What is a Drone Simulator?
What is a drone simulator? It’s a Must-Have tool for FPV pilots. A drone simulator is virtual training software that allows players to experience the thrill of flying FPV drones through immersive digital environments. Designed for both beginners and seasoned pilots, these drone sims let users choose from various FPV drone models and test their skills across diverse 3D-rendered landscapes – from urban cityscapes to mountain ranges. With ultra-realistic physics engines and high-definition graphics, modern FPV drone simulators create an authentic cockpit experience that makes users feel they’ve truly stepped into the pilot’s seat.
An FPV drone simulator enables pilots to push their limits, practice in unfavorable weather conditions, or squeeze in extra training when time is limited. For beginners, it’s an excellent way to learn how to fly without the risk of damaging equipment or incurring costly repairs or replacements. Whether you’re honing your skills or just starting out, a quality drone simulator significantly reduces the learning curve while saving you money. It’s a must-have tool for anyone passionate about FPV drone flying.
Where to Download Drone Simulator?
Most drone simulators can be downloaded on Steam again. There are also some simulators that can be downloaded from their official website. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to download a simulator on Steam.
- Step 1: If you’re using Steam for the first time, you’ll first need to sign up for an account.
- Step 2: Search for the drone simulator you want in the search box in the top right corner.
- Step 3: Most simulators are chargeable. Select the simulator you want and click ‘Add to cart’ to buy it.
- Step 4: Click ‘LIBRARY’ and download the simulator you bought, after that you can play it.
How to Choose Drone Simulators?
Here are some popular drone simulators in the market.
- DRL Simulator
- Liftoff Drone Simulator
- Velocidrone Simulator
- FPV Freerider
- RealFlight 9
- Phoenix RC Simulator
- AeroSIM RC
- Uncrashed FPV Drone Simulator
- Tiny Whoop Go
- FPV.SkyDive
- Real Drone Simulator(RDS)
You can check the guide of What’s the Best FPV Drone Simulator for Beginners to learn more.
Considerations When Choosing a Drone Simulator
When choosing the right drone simulator, it’s important to think about what you need it for, who it’s for, and the most important things to look for. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best fpv simulator for you own.
System Compatibility
- Make sure the simulator is compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Check the hardware requirements — some simulators need higher performance (e.g., powerful GPUs or processors).
Realism and Physics Engine
- Look for realistic flight physics (e.g., air resistance, gravity, motor response).
- Advanced users may prefer simulators that allow custom parameter adjustments (e.g., PID tuning, camera angles, motor settings).
Controller Compatibility
- Check if the simulator supports popular FPV drone controllers (e.g., FrSky, Taranis, Radiomaster).
- Check if additional adapters are needed (e.g., USB-C or wireless adapters).
Multiplayer and Community Support
- Does the simulator offer online multiplayer modes for competitive or cooperative training?
- Active player communities and access to custom maps or drone models can enhance your experience.
Price and Other
- Free vs. paid options: Paid simulators often have better physics engines and more features.
- Look for a variety of scenarios and tracks, such as racing, freestyle, and exploration modes.
Recommendations for Choosing a Drone Simulator
For Beginners:
- Start with Liftoff or FPV.SkyDive—both are affordable options for learning basic controls without breaking the bank.
- Pair with an entry-level controller like the Jumper T-Lite for practice.
For Racing/Professional Training:
- Choose Velocidrone or the DRL Simulator—both feature super accurate physics engines, perfect for skill improvement.
- Invest in a mid-to-high-end controller like the Radiomaster TX16S for better precision and feel.
For Freestyle/Creative Flying:
- Opt for Uncrashed or Liftoff—both offer open maps and better visual effects for freestyle flying and creative exploration.
For Multiplayer Fun:
- Liftoff and Velocidrone have active multiplayer modes, making them great for flying with friends online.
These suggestions are for everyone, from beginners to racers and freestyle fans, and everyone in between. Find the best drone simulator for you and your budget!
What You Need When Flying Drone Simulator?
It’s rather useless to use a game console or keyboard because the abilities won’t transfer to a genuine radio controller. To maximize training benefits and develop muscle memory, it is best to use a suitable radio. In the long run, it’s a worthwhile investment because you can keep using the same radio to fly the actual drones.
My recommended radios are plug-and-play compatible with the simulators covered on this website; just plug in the USB cord, and your computer will recognize it as a gaming joystick. The radio in the simulator should then be usable; it’s that easy.
Here is detail guide to help you choose radio controller for FPV drone.
Radio Controller Setup and Control for Drone Simulators
Optimize your experience in drone simulators with these controller configuration methods tailored for FPV drone simulators and other training platforms.
Connections
- Direct Wired Connection – Most RC controllers (e.g., Radiomaster Boxer, TX12) connect directly to your computer via USB. You need to calibrate the joystick channel in the simulator.
- Wireless Adapter – Use ELRS/ExpressLRS/TBS Crossfire wireless module (e.g. BetaFPV LiteRadio 3 Pro). It supports wireless low-latency transmission for more freedom of operation.
- Gamepad Compatibility – Some drone simulators (e.g., DRL Simulator) support Xbox or PlayStation controllers, but the control accuracy is poor and suitable for beginners or recreational gameplay in entry-level drone sims.
Stick Controls
Flying an FPV drone starts with understanding the four main controls: Roll, Pitch, Yaw, and Throttle. These inputs determine how the drone moves through the air and are managed using the two sticks on your controller.
The Four Controls
- Roll: Using the right stick, roll by pushing left or right. The drone will roll to the left or right as a result.
- Pitch: Also controlled by the right stick, but this time by pushing it forward or pulling it back. Pitching forward points the nose of the drone down, while pulling back raises it up.
- Yaw: Using the left stick, push left or right to control yaw. Yaw can be thought of as turning the drone in the same way that you would turn your head.
- Throttle: Using the left stick, push forward or backward to control the throttle. This regulates the amount of power delivered to the motors. Due to its inability to return to the center, this stick will deviate differently from all the other inputs. Rather, it starts at zero, stays there, and offers you the entire range of motion up to one hundred percent. One of the most challenging things to learn when you first start FPV is throttle control, particularly if you’re coming from something like the Mavic where the “throttle” is more of a “go up or down” command than a real throttle.
Flight Modes
The flight mode you select can affect how an FPV drone behaves. The three most prevalent ones are as follows:
- Acro Mode (Manual) – You have complete manual control in acro mode; leveling is not automated. The drone will remain at that angle until you adjust it if you tilt it and then release the stick. Racing, freestyle tricks, and cinematic flying all require this mode. Although there is a learning curve, it provides the greatest freedom and precision once you get used to it.
- Angle Mode (Stabilized) – When you release the sticks in angle mode, the drone levels itself automatically. It is easy for beginners to learn and is comparable to flying a DJI Mavic. Nevertheless, it restricts the drone’s tilting range, which may hinder more complex movements.
- Horizon Mode (Hybrid) – The Horizon mode combines aspects of the Angle and Acro modes. When the sticks are centered, the drone self-levels, similar to Angle mode. However, the drone will flip or roll like it would in Acro mode if you press the sticks past a certain point. Although it lacks the accuracy of full Acro, it’s a nice transitional mode.
Practice in Acro mode as soon as you can, even if angle mode can be useful when you’re first starting out. Gaining proficiency in Acro allows you to fly FPV to its fullest and gets you ready for more complex flying techniques.
Radio Controller Settings in the Drone Simulator
Before you get into the drone simulator ready to fly, you need to calibrate the radio controller parameters. I’ll use Uncrashed and Liftoff simulators as examples for demonstration.
Uncrashed
Open Uncrashed and enter the main menu, and then click ‘OPTIONS’ to access configuration.
Under the Model2 control profile, select the AUTO setup mode. Follow on-screen prompts to map these four primary flight controls:
- Throttle (Vertical climb/descent)
- Yaw (Left/Right rotation)
- Roll (Tilting sideways)
- Pitch (Forward/Backward tilt)
Move your transmitter’s sticks fully in the directions indicated by the simulator to ensure accurate detection.
Liftoff
From the main menu, go to Options > Controller Controls (left-side menu).
Click ‘Start Calibration’ to begin calibration.
Center all control sticks and hold for about 3 seconds.
Rotate each stick through its full range of motion (e.g., throttle up/down, yaw left/right) when prompted. he simulator will automatically detect your transmitter’s four primary channels (AETR by default).
Wait for confirmation, then save your settings.
Key Tips for Optimizing Your Drone Simulator Experience
Hardware Requirements for Smooth Performance
To run high-fidelity drone simulators like Uncrashed or Velocidrone, prioritize a dedicated graphics card (e.g., NVIDIA GTX 1060, RTX 2060, or AMD RX 580). Integrated GPUs often struggle with realistic physics rendering and detailed environments.
Avoid Input Lag: Wired > Wireless
While wireless controllers offer convenience, FPV drone simulators demand precision. USB cable connections minimize latency—critical for mastering freestyle tricks or racing lines. If wireless is unavoidable, ensure your receiver/transmitter supports low-latency protocols.
Test Before You Invest
Not all drone sims feel the same. Try free demos first:
- Velocidrone offers a trial version on their official website.
- Liftoff and DRL Simulator frequently release limited-time free tiers. Demo testing helps gauge compatibility with your gear (e.g., radio transmitter responsiveness).