How to Choose a FlySky Radio for Your RC Car or Plane

Choose a FlySky radio by protocol first, then by channel count. AFHDS 2A radios such as the FS-i6X suit planes and FPV drones. ANT radios such as the FS-G7P+ suit cars, trucks, and crawlers. The FS-i6X costs $32.99 with receiver options, and the FS-G7P+ costs $30.99 with the FS-R11P receiver included.

Quick facts

Fact	Value
AFHDS 2A radios	FS-i6X, FS-i4, FS-GT3C
ANT radio	FS-G7P+ with FS-R11P receiver
FS-i6X band	2.408 to 2.475GHz, 135 channels
FS-G7P+ range	300m or more on the ground
FS-G7P+ weight	305g body
Cheapest FlySky receiver here	$11.50 for the FS-GR3E

What is the difference between AFHDS 2A and ANT?

AFHDS 2A is the FlySky protocol for air radios. It hops across 135 channels in the 2.4GHz band to avoid interference.

ANT is the FlySky protocol for surface radios. The FS-G7P+ uses ANT with the FS-R11P receiver for cars and boats.

The two protocols do not mix. An AFHDS 2A receiver will not bind to an ANT radio, and an ANT receiver will not bind to an AFHDS 2A radio.

Which FlySky radio fits a crawler or truck?

The FS-G7P+ fits crawlers, trucks, and cars. Its wheel and trigger layout suits ground driving, and it carries 10 channels.

It includes the FS-R11P receiver with 11 PWM outputs. That covers steering, throttle, lights, winch, and more without an expander.

Its ground range is 300m or more with a clear line of sight. Its 305g body and built-in antenna survive rough handling.

Which FlySky radio fits a plane or FPV drone?

The FS-i6X fits planes, gliders, helicopters, and FPV drones. Its stick layout gives fine control of four flight axes.

It ships with receiver options such as the FS-iA6B with 6 channels. The FS-iA10B adds 10 channels for larger models.

Its stick resolution is 4096 steps. That fine resolution shows up as smooth throttle and steering response.

How do you pick the right FlySky receiver?

Match the protocol, then the channel count. The FS-GR3E is a 3 channel AFHDS receiver for surface vehicles at $11.50.

The FS-iA6B is a 6 channel AFHDS 2A receiver for planes and helicopters at $17.40.

The FS-R6B is a 6 channel receiver for planes and helicopters at $15.50. Check your radio manual for the exact receiver list.

What should you check before you order?

Confirm the receiver is in the box. Some listings sell the transmitter alone, and some include the receiver.

Confirm the battery type. The FS-i6X takes 4 AA batteries, while the FS-G7P+ takes 4 AA batteries or a 2S lithium battery.

Confirm the model memory you need. The FS-G7P+ stores 20 models with 512KB of memory, doubled from the older 256KB.

How the options compare

Radio	Channels	Protocol	Vehicle	Price
FlySky FS-G7P+	10	ANT	Car, truck, boat	$30.99
FlySky FS-i6X	6 to 10	AFHDS 2A	Plane, FPV drone	$32.99
FlySky FS-i4	4	2.4GHz	Plane, car	$45.50
FlySky FS-GT3C	3	2.4GHz	Car	$71.50

How do you bind a FlySky receiver to your radio?

1. Connect the bind plug to the receiver bind port.
2. Power the receiver and watch for a fast blinking LED.
3. Hold the radio bind button while you switch the radio on.
4. Wait for a solid LED, remove the bind plug, and test each channel.

Parts that fit this guide

Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 10, 2026. In-stock parts ship from New York in 1 to 2 business days. Check the product page for the current price before you order.

FS-G7P+ 10CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter, 300M, with FS-R11P Receiver ($30.99)

Wheel radio at $30.99. Ten ANT channels with the FS-R11P receiver and 300m ground range.

FS-i6X 10CH 2.4GHz AFHDS 2A RC Transmitter with Receiver Options ($32.99)

Stick radio at $32.99. Six channels by default, expandable to 10, on AFHDS 2A.

FS-GR3E 2.4Ghz 3CH Receiver (Surface Vehicles) ($11.50)

Three channel surface receiver at $11.50 for cars and trucks on AFHDS.

FS-iA6B 6CH Receiver (Airplane/Heli) ($17.40)

Six channel airplane receiver at $17.40 on AFHDS 2A.

FS-R6B 2.4Ghz 6CH Receiver (Airplane/Heli) ($15.50)

Six channel airplane and helicopter receiver at $15.50.

Shop the full range: Radio Transmitters at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use an FS-iA6B receiver with the FS-G7P+?

No. The FS-iA6B uses AFHDS 2A, and the FS-G7P+ uses ANT. Use an ANT receiver such as the FS-R11P with the FS-G7P+.

How many models can the FS-G7P+ store?

It stores 20 models. Its memory is 512KB, doubled from the 256KB in the older G7P.

Does the FS-i6X work for FPV drones?

Yes. It pairs with AFHDS 2A receivers and suits FPV drones, planes, gliders, and helicopters.

What is the cheapest FlySky receiver in this guide?

The FS-GR3E at $11.50. It is a 3 channel receiver for surface vehicles.

Sources

• FlySky FS-i6X user manual
• FlySky FS-G7P+ user guide
• FlySky FS-G7P+ specifications (FlySky Europe)

Last updated: November 10, 2026.

How to Choose Your First RC Radio Transmitter

Pick a 6 channel radio with a receiver included for your first RC build. Six channels cover steering, throttle, and four extra functions such as lights or a winch. A 2.4GHz radio with a matching receiver avoids protocol mistakes. The FlySky FS-i6X costs $32.99 and ships with receiver options for planes, cars, and FPV drones.

Quick facts

Fact	Value
Channels to start with	6 channels for most first builds
Radio band	2.4GHz on every radio in this guide
FS-i6X channels	6 channels by default, 10 with setup
FS-i6X radio power	Less than 20dBm, per the manual
FS-G7P+ ground range	300m or more, per FlySky
Lowest price radio here	$18.53 for the HotRC DS-600

How many channels does a beginner need?

Three channels run a basic RC car. Channel 1 steers, channel 2 controls throttle, and channel 3 runs one extra function.

Six channels suit a first plane, boat, or crawler with accessories. The extra channels drive lights, a winch, a gyro gain, or flaps.

Ten channels fit complex builds with many servos and switches. A beginner rarely uses all ten on a first model.

Should a beginner pick a wheel radio or a stick radio?

Wheel radios suit cars, trucks, and crawlers. Your left hand steers with the wheel while your right hand works the trigger.

Stick radios suit planes, helicopters, and FPV drones. Two sticks give fine control of throttle, pitch, roll, and yaw.

Pick the shape that matches your vehicle. A stick radio can drive a car, but a wheel radio feels natural on the ground.

What does the radio protocol change?

The protocol is the language between radio and receiver. A receiver only works when it speaks the same protocol as the radio.

FlySky AFHDS 2A pairs the FS-i6X with FS-iA6B and FS-iA10B receivers. The FS-i6X manual lists 135 hopping channels on 2.4GHz.

FlySky ANT pairs the FS-G7P+ with the FS-R11P receiver. ANT is the newer FlySky surface protocol for cars and boats.

Check the protocol before you order a spare receiver. A mismatched receiver will not bind, even when the plug fits.

What do the FS-i6X specifications mean in practice?

The FS-i6X runs 6 channels by default and expands to 10 channels. Its manual lists a 2.408 to 2.475GHz band and 4096 step stick resolution.

It takes 4 AA batteries for 6V power. A low voltage warning sounds below 4.2V, so carry spare batteries to the field.

The radio weighs 392g and uses two 26mm antennas. Its FCC ID is N4ZFLYSKYI6X, printed in the manual specifications.

Can a beginner radio work with an FPV simulator?

Yes, if the radio has a USB or trainer port. The FS-G7P+ connects to simulators through its USB Type-C port with a cable.

Simulator practice costs no parts. You learn stick control and orientation before your first real flight or drive.

Confirm the simulator lists your radio model. A radio without a USB port needs a separate USB adapter dongle.

How the options compare

Radio	Channels	Protocol	Form	Price
HotRC DS-600	6	2.4GHz	Stick	$18.53
FlySky FS-G7P+	10	ANT	Wheel	$30.99
FlySky FS-i6X	6 to 10	AFHDS 2A	Stick	$32.99
FlySky FS-i4	4	2.4GHz	Stick	$45.50
FlySky FS-GT3C	3	2.4GHz	Wheel	$71.50

How do you bind a FlySky receiver?

1. Put the receiver in bind mode with its bind plug or button.
2. Hold the bind button on the transmitter while you switch it on.
3. Wait for the receiver LED to turn solid.
4. Remove the bind plug and test every channel before you drive.

Parts that fit this guide

Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 10, 2026. In-stock parts ship from New York in 1 to 2 business days. Check the product page for the current price before you order.

DS-600 6CH 2.4GHz Radio System with F-06A Receiver ($18.53)

Lowest price starter at $18.53. Six channels with the F-06A receiver included.

FS-G7P+ 10CH 2.4GHz RC Transmitter, 300M, with FS-R11P Receiver ($30.99)

Wheel radio at $30.99. Ten channels on ANT with the FS-R11P receiver and 300m ground range.

FS-i6X 10CH 2.4GHz AFHDS 2A RC Transmitter with Receiver Options ($32.99)

Stick radio at $32.99. Six channels by default, expandable to 10, on AFHDS 2A.

FS-i4 2.4GHz 4CH Transmitter and Receiver ($45.50)

Four channel set at $45.50 for simple planes and cars that need no extra channels.

FS-GT3C 2.4GHz 3CH Surface Radio System (Silver) ($71.50)

Three channel wheel radio at $71.50 for a basic surface vehicle with one accessory channel.

Shop the full range: Radio Transmitters at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.

Frequently asked questions

How many channels do I need for an RC crawler?

Three channels run steering, throttle, and one accessory. Six channels add room for a winch, lights, and a two speed gearbox.

Do all FlySky receivers work with all FlySky radios?

No. Match the protocol first. AFHDS 2A radios need AFHDS 2A receivers, and ANT radios need ANT receivers.

Is a 10 channel radio too much for a beginner?

No, if the price fits. You can use 6 channels now and grow into the rest. The FS-i6X starts at 6 channels by default.

What batteries does the FS-i6X use?

Four AA batteries for 6V power. The manual warns below 4.2V, so check voltage before each session.

Sources

• FlySky FS-i6X user manual
• FlySky FS-G7P+ user guide
• FlySky FS-G7P+ specifications (FlySky Europe)

Last updated: November 10, 2026.

How to Choose an ExpressLRS Receiver for FPV Drones

Pick an ExpressLRS receiver that matches your radio band, fits your build, and talks CRSF to your flight controller. Most FPV drones use a 2.4GHz nano receiver with a 500Hz refresh rate. The HappyModel EP1 costs $31.50, weighs 0.41g, and measures 10 by 10mm. Check firmware versions before you bind.

Quick facts

Fact	Value
Band in this guide	2.4GHz on every receiver listed
EP1 weight and size	0.41g, 10 by 10mm
RP1 refresh rate	500Hz, or F1000Hz in full rate mode
RP1 antenna	65mm T antenna on UFL
RP2 weight	0.55g with ceramic antenna
Lowest price receiver here	$18.57 for the HPXGRC ELRS receiver

Should you pick a 2.4GHz or a 900MHz receiver?

Most FPV pilots start with 2.4GHz. It suits racing, freestyle, and whoops with small antennas and fast packet rates.

The 900MHz band suits long range fixed wing and long range quads. It needs a matching 900MHz transmitter module on your radio.

The band must match on both ends. A 2.4GHz receiver will not bind to a 900MHz module, even when the firmware matches.

What is the difference between nano, diversity, and PWM receivers?

A nano receiver is a small serial receiver. It sends control data to the flight controller over CRSF on a UART.

A diversity receiver has two antennas and picks the stronger signal. The RadioMaster RP3 uses two antennas for that job.

A PWM receiver drives servos directly without a flight controller. The RadioMaster ER4 gives 4 PWM channels for planes and cars.

How do you wire an ExpressLRS receiver to a flight controller?

Use four wires: 5V, ground, TX, and RX. Cross the data wires so receiver TX goes to flight controller RX.

Pick a free UART and enable Serial RX on it in Betaflight. Set the receiver mode to Serial and the provider to CRSF.

CRSF needs a full UART in full duplex mode. Check that serialrx_inverted and serialrx_halfduplex are both off, then save.

What does refresh rate mean for an ELRS receiver?

Refresh rate is how often the receiver sends new stick data. The RP1 and RP2 run up to 500Hz, or F1000Hz in full rate mode.

A 500Hz rate sends a packet every 2ms. A 25Hz rate sends a packet every 40ms and suits long range cruising.

Higher rates feel more responsive in racing. Lower rates stretch range because each packet carries more error correction.

Why does firmware version matter before binding?

Transmitter and receiver major versions must match. ExpressLRS 3.x firmware will not bind to a 2.x receiver.

Flash both ends to the same major version before you bind. The ExpressLRS web flasher builds firmware in your browser.

A binding phrase also helps. Set the same phrase on the module and on every receiver, and they connect on power up.

How the options compare

Receiver	Weight	Antenna	Refresh rate	Price
HPXGRC ELRS	Not listed	External	Not listed	$18.57
HappyModel EP1	0.41g	T antenna	25 to 500Hz	$31.50
RadioMaster RP3	Not listed	Dual diversity	25 to 500Hz	$45.66
RadioMaster ER4	Not listed	T antenna	Not listed	$53.99
RadioMaster RP1 V2	2.2g with antenna	65mm T	500Hz / F1000Hz	$58.99
RadioMaster RP2 V2	0.55g	Ceramic	500Hz / F1000Hz	$61.99

How do you bind an ExpressLRS receiver with a phrase?

1. Flash the transmitter module and the receiver with the same binding phrase.
2. Flash both ends to the same ExpressLRS major version.
3. Power on the radio first, then power the receiver.
4. Wait for a solid LED and a C in the ExpressLRS Lua script.
5. Check in Betaflight that all channels move in the right direction.

Parts that fit this guide

Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 10, 2026. In-stock parts ship from New York in 1 to 2 business days. Check the product page for the current price before you order.

2.4G ExpressLRS ELRS Receiver for FPV Freestyle Long Range Drones ($18.57)

Lowest price ELRS receiver here at $18.57 for freestyle and long range builds.

HappyModel EP1 TCXO 2.4GHz ELRS Receiver, Ultra Light 0.41g, 10x10mm, 25Hz~500Hz Refresh Rate ($31.50)

Nano receiver at $31.50. It weighs 0.41g, measures 10 by 10mm, and runs 25 to 500Hz.

RadioMaster RP3 Diversity ExpressLRS ELRS 2.4GHZ Nano Receiver Dual Antenna ($45.66)

Diversity receiver at $45.66 with two antennas for a stronger link.

ER4 2.4GHz ExpressLRS PWM Receiver, 4CH, 10mW ($53.99)

PWM receiver at $53.99. Four channels drive servos directly with 10mW telemetry.

RadioMaster RP1 V2 ELRS Nano Receiver 2.4GHz CRSF 500Hz With 65mm UFL T Antenna For TX16S TX12 Boxer Zorro FPV Drone RC RX Kit ($58.99)

Nano receiver at $58.99 with a 65mm T antenna and 500Hz refresh rate.

RadioMaster RP2 V2 ExpressLRS ELRS Nano Receiver 2.4GHz CRSF 5V 0.55g Built-in Ceramic Antenna for FPV Drone Whoop RC Plane Part ($61.99)

Nano receiver at $61.99 with a built-in ceramic antenna at 0.55g for tight builds.

Shop the full range: ELRS Receivers at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bind one receiver to two radios?

Yes, if both radios share the same binding phrase and major firmware version. The receiver connects to whichever radio is on.

What if my receiver will not enter bind mode?

A receiver with a binding phrase set will not enter manual bind mode. Reflash it without a phrase, or set the same phrase on your radio.

Do I need telemetry for ELRS to work?

No. Control works without telemetry. Telemetry adds link quality and battery data back to your radio screen.

Which receiver is lightest in this guide?

The HappyModel EP1 at 0.41g. The RadioMaster RP2 follows at 0.55g with its ceramic antenna.

Sources

• RadioMaster RP1 and RP2 receiver manual
• HappyModel EP2 TCXO receiver manual
• ExpressLRS binding guide (iFlight)
• ExpressLRS web flasher

Last updated: November 10, 2026.

How to Use Heat Shrink Tubing and Wire on FPV Builds

Use heat shrink and wire on an FPV build with the right sizes. Heat shrink tubing shrinks 2 to 1 from 84C and covers 2.0 to 13.0 mm in the kit. Silicone wire runs -65 to +200C in 10 to 26 AWG. The 14AWG roll costs $15.99 for 20 ft and suits battery leads. Seal each joint before the flight.

Quick facts

Fact	Value
Heat shrink kit	2:1, 84C to 120C, 2.0 to 13.0 mm, from $5.13
Pre-cut tubing	3, 4.5, 7, 10 mm, 20 pieces, $1.99
Assortment	4 sizes, 5 packs of 20, $15.95
Kapton tape	To 400C, 2 to 35 mm, 35 m, from $6.99
14AWG wire	20 ft, $15.99, battery leads
VHB tape	5 to 30 mm, 3 m, from $5.99

What size heat shrink fits the joint?

Match the tube diameter to the joint before you shrink it.

The 3 mm tube fits signal wire and small plugs.

The 4.5 mm tube fits servo leads and ESC wires.

The 7 mm tube fits motor wires and mid-size joints.

The 10 mm tube fits battery leads and larger joints.

Each size costs $1.99 for 20 pre-cut pieces in red or black.

How hot must heat shrink get?

The kit tubing shrinks 2 to 1 and starts to shrink at 84C.

Full shrink needs 120C, and the tube runs -55C to +125C in use.

Dielectric strength is 15 kV, and tensile strength is 10.4 MPa.

The tubing is flame retardant polyolefin.

The kit covers 2.0, 2.5, 3.5, 5.0, 7.0, 10.0, and 13.0 mm diameters.

Which wire gauge fits FPV power leads?

Match the wire gauge to the current the lead must carry.

The table lists 14AWG at 32A and 16AWG at 22A for chassis wiring.

The 14AWG roll costs $15.99 for 20 ft and suits battery leads.

The 16AWG roll costs $14.99 for 20 ft and suits ESC wiring.

The 22AWG roll costs $11.99 for 45 ft and suits signal wire.

How do you protect a solder joint?

Cover the joint with heat shrink and seal it with heat.

Slide the tube over the joint before you solder the wires.

Heat the tube until it shrinks tight around the joint.

Kapton tape resists heat to 400C for work near a hot joint.

The tape comes in widths from 2 to 35 mm on a 35 m roll.

What tape holds an FPV build together?

Tape holds wires, parts, and bodies where screws do not fit.

VHB foam tape costs from $5.99 in widths from 5 to 30 mm.

It is waterproof, sound-dampening, and shock-absorbing on a 3 m roll.

Aluminum body tape costs $6.99 for 5 m and $11.99 for 10 m.

It is 50 mm wide with a glass mesh backing for strength.

How the options compare

Size or tape	Spec	Use	Price
Heat shrink, 3 mm	20 pieces	Signal wire	$1.99
Heat shrink, 4.5 mm	20 pieces	Servo and ESC wires	$1.99
Heat shrink, 7 mm	20 pieces	Motor wires	$1.99
Heat shrink, 10 mm	20 pieces	Battery leads	$1.99
Kit, 127 to 1600 pc	2.0 to 13.0 mm, 2:1	All joints	From $5.13
Assortment, 4 sizes	5 packs of 20	All joints	$15.95
Kapton tape	2 to 35 mm, 0.055 mm	Heat shielding	From $6.99
VHB tape	5 to 30 mm, 3 m	Mounting parts	From $5.99

How do you seal a solder joint with heat shrink?

1. Slide a piece of heat shrink onto the wire before you solder.
2. Solder the joint and let it cool.
3. Slide the tube over the joint so it covers the bare wire.
4. Heat the tube with a heat gun until it shrinks tight.
5. Check that the tube grips the wire on both ends.
6. Tug the wire once to check the joint before you fly.

Parts that fit this guide

In-stock parts ship from the New York, USA warehouse in 1-2 business days. Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 10, 2026.

Heat Shrink Tubing Assortment (127/1600 Pieces) ($5.13)

Heat shrink tubing kit from $5.13 for 164 pieces. It shrinks 2 to 1 from 84C and covers 2.0 to 13.0 mm in flame retardant polyolefin.

Heat Shrink Tubing Assortment, 4 Sizes ($15.95)

Heat shrink assortment at $15.95. It covers 10, 7, 4.5, and 3 mm in five packs of 20 pieces for the joints most builds need.

Kapton High-Temp Tape, 2-35mm ($6.99)

Kapton tape from $6.99 for a 35 m roll. It resists heat to 400C in widths from 2 to 35 mm at 0.055 mm thick.

VHB Double-Sided Foam Tape ($5.99)

VHB double-sided foam tape from $5.99. It is waterproof, sound-dampening, and shock-absorbing in widths from 5 to 30 mm.

Flexible 14AWG Silicone Wire (20ft) ($15.99)

Flexible 14AWG silicone wire at $15.99 for 20 ft. It suits battery leads and high-current wiring.

Shop the full range: Heat Shrink and Tape at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.

Frequently asked questions

What size heat shrink fits a battery lead?

Use the 10 mm tube for battery leads and larger joints. It costs $1.99 for 20 pre-cut pieces in red or black.

How hot must heat shrink get to shrink?

It starts to shrink at 84C and reaches full shrink at 120C. It runs -55C to +125C in use.

What wire gauge fits an FPV battery lead?

Use 14AWG wire for battery leads. The table lists 14AWG at 32A for chassis wiring, and the 20 ft roll costs $15.99.

When does Kapton tape fit instead of heat shrink?

Use Kapton tape near heat that would melt tubing. It resists heat to 400C in widths from 2 to 35 mm.

Sources

• Adafruit guide to excellent soldering
• SparkFun how to solder tutorial
• PowerStream wire size and ampacity table

Last updated: November 10, 2026.

Best Soldering Iron for RC Builds

A 60W digital soldering iron kit is the right start for RC builds. It costs $38.99, adjusts from 200C to 500C, and ships with 5 tips, tweezers, and solder wire. Start cheaper with the Plusivo Kit 7 at $13.99 when you solder occasionally and want a simple adjustable iron. Six bench picks follow.

Quick facts

Fact	Value
Pick for most RC builds	Plusivo Digital 21-in-1 kit, $38.99
Kit temperature range	200C to 500C
Budget iron kit	Kit 7, 5-in-1, $13.99
Budget iron price	$13.99
Mat heat rating	932F
Lowest price pick here	$5.81 (desoldering pump)

Which soldering iron suits RC wire and connectors?

A 60W digital iron suits RC wire and XT60 connectors, since it heats the joint fast. The digital kit costs $38.99 and adjusts from 200C to 500C.

The kit ships with an LED display, a ceramic heater, 5 tips, tweezers, and solder wire. One kit covers wire, plugs, and small board work.

A low wattage iron cannot heat a 14AWG joint before the heat spreads up the wire. Use 60W for battery leads and XT60 cups.

When is the digital kit worth $38.99?

Step up to the digital kit when you solder often and want a clear LED readout. It costs $38.99 and adjusts from 200C to 500C.

The digital kit uses 5 replaceable tips, so tips swap fast between jobs. The Kit 7 uses a single fixed tip.

Keep the Kit 7 for occasional builds, since it costs $25.00 less than the digital kit.

What temperature solders an XT60 joint?

Set the iron in the middle of its range for a 14AWG XT60 joint, then test on scrap wire. The digital kit adjusts from 200C to 500C, so the middle sits near 350C.

A joint that looks dull or grainy needs more heat or fresh solder. A shiny joint with a smooth fillet shows the temperature was right.

Tin the wire and the connector cup before you join them. Tinned parts need less time on the iron, so nearby insulation stays safe.

How do you hold the work while you solder?

Use helping hands to hold wire and plugs steady while both hands work the iron and solder. The helping hands station costs $31.99 and adds a magnifier with adjustable alligator clips.

The soldering starter kit costs $14.99 and adds a silicone mat, magnetic helping hands, and Kapton tape. It suits a first RC bench.

A magnetic mat keeps screws and small parts from rolling away. The silicone mat here is rated to 932F and costs $8.37.

How do you fix a bad solder joint?

Use a desoldering pump to pull molten solder off a bad joint. The aluminum pump costs $5.81, measures 190 by 20 mm, and works one-handed.

Add rosin flux paste to a dull joint and reheat it for a clean bond. The no-clean RMA-223 paste costs $6.64 in a 10cc syringe.

Wick or pump the joint clean before you try again, since old solder traps dirt. A clean pad takes new solder in seconds.

What bench gear protects the work surface?

A heat-resistant mat guards the bench from a hot iron and stray solder. The silicone mat is rated to 932 degrees F, so it handles iron tips without damage.

The starter kit mat pairs with magnetic helping hands and Kapton tape for $14.99. Kapton tape masks areas that must stay free of solder.

Clean the tip on brass wool after every joint, then tin it before you park the iron. A tinned tip at 350C transfers heat faster than a dry tip.

How the options compare

Pick	What it does	Key fact	Price
Plusivo Digital 21-in-1	Iron with LED display	200C to 500C	$38.99
Plusivo Kit 7	Adjustable iron	200C to 450C	$13.99
Helping hands station	Holds work, magnifier	Adjustable clips	$31.99
Soldering starter kit	Mat, hands, tape	3 pieces	$14.99
Desoldering pump	Removes solder	190 by 20 mm	$5.81
Flux paste	Cleans joints	10cc syringe	$6.64
Silicone mat	Guards bench	Rated to 932F	$8.37

How do you solder an XT60 connector with the digital kit?

1. Set the iron near 350C and let it reach temperature.
2. Tin the wire end and the XT60 cup with fresh solder.
3. Hold the wire in helping hands with the cup facing up.
4. Heat the cup, push the tinned wire in, and hold it still.
5. Let the joint cool, then tug the wire to check the bond.

Parts that fit this guide

In-stock parts ship from the New York, USA warehouse in 1-2 business days. Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 10, 2026.

Plusivo 60W Digital Soldering Iron Kit, 21-in-1 ($38.99)

60W digital soldering iron kit at $38.99. It adjusts from 200C to 500C and ships with 5 tips, tweezers, and solder wire.

Plusivo 60W Soldering Iron Kit 7, 5-in-1 ($13.99)

60W soldering iron kit at $13.99. It adjusts from 200C to 450C and ships with a stand, sponge, solder wire, and rosin flux paste.

Soldering Helping Hands Station with Magnifier ($31.99)

Helping hands station at $31.99. It adds a magnifier and adjustable alligator clips.

Soldering Starter Kit ($14.99)

Soldering starter kit at $14.99. It adds a silicone mat, magnetic helping hands, and Kapton tape.

Aluminum Desoldering Pump Solder Sucker ($5.81)

Aluminum desoldering pump at $5.81. It measures 190 by 20 mm and works one-handed.

Rosin Flux Paste, No-Clean, RMA-223, 10cc Syringe with Plunger & Needle Tip ($6.64)

Rosin flux paste at $6.64. It is no-clean RMA-223 in a 10cc syringe with a needle tip.

Maiyum 63/37 Rosin Core Solder Wire, 0.8mm, 100g ($17.99)

63/37 tin lead rosin core solder wire at $17.99. It is 0.8mm on a 100g spool and melts at 183C.

SRA 135 Rosin Paste Flux, 2oz Jar ($11.99)

Rosin paste flux at $11.99. It is a 2oz jar, made in USA.

Heat Resistant Magnetic Silicone Soldering Mat ($8.37)

Silicone soldering mat at $8.37. It is heat-resistant to 932F, anti-static, and magnetic.

Shop the full range: Tools and Soldering at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.

Frequently asked questions

What wattage soldering iron do I need for RC builds?

A 60W iron covers wire and XT60 connectors. It adjusts from 200C to 500C and costs $38.99 in the digital kit.

Is the digital kit better than the Kit 7?

It shows temperature on an LED display and adjusts to 500C. It costs $38.99, so it suits regular soldering. The Kit 7 at $13.99 covers occasional jobs.

Do I need flux paste for RC soldering?

Yes for dull or old joints. The no-clean RMA-223 paste costs $6.64 in a 10cc syringe and helps solder flow.

What holds the wire while I solder?

A helping hands station holds wire and plugs with adjustable clips. The station with magnifier costs $31.99.

Sources

• Adafruit guide to excellent soldering
• SparkFun how to solder tutorial
• PowerStream wire size and ampacity table

Last updated: November 10, 2026.