Introduction
Now this is the version that comes pre-installed with HD0, and what I’m going to do today is walk you through this quad. It features its capabilities, take it for a flight and then at the very end, share with you my thoughts. Just for complete clarity up front, Emax did send me this quad over for free to review. However, they have not paid me to make this review. They’ve not seen this review before it’s been published and as always, my thoughts are entirely my own.
Unboxing and Content
The Tinyhawk III HD0 comes in a bind and fly kit, without the FPV goggles or the remote controller. It is specifically designed for the digital version, although an analog version is also available. The quad comes in a nice semi-hard case with a plastic zip for easy opening and closing. Inside the case, you’ll find the quad itself, a USB charger for the 1S battery, spare props, stickers, leaflets, and additional accessories.
Design and Build
The Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around and suitable for indoor and outdoor flying. The build quality is sturdy and durable, ensuring it can withstand crashes and rough handling. The quad features a sleek and modern look, with the Emax logo and branding prominently displayed.
Flight Performance
When it comes to flying the Tinyhawk III, it delivers an exceptional performance. The quad is agile and responsive, allowing for smooth and precise maneuvers. The HD0 system provides excellent video quality, capturing clear and sharp footage during flight. The quad is easy to control, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced pilots.
Accessories Included
In the package, you will find some small accessories such as a board for the HD0 VTX, which is fantastic to see included. The board contains the Whoop light kit along with the Nano camera, and a firmware update cable adapter kit. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that you have everything you need for the HD0 VTX, which can sometimes be lacking in bind and fly packages.
Design Overview
The Emax Tinyhawk III Plus is a digital version with built-in HD0. It features a Whoop light kit with a Nano camera and a Whoop light VTX underneath. The frame is a 3-inch (76mm) quad weighing 35.5g without the battery. The AIO flight controller has an f411 CPU with onboard Express RRS receiver and an SPI receiver compatible with Express LRS version 3.0. The quad is equipped with an ICM 20689 gyro and Emax TH 82S motors with 15000 KV.
Battery and Flight Performance
The Tinyhawk III Plus is designed to be used with a 1S battery, and a 650mAh battery is included in the kit. The flight time is yet to be determined, but overall, this 3-inch Whoop is ready to fly out of the box with all the necessary components onboard.
Preconfigured Settings
One of the standout features of the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is its preconfigured settings. Unlike some other bind and fly models, this drone comes fully ready to go right out of the box. All the modes are preset and the configuration is done for you. Simply put in your binding frame for Express LRS via Betaflight, ensure your modes and switches are set up correctly, and it’s ready to use.
Build Quality
Looking at the rest of the quadcopter, you’ll notice the attention to detail in its build quality. The power connector is equipped with a capacitor pre-installed under heat shrink tubing. The battery bay is located underneath the bottom with elastic bands to hold the battery securely in place. The frame itself is made of a flexible plastic material that has a bit of give to it, making it more durable than brittle plastics found in other models. While it’s not indestructible, it’s less likely to shatter upon impact.
Additional Features
On the back of the drone, you’ll find the antenna for the HDZero system, providing a clear and reliable video feed. The drone also includes other nice little details that enhance the overall user experience. From the thoughtful placement of components to the durable construction, it’s clear that the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition was designed with both performance and convenience in mind.
Adjustable Camera
The camera on the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is fully adjustable and protected in a plastic housing. This makes it easy to customize and ensure the best angle for your flight. The design of the camera housing also provides protection, giving you peace of mind during intense flights.
Convenient USB-C Connector
The flight controller of the Tinyhawk III Plus comes with a USB-C connector installed as standard, making it easy to access and convenient for charging and connecting to other devices. This ensures that you’ll have no trouble plugging your cable in, unlike some other smaller quads with hard-to-reach USB ports.
USB Charger Overview
The included USB charger for the Tinyhawk III Plus supports 1s and 2s input and features a switch for standard lipo or HV batteries. With a 5 Volt 2 Amp input and output options of 1s 4.35 volts or 2s 8.4-8.7 volts on HV, this charger provides a quick and easy way to charge your batteries without being too slow or too fast – just the perfect balance.
HDZero System
Both the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus and the HDZero Edition come fitted with the same HDZero system. This includes the whoop light VTX with up to 200mW of RF output and the same camera. This ensures consistent performance and quality across both quads, giving you a reliable and enjoyable flying experience.
Compatibility with HDZero Receivers
The great thing about hd0 is that it is compatible with all of the hd0 receivers, so that includes the original Fat Shark VRX, the hd0 VRX, or even the hd0 goggles. You can use any goggles that have HDMI input with a hd0 VRX, like the Cadex goggles X.
Lowest Possible Latency
The great thing about having hd0 on a cord like this is that you’re going to get the lowest possible latency. Hd0 is a fixed latency digital FPV system that prioritizes latency over image quality. This fixed latency ensures a consistent performance, which is especially beneficial for racing drones.
Analog Feel with Permanent Fixed Latency
Hd0 provides a more analog feel in the way the video breaks up, although not quite the same as analog. The permanent, fixed latency offered by hd0 ensures stability and reliability during flights. This can be advantageous for drones used in high-speed racing scenarios.
WOPR Camera
The WOPR camera on the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition supports both 16×9 and 4×3 aspect ratios. It offers a field of view of 130 degrees, coupled with the hd0 VTX to enable a 720p 60 frames per second mode. Although the camera does not support 1080p or the new 540p90 modes, it still provides lower latency compared to other digital FPV systems.
Bind and Fly Quads
These Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition quads are bind and fly, meaning there is no need to update the firmware on them. They come with Betaflight version 4.2.2, and it is advised not to attempt updating Betaflight on these quads. Updating Betaflight on a bind and fly quad can result in losing all settings, so it’s best to leave it as is.
Setting Up and Configuring
To set up these quads, you will need to configure them to work with your Express LRS radio. This can be done via the Betaflight configurator. To bind the quad to your Express LRS transmitter, plug in the USB-C port and wait for the lights to flash. Then, connect to Betaflight and navigate to the receiver tab. Here, you can input your binding phrase for the Express LRS receiver.
Setting Up the Transmitter
After pasting in the binding phrase and saving, the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition should connect to the Express LS transmitter, in this case, the Radio Master pocket transmitter is used. This setup allows for a customized control system for the quadcopter, providing a seamless flying experience.
Connecting the Quadcopter
Powering up the quadcopter via USB should result in a successful connection to the transmitter. This step is crucial to ensure that the controls are responsive and accurate, allowing the pilot to maneuver the quadcopter with ease and precision.
Adjusting the Channel Map
If there are any issues with the control mapping, it may require adjusting the channel map. By changing the settings from T AER to default on channels 1, 2, 3, 4, the throttle, pitch, roll, and yaw controls should work as intended. This step is essential to ensure that the quadcopter responds correctly to the pilot’s commands.
Testing the Controls
After making the necessary adjustments, it’s crucial to test the controls to ensure that everything is working correctly. By moving the throttle, pitch, roll, and yaw controls, the pilot can confirm that the quadcopter is responding accurately to their inputs. This testing phase ensures that the quadcopter is ready for flight and that all controls are functioning as expected.
Checking Channel Mapping
Before using your radio, it is important to ensure that the channel mapping is correct for the modes. While Emax has preconfigured everything, it does not guarantee that they are mapped to the correct switches on your radio. It is recommended to verify and adjust accordingly to suit your preferences.
Adjusting the Modes
Upon checking the channel mapping, I noticed that my mode switch was not correctly configured. I changed it to Orcs 4 for the desired modes. Additionally, I found that the beeper was on a different switch, so I set it to Orcs 2 to align with my preferences.
PIT Tuning and Rate Profile Settings
The PIT tuning on the quad was already set, so I did not make any adjustments in that area. However, I did take a quick look at the rate profile settings to see what was configured. The throttle limit, throttle mid, and throttle expo values were at 0.5, and the rates were set at 56, 500, 486. I decided to keep these settings as they were for the time being.
Exploring the Workshop
So, the weather is pretty horrific, but that won’t stop us from taking the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition for a few flights around the workshop. Putting it into angle mode, we’ll take a closer look at the image quality captured by the camera.
Image Quality and Camera
There’s nothing new in terms of the camera on this quad in comparison to previous models. The camera provides a decent image quality, allowing for a clear view of the surroundings while flying.
Flight Performance
The workshop is a small and challenging space to navigate, but the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition handles it well. The out-of-the-box tune is commendable, offering a smooth and stable flight experience.
Maneuverability and Control
Despite not being a seasoned whoop pilot, maneuvering the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition around the workshop is relatively easy. It responds well to controls and is capable of navigating through complex environments with ease.
Impressive Performance
The quads produced by Emax have always caught my attention, especially their smaller models like the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition. These drones fly incredibly well right out of the box. While I may not have extensive experience with various drones to claim that Emax is the best, I can say that I have very few complaints regarding their performance.
Flight Test Experience
During a recent flight test, I was able to witness firsthand the impressive capabilities of the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition. The drone showcased smooth flying abilities and delivered a stable performance. The flight duration was around 3 minutes, and the voltage stayed consistently between 3.5 to 3.2 volts, indicating a reliable power source.
Advanced HDZero Technology
One of the standout features of the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is its HDZero technology, which excels in providing high-definition video transmission even in challenging environments. The system effectively minimizes interference and delivers crystal-clear footage, making it ideal for capturing aerial views with exceptional clarity.
Testing in Real World Conditions
Stop that one there now. I did also take this out for a few flights in the real world, although the wind was just too much for a quad of this size, as you can see here in the footage um the weather here in Wales. This time of here really does make it difficult for me to test fly quads, but you can see it out here in real world with regards to the colors how its behaving in the end, I only did one test on One battery cuz. I didnt want to push things too much because the wind was just pushing it all over the place. I was just waiting here for a walker to come past. I was told by my wife that there was one coming so once they came past I was able to carry on with the flight. Then it was just a case of just moving it around the trees to see how it is, but the wind was just too much for a quad of this size.
Performance in Indoor Flights
As Ive said already on the indoor flights. Hd0 is absolutely perfect for this size class of aircraft. It really does fit very well into whoops and small 2 and 3in quads, and were going to be taking a look at that free Style version of this one in the near future.
Quality and Performance
I know people will and moan about the types of battery connectors that are used on some of these little quads lots of other stuff Im coming at this, though, from a sort of four five in guy whos flown Big Stuff, small stuff and really, as a guy, That just wants to buy a little whoop and fly it, and I actually think its really really good.
I always always like the products that emac put out Ive never really had any complaints with any of them, and this tiny, Hawk 3 plus here again, is another good one.
Flight Time and Features
HD Z, decent flight time Im not going to say its the best, not going to say its the worst, but if youre looking to get yourself a bind and fly whoop that just works out of the box, this is definitely going to be worth a look now.
There are several versions of this quad available. You have the bind and fly versions that are available with a set of goggles as well as a remote controller, or you can get it as it is as youve seen here today from me and as Ive said several times already, you also have a freestyle version Of this, which were going to be taking a look at in a separate video in the near future.
Options and Pricing
Now, if we have a look around, you can get it in analog as well as hd0. If we click on the hd0 version, you can then see you can get it in the bind and fly for $239 or you can get it in the full ready to fly kit with that emac hd0 compatible display goggles, whatever you want to call them and remote Controller for $489.
The freestyle version, which is slightly different, is available here as well and, as Ive said, we will cover this in a separate video that is going to be available for $499 in the ready to fly or $249 in the bind and fly.
If Youre interested in getting one there will be a link to it in the description.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is a drone that has caught my attention. I received this drone directly from Emax, and I want to express my gratitude to them for sending it over. The unboxing experience was great, and I could tell right away that this drone was a high-quality product.
Flight Performance
When it comes to flying the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition, I was impressed with its agility and responsiveness. The drone handled well in various flight modes and environments, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced pilots. The HD camera on the drone also provided clear and crisp video footage, adding to the overall flight experience.
Features and Functionality
This drone is packed with features that make it stand out from other drones in its class. The HDZero Edition comes with improved components and a sleek design that not only looks great but also enhances the drone’s performance. The built-in FPV system allows for real-time video transmission, giving pilots a first-person view of their flight.
Supporting the Channel
If you are interested in supporting our channel and helping us create more content like this in the future, please consider checking out the links to my Patreon and Buy Me a Coffee in the description. Your support helps us continue to produce quality content for our viewers. Any questions or feedback you have are also welcome, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.
Conclusion
The Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is a fantastic quadcopter that offers great value for money. With its impressive capabilities, sleek design, and exceptional flight performance, it is a quad that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a reliable and fun flying experience.
If you’re in the market for a compact and agile HD whoop, the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is certainly worth considering. With good image quality, solid flight performance, and responsive controls, it offers a satisfying flying experience for both beginners and experienced pilots alike.
Overall, my experience with the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition has been overwhelmingly positive. The drone is user-friendly, offers impressive performance, and incorporates cutting-edge technology to enhance the flying experience. If you are looking for a reliable and high-performing drone for your aerial adventures, the Emax Tinyhawk III Plus HDZero Edition is definitely worth considering.
Okay, so just to share with you some final thoughts. Now I am not a whoop expert Nick Burns. Is the guy thats going to tell you everything that is amazing and bad about a cord like this? There are loads of things that Ive probably missed.
