As someone who enjoys racing RC speed cars, I decided to become more involved and find the best GPS for RC speed runs.
Although it felt like there was so much to choose from when it came to these gadgets, I did not have an issue with deciding which devices would meet my needs and wants. However, it was a lengthy process, which is why I decided to write this article.
My compact GPS speed checker seems to do the job. 41km/h for an entry level RC race car. pic.twitter.com/CpcWSYVCUl
— Phillip Merrick (@MerrickPhillip) February 11, 2018
I researched 15 different products and ultimately decided on four different GPS devices for my speed run. My hope is to help save others time and effort by narrowing down the choices of which products I think are the best in terms of the qualities they possess.
After reading this article, you will officially know:
- My top GPS pick
- GPS devices that I think are also great
- My buyer’s guide advice on GPS devices for RC speed runs
- My reviews on each device mentioned
- Other must-haves that you should consider purchasing with your selected device
My Top Pick
SKYRC GSM020 →
What’s Inside?
- RC Data analyzer
- Satellite Tracking
- Long battery life & data sharing
Killer Feature: Accurately analyzes and measures time, acceleration, speed, distance
Buying Options
In my opinion, this device is one of the best choices. There is not much that it cannot do. In fact, this device allows you to track your RC car’s performance as well as measure the speed, time, velocity, acceleration, and distance. It has a long battery life and is compatible with apps that can connect through Bluetooth.
Also Great
SKYRC GSM-015 →
What’s Inside?
- Speedometer altimeter for RC car, plane, or quadcopter
- Easy changing of MPH-KPH
- Device that checks the speed and altitude
Killer Feature: It can tell you how fast your RC car is going as well as provide all the data you need to know at your fingertips.
Buying Options
This is another great pick that will quickly show you how fast your RC car is going. It also provides all data to your fingertips with no computer needed. There is no need to wonder how accurate this device is as it has proven to have impressive accuracy skills. It is also easy to use and very simple to read.
Dynamite GPS Speed Meter 2.0 →
What’s Inside?
- GPS speed meter with a screen that allows you to view various things
- Lightweight size for easy on-the-go experience
- Built-in high-capacity LiPo battery
- USB cable included
Killer Feature: Comes with a screen on it that allows you to view your top speed, time, GPS LAT & LON, and top elevation.
Buying Options
My favorite parts about the Dynamite GPS Speed Meter 2.0 are that it is very durable as well as very accurate when telling me how fast my RC car can go. It is long-lasting and can read speeds up to 560 MPH.
Buyer’s Guide
When you are searching for the best GPS for RC speed runs, it is important to follow my buyer’s guide. The reason for this is because you want to make sure that you do not miss any qualities or features that a product has that you may be looking for. If you do not make sure that an item covers everything in this guide, you may end up with a device that you are not fully satisfied with because it may be missing a key feature that you wanted/needed. Below, I will go over five different steps to look for when determining which GPS you would like to purchase for your RC speed car.
Step 1: Do You Need Both GPS & GLONASS?
When it comes to positional accuracy GLONASS is not as good as GPS. However, the GLONASS satellites positioning helps it have better accuracy at higher latitudes.
The main difference that you should keep in mind when deciding if you need to buy both GPS & GLONASS is that the GPS satellites use the same frequencies but possess different codes for communicating, while GLONASS satellites operate on the same codes all the time with different frequencies. It is believed that accuracy is better with both GPS and GLONASS because two constellations are being used.
Step 2: Battery Type & Battery life
The battery type and battery life are very important aspects when shopping for a GPS for your RC speed car. You do not want to be in the middle of racing your RC car and the battery stop working. I have been cheap and not worried about the battery type or battery life and have experienced my car’s GPS cutting off because the battery drained quickly. Therefore, I think it is worth the investment to make sure that you select a GPS with an excellent battery type and battery life.
Step 3: What will you measure?
Different GPS devices measure different things. For example, one GPS may measure the speed and time, while another GPS may measure the speed, distance, and acceleration. Determining what you would like your GPS to measure is important because you want to make sure that you select the right one that measures exactly what you are looking for.
Step 4: Memory
Memory is an important feature to look at when selecting a GPS for your RC speed car. This is because you want it to have good memory that you can go back and look at. If it does not hold onto enough memory, you may lose important information that you needed.
Step 5: Mobile App Compatibility
Although this may seem unimportant, mobile app compatibility is an essential in my opinion. The reason I believe this is because you want to be able to connect your device through a mobile app and look at all your stats as quickly as possible. Some devices require a computer, but when you are not at home that is very inconvenient. Therefore, I highly recommend making sure that you choose a device with mobile app compatibility.
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1. SKYRC GSM020 →Best for individuals looking for a device that can successfully measure and analyze their speed, velocity, time, acceleration, and distance. My Top Pick |
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2. SKYRC GSM-015 →Best for individuals wanting to know how fast their RC car is going as well as be able to access all their vehicle’s data on the go. Also Great |
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3. Dynamite GPS Speed Meter 2.0 →Best for people interested in viewing their speed, time, GPS LAT & LON, and elevation on one screen Also Great |
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4. Powerhobby GNSS Performance Analyzer →Best for those looking for a GPS and GLONASS that will log their data and speed. |
1. SKYRC GSM020
SKYRC GSM020 is overall one of the best devices on this list. It is equipped and ready to measure all sorts of things when it comes to your RC speed run. When it comes to the list of needs for a GPS, there is not much that this gadget does not check off.
Tracking: A GNSS engine that is connected to GPS and GLONASS satellite systems.
What you can measure: Velocity, acceleration, speed, time, and distance.
Battery Type & Battery life: A rechargeable LiPo battery that provides up to five hours per charge.
Display: No screen display.
Memory: A built-in 1M memory.
Mobile App: Compatible with mobile apps that allow Bluetooth connectivity.
Why I chose it:
SKYRC GSM020 has all the features that I feel are absolutely necessary for a great GPS for my RC speed run. It can track and analyze everything that I need it to as well as allow me to share data with friends.
For an in-depth video of someone using the SKYRC GSM020, check out Tomley RC’s YouTube video. In this video, you will learn all you need to know about this fantastic device as well as see it in action.
Buying Options
Next, I will tell you about the SKYRC GPS Speedometer Altimeter.
2. SKYRC GSM-015
SKYRC GSM-015 is the perfect tool for seeing how fast your RC car is going. Everything you need is provided at your fingertips, which makes things so much easier. The accuracy of this device is exceptional.
Tracking: A GNSS engine that is connected to GPS and GLONASS satellite systems.
What you can measure: Speed and altitude.
Battery Type & Battery life: A built-in rechargeable LiPo battery. The operating time is 150 minutes before needing charged again.
Display: A small display in black and gray.
Memory: A built-in 1M memory.
Mobile App: No mobile app compatibility.
Why I chose it:
I chose SKYRC GSM-015 because it is very simple and easy to use as well as read. This device is perfect for those who do not need to use it longer than two hours and need a display screen to show them their speed and altitude quickly.
To see a quick video review of SKYRC GSM-015, take a look at Run That RC’s YouTube video. Throughout this video, he will show you what the device looks like, what it comes with, and how it works.
Buying Options
I will now go over the Dynamite Passport GPS Speed Meter 2.0.
3. Dynamite GPS Speed Meter 2.0
If you are looking for a device that can track your RC car’s speed, location, and altitude, the Dynamite GPS Speed Meter 2.0 is a great fit. This product is lightweight, easy to take on the go, simple to use, and very durable.
Tracking: GPS.
What you can measure: Speed, altitude, and location.
Battery Type & Battery life: A built-in high-capacity LiPo battery that lasts for 4 hours.
Display: Display screen that is shown in black and gray. This is where you can find the speed, altitude, and location reading.
Memory: A built-in 1M memory.
Mobile App: No mobile app compatibility. However, you can use Dynamite GPS Logger software to map your drive.
Why I chose it:
I chose the Dynamite Passport GPS Speed Meter 2.0 because it is very simple to use and gets the basic duties done. Another feature that I really like about this device is its durability; it is a very tough device.
If you would like to see a short video on the Dynamite GPS, watch caRCdriver’s YouTube video. He provides a brief explanation as well as shows you what the device entails. This video will give you a good look at this device to help you decide if it is what you are looking for.
Buying Options
The last product on this list is still an outstanding choice.
4. Powerhobby GNSS Performance Analyzer
The Powerhobby GNSS Performance Analyzer is an all-around perfect gadget that is ready to track your speed, give you complete accuracy, and provide feedback when necessary. This device is small and compact, making it easy to take on the go with you.
Tracking: A GNSS engine that is connected to GPS and GLONASS satellite systems.
What you can measure: Speed, performance, acceleration, g-force, distance, time, vertical velocity, and height.
Battery Type & Battery life: A built-in LiPo battery that will last you a few hours.
Display: No display screen.
Memory: A built-in 1M memory.
Mobile App: Power GNSS, which can be found on iOS and Android.
Why I chose it:
I chose the Powerhobby GNSS Performance Analyzer because it is a terrific device when it comes to measuring speed, performance, acceleration, distance, time, height, and velocity. There is not much that this device does not offer. You will have access to everything you need on a mobile app and the accuracy is superb.
For a video review on the Powerhobby GNSS Performance Analyzer, check out Soul Rebel RC’s YouTube video. In this video, he shows you the device, tells you about his experience with it, and reveals if he recommends it. Another great thing about this video is that he will show you how to use the powerhobby app, which is helpful before you begin using this GPS.
Buying Options
If you are also into geocaching, I have written another article on best GPS for geocaching. In this article, you will find a lot of helpful information to assist you with purchasing the best device. I also suggest taking a look at the article if you are simply interested in getting involved in a very fun activity.
Other Must-Haves
Pay attention to devices that have proven to work well with GPS devices reviewed above:
ARRMA Dboots Hoons 42/100 2.9 Belted RC Tires
These multi-surface, all-road tires are for RC cars. They will help give your RC car strength for on-road and off-road extreme driving. Each tire offers wonderful support and excellent balance. The grip is also a key feature of these tires.
Energizer 9V Premium Alkaline Batteries
These batteries are a necessity when it comes to RC speed racing. They are designed to last a long time and have the ability to be stored or used right away.
Zeee Lipo Safe Fireproof Explosionproof Bag
This is the perfect bag to store your device. It is 100 percent fireproof and is a great place to store almost anything. Batteries and charging equipment are commonly stored in this bag, and it can be taken on the go with no extra hassles. The measurements are 21.5 x 14.5 x 16.5 cm.
If you are a person who enjoys being adventurous or going on hikes in the outdoors, a wrist compass may benefit you. If you would like to read more about the best wrist compasses, head over to my other article by clicking here. It will tell you all you need to know about these neat gadgets.
Conclusion
I hope this article helped you find the best GPS for RC speed runs. As you can see, there are a lot of devices out there, but I am confident that my list is one of the most in-depth and accurate when it comes to what RC speed runs need. I encourage you to do as much research as possible on the products that I mentioned, and I believe you will find the perfect one for you. Good luck!
