Futaba vs Spektrum [Which RC Brand is Better for You?]

Last Updated on September 18, 2023 by Jaxon Mike

For radio control (RC) enthusiasts, few decisions are as critical as choosing the right transmitter and receiver system. The transmitter and receiver are the core link between you and your aircraft or vehicle. Most hobbyists will be deciding between the two major players in RC systems: Futaba and Spektrum.

Futaba and Spektrum have a long history in RC and both produce high-quality gear for hobbyists and professionals alike. But there are some key differences between the two brands to consider before choosing one for your next project. This article will compare the transmitters, receivers, features, and compatibility to help you determine if Futaba or Spektrum is better suited for your needs.

COMPERISON TABLE

Feature	Futaba	Spektrum
Transmitter Design	Metal gimbals and switches, precise instrument feel	Plastic casing, simplified feel
Transmitter Adjustability	Extensive programming menus and customization	Preset features and simpler adjustments
Transmitter Features	Designed for competition-level pilots	Focus on useful features for beginners
Receiver Range	Up to 3X range with FASSTest	Excellent range with DSMX
Receiver Size	Tend to be slightly larger	Industry leading small size with Nanolite
Receiver Latency	Near instantaneous response	Near instantaneous response
Receiver Failsafe	Robust failsafe options	Failsafe settings configurable from transmitter
Model Memory	50+ model storage capacity	Average 30 model storage
Backwards Compatibility	Excellent – works with older FASST/S-FHSS	Limited backwards compatibility
Quality Reputation	Excellent, high-end gear	Very good, focus on reliability
Key Applications	Competition, aerobatics, hardcore racing	Sport flying, recreation, entry level

Brief History of Futaba and Spektrum

To understand their current technology and design philosophies, it helps to look at the origins and backgrounds of these two industry leaders.

Futaba History

Futaba has been manufacturing RC equipment since 1948. Originally starting with vacuum tube radios in Japan, they slowly grew into an international company specializing in hobby-grade RC.

In the 1970s, Futaba pioneered affordable digital proportional RC systems. This allowed much more precise control and adjustments compared to older single-channel designs. They continue to be on the cutting edge by introducing the first 2.4GHz spread spectrum RC system in the early 2000s.

Today Futaba remains family-owned and focused primarily on high-end hobbyist and competition-level RC equipment. Their transmitters and electronics have a reputation for performance, precision, and quality.

Spektrum History

Spektrum originated in the 2000s as a new brand focused on bringing 2.4GHz spread spectrum RC systems to hobbyists. Their first products caused a major shift in the market away from older 72MHz and 75MHz technology.

Spektrum was acquired by Horizon Hobby in 2007. Horizon is one of the largest distributers of RC products. Under Horizon, Spektrum has grown tremendously and now offers a full range of surface and air transmitters for hobbyists.

Spektrum tends to focus on ease-of-use and integration of features especially for new pilots. Their systems are known for reliability and long range. Spektrum has also made RC more accessible and affordable for beginners.

Transmitter Comparison

The transmitter is the core control interface between pilot and machine. Both Futaba and Spektrum make excellent transmitters, but there are some clear differences in their design philosophies.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, Futaba transmitters lean towards a precision instrument feel with metal gimbals and switches. The fit and finish is excellent. Spektrum transmitters have a slightly cheaper plastic feel, but are still solid. For advanced pilots, the edge goes to Futaba for durability under demanding use.

Ease of Use

Spektrum offers a more automated setup process and menu system designed for beginners and intermediate pilots. Futaba transmitters require more manual programming for maximum customization. Spektrum likely has the edge for pilots newer to RC.

Features

Both brands cover all the essential features from digital trims to programmable mixes. Higher-end Futaba radios have more features for competition-level pilots. Spektrum includes automated features useful for new pilots learning to control their aircraft.

Programming and Adjustments

Futaba uses traditional programming with deep menus and parameters for those who want to dial in every setting. Spektrum uses a simpler menu structure and an app-based interface. Overall, Futaba has more flexibility for adjustments but Spektrum is easier to programme.

Receiver Comparison

The receiver gets the signals from the transmitter to your vehicle. The type of receiver impacts range, latency, failsafe features and more.

Range and Latency

Both brands offer excellent range with their modern 2.4GHz systems. Futaba FASSTest claims up to 3 times the range of a standard receiver. For outright range, Futaba has a slight edge. In terms of latency, both have near instantaneous response times for any RC needs.

Failsafe Features

Failsafe allows the receiver to take action if it loses the signal from the transmitter. This could be holding servos in their last position or moving to a pre-set failsafe position.

Futaba and Spektrum both have robust failsafe options. Spektrum receivers may have an edge by allowing failsafe settings to be configured from the transmitter.

Size and Weight

Receivers have gotten much smaller over the years. For park flyers and mini models, Spektrum Nanolite receivers are hard to beat on size and weight. Futaba receivers tend to be slightly larger on average. For giant scale models this doesn’t matter, but for smaller models Spektrum likely has an advantage.

Model Memory and Compatibility

Having enough model memory to store all your aircraft and vehicle settings is essential for an RC system. Both Futaba and Spektrum transmitters have ample model memory, but vary in their backwards compatibility.

Futaba

Top Futaba radios boast over 50 model memories. This is essential for serious fliers with big hangars of aircraft. Futaba systems are also backwards compatible so even older S-FHSS and FASST receivers will work on a new FASSTest transmitter.

Spektrum

Spektrum transmitters average around 30 model memories. Their backwards compatibility is a bit more limited compared to Futaba – newer DSMX models may not work on older DSM2 systems. But within the same protocol, Spektrum has excellent cross-compatibility across surface and air transmitters.

FAQs

What is the main difference between Futaba and Spektrum transmitters?

The main difference is that Futaba transmitters are designed for maximum adjustability preferred by experienced hobbyists, while Spektrum transmitters prioritize ease-of-use and automated features appealing to beginners.

Which brand has longer range – Futaba or Spektrum?

Futaba generally has a slight edge in range over Spektrum. For example, Futaba FASSTest claims up to 3 times the range of standard receivers. But both brands provide excellent range for most RC applications.

Can Futaba and Spektrum transmitters be used together?

Yes, you can use Futaba receivers with Spektrum transmitters and vice versa. The protocols are compatible between the two brands. However, you may lose access to advanced features by mixing brands.

Which is better for large models – Futaba or Spektrum?

For giant scale aircraft, Futaba has the advantage. The heavy duty metal construction of Futaba transmitters stands up to intense use required for large sizes. The extensive adjustments also help dial in large models.

Are Spektrum nanolite receivers compatible with Futaba?

Yes, Spektrum nano receivers such as NR4 can connect to a Futaba transmitter module. This allows you to take advantage of the tiny Spektrum receivers for use in small models controlled by a Futaba transmitter.

Conclusion

In comparing Futaba and Spektrum, both produce high quality RC gear but have a different focus. Futaba emphasizes maximum performance and adjustability loved by experienced fliers. Spektrum focuses more on ease-of-use and integration that appeal to beginner and recreational users.

For advanced pilots doing competition aerobatics or hardcore racing, Futaba has the edge. The extensive programming and robust metal construction hold up to heavy use. For weekend fliers and other hobbyists, the simplified Spektrum systems get the job done reliably and for less cost.

Ultimately you can’t go wrong with either Futaba or Spektrum. Assess your experience level, budget, and needs to decide which brand is the right fit for your next RC project. And of course, you can always mix and match – choosing Spektrum for surface use and Futaba for air may give you the best of both worlds.