Best Electric RC Airplanes of 2025

Jimmy Roof Avatar
Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Electric RC airplanes are a great way to experience the thrill of flying without leaving the ground. These miniature aircraft are powered by electric motors and controlled by remote transmitters, allowing pilots to perform aerial stunts and maneuvers with ease. They come in a variety of sizes and designs, from small indoor models to large outdoor planes. Some even have video cameras installed, allowing pilots to capture amazing aerial footage. With their ease of use and versatility, electric RC airplanes are a popular choice for hobbyists and enthusiasts alike.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

E-flite UMX Turbo Timber Evolution Cover #TOP 1
E-flite UMX Turbo Timber Evolution
ftb score rating icon 9.8
HobbyZone RC Airplane AeroScout S 2 1.1m BNF Basic Cover #TOP 2
HobbyZone RC Airplane AeroScout S 2 1.1m BNF Basic
ftb score rating icon 9.7
E-flite UMX Air Tractor Cover #TOP 3
E-flite UMX Air Tractor
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 5 Electric RC Airplanes

#TOP 1

E-flite UMX Turbo Timber Evolution

EFLU8950
E-flite UMX Turbo Timber Evolution Cover
E-flite RC Airplane UMX Turbo Timber Evolution BNF Basic Transmitter Battery and Charger Not Included with AS3X and Safe EFLU8950 Airplanes B&F Electric

The E-flite Turbo Timber is a versatile RC airplane that offers incredible Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities, as well as sport flying and aerobatic abilities. With its 2S and 3S compatible motor and ESC, this airplane provides a wide range of performance options, from mild to wild. The optional-use SAFE Select flight envelope protection makes it easier to fly, offering flight envelope protection for beginners. Additionally, the Turbo Timber comes with functional and factory-installed LED landing, navigation, and strobe lights, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions. Its unique capabilities and compact size allow for flying in more places and smaller spaces, providing users with a convenient and enjoyable flying experience.

What We Like
Incredible STOL capabilities
2S and 3S compatible motor and ESC
Optional-use SAFE Select flight envelope protection
#TOP 2

HobbyZone RC Airplane AeroScout S 2 1.1m BNF Basic

HBZ385001
Orange
HobbyZone RC Airplane AeroScout S 2 1.1m BNF Basic Cover
HobbyZone RC Airplane AeroScout S 2 1.1m BNF Basic (Transmitter, Battery and Charger Not Included) HBZ385001, Airplanes Bind and Fly Electric Trainer

The HobbyZone AeroScout S is the perfect trainer for both first-time pilots and experienced pilots who teach others to fly. Equipped with exclusive SAFE technology, this RC airplane helps prevent crashes and makes it easy to learn how to fly. With beginner, intermediate, and experienced flight modes, you can easily switch between them at the flip of a switch. This airplane is ready to use with your compatible Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 equipped transmitter, battery, and charger. Additionally, you have the option to fly from water with the optional floats available for purchase. The HobbyZone AeroScout S provides durability, convenience, and versatility for a smooth flying experience.

What We Like
Durable trainer
SAFE technology
Multiple flight modes
#TOP 3

E-flite UMX Air Tractor

EFLU16450
Yellow
E-flite UMX Air Tractor Cover
E-flite RC Airplane UMX Air Tractor Bind-N-Fly Basic Transmitter Battery and Charger Not Included with AS3X and Safe Select EFLU16450 Airplanes B&F Electric

The E-flite UMX Air Tractor is a scale replica of the agricultural "crop dusting" utility aircraft. It is ultra-micro sized, making it uniquely capable and versatile, allowing you to fly it in more places and smaller spaces. With its 2S and 3S compatible motor and ESC, you have a wide range of performance options. The optional-use SAFE Select flight envelope protection makes it easier to fly, providing flight stability and preventing crashes. Additionally, the UMX Air Tractor features functional and factory-installed LED landing, navigation, and strobe lights, enhancing its realism and making it more visible during low-light conditions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pilot, the E-flite UMX Air Tractor offers a fun and exciting flying experience.

What We Like
Scale replica
Ultra-micro sized
2S and 3S compatible
#TOP 4

Top Race RC Plane 3 Channel Battery Powered Ready to Fly

TR-C285G
White/Blue
Top Race RC Plane 3 Channel Battery Powered Ready to Fly Cover
Top Race Remote Control Airplane - RC Plane 3 Channel Battery-Powered - Radio Control Airplanes for Adults and Kids 8-12 - Easter Gift Toy - Easy to Control Electric Planes with Propeller Saver

The Top Race Remote Control Airplane is an easy-to-control electric RC plane that comes with advanced propeller saver technology. The RC plane offers three levels of flying to fit everyone, including beginners and adults. It has a remote control distance of over 320 feet and comes with a 8mm coreless motor that flies up to 12 minutes on a single charge. The package includes the plane, 3 spare propellers, 1 transmitter, 2 batteries, USB charger and user manual, making it a great Easter gift toy for adults or kids.

What We Like
Advanced propeller saver technology to protect from damage
Three levels of flying to fit everyone
Long remote control distance of over 320 feet
#TOP 5

E-flite Slow Ultra Stick 1.2m

EFL0350
White
E-flite Slow Ultra Stick 1.2m Cover
E-flite RC Airplane Slow Ultra Stick 1.2m BNF Basic Transmitter Battery and Charger Not Included with AS3X and Safe Select EFL0350 Airplanes Bind and Fly Electric Hobby

The E-flite Slow Ultra Stick combines classic design with modern technology, making it perfect for various flying environments. You’ll appreciate the updated fuselage joiner and landing gear, enhancing durability and performance. Its versatile nature allows you to fly it in smaller spaces like your yard or a park. The specially designed brushless motor works seamlessly with 2S and 3S batteries, providing you with flexibility without needing any modifications. Additionally, its strong composite-reinforced structure ensures stability and resilience during your flights.

What We Like
Modern design with classic appeal
Versatile flying capabilities
Compatible with multiple battery types
Durable composite construction
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is RC airplane hobby dying?

But overall, with far fewer people enjoying the hobby, most aircraft-centric manufacturers and retailers will cease to exist, and with them, a pastime enjoyed for generations. ... The R/C aviation hobby died for us years ago, and is, sadly, continuing to wither away.

2. What size electric motor do I need for my RC plane?

Electric motor power is stated in watts. 750 watts = 1 horsepower. An easy way to estimate power needs for RC hobby applications is to use 100 watts per pound for sport flying, 150 for aggressive aerobatics, 200 watts per pound for 3D flying.

You can fly your rc plane or drone anywhere below 400 ft, so long as you're not near an airport, a crowd of people or other sensitive areas, and you're not infringing local laws. You can't fly in National Parks, but you can fly in National Forests.

4. How long do electric RC planes fly?

Electric RC aircraft are not known for long flight times, with multirotors usually doing 20-45 minutes, while most fixed wings will struggle to get past two hours.

Editor's Notes

During our electric rc airplane research, we found 24 electric rc airplane products and shortlisted 5 quality products. We collected and analyzed 29,137 customer reviews through our big data system to write the electric rc airplanes list. We found that most customers choose electric rc airplanes with an average price of $110.74.

The electric rc airplanes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of electric rc airplanes, including E-flite, HobbyZone, Top Race. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jimmy Roof Avatar

Jimmy Roof is a toy designer who lives in Chicago with his family. He works in a big toy firm, so he is surrounded by toys every day. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in children's toys, baby products and preschool education. Jimmy Roof often publishes articles related to toys on key websites.