Introduction
A top-quality transmitter can have multiple modes. These modes operate and give commands differently. But to know if there’s any particular advantage or not, you’ve to compare them.
What are the main differences between mode 1 vs mode 2 transmitter?
The most significant difference between both modes is their functionality. In mode 1, the throttle is controlled by the right stick. Because of that, the elevation is controlled by the left stick. On mode 2, this is totally reversed. So, piloting an airplane is easier with mode 1. On the contrary, helicopters are easy to control with mode 2.
Anyhow, that was a quick glance at the comparison. These topics have to be further elaborated to properly grasp them.
Keep reading if you want to know more about these modes and their usage.
Mode 1 vs Mode 2 Transmitter: Notable Differences
Without knowing the basics, comparing will be difficult. That’s why you always have to be familiar to notice the differences.
Let’s take Spektrum DX6 and DX6e for example. These two radios might seem exactly the same at first glance. To actually see a difference, you’ve to know about their specifications.
We’ve made a short table to help you out and save you some time. Have a look-
| Feature | Mode 1 Transmitter | Mode 2 Transmitter |
| Throttle | Right Stick | Left Stick |
| Elevation (Pitch) | Left Stick | Right Stick |
| Aileron (Roll) | Left Stick | Right Stick |
| Rudder (Yaw) | Right Stick | Left Stick |
| Suitable Vehicle | Airplanes | Helicopters |
As you can see, they’re just total opposites. Which one do you think will suit your style more?
Mode 1 vs Mode 2 Transmitter: Comprehensive Discussion
If you haven’t made a decision yet, that’s totally fine. They are mainly technical differences and nothing else. At the end of the day, it’s still going to be your preference.
But it’s our task to guide you to that decision. So, leave that to us and go through each point carefully.
Throttle
What hand do you normally use for throttling? Most people like to control their vehicles with their left hand. Leaving the acceleration to the right hand.
You see, planes and helicopters aren’t driven in the same way. For planes, throttling is super important but there are more functions. On the contrary, for helicopters, throttling is the whole thing.
Slowing down the plane efficiently is going to help you in landing. That’s why you’ll prefer mode 1. Because by throttling with the right stick, you get to control the motor RPM.
However, if you’re a lefty, mode 2 will be great. So, it really comes down to preference. You can also test both modes and find out which one feels better.
If your transmitter is single mode, you can bind them to the receiver manually.
Elevation
The elevation is important for controlling the plane up and down. Without it, you can’t land properly.
The elevation stick is going to be the other stick beside the throttle. Again, for planes, the most popular choice is the left stick of mode 1.
Leaving the right stick to control the throttle, your left is completely free. This allows you to slightly adjust the plane in midair.
On mode 2 however, you’re controlling the aircraft’s elevation with your right stick. This may seem hard for planes. But for helicopters, it’s super easy because they’re all about elevation.
Aileron
Both sticks of the transmitter are moveable in all 4 directions. Because of that, you can easily do barrel rolls by rotating sticks sideways.
Barrel rolls are less significant than throttling. So, it’s best done by the left hand.
In mode 1, aileron controls are done by the left stick, making it perfect. On the other hand, mode 2 has aileron controls in the right hand. If you’re comfortable with rolling with your right hand, don’t hesitate to choose.
In general, aileron controls are super sensitive and require good receivers. Even good transmitters like Spektrum require good Spektrum receivers.
Rudder
The rudder is the yaw movement. In easy words, it controls your vehicle’s rotation around the vertical axis.
In mode 1, the rudder is controlled by the right stick. Although, it’ll mostly be used for throttling. But for occasional rotation, it can easily be done by your right thumb.
In mode 2, it’s controlled by the left stick. Since helicopters don’t have rudders, you don’t have to worry about using them.
Speaking of transmitters, here are our top picks-
| Transmitter 1 | |
| Transmitter 2 |
You can now easily pick whichever you like the most and get started!
Our Verdict
As you can see, both modes are just preferences. But for right-handed people, mode 1 is the best for airplanes.
For example, you can throw in a barrel roll or two with your left hand and control the throttle with your right hand.
But for helicopters, elevation is necessary and is key to everything. Since they only have throttle and elevation, mode 2 is significantly easier.
You can also convert mode 1 to mode 2 by yourself. It’s also possible to create your own flight modes and customize them. Almost all transmitters support up to 6 different flight modes.
FAQs
Question: Is Mode 1 or Mode 2 more common?
Answer: Between modes 1 and 2, mode 1 is the most common. You can control the elevation and aileron with your left hand. Leaving enough gap for your right hand to fully focus on the throttle.
Question: What is an aileron in aviation?
Answer: Aileron means the control of the wings. By altering the aileron, you can roll your plane sideways or enough to rotate. It’s mostly used to make slow turns in midair.
Question: What are RC flight modes?
Answer: Flight modes are a specific pattern of command that gets activated once you choose them. These modes have a different set of settings for pitch, yaw, and elevation movement.
Wrapping Up
That was everything we could come up with and explain on mode 1 vs mode 2 transmitter. We sincerely hope that you’ve found some answers to the questions that you had.
Also, make sure to keep your transmitter clean. Don’t forget about the antennas too. No matter which mode you prefer, it has to be clean to perform its best.
Finally, good luck and happy flying!