Stick time, the most important thing!!! Get on any simulator and get in some practice. Even the most experienced pilots fly simulators!
In the rapidly growing world of first-person view (FPV) drone flying, simulators have become an indispensable tool for pilots to hone their skills, practice racing, or experiment with freestyle tricks without the risk of crashing a physical drone. This article compares four notable FPV simulators: Liftoff, VelociDrone, DRL (Drone Racing League) Simulator, and the upcoming Myoka.
1. Liftoff
Overview: Developed by LuGus Studios, Liftoff is one of the most popular FPV simulators, aimed at both beginners and seasoned pilots. It’s particularly known for its visually appealing environments and intuitive interface.
- Strengths:
- Wide selection of customizable drones and components.
- Gorgeous graphics and immersive environments.
- Active community and regular updates.
- Integration with Steam Workshop allows users to create and share content.
- Weaknesses:
- Physics can feel slightly “floaty” compared to real-life drone behavior.
- Requires a powerful PC for optimal performance.
- Best For: Beginners and casual pilots who value aesthetics and a comprehensive learning experience.
2. VelociDrone
Overview: VelociDrone is widely regarded as the go-to simulator for pilots looking for precision. It’s particularly popular among competitive racers.
- Strengths:
- Realistic physics and responsive controls.
- Extensive track options, including community-created ones.
- Optimized performance even on less powerful PCs.
- Strong emphasis on racing with dedicated leaderboards and tournaments.
- Weaknesses:
- Graphics are functional but not as visually detailed as Liftoff.
- User interface feels dated.
- Best For: Competitive pilots and racers who prioritize realism over visuals.
3. DRL Simulator
Overview: The DRL Simulator, developed by the Drone Racing League, is both a training tool and a gateway for aspiring pilots to join the league.
- Strengths:
- Closely tied to the DRL ecosystem, offering a path to professional racing.
- High-quality graphics and diverse environments inspired by DRL tracks.
- Accessible price point.
- Weaknesses:
- Physics, while decent, may not appeal to those seeking ultra-realistic flight dynamics.
- Limited customization compared to Liftoff and VelociDrone.
- Best For: Pilots aiming to transition to competitive DRL racing or those seeking a structured progression system.
4. Myoka (Upcoming)
Overview: Myoka is an ambitious new entrant in the FPV simulator market, aiming to combine the best features of existing simulators while introducing innovative elements.
- What We Know So Far:
- Promises cutting-edge physics that adapt to various flight styles (freestyle, racing, cinematic).
- Focus on accessibility with beginner-friendly tutorials and adaptive difficulty settings.
- Modular maps with dynamic weather and time-of-day systems.
- Real maps imported from google.
- Potential Challenges:
- As a new simulator, it will need to build a user base and community from scratch.
- The balance between realism and accessibility remains to be seen.
- Anticipated Audience: A mix of beginners, hobbyists, and pilots eager to explore a fresh take on FPV simulation.
Which simulator is the best in 2025?
Each of these FPV simulators offers a unique experience tailored to different needs:
- Choose Liftoff for a visually stunning simulator with a very large multiplayer community that continues to bring new maps and more into the game.
- Opt for VelociDrone if precise physics and competitive racing are your priorities.
- Select the DRL Simulator to enter the structured world of professional racing.
- Keep an eye on Myoka if you’re looking for innovation and a fresh perspective.
The ideal simulator ultimately depends on your goals, whether that’s casual flying, competitive racing, or exploring new horizons in FPV. With Myoka on the horizon, the FPV simulation landscape is set to become even more exciting.
It is highly recommended to use an RC transmitter rather then a gamepad. You will get much better control resolution.