470 vs 500 Class: Which RC Helicopter Suits You Best?
470 vs 500 Class: Which RC Helicopter Suits You Best?
Choosing between a 470-class and a 500-class RC helicopter is one of the first big decisions many RC pilots face. The difference comes down to more than just looks — it’s about how they fly, how they handle wind, and how practical they are to own. A 500-class heli, with its larger rotor span of roughly 960–1,000 mm, carries more weight, delivers greater stability in breezy conditions, and commands impressive presence in the air. A 470-class, with a rotor span around 850 mm, is lighter, more agile, and far easier to transport, making it ideal for quick trips to the flying field. In this guide, we’ll put four popular models head-to-head, comparing size, handling, and cost to help you choose your best scale helicopter.
Size & Weight: Presence vs. Portability
When comparing the 470 and 500 classes, the first and most visible difference is scale. 500-class helicopters like the FL500 and BO105 boast a wingspan of 980 mm and tip the scales at around 7,200 g for the fuselage alone, plus another 6,000 g for the main rotor assembly. The added size gives them a commanding presence in the air, while the extra weight contributes to improved stability in flight.
In comparison, 470-class helicopters such as the FLYWING BO105 and FLYWING EC135 are more compact, with a wingspan of 810 mm and a much lighter all-up weight — 2,300 g for the BO105 and 2,000 g for the EC135. That makes the helicopters are more agile, and responsive, easier to transport, but more susceptible to wind gusts.
In short, if you value realism, visibility, and wind stability, the 500-class has the advantage. If agility, easy transport, and quick setup are your priorities, the 470-class may be the better fit.
Flight Performance & Technology
The 500-class FL500 series helicopters feature the FLISHRC L7 flight controller with 4-mode GPS positioning, delivering smooth, stable flight that’s perfect for long hovers and realistic scale maneuvers. Their 980 mm rotor span and heavy build give them excellent wind resistance but slower, more deliberate handling.
The 470-class FLYWING series models use the H1 flight controller with Beidou GPS for agile, responsive flight. The 810 mm rotor span and light weight make them quick to maneuver, and quick-release blades speed up setup and transport — though they’re more affected by wind.
In a word, bigger and heavier means more stability and presence, while smaller and lighter delivers greater agility and responsiveness.
Control Difficulty
Regarding flight handling, 500-class helicopters are generally more forgiving for pilots who focus on scale flying or smooth, predictable maneuvers. Their larger rotor and heavier frame make it easier to maintain steady flight paths, lock into hovers, and perform slow, graceful turns, which is an excellent choice for intermediate pilots looking to move into scale flying. The flip side is that their slower response to control inputs means quick, last-second corrections require more foresight and planning.
Meanwhile, 470-class helicopters are tuned for quicker reflexes. They respond instantly to stick movements, offering an exhilarating level of control for experienced pilots who want a more dynamic flight experience. This makes them great for tight spots and agile flying, but it also means there’s less margin for error. The lighter build amplifies the effect of wind and turbulence, requiring constant small corrections to maintain stability.
Put simply, 500-class helis reward patience and precision, while 470-class models demand sharp reflexes and active control.
Price & Maintenance Costs
When it comes to cost, 500-class models are typically higher due to their larger airframes, more complex mechanics, and higher material use. Spare parts are also bigger and pricier, and repairs often take more time. Over time, this can add up, especially for pilots who fly often and expect the occasional repair or replacement.
470-class models, on the other hand, are more affordable to buy and maintain. Their smaller size means cheaper parts. And the quick-release blade system not only makes transport easier but also reduces wear during assembly and disassembly.
Therefore, if budget and minimal upkeep are your priorities, the 470-class wins. But if you’re willing to invest more for long-term realism, scale presence, and rock-solid stability, the 500-class is worth the extra cost.
Conclusion
Whether you crave the rock-solid stability and scale presence of a 500-class or the lightweight agility and value of a 470-class, the right choice comes down to your flying style and priorities. The 500 series rewards precision and immersive realism, while the 470 series delivers convenience, portability, and lower running costs. Check out the final comparison table below, pick the one that matches your style — and grab it from the links to kick off your next RC adventure!
FL500 BO105 (500-Class):
FL500 EC135 (500-Class):
FLYWING BO105 (470-Class):
FLYWING EC135 (470-Class):
https://rtrhobby.com/products/flywing-ec135-rc-helicopter-with-gps?_pos=1&_sid=d0f846026&_ss=r
