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.
iFlight Evoque F5
The iFlight Nazgul Evoque F5 comes with strong 6mm arms that sandwiched by two 2.5mm carbon plates, making it ultra sturdy and stiff, and it has protective side plates that provide protection to the electronics inside the frame. It uses the XING-E Pro 2207 6S 1800KV motors and has impressive LED light pipes on the side plates and bottom of the arms that can be customized in Betaflight. However the smaller 20x20mm FC and ESC stack might be less durable than the larger 30x30mm one in the GEPRC, although we haven’t heard many reports of durability issues. Both quads are well tuned out of the box, but I was slightly more impressed with the iFlight’s flight characteristics. To learn more: https://oscarliang.com/iflight-nazgul-evoque-f5/
DJI Version:
RDQ (DJI camera): https://oscarliang.com/product-ai4p
RDQ (Polar camera): https://oscarliang.com/product-bhu6
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnP7REV
NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-0v21
Analog Version:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnP7REV
GEPRC Mark 5
On the other hand, the GEPRC Mark 5 has a more thoughtfully designed frame and is easier to work with. The front of the frame is made of aluminum with a split top deck that allows maintenance without removing the HD camera mount. The GEPRC is more expensive, but it’s worth a little extra if you value innovative frame design and ease of maintenance. To learn more: https://oscarliang.com/geprc-mark5/
Purchase from these vendors:
DJI O3:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdnAtE5
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-njyg
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-waku
Vista:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DCX16g5
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3V3aX4W
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-pvuh
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-jfru
Analog:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnPya8V
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Hds6Dw
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-qotd
Frame
If you plan to build your own drone, choose a frame.
Source One V5
The TBS Source One V5 frame is an affordable and open-source FPV drone frame, suitable for beginners and advanced pilots alike. Its popularity stems from its constant updates, compatibility with the latest hardware, and a vast collection of spare parts, mods, and 3D printed accessory designs. The V5 has addressed several issues from its predecessor, the V4, including thicker 6mm arms, a split bottom plate design, and an arm locking wedge for increased durability and rigidity.
While the V5 frame is slightly heavier than the V4 with a narrower body, it still offers adequate space for mounting components. It’s the perfect budget frame for beginners and experienced pilots alike. To make the most of the Source One V5 frame, I recommend getting some 3D printed TPU parts available on Thingiverse.
Find the TBS Source One V5 frame from these vendors:
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
AOS 5 V2
The AOS5 V2 is a popular FPV drone frame for freestyle with a focus on performance. The new version offers improved arm geometry, a three-point motor mounting system, which improves stiffness and resonance performance. It also has versatile electronics mounting options, supporting 30x30mm, 25.5×25.5mm, and 20x20mm boards. It has enough space to accommodate the HDZero Freestyle VTX and the DJI full-sized FPV air units.
The frame demonstrates exceptional noise performance and prop wash handling, allowing for less software filtering and improved flight performance. However, it may be slightly more complex than other frames when it comes to building and repairing. And the arms are more prone to damage in crashes, more specifically at the joints.
Get the AOS 5 V2 frame here:
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-7mxh
NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-npw0
GEPRC Mark 5
The GEPRC Mark5 is designed for sturdiness and durability. It features an optional squashed X and deadcat configurations with a 225mm wheelbase and a weight of 130 grams. It showcases exceptional build quality, boasting a robust aluminum frame, 2.5mm carbon top and bottom plates, and 5mm thick arms. Constructed with aircraft-grade 7075 alloy aluminum, the GEPRC Mark 5’s camera cage is stronger, harder, and more durable than carbon fiber alternatives. As the area where most impacts occur, this metal design offers superior durability. Additionally, the “truck bed” design accommodates larger batteries, enabling longer flight times.
The Mark5 features a split top-deck design that allows easy access to electronics without removing the entire GoPro mount. The top plate connects to the metal brace and bottom plate, providing rigidity and flexibility. This two-plate design, similar to the ImpulseRC Apex, offers several advantages, including a centralized center of gravity, improved rotation, and enhanced durability. With only two screws per arm, the lightweight arms attach to the frame for a rigid structure. These 5mm thick carbon arms are 10mm wide at their narrowest point, ensuring a well-designed and durable frame.
DJI O3 Version
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-9wcu
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DFl9FBP
Normal Version (for 19x19mm camera)
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-mu18
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-j00o
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DBEBnON
HGLRC Sector D5/X5
The HGLRC Sector 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 micro-sized FPV cameras, have multiple mounting holes for stacks and video transmitters, and feature a locking wedge that locks arms in position, improves stiffness and reducing vibrations.
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. Both frames weigh approximately the same at around 120g. 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 HGLRC Sector frames are solid for 5-inch builds, with quality components and design features.
Purchase the Sector D5 here:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeULU7T
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-zavn
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-lsed
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LDlroH
Purchase the Sector X5 here:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DE9AsUl
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-zatz
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-t3i5
Amazon: https://amzn.to/42a5SdC
FC and ESC
Speedybee F405 V3 – Cheapest Worth Having Stack
The Speedybee F405 V3 is a cost-effective stack offering decent performance. Boasting modern features, it supports both analogue and DJI FPV systems, including a built-in Betaflight OSD chip for analogue FPV. The stack also features a built-in RGB LED control system, customizable with a single press of the boot button.
Though the F405 V3’s F4 processor is slower than F7 and H7 processors as explained in my FC Processor guide, it’s sufficient for running a 4K looptime, which arguably performs similarly to 8K. The F405 V3’s additional memory also enhances longevity compared to the faster F722 processor with half the memory.
You can check out my full review for more information.
Get the whole Stack, Speedybee F405 V3 FC + 50A BLHeli_S 4in1 ESC
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-szri
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDolH5v
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-oibq
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3FdpdlQ
Speedybee: https://oscarliang.com/product-z1sb
Get just the FC, Speedybee F405 V3 FC
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-hbaf
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-vrin
NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-3dpx
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
EMAX ECO II 2207 (Cheapest Worth Having)
Rumors suggest that Emax is selling the ECO II motors at a loss, trying to match the cheapest motors on the market. Priced at only $16, the Emax ECO II has been proven to be one of the best budget FPV motors over the years.
While not the best motor for raw performance, the ECO II is likely the cheapest worth having, making it a great choice for beginners or those building a basher. This motor is also extremely efficient, making it a good option if flight time is important to you.
Emax offers 1700KV and 1900KV for 6S, 2400KV for 4S, and a 2306 motor size. However, the larger 2207 stator size is recommended for its increased power and responsiveness at the same price point.
Product Page:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DBfROTx
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-6vdt
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-8mns
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-zlmz
NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-vc8d
iFlight Xing2 2207/2306 – My Choice for Freestyle
iFlight’s Xing series was one of the best FPV drone motors, and the new Xing2 series for 2022 is even better. The Xing2 2306 and 2207 motors boast a unique curved unibody motor bell for durability, a single-piece titanium alloy motor shaft, robust 9x4x4 bearings, single-strand winding, and a damping ring between the bell and bearing to improve durability. With high torque, the Xing2 motors offer power, responsiveness, and snappiness in flight. At $21 per motor, you get top-tier performance usually found in $30 motors, making it excellent value.
iFlight Xing2 2306:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DBE0xId
RDQ: 1755KV | 2555KV
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-4v2v
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3F4dBQb
iFlight Xing2 2207:
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)
I love the HQ 5×4.3×3 for its linear throttle response, which gives me very precise control through the whole throttle range. The responsiveness and grip are just awesome, the quad feels snappy and connected to the sticks.
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)
For a good racing prop, responsiveness and thrust output play a big part. To be responsive, the prop should be relatively light weight, and the weight distribution of the blade has to be optimized in order for RPM to change quickly.
Get the Gemfan Hurricane 51466-3 from:
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDe02Ep
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-c2bj
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2OvWfSF
Banggood: https://oscarliang.com/product-51z8
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-cn2c
HQ 5.1×2.5×3 (Best for Cinematic)
If you prioritise smoothness and efficiency over raw power, these props are for you. The HQ 5.1×2.5×3 is an extremely efficient props based on my static thrust tests, and the prop wash handling is second to none.
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
DAL Cyclone 5045C (Most Durable)
Not necessarily the best propellers in terms of performance, but they are cheap, durable and offers decent performance, it’s good enough for daily practice and 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 – Budget Option #1
For beginners, investing in top-tier batteries may not be necessary since you won’t need all that power, and crashes are more likely to damage them. Choosing a cost-effective option is a smarter choice during the learning phase.
GNB has been a reliable budget option in the FPV drone world for a long time. Many batteries available in the market are actually rebranded from GNB, demonstrating the industry’s confidence in their products.
Product Page
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
CNHL – Budget Option #2
Alongside GNB, CNHL (China Hobby Line) is another great budget battery that’s available internationally. 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-tp50
4S 1500mAh: https://oscarliang.com/product-42re
6S 1100mAh: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmYD5Sv
Other voltage/capacity: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_De2PbUv
RDQ Series – Great Performer 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
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, some users report faster performance degradation compared to other batteries. However, if you’re seeking top-notch performance and are willing to pay a premium, the Tattu R-Line is worth considering.
6S 1200mAh:
RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-f80m
GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-38v6
AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmJXvoD
4S 1300mAh:
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/