Radiomaster Boxer Radio Review in 2024: Worth The Price?

The world of FPV (first person view) drone flying has seen the rise of two main radio transmitter form factors in recent years.

On one end, you have the traditional style like the RadioMaster TX16S. On the other, the gamepad style like the RadioMaster Zorro.

But what if you want something in between – not too big but not too small?

In this in-depth review, I’ll be taking an up-close look at the RadioMaster Boxer to see if it really is the “just right” middle ground FPV drone radio controller.

Overview

At first glance, the Boxer doesn’t look drastically smaller than the RadioMaster TX16S. But once you pick it up, the ergonomic differences become clear. The Boxer fits perfectly in my hands with a natural grip, while the TX16S feels a bit bulkier in comparison.

The Boxer packs in many of the features I love about the RadioMaster TX16S into a more compact form factor. It runs EdgeTX just like most modern FPV drone radios, meaning it has all of the same powerful customization options and capabilities.

Some of the highlights of the Boxer include:

• Ergonomic design that feels great in the hands
• Large 6200mAh battery option for extended flight times
• Internal ExpressLRS module that can output up to 1W of power
• Hall effect gimbals with smooth, slop-free feel
• Vibrant backlit LCD display
• USB-C charging/data port
• Headphone jack for trainer port
• Easy access to switches, trim buttons, and tuning knobs

While it does have a smaller form factor, the Boxer retains many of the switches, dials, and controls I’ve come to rely on for muscle memory. Let’s take a more detailed look at the hardware.

Hardware Walkthrough

Form Factor and Ergonomics

Comparing the Boxer side-by-side with the TX16S, the size difference doesn’t seem drastic at first. But the Boxer shines when you actually hold it in your hands.

The sculpted grip conforms perfectly to my fingers and palm. My index finger has a ledge to rest on, giving me very positive control. The corner platform allows my hand to cradle the radio securely. It just feels like it was molded precisely for my hands.

The TX16S has some similar design elements, but the execution doesn’t feel quite as refined. For example, the grip has a sharper ridge that doesn’t conform as smoothly. The ledge for my finger also doesn’t have the same contoured shape.

When holding the TX16S, my whole hand wraps around the body. But the Boxer is compact enough that my palm cups the radio right on the corner – a very natural, ergonomic feel.

Switching to a pinch grip, the Boxer still feels great. My middle finger rests on the top notch, ring finger on the ledge, and thumb reaches the sticks with no issues. No matter how I hold it, the Boxer just has a perfect fit for my hands.

The shoulder switches are the only minor ergonomic issue I noticed. They sit a bit too low on the shell, making them slightly tricky to press when holding normally. I’d likely use the 2-position switch on the left shoulder for less frequently used functions like beeper or LEDs.

Switches, Pots, and Buttons

Despite the smaller size, the Boxer retains a healthy selection of controls:

• (2) 3-position switches
• (2) 2-position switches
• (1) 6-position switch
• (2) pots with center detent
• (2) trim buttons
• (2) shoulder switches

The pots have a particularly nice feel – very stiff resistance and pronounced center detent. Much more premium than the looser pots you sometimes find on budget radios.

The 6-position switch is excellent for changing rates/modes or other toggle functions. I also like having dedicated trim buttons for making quick adjustments when flying fixed wing models.

While not as many controls as a full-sized radio, I think RadioMaster hit the sweet spot for packing in plenty of tactile feedback options without cluttering the compact design.

Gimbals

The Boxer comes equipped with RadioMaster’s latest V4 Hall sensor gimbals. Compared to their top-end AG01 gimbals on the TX16S, they are almost just as smooth with barely any slop.

Testing the analog values in EdgeTX, I see about 20 units of deflection in the V4 gimbals if I continue pressing at full stick throw. The AG01 gimbals exhibit less than 10 units of deflection – but honestly most pilots will never notice the minor difference in a real-world flying scenario.

The gimbals have a very smooth yet damped feel, especially on the throttle stick. No sticking or grinding sensations at all. Overall an excellent experience that will keep stick inputs precise for many hours of flying.

If you do want to upgrade to the AG01 gimbals, it is possible as a $130 upgrade. But for most pilots the V4 Hall gimbals will provide exceptional performance at a more affordable price point.

Charging and Interfaces

The charging port is located on the bottom of the radio – a signature RadioMaster design choice. This does mean you can’t charge while using it as a controller for simulators on your computer. Not a huge nuisance but an interesting deviation from most other radios.

On the plus side, the Boxer supports Quick Charge 3.0 fast charging up to 7V at 2A. This should help reduce the time needed to fully recharge the large 6200mAh battery pack compared to traditional 5V charging.

There is also a standard 3.5mm headphone jack for audio and trainer port functions. And the removable antenna uses an RP-SMA connector, allowing upgrades to higher gain models if desired.

Displays and UI

One of the biggest differences moving to the Boxer from the TX16S is losing the large color touchscreen display. However, you still get all of the same powerful EdgeTX menus and options – just on a smaller LCD display.

During configuration and setup, I definitely prefer using the TX16S’s rich UI. But when actually at the field and flying, having the vital telemetry and values right on the Boxer’s screen is still very handy.

Info Screens

The LCD shows the basic stick, switch, and trim positions, plus has 3 additional info pages:

• Page 1: Timer and voltmeter
• Page 2: Flight mode, receiver RSSI, RF mode, transmitter voltage
• Page 3: Model name, trim positions

You can also press the Telem button to bring up dedicated telemetry values like cell voltage, RSSI, transmitter voltage, etc.

While not as flashy as the TX16S touchscreen, I can still get the key numbers I need during a flying session. And the backlighting makes it visible even in bright sunlight.

Menu System

Navigating through the EdgeTX menus does feel a bit more convoluted on the Boxer’s interface. But again, everything is there – just accessed in a different way.

I’ll take the intuitive touch menus of the TX16S for complex setup and configuration. However, the Boxer gets the basics done with minimal fuss. Once my models are dialed in, I mainly just need the telemetry screens when out flying anyway.

RF Performance

One of the Boxer’s biggest selling points is the internal ExpressLRS module that can transmit up to 1W of power. This gives it incredible range and penetration capabilities for its size.

Output Power Options

There are 3 power level options when using the ExpressLRS module:

• 10 mW
• 100 mW
• 1000 mW (1W)

To enable 1W output, you’ll need to be running the EDGETX v2.x firmware. Most other radios with internal ExpressLRS top out at around 250 mW before needing external active cooling.

Running 1W does kick the Boxer’s internal fan on high speed to prevent overheating. But the boxed design seems very effective at channeling airflow over the module.

Long Range Performance

In my testing, the Boxer has no issues going multiple kilometers on just 100 mW output power. Binding and staying connected to nano receivers was rock solid.

Cranking it up to 1W gives a huge boost in penetration and range. I managed over 6km line-of-sight without failsafe – and likely could have gone much further if not limited by visual range.

The combination of RadioMaster’s excellent RF modules and the Boxer’s optimized housing makes this a long-range beast in a compact form factor.

Legacy Support

If ExpressLRS isn’t your protocol of choice, the Boxer can also be ordered with a 4-in-1 multi-protocol module compatible with FrSky, FlySky, Futaba, and several other common receivers.

However, you will be giving up a lot of potential range vs. something like ExpressLRS or Crossfire. The 4-in-1 module is nice for compatibility, but the ExpressLRS option is probably the way to go for most pilots.

My Experience Flying with the RadioMaster Boxer

After binding up my quads and planes, it was time to take the Boxer out for some test flights. Right away, the comfort and ergonomics shone through.

Having my radio fit naturally in my hands vs. feeling bulky or blocky provided a much more enjoyable flying experience. I was able to grip it securely and precisely place inputs without any strain.

Everything I need is within easy reach – switches, pots, buttons, trim tabs. My muscle memory translated over quickly even from the larger TX16S.

The gimbals offer a great mix of smooth precision and positive tactile feedback. And I honestly didn’t miss the touchscreen much once I got in the air. The info I need most is readily available on the backlit LCD.

For FPV, being able to enable 1W output from the internal ExpressLRS module gave me the range and penetration I need for aggressive, long-distance flying. It feels great to have that power in such a lightweight package.

Speaking of lightweight – the ability to use a giant 6200mAh battery is a huge plus. With one of these fitted, I can fly for many sessions without ever worrying about the radio dying prematurely.

Overall, my time spent flying with the Boxer has been fantastic. For pilots looking for “just right” sized radio with pro-level features, it hits the sweet spot.

Who is the RadioMaster Boxer Good For?

The RadioMaster Boxer hits a compelling spot in the market for pilots who want:

A more compact radio – The slimmer, smaller design is perfect for backpack transport and comfortable all-day use.

Longer flight times – The option to use huge 6200mAh+ batteries means you can keep flying for multiple LONG sessions without recharging.

Built-in ExpressLRS – No need for bulky modules or external receivers. Get incredible internal RF performance with output power up to 1W.

Ergonomic comfort – Sculpted grip and intuitive layout reduce hand fatigue for those marathon flying days.

Touchscreen simplicity – Easy-to-navigate backlit LCD gives you the telemetry data you need during flight.

While appealing in many ways, the Boxer may not be the right choice if you:

• Heavily rely on the touchscreen experience for configuring models
• Want an ultra-compact gamepad style radio
• Require the largest number of switches/controls possible
• Prefer an internal multi-protocol module for maximum receiver compatibility

But for the pilot seeking a versatile radio that’s sized “just right” – the Boxer checks all the boxes.

RadioMaster Boxer vs. Mambo: Which is Better?

The Team BlackSheep Mambo is probably the closest competition to the RadioMaster Boxer. These two share a very similar compact form factor. Let’s compare some of the key factors:

Ergonomics – The Boxer fits my hands a bit better. But the Mambo is also comfortable. This one is mostly personal preference.

Controls – The Boxer gives you 2 pots and an extra 3-position switch vs. just 1 pot on the Mambo.

Gimbals – Both use quality hall sensor gimbals. The Boxer’s feel a little smoother to me but not by much.

Display – The Mambo has a crisp OLED while the Boxer uses a more basic backlit LCD.

RF Performance – Here’s where the Boxer has a big advantage with its 1W capable ExpressLRS module vs. the Mambo being limited to around 250 mW.

Battery – Again, the Boxer pulls ahead with support for much larger battery options. The integrated battery of the Mambo caps out at 1800mAh.

For me, the long battery life and increased RF output power are huge bonuses in favor of the Boxer. But the Mambo is also an excellent compact radio, especially if you prefer the gamepad-style form factor.

RadioMaster Boxer vs. RadioMaster TX16S: Which Should You Get?

If you’re trying to decide between the RadioMaster Boxer and TX16S, it really comes down to your priorities:

Portability – The Boxer wins if you want a grab-and-go radio that’s easy to transport and comfortable for extended use.

Controls – The TX16S has more switches and controls if you need the largest possible number.

Displays – Hands down the TX16S has a better display. But the Boxer gives you what you need.

RF Performance – With its 1W output, the Boxer actually exceeds the 250mW limited TX16S in this regard.

Batteries – Again, the Boxer has more flexibility with battery options, letting you pick larger packs.

Customization – Both run EdgeTX so have near limitless options for sticks, modes, telemetry etc.

For me, the upgraded RF performance and ergonomic comfort make the Boxer a better daily driver. But I can understand pilots who heavily rely on the TX16S’s touchscreen sticking with it. You really can’t go wrong with either.

Who is the RadioMaster Boxer NOT Good For?

While the Boxer will suit most FPV pilots very well, there are some cases where it might NOT be the best choice:

Fixed wing experts – Limited controls and no touchscreen could constrain advanced fixed wing model setup.

Freestyle on tight budget – The TX16S or Zorro may be more affordable options for freestyle pilots.

Racing purists – Shaving every gram for competition racing, the TX16S is lighter.

Hardcore long range – External Crossfire or R9 module will get more distance than even 1W ExpressLRS.

Multirotor acro mode – Touch menus can help build complex acro mixer curves.

The Boxer is still versatile enough for all of these applications. But there are likely better specialized radio choices too for certain niche users.

Upgrading the RadioMaster Boxer: Mods and Accessories

One benefit of the Boxer and EdgeTX ecosystem is that there are tons of mods and upgrades you can make:

• Get FPVCrate thumb grips – More comfort and finer throttle control
• Upgrade gimbals to AG01 – Drop-in higher performance gimbals
• Go metal with ProtoRC stick ends – Precision machined aluminum upgrades
• Add neck strap – Help take weight off your hands for longer flights
• Print protective cases – Sturdy 3D printed covers to prevent scratches
• Upgrade antenna – Increase range with high gain antenna options
• Add JR bay module – Use external RF modules like Crossfire, R9, etc.
• Get colored LCD screen film – Prevent sun glare and customize look

One of the best benefits of the Boxer and EdgeTX is that the sky is the limit when it comes to enhancements and accessories down the road.

Final Thoughts

Over my many hours of testing, the RadioMaster Boxer has impressed me. It occupies a sweet spot that should suit many FPV pilots looking for a high-performance radio in a more compact form factor.

The comfortable contoured grip and intuitive control layout make it a pleasure to fly with for extended periods. Having hall sensor gimbals, multi-protocol module, haptic feedback, and all the other features I expect in a modern radio – all in a perfectly palmable package – feels like the ultimate traveling companion.

Small details like the stiff/smooth pots, positive shoulder buttons, and carefully sculpted contours show RadioMaster’s design experience. This feels like much more than a cramped version of the TX16S.

My only real gripe is losing the touchscreen from the TX16S. I do wish updating models and menus was a bit simpler.

However, the backlit LCD gives me the critical telemetry I need when at the field. And the ergonomic trade-off is worth it for the increased portability.

For anyone seeking a compact, full-featured transmitter – it’s hard to beat what the Boxer brings to the table. It hits a genuine sweet spot in the market and has become my new daily driver radio.

So there you have it – my complete review of the RadioMaster Boxer. I encourage you to pick one up using the links below and experience it for yourself.

Feel free to drop me any questions or thoughts in the comments too!

Clear skies and happy flying.