BNF – Bind-and-FlyBNF
BNF models are fully built but come without a radio. You "bind" them to an existing compatible transmitter. Saves money if you already own a suitable radio.
Glossary
The most important RC terms – briefly and clearly explained.
Brushed motor
Brushed motors use carbon brushes, are inexpensive and good-natured to drive – ideal for beginners. They are less powerful and wear out over time.
Brushless motor
Brushless motors work without wearing carbon brushes; they are more efficient, faster and longer-lasting than brushed motors. They usually need more capable (LiPo) batteries and a matching ESC – which raises follow-up costs.
C-rate
The C-rate indicates the multiple of the capacity at which a battery can be safely discharged. A C-rate that is too low for a power-hungry model leads to power drops and battery damage.
Capacity (mAh)mAh
Milliamp-hours (mAh) indicate a battery's capacity. More mAh means longer drive/flight time, but also more weight. Together with the C-rate it determines how much current can be drawn continuously.
Drivetrain: 2WD vs. 4WD
2WD drives only two wheels – lighter, cheaper, a bit more demanding to drive. 4WD (all-wheel) offers more traction and control off-road, but is pricier and more maintenance-intensive.
KitKit
A kit is assembled by you. ESC, servo, radio, battery and charger usually have to be bought separately. Educational and highly customisable, but not ready to drive out of the box.
LiPo battery
LiPo batteries deliver high power at low weight and are the standard in RC. They must be charged with a suitable charger, stored correctly (storage voltage) and protected from deep discharge/damage.
NiMH battery
NiMH batteries are uncomplicated and safe to handle, but heavier and less powerful than LiPos. Often included in entry-level RTR sets.
RTF – Ready-to-FlyRTF
RTF is the flying counterpart to RTR: everything in the set, including the radio and usually battery plus charger. The most straightforward entry for planes and helis.
RTR – Ready-to-RunRTR
RTR models come fully assembled and set up from the factory. Often only the battery and charger are missing (sometimes included too). Ideal for beginners who want to start right away.
SAFE / stabilisationSAFE
SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) and similar systems stabilise planes and helis electronically and limit risky attitudes. On drones the equivalent is a self-leveling mode – a big safety gain for beginners.
Scale
The scale describes the model size relative to the real vehicle. 1:8 is significantly larger than 1:24. Larger scales feel more substantial and smoother, but need more space and pricier parts/batteries.
Speed controller (ESC)ESC
The ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) regulates how much current flows from the battery to the motor and thus determines the speed. Brushed and brushless drives each need a matching controller.
Sources & references
Explained in our own words, aligned with established expert sources: