Review: Radiomaster TX16S MK3 – The Ultimate FPV Radio, But Should You Upgrade?

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Radiomaster has released a lot of great radios in the past, most of them have been solid, but each also came with compromises. After spending time with the Radiomaster TX16S MK3, I feel this radio is no exception — it has clear strengths and a few drawbacks. You should read this review before buying. Here’s my hands-on take on Radiomaster’s latest flagship EdgeTX radio, covering its design, features, ergonomics, drawbacks, and who it’s for.

New to FPV? Learn the basics of radio transmitters and how to choose one in this beginner’s guide: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/

Where to Buy

Get the TX16S MK3 radio from these vendors:

MAX Edition

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3lVJhof
• Radiomaster: https://oscarliang.com/product-0qy9
• Banggood: Link

Standard Edition

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3h74rYn
• Radiomaster: https://oscarliang.com/product-qcty

The radio comes with the following accessories:

• Carry case
• 18650 battery tray
• 2× replacement shoulder panels
• USB-C cable
• Screen protector
• 1.5mm hex wrench
• Low-tension gimbal springs
• 2× gimbal stick set screws
• Neck strap (lanyard)
• Stickers
• Manual

Should You Get the Standard or MAX Version?

There are two versions:

• TX16S MK3 (Standard)
• TX16S MK3 MAX (the one I’m reviewing here)

When Radiomaster asked which version I wanted to review, of course I chose the more expensive model, duh :) But is that the version you should buy? Let’s break down the differences first.

Apart from the gimbals, the “premium upgrades” are mostly cosmetic. The core hardware — CPU, screen, internal RF module, and antenna— is identical between these models, meaning features and performance are the same. The Standard version is also lighter, which is a nice bonus.

However, if you’re set on the AG02 gimbals, the MAX version is actually a good deal. Buying the AG02 separately costs more, and you’d have to install them yourself. With the MAX, you save about $20 and skip the hassle. The AG02 gimbals are among the best in the business — all CNC machined aluminum, premium feel, and extremely smooth. The V6 Hall gimbals on the Standard version are more basic, but still very capable and more than good enough for most pilots.

You really can’t go wrong with either — it comes down to budget and how much you care about premium gimbals. If gimbals aren’t a priority, the Standard version offers better value for sure.

Specifications

• Color: Black / Red / Blue / Gold
• Input Voltage: 6.6–8.4V DC
• Firmware: EdgeTX (requires 3.0.0 or higher)
• Built-in RF Module: ExpressLRS (2 × LR1121)
• Frequency: ISM 2.4GHz and Sub-G 900MHz
• Channels: Up to 16
• Gimbals: AG02 CNC Hall sensor gimbals (MAX version)
• MicroSD Slot: Yes (SD card not included)
• Internal Storage: 4GB onboard flash
• Display: 5-inch IPS touchscreen (800 × 480)
• Battery Options (Batteries not included):
  • Two 3.7V 18650 Li-ion cells
  • 21700 Li-ion 5000mAh battery
  • 2S 7.4V 6200mAh LiPo
• Upgrade Method: USB / EdgeTX Companion software
• Module Bay: JR-compatible module bay
• Dimensions: 200 × 178 × 88mm
• Weight: 864g (MAX Version, without battery)

Storage Case Is Not Safe

To my disappointment, one of the switches was broken on arrival.

The TX16S MK3 doesn’t use gimbal or switch protectors — it only comes with some small foam padding inside the storage case. The case itself is very strong and tough, but clearly not strong enough to withstand the abuse it received during shipping.

So don’t throw the case around with the radio inside. Even though the storage case looks robust, the switches can still get damaged.

It’s possible to replace broken switches yourself, but Radiomaster hasn’t released replacement parts for this radio yet, so I’m patiently waiting.

New Design: Rounded Housing with a HUGE Power Button

Coming from the original TX16S and TX16S MK2, the TX16S MK3 feels like a redesign rather than just an update. The radio is slimmer in width and features a carbon-fiber-style finish (not real carbon fibre, just paint).

The huge power button in the center really stands out. I guess Radiomaster made it larger in case you can’t find it :D Joke aside, I’m not a big fan of this design choice — does it really need to be that big? Of course, aesthetics is subjective.

With the carbon-fiber-style finish, it feels closer to the TX15 than the previous TX16S models. It’s still a full-size radio packed with switches, maintaining the “do-everything” nature that made the TX16 series popular with FPV pilots, RC plane flyers, car drivers, and boat users.

The MAX version has premium leather-like grips with stitching and a high-end finish.

The back handle is plastic and foldable. It’s not CNC aluminum like the MKII MAX— not to cut costs, but because Radiomaster actually integrated an antenna inside the handle.

There’s a JR module bay on the back for external RF modules if needed. One caveat: if you use a bulky external module (like a large Crossfire module), it may prevent the radio from sitting flat on a bench when the handle is folded down. With normal-sized modules, it’s fine — just something to be aware of. That said, most users will be perfectly happy with the internal RF module, which can output up to 1W on both 2.4GHz and 900MHz, making an external module unnecessary for many pilots.

The battery charging port (USB-C) is located under a rubber flap on top. There are also trainer port and headphone port.

The Largest Touchscreen I’ve Seen

One of the most noticeable upgrades is the 5-inch touchscreen. It’s significantly larger than the screens on older TX16S radios — or any radios with color touchscreens as a matter of fact.

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Viewing angles are excellent. Even when tilted, the display remains readable, and it’s bright enough to see outdoors. Touch input is responsive without being overly sensitive. There’s also a built-in ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts brightness, which is helpful if you frequently fly both indoors and outdoors.

Personally I prefer black-and-white screens because I rarely needed color screens. Those displays are simpler, do everything I need, and consume less power, offering longer battery life.

However, color screens do have advantages. You can personalize themes, use custom images for different models, and run more advanced LUA scripts with graphics and visual layouts. The touchscreen also makes navigating menus more intuitive.

One caveat: the MK3’s larger screen means some telemetry scripts may need updates to display correctly. Make sure your favorite scripts are supported before buying.

Internal RF Module

The biggest selling point of the TX16S MK3 is probably its ExpressLRS Gemini Xrossband capability (Gemini-X). The built-in 1W ExpressLRS RF module is dual-band (2.4GHz + 900MHz), just like the GX12. This makes it one of the most capable radios available in terms of RF performance — maximizing range, redundancy, interference resistance, and overall link reliability.

What is Gemini-X?

Gemini-X is similar to standard Gemini mode, but instead of transmitting packets on the same band, it transmits simultaneously on 2.4GHz and 900MHz. This provides additional redundancy and improved link robustness.

Here’s a detailed explanation of the differences: https://oscarliang.com/expresslrs-gemini/#Gemini-Xcrossband-Gemini-X

Where’s the Second Antenna?

You might wonder: Doesn’t Gemini use two antennas? Why do I only see one?

Don’t be fooled by the single foldable antenna on top — there’s actually a second antenna cleverly integrated into the back handle of the radio.

Receiver Compatibility

To use Gemini X mode, you need receivers that support Gemini X. However, the TX16S MK3 also works perfectly with standard ExpressLRS receivers that do not support Gemini X.

Learn more about ELRS receivers and antenna modes here: https://oscarliang.com/expresslrs-receivers/

Will There Be a 4-in-1 Version?

Many people ask whether there will be a version with a 4in1 internal module. I’m not 100% certain, but it seems unlikely. Radiomaster hasn’t used 4in1 modules in most of their recent releases, and demand for multiprotocol modules is declining as more pilots move to ExpressLRS.

If you still need legacy protocol support, you can install an external 4in1 module in the JR module bay.

Controls, Switches & Custom Buttons

Just like previous TX16S models, the MK3 comes with a LOT of switches — more than enough for most pilots.

From left to right:

• SF (2-position)
• SE (3-position)
• SA (3-position)
• SB (3-position)
• S1 (pot)
• S2 (pot)
• SC (3-position)
• SD (3-position)
• SG (3-position)
• SH (momentary)

Radiomaster moved the two sliders to the back (RS and LS), which I think is a great design choice because they’re easier to access. Both the pots and sliders have strong center detents.

There are also 6 trim buttons, and they can be programmed as additional controls.

Don’t forget the 6 custom buttons above the screen. These have RGB LEDs backlights, and are fully programmable. In EdgeTX, you can map them to channels, scripts, or functions, and even change LED colors per model.

Additional features include:

• Built-in gyro (can be used for triggering switches, pan/tilt camera gimbals, or telemetry callouts by simply tilting your radio)
• Microphone (for future expansion)
• Haptic feedback motor

This is one of the most customizable radios I’ve used in terms of controls. Realistically, many FPV pilots won’t use most of these features and switches — I personally use only 4–6 for FPV drones — but for fixed-wing pilots or advanced setups, the extra controls would come in handy.

Shoulder switch panel can be replaced if you don’t like having the slider on the back.

Gimbals and LED Rings

If you fly a lot and have the budget, AG01 and AG02 are among the best gimbals you can get. They’re extremely smooth, precise, and easy to adjust. Spring tension can be adjusted directly on the gimbals — no need to open the radio.

I only wish they used the softer spring as default – the gimbals still feel a little too strong for my taste after loosening them. I will probably swap out the spring at some point, it comes with softer springs you can replace.

They also include RGB LED rings. While they might sound flashy, they can be useful. You can use them for model identification (display a different color per model), or program different colors based on flight modes, switches, or radio status using Special Functions. And if you don’t like them, you can simply turn them off.

Ergonomics

If I had to guess, the TX16S MK3 feels like it was designed by someone who is a thumber (controls the sticks using thumbs only).

The TX16S MK3 feels more natural for thumbers, but as a hybrid pincher, I don’t find it the most comfortable radio to hold.

It shares a similar issue with the TX15 — it’s bottom heavy. The TX16S MK3 is even slightly worse because it’s the heaviest radio I’ve tested, approaching 1kg including batteries.

When pinching, you normally hold the radio near the gimbals (upper half of the radio), and since the battery bay is located in the lower half of the radio, it feels extra bottom heavy. Over long sessions, your hands may fatigue more quickly. A neck strap is strongly recommended, especially if you pinch or hybrid pinch.

What’s pinching and thumbing? Check out this guide about holding the sticks: https://oscarliang.com/pinch-thumb-stick/

I travel on foot a lot with my gear and sometimes fly for hours non-stop, so I care about weight and balance. In that regard, there’s room for improvement with the TX16S MK3. That said, this is a powerful, full-size radio packed with features, so some extra weight is inevitable. If you need all the features and capabilities, comfort may be a trade-off. Using a neck strap significantly improves usability though.

Another small annoyance is the back handle. When folded, it gets in the way while using the radio, and you have to push it away. It’s not a big issue when flying outdoors while standing, but when sitting down and resting the radio on your lap, the unfolded handle can feel awkward.

Also consider hand size and dexterity. Big radios are great, but reaching inner switches comfortably can vary from person to person. With my grip style (hybrid pinch), I didn’t find any deal-breaking reach issues. However, pilots with smaller hands may find the switches a bit far from the sticks compared to more compact radios.

One more minor annoyance: when picking up the radio from the sides, it’s easy to accidentally press the MDL (model) or SYS (system) buttons.

Processor Upgrade

Radiomaster upgraded the CPU to an STM32 H7, which is supposed to provide smoother operation and faster response. In practice, however, I didn’t notice a major difference in day-to-day use.

Memory

The radio includes 4GB of built-in storage and also has a microSD card slot if you need more storage. For most users, 4GB is more than enough. But if you use lots of audio files, images, or scripts, the SD card option is really handy.

Tear Down & Internal Design

The radio is easy to disassemble — there are 2 screws under each grip and 2 additional screws inside the external module bay, 6 screws in total.

The RF board is mounted on the back housing and connected to the main board via a cable, which can be easily unplugged.

The RF module cooling design is impressive. In addition to a heatsink, there are airflow ducts and active cooling to help maintain performance at high RF output levels.

All switches and gimbals connect to the main board via plugs, making replacement straightforward when needed.

I like the clean, modular PCB layout — it clearly makes the radio easier to repair and maintain.

There are two holes on the back housing covered with removable plugs. I assume these are for mounting SMA connectors if you prefer 3rd party antennas.

There are also two screw holes on the bottom. I’m guessing these are for future waist support or tray-style accessories, similar to what we’ve seen on the TX15.

Battery & Charging

The TX16S MK3 includes a battery holder for two 18650 Li-ion cells.

Note: Batteries are not included. Both button-top and flat-top cells work. I recommend RadioMaster’s 18650 3200mAh cells: https://oscarliang.com/product-ykiv

The battery bay is large (93 × 58 × 21mm) and can even fit Radiomaster’s 6200mAh LiPo pack if you want extended runtime: https://oscarliang.com/product-65gx

You can charge the batteries inside the radio via USB-C (10W). A built-in smart battery management circuit balances the two cells automatically. Fully charging two 18650 3200mAh cells from empty takes around 2.5 hours.

One small issue though, battery voltage reporting seems slightly low out of the box, but you can easily calibrate it in Radio Settings → Hardware.

Power Consumption

Let’s test the current draw at different RF power levels, to determine how long the battery lasts.

Gemini mode on, screen brightness minimum.

At 1W RF power, two 18650 3200mAh cells should last roughly 80 minutes or less. At 10mW, runtime can stretch to around 4.5 hours. Hence, enabling dynamic power in ExpressLRS LUA script is wise if you want good range while maximizing battery life, especially if you plan to fly more than an hour.

FPV Simulator Support

The USB-C port for charging is also used for simulators, and the radio charges while connected to your computer— very convenient. With low screen brightness and the internal RF module turned off, you can play FPV sims virtually forever without running low on battery.

When plugged into a computer, the radio prompts you to select a USB mode. Choose Joystick, and it’s recognized immediately on the computer. I did need to calibrate the gimbals in the game for the first time, which is normal when using a new radio.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the TX16S MK3?

The TX16S MK3 offers:

• ExpressLRS Gemini X dual-band
• Massive color touchscreen
• Excellent build quality
• Premium gimbals
• A huge number of controls

However, it’s not for everyone.

First off, it’s a heavy radio, which affects ergonomics. And some features are simply overkill for a lot of users — for example, the large color screen, or Gemini X when standard 2.4GHz-only ELRS is already sufficient for most pilots (even for long range).

Alternatives to Consider

• Budget option: RadioMaster T8L (review: https://oscarliang.com/radiomaster-t8l/)
• Compact with full-size gimbals: Jumper T20S (review: https://oscarliang.com/jumper-t20-radio/)
• Compact with Gemini: RadioMaster GX12 (review: https://oscarliang.com/radiomaster-gx12/)
• Full-size without Gemini: RadioMaster TX15 (review: https://oscarliang.com/radiomaster-tx15-max/)

And if your current radio works well, there’s really no need to upgrade.

But if you want one of the most feature-packed transmitters available today — for FPV drones, planes, cars, or boats — the TX16S MK3 is arguably the most capable all-round radio on the market right now. Get it rom these vendors:

TX16S MK3 MAX

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3lVJhof
• Radiomaster: https://oscarliang.com/product-0qy9

TX16S MK3 Standard

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3h74rYn
• Radiomaster: https://oscarliang.com/product-qcty