Somehow, I missed reviewing the JJRC H20C ‘s predecessor, which was probably the first affordable mini hexacopter. These two models have approximately the same design but the newer H20C is slightly bigger and comes with a nicer remote controller. Certainly, the onboard camera is the most attractive improvement of the H20C over the older H20. The camera is advertised with HD 720p video resolution, but I think that the 1280 x 720 videos are obtained by software interpolation from VGA resolution.
Frankly, based on my experience with other cheap hexes, I can’t say that there’s a big difference between the four-motor and six-motor designs. Actually, I find it useless to install 6 motors on such small aircraft. Of course, I’m not talking here about the much more expensive hexacopters like the Yuneec Typhoon H, where the 6-motor design offers the capability to land even if one rotor fails safely.
This $40 mini hexacopter is available in two color schemes: green/black and red/black. I received the red/black one, which matches perfectly with the transmitter’s colors. Both versions have unicolor propellers, which makes it harder to determine the orientation of this little aircraft. Indeed, at this price, it can be considered only a toy without having big expectations.
As I already reviewed a few JJRC models, including their X1 brushless quad, I can say that they offer decent quality and good aftermarket support through spare parts availability.
JJRC H20C highlights
- 6 motor design;
- 3 different speed rates;
- Headless flight mode;
- One key return to home;
- “720P” onboard camera.
JJRC H20C in-depth review
This product was been offered by Banggood in order to make an honest review. As usual, they didn’t request me to write my review favorably. Thanks again for their professional attitude.
The small package arrived in 3 weeks and fortunately was unharmed, not totally destroyed as it happened with the RunCam Swift which I recently received.
JJRC H20C: First impressions
Besides the small hexacopter and its stylish black/red remote controller, the package includes one set of spare propellers (3 CW and 3 CCW), a USB battery charger, a screwdriver, and something that should look like a user manual. Luckily, the propeller guards are “built-in” and require no additional installation.
Having a size of approximately 10 x 10 x 2 cm, the H20C can’t be categorized as a micro hexacopter. Due to its size, it is just perfect for indoor fun as well as for outdoor flights in calm days.
The 280 mAh Li-Po battery, the power source of this H20C hexa, is easily removable and replaceable. Although the battery is equipped with the familiar micro-JST connector, it can’t be charged with other chargers because the polarity is reversed!
According to the specs, a fully charged battery allows about 5 minutes of playtime. Those who want to have more fun without having to wait 20 to 25 minutes for recharging the battery through a standard USB plug, can purchase a couple of spare batteries (it costs only $4.5/pcs.).
Peeking inside the H20C, I was surprised to find out that the camera module is almost as big as the flight controller. Now, it is clear why the H20C is slightly larger than its predecessor.
Unlike other hexa-copters, this JJRC H20C has only 4 LED lights, not six (one under each arm). There are two blue LEDs in the front and two red ones on the aircraft’s rear. An additional green LED is found on the camera module, which indicates the rear of the H20C very well.
JJRC H20C: Remote controller
Although the control range is disappointing, the game console-style transmitter looks pretty good. Every key is labeled with the corresponding function.
The foldable phone bracket indicates that the manufacturer will soon launch a new model with FPV function (update: I just read that the H20W with WiFI PFV is already on the market).
Under the “power” switch are located the two camera dedicated buttons, one allows to stop/start video recording and the second one to take still images.
The left shoulder buttons allow you to switch between three-speed rates according to the operator’s flight skills (beginner, intermediary, and insane). By long pressing the same button, the LED lights can be turned ON/OFF. The auto flip mode can be activated with the right shoulder button (top-right).
Resetting the gyro can be done by pushing down the throttle stick and simultaneously pressing for more than 2 seconds the “reset” button.
JJRC H20C: Camera
The 720P camera is an integrated one and, unfortunately, does not allow angle adjustment. Both photos and video are captured with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels.
While the seller advertises the H20C with an included 4GB micro SD memory card, I didn’t receive one. To make my tests, I used an 8GB card from another quad. You should know that the memory card can be more easily inserted/removed if the flight battery is not loaded into the H20C drone.
Overall, the image quality offered by the camera is decently usable but not as good as other 720P cameras. When I checked the recorded video, I had the impression that there are only 10-15 fps, not 30 fps, as shown in the player’s media information. So don’t expect to capture with this toy an award-winning aerial video :D
JJRC H20C: Flight performance
Yesterday, after I took the pictures for my review, I proceeded with some indoor test flights. Contrary to my expectations for such a cheap model, the H20C was very stable and easy to hover. As the left throttle stick retains its position, newbies can try to focus on the right stick and practice the basic flight movements.
When I took it outside, I expected to be taken easily by the lowest breeze because the H20C is small and lightweight. Those tiny brushed motors (even if they are six) can’t fight with the wind.
Although the advertised control range is 60 meters I managed to fly about 30 meters far away from me. The motors are automatically stopped after 10 seconds when the transmitter is powered OFF or the aircraft is out of the control range.
The propeller protectors work well, so it can take “easily” a crash without major damage.
In my opinion, the LEDs are not positioned too well, they are visible only if you are under the drone.
Pricing and availability
Those who are interested in beginning their journey in the world of quadcopters with this remote-controlled toy should know that it can be ordered on the BG website here. Spare parts are also available in case you need to replace one of the motors, flight controller, or camera.
Visitor Rating: 4 Stars
Visitor Rating: 4 Stars