RC 2 vs RC-N3, which one is better?

Seeking Advice
1

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the RC 2 controller compared to the RC-N3 paired with a phone?

2

There’s no difference in range between RC-2 and RC-N3. Both use Occusync 4 technology, and this has been tested by experts.

The RC-N3 paired with a phone may last longer since mobile displays are brighter and less reflective compared to the Android-based system on the RC-2.

If you’re not earning money with your drone yet, the RC-N3 might be the better choice, and you can upgrade later. Mobile phones tend to stay updated longer than the display and chip in the RC-2.

One benefit of the RC-2 is that it has two assignable buttons compared to one on the RC-N3. However, the single button on the RC-N3 can be programmed for single and double clicks, achieving similar functionality.

3

The RC-2 keeps your phone free for calls or texts while flying. It also means no awkward attachments or worrying about your phone’s battery draining mid-flight, since the RC-2 has its own screen.

4

Shiloh said:
The RC-2 keeps your phone free for calls or texts while flying. It also means no awkward attachments or worrying about your phone’s battery draining mid-flight, since the RC-2 has its own screen.

The RC-N3 has an option to charge your phone while you’re flying, so battery drain isn’t usually a problem.

5

@Zachary
True, but charging the phone drains the controller battery faster.

6

Shiloh said:
@Zachary
True, but charging the phone drains the controller battery faster.

I’ve used the RC-N3 extensively with the phone charging option on, and the battery lasts a long time. Unless you’re flying for hours at a stretch, you shouldn’t have any issues with battery life.

7

The RC-2 is a nice upgrade if you can afford it. It’s faster to set up, the built-in screen won’t dim or overheat, and it’s much easier to handle calls or texts while flying. While not essential, it’s hard to go back once you’ve used it.

8

With the RC-N3, you’re reliant on your phone working properly. For example, if your phone’s USB-C port is damaged, you won’t be able to connect it to the controller. This is one advantage of a smart controller like the RC-2—it removes that point of failure.

9

@Cairo
Make sure to check your cables. Not all USB-C cables support data transfer. I had issues with my DJI FPV until I found the right cable. That said, smart controllers definitely simplify things.

10

Dana said:
@Cairo
Make sure to check your cables. Not all USB-C cables support data transfer. I had issues with my DJI FPV until I found the right cable. That said, smart controllers definitely simplify things.

In my case, it’s definitely a damaged USB-C port on my phone. I’ll send it in for repair soon.

11

I use a dedicated cheap Android phone with my RC-N3. It works great, and the phone’s display outperforms the RC-2’s screen in brightness and durability.

12

Ren said:
I use a dedicated cheap Android phone with my RC-N3. It works great, and the phone’s display outperforms the RC-2’s screen in brightness and durability.

Do phones paired with controllers have latency issues?

13

@Sage
I use an iPhone 14 Pro Max with my RC-N3 and haven’t noticed any latency. Phones have better screens and chips compared to the RC-2. Some YouTube reviewers exaggerate the benefits of the RC-2 due to paid promotions.

14

The first time your phone detaches from the controller mid-flight is when you’ll realize how much more reliable a smart controller like the RC-2 can be.

15

The RC-2 has several advantages:

  1. Separate buttons for recording and photos.
  2. Two dials—one for zoom and one for camera angle.
  3. Two customizable function buttons, compared to one on the RC-N3.
  4. External antennas for better signal adjustment.
  5. Durable gimbals compared to the plastic ones on the RC-N3, which are more prone to breaking.

However, there’s no range advantage for the RC-2. Both controllers use the same Occusync 4 technology.