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What Is the Difference Between the Spektrum DX6 & DX7?

The piloting of radio-controlled (RC) aircraft allows would-be aviators the ability to fly their own plane or helicopter without the expense of buying a full-sized aircraft; it's easily a costly investment, even when buying used. Horizon Hobby's Spektrum brand of radio transmitters is exclusively designed for use in radio-controlled vehicles, and the DX series is tailored to suit those interested in RC aviation. The DX6 and DX7 are both well-suited to RC aircraft but feature a number of differences that may influence a buyer's decision.

Compatibility
- Both the DX6 and DX7 are compatible with both RC airplanes and helicopters. You can program the DX6 to control either. While still including all-in-one capability like the DX6, the DX7 comes in two varieties. The DX7 is available in airplane-specific and helicopter-specific configurations, featuring additional specific controls for flaps in airplanes, throttle curve, gyroscope programming and alternative flight modes for helicopters. Airplane and helicopter modes are still available on both controllers.
Model Memory
- Another key difference between the DX6 and the DX7 is their model memory capacity. While both are capable of saving multiple configuration modes for different models, the DX6 can only save 10 settings for different models. The DX7 can save upward of 20 model settings per unit. When taking into consideration the time required to program a control device for RC aviation, the extra settings can come in extremely handy.
Receiver
- Both the DX6 and DX7 are equipped with 2.4 GHz receivers. However, the DX6 only features six channels and can only support up to class 400 RC helicopters without the threat of interference. The DX7, however, has support for seven channels on it's receiver, and is designed to handle virtually any size RC helicopter or plane. The DX7 is also designed so that interference from broadcast towers, other RC vehicle controllers, and even model-generated RF noise, won't affect the reception.
Airplane Flap Control
- Another key difference is the amount of control the DX7 offers over the DX6 for RC airplanes. While the DX6 has two-position flap controls, the DX7 has three-position flap control, allowing for usage with planes with more complicated flap systems and greater control over flap position during operation.
Purchase Price
- One key difference between the two systems is less technical and more about practicality. While the DX6 is somewhat more limited in its capacity than the DX7, it is considerably less expensive. Less experienced RC hobbyists, or those who are comfortable with the trade-off, may find this decreased cost as an enticing purchase incentive.

Aviation