Indoor RC helicopters - pistol controllers, gyros and gesture control

Indoor remote control helicopters vary in how you control them and how much flying input they allow. This guide compares pistol-style controllers, gyro-equipped models and gesture control. It focuses on helicopters rather than fixed-wing planes or camera drones.

What to look for

A pistol controller is the shape of the handset. It does not mean the helicopter has all the directional controls of a more advanced model. Check the channel count and the functions described for that particular helicopter.

A gyro helps stabilise the aircraft. It is not a guarantee of hands-free flight, obstacle avoidance or automatic hovering. You still need to follow the instructions and practise.

Gesture control uses movement of a dedicated controller. It is a control method, not a separate aircraft type. A gesture-controlled helicopter can also have a gyro.

Choose a clear indoor space. Keep away from faces, loose hair, curtains and pets. Allow room above and around the aircraft. Switch off before handling the rotors.

Check the age rating and charging arrangements before buying. A model described as easy to fly is not automatically suitable for a young child. More than one helicopter in a pack also does not prove that they can fly together without interference.

The helicopters

The mini helicopter with pistol controller is an indoor model. It is available as a single, twin pack or four-pack. This gives a choice of quantities, but check the operating instructions before planning simultaneous flying.

The indoor helicopter with pistol controller is listed as a one-channel model and comes in red or green. Its simple control arrangement differs from the 3.5-channel models below. Neither pistol-controller listing describes a camera.

The alloy gyro helicopter has 3.5-channel control, 2.4GHz radio, LED lights and a gyro. It is specified for indoor flying and ages 14 and over. It offers a different control arrangement from the one-channel model.

The 3.5-channel gyro helicopter is also rated 14+. Its current specification confirms the channel count and gyro. Check its instructions for the individual controls and operating space rather than assuming every feature matches the alloy model.

The gesture control helicopter has 2.4GHz control, an alloy body and a gyro. It is an indoor model rated 14+. Choose it if the gesture controller itself is the feature you want to try.

How to decide

Choose a pistol-controller model for its simple listed control setup. Compare the 3.5-channel gyro models if you want more flying input. Choose the gesture model for that control method. In every case, check age suitability and provide a clear indoor flying space.