Eachine E120 and E120S Helicopters: Specs, Modes and Tips
Eachine sells two different helicopters under similar names. The E120S is a 6-channel collective-pitch flybarless micro helicopter with a 290 mm rotor, a weight of about 115 g, a 2405 brushless direct-drive main motor, a coreless tail motor, a 6-axis gyro (3D6G) and a 2S 500 mAh battery for about 5–8 minutes; it’s compatible with Futaba S-FHSS radios. The plain E120 is listed as a simpler 4-channel helicopter with 6-axis stabilisation and optical-flow position holding. Check which one you’re buying.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
E120S specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Rotor diameter | 290 mm |
| Length / height | 265 / 88 mm |
| Weight | about 115 g |
| Main motor | 2405 brushless, direct drive |
| Tail motor | 8520 coreless |
| Battery | 2S 7.4 V 500 mAh 30C |
| Flight time | About 5–8 minutes |
| Radio | 2.4 GHz, Futaba S-FHSS compatible |
From Eachine and retailer listings, checked October 2026.
E120 vs E120S
The E120S is a collective-pitch 3D-capable helicopter that can be flown with stabilisation or in full manual mode. The E120 is a simpler 4-channel model aimed at beginners, with features like optical-flow position holding. If you want to learn real helicopter flying towards 3D, choose the E120S; for easy indoor fun, the E120 may suit better. Micro helicopter types are compared in micro RC helicopters.
E120S flight modes
The 3D6G system offers a 6-axis stabilised mode that self-levels for learning and a 3-axis 3D mode for aerobatics and inverted flight. Learn in 6-axis mode, practising hovering in all orientations, before switching to 3D at a safe height.
Flying tips
- Charge 2S packs with a proper balance charger.
- Initialise on a level surface, keeping the heli still.
- Fly over carpet or grass at first.
- Use throttle hold to protect motors in a crash.
- Carry several batteries; flights are short.
Parts
- Main blades and tail rotor.
- Main shaft and feathering shaft.
- Tail motor (coreless motors wear).
- Servos and canopy.
- Spare batteries.
Bigger options
For outdoor flying in light wind, a larger helicopter like the Eachine E200 is steadier. Many pilots keep a micro like the E120S for indoor practice and a larger heli for outside.
Using your own radio
Because the E120S is compatible with Futaba S-FHSS, pilots with compatible Futaba radios or multi-protocol transmitters can bind it to their own radio instead of the bundled one. Set up a new model memory and check all channel directions and modes before flying.
Indoor flying
At 115 g with a 290 mm rotor, the E120S suits large indoor spaces such as gyms and halls, and calm outdoor days. Indoors, clear the space, turn off fans and keep people out of the flying area. The 6-axis mode makes it easy to hover in place, and the size is small enough that crashes are rarely costly. Outdoors, even light wind pushes a micro helicopter around, so keep it close.
Learning plan
Use a simulator alongside the real helicopter. Practise hovering tail-in, side-in and nose-in in 6-axis mode, then slow circuits, then figure eights. Switch to 3D only when you can recover from any attitude in stabilised mode.
Keep spare main blades and a tail motor on hand from the start, as these wear or break first while learning.
Short daily practice sessions build orientation skills fastest.
FAQ
What’s the difference between E120 and E120S?
The E120S is 6CH collective pitch; the E120 is a simpler 4CH model.
How long does the E120S fly?
About 5–8 minutes per battery.
Can the E120S do 3D?
Yes, in 3D mode.
Can I use a Futaba radio?
Yes, it’s S-FHSS compatible.
More on this topic: the complete RC Helicopters 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
