BETAFPV Air65 Brushless Whoop Quadcopter – Complete Buyer’s Guide & Review

The BETAFPV Air65 Brushless Whoop Quadcopter is a compact yet powerful FPV drone designed for beginner-to-intermediate pilots who want to master indoor flying with precision. Built on a lightweight yet durable platform, this whoop is a top-tier option for those who demand reliability, responsive flight control, and seamless ELRS protocol support out of the box.

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✅ Key Features of BETAFPV Air65 Brushless Whoop

Ultra-Light 1S Brushless Design for Indoor Flight

Weighing in at just under 21g (with battery), the Air65 is purpose-built for agile indoor flights. Its 1S 300mAh battery powers the brushless motors with minimal voltage sag, offering snappy throttle response and safe operation even in tight environments like hallways or office spaces.

• Dry Weight: ~18.2g

• With Battery: ~21.6g

• Frame Size: 65mm

• Propellers: 31mm 4-blade

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🧠 ELRS 2.4GHz Built-In for Ultra-Low Latency & Reliable Signal

The built-in ExpressLRS (ELRS) 2.4GHz receiver ensures industry-leading long-range and low-latency performance. Unlike traditional SPI-based RX modules, this board uses a true UART-based ELRS chip, offering stable signal penetration even through walls and significantly lower failsafe rates.

ExpressLRS Highlights:

• Open-source and customizable

• Compatible with all major ELRS radios (like Radiomaster Boxer, TX16S)

• Minimal setup time with binding phrase support

• Range: 500m to 1km indoors (under optimal conditions)

Flight Controller & ESC

The first 1S FC that uses the G473 processor, Air Brushless Flight Controller(4IN1) with balanced performance and lightness, only 2.9g. Powered and Industry-leading ICM42688P gyroscope, powering superior computing power and lightning-fast response times for precise flight execution compared to the F411. With multiple UART port options, it supports various function expansions. This all-in-one solution seamlessly integrates FC, ESC, OSD, and VTX, and even offers an optional ELRS receiver. The micro-sized OSD chip is customed. Immerse yourself effortlessly in the racing and freestyle world of Finger-Tip control, where unparalleled precision and responsiveness of the Air65 await.

Upgraded Air Canopy

Experience high-quality, clear, and sharper images with the lightweight C03 FPV Micro Camera, weighing just 1.45g. We’ve redesigned the Air Canopy structure to be more flexible, impact-resistant, and durable. The improved bending effect enhances flexibility, reduces the chances of breakage, and greatly enhances explosion resistance for easier installation. Effortlessly accommodates an assortment of Micro and Nano Analog cameras. Supporting angle adjustment from 25° to 50°. With it, Air65 can chase the limit of freestyle and racing victory worry less.

Propulsion System

Whether Freestyle or Racing Version, Air65 can remain agile enough to effortlessly conquer racing tracks, catering to the diverse needs of pilots. Racing Version focuses on high-speed and high-agility flight, utilizing the 0702SE|27000KV Motors and GF 1219S 3B Props for incredible speed bursts and agile steering. For a smooth and elegant free flight experience, the Freestyle Version features the 0702SE|23000KV Motors and HQ 31mm Ultralight 3B Props, allowing for timely responses and precise follow-up actions. This winning combo propels the Air65 far beyond any limitations in terms of speed and maneuverability.

The Ultralight LAVA 1S 260/300mAh Battery is a compact premier for Air65. With more concentrated center gravity, it offers crisper response, greater acceleration, and enhanced maneuverability. Featuring the groundbreaking Z-Folding Process, this LiHV battery exceeds conventional capacity and discharge thresholds. And equipped with the BT2.0 U Cable Pigtail, saying goodbye to folding cables, for easy plugging and an extended lifespan. Lighter weight by reducing pigtail length. Achieve the ultimate lightweight choice for drone racing or freestyle.

Air65 Frame

To enhance the flying experience, DIY enthusiasts have diligently worked on reducing the weight of the 65mm whoop drones, especially frames for an ultra-light structure. We upgraded the Meteor65 Micro Frame to the Air65 Frame, which achieves a remarkable weight lighter from 3.64g to 2.67g. It maintains exceptional strength and durability while introducing a new motor fixed slot, and optimizing a low-profile design. Having 6 color choices, it indisputably emerges as the top topgallant choice for pilots seeking an unparalleled ultra-light Sub18g 65mm 1S Whoop drone and personality.

Recommended Parts

• Radio Transmitter: LiteRadio 3 Pro, LiteRadio 3, LiteRadio 2 SE
• Goggles: VR03 FPV Goggles, VR02 FPV Goggles
• FC: Air Brushless Flight Controller(4IN1)
• Receiver: ELRS Lite Receiver, ELRS Nano Receiver
• Battery: LAVA 1S 260mAh 80C Battery, LAVA 1S 300mAh 75C Battery
• Props: HQ 31mm Ultralight 3B Props, GF 1219S 3B Props
• Colorful Frame: Air65 Brushless Whoop Frame
• Colorful Canopy: Air Canopy
• Screws: Meteor Series Motor Fixing Screws Pack (40PCS)
• Sticker: BETAFPV Waterslide Decals

FAQ

• Download the CLI and Firmware for the Air65(Racing Version)
• Download the CLI and Firmware for the Air65(Freestyle Version)

Package

• 1 * Air65 Brushless Whoop Quadcopter
• 1 * Air Canopy
• 4 * GF 1219S 3B Props(Racing Version) / HQ 31mm Ultralight 3B Props(Freestyle Version)
• 1 * Pack of Screws
• 1 * 4Pin Adapter Cable
• 1 * USB Type-C Adapter Board

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⚙️ F4 Flight Controller with Built-in ESC

At the heart of the Air65 is a F4 1S 5A AIO flight controller, delivering robust processing power and clean integration of the ESC and RX system. The integrated 5A BLHeli_S ESC ensures smooth throttle response, perfect for both racing lines and freestyle flicks indoors.

FC Specifications:

• MCU: STM32F411

• Gyro: BMI270

• ESC Firmware: BLHeli_S

• UARTs: 2 (with support for ELRS RX and VTX SmartAudio)

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🔋 Battery and Power System

The Air65 comes paired with a 300mAh 1S HV LiPo battery with PH2.0 connector, optimized for flight times of 4–5 minutes per charge under standard throttle management. The frame accommodates a snug battery bay, reducing vibrations and improving balance during agile maneuvers.

Battery Specs:

• Capacity: 300mAh

• Voltage: 3.8V HV

• Connector: PH2.0

• Discharge: 30C

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📹 Camera and Video Transmission System

While built as a beginner-friendly quad, the Air65 doesn’t cut corners on video quality. It is equipped with a C01 AIO Camera VTX combo delivering clear FPV feeds with 25mW transmission power, suitable for home, warehouse, and workshop environments.

• Camera: 600TVL CMOS

• FOV: 120°

• VTX Power: 25mW

• Channel Support: 40CH, Raceband ready

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✈️ Flight Performance – Smooth, Agile & Beginner-Friendly

The 11000KV brushless motors provide fast spool-up and high thrust-to-weight ratio, making the Air65 ideal for tight turns, sudden yaw spins, and precise throttle control in micro-spaces. Even first-time pilots can enjoy stable hovering thanks to Betaflight’s Angle Mode.

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📦 What’s in the Box?

• 1x BETAFPV Air65 Quadcopter

• 1x 1S 300mAh HV Battery

• 1x USB Battery Charger

• 1x Spare Props Set

• 1x Screwdriver

• 1x Quick Start Guide

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🧩 Ideal Use Cases

• Indoor FPV Training Grounds

• Educational Workshops

• Office/Indoor Freestyle

• Drone Racing Practice

• Indoor Cinewhoop-style footage (modding possible)

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📊 Technical Specification Summary

 

💡 Pro Tips Before First Flight

• Always bind with correct ELRS firmware version (check TX and RX compatibility)

• Use Angle mode to start; shift to Acro once comfortable

• Do not exceed 4.35V while charging 1S HV batteries

• Calibrate accelerometer before each major flight session

• Consider indoor prop guards for ultra-tight spaces

 

 

Understanding the Causes of LiPo Battery Failure in FPV Drones

LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries are the lifeblood of FPV drones, powering everything from the motors to the electronics that enable your quadcopter to soar through the skies. While these batteries are essential for high-performance flying, they are also delicate and prone to failure or premature death if not handled correctly. In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of LiPo battery failure, helping you to extend the lifespan of your batteries and ensure consistent performance during your flights.

1. Overcharging and Overvoltage

One of the most common causes of LiPo battery failure is overcharging. Charging a LiPo battery beyond its maximum voltage—typically 4.2V per cell—can cause significant damage. Overcharging can lead to the swelling of the battery cells, increased internal resistance, and, in extreme cases, thermal runaway, which can result in fire or explosion.

• Prevention: Always use a quality balance charger with built-in safety features to prevent overcharging. Ensure that you never exceed the recommended charge voltage for your specific LiPo battery.

2. Overdischarging

Overdischarging occurs when a LiPo battery is drained below its safe minimum voltage, typically around 3.0V per cell. Discharging a battery too low can cause irreversible chemical changes within the cells, leading to a loss of capacity, increased internal resistance, and eventual failure.

• Prevention: Use a low-voltage alarm or set your drone’s flight controller to warn you when the voltage drops below a safe threshold. It’s also advisable to land your drone as soon as the voltage drops to around 3.5V per cell under load, giving you a buffer to avoid overdischarge.

3. Physical Damage

LiPo batteries are particularly vulnerable to physical damage, which can occur due to crashes, punctures, or rough handling. Any damage to the battery casing can lead to exposure of the internal cells, which may result in swelling, leakage, or short circuits.

• Prevention: Always inspect your batteries after a crash or rough landing. If you notice any dents, swelling, or other signs of damage, it’s best to safely dispose of the battery rather than risk using it. Protect your batteries with soft cases or padding during transport and in your drone.

4. High Current Draw

FPV drones, especially those built for racing or freestyle flying, often draw high currents from their batteries. While LiPo batteries are designed to handle high current loads, drawing excessive current for extended periods can cause overheating, swelling, and a decrease in battery lifespan.

• Prevention: Ensure that your battery’s C-rating (the measure of how much current the battery can safely deliver) matches the demands of your drone’s setup. Avoid pushing your batteries to their limits during every flight, and consider using batteries with a higher C-rating for demanding flying styles.

5. Improper Storage

Improper storage is a major factor in the premature aging of LiPo batteries. Storing LiPo batteries fully charged or fully discharged for extended periods can cause capacity loss and increase the risk of swelling.

• Prevention: Store your LiPo batteries at a storage voltage of around 3.7V to 3.85V per cell. Use a balance charger’s storage mode to set your batteries to the correct voltage before storing them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing batteries in hot environments, such as inside a car or near direct sunlight.

6. Poor Charging Practices

Charging LiPo batteries improperly can lead to a range of issues, from reduced capacity to complete failure. Using incorrect settings on your charger, charging at too high or too low a current, or using a damaged charger can all contribute to battery failure.

• Prevention: Always double-check your charger settings before plugging in your batteries. Charge your batteries at a moderate rate (typically 1C, where C is the battery’s capacity) unless you’re confident that a faster charge won’t harm the battery. Regularly inspect your charger for wear and tear, and replace any damaged components.

7. Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and exposure to water can also lead to LiPo battery failure. High temperatures can cause the battery cells to swell, while cold temperatures can reduce capacity and increase internal resistance. Exposure to moisture can lead to short circuits and corrosion.

• Prevention: Fly and store your batteries within their recommended temperature ranges. Keep them dry, and avoid flying in rainy or excessively humid conditions. If you suspect that a battery has been exposed to moisture, allow it to dry thoroughly before use, but be cautious as the internal damage may have already occurred.

8. Age and Usage Cycles

Even with the best care, LiPo batteries have a finite lifespan. Over time and through repeated charge/discharge cycles, the chemical composition of the cells degrades, leading to reduced capacity, increased internal resistance, and eventually, failure.

• Prevention: Monitor the performance of your batteries regularly. If you notice a significant drop in flight time or increased swelling, it may be time to retire the battery. Keeping a log of your battery usage can help you track the number of cycles and predict when a battery is nearing the end of its useful life.

Read More About Lipo Batteries by clicking the link below:
https://oscarliang.com/fpv-drone-guide/

Checkout our Frames Collection by clicking the link below:
https://thefpvproject.com/product-category/frames/

1S = 1 cell  = 3.7V
2S = 2 cells = 7.4V
3S = 3 cells = 11.1V
4S = 4 cells = 14.8V
5S = 5 cells = 18.5V
6S = 6 cells = 22.2V

For example, we call a 14.8V battery a “4-cell” or “4S” battery.

LiPo battery is designed to operate within a safe voltage range, from 3V to 4.2V. Discharging below 3V could cause irreversible performance loss and even damage to the battery. Overcharging above 4.2V could be dangerous and eventually cause a fire.

However, it’s advisable to stop discharging when it reaches 3.5V for battery health reasons. For example for a 3S Lipo, the max voltage is 12.6V, and you should land when the voltage reaches 10.5V (at 3.5V per cell).