Flysky Paladin PL18 Ultra model remote control in-depth review: defining a new standard for high-end remote control

Autor des Artikels: ChenDannyi
Artikel veröffentlicht unter: 30. Jun 2025
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Flysky Paladin PL18 Ultra model remote control in-depth review: defining a new standard for high-end remote control

Today, I want to share some insights about the Flysky Paladin PL18 Ultra remote control. This is an upgraded version of the AFDHS3 generation, built on the PL18. It not only retains many of the PL18's cool features, such as the metal panel and digital Hall Gimbal, but also addresses many ergonomic issues. I plan to share my experiences with you all.

View PL18 Ultra Product Details

1. Unboxing experience: EPP outer box and rich accessories

When I got the PL18 Ultra package, my first impression was that its packaging design is simple and grand. The front of the package has a striking picture of the product and the model name, so that people can immediately confirm that this is the high-end remote control I have been longing for.

Open the EPP outer box, and the internal design layout is reasonable. The EPP outer box separates and fixes the main body of the remote control and accessories tightly to avoid bumps during transportation.
However, the EPP outer case is somewhat bulky, with accessories taking up a lot of space, which can lead to wasted space and increased weight during subsequent use. Additionally, removing the remote control is cumbersome; it would be more convenient if there were appropriate holes for easy removal, similar to the Carrying case Soarsky designed specifically for Noble series remote controls.
The random accessories are quite extensive, including the FTr8B receiver, a quick operation guide, the FS-XC101 BVD voltage detection cable, the FS-XC201 Type-C data cable, the FWC03 wireless charger, the FS-YGT01 new joystick head, orange and black long and short handle button switch handles with rubber sleeves, a black aluminum alloy button switch fixing cap, the FS-HSJ01 hand grip, screen protector film, the SWE two-position switch, the SWG two-position switch, a metric hex socket wrench, as well as the center of gravity adjustment piece for the lifting ring and the assembly seat spring. These comprehensive accessories greatly enhance user convenience, meeting both daily needs and personalized modification requirements.

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2. PL18 Ultra Appearance and Handling

The PL18 Ultra exudes a strong metallic feel, with its main body primarily in a subdued and stable black, highlighting a high-end quality. Both the panel and the gimbal are made of bright gray metal, with the edges finished with a high-gloss treatment to prevent the overall tone from appearing too dark. The remote control is designed based on ergonomic principles, featuring a smooth and fine surface that provides an excellent grip experience.
The PL18 Ultra handle design supports 4 gear switching, making it easier to place the remote control.
The ergonomic design of the PL18 Ultra is amazing. It fits my hand perfectly! I can hold the remote and easily operate every small switch. In my opinion, Flysky has made these details so that the whole experience is wonderful.
(1) The edges of the switches on both sides are designed with curves to make the fingers fit the switches better;
(2) The spacing between the two switches is larger, and the arrangement is misaligned;

(3) The rubber protrusion on the back of the hand can be firmly grasped by the remote control.

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3.The use experience of software functions

The PL18 Ultra supports 18-channel communication, providing ample channel resources for complex model operations. Whether it's multi-wing models, helicopters, multi-rotor aircraft, or car and boat models with various actions and functions, the PL18 Ultra can handle them all with ease. For instance, a high-end model equipped with multiple servos and various lighting effects can be controlled by the PL18 Ultra to manage the movement of each servo, the on/off state of lights, and brightness adjustments. It also supports up to 50 groups of model storage and management, offering a significant advantage for model enthusiasts. Users can store different models in the remote control, and switching between models is simple with just a few steps, eliminating the need for complex setup processes and greatly enhancing efficiency.

In terms of functional layout, the PL18 Ultra offers a comprehensive range of features, from basic flight control to advanced programming and mixed control. For model aircraft, it provides precise control over key components like the ailerons, elevator, throttle, and rudder, as well as personalized settings for advanced features such as flaps, spoilers, and air brakes. For model helicopters, it features mixed control of the tilt disk, throttle, and pitch curve, meeting the operational needs at various stages of flight.
It is particularly worth noting that the PL18 Ultra offers extremely powerful customization capabilities. Users can customize the allocation of controls such as switches, knobs, and joysticks based on their operational habits and model features, and even create personalized function combinations. For example, by using the logic switch feature, users can combine multiple physical switches into a logical switch to achieve complex operational logic, such as controlling the model's lighting and sound effects simultaneously, or triggering specific action sequences under certain conditions.

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4.Operation interface and function layout: intuitive and efficient operation experience

The PL18 Ultra has an IPS touch color screen with a resolution of 320 x 480, which provides a clear and delicate display with bright colors. Whether indoors or outdoors in strong light, users can easily read all kinds of information on the screen, such as model status, sensor data, channel Settings, etc.


The remote control's interface is designed with a simple and intuitive visual layout. The main screen primarily displays information related to the model, such as sensor data and function status, and provides quick access to these functions. Users can quickly navigate to the relevant settings by tapping icons or swiping the screen, ensuring clear operation logic and ease of use.

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5. Scalability and compatibility: adapt to a variety of model requirements

The PL18 Ultra excels in scalability, supporting an external RM303 high-frequency head to accommodate a variety of communication protocols. This feature enables the remote control to pair with receivers from different brands, significantly enhancing its versatility and flexibility. For instance, for third-party receivers using PPM, CRSF, or CRSF2 protocols, the PL18 Ultra can easily achieve compatibility through an external high-frequency head, meeting users' diverse needs across various scenarios.


6.Battery and battery life: lasting power guarantee

The PL18 Ultra uses a built-in lithium battery with 1S(3.6V) *8700mAh, which provides long battery life and can meet the needs of long-duration flights. In practical use, even in high-frequency scenarios, such as continuous control of models for high-intensity flight training, the battery can provide stable power support, ensuring the successful completion of flight missions.
The charging method is also very convenient, supporting both wired (USB Type-C) and wireless charging. When using wired charging, the PL18 Ultra supports up to 18W fast charging, while wireless charging can reach up to 12W fast charging, which quickly restores power and reduces user wait time. Additionally, the remote control features a low battery level alarm. When the battery level drops below the safety threshold, it will alert users through a pop-up on the screen and voice prompts, ensuring timely recharging and effectively preventing the risk of the model losing control due to insufficient power.

View PL18 Ultra Product Details

 

7.Actual flight test: precise control and excellent performance

In actual flight tests, the PL18 Ultra demonstrated outstanding handling performance. For example, in the take-off phase, the throttle responds quickly and linearly, and the model can smoothly gain power when the control stick is pushed, ensuring a smooth and natural take-off. During flight, the control of the ailerons, elevator, and rudder is precise and delicate, maintaining a stable flight attitude. Even in strong wind conditions, the model can maintain a stable flight state thanks to its robust signal transmission and interference resistance capabilities.

When performing high-difficulty flight maneuvers such as sharp turns, rolls, and hover, the dual-rate setting and programmed mixed control of the PL18 Ultra play a crucial role. Through precise parameter adjustments, the model can execute complex flight actions with precision, ensuring smooth and seamless movements without any lag or delay. Additionally, the built-in sensors monitor flight data in real-time and provide intuitive feedback to the user via the remote control screen, ensuring flight safety.

For multi-rotor aircraft, the throttle curve and servos speed function settings of the PL18 Ultra enable the aircraft to achieve optimal flight performance in various modes. For instance, when the throttle curve ratio is set lower, the aircraft can hover smoothly and move slowly; when the throttle curve ratio is increased, the aircraft's acceleration performance significantly improves, allowing for rapid response to user commands, enabling high-speed flight and agile maneuvering.


8. Summary and Outlook: Redefining the Standards of High-End Remote Control. 

The Flysky Paladin PL18 Ultra model remote control stands at the forefront of the model remote control industry, thanks to its AFHDS 3 protocol, 18-channel communication, robust customization capabilities, intuitive and efficient user interface, and outstanding expandability and compatibility. Whether you are a professional model athlete, an experienced enthusiast, or a newcomer to the model world, the PL18 Ultra offers exceptional control experience and flying enjoyment.

Of course, no product is perfect. The relatively high price of the PL18 Ultra might deter users with limited budgets. Moreover, due to its complex features, new users of such high-end remote controls may need some time to get familiar with and master the various settings and operations. However, considering its overall performance, reliability, and user experience, the value of the PL18 Ultra far outweighs these minor drawbacks.

Overall, the PL18 Ultra is more than just a remote control; it is the culmination of F's years of expertise and innovation in model remote control technology. It redefines the standards of high-end model remote controls, ushering in a new era of flight for model enthusiasts. If you are looking for a remote control that meets your needs for flight accuracy, model control flexibility, and intelligent function expansion, the Fus Paladin PL18 Ultra is definitely worth considering.

View PL18 Ultra Product Details
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Scott

So 1S battery voltage… most external modules are 7V required… So… if you want to use an external ELRS module you have to use an external pack? Or is the internal battery able to be swapped to 2S?

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