Eachine E160: Budget Brushless 6-Channel Flybarless Helicopter
The Eachine E160 is a budget six-channel collective-pitch flybarless helicopter with brushless main and tail motors (1308 main, 1104 tail). It has a 305 mm main rotor, a metal CNC rotor head, a 7.4 V 600 mAh 2S battery and around 5 minutes of flight. A one-button switch changes between 6G (self-levelling) and 3D modes. The RTF comes with a transmitter, and the E160 V2 is compatible with Futaba S-FHSS radios. It’s a step up from brushed micro helis like the XK K100.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Channels | 6, collective pitch, flybarless |
| Main rotor / length | 305 / 305 mm |
| Main motor | 1308 brushless |
| Tail motor | 1104 brushless |
| Battery | 7.4 V 600 mAh 25C |
| Flight time | About 5 min |
| Range | About 120 m |
| Radio | RTF, or S-FHSS compatible (V2) |
From the manual and retailer listings, checked October 2026; availability varies.
Why choose it
Brushless main and tail motors give more power and longer life than brushed micros, and the 305 mm rotor makes it more stable outdoors than tiny helis. The direct-drive tail removes a common failure point. It’s good value for pilots who want a small heli capable of real 3D.
Modes
- 6G: self-levelling for hovering practice.
- 3D: aerobatic rate mode.
- Throttle hold for crashes.
- Idle-up for constant head speed in 3D.
Learning tips
- Use a simulator first.
- Hover in 6G mode over grass or a big room.
- Practise all orientations before 3D.
- Use throttle hold immediately in a crash.
- Fly 3D only with height and space.
Fundamentals are in RC helicopter 101.
Spares
Main blades, tail blades, main gear, servos, feathering shaft and batteries are the usual spares. Carry extras to the field. Bent shafts and blades should be replaced after crashes.
Compared with similar helis
The E160 is close in size and concept to the XK K110S and similar 300 mm class helis; parts aren’t always interchangeable. The smaller Eachine E120 is cheaper but less powerful. See XK K110S and Eachine E120.
Using your own radio
The V2 BNF works with S-FHSS compatible radios and multi-protocol modules, giving better control and setup. Binding is explained in how to connect an RC helicopter to a remote.
Before the first flight
Check that all screws in the rotor head are tight, the blades are fitted with the right tension (they should fall under their own weight when the heli is tilted but not flop around), and the swashplate sits level with the sticks centred. Charge the battery fully and set the transmitter to 6G mode with throttle hold on. Place the helicopter on a flat surface before connecting the battery so the gyro initialises properly, then release throttle hold and spool up slowly. Let it get light on the skids before lifting off to check the tail holds and there’s no vibration.
Flying outdoors
At 305 mm, the E160 copes with light wind better than smaller helis, but it’s still light. Fly outdoors on calm days over grass, which cushions crashes. Watch the battery timer closely; with about 5 minutes per pack, set a 4-minute timer on the transmitter.
Maintenance
Check servo linkages for wear, the main shaft for bends and the tail motor mount for cracks after hard landings. Brushless motors need little care, but keep them free of grass and dirt.
Who it suits
It suits pilots stepping up from brushed micro helis and anyone wanting a small brushless 3D helicopter at a low price, as long as they’re prepared to buy spare parts.
FAQ
Is the Eachine E160 brushless?
Yes, both main and tail motors.
How long does it fly?
About 5 minutes.
Can beginners fly it?
In 6G mode, with simulator practice.
What battery does it use?
7.4 V 600 mAh 2S LiPo.
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
