Quick Decision Tree
Which plane is right for you?
1. HobbyZone AeroScout S 2 (1.1m) — Our #1 Pick
- Wingspan: 43” (1095mm)
- Stabilization: SAFE + AS3X
- Prop: Pusher (rear-mounted)
- Includes: Airplane, DXS transmitter, USB charger (battery sold separately)
The AeroScout S 2 gets everything right for a beginner. The 43” wingspan is the sweet spot — big enough to be stable and track visually, small enough to transport in most cars. The pusher prop protects against ground strikes. SAFE Technology limits how far the plane can bank or pitch, giving you a real safety net while learning. As your skills grow, you can dial back the training systems and it becomes a capable sport flyer. It'll stay in your hangar long after you've moved on to more advanced planes.
Check Price at Horizon Hobby →2. HobbyZone Sport Cub S 2
- Wingspan: 24.3”
- Stabilization: SAFE + AS3X
- Includes: Everything including battery and charger
- Wind tolerance: Lower — pick calm days early on
A legitimate beginner airplane in a smaller, more affordable package. Unlike the AeroScout, everything comes in the box. The tradeoff is that the smaller size makes it more sensitive to wind — on a calm morning it flies beautifully, on a gusty afternoon it will challenge you more than you're ready for early on.
Check Price at Horizon Hobby →3. E-flite Apprentice STS 1.5m
- Wingspan: 59” (1500mm)
- Stabilization: SAFE + AS3X + panic recovery + assisted landing
- Best for: Beginners who want maximum safety net
- Battery: Sold separately
If you get into serious trouble, hold a button and the airplane auto-levels. It even has an assisted landing mode. The 59” wingspan gives outstanding stability in moderate wind. A bigger investment but a serious first airplane.
Check at Horizon Hobby →4. HobbyZone Carbon Cub S2 (1.3m)
- Wingspan: 51” (1300mm)
- Style: Scale Piper Cub appearance
- Stabilization: SAFE + AS3X
- Battery: Sold separately
If you want a trainer that looks like a real airplane, the Carbon Cub S2 is the answer. Modeled after the classic Piper Cub, it has genuine scale presence and still carries all the beginner-friendly technology. You're not sacrificing safety for style.
Check at Horizon Hobby →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | AeroScout S 2 | Sport Cub S 2 | Apprentice STS | Carbon Cub S2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 43” | 24.3” | 59” | 51” |
| SAFE Technology | Yes | Yes | Yes+ | Yes |
| AS3X | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pusher Prop | Yes | No | No | No |
| Battery Included | No | Yes | No | No |
| Wind Tolerance | Good | Lower | Excellent | Very Good |
| Best For | Most beginners | Budget/small space | Max safety net | Style + function |