QUADIFYRC MODS AND REVIEWS
  • RC Cars
  • Car of the Month
  • Quad Reviews
  • Quad Mods
  • COUPONS AND DISCOUNTS
  • Long Range
  • About & Contact

QUADIFYRC RC Car Review and Upgrade Guides

Flysky FS-GT5 transmitter review and Setup

14/9/2020

19 Comments

 
The Flysky FS-GT5 is a surface transmitter (and receiver) from Flysky suited for use in RC car and boats. It uses 2.4gHz digital transmission on the very reliable AFDHS2a protocol. What sets this aparts is the premium features for the price - 20 model memory, full gyro control via remote and a very easy to navigate GUI.
Picture
The development of digital signal over 2.4gHz has been a massive improvement for RC cars, especially for those of us old enough to remember that bad old days of frequency crystals and constant glitches. Unfortunately going to digital has mean the proliferation of protocols meaning that certain receivers only work with certain transmitters meaning you can often end up with a transmitter for each different car. One way around this is to buy on GOOD transmitter and a number of compatible receivers whether you are bashing around or racing. Obviously racers will be able to justify the more expensive equipment like that made by Futaba and Sanwa but it is hard to justify when you are a basher. Luckily the FS-GT5 offers us the key features from the more expensive radios at a better price point and receivers that are as little as $5 each to kit out your fleet. 
Picture
My first real remote looked like this one. Antenna is folder down on top and extended about 50cm
Picture
Check out the crystal on the back. You had to have a matching one in your receiver and this is how you changed channels. Bleeding channels was a real issues but has completely gone with 2.4GHz digital
A closer look at GT5 specifications

Transmitter
Channels: 6 Beyond throttle and steering the 4 extra channels will allow you to run practically any auxiliary item with mixers also available for crawler steering and the like
2.4GHz mode: AFHDS 2A. This is a good protocol and there are a range of receivers available ranging from about $6 up
Low voltage alarm: AA batteries below 4.4V, 2S lithium batteries below 7.4V Must have a voltage sensor to determine what kind of batteries are being used
Transmitter Size:27.8*20.8*12.5cm. This is quite compact for such a full featured remote
 
FS-BS6 Receiver
Built-in gyroscope stabilization system This is a big deal, more on this later.
Channels: 6 The recevier has all 6 channels available vi PPM
Number of bands: 135 Pretty unlikely to get interference with 135 bands available!
Input power: 4.0-8.4V DC Large input range up to 2s lipo. Important when using high speed servos
Size: 30 * 22 * 16mm Very compact
Why model memory is so important to RC cars
One thing not mentioned above is the fact that this transmitter has a 20 model memory and this is what really sets this aside from other transmitters. This is important because (unlike quads) cars and boats have specific trims and End Point Adjustment (EPA) setting that are unique to different cars. Although you can use a remote without model memory to bind multiple cars, you'd need to set these up each time you change cars which is simply impractical. In order to have model memory then all adjustments must be digital rather than POT dials with a graphical user interface. I am slowly migrating all of my cars to this transmitter and the change has been seamless, particularly since the user interface is practical and very intuitive.
Picture
As above you can see this is set to model 2 which is for my speed run 144001. Youc an program for up to 20 models
Picture
Here is an example showing how the end point adjustment for left steering is set to 71%. Menus are very easy to navigate and easy to setup with the clickwheel unlike some other multi-model controllers I've used
Performance
This is a pretty boring section for good reason - it does what you'd expect. For range I practically get about as far as I can see my big 1/10 scale DHK Hunter SCT which is probably about 200m. So far as I know I've never has a failsafe. The only way I could really push range is by setting a car up for FPV but then you are starting to get into a niche application. So in summary, for line of sight operation as we do, range is perfectly acceptable. For what it's worth I ran this same protocol in my quads and had an easy 500m range. I forgot to mention the antenna can flip up if you need extra range but since I've never gone out of range I don't really have a need.

Trigger and wheel feel is smooth and precise with little to no play. It is sturdy yet light in the hand even with batteries in and at no point has it ever felt like a burden. Ergonomics are fine even for a weirdo like me that is right handed yet holds a wheel transmitter like a leftie.

Battery life is impressive. I'm still on the same cheapo alkaline batteries I started with and that has included me returning to the garage and hearing the transmitter beeping at me because I forgot to turn it off. You can run a 2s lipo as well which is nice but in reality, AA batteries are probably a much more cost effective option.
Picture
Antenna down
Picture
Antenna up
Picture
Feels good in the hand
Picture
AA batteries work fine but if needed use the JST connector circled in red for a 2s lipo
Picture
Size comparison to the WL toys remote used on the 144001, 12428, A959 etc
Picture
Quite a bit heavier to compared to the WL toys remote but light enough to still be comfortable
Picture
Nice to have features
As I alluded to above the user interface is very fully featured and is simple use, my instructions have never been touched. See the images below on how I set up new models, takes less than 5 minutes.

​The Gyro is a feature I've never used before and I must say, it's awesome. I'm very familiar with gyros from quadcopters since they are such a critical component of basic flight but on the car they are a nice to have. In effect the provide countersteer and/or throttle reduction IMMEDIATELY after a change in direction is sensed that is not as a result of controller input. In real life the most common example of this is when you accelerate hard on a low-grip surface (or high powered car) and the rear steps out. The perfectly timed counter steer that is provided and throttle reduction helps keep you on track, whether you where trying to drive in a straight line or through corner. Since the strength of the countersteer (via steering channel) or throttle reduction (via throttle channel) is completely adjustable, you can change how intrusive this control is, much like in a premium full sized sports car. Personally I like to be in full control of throttle i.e. not throttle cut intervention with just a light intervention on countersteer. These settings are for attached to each model because for example a rwd road car will need quite different gyro setting to a 4wd carpet racer or rear wheel drive off road short course truck.
I think this is the easiest way to describe how the gyro works. As you can see I am not touching the steering at all. It also function similarly when you are turning the steering wheel but it centres on your turning point
Setting up the Gryo
First of all the manual can be found to the right, gyro specifically on page 11. The manual is well written and it looks as though they've had the input of a good english speaker (you what I mean)
fs-gt5_user_manual_20180919.pdf
File Size: 9735 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Enabling and calibration
First of all enter the menu system via the click wheel and choose SVC which is Flysky's term for Gyro settings. Turn SVC On to On (mine was off by default). Next go to Neu.Cal for neutral calibration. Keep your car still and centred (no throttle or steering) and press the click wheel again to start calibration. The process is fast and it completes itself. Toggle Rev (reverse) if needed - if you rotate the car left and right the front wheels should stay pointing forwards (rotating the car left should turn the wheels right etc.).

Setup and feel
​Next are the actual settings. I recommend turning St.Gain (steering sensitivity) to 50% to start - 0% is no correction and 100% is max correction and then adjust the feel from there which will be unique to this setup. Similar with Th.Gain but I chose 0% here because I have 4wd and don't want my throttle managed. If this was a rear wheel drive off roader a probably would look at least a little but of throttle sensitivity due to lower grip. Lastly Prio sets the priority of steering input to servo angle vs gyro input. 0% allows gyro maximum control and will make you run wide. 100% gives maximum priority to your steering wheel input and minimises gryo priority. I'm using 0% on mine for now but always tinkering. All my current settings are below, click to enlarge.
Picture
SVC (gryo) turned on. Default is off
Picture
Gyro didn't need reversing in my car
Picture
Steering gain set to 35%
Picture
Throttle gain set to 0% i.e. gyro does not limit throttle
Picture
Steering priority 0% i.e. more priority given to gyro than steering. Actually feels ok like this.
The way I have the gyro set up here doesn't limit throttle input and feels natural to me with how the steering works i.e. I forget that it is on but just enjoy a car that runs in the direction I want it more often than not. 
Receiver options
The 5 channel receiver included with the transmitter as I mentioned is a 6-channel gyro model called the FS-BS6 which are about $20. You can however use other cheaper receivers without a gyro that use the same AFDHS2a protocol, namely the Flysky FS-A3 receiver which is about $6. These work perfectly fine with similar range. They don't have gyro and they are only 4 channel but since gyro is not a must-have for me and I only run 2 channel cars anyway this is all I need.
Picture
The 6 channel FS-BS6 with built in gyro
Picture
The 4 channel FS-A3 is also compatible but no gyro and much cheaper
What are the cheaper alternatives I'd consider?
The FS-GT5 is a nice transmitter but at $60-80 it can be a lot of money, especially when you can get reasonable transmitters that do the basic job of control well for about $20-30. If you do want to get budget the models I'd recommend are:
Picture
Flysky FS-GT2E. This is at the top of my list for budget controllers because of the same AFDHS2a protocol it uses. There is no gyro, no model memory and not even throttle dual rate but it does the basics of control well. Extra receivers (the same FS-A3 as mentioned above) are just $6. I recommend against the other flysky models that use the older AFDHS protocol not because the protocol is bad but design and interface were patchy on earlier models.
Picture
DumboRC X6. This is as cheap as it get with a gyro. I do keep hearing good things about this transmitter, notably range, and it does have a few more features than the GT2E (gyro, throttle dual rate and 2 extra channels) but I've heard it can have QC issues. ​
Picture
Turnigy GT2E. This is a rebranded Flysky radio but from Hobbyking. They have specials from time to time and depending on where you live may be available in a warehouse closer to you. A word of warning though, their global warehouse is notoriously slow to ship, even pre-COVID-19
Conclusions and recommendations
If you have more than just a passing interest in RC cars I'd recommend spending the money on the FS-GT5 as your first remote. This is because you can use this remote for all your models conveniently with the full featured model memory. Furthermore the remote is well made with a reliable 2.4GHz digital protocol and a range of cost effective receivers available. If you are not ready to take the plunge on the $60-80 that the GT5 costs, there are lower priced options available such as the FS-GT2E that strips back the features but retains the reliable control protocol.
Picture
My flysky FS-Gt5 was ordered from Banggood who run a number of regional warehouses to try speed up shipping. Try code BGAff10off to get a discount.
​Thanks for reading, if you found this article useful please feel free to like or share, the facebook links below directly link/like this article. Links are affiliated and help me buy the bits I need to produce this type of content. If you are looking for RC ​cars, quads or parts check out my coupons and discounts page which I keep updated with only the RC cars, parts and quads I like at a proper discount
19 Comments
Deko link
13/1/2021 06:18:35 pm

Very good write up!
I bought a cheap PXtoys RC car and modifying this this is so fun, the controller is so bad that it definitely needs to be swapped.

Any ideas if GT5 receiver works with any servos and brushed motors, or do those 2 parts need to be upgraded / modified in some way.?

Reply
QuadifyRC
9/3/2021 12:37:46 am

Sorry I'm not familiar with the PX toys model. You would likely need to replace servo and ESC if it is anything like a WL toys car

Reply
Jens Sauer
10/2/2021 12:24:00 am

Similar question - is there any combatibility list for sender/receiver.
I`m pretty new to that hobby (after 25 years and now with kids) but already have 5 remotes. Like for 3 wltoys (124019 & K989 & K969) and 1 brushless jlb cheetah...

Is there one who fits all? thnx

Reply
QuadifyRC
10/2/2021 08:58:53 am

Sounds like I'm at the identical point in life to you! This radio gear uses the AFDHS2a protocol - any receiver that uses this protocol will work. For all intents and purposes those are the 2 listed here.

You can use this transmitter for the cheetah if you change the receiver but if the WL toys models are stock, you are stock with the stock transmitter

Reply
smock
27/2/2021 08:45:34 am

Hello there,

I recently bought a Wltoys 12428 and the associated remote already gave up.

This one looks like a reasonable priced beginners remote which stands out of the food on flimsy 20$ models.

I wonder if I can use this one and bind it with the car. Do I need further attachments or will it work right away?

Thanks in advance,

smock

Reply
smock
4/3/2021 11:28:20 pm

If done some research, (reading some of your guides). Looks like I need a new

- receiver (FS-BS6 came with the remote)
- ESC
- servo

I have gone with the 2838 4500KV
+ 35A ES combo you recommend at the 14xx conversion. I wonder if I can make it fit and work with the 12428.

Reply
QuadifyRC
4/3/2021 11:40:22 pm

Apologies, I'm having some real issues with notifications at the moment.

Yes you are right you will need:
Receiver and remote (which is sounds like you have)
Servo
ESC
Motor

I'm not that familiar with the 12428 but I think they need a larger f540 or 3650 motor to fit? The 144001 has an extra set of holes for the smaller 2838 motor which I don't think the 12428 has

smock
5/3/2021 04:02:00 am

Thanks for the reply!

My first post was kind of stupid....just 10 minutes of research was enough learning I have to change nearly everything aka. to shatter my dreams.

I now ask myself if I started on the wrong end of upgrading...

I have already bought the remote, ESC, motor servo I maybe just get an 144001 on the next sale and follow your guide...which, after reading some forums and reddit, looks to be the gold standard for doing a propper conversion. Props for that!

The problem I started with is the steering on my 12428.
I does not steer reliable to the left while steering to the right works fine. If I repeat steering it will eventually work on the 2nd to 3rd try. Counterforce does not matter, it occures while driving and with wheels in the air...so my first thought was a mechinical problem in the remote wheel. I have another WLtoys remote, maybe I can bind this. Also a replacement servo is on its way...

Reply
QuadifyRC
5/3/2021 10:59:10 pm

Hey no problem, sorry it was and expensive exercise but yes I think you will enjoy the 144001 or the 124019, both are great. I did have a 12428 briefly and amongst other things I really didn't like the steering mechanism. I didn't like the car in general but I know many love them

Reply
smock
6/3/2021 07:59:42 am

Tthe biggest flaw I came across on the 12428 is the telescopic shaft to power the rear-axle. It brakes all the time...even the steel ones just not the right construction for the massive motor.

And it rolls over in corners and drives wonky throu the high center of gravity.

Not the right model for a conversion....

smock
5/3/2021 08:34:02 am

So...some hours later mainly reading your guides I bought a Wltoys 124019, the tiny rest of the conversion stuff of your ultimate brushless upgrade guide, some alu parts and tyres....

just spended 200€...while yesterday I only wanted an easy fix to the steering problem...my son will be hyped...

Thank you for your great guides!!

ps: I couldnt use much of your affiliate links, because Ali had much better prices and warehouse options. Do you have paypal etc. for a small contribution?

Reply
QuadifyRC
5/3/2021 11:01:14 pm

Oh you got the 124019 - nice! No problem about the link and I don't take paypal nor patreon payments, just not into that. Glad you got a good deal, enjoy with racing and building with your son, it is a good hobby to share with kids :)

Reply
Danny P
30/5/2021 01:23:32 am

Hi. I have a question and it may seem dumb but I am a newbie and it needs an answer. I have an Axial SCX24, a TRX 4 and an Losi Desert Truck 1/10. While the Traxxas and Losi are ok with their transmitters, the Axial got the ESC and receiver (all in one) burned by me because I wanted to put an higher mAh in the SCX24. The Flysky GT 5 that I bought has an receiver but no input from the battery and I wonder what do I need to make it work with my Axial SCX 24. I know I need an ESC but how do you connect an EsC to the receiver ? All I have is Channel 1 through 6 on the receiver but no other ports. Please educate me because I am lost. Got this perfectly good FLYSKY GT 5 and no means to connect it to the car. Thank you in advance and sorry for bothering with such a dumb question but I really do not know. Best Regards, Danny

Reply
QuadifyRC
30/5/2021 12:24:45 pm

Hi Danny. ESC plugs into channel 2, steering servo into channel 1.

Reply
Joel Bergman
26/9/2021 08:11:03 pm

In the review for The Flysky FS-GT5 you choose 0% of Th.Gain because you have a 4wd car. Can you rather go with DumboRC X6 2.4G 6CH Transmitter with X6FG Receiver that hasn’t throttle giro, and less than half the price? If I’m not missed something. Have a 144001 and thinking about doing you ultimate upgrade to brushless, but trying to cut some costs down. Specifically when flysky fs-gt5 cost as much as a new 144001 to my country.

Reply
QuadifyRC
28/9/2021 05:03:27 pm

Hi Joel. Up to you. The Dumbo works well, especially for the price. If you are want to cut costs then that is the best way. The GT5 is more premium but I'd only get it if you want to control more than one car and or need more fine control. DumboRC is perfectly fine, here is my guide on them: https://www.quadifyrc.com/rccarreviews/dumborc-rc-car-radio-review-which-one-do-i-get-and-why

Reply
Jeremy
17/12/2021 12:42:50 am

I am curious you say the fs-a3 is 4 channel receiver, but I only see 3 channels and bind. Maybe I am misunderstanding the 4th channel. Right now on my crawler ch 4 is controlling my transmission gear. To switch it I use the thumb switch on the gt5. Will the a3 let me use that as well or by 4 channel do you mean something else. Thanks in advance.

Reply
BENJAMIN
5/1/2022 10:14:07 am

I thought the FS-GT5 supported channel mixing but I cannot figure how to set this up to work with a track vehicle (left and right motors) i.e. drive both with the trigger and mix with the steering wheel. Is there a firmware update to accomplish this, or am I missing something?

Reply
Atte
3/6/2022 05:54:31 pm

Thank you for this. I just ordered an FS-GT5 and a bunch of compatible receivers to get rid of the random assortment of different transmitters and receivers.

I'd advise against the dumborc stuff, I have two transmitters and receivers and they both lose the signal randomly for about a second or two and get stuck on the last transmitted control position - not funny on full throttle. I talked to a fellow on youtube and he has the same problem with three tx-rx combos!

Come to think of it, there is a certain large RC-channel on youtube who occasionally crashes after big jumps shouting "it just cut out" makes me think maybe their dumborc stuff isn't any better...

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Archives

    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020

    Categories

    All
    104001
    104002
    104009
    104072
    1/10
    124016
    124017
    124018
    124019
    144001
    144002
    144010
    16886
    16889a Pro
    184016
    284131
    4s
    4 Things
    Anti Roll Bars
    Balance
    Basher
    Battery
    Brushless
    C24
    Charging
    Cogging
    Crawler
    D22
    D32
    Diatone
    Diatone Q25
    Drift
    Drop In
    Dumborc
    Eachine EAT14
    Eachine EC30
    Eachine EC30B
    EMB-MT
    Ex07
    Ex16
    Flyhal
    Flysky FS-G7P
    Flysky Noble Pro
    FMS
    FPV Car
    Goolrc
    Guide
    Gyro
    HBX
    Hbx 901a
    HS10422
    K989
    LC12B1
    LC Racing
    Lipo
    Metal Parts
    Micro
    MJX Hyper Go
    Monster Truck
    Mx-07
    Pinion
    Preview
    Program Card
    Project WLCRacing
    Q33
    Racerstar
    Radiolink RC6GS V3
    RC Boat
    Review
    ROCHobby
    Setup
    Sg 1602
    SG 1603
    SG 1604
    Soldering
    Spectre
    Speed Run
    Stance
    Surpass Hobby
    Timing
    Transmitter
    Tuning
    Tyres
    Upgrade
    Vinyl
    Wheels
    WL916
    Wltoys
    WL Toys
    Wpl
    Zd Racing

    RSS Feed

Thanks for visiting QuadifyRC.com Follow us on facebook below to get all the latest updates
  • RC Cars
  • Car of the Month
  • Quad Reviews
  • Quad Mods
  • COUPONS AND DISCOUNTS
  • Long Range
  • About & Contact