For long-range FPV flying, a video transmitter (VTX) with high output power is essential for achieving greater range and a stable signal. However, high-power VTX units can be expensive. That’s why I was intrigued when I found the Ultra 1.6W VTX—possibly the cheapest option on the market boasting an impressive 1.6W output for only $22. I decided to give it a try and see how it performs.
New to FPV? Learn about video transmitters in our buyer’s guide: https://oscarliang.com/video-transmitter/
Table of Contents
Where to Buy
You can buy the Ultra1600 VTX on AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmxIABp
Note that this VTX is unbranded, so it’s difficult to gauge the quality control, and customer support may be lacking if issues arise. That’s one reason for its low price, so keep this in mind when considering it.
The Ultra1600 VTX arrives in minimalist packaging, which includes the VTX itself, an MMCX to SMA adapter cable, and the necessary harness for connecting to the flight controller. While the packaging is simple, the lack of a protective box could be concerning for those worried about potential damage during shipping.
Specifications
The Ultra1600 VTX is packed with features that make it an attractive choice for FPV enthusiasts:
- Frequency: 5.8GHz 7 Bands 56 Channels
- Video Format: PAL / NTSC
- Input Voltage: DC 7-36V (2-8S Battery)
- BEC: 5V@600mA (Powers for FPV camera)
- Protocol: IRC Tramp
- Antenna Connector: MMCX connector
- Cable Connector: GH1.25-6P connector
- Output Power: 25mW/400mW/800mW/1600mW
- Microphone: Built-in microphone
- Mounting Holes: 30.5mm x 30.5mm (M3)
- Size: 36.5mm x 36.5mm x 12mm
- Weight: 15g (without cable), 18.5 including cables and antenna adapter
Closer Look
On closer inspection, it’s clear that the Ultra1600 VTX is designed with long-range flights in mind. The VTX features a massive heatsink to help manage heat during operation, especially at higher power levels. The unit also supports the IRC Tramp protocol, making it easy to adjust settings via the OSD menu, including channel and power levels.
Notably, the VTX accepts a wide voltage input from 2S to 8S, making it versatile for various drone setups. It also includes a built-in microphone for real-time audio feedback, although I haven’t tested the audio quality yet as it’s not a critical feature for my flying needs.
Power Output Testing
Using the ImmersionRC Power Meter V2, I tested the Ultra 1W6 VTX’s power output. The results were ok for a $20 VTX, though the 25mW level was considerably higher than expected, which might be an issue for those who need precise power levels. However, for long-range flying, where higher power settings are often preferred, this isn’t a significant drawback.
The VTX didn’t quite reach the advertised 1.6W output; the maximum output was around 1.05W. While this is less than the claimed power, it still offers substantial range. Using our FPV range calculator, with a 9dBi patch antenna on your goggles and a 2dBi omni-directional antenna on your quad, the estimated range is around 4.5km. Compared to a true 1.6W VTX like the iFlight Blitz which offers 5.5km in this example—the difference is only 18%.
| R1 | R2 | R3 | R4 | R5 | R6 | R7 | R8 | |
| 25mW | 35 | 36 | 32 | 34 | 37 | 44 | 48 | 48 |
| 400mW | 360 | / | / | / | / | / | / | 378 |
| 800mW | 685 | / | / | / | / | / | / | 676 |
| 1600mW | 1050 | / | / | / | / | / | / | 1010 |
Power Consumption
Here’s a breakdown of the power consumption when powering the VTX at 9V:
- 25mW: 0.18A (1.6W)
- 400mW: 0.45A (4.1W)
- 800mW: 0.68A (6.1W)
- 1600mW: 0.88A (7.9W)
You can power this VTX directly from the battery, thanks to its wide voltage support from 2S to 8S. However, if you choose to power it from a 9V BEC on your flight controller, ensure the BEC can handle at least 1A or higher when using maximum output power settings.
VTX Table
Changing the VTX channel, band, and power settings can be done using the physical push button on the VTX. However, deciphering the settings by counting LED blinks can be cumbersome. The best approach is to set up VTX Control and use the OSD menu for adjustments. Learn more about VTX Control: https://oscarliang.com/vtx-control/
To do this, you’ll need to upload a VTX table to your Betaflight flight controller. Unfortunately, the seller doesn’t provide a VTX table, and I couldn’t find one online. However, I managed to figure it out. Learn more about VTX table: https://oscarliang.com/smartaudio-tramp-vtx-control-vtxtables/
Simply copy the following code snippet in the CLI, connect the IRC wire to a spare UART (serial port) and configure that port for IRC Tramp and VTX Control should be good to go.
# vtxtable
vtxtable bands 5
vtxtable channels 8
vtxtable band 1 BOSCAM_A A CUSTOM 5865 5845 5825 5805 5785 5765 5745 5725
vtxtable band 2 BOSCAM_B B CUSTOM 5733 5752 5771 5790 5809 5828 5847 5866
vtxtable band 3 BOSCAM_E E CUSTOM 5705 5685 5665 5645 5885 5905 5925 5945
vtxtable band 4 FATSHARK F CUSTOM 5740 5760 5780 5800 5820 5840 5860 5880
vtxtable band 5 RACEBAND R CUSTOM 5658 5695 5732 5769 5806 5843 5880 5917
vtxtable powerlevels 4
vtxtable powervalues 25 400 800 1600
vtxtable powerlabels 25 400 800 1W6
save
It’s worth noting that while there’s mention of 5 power levels, including 200mW, this doesn’t seem to work. There are only four power levels: 25mW, 400mW, 800mW, and 1600mW.
Final Thoughts
Long-range VTX units with similar specifications can cost upwards of $45, such as the iFlight Blitz 1.6W VTX) or the Speedybee TX1600. The unbranded Ultra 1.6W VTX, at half that price, offers a budget-friendly alternative. Although it doesn’t quite deliver the full 1.6W output, the range difference is only about 18% on paper.
You can buy the Ultra1600 VTX on AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmxIABp
Overall, the Ultra VTX is worth considering for long range FPV pilots on a tight budget. It’s best suited for larger builds like 5″ and 7″ quads due to its weight and cooling needs.
2 comments
There is also a 2.5W version for $3 more..
I saw that one too, but there’s no chance a VTX can sustain that high power without active cooling (like a fan) in such small form factor. I might get one and test it out someday but 1W of power is not too bad for $22.