs.
7. Verify every enter is appropriately assigned by shifting the sticks as instructed.
8. End calibration and return to the principle menu.
9. You’re now able to fly!

Different Methods to Join Your Radio to the Simulator

Whereas utilizing a USB cable is probably the most simple methodology, there are other ways to attach your radio controller to the simulator. You should use ExpressLRS Bluetooth or even a receiver dongle (reminiscent of by way of a flight controller or utilizing merchandise just like the Squid Stick). These wi-fi strategies provide comfort, however have in mind they could introduce further latency on account of further processing, which may make simulators really feel barely much less real looking.

One other advantage of utilizing a USB cable is that your radio’s battery will hardly ever run out when you’re utilizing the simulator, because the USB connection concurrently fees the battery.

Pc Requirement

How nicely FPV simulators run largely is dependent upon your pc’s GPU, CPU, and the chosen video decision and graphics settings. When you’ve got an older or slower pc, some simulators could not carry out optimally. Decreasing your graphics settings can typically assist older computer systems deal with simulators extra easily.

When your pc struggles to render the simulator, you would possibly expertise stuttering, body drops, and elevated latency, making the flying expertise really feel unrealistic. When Liftoff first got here out, I initially complained it felt floaty and unresponsive. It turned out my PC was just too sluggish. After decreasing all graphics settings to the minimal, these points have been tremendously improved. Later, once I upgraded to a sooner gaming PC, I might run Liftoff easily even at excessive graphics settings.

Should you’re not sure how nicely your simulator is working, monitor the body fee. Purpose for body charges equal to or higher than your monitor’s refresh fee. In case your body fee falls under this, contemplate decreasing your graphics settings.

My gaming PC handles all these simulators fairly nicely even at excessive picture high quality settings. Nevertheless, I desire utilizing low-to-mid settings to realize increased FPS, making the simulation really feel nearer to actual life. Listed here are my PC specs (Amazon affiliate hyperlinks):

I additionally use my MacBook Professional for FPV simulators when touring. It’s been incredible for modifying FPV movies and training in sims whereas I’m away—I can’t suggest it extremely sufficient. I clarify why I desire the M1 Professional over the M2 on this article: https://oscarliang.com/macbook-air-m2-pro-m1/. Sometimes, you could find reductions of as much as 10% on Amazon. I saved practically $200 on my 14″ Professional M1. Examine costs on Amazon (affiliate hyperlink): https://amzn.to/3CgxOTr

Finest FPV Sim for MacOS

Regardless of my preliminary concern that my non-gaming Macbook Professional (M1 14inch) would battle, I used to be pleasantly stunned to seek out that I didn’t face any points with the simulators I examined. It’s additionally appropriate with widespread radios reminiscent of Radiomaster and Jumper.

Most sims ought to run easily on the most recent Macs. Nevertheless, for many who wish to play protected, Velocidrone is a superb alternative. It has one of many lowest CPU and GPU necessities. Regardless of an absence of high-end graphics, it doesn’t skimp on options, guaranteeing a complete coaching expertise.

For these seeking to discover different simulators on Steam, be at liberty to present them a go. Steam’s refund coverage is there in the event that they don’t carry out nicely in your machine.

Does Physics Matter?

Sure and no.

The physics of a drone simulator are extremely subjective. Whereas simulators proceed to enhance and intently mimic real-life flying, they could by no means really feel precisely the identical as flying an precise drone.

In the end, the aim of a simulator is that will help you be taught the basics of flying and construct muscle reminiscence. Select a simulator that feels real looking sufficient for you, has graphics you take pleasure in, and runs easily in your pc.

Focus your time on constant follow relatively than worrying an excessive amount of about simulator physics.

What to Apply in Simulators

Keep correct posture and ergonomics whereas utilizing simulators. Should you sometimes stand whereas flying in actual life, do the identical throughout simulator follow. Equally, in the event you usually use a neck strap, use one throughout your simulation periods.

Should you’re an entire newbie, choose an open map with minimal obstacles to start out.

For novices, right here’s what I might suggest to follow:

• Arming and Disarming: Apply arming and disarming your drone often. Once you crash, follow disarming the drone earlier than hitting the reset button—it is a important behavior to kind.
• Fundamental Flight Actions: Apply taking off, flying in a straight line, making left and proper turns, and flying in circles.
• Touchdown: Apply managed touchdown by hovering near the bottom earlier than disarming, minimizing affect. Don’t underestimate this straightforward train, you’ll be stunned how many individuals can carry out advanced acrobatic strikes however battle to land with out crashing 🙂
• Precision Maneuvering: Apply flying by gaps to develop precision and management.
• Freestyle Maneuvers: Apply exact rolls, flips, and split-S maneuvers – these are the basic of freestyle strikes.

Simulator Tuning and Settings

After years of flying FPV simulators, I can confidently say that the default settings in most FPV sims sometimes aren’t optimum. Adjusting the settings can often make your digital drone really feel nearer to an actual one.

Along with settings generally discovered on actual quads—reminiscent of PIDs and charges—you may as well fine-tune the simulator’s physics. Your aim is to match the quad efficiency in simulator to your real-world quad as intently as potential. Should you’re simply beginning out, you won’t but have a transparent concept of how an actual drone ought to deal with. On this case, sticking to the default settings or copying another person’s confirmed settings is advisable. One vital setting to customise early is your charges, which management the sensitivity of your quadcopter. Take a look at this information to be taught extra about charges: https://oscarliang.com/charges/

I sometimes set my graphics to the bottom potential settings and disable any pointless visible results. This ensures the best potential body fee, minimizing latency and maximizing smoothness for probably the most real looking flying expertise.

Ought to I Put on FPV Goggles for Simulators?

It’s type of pointless, however you’ll be able to strive if you’d like.

FPV Goggles with HDMI enter, reminiscent of Skyzone SKY04X Professional, Walksnail Goggles X or HDZero Goggles, can hook up with your pc and function an exterior monitor, permitting you to follow FPV flying with goggles. This would possibly assist novices grow to be accustomed to flying with goggles from the beginning.

Nevertheless, I personally discover utilizing a normal monitor simpler on the eyes, particularly throughout lengthy follow periods. Moreover, gaming displays sometimes provide superior body charges and picture high quality in comparison with FPV goggles, offering a extra snug and real looking expertise general.

Line of Sight Flying Simulators

Many FPV pilots can fly nicely utilizing goggles however battle with line-of-sight (LOS) flying. Whereas training LOS in a simulator would possibly assist considerably, it’s sometimes not the simplest strategy.

Firstly, simulators lack the depth notion you’d usually expertise in actual life, making it tough to precisely choose your drone’s distance on display. Moreover, orientation could be difficult to discern clearly in simulators on account of decrease display resolutions.

Should you’re thinking about training LOS in simulators anyway, listed here are a number of choices:

• Liftoff: Press B to change to LOS mode.
• VelociDrone: Scroll the mouse wheel to zoom into LOS mode.
• FPV Freerider: Gives a devoted LOS mode.

Devoted Radio Profile for Simulators

When utilizing simulators, arrange a devoted radio profile in your transmitter. Merely duplicate your present profile for FPV drone, and disable each inner and exterior RF modules within the Mannequin setup. This helps preserve your transmitter’s battery throughout simulator periods.

Points Connecting Radio to macOS?

Should you’ve linked your radio controller to a Mac and nothing occurs—no immediate on the radio to pick joystick mode and no detection by the pc—it may be a cable concern. I encountered this downside when utilizing a USB-C to USB-C cable. The identical cable labored high-quality on a Home windows pc however didn’t work with my MacBook.

The answer is to make use of a USB Kind-A to USB-C cable. In case your Mac doesn’t have a USB Kind-A port, merely use a USB-C male to USB-A feminine adapter. I’ve examined this and it really works completely.

Yow will discover an appropriate adapter right here: https://amzn.to/470TcYI

Can I Use an Android Cellphone or iPhone for Simulators?

Should you’re seeking to follow FPV flying on a smartphone, utilizing an Android machine is usually extra simple. You’ll be able to join your radio on to an Android cellphone utilizing an OTG USB cable.

Nevertheless, connecting by way of USB isn’t potential on an iPhone on account of iOS restrictions. When you can management the drone utilizing the touchscreen, this methodology doesn’t successfully translate to real-world flying abilities. Alternatively, you’ll be able to join a radio to your iPhone wirelessly by way of WiFi, supplied your radio has an ExpressLRS transmitter module. Merely allow WiFi in your ExpressLRS module, be a part of that WiFi community out of your iPhone, and configure the joystick inside appropriate simulators (such because the VelociDrone iOS model). Bear in mind, although, that WiFi connections could introduce increased latency in comparison with a direct USB connection on Android.

Ultimate Ideas – My Suggestions

Listed here are my prime FPV simulator suggestions:

FPV drone simulators can’t totally change real-world flying, however they’re extraordinarily useful for enhancing your flying abilities with out risking injury to your drone, or when out of doors flying isn’t potential. For novices, simulators provide a useful alternative to construct muscle reminiscence and be taught new abilities. As you advance, real-world follow turns into more and more vital. Whereas some simulators emphasize graphics and visible realism, others prioritize correct flight physics and broad {hardware} compatibility. In the end, select a simulator that aligns greatest together with your particular wants and preferences. Comfortable flying!

Edit Historical past

• 2015 – Article created
• 2017 – Up to date critiques
• 2018 – Up to date critiques
• 2019 – Up to date critiques, added “Sporting FPV Goggles in Sims”
• 2021 – Shortened URL, up to date my suggestions
• 2022 – Up to date listing with new simulators
• 2023 – Up to date listing with new sims
• 2024 – Up to date my critiques and suggestions
• 2025 – Up to date suggestions and critiques