The Best 5 Racing Frames 2017

This article was updated on Janurary 1st 2017.

Drone racing is the new form of aerial combat, and its big. I’m going to tell you what the best 5 racing frames are in this voltage-driven phenomenon.

Disclaimer: This is a list of my favourite racing frames. The drone community is riddled with different opinions of what is and isn’t the best flying equipment. In this way, many people will disagree with some of the frames that I have placed on this list – so please read this with an open mind and understand that these are my favourite racing frames but others may have different viewpoints.

1. Shrike

When looking to buy a racing frame, you need to find something which is fast, light and nimble. The xLabs Shrike ticks all of these boxes since it weighs less than half a kilo. This means that the frame has a rapid acceleration and is ridiculously responsive when turning. The Shrike is also really tough and despite crashing it a countless number of times, the arms have never broken. I also think that the integrated PDB is a nice feature since it removes clutter from the frame itself. This is my go-to racing frame and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone! The only downside is that the build is a little tight and therefore you will have to get creative when trying to fit everything onto the frame. For instance, I’ve found that mounting a full-size GoPro is simply not possible (without drilling and zip tying it to the front of the quad) and thus this may put some people off from buying the frame.

2. ShenDrones Krieger

If you’ve ever wanted a miniature rocket that fits in your pocket, then buy the ShenDrones Krieger. You will only fully understand the power that this little machine can produce when you actually fly it. There are two different models. The DTF200 model spins 5″ props while the DTF225 spins 5″ or 6″ props. I own the DTF200 model. Its light weight (84g) coupled with its design (a minimal frontal area where all the weight is in the center of the frame,) means it has far less drag that a typical H frame. (Checkout ShenDrones’s {hilarious} website for the maths behind this.) Unlike other racing frames, I was able to strap a GoPro onto the Krieger with ease (although I would recommend a lighter FPV camera to minimise weight.) It has a thick 4mm carbon fiber base plate whilst the top is made out of a mix between 1.6mm and 2mm carbon fiber. I’ve crashed my frame more times than I would like to admit but I’m yet to see any cracks or snaps. It doesn’t take long to realise that the ShenDrones Krieger is built for speed – I found that it accelerates ridiculously quickly and it is sharp and responsive on its turns. This is generally an excellent frame.

3. MRM Switchblade 220

The MultiRotorMania Switchblade is a 220mm X style racing frame. The first thing you’ll notice about this frame is that the 4mm 1-piece carbon fiber base plate is really tough. I’m pretty sure an elephant could stand on this thing and it would still remain in tact. It is capable or running 6″ props and I’ve found that it handles really well – it turns like a dime when flying! MRM let you buy a 3D cover for the frame to protect all the electrical parts which is useful, however I found that there was a lack of space on the board itself and I spent an extra hour or two trying to figure out how to compact the PDB etc between the top plate and the bottom plate. However, once you figure it out, this thing flies like a dream.