One of the differences between Phoenix and RealFlight is the controllers. Phoenix uses a real RC transmitter and RealFlight uses either their proprietary controller or you can get the interface to use a JR/Spectrum transmitter. If you already have a radio/transmitter with a training port you can probably use Phoenix. Here is a list of compatible models. If not you can get a version that comes with a radio/transmitter, either a Spectrum DX4 or DX5. I got the version without and use my Spectrum DX8. I have not tested this on RealFlight yet. I don’t want to have to buy the interface.
If you are expecting to use your radio on a real helicopter or quadcopter, I would suggest getting at least a DX6 ($140) or better. A DX8 ($300) if you want to get telemetry back, a DX9 ($450) would be ideal. If you are going to be using it for a plane, then the DX4 would be okay.
The only draw back to using a real radio is always having to keep it on charge, and having to set up different models when changing from one plane or helicopter to the next. I set up 2 models, a Phoenix AP and a Phoenix Heli.
Phoenix RC Graphics1Graphics on Phoenix is great, not just for the aircraft, but terrain shots are very realistic. It is like being at a real field. There are 25+ Photofields that include Air Strips, Soaring Sites, Water Scenes and more. You can import a panoramic photo and make your own flying field. I have not tested this.
Weather conditions are variable as well so you can practice in the wind or at night. If you are into flying helicopters at night, this is great.
Phoenix includes a lot of styles of R/C models including helicopters, quadcopters, airplanes, float-planes, auto-gyros, tilt-rotors and more. There are 175 or so. There is also a model builder function if you want to build your own model. Phoenix has 4 quads including the DJI Phantom, which is why I bought it. RealFlight has 3 quads, but does not have the Phantom.
I would say Phoenix is about as realistic as you can get without going to the field. Airplanes and helicopters are very close to the real thing. I found that the Phantom was a little easier to fly on the sim but still it gives you some hands on experience before trying the real thing.
So which is better. Depends. I really like both. You can’t go wrong with either one. If you don’t want to have to deal with charging your radio then RealFlight with their InterLink controller would be the way to go. If you want to use a real radio then it’s probably a toss up. They cost about the same initially. Phoenix does not charge for upgrades at this time, RealFlight does.
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