At first look, the brand new RadioMaster TX15 would possibly appear to be a color-screen model of the beloved Boxer, however don’t be fooled—it’s far more than that. After hands-on testing, I discovered the TX15 to be a thoughtfully engineered transmitter, filled with good options that make it one of the vital forward-thinking EdgeTX radios so far.
From highly effective internals and ergonomic design to quality-of-life enhancements and customization choices, the TX15 goals to serve a variety of pilots—from informal FPV fans to superior fixed-wing and glider flyers. On this evaluate, I’ll stroll you thru my expertise with the TX15, what makes it stand out, and who it’s finest fitted to.
New to FPV? Take a look at our radio transmitter purchaser’s information for novices: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/
The place to Purchase
The TX15 is available in two variations: Base Mannequin ($139) and Max Version ($199).
Purchase the TX15 Base Mannequin:
Purchase the TX15 Max Version:
I’ll be reviewing the MAX model on this article. The specs between the usual and max variations are related, besides these variations:
Base Mannequin | Max Version | |
Gimbals | Corridor Gimbals | AG02 Gimbals |
Gimbal/Swap Shade | Black | Purple, Gold, Black |
RGB Gimbal Lights | NO | YES |
Faceplate Colours | Gray, White, Blue, Inexperienced, Yellow, Pink | Carbon Fibre Pores and skin |
Weight (no battery) | 605g | 672g |
Notice: The TX15 requires two 18650 Li-ion cells (not included). These Radiomaster 3200mAh 18650 cells are a sensible choice: https://oscarliang.com/product-ykiv
Within the field it comes with the next equipment:
- 1 × Carry Case
- 1 × 2-Place Latching Shoulder Swap
- 1 × 2-Place Momentary Shoulder Swap
- 1 × 18650 Battery Tray
- 1 × USB-C Cable
- 1 × Display Protector
- 1 × 1.5mm Hex Wrench (for gimbal rigidity)
- 4 × Spare Excessive-Stress Gimbal Springs
- 2 × Gimbal Stick Set Screws
- 1 × Sticker Set
- 1 × Consumer Guide
Specs and Options
Radiomaster TX15 MAX:
- Colours Obtainable: Purple, Black, Gold
- Inside RF Module: ExpressLRS (Helps each 2.4GHz and 900MHz)
- Inside RF Output Energy: 10mW, 25mW, 50mW, 100mW, 250mW, 500mW, 1000mW (switchable)
- Antenna Acquire: 2dB
- Cooling Fan: Constructed-in
- Onboard Flash Reminiscence: 4GB
- microSD Card Assist: As much as 32GB (FAT32) – disables onboard flash if used
- Microphone: Sure (for future function enlargement)
- Gyro Sensor: Sure (ICM-42607-C – can be utilized to set off switches, pan/tilt cameras, or telemetry callouts just by tilting your radio and so on)
- Enter Voltage: 6.6–8.4V DC
- Max Present Draw: 875mA at max RF energy
- Firmware: EdgeTX 3.0.0 or newer
- Channels: As much as 16 channels (Receiver dependent)
- Processor: STM32 H7
- Show: 3.5-inch IPS shade touchscreen (480 x 320 decision, 262K colours, 600-nit)
- Gimbals: AG02 Gimbals (M4 stickends)
- Battery Choices: 2× 18650 Li-ion / 2S LiPo / 21700 5000mAh (not included)
- Cost/Information Connector: USB-C
- Measurement: 178 × 168 × 81 mm
- Weight: 672g (with out battery)
Construct High quality and Ergonomics
Proper out of the field, the RadioMaster TX15 feels premium.
Whereas it shares an identical format and kind issue with the Boxer—particularly in measurement, weight, and swap positions—the TX15 isn’t only a Boxer with a shade display screen. It introduces delicate however significant upgrades in ergonomics and design that make an actual distinction.
The grips are properly contoured and textured, providing a agency, safe maintain. Whereas the Boxer was already a well-regarded radio, the TX15 refines that formulation with improved hand really feel and higher steadiness.
For the Max model, the radio is available in a carbon fiber-look faceplate (notice: it’s painted plastic, not actual carbon fiber). There are three gimbal shade choices—purple, gold, and black—unique to the AG02 CNC gimbals. I opted for purple gimbals, and so they look incredible in opposition to the carbon-fiber face.
Like practically each new radio launched up to now two years, the TX15 makes use of a foldable antenna, much like the one discovered on the RadioMaster Pocket. This design is well-liked for its comfort, folding neatly for transport. Whereas some customers choose detachable antennas just like the Boxer as a result of it permits you to improve to increased achieve antennas, ExpressLRS has grow to be so dependable and highly effective that the majority customers will discover the inventory 2dB antenna greater than satisfactory. You can even rotate the antenna 90 levels for optimum alignment, which is a pleasant contact.
When it comes to weight and steadiness, the TX15 sits virtually completely degree on a neck strap (with two 18650 batteries). It may well additionally stand upright on a flat floor by the best way.
It weighs roughly 790g together with 18650 batteries, inserting it between the TX16S and the Boxer. For comparability, my each day driver, the T20S, weighs simply 540g, and I do discover elevated fatigue when flying the TX15 for prolonged durations. When you do longer classes, I extremely suggest utilizing a neck strap.
As a result of the TX15 encompasses a bigger show, the decrease portion of the radio is barely prolonged to accommodate it. This makes the radio really feel a bit extra bottom-heavy in comparison with the Boxer, particularly when you find yourself pinching. Whereas this received’t have an effect on everybody, thumbers might discover the radio extra snug to make use of than pinchers. Once more, a neck strap might help off load among the weight throughout lengthy flights.
Pinching and thumbing are two other ways of holding the sticks, be taught extra right here: https://oscarliang.com/pinch-thumb-stick/
All ports—together with the USB-C, headphone jack and DSC coach port—are situated on high of the radio. I’m particularly happy that RadioMaster has lastly merged the 2 USB-C ports (charging and simulator) right into a single, unified port. This simplifies setup when connecting to FPV simulators. The TX15 is suitable with all main FPV sims together with Liftoff and Tryp, although it could require stick calibration the primary time.
There’s a cloth deal with on the again, will be simply eliminated if you’d like.
One small disappointment: the TX15 doesn’t include a gimbal/swap protector just like the Boxer does, and there’s no neck strap included within the field. For a $200 radio, I anticipated these primary equipment to be a part of the package deal. Together with them would’ve added to the general worth.
On the underside, there are two threaded holes that seem to help attachments akin to a waist help or different equipment.
Show and Consumer Interface
The TX15 encompasses a vibrant shade touchscreen. Whereas it’s barely smaller than the display screen on the TX16S, it really has a barely increased decision, which makes the picture seem sharper and crisper. It jogs my memory of a smartphone display screen—brilliant, responsive, and simple to learn even beneath daylight. The backlight brightness can also be adjustable relying on ambient gentle circumstances.
The menu button format is almost an identical to that of the Boxer and TX16S. The buttons are doubtless CNC-machined aluminum, providing a satisfying tactile click on and a concave floor that helps your fingers naturally settle into place.
Being a touchscreen, it significantly simplifies menu navigation—particularly when utilizing the on-screen keyboard. Typing in mannequin names or making configurations is way quicker than utilizing the scroll wheel alone.
That mentioned, except you’re continually tweaking settings or coming into information, I personally don’t discover shade touchscreens important. My each day radios, just like the Boxer and T20S, use primary monochrome shows, which have served me effectively for the previous 4–5 years (and earlier than that I used to be already utilizing the TX16S with shade touchscreen). These less complicated shows additionally devour much less energy—an vital benefit for lengthy flying classes.
Nonetheless, shade screens open the door to options that monochrome shows merely can’t supply—like operating superior LUA scripts for cool issues like real-time navigation, customized telemetry layouts, or displaying personalised mannequin photographs. There’s rather a lot you are able to do with a shade display screen, and it’s a subject that in all probability deserves its personal devoted article.
AG02 Gimbals
The TX15 Max Version I examined comes with AG02 gimbals, whereas the bottom mannequin options normal Corridor sensor gimbals (V5.0).
The AG02 is a brand new model of the AG01 and value about $90 a pair when bought individually: https://oscarliang.com/product-4xb7. So you might be saving $30 by going with the Max Version for those who finally need to improve to the AG02 gimbals.
So, do you have to go for the AG02s? That relies on your wants and finances.
The usual Corridor sensor gimbals are completely nice for many customers. You’ll have an awesome expertise flying with them and they are going to be simply as dependable. However for those who’re in search of a premium contact and may justify the fee, the AG02s supply a smoother and extra refined management really feel, particularly compared these gimbals aspect by aspect. It’s like driving a automotive: a finances automotive will get you from level A to B with out points, however driving a well-tuned, high-performance automotive is a extra pleasing expertise—you probably have the choice, why not deal with your self?
The AG02s supply intensive adjustability :
- Spring rigidity changes
- Stick journey changes for each axes
A lot of the changes will be carried out on the surface of the gimbals, no have to open the radio. And bear in mind, even for those who go together with the bottom mannequin now, you’ll be able to at all times improve to AG02 gimbals later—they’re plug-and-play suitable with the TX15.
They use M4 threads for the stick ends, which is vital to notice for those who plan to make use of customized stick ends. Fortunately, the included Radiomaster’s Sticky360 stick ends are amongst my favorites, so I didn’t really feel the necessity to swap them out.
Yet one more perk unique to the Max version: RGB gimbal lights. These customizable LED rings are mounted round every gimbal and will be configured through LUA scripts. By default, they present a rainbow sample, however you’ll be able to change the colours or results based mostly in your preferences.
Switches and Controls
When you’re already acquainted with the RadioMaster Boxer, transitioning to the TX15 will really feel seamless—the layouts are practically an identical. That mentioned, there are a couple of notable enhancements.
On the entrance, all 4 high switches are 3-position, which I believe is a superb design selection. This affords higher flexibility for a wider vary of builds, together with mounted wings and planes. In direction of the center, you get two rotary dials with a middle detent—very best for digicam tilt, pan management, or different analog changes.
On the shoulders, the left swap is a latching button, and the appropriate swap is a momentary button. Each will be swapped out with conventional toggle switches—RadioMaster features a 2-position and a momentary swap within the field, and 3-position switches can be found for buy: https://oscarliang.com/product-u472
The method is plug-and-play—no soldering required. Out of the field, this configuration works effectively for multirotor pilots, however the skill to reconfigure these shoulder switches is big folks in search of completely different setups.
Moreover, there are six RGB-backlit buttons above the display screen. These are generally used for flight mode choice however are absolutely customizable within the settings to fit your wants.
Small Ergonomic Quirk
One factor I did discover: the highest nook switches are a bit too near the gimbals. When you’re a pincher with bigger palms, there’s an opportunity you’ll by chance bump them mid-flight. I’ve had the identical concern on the T20S and ended up relocating these switches some place else. Apparently, the Jumper T15 solved this by barely repositioning the highest switches towards the middle of the radio, which is perhaps a good suggestion for future revisions of the TX15.
No Sliders
Additionally price mentioning: there are not any sliders on the TX15. For many FPV pilots, this received’t be a difficulty, however for those who require analog sliders, simply concentrate on this limitation.
Battery and Charging
The TX15 comes with a battery tray within the rear compartment that holds two 18650 Li-ion cells which generally have between 3000mAh and 3500mAh capability.
You even have the choice to make use of RadioMaster’s 5000mah battery pack (21700 cells), however take into account—these are considerably heavier. Personally, I choose 18650s—they’re lighter which is best for weight steadiness, and a full cost is often greater than sufficient for an entire afternoon of flying.
Notice: Batteries aren’t included. You should utilize each button high and flat high cells. I like to recommend RadioMaster’s personal 18650 3200mAh cells: https://oscarliang.com/product-ykiv
I’ve examined them and located the efficiency stable: https://oscarliang.com/best-18650-li-ion-battery/#Outcomes-and-Suggestions
Charging is straightforward: simply plug a USB-C cable into the port on high. It requires a 5V energy supply, and attracts as much as 2A (charging energy peaks round 10W). Absolutely charging depleted 3200mAh batteries takes roughly 3 hours.
Energy Consumption & Battery Life
Listed here are my measurements of the TX15’s present draw (display screen brightness at minimal except acknowledged in any other case). Voltage enter: 7.4V.
- RF module off: 0.3A
- RF module off, display screen at max brightness: 0.42A
- 10mW: 0.46A
- 25mW: 0.51A
- 50mW: 0.54A
- 100mW: 0.58A
- 250mW: 0.71A (cooling fan activated by default)
- 500mW: 0.82A
- 1000mW: 1.07A
- 1000mW with display screen at max brightness: 1.19A
Estimated Runtime (with 3200mAh battery):
- 10mW: Just below 7 hours
- 250mW: ~4.5 hours
- 1000mW: slightly below 3 hours
Radio Firmware: EdgeTX
That is the place the TX15 actually pulls forward of different radios in its class. It encompasses a highly effective H7-based processor, which delivers smoother menu navigation, quicker LUA script execution, and higher future-proofing as EdgeTX evolves with extra demanding options.
It additionally comes with 4GB of onboard reminiscence (3.6GB usable), the most important we’ve seen in any EdgeTX radio to date. For comparability, its closest rival—the Jumper T15—affords solely 2GB (with 1.3GB usable). This additional reminiscence provides you far more room for mannequin photographs, sound packs, themes, and telemetry logs.
Though you don’t want an SD card, there’s nonetheless a microSD slot obtainable that helps as much as 32GB FAT32 playing cards. That is particularly helpful if you wish to retailer giant media recordsdata or backups. Notice, nevertheless, that inserting a microSD card disables the onboard flash reminiscence—you’ll be able to’t use each on the similar time. That mentioned, most customers in all probability received’t run out of the inner area.
Out of the field, the TX15 ships with EdgeTX model 3.0.0, so that you’re absolutely able to make the most of essentially the most present options .
RF Module: ExpressLRS
The interior 1W ExpressLRS RF module helps twin band 2.4GHz and 900MHz frequency bands (you need to use one frequency, however not concurrently). You possibly can swap between them through the ExpressLRS LUA script, supplied your receiver additionally helps the chosen frequency. This provides the TX15 wonderful versatility, particularly for pilots who need to fly all the pieces from micro drones to long-range rigs. The RF module comes with ELRS V3.5.5 out of the field.
That mentioned, it doesn’t help Gemini XROSSBAND mode just like the Radiomaster GX12 does, which can disappoint severe long-range pilots who prioritize hyperlink redundancy and failover. If you wish to use this function you should buy a Nomad module and set up it within the exterior RF module bay within the again.
However for many pilots—together with myself—that is hardly a limitation. I primarily fly on 2.4GHz, and I’ve efficiently flown out to over 10 kilometers with no points by any means.
Radio Comparisons: GX12, Jumper T15
Some aspect by aspect comparability with the Radiomaster GX12 radio and Jumper T15.
What I Like and Don’t Like
Truthfully, I’ve actually been having fun with this radio. There’s rather a lot to love concerning the TX15, particularly within the Max version:
Professional
- Foldable antenna – compact and handy for transport
- Upgraded AG02 gimbals – clean and exact really feel, simple changes
- Shiny shade display screen – sharp and simply seen even in direct daylight
- Sooner H7 processor – menus and LUA scripts really feel snappy
- 4GB onboard reminiscence – plus a microSD card slot for additional storage
- Interchangeable shoulder switches – simply swappable with out soldering
- Constructed-in ExpressLRS – helps each 2.4GHz and 900MHz
- Wonderful ergonomics – contoured grips and stable construct
- Single USB-C port – handles each charging and FPV simulator use
Cons
- Bigger than the GX12 – and even barely bigger than the Boxer, making it much less moveable
- Fairly a heavy radio – might trigger fatigue throughout prolonged flying classes
- Barely bottom-heavy when pinching – a neck strap is useful, particularly for longer flights
- Outer high switches are near the gimbals – can get in the best way when pinching with giant palms
- Missing swap/gimbal protector and neckstrap
Remaining Ideas
After spending a while flying with the Radiomaster TX15, I can confidently say it is a extremely succesful radio. It’s one of the vital full transmitters—filled with options, wonderful construct high quality, and considerate design updates. It affords all the pieces most FPV and RC pilots would ever want, whether or not you’re flying quads, mounted wings, or gliders.
In truth, I believe it has absolutely changed the TX16S for me when it comes to day-to-day usability and have set. It’s future-proof, highly effective, and versatile. That mentioned, not everybody wants all of this, and in case your present radio is working effectively for you, there’s no urgent cause to improve—except a few of these new options are must-haves to your setup or flying model.
Purchase the TX15 Base Mannequin:
Purchase the TX15 Max Version:
Personally, I’ll nonetheless use the Pocket for backpacking and journey on account of its portability, and for a lot of budget-conscious pilots, it’s in all probability the higher option to get began. However for severe flying classes, the TX15 is coming with me—it’s such a flexible radio and may achieve this a lot, it’s arduous to depart behind.