BetaFPV Air65 Champion Edition has been released, with only 1,000 units available. This limited edition little hoop has a high KV motor with dual ball bearings and the power you need to handle some serious FPV fun. Today we’ll take a closer look at the Air65 Champion Edition, from its build quality to its performance, and whether it’s a worthy addition to your collection.
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Where to buy
You can get the Air65 Champion Edition at:
Note: Batteries are not included. Get the recommended BetaFPV LAVA 1S LiHV here:
The Air65 Champion Edition comes with the following accessories:
What are the differences between Champion Edition?
At first glance, the Air65 Champion Edition appears to be identical to the previous Air65 model, with only the color frame and motor being different. However, BetaFPV has also made some notable upgrades to the Champion model.
- 0702 30,000KV motor: These higher KV motors provide more power and speed, but at some efficiency cost.
- Double ball bearing: The motor’s dual ball bearings provide smoother performance and faster speeds compared to previous versions. It also reduces friction and wear, making the Champion Edition strong and durable over time.
- 5in1 AIO Flight Controller: Unlike the 4in1 board of existing models, the 5in1 board includes an external receiver, making wiring and repairs easier. Weight-wise, it is similar to a 4-in-1 setup with an external ELRS receiver.
- Improved camera design: BetaFPV added a small sticker to the back of the camera to prevent light leakage seen in previous models.
- Camera canopy modifications: BetaFPV made some changes to the camera mount, trimming the canopy around the UFL connector slightly to improve durability in the event of a crash.
One downside is the increased weight due to the heavier double bearing motor. The Champion Edition weighs approximately 17.9 grams, while the Air65 Freestyle and Race Editions weigh approximately 17.1 grams.
Lighter build
If you’re looking to save some weight, we recently created a custom hoop that’s 1.1g lighter than the Champion Edition using a few different parts and techniques. For tips on how to make your Champion Edition even lighter, check out my build guide here: https://oscarliang.com/how-to-build-tiny-whoop/.
flight performance
speed and agility
The Air65 Champion Edition is an absolute thrill right out of the box. The 0702 30,000KV motor provides exceptional responsiveness, noticeably increasing the speed and agility of the drone. The added power makes it ideal for freestyle maneuvers and fast turns, especially in indoor environments. The Champion Edition feels incredibly fast, making it a fantastic choice for racers and freestyle enthusiasts alike.
battery life
The average flight time using a fully charged BetaFPV Lava 1S 300mAh battery was just over 3 minutes. This is about 20 to 30 seconds shorter than the 27,000KV Race model, but if your focus is on faster lap times and a more thrilling experience, the improved performance is worth it. If you prioritize longer flight times or a more relaxed cruising style, you may prefer the original Air65 with its lower KV motor.
Final Verdict: Is the Air65 Champion Edition Right for You?
The Air65 Champion Edition isn’t a dramatic upgrade from the original, mainly just the motor.
If you already own an Air65 Race or Freestyle version, you can easily upgrade by purchasing and replacing the 30,000KV motor separately. Soldering is very simple. Another tip is to save about half a gram by replacing the frame with a NewBeeDrone Cockroach LiteAF, which is what I did when I custom built it.
For those choosing between Air65 models, the Champion Edition offers the best performance of the lineup. The 5in1 AIO board and canopy modifications are also welcome improvements. But there are only 1,000 units available, so act quickly if you want a champion. And in case you missed it, the original Air65 is still a great choice. Because your flight time will be slightly longer and you will save about $10.
Buy Air65 at:
Note: Batteries are not included. Get the recommended BetaFPV LAVA 1S LiHV here:
