At first look, the brand new RadioMaster TX15 may seem like a color-screen model of the beloved Boxer, however don’t be fooled—it’s rather more than that. After hands-on testing, I discovered the TX15 to be a thoughtfully engineered transmitter, full of sensible options that make it some of the forward-thinking EdgeTX radios to this point.
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 fanatics 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 greatest 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 comparable, besides these variations:
| Base Mannequin | Max Version | |
| Gimbals | Corridor Gimbals | AG02 Gimbals |
| Gimbal/Swap Colour | 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 pressure)
- 4 × Spare Excessive-Stress Gimbal Springs
- 2 × Gimbal Stick Set Screws
- 1 × Sticker Set
- 1 × Person Handbook
Specs and Options
Radiomaster TX15 MAX:
- Colours Accessible: Purple, Black, Gold
- Inner RF Module: ExpressLRS (Helps each 2.4GHz and 900MHz)
- Inner RF Output Energy: 10mW, 25mW, 50mW, 100mW, 250mW, 500mW, 1000mW (switchable)
- Antenna Achieve: 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 characteristic growth)
- 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 forth)
- 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 colour 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/Knowledge 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.
Left: TX15; Proper: TX16S
Whereas it shares an analogous format and type issue with the Boxer—particularly in dimension, weight, and change positions—the TX15 isn’t only a Boxer with a colour display. It introduces delicate however significant upgrades in ergonomics and design that make an actual distinction.
Left: TX15; Proper: Boxer
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 system with improved hand really feel and higher stability.
Left: TX16S; Center: TX15; Proper: Boxer
For the Max model, the radio is available in a carbon fiber-look faceplate (observe: it’s painted plastic, not actual carbon fiber). There are three gimbal colour choices—crimson, gold, and black—unique to the AG02 CNC gimbals. I opted for crimson gimbals, they usually look incredible in opposition to the carbon-fiber face.
Like practically each new radio launched previously two years, the TX15 makes use of a foldable antenna, just 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 larger acquire antennas, ExpressLRS has turn out to be so dependable and highly effective that almost all customers will discover the inventory 2dB antenna greater than ample. You can too rotate the antenna 90 levels for optimum alignment, which is a pleasant contact.
By way of weight and stability, the TX15 sits virtually completely degree on a neck strap (with two 18650 batteries). It may 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 every 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 advocate utilizing a neck strap.
As a result of the TX15 incorporates 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 gained’t have an effect on everybody, thumbers could 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, study extra right here: https://oscarliang.com/pinch-thumb-stick/
All ports—together with the USB-C, headphone jack and DSC coach port—are positioned 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 material deal with on the again, may be simply eliminated if you would like.
One small disappointment: the TX15 doesn’t include a gimbal/change 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 reminiscent of a waist help or different equipment.
Show and Person Interface
The TX15 incorporates a vibrant colour touchscreen. Whereas it’s barely smaller than the display on the TX16S, it really has a barely larger decision, which makes the picture seem sharper and crisper. It jogs my memory of a smartphone display—vivid, responsive, and simple to learn even underneath daylight. The backlight brightness can also be adjustable relying on ambient mild circumstances.
The menu button format is sort of similar 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 vastly 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 stated, except you’re consistently tweaking settings or getting into information, I personally don’t discover colour touchscreens important. My every 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 colour touchscreen). These less complicated shows additionally devour much less energy—an essential benefit for lengthy flying classes.
Nonetheless, colour screens open the door to options that monochrome shows merely can’t supply—like working superior LUA scripts for cool issues like real-time navigation, customized telemetry layouts, or displaying customized mannequin pictures. There’s rather a lot you are able to do with a colour display, 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 customary Corridor sensor gimbals (V5.0).
The AG02 is a brand new model of the AG01 and price about $90 a pair when bought individually: https://oscarliang.com/product-4xb7. So you might be saving $30 by going with the Max Version if you happen to finally need to improve to the AG02 gimbals.
So, must you go for the AG02s? That relies on your wants and funds.
The usual Corridor sensor gimbals are completely superb for many customers. You’ll have an incredible expertise flying with them and they are going to be simply as dependable. However if you happen to’re in search of a premium contact and may justify the price, the AG02s supply a smoother and extra refined management really feel, particularly when put next these gimbals aspect by aspect. It’s like driving a automobile: a funds automobile will get you from level A to B with out points, however driving a well-tuned, high-performance automobile is a extra pleasurable expertise—you probably have the choice, why not deal with your self?
The AG02s supply in depth adjustability :
- Spring pressure changes
- Stick journey changes for each axes
Many of the changes may be executed on the surface of the gimbals, no must open the radio. And bear in mind, even if you happen to go together with the bottom mannequin now, you may all the time improve to AG02 gimbals later—they’re plug-and-play suitable with the TX15.
They use M4 threads for the stick ends, which is essential to notice if you happen to 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 another perk unique to the Max version: RGB gimbal lights. These customizable LED rings are mounted round every gimbal and may be configured by way of LUA scripts. By default, they present a rainbow sample, however you may change the colours or results based mostly in your preferences.
Switches and Controls
When you’re already aware of the RadioMaster Boxer, transitioning to the TX15 will really feel seamless—the layouts are practically similar. That stated, there are a couple of notable enhancements.
On the entrance, all 4 high switches are 3-position, which I feel is a wonderful design selection. This presents larger flexibility for a wider vary of builds, together with mounted wings and planes. In the direction of the center, you get two rotary dials with a middle detent—best for digicam tilt, pan management, or different analog changes.
On the shoulders, the left change is a latching button, and the fitting change is a momentary button. Each may be swapped out with conventional toggle switches—RadioMaster features a 2-position and a momentary change 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. 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 situation on the T20S and ended up relocating these switches elsewhere. Curiously, the Jumper T15 solved this by barely repositioning the highest switches towards the middle of the radio, which is likely to be 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 gained’t be a difficulty, however if you happen to require analog sliders, simply pay attention to 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 note—these are considerably heavier. Personally, I choose 18650s—they’re lighter which is healthier for weight stability, and a full cost is often greater than sufficient for an entire afternoon of flying.
Notice: Batteries are usually not included. You should use 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). Totally charging depleted 3200mAh batteries takes roughly 3 hours.
Energy Consumption & Battery Life
Listed below are my measurements of the TX15’s present draw (display brightness at minimal except acknowledged in any other case). Voltage enter: 7.4V.
- RF module off: 0.3A
- RF module off, display 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 at max brightness: 1.19A
Estimated Runtime (with 3200mAh battery):
- 10mW: Slightly below 7 hours
- 250mW: ~4.5 hours
- 1000mW: just below 3 hours
Radio Firmware: EdgeTX
That is the place the TX15 actually pulls forward of different radios in its class. It incorporates a highly effective H7-based processor, which delivers smoother menu navigation, quicker LUA script execution, and larger 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 this point. For comparability, its closest rival—the Jumper T15—presents solely 2GB (with 1.3GB usable). This additional reminiscence offers you rather more room for mannequin pictures, sound packs, themes, and telemetry logs.
Though you don’t want an SD card, there’s nonetheless a microSD slot out there that helps as much as 32GB FAT32 playing cards. That is particularly helpful if you wish to retailer massive media recordsdata or backups. Notice, nevertheless, that inserting a microSD card disables the onboard flash reminiscence—you may’t use each on the similar time. That stated, most customers in all probability gained’t run out of the inner house.
Out of the field, the TX15 ships with EdgeTX model 3.0.0, so that you’re absolutely able to benefit from probably the most present options .
RF Module: ExpressLRS
The interior 1W ExpressLRS RF module helps each 2.4GHz and 900MHz frequency bands (however not concurrently). You’ll be able to change between these by way of the ExpressLRS LUA script, offered 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 stated, it doesn’t help dual-band XROSSBAND mode just like the Radiomaster GX12 does, which can disappoint critical long-range pilots who prioritize hyperlink redundancy and failover. If you wish to use twin band 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 – easy and exact really feel, straightforward changes
- Shiny colour display – 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 – could 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 massive palms
- Missing change/gimbal protector and neckstrap
Closing Ideas
After spending a while flying with the Radiomaster TX15, I can confidently say it is a extremely succesful radio. It’s some of the full transmitters—full of options, wonderful construct high quality, and considerate design updates. It presents all the pieces most FPV and RC pilots would ever want, whether or not you’re flying quads, mounted wings, or gliders.
In reality, I feel 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 stated, not everybody wants all of this, and in case your present radio is working effectively for you, there’s no urgent motive to improve—except a few of these new options are must-haves on your setup or flying type.
Purchase the TX15 Base Mannequin:
Purchase the TX15 Max Version:
Personally, I’ll nonetheless use the Pocket for backpacking and journey as a result of its portability, and for a lot of budget-conscious pilots, it’s in all probability the higher option to get began. However for critical flying classes, the TX15 is coming with me—it’s such a flexible radio and may accomplish that a lot, it’s arduous to depart behind.
