The New Avatar HD V2 & Avatar HD Pro Kit: Specs & Features

If you are looking for a digital FPV system that offers high-quality video transmission, low latency, and onboard recording, you might want to check out the new Avatar HD V2 and Avatar HD Pro kits from Walksnail and Caddx. These kits are the second generation of the Avatar HD digital FPV system, which was launched in 2022 and received positive feedback from many FPV pilots. The new kits feature a host of upgrades and improvements over the previous version, such as:

• Larger internal storage: The VTX module now comes with 8GB or 32GB options, allowing you to record more footage than ever before.
• Gyroflow support: The 32GB version of the VTX module has a built-in gyro sensor that enables image stabilization for the recorded video using Gyroflow software.
• Grounded heatsink: The VTX module has a redesigned heatsink that reduces interference and improves GPS lock speed.
• Solder pads: You can now solder the VTX module directly to your flight controller instead of using a JST connector.
• 20x20mm mounting: The VTX module has additional mounting holes that make it compatible with more FPV drone frames.
• User-friendly improvements: The VTX module has an easier-to-access bind button, M2 screws and nuts for the camera ribbon cable and antenna connector, and a smaller USB cable connector.
• Two new cameras: The kits come with two new 4:3 cameras, the Avatar V2 camera and the Avatar Pro camera. The Avatar V2 camera offers ultra-low latency of 120fps, while the Avatar Pro camera has excellent low-light performance and is ideal for night flights.

In this article, we will take a closer look at these new features and how they compare to the previous version of the Avatar HD system. We will also provide some specifications and testing results of the new kits, as well as some tips and suggestions for using them effectively. Whether you are a beginner or an FPV veteran, you’re bound to find something to pique your interest with the new Avatar HD V2 and Avatar HD Pro kits from Walksnail and Caddx. Read on to find out more!

Upgraded VTX Module Features

The Avatar HD VTX Module V2 is the heart of the Avatar HD system, and it has received a major overhaul in the new kits. Here are some of the new features and improvements that make the VTX module more powerful and user-friendly than ever before.

Larger Internal Storage

One of the most noticeable upgrades is the increased internal storage capacity of the VTX module. The previous version had only 8GB of storage, which could only record about 20 minutes of 1080p footage. This was quite limiting for many FPV pilots who wanted to capture more of their flights.

The new version offers two options: 8GB or 32GB. The 32GB option can store up to four times more footage than the 8GB option, which means you can record up to 80 minutes of 1080p footage. This is a huge improvement for those who want to record longer flights or higher resolution videos.

Gyroflow Support

Another exciting feature of the new VTX module is the support for Gyroflow, a software tool that provides image stabilization for FPV videos. Gyroflow uses the gyro data from the VTX module to smooth out the video and remove unwanted shakes and jitters. However, this feature is only available for the 32GB version of the VTX module, as it has a built-in gyro sensor. The 8GB version does not have a gyro sensor, so it cannot use Gyroflow.

To use Gyroflow, you need to load both the video file and the gyro data file into the software. The gyro data is recorded along with the video and saved in a .gcsv file. You can then adjust the settings and apply stabilization to your video. Currently, there are no lens profile presets for the new Avatar cameras in Gyroflow, so you may need to create your own.

Grounded Heatsink

The VTX module also has a redesigned heatsink that improves its durability and performance. The heatsink is now properly grounded to reduce interference and make GPS lock faster. This is especially useful for long-range FPV pilots who rely on GPS for navigation and safety.

The updated PCB design and heatsink also make the VTX module more robust and resistant to damage. The thickness of the V2 VTX module is about the same as the V1, but the threaded 20x20mm mounting holes protrude out of the heatsink.

20x20mm Mounting

The new VTX module also offers more convenient and flexible installation options and greater compatibility with a wider range of FPV drone frames. Apart from the original 25mm x 25mm mounting holes, the kit now includes 20mm x 20mm holes.

This means you can mount your VTX module on either a 25mm x 25mm or a 20mm x 20mm stack, depending on your preference and frame size. You can also use spacers or standoffs to adjust the height of your VTX module if needed.

Solder Pads

Apart from the JST connector, you now have the option to solder the VTX module directly to your flight controller with the solder pads. This can make your wiring cleaner and simpler, as well as reduce weight and potential failure points.

The solder pads are labeled on the back of the VTX module, and they include power, ground, RX, TX, LED, and buzzer. You can use these pads to connect your VTX module to your flight controller and control it via Betaflight OSD or LUA script.

User-friendly Improvements

Additionally, the new design has optimized some aspects of the VTX module that make it easier to use and maintain. For example:

• The bind button is now located on top of the VTX module, making it easier to access and press.
• The camera ribbon cable and antenna connector are now secured with M2 screws and nuts instead of tiny screws that were easy to lose or strip.
• The USB cable connector is now smaller and more compact, making it less likely to get damaged or interfere with other components.

Avatar HD VTX Module V2 Specifications

Feature	Avatar V2 VTX
Communication Frequency	5.725-5.850GHz
Transmitter Power (EIRP)	FCC:<30dBm;CE:<14dBm;SRRC:<20dBm;MIC:<25dBm
I/O Interface	JST1.04 (Power in) JST0.86 (USB)
Mounting Holes	25.5*25.5mm; 20*20mm
Dimensions	33*33*10.5mm
Storage	8G/32G
Recording	1080p/60fps, 720p/100fps/60fps
Weight	17.6g
Operating Temperature	-20-40℃
Channels	8
Wide Power Input	6V-25.2V（2S-6S）
Supported FC System	Betaflight, Inav, KISS, Fettec, ArduPilot
OSD	Canvas mode
Latency	Average delay 22ms
Antenna	1(IPEX)

New Avatar Cameras

The new kits come with two new cameras that offer different advantages and performance in different light conditions. Both cameras have a 4:3 image sensor instead of 16:9 as in the previous version.

Avatar V2 HD Camera

The Avatar V2 camera is designed for ultra-low latency and high frame rate performance. It has a 1/3.2-inch 4MP 4:3 native sensor that can support up to 1080p@120fps video transmission. The camera has a 2.1mm lens with a 160-degree field of view and an F2.0 aperture. The camera also supports 16:9 aspect ratio mode, but it will crop the image from the top and bottom.

The Avatar V2 camera is ideal for FPV racing and freestyle, as it offers a smooth and responsive video feed with minimal lag. The camera also has good image quality and color reproduction in daylight conditions. However, the camera may struggle in low-light situations, as it has a rolling shutter effect and a high minimum illumination of 0.1Lux.

Avatar HD Pro Camera

The Avatar Pro camera is designed for low-light performance and night vision. It has a 1/1.8-inch Sony Starvis sensor that can support up to 1080p@100fps video transmission. The camera has a 1.66mm lens with a 180-degree field of view and an F1.6 aperture. The camera also supports Gyroflow stabilization, which can smooth out the video and remove jitters.

The Avatar Pro camera is ideal for night flights, as it has excellent low-light sensitivity and can capture clear images even in near-darkness. The camera has a minimum illumination of 0.0001Lux, which means it can see in almost complete darkness. The camera also has good image quality and color reproduction in daytime conditions, but it may have some fisheye distortion due to the wide-angle lens.

Avatar HD V2 and Avatar HD Pro Camera Specifications

Here are some specifications of the new kits, based on the information from Caddx’s website:

Feature	Avatar V2 Camera	Avatar Polar Pro Camera
Image Sensor	1/3.2-Inch 4Mp 4:3 native sensor	1/1.8-Inch Sony Starvis sensor
Resolution	1080P/120fps, 1080P/100fps,	1080P/60fps, 720P/120fps,
	1080P/60fps, 720P/120fps,	720P/60fps
	720P/60fps
Ratio	4:3 native / 16:9	16:9 / 4:3
Lens	2.1mm	8Mp
FOV	160°	160°
Aperture	F2.0	F1.6
Shutter	Rolling shutter	Rolling shutter
Gyroflow	Optional	Not mentioned
Coaxial cable	140mm	Not mentioned
Min. Illumination	Not mentioned	0.0001Lux
Dimensions	19*19*22mm	19*19*24mm
Weight	7.2g	9.5g

Summary

The new Avatar HD V2 and Avatar HD Pro kits from Walksnail and Caddx are a significant upgrade over the previous version of the Avatar HD system. They offer a range of new features and improvements that make them more powerful, user-friendly, and versatile than ever before.

The upgraded VTX module features larger internal storage, Gyroflow support, grounded heatsink, less interference to GPS, solder pads, 20x20mm mounting, and user-friendly improvements. The two new cameras offer different advantages and performance in different light conditions. The Avatar V2 camera is designed for ultra-low latency and high frame rate performance, while the Avatar Pro camera is designed for low-light performance and night vision.

In my opinion, these new kits are a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy digital FPV with high-quality video transmission, low latency, and onboard recording. They are compatible with most FPV drone frames and flight controller firmware, and they are easy to install and use. They also have a reasonable price compared to other digital FPV systems on the market.

Where To Buy?

You can buy these new kits from various online retailers, such as Caddx, GetFPV, RDQ, AliExpress, or Amazon. The price varies depending on the retailer and the kit option, but it ranges from around $150 to $200. You can also buy additional accessories, such as antennas or cables, separately.

Buying Links:

Walksnail Avatar HD Kit V2

Avatar HD Pro Kit

Walksnail Avatar HD VTX V2

Some tips or suggestions for using these new kits effectively are:

• Make sure you have a compatible receiver module and goggles for your VTX module. You can use the original Walksnail Avatar VRX module and HD goggles, or any other receiver module that supports 5.8GHz analog video signal.
• Choose the right camera for your flying style and environment. The Avatar V2 camera is better for FPV racing and freestyle in daylight conditions, while the Avatar Pro camera is better for night flights or low-light situations.
• Adjust the settings of your VTX module and camera according to your preferences and needs. You can use Betaflight OSD or LUA script to change the output power, channel, frequency, aspect ratio, recording resolution, frame rate, latency mode, etc. You can also use the USB cable to connect your VTX module to your computer and use Caddx’s software to update the firmware or change the settings.
• Use Gyroflow to stabilize your recorded video if you have the 32GB version of the VTX module. You will need to load both the video file and the gyro data file into Gyroflow and create your own lens profile for the camera you are using. You can then adjust the settings and apply stabilization to your video.

What are your thoughts on the new Avatar HD V2 and Avatar HD Pro kits from Walksnail and Caddx? Let us know in the comments.