XK X450 VTOL: The Tri-Rotor Plane That Hovers, Specs and Tips
The XK X450 (also sold as WLtoys XK X450) is a small VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) RC plane. It takes off like a multirotor using three 1370 brushless motors, then tilts into forward flight like a plane. It has a 450 mm wingspan, weighs about 209 g, runs on a 3S 11.1 V 1000 mAh LiPo and offers a stabilised 6G mode (with barometric altitude hold) and a 3D mode for aerobatics. Listed flight times are about 11–12 minutes hovering and 15–16 minutes in horizontal flight.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 450 mm |
| Size | 450 × 445 × 107 mm |
| Weight | about 209 g |
| Motors | 3 × 1370 brushless |
| Battery | 3S 11.1 V 1000 mAh |
| Flight time | About 11–12 min vertical, 15–16 min horizontal (claimed) |
| Modes | 6G (stabilised, altitude hold) and 3D |
| Radio | 2.4 GHz, 6 channels |
From retailer listings, checked October 2026.
How it flies
In hover mode, the X450 uses its three motors like a tricopter, so you can take off vertically, hover and land on a small spot. Switching to plane mode tilts the motors forward and the wing takes over lift for efficient forward flight. Transitions are handled by the flight controller. VTOL concepts in general are covered in VTOL RC planes.
First flights
- Charge the 3S battery fully.
- Calibrate on a flat surface as the manual describes.
- Start in 6G mode and practise hovering low.
- Climb to a safe height before transitioning to plane mode.
- Fly gentle circuits, then transition back to hover to land.
6G vs 3D
6G mode limits angles and holds altitude, making the X450 forgiving for beginners. 3D mode gives full control for flips and aerobatics, and needs more skill. Learn transitions and landings in 6G before trying 3D.
Tips
- Fly in calm weather; it’s light.
- Keep spare props; VTOL landings can tip it over.
- Check motor mounts after hard landings.
- Land with battery reserve; transitions use power.
- Store the battery at storage voltage.
Indoors or outdoors?
Its small size lets it hover indoors in large spaces, but forward flight needs outdoor space. Small planes in general are covered in micro remote control airplanes.
Why VTOL
VTOL planes remove the need for a runway or hand launch, which makes them handy for small fields and for beginners nervous about launches and landings. The trade-off is complexity: more motors, more software and more things to check.
Mastering transitions
The transition between hover and plane mode is the trickiest part of VTOL flying. Do it at a safe height, into the wind, with a full battery. Expect the plane to dip slightly as it builds forward speed; keep the wings level and let it accelerate. For the transition back to hover, slow down first, then switch, and be ready for the nose to rise. Practise transitions many times at height before trying them near the ground.
Repairs
EPO foam dents and cracks can be glued. Motor mounts and the tilt mechanism are the most important parts to check after crashes. Keep a set of spare props and a spare motor if available.
Update firmware if the maker releases improvements, and keep the original manual for transition procedures and mode switches.
Above all, practise patiently.
Hover practice indoors in a large hall is a great way to build confidence before outdoor transitions.
FAQ
What is the XK X450?
A small VTOL RC plane that hovers like a tricopter and flies like a plane.
How long does it fly?
About 11–16 minutes depending on mode (claimed).
Is it good for beginners?
Yes, in 6G mode with care.
What battery does it use?
A 3S 1000 mAh LiPo.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
