Getting Started - Radio Comparison Guide

Every combat robot needs both a transmitter and a receiver, commonly known together as a "radio," in order to be operated by its builder.  Radio systems come in a range of price points with different features including communication protocols, number of usable channels, firmware, and more.  We've asked our community of builders what they use and recommend, and have included some of their favorite picks below. All radios listed meet SCAR's Failsafe requirements (with proper set up) and can be used in all weight classes offered at this time.

Beginner - FlySky T6A 2.4GHz Radio

The T6A is the beginner-friendly radio recommendation from the team at SCAR. While lacking some of the bells and whistles of computer radios, this budget-friendly system will get you in the door by offering up to 6 channels for controlling your robot, being able to "Failsafe" properly (a requirement for competing at SCAR events), and offer some customization by connecting to a laptop. This radio is available online at multiple online vendors including Fingertech Robotics as well as PalmBeachBots.

Intermediate - FlySky FS-i6 2.4GHz Radio

The FlySky FS-i6 is one of the most common radios you will find at combat robot tournaments. Customizing your FS-i6 is much easier using the built-in screen, allowing channels 5 and 6 to be switched between the multi-position switches and knobs along with options for mixing channels. This radio will require some set-up for a proper Failsafe, a requirement for SCAR events. This radio is also compatible with the very popular FS2A 4-Channel Receiver, commonly found in robots ranging from 150g to 30lb.

Advanced - RadioMaster Zorro 4-in-1 Radio

The RadioMaster Zorro 4-in-1 is the Swiss Army knife of combat robotics. Running open source EdgeTX firmware, the Zorro provides nearly unlimited customization options for programming, mixing, moving channels, and more. The "4-in-1" feature allows the transmitter to connect with different radio protocols, providing flexibility across brands and products including the RadioMaster R84,  FS2A, and the Malenki Integrated ESC + Receiver.

Advanced - RadioMaster Pocket - ELRS

The RadioMaster Pocket is likely the future of combat robotics. Running open source EdgeTX firmware, the Pocket provides nearly unlimited customization options for programming, mixing, moving channels, and more. The ELRS protocol allows the transmitter and receiver to be configured via Wi-Fi, as well as providing longer range, better stability, and better telemetry than the more common AFHDS 2A protocol. This transmitter will not work with the FS2A or Malenki receivers, and instead requires an ELRS-specific receiver such as the Radiomaster ER4. Extra advanced: If you need an ultra small receiver, you can flash a BetaFPV Lite ELRS receiver with information from here: https://github.com/frank26080115/EdgeTX-Scripts-and-FW-Collection/blob/main/ELRS-receiver-PWM-modification/readme.md to allow it to output PWM. This is currently one of the smallest known usable bot combat receivers.

Advanced - RadioMaster MT12

The RadioMaster MT12 is a great option for competitors more familiar with a pistol-grip style radio. Similar to other RadioMaster radios listed above, the MT12 comes in both ELRS and 4-in-1 protocols, both running open source EdgeTX firmware. This allows a great deal of customizability including moving channels to different switches and toggles, mixing, and other advanced features.

Honorable Mentions

Taranis QX7

Jumper T-Lite