Design and Configuration
The Diatone GT200 racing drone was released in 2018, featuring a stretch decks configuration with an x4r receiver. During that time, the popular choice for receivers was the X4 from Free Sky, so that’s what was commonly used with this particular drone.
Antenna and Accessories
When I purchased this drone, it came with a linear antenna Omni on the back. This type of antenna provided decent signal reception and transmission. Unfortunately, I lost the antenna on the back before I had a chance to fully explore its capabilities.
Personal Experience and Limitations
Before I went into trucking in 2018, I bought the Diatone GT200 with the intention of taking it on the road with me. However, my goggles malfunctioned before I started trucking, so I never got to fully experience its flight capabilities. I did manage to fly it once in El Paso, but that was the extent of my experience with this drone.
Aesthetics and Motor Performance
One aspect of the Diatone GT200 that I particularly liked was its silver windings on the motors. It added a visually appealing touch to the drone. The color scheme was also attractive, although aesthetics weren’t the most important factor while flying at high speeds.
Durability and Camera Quality
While the Diatone GT200 had its strengths, durability was not one of them. The camera, in particular, was not as well-protected as modern drones. During its release period, cameras were more exposed and vulnerable to damage. This was a drawback for the GT200, as it meant the camera was more susceptible to potential accidents and crashes.
Overall, the Diatone GT200 was a decent racing drone for its time. However, its limitations and lack of personal experience with it prevent me from fully evaluating its performance. Nonetheless, its design, configuration, and motor aesthetics were notable features that caught my attention. Despite its lack of durability, it still provided an enjoyable flying experience when given the chance.
Diatone GT200 Racing Drone REVIEW 6 YEARS LATER
The Build
The Diatone GT200 Racing Drone is a heavy 4S build that features an all-in-one carbon body with two aluminum plates one on the bottom and one on top. Unlike modern drones, this model lacks any form of protection, making it easy to damage the camera during flight.
The Flight Controller
Equipped with an F3 flight controller, accessing and updating the software can be a bit challenging as it requires loading a specific version of Betaflight, depending on the age of the flight controller. While most drones run on Betaflight 10.9, this old model requires Betaflight 10.1.
Revamping the Drone
Due to the lack of available replacement parts in the market, the Diatone GT200 Racing Drone is not frequently flown. However, to show it some love, the reviewer decided to reverse the props by having them spin away from the camera instead of towards it. This small modification aims to breathe new life into the drone and make it ready for flight once again.
The Importance of Spare Parts
One of the downsides of purchasing a bind and fly drone like the Diatone GT200 is the limited availability of replacement parts after a certain period. As time goes by, it becomes increasingly challenging to find the necessary components and accessories for older models. This drone serves as a reminder for enthusiasts to always stock up on spare parts upon purchase to avoid any inconvenience down the line.
The Diatone GT200 Racing Drone, despite being 6 years old, still holds its own in terms of performance and durability. However, due to its lack of protection and the scarcity of replacement parts, it has become a rare gem that only a lucky few can enjoy. If you’re considering getting one, be sure to prepare yourself with spare parts to ensure its longevity and continued enjoyment.
Performance
The Diatone GT200 Racing Drone is a model that has been around for 6 years now. Despite its age, it still packs a punch in terms of performance. With its powerful motors, this drone can achieve incredible speeds.
Motors
One thing to note about the GT200 is that there were different batches of motors produced. Some had silver windings, while others did not. The drone that I purchased had motors without the silver windings. However, this does not affect its performance in any significant way.
Durability
I have taken good care of my GT200, treating it more like a keepsake than a racing drone. I do not fly it hard or roughly, which has helped preserve its condition over the years. Despite its age and lack of use, it still performs admirably when I do take it out for a spin.
Speed Test
To get a better understanding of the GT200’s capabilities, I looked up a speed test conducted by Grayson Hobby. According to their results, the drone reached an impressive speed of 98 miles per hour. However, it’s important to note that this speed was sustained for only about 20 to 25 seconds.
Overall, the Diatone GT200 Racing Drone remains a reliable and powerful option for racing enthusiasts even after 6 years. Its performance, durability, and impressive speed make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to experience the thrill of drone racing.
