5inch FPV drones offer versatility, balance, and suitability for various flying styles, making them the most popular choice. Affordable and easy to assemble, these drones can carry action cameras and have widely available components. I have selected a list of components cover everything needed for a complete build.
I have a tutorial to show you how to build a 5″ FPV drone from scratch: https://oscarliang.com/how-to-build-fpv-drone/
Cheapest yet decent build list: https://oscarliang.com/cheapest-fpv-drone-build/
Table of Contents
Prebuilt 5-inch FPV Drone (BNF)
The iFlight Evoque and GEPRC Mark 5 are both extremely closely matched in terms of performance, features and quality. Frankly, you won’t go wrong with either of them. They’ve all got very capable ESC, flight controller, and motors. They’re all available in either a DJI FPV version or an analog version. So let’s focus on the things that set them apart.
Axisflying Manta 5 SE
The AxisFlying Manta 5 SE delivers solid value for its price and serves as a great entry point into the FPV hobby. It offers a lot of versatility for both beginners and budget-conscious pilots. Personally I think the analog version offers better value. I tested the O3 version and I also like it, but the props in view kind of reduces its appeal. Check out my review to learn more: https://oscarliang.com/axisflying-manta-5-se-analog-bnf/
Get the Analog Version from AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oCA2Dq4
Get the DJI O3 Version from:
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-stmj
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-x5pm
GEPRC Vapor
The GEPRC Vapor D5 is probably one of the best BNF 5inch quad with DJI O4 Pro you can get today. The combination of a robust build, innovative design, and superb flight performance makes it an excellent choice for both freestyle pilots and those looking to capture cinematic footage with the O4 Pro camera. The main downside for me would be flight time and efficiency. But if you put a big enough battery on this thing it can still fly for 12 minutes or more, with its reliable GPS module, it can be a pretty good mid to long range FPV drone. Check out my review to learn more: https://oscarliang.com/geprc-vapor-d5-o4/
Purchase from these vendors:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oEmdNbF
NewBeeDrone: https://oscarliang.com/product-0auo
FPV24: https://oscarliang.com/product-fucl
Frame
If you plan to build your own drone, choose a frame.
GEPRC Vapor D5 / X5
The GEPRC Vapor come well-equipped with all necessary parts for assembly, including carbon fiber arms and plates, mounting hardware, and a variety of 3D printed TPU parts. These frames support the latest DJI O4 Pro Air Unit, have multiple mounting holes for stacks and video transmitters. See my review for more details: https://oscarliang.com/geprc-vapor-x5-d5-frame/
The primary difference between the X5 and D5 versions is the frame layout: the D5 features a wide X pattern, while the X5 has a True X pattern. The D5 is designed for cinematic style flying which keeps the propellers out of the camera’s view, while the X5 has the symmetric layout that is preferred for freestyle flying. Overall the GEPRC Vapor frames are solid for 5-inch O4 Pro builds, with quality components and design features.
Purchase the Vapor D5/X5 here:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_okXKP9V
Amazon: https://amzn.to/42p27nB
NewBeeDrone: https://oscarliang.com/product-62pw
AxisFlying Manta 5 SE
The AxisFlying Manta 5 SE frame is great for those who don’t own a 3D printer and need a ready-to-go 5-inch FPV drone frame. Despite its affordable price, this frame stands out for its combination of features, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal, making it an excellent option for pilots of all levels. It’s compatible with most if not all FPV systems apart from the DJI O4 Pro.
The Manta 5 SE features a split deck design that reduces weight while maximizes room for mounting your FPV camera. Various mounting patterns for different sizes FC and VTX. The included 3D printed accessories make this frame versatile for both beginners and experienced pilots. One downside is you will see the propellers in your FPV feed which is common for X frames. Learn more about this frame in my review: https://oscarliang.com/axisflying-manta-5-se-frame/
Find the Axisflying Manta 5 SE from:
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-lnot
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_omqpGWT
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-2izg
Source One V5
The TBS Source One V5 frame is one of the cheapest FPV drone frames available from a well-known brand. Its popularity lies in its open-source nature, allowing for a wide range of TPU accessory designs available online, provided you have access to a 3D printer. Spare parts are also readily available, adding to its appeal. The frame’s simple yet effective design delivers decent flight performance and durability.
However, it includes only the bare minimum of parts. To get the most out of the Source One V5, I recommend downloading and 3D printing some TPU parts from platforms like Thingiverse. Learn more in my detailed review: https://oscarliang.com/source-one-v5/
Where to Buy the TBS Source One V5 Frame:
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-dg3f
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DEidP4J
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3U1wyt8
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-nf0f
FlyFishRC Volador
The FlyFishRC Volador is a well-designed frame that emphasizes originality and attention to detail, making it an excellent choice for building an FPV drone with an O3 air unit. However, its assembly might be a bit more complex compared to other frames due to the number of components, which could be daunting for beginners. Additionally, the Volador frames are on the heavier side, which may not appeal to those prioritizing performance.
That said, for pilots who value a clean and organized build and don’t mind the additional weight, the Volador frames are worth considering. The inclusion of all necessary TPU parts is a thoughtful addition, especially for those without access to a 3D printer.
Volador VX5
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Ddkfu2Z
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-kl48
Volador VD5
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Dl4NyVf
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-kl48
FC and ESC
Speedybee F405 Mini
If you need a 20x20mm stack, this is a great choice for any ultra-light 5″, 4″ long-range, 3″ cinewhoops, or smaller builds. The 35A rating is sufficient even for most 5″ builds unless you intend to use large, powerful motors; in that case, you should probably consider the 30x30mm version.
With a price point under $60 for the Speedybee F405 Mini stack, this product offers excellent value. If you’re in the market for a feature-packed flight controller and ESC without breaking the bank, the SpeedyBee F4 Mini Stack is worth considering. See my review for more info: https://oscarliang.com/speedybee-f405-mini-fc-stack/
Purchase the SpeedyBee F405 Mini Stack Here:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnStZiP
SpeedyBee: https://oscarliang.com/product-fne8
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aY6Ezd
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-ya4n
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-v0bw
Rush Blade F722 FC – Top of the line
The Rush Blade F722 offers a feature-rich and robust FC Stack with numerous JST connectors for a potentially solder-less setup. This design allows for quick and easy FC swap-outs, ideal for racers and emergencies. Additionally, the solder pad layout is clean and user-friendly for direct soldering of devices to the FC. For more information, refer to the comprehensive review of the Rush Blade F722: https://oscarliang.com/rush-blade-fc-stack/
Analog Version
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDkwnin
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-xr0x
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UlAo08
DJI Version
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-wlzi
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-wy0t
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DlTadlz
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UsATWq
Motors
T-Motor Velox Veloce V2207.5 V2
Budget Motor with Decent Quality
At $14.9 a piece, the Velox V2207 V2/V3 is perhaps the cheapest worth having motors you can buy today. It’s a budget offering from T-Motor with modern design and features: N52 magnets, titanium shaft and manufactured by the reputable T-Motor. They offer different KV options, for cinematic and endurance types of flying, I think 1750KV is great on 6S. For racing or more aggressive freestyle flying opt for 1950KV-2050KV. For 4S battery, opt for 2550KV.
Get the T-Motor Velox from:
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-ahy5
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-gch4
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDjg899
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Qp4W1Z
RCinPower Wasp Major
Best Performing In Terms of Power and Responsiveness
One of the very best all-rounder 5″ Motors available today, with outstanding performance in both raw power and responsiveness. It’s an ideal choice for both freestyle and racing builds.
Find the RCinPower Wasp Major 22.6-6.5 1860KV here:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Dd3sjt3
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-f8kc
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-ocry
EMAX ECO II 2207
Cheapest Worth Having
These motors have strong N52 magnets and solid build quality at an attractive price point. While you can find motors for less money they are rarely worth buying.
According to rumour, Emax is selling the ECO II motors at a lost, just trying to match the cheapest motors on the market. I found it to be believable because this motor is only $16! We have no way to prove it, but the Emax ECO II has been proven to be some of the best budget FPV motors over the years.
Perhaps not the best motor for raw performance, but you can’t really ask more as they are probably the cheapest worth having motors currently available. These are great if you are just starting out or want to build a basher. It’s also an extremely efficient motor if flight time is important to you.
They offer 1700KV and 1900KV for 6S, 2400KV for 4S. They also do 2306 motor size too, but personally I prefer the bigger stator size 2207, it’s more powerful and responsive for the same price.
Purchase the EMAX ECO II 2207 from:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DBfROTx
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-6vdt
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-8mns
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3wQE9Ey
iFlight Xing2 2207
Tried and True
It has most of the desired features in a modern FPV drone motor: unibell design, titanium shaft, slotted arc magnets for faster response, strong N52 magnets and a protective o-ring to keep the bearings smoother for longer.
Apart from the distinctive and unique curved unibody motor bell that makes it super durable, the Xing2 2306 and 2207 motors also come with lots of great features. For example, a single piece titanium alloy motor shaft, robust 9x4x4 bearings, single-strand winding, and the damping ring between bell and bearing that improves durability.
The Xing2 is a powerful motor with high torque, which translates into responsiveness and snappiness in flight. For $21 per motor, you are getting a top tier performance motor that are normally sold around the $30 price range, making it extremely good value. I have been flying the Xing2 on my new Source One V5 build, and it’s one of the smoothest in my fleet.
The iFlight Xing2 motor line-up offers many different KV depending on what LiPo voltages you plan to use (4S or 6S), propellers and flying styles. For 2207, there are 1855KV (6S) and 2755KV (4S), for 2306, there are 1755KV (6S) and 2555KV (4S).
Get the iFlight Xing2 2207 here:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DefjM73
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-2bz1
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-hzvo
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-ag8w
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3OJa4v3
Propellers
The “smoothness” of the propellers plays a significant role in drone flight performance and how much you can push PID and filters in tuning. Propellers with less vibration will inherently have an advantage in this area. The weight distribution of the blade and the overall weight of the prop also matter, as it affects how easily the prop can spin up and slow down, translating into faster RPM changes, improved drone response, and better “propwash” handling.
I’ve tried all major propeller brands and found HQ props to be one of the smoothest and easiest to tune. They seem to be more balanced and cause less vibration than others. I’ve also had better luck with triblades than twinblades when it comes to achieving smoothness.
HQ 5×4.3×3 V2S
Best All-Rounder
The HQ 5×4.3×3 V2S is a fantastic all-purpose propeller. Its linear throttle response gives precise control across the entire throttle range, making your drone feel snappy and connected. It’s also well-balanced, reducing vibrations and helping with smooth tuning.
Get the HQ 5×4.3×3 from:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DneZBnf
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3dlBRDF
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-9yhl
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-5lqa
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-v2u8
Gemfan Hurricane 51466
Best for Racing
The Gemfan Hurricane is designed for speed and agility. It’s lightweight, with an optimized blade design for quick RPM changes, giving you plenty of punch in the higher throttle range. They are also pretty durable. Bent props? Just bend it back and keep flying!
Get the Gemfan Hurricane 51466-3 from:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDe02Ep
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-dsex
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2OvWfSF
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-v2r2
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-cn2c
HQ 5.1×2.5×3
Best for Cinematic
If smoothness and efficiency are your priorities, the HQ 5.1×2.5×3 delivers exceptional results. Its low pitch allows quick RPM changes, improving propwash handling and making it ideal for cinematic footage.
Get the HQ 5.1×2.5×3 from:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdUbvuD
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-rwfl
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-ipbz
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-io66
DAL Cyclone 5045C
Most Durable
For everyday practice or rough flying, the DAL Cyclone 5045C is a great choice. These durable and affordable props can take a beating, making them perfect for beginners or bashing around.
Get the Cyclone 5040 from:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DcJD917
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-hzrz
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3eyUXRh
Batteries
GNB – Great Value and Performance
GNB’s latest 160C LiPo and LiHV batteries demonstrated excellent performance in my recent testing. In particular, the LiHV lineup, being more energy-dense than traditional LiPo, is a great choice for those seeking more power and longer flight times. However, if you’re concerned about lifespan, their LiPo offering is also an excellent option.
6S 1100mAh LiHV
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oDJZ3Hv
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-jwjd
6S 1300mAh LiHV
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_olXn6s3
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-qmzk
6S 1500mAh LiHV
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oBW7ot9
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-q4px
LiPo
4S 1500mAh: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDR5SFB
6S 1100mAh: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DB0ypHX
Other voltage/capacity: https://oscarliang.com/product-mzqb
RDQ Series – Budget Option for US Pilots
One of the best performing batteries for the price. Sold exclusively by RDQ, so this is a great option for North American pilots.
Product Page
4S 1300mAh: https://oscarliang.com/product-h2dh
4S 1500mAh: https://oscarliang.com/product-dk0h
6S 1000mAh: https://oscarliang.com/product-trm1
Other voltage/capacity: https://oscarliang.com/product-gjgw
Dogcom – Budget Option
Alongside GNB, Dogcom is another great budget battery. However the trade off for having excellent performing cells is that they are ever so slightly larger and heavier than other brands in its class, it’s worth it if you need that extra punch.
Product Page
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-rbp5
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DlbzRMD
BetaFPV LAVA 6S 1100mAh
Not necessarily the best performing LiPo on this list, but they are reliable and always seem to be in stock when I need to order. They’re good enough for daily practice and general flying.
BetaFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-4g15
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Dd9yobD
Tattu R-Line – Top of the Line
The Tattu R-Line is favored by many top FPV racers, which speaks to the battery’s quality and performance. The R-Line may be the most expensive option on the list, but if you’re seeking top-notch performance and are willing to pay a premium, the Tattu R-Line is worth considering.
6S:
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-f80m
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-38v6
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmJXvoD
4S:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnS3Yi1
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-iev3
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-e216
Accessories
GPS
Adding a GPS module to your drone allows for GPS rescue mode, which help bring your drone back in the event of signal lost. Check this post to learn about how to setup GPS rescue mode in Betaflight: https://oscarliang.com/setup-gps-rescue-mode-betaflight/
HGLRC M100 Mini GPS
The HGLRC M100 Mini GPS is a top-performing, lightweight module with a tiny form factor. Outperforming the BN220, it requires no configuration and uses the advanced UBlox M10 chip, supporting GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BDS satellite signals for global functionality. With a similar price to the BN220, it’s the go-to choice for 5″ freestyle quad builds. Compatible with Betaflight 4.3 or later, it obtains a 3D fix within a minute and connects to up to 28 satellites in 5 minutes. It’s smaller than the BN220 and BN180.
Get the HGLRC M100 GPS from:
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-r3o7
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-knfl
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-6zvg
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DCXKBFj
Flywoo Goku GM10 Nano V3
The GOKU Nano V3 from Flywoo is one of the smallest GPS module with impressive performance, outperforming the Nameless nano GPS and BN220. With no configuration needed, it offers a smaller and lighter design at a similar price, making it a great choice for micro builds. Consistently connecting to 26 satellites, its performance is remarkable for its size. Ensure you use Betaflight version 4.3 or newer to support the 10th generation Ublox GPS chip.
You can find the GOKU Nano GPS here:
Flywoo: https://oscarliang.com/product-jwzb
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-kky6
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-sglj
Beeper
Vifly Finder Mini
The ViFly Finder beeper is a self-powered buzzer designed for FPV drones, ideal for locating a crashed drone even if the battery is ejected or drained. It features a tiny built-in LiPo battery, enabling the buzzer to beep loudly (up to 105dB) for up to 7 to 30 hours. The Finder also functions as a regular beeper, controllable by a switch on the user’s controller.
There are two versions of the ViFly Finder, The V2 is 5g and has a larger battery that can run up to 30 hours, while the Mini weighs only 3g with only 7 hours of battery life. The V2 also features a light sensor that turns off the beeper at night to conserve battery (assuming we don’t search for the quad at night).
Vifly Finder Mini (3g, 7 hours battery):
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdeppNP
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-jctp
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-nkfv
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3mszlQy
Vifly Finder V2 (5g, 30 hours battery):
Banggood: http://bit.ly/vifly-finder-2
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Bqa5iu
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeCjALr
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-utuc
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-hntr
FPV Camera, VTX, Antennas
An FPV video system consists of an FPV camera, a video transmitter (VTX), and an antenna. There are currently four video systems available: DJI, HDZero, Walksnail, and analog. To help you decide which system is best for your needs, check out this review: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-system/
Hardware recommendations depend on which FPV system you prefer. Here are my product recommendations for each component:
- FPV Cameras: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-camera/
- Video transmitters: https://oscarliang.com/video-transmitter/
- Antennas: https://oscarliang.com/best-fpv-antenna/
Tools and Wires
When connecting the battery lead on 5-inch quads, 14AWG wires are the standard, while 16AWG can also work for lighter, less powerful builds. For extending motor wires, 20AWG is a suitable choice. To connect the flight controller to radio receivers, FPV cameras, VTX, GPS, etc., all you need are some 28AWG or 30AWG wires. For connecting capacitors to power, as long as you keep the wires short, both 20AWG and 18AWG work well.
- Check out this tutorial on electrical wires and connectors for drones: https://oscarliang.com/wires-connectors/
- For a comprehensive list of tools you might need for building and repairing an FPV drone, visit: https://oscarliang.com/fpv-tools/
8 comments
Hi bro, sorry, I’m new to FPV. does DJI goggles v2 work with iFlight Nazgul ECO 5inch drone ?
If you use a analog receiver on your V2 Goggles, then yes. The ECO comes with analog VTX/Camera.
What about controller? can I use the one that comes with dji goggles integra combo? or do I need to purchase a controller?
If you are using the DJI O3 Air unit then you can use the DJI remote to control the drone.
Hi Oscar,
I’m new to FPV and your reviews have been incredibly helpful. I’m currently building my first 5″ drone using all the parts you recommended. The only thing missing is a Remote ID module, which is a must-have in my country. If you could make a review on this or reply to me via email, it would be wonderful. Much thanks!!
What charger will work with the The Tattu R-Line? Can you see if you can find one compatible with it under $50? Is it possible?
Take a look at my charger recommendations here, all of them are compatible with R-Line (6S or smaller): https://oscarliang.com/choose-lipo-battery-charger-power-supply/#Top-LiPo-Charger-Recommendations
Thanks! I will probably get the iSDT 608AC charger…