Best EDF Jets: Choosing Your First and Next Ducted-Fan RC Jet
The best EDF jet depends on your experience. For a first jet, choose a stable foam model with a 50–70 mm fan, tricycle landing gear or belly landing, and ideally gyro stabilisation, flown from a smooth runway. Next steps are 70–90 mm sport jets with retracts and flaps, then twin-fan fighters like the Su-27 or large 90–120 mm scale jets. Fan size sets the power and battery: 64 mm jets usually run on 4S, while 70–90 mm jets typically use 6S.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Fan sizes
| Fan | Typical battery | Character |
|---|---|---|
| 30–50 mm | 2S–3S | Small park jets, light and quick |
| 64 mm | 4S | Popular entry size, good runway jets |
| 70–80 mm | 6S | Sport jets with retracts and flaps |
| 90 mm | 6S–8S | Larger, stable, realistic |
| 120 mm | 10S–12S | Big scale jets |
Typical pairings; check each model’s specifications.
What makes a good first jet
A first EDF jet should fly at moderate speeds, have a large wing area for gentle landings, and be tough enough to forgive mistakes. Stabilisation with a beginner or rescue mode helps a lot. Simple foam jets like trainer-style or “sport” jets fit this better than scale fighters, which tend to be heavier and faster. A smooth paved runway or very short grass is important: small wheels and fans don’t like rough fields.
A sensible progression
- Fly a trainer and a low-wing sport plane confidently.
- Start with a 50–64 mm stable foam jet.
- Move to a 70–80 mm sport jet with retracts and flaps.
- Try a twin-fan fighter like the RC Su-27 or a 90 mm scale jet.
- Large 120 mm or turbine jets come later, with club support.
How EDF differs from props
A ducted fan has many small blades in a tube, which looks and sounds like a jet but is less efficient than a large propeller. That means high current draw, shorter flights (often 3–6 minutes) and less thrust at low speed, so jets need speed to fly and longer take-off runs. Basics are explained in what an EDF RC plane is.
Buying checklist
- Battery size and connector you can support (4S or 6S).
- Landing gear type suited to your field.
- Stabilisation and rescue mode for the first jet.
- Spare parts availability, especially fans, gear and nose cones.
- A runway or smooth surface nearby.
Flying tips
- Take off with smooth throttle and let the jet build speed before rotating.
- Fly wide circuits; jets need room to turn.
- Keep speed up on approach, then reduce gradually; flaps help.
- Use a timer and land with battery reserve.
- Check fan blades for damage after every session.
Costs
Beyond the jet itself, high-discharge 4S or 6S batteries are a big part of the cost, and EDF jets use them hard. Budget for several packs and a capable charger. Fans and retracts are the most common replacement parts.
Common first-jet mistakes
The most common mistake is flying too slowly on approach. A jet that loses speed near the ground can stall and drop a wing, so keep a little more speed than feels natural and let it bleed off over the runway. Another is turning too tightly at low altitude, which also leads to stalls. Batteries cause many crashes: EDF jets drain packs quickly and the power can fade suddenly, so land early. Finally, debris sucked into the fan from rough grass damages blades and causes vibration; inspect and replace damaged fans before the next flight.
FAQ
What is the best EDF jet for beginners?
A stable 50–64 mm foam jet with stabilisation, after learning on a trainer.
How long do EDF jets fly?
Usually 3–6 minutes.
Do I need a runway?
Most jets need a paved or very smooth surface.
4S or 6S?
64 mm jets usually use 4S; 70–90 mm typically 6S.
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
