One of the most challenging aspects of getting into FPV drones is learning how to fly them effectively. FPV drone simulators provide an excellent solution, allowing you to practice and train without the risk of damaging your actual drone, even when the weather isn’t ideal. In this article, we’ll explore the various FPV drone simulators available on the market and help you determine which one best fits your needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build your skills or an experienced pilot wanting to refine your techniques, there’s a simulator out there for you.

What is an FPV Drone Simulator?

Imagine being able to fly an FPV drone in a vividly realistic virtual world. That’s exactly what FPV drone simulators offer. These are not just games; they are sophisticated training tools designed to mimic the experience of flying a real FPV drone.

While no simulator can perfectly replicate the thrill of real-life flying, they come incredibly close. FPV drone simulators enable pilots to improve their flying skills and learn freestyle tricks in a safe, crash-proof environment, regardless of the weather, 24/7.

In simulators, you can fearlessly perform tricks that might feel almost impossible in the real world. Whether you want to master flips, rolls, or complex maneuvers, these simulators provide the perfect platform to practice without the risk of damaging your equipment. With the ability to experiment and push your limits, FPV drone simulators are an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced pilots alike!

What You Need to Fly FPV Simulators?

Before diving into an FPV simulator, the first thing you should do is invest in a radio controller. I don’t recommend using a gaming console controller or a keyboard, as these options are pretty pointless; the skills you develop won’t translate to a real radio controller. Using a proper radio is the best way to build muscle memory and maximize the benefits of your training. Plus, you can continue to use the same radio to fly real drones later, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.

Choosing the Right Radio Controller

When selecting a radio controller, look for one that is compatible with the simulators you plan to use. Many modern controllers are designed to be plug-and-play, meaning you can easily connect them to your computer via USB. Once connected, the controller will show up as a gaming joystick, allowing you to jump right into the simulator without any complicated setup.

Plug-and-Play Convenience

The radios I suggest are plug-and-play with the simulators discussed on this page—simply connect the USB cable, and it will show up as a gaming joystick on your computer. Once connected, you should be able to use the radio in the simulator with ease; it’s that simple!

This ease of use allows you to focus on honing your flying skills rather than getting bogged down in technical setups. The more time you spend practicing with a proper radio, the more comfortable you’ll become with the controls, which will translate to better performance when flying real drones.

Workarounds for Non-USB Radios

If you have a radio that doesn’t support USB joystick functionality, there are workarounds available, such as using a flight controller and radio receiver. This setup can allow you to connect your existing equipment to the simulator, ensuring you can still practice effectively.

For example, you can use a flight controller that has a USB output and connect it to your computer. By binding your radio to the flight controller, you can simulate the experience of flying a real drone while using your familiar equipment. This method may require additional configuration, but it can be a great way to utilize your current gear.

Additional Accessories

While the radio controller is the most critical piece of equipment, consider investing in a few additional accessories to enhance your FPV simulator experience:

Headset or VR Goggles: If your simulator supports it, using a headset or VR goggles can provide a more immersive flying experience. This can help you get used to the FPV perspective, making the transition to real-life flying smoother.

Quality Monitor: If you prefer not to use goggles, a good monitor can also enhance your experience. Look for a monitor with a high refresh rate and low latency to ensure a responsive and enjoyable flying experience.

Comfortable Chair: Since you’ll likely spend a fair amount of time practicing, consider investing in a comfortable chair that supports good posture. This will help you stay focused and reduce fatigue during long practice sessions.

What’s STEAM?

STEAM is a popular digital distribution platform that hosts various games, including many FPV drone simulators. It serves as a one-stop shop where you can buy, play, and update your games seamlessly. The platform simplifies game management, ensuring that you’re always up to date with the latest patches and improvements, which is particularly important for simulators that frequently receive updates to enhance performance and fix bugs.

Benefits of Using Steam for FPV Drone Simulators

Easy Access and Management: Steam provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to browse, purchase, and manage your games. Once you’ve bought a simulator, it’s readily available in your library, and you can launch it with just a click.

Automatic Updates: One of the standout features of Steam is its automatic update system. Whenever a new patch or update is released for your simulator, Steam will download and install it automatically. This ensures that you always have the latest features and improvements without needing to check for updates manually.

Community Features: Steam offers a robust community platform where you can connect with other gamers. You can join forums, share tips, and even find friends to fly with in multiplayer modes. This community aspect can enhance your overall experience and provide valuable insights into improving your flying skills.

Steam Workshop: Many simulators on Steam support the Steam Workshop, allowing users to create and share custom content, such as new maps, drones, and challenges. This feature can significantly extend the lifespan of your simulator, providing endless opportunities for new experiences and challenges.

Consumer-Friendly Return Policy: Steam has a consumer-friendly return policy that allows refunds for games played for less than two hours. This is particularly useful for testing out a simulator to see if it meets your expectations. If you find that a simulator isn’t what you were hoping for, you can easily return it and try another option without any financial loss.

TRYP FPV

As one of the latest entrants in the FPV simulator market, Tryp FPV impresses with its fantastic graphics, expansive map sizes, and meticulous attention to detail. Priced at $17 on Steam, it offers a comprehensive simulation experience that many enthusiasts will appreciate. However, despite its advanced graphics, the simulator’s performance on non-gaming computers can be a concern, which may limit accessibility for some users.

Training Program Limitations

Unfortunately, the training program in Tryp FPV falls short of expectations, which could hinder the learning process for new pilots. While it may not provide the best foundation for beginners, experienced pilots will find it to be a dream to play. The simulator features moving objects, such as race cars and skiers, that you can follow with your drone, enhancing your freestyle and cinematic skills. Although the quads feel slightly heavy in the simulator, physics is reasonably close to real-life flying, allowing for a more authentic experience. Additionally, you can adjust many drone parameters to fine-tune the simulation to your liking.

Personal Experience

Tryp FPV is perhaps one of my favorite sims of 2023, thanks to its stunning graphics and engaging freestyle/cinematic elements. It particularly appeals to those with powerful gaming PCs seeking expansive flying environments. With the right graphics settings, it truly feels like you are flying in a real environment, making the experience immersive and enjoyable.

Features, Pros, and Cons

Availability: Available on Steam, still in early access, and regularly updated.

Engine: Built on the Unreal Engine 5, offering great graphics quality and expansive maps.

Features: Immersive maps, chasing challenges, racing mode, and a “learn how to fly” mode.

Pros

Affordable price point

Visually appealing graphics

Unique challenges to enhance flying skills

Customizable drone settings for a personalized experience

Cons

Requires a high-end gaming rig for optimal performance

Limited to three maps currently

Physics is similar to Liftoff, which may not appeal to everyone

Not the best choice for first-time users

Uncrashed

Released in 2021, Uncrashed is a dream come true for experienced freestyle pilots, boasting stunning graphics and expansive playgrounds to explore.

As a relatively new simulator, Uncrashed raises the bar with its impressive visuals and smooth flying performance, setting a new standard for visual quality in FPV simulators. The graphics are vibrant and detailed, creating immersive environments that make you feel like you’re truly flying. While the physics are average and may not feel as realistic compared to other simulators, they are decent enough for learning the controls and getting comfortable with flying.

Engaging Activities and Unique Maps

With 19 unique maps filled with engaging activities, such as chasing cars, Uncrashed is a paradise for freestyle pilots. Each map offers a different experience, from urban landscapes to scenic natural environments, allowing pilots to explore a variety of flying conditions. The ability to chase moving objects adds an exciting dynamic to the flying experience, helping pilots practice their skills in a fun and interactive way.

However, it does fall short in the racing department. Currently, there are no multiplayer races or map creation tools, which limits the competitive aspect of the simulator. The absence of a beginner training program is another missed opportunity for Uncrashed to become the definitive FPV simulator experience. New pilots could greatly benefit from structured training modules that guide them through the basics of flying and help them build confidence.

Personal Experience and Immersion

In my opinion, Uncrashed is best suited for experienced pilots seeking visually immersive and enjoyable freestyle flying sessions. The vast playgrounds are incredibly fun to navigate, allowing you to fly in environments that resemble scenes from the movie The Fifth Element, complete with flying cars and futuristic cityscapes. I never get tired of exploring these imaginative landscapes!

The thrill of flying through these beautifully rendered environments is enhanced by the simulator’s attention to detail. The dynamic weather effects and time-of-day changes add another layer of realism, making each flying session feel unique. Whether you’re soaring through a bustling city or gliding over serene landscapes, the visual experience is truly captivating.

Community and Future Updates

Uncrashed has a growing community of users who share tips, tricks, and experiences, making it easier for pilots to connect and learn from one another. The developers are committed to regularly updating the simulator, which means that new features and improvements are on the horizon. This ongoing support is crucial for keeping the experience fresh and engaging, and it shows that the developers are dedicated to enhancing the simulator based on user feedback.

LiftOff

Released in 2018, Liftoff has quickly established itself as one of the premier all-around simulators in the FPV (First Person View) community. With its rich content and vibrant online community, it offers an engaging experience for both newcomers and seasoned pilots alike.

Pricing and Accessibility

At a competitive price of $20, Liftoff strikes a commendable balance between user-friendliness and a robust feature set. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible for beginners, while its depth of features caters to more experienced users. This combination ensures players of all skill levels can enjoy the simulator without feeling overwhelmed.

Enhanced Training Program

One of the standout features of Liftoff is its recently updated training program. This program adds substantial value by providing a structured learning path for newcomers. It includes tutorials and challenges that help users grasp the fundamentals of FPV flying, making the learning curve less daunting. This focus on education is a significant advantage for those new to the hobby.

Graphics and Visual Experience

While some may argue that the graphics in Liftoff are not as advanced as those found in newer simulators, the visual experience remains solid. The environments are well-designed, and the physics engine provides a realistic flying experience. The graphics may not be cutting-edge, but they effectively serve the purpose of immersing players in the FPV world.

Extensive Content Library

Liftoff is renowned for its extensive content library, which is one of its most impressive features. The simulator offers hundreds of models and thousands of tracks created by the community. This vast selection ensures that players have plenty of options to explore and experiment with, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.

Customization and Realism

A unique aspect of Liftoff is its innovative “parts system.” This feature allows users to customize their drones by changing components and mirroring real-life drone assembly. Players can experiment with different setups, enhancing their understanding of how various parts affect flight performance. Additionally, Liftoff is one of the few simulators that account for propeller damage, which can be toggled on or off. This feature encourages players to be more mindful of their flying style, promoting a more realistic and immersive experience.

Community Engagement

The Liftoff community is another significant aspect of its appeal. With an active online presence, players can share their custom tracks, models, and experiences. This sense of community fosters collaboration and creativity, allowing users to learn from one another and enhance their skills. Regular updates and community events keep the engagement high, ensuring players remain connected and invested in the game.

VelociDrone

For those seeking the most authentic flight experience, VelociDrone stands out as a premier choice. Released in 2016, it is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring straightforward graphics that make it easy on computer specifications.

Pricing and Focus

Priced at $22, VelociDrone distinguishes itself as a racing-focused simulator with a robust racing community. Its dedication to racing is evident in its multiplayer interface and map-building capabilities. However, this specialization means it may not cater to pilots interested in other aspects of FPV flying. For those dedicated to improving their racing skills with realistic physics, VelociDrone presents itself as an unparalleled choice.

Realistic Physics and Customizability

One of the standout features of VelociDrone is its commitment to realism. It offers one of the closest-to-reality physics experiences available, allowing users to feel the nuances of flight. Additionally, the simulator boasts a high degree of customizability, enabling pilots to tweak settings to match their preferences and flying styles.

Graphics and Performance

While the graphics of VelociDrone are among the simplest on the market, this design choice means it is not demanding on computer specifications. Players can practice flying without needing high-end hardware, making it accessible for those with slower machines. The game runs smoothly, ensuring a seamless experience even on less powerful systems.

Extensive Racing Tracks and Training Tools

VelociDrone features a great selection of racing tracks, making it an incredible tool for practice racing. Many MultiGP racers use VelociDrone exclusively for training, allowing them to learn courses effectively. The built-in track editor enables users to create their own tracks, and additional racing tracks can be downloaded from the VelociDrone website. The multiplayer mode enhances the experience, allowing players to jump between races, freestyle, engage in voice chats, and change courses all within the same session.

Limitations in Drone Choices

Despite its strengths, VelociDrone has some limitations, particularly regarding drone choices. The selection of drones is relatively limited, and customization options are not as extensive as some users might hope. While players can access more drone models, this often requires purchasing additional DLC, such as the freestyle DLC.

Update Process and Accessibility

Another drawback is that VelociDrone is not available on Steam, which can make updating the simulator slightly more cumbersome. For some users, this may be a positive aspect, as it allows them to choose when to update the software.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Realistic Physics: Offers an authentic flying experience.

Variety of Drone Sizes: Supports different types of drones, from 5” to tiny whoops.

Fun Game Modes: The game includes various modes for enjoyable flying, such as a combat mode in which players can shoot other drones down with lasers.

Low Graphics Requirement: Runs smoothly on most computers due to its simple graphics.

Cons

Separate Purchases for Game Modes: Different game modes and drone classes must be purchased separately.

Basic Visuals: This is not the best-looking simulator but is adequate for practice.

Tuning Required: Users need to tweak drone settings for each model to achieve a realistic feel.

The DRL Simulator

Released in 2017, the DRL Simulator offers an exceptional starting point for anyone new to FPV flying. With its engaging training program and fun gameplay, it serves as an excellent introduction to the world of drone racing.

Pricing and Features

At a budget-friendly price of $10, the DRL Simulator takes a significant leap forward in terms of features and quality. It excels in providing a feature-rich environment, boasting more than 20 diverse maps, extensive multiplayer options, and a variety of game modes. This makes it a standout choice for both beginners and seasoned pilots looking for a comprehensive flying experience.

Comprehensive Training Program

One of the simulator’s most notable features is its comprehensive training program. It offers a step-by-step guide that takes users from the basics of FPV flying to advanced maneuvers. This structured approach is particularly beneficial for newcomers, helping them build confidence and skills in a supportive environment.

Graphics and Content Depth

While the DRL Simulator may lag slightly in graphics compared to newer titles, the depth of content more than compensates for this shortcoming. The variety of environments is impressive; for instance, one map features tall buildings, abandoned factories, and a shipyard, all within a single setting. This diversity enhances the overall experience and keeps players engaged.

Competitive Opportunities

An interesting aspect of the DRL Simulator is its use in hosting online tryout events. Top pilots have the opportunity to compete in real-life offline DRL events, adding a layer of excitement and motivation for players. This connection to real-world racing elevates the simulator’s appeal and encourages players to improve their skills.

Engaging Gameplay Mechanics

As a gamer, I find the DRL Simulator to be one of the most addictive options available. The physics may not be the best among the simulators, but the engaging maps and scenery make up for it. A particularly exciting feature is the new system that allows players to race against the ghosts of pilots with similar rankings. This competitive element can motivate players to improve their skills and climb the rankings.

Cross-Platform Play

Another significant advantage of the DRL Simulator is its ability to facilitate cross-platform play. Pilots on different platforms can compete against each other, enhancing the multiplayer experience and fostering a sense of community among players.

FPV.SkyDive

Released in 2021, FPV.SkyDive is heralded as one of the best free FPV simulators available. It is an excellent entry point for those looking to explore the world of FPV flying without any initial financial commitment.

Accessibility and Pricing

FPV.SkyDive is a commendable free-to-download simulator available on STEAM. This accessibility allows newcomers to dive into the FPV experience without the pressure of spending money upfront, making it an attractive option for those curious about the hobby.

Beginner-Friendly Training Program

The simulator features a beginner training program designed to help new pilots get into flying, even if they have never used a radio before. This user-friendly approach ensures that players can quickly learn the basics and gain confidence in their flying skills.

Diverse Gameplay Modes

FPV.SkyDive includes a variety of gameplay modes, such as racing, challenges, freestyle, and multiplayer options. This solid foundation provides players with multiple ways to engage with the simulator and develop their skills. However, it is important to note that the simulator currently lacks extensive levels, content, and customization options.

In-Game Purchases and Limitations

While FPV.SkyDive is free but offers in-game purchases to unlock additional content. This aspect can somewhat limit accessibility for players who chose this simulator specifically for its free nature. The availability of paid content may deter some users from thoroughly enjoying the experience.

Mobile Version Update

As of March 2022, an exciting update was released: Orqa launched an Android/iOS version of FPV.SkyDive! Although it may not have as much content as the Steam version, this mobile adaptation allows users to practice FPV flying conveniently on their smartphones, making it easier to engage with the simulator on the go.