MULTIROTOR FLIGHT CONTROLLERS
Flight controllers for FPV multirotors: flight control and onboard peripheral connections.
.png)
HOW TO CHOOSE A FLIGHT CONTROLLER
A flight controller (FC) processes sensor data and pilot commands, then generates signals for the ESCs. Compatibility with a build depends on the entire board, not just the processor name.
Start by checking support for the firmware you need and the exact board revision. F405, F722, and H743 identify the microcontroller, but not the sensors, port layout, or firmware target. Even controllers with similar names may have different hardware configurations.
Interfaces and peripherals
Before buying, list the devices you plan to use: receiver, GPS, video system, and other modules. Match their interfaces to the available FC ports. The stated UART count does not always equal the number of free ports; some may be used by onboard functions. Analog and digital OSD also require appropriate hardware and firmware support.
Power and mechanical compatibility
Check the supported input voltage, BEC output voltages, and allowable load on each rail. A BEC current rating is not a motor ESC rating. When choosing a board for a frame, consider the exact mounting-hole spacing, fastener diameter, board dimensions, and connector locations.
If buying the FC separately from the ESC, verify the control protocol, power supply, telemetry, and board-to-board connection documentation. Matching connector housings do not confirm cable compatibility. Always use the specifications for the exact model and hardware revision.
FAQ
An FC is a separate control board. A flight stack usually includes an FC and ESC selected to work together. If you already have a compatible ESC, you can replace just the controller; for a new build, a set often simplifies component selection. Check the actual package contents.
No. You need the target for your exact board and hardware revision. The same processor is used in different controllers with different sensors and pin assignments. Check Betaflight, INAV, or ArduPilot support separately in the board documentation and the relevant project documentation.
Compare your peripheral list with the port assignments in the FC diagram. The receiver, GPS, and video-system control may require separate interfaces; some UARTs may be used by onboard modules. Consider the actual available pins and supported functions, not just the total UART count in the description.
There is no universal compatibility. The control protocol, signal levels, power supply, and any required telemetry must match. For complete stacks, also check the board-to-board cable pinout: identical connectors from different manufacturers may have different pin assignments.
Analog OSD requires a suitable OSD chip and video connections. A digital system needs a supported communication interface, compatible firmware, and a suitable power supply. A preinstalled connector alone does not guarantee support for every camera or video transmitter.