The best hobby rc airplanes all have one thing in common: they are durable. As the name suggests, these remote-controlled planes are not for children, but for adults who are passionate about flying. Remote-controlled airplanes can be a hobby on their own, but they can also be a lot of fun as part of a larger remote-controlled vehicle fleet. From stunt drones to realistic biplanes, here are our picks for the best hobby rc airplanes.
Read on to learn more about our favorite hobby rc airplanes.
Our Editor’s Best Hobby Rc Airplanes Reviews
Bestseller No. 1
TOIBUS RC Plane, Remote Control Airplane, Drone for Kids and Beginners F-22 Glider Fighter Jet, Ready to Fly 2CH 2.4GHz Flying Toys with LED Lights, 2 Takeoff Modes, Auto Balance, 2 Batteries
- F-22 Fighter for Kids: This aircraft capture the essence of F-22 fighter and completely constructed of EPP foam, it is extremely lightweight and durable. Feature with bright LED lights provide great visuals for the nighttime flight, sure to please rc enthusiasts of all ages!
- Extended Flight Time: Come with 2 rechargeable batteries, support up to 30mins flight (15min per battery). The powerful thrust and power system enables this aircraft to have excellent flying speed and longest flying distance of 320-400ft
- Easy to Control: This airplane built with 6 Gyro stabilization system, it will restore the balance when the plane learn to right or left, which making the flight stable and easy to control, even for kids under 12 years. Supports Ground Takeoff and Hand Throw Takeoff, adding fun to the play, simply glide your raptor through the air and enjoy the immersive flying!
- Ready to Fly: This rc plane is ready to fly with the landing gear, no glue assemble needed. 2 Channel remote control is designed for beginners and adults, with a couple practice, you will easy to it right or left, up and down.
- 2.4GHz Radio Control:The airplane transmitted by 2.4Ghz frequency, enable 2 or more planes to fly together without interference, share the joy of RC flight with friends and family. It is a perfect gift for birthday, back to school or holiday surprise.
$33.99
Buy on Amazon
SaleBestseller No. 2
HobbyZone RC Airplane AeroScout S 2 1.1m RTF Basic (Battery and Charger Not Included) with Safe Technology, HBZ380001, Airplanes (RTF), Trainers
- The most durable and perfect trainer for first-time pilots and experienced pilots who teach others to fly
- Equipped with exclusive SAFE technology that helps prevent crashes and makes it easy to learn how to fly
- Beginner, Intermediate and Experienced flight modes you can easily change between at the flip of a switch
- Includes almost everything needed to fly except for a compatible LiPo battery and charger (sold separately)
- Spektrum DXS controller/transmitter with industry-leading DSMX 2.4GHz technology for reliable control without interference
Bestseller No. 3
HobbyZone RC Airplane Carbon Cub S 2 1.3m RTF Basic (Battery and Charger Not Included), HBZ320001
- The most capable, versatile and easiest to fly scale trainer based on the iconic Carbon Cub from CubCrafters
- Equipped with exclusive SAFE technology that helps prevent crashes and makes it easy to learn how to fly
- Beginner, Intermediate and Experienced flight modes you can easily change between at the flip of a switch
- Includes almost everything needed to fly except for a compatible LiPo battery and charger (sold separately)
- Spektrum DXS controller/transmitter with industry-leading DSMX 2.4GHz technology for reliable control without interference
Bestseller No. 4
QFCST Foam Remote Control Wireless Airplanes RC Planes, Remote Control Fighter Toys, 2CH 2.4Ghz RC Fighter Jet with Light, Hobby Rc Airplanes Easy to Fly for Kids Boys Adults(Black)
- ✈️ 【Foam Remote Control Wireless Airplanes】Our Foam Remote Control Wireless Airplanes RC Planes are crafted from tough yet lightweight EPP elastomeric foam, making them highly impact-resistant. Whether you're a first-time flyer or a seasoned pilot, these Remote Control Fighter Toys are built to withstand bumps, hard landings, and windy outdoor conditions. Perfect for long-lasting fun in the skies.
- 🎮 【Easy to Fly – RC Planes】With its intuitive controls and ultra-stable flight system, this 2CH 2.4Ghz RC Fighter Jet with Light is a breeze to operate—even if it’s your very first flight. Designed with simplicity and precision in mind, it’s one of the most Easy to Fly options for kids and adult beginners. No prior flying experience needed—just power it up and take off!
- 📡 【Remote Control Fighter Toys】The advanced 2.4GHz remote control system allows for smooth maneuvering in four directions: up, down, left, and right. Whether you're flying around the park or your backyard, this Foam Remote Control Wireless Airplanes RC Planes ensures stable, interference-free control. Assembly is quick and effortless—install the battery, wheel, and tail, and you're ready to go!
- 💨 【2CH 2.4Ghz RC Fighter Jet】This Remote Control Fighter Toy features dual motors for powerful takeoffs and faster, more stable flights. Combined with rechargeable 3.7V 260mAh batteries, you get up to 15 minutes of continuous flying. That’s twice the flight time of most other Hobby RC Airplanes, giving you more time in the air and less time charging.
- 🌟 【Hobby Rc Airplanes】Fly day or night with confidence thanks to the built-in LED lighting. The 2CH 2.4Ghz RC Fighter Jet with Light provides eye-catching illumination that not only looks amazing, but also helps track the aircraft in low-light conditions. Kids and adults alike will love flying these Hobby RC Airplanes under the stars.
$32.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 5
HobbyZone RC Airplane XCub 450mm RTF Everything Needed to Fly is Included HBZ-1250
- One of the most durable and easiest to fly trainer models yet for beginner RC (Radio Controlled) airplane pilots
- 100% complete and ready to fly right out of the box – there’s nothing extra to buy so it’s an incredible value
- Equipped with SAFE technology that helps prevent crashes and makes it easy for everyone to learn how to fly
- Includes a 5-channel controller/transmitter with 2.4GHz technology and features 4 channels of control for training to full aerobatic flight capability
- Ultra-micro sized to fly in large yards, parks, at sports fields and beyond
$119.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 6
Remote Control Wireless Airplane Toy with Lights, Su-35 Rc Glider 2 Channel 2.4 GHZ Remote Control Planes, Outdoor Foam Rc Aircraft for Hobby Rc Airplanes
- 🛩️🛩️【Remote Control Wireless Airplane Toy 】The remote control plane features a hybrid design with the twin capabilities of a quadcopter and glider.The rigid wing of the remote control aircraft model aircraft, the 2.4G remote control signal is stable.this RC plane is easy to fly. A beginner will learn to fly it just after hours of practice.
- 🛩️🛩️【 2-Channel Remote Control】This plane works like a real plane with 2-channel control, which can be controlled by wireless remote control. The aircraft is automatically balanced, which is simple and convenient, faster.
- 🛩️🛩️【 Remote Control plane】The remote can control the plane in 4 directions: up and down, left and right. And 2 or more planes can fly together without mutual confusion, The RC plane needs to be on a stable ground and continue to accelerate and taxi for 65-100 feet before taking off. Or can be thrown to take off.
- 🛩️🛩️【 Foam RC Planes 】The light weight perfectly to ensure the flexibility and make sure the Airplane could operate easily.Lightweight material, it can float up automatically after falling into the water without sinking.
- 🛩️🛩️【 Su-35 RC Plane with Lights 】Equipped with LED night lights. Driving at night adds a gorgeous scenery to the night sky, and it can be clearly positioned when flying at night. That means kids can throw an aero jet party, especially at night, multiple drones with vibrant LED lights fly around, making for a great visual feast.
$26.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 7
LEAMBE 4 Channel RC Plane, Ready to Fly Aerobatic Aircraft, Easy Control for Beginners, P51 Mustang RC Airplane Best Gift for Boys & Adults
- FLIGHT STABILITY AND EASY TO FIY: The P51 Mustang remote-controlled aircraft is made of lightweight elastomer foam and can fly in outdoors. Enough light and high flexibility material make the RC plane easy to fly
- 3 MODES THAT EASY TO CONTROL: Beginner, Intermediate and Experienced 3 Modes which makes you easy to learn to fly the plane at your own pace. Amazing Gift item for adults and kids
- NEW TECHNOLOGY TO PROTECT AIRPLANE FROM DAMAGE: New Propeller Saver Technology which is used to save the RC plane from damage. And its easy to install the propeller back to the plane
- PRODUCT INFORMATIONS:This P51 Mustang RC Plane Glider Has A Fuselage Length Of 14 Inches, Wingspan: 15 Inches. And 2.4Ghz Radio Control distance of within 656 feet. 8mm Coreless Motor, Flying time of up to 12 min.
- XPILOT STABILIZATION SYSTEM EASY TO FLY: The Xpilot gyro stabilizer provides ultra-stable self-stabilization for easy flying. The powerful over-grade motor system enables easy control for aerobatic maneuvers
$129.97
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 8
POWERUP 4.0 The Next-Generation Smartphone Controlled Paper Airplane Kit, RC Controlled. Easy to Fly with Autopilot & Gyro Stabilizer. for Hobbyists, Pilots, Tinkerers.
- PILOTED FLIGHT - Grab a sheet of paper, fold it, and go! Instantly put yourself in the cockpit of an amazing smartphone controlled paper airplane that does high speed tricks. The bluetooth module, which includes autopilot control, connects to your phone so you can experience the sensation of flying countless paper, foam, and even Balsa Wood airplane models.
- INCREDIBLE STABILITY - Loops, Barrel Rolls, & Hammerheads are achieved with the special Acro Mode! Your paper plane’s onboard computer automatically calibrates your paper airplane for imperfect weather with a built-in launch assist and wind stabilizer. Now hobbyists, tinkerers, or students can become the flight controller!
- CONNECTED FLYING - Pair your plane with the POWERUP App to maneuver your plane, keep a robust flight log, compete with other flyers on the leaderboard, and learn to fold new plane designs.
- RAPID CHARGING - A 30 minute quick charge gives you 10 minutes of flight time along with an incredible range of up to 230ft! Traveling up to 20mph, your plane will spend less time on the tarmac and more time in the air. Simply connect the included micro USB cable to a charging port and plot out your next journey.
- STEM READY - Experience the aerodynamic forces that make flight possible through various wing configurations. Lift, drag, thrust, and gravity are learned first hand. Purchase the Night-Flight Kit and Accessory Kit to see how different parts create a new experience. Great for an outdoor class or exploration together with family.
$59.99
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 9
HobbyZone RC Airplane Sport Cub S 2 615mm RTF Everything Needed to Fly is Included/Safe Technology HBZ444000,White/Blue
- Battery and charger included
- An updated version of one of the best-selling and most popular scale trainer models available for learning to fly radio controlled (RC) airplanes – the Sport Cub S
- 100% complete and ready to fly right out of the box – there’s nothing extra to buy, provide or assemble
- Equipped with exclusive SAFE technology that helps prevent crashes and makes it easy to learn how to fly
- Ultra-micro sized to fly in parks, at sports fields, or even indoors over a basketball court
Bestseller No. 10
E-flite RC Airplane Slow Ultra Stick 1.2m BNF Basic Transmitter Battery and Charger Not Included with AS3X and Safe Select EFL0350 Airplanes Bind and Fly Electric Hobby
- All Slow Ultra Stick 1.2m models (EFL0350) include an updated version fuselage joiner (as of November 2023) and updated version landing gear legs (as of July 2023)
- Inspired by classic slow flyer “Stick” models with modern-day technologies, features, and performance for “mild to wild” capabilities
- Uniquely capable and versatile so it can be flown in more places and smaller spaces from yards to parks and beyond
- Specially tuned brushless motor compatible with 2S and 3S batteries without the need for modifications
- Durable and stiff, fully-molded, composite-reinforced EPO stabs plus a two-piece wing with a semi-symmetrical airfoil
$219.99
Buy on Amazon
Best Hobby Rc Airplanes Buying Guide
Before choosing the best hobby rc airplanes you should consider following options:
1. RC airplane size: RC airplane wingspans range from 12 inches to 25 feet. Smaller RC airplanes are easier to fly and are good for beginners. Larger RC airplanes are more challenging to fly, but they’re better for advanced pilots.
2. RC airplane type: RC airplanes fall into one of two categories: scale RC airplanes and non-scale RC airplanes. Scale RC airplanes are modeled after real-life airplanes, while non-scale RC airplanes aren’t modeled after real-life airplanes.
3. RC airplane power source: RC airplanes are powered by electric, RC airplane gas or RC airplane nitro engines. Electric RC airplane engines are generally easier to fly and cheaper to maintain. RC airplane gas engines offer a more realistic flying experience, but they’re more costly to maintain and have a higher crash risk. RC airplane nitro engines are the most realistic, but they’re the most costly to maintain and have the highest crash risk.
4. RC airplane manufacturer: RC airplanes are made by a range of manufacturers, including Horizon Hobby, ParkZone and Hobbico.
5. RC airplane quality: RC airplanes are made from a range of materials, including foam, RC airplane balsa wood and RC airplane aluminum.
6. RC airplane accessories: RC airplanes come with a range of accessories, including RC airplane landing gear, RC airplane landing gear bags, RC airplane propeller de-ice shields and RC airplane trailer hitches.
What else you should know about hobby rc airplanes
1. What are the best RC airplanes for beginners?
Some of the best RC airplanes for beginners are the ParkZone T-28 Trojan, the ParkZone P-51D Mustang, and the ParkZone Sukhoi Su-26m.
2. What are the best RC airplanes for experienced pilots?
Some of the best RC airplanes for experienced pilots include the Align T-Rex 700E DFC, the Mikado Logo 700, and the SAB Goblin 700.
3. What are the best RC airplanes for aerobatics?
Some of the best RC airplanes for aerobatics are the Extra 300, Pitts Special, and the Cap 232.
4. What are the best RC airplanes for scale flying?
Some of the best RC airplanes for scale flying include the P-51D Mustang, the F4U Corsair, the B-29 Superfortress, and the B-52 Stratofortress.
5. What are the best RC airplanes for long-range flying?
Some of the best RC airplanes for long-range flying are the Piper Cherokee, Cessna 182, and the Beechcraft Baron.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best hobby rc airplanes. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best hobby rc airplanes will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.