RadioMaster ZORRO: Finally A Full-Feature Radio With Internal ExpressLRS

Update: RadioMaster has released an updated version of the Zorro radio, the Zorro Max with various design, performance, functionality, and compatibility improvements.

RadioMaster has released a gamepad-style controller, the RadioMaster ZORRO and it looks as though ExpressLRS users will be happy because there is finally a full-feature radio with ELRS built-in.

The RadioMaster ZORRO supports both OpenTX and EdgeTX operating systems and is available in four RF configurations – CC2500, SX1280 (ELRS), 4-in-1 and CCS2500+TBS (Masterfire Combo). RadioMaster also says that the radio is ergonomically designed for comfort.

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Physically, the controller has a 128×64 monochrome LCD display with adjustable brightness, a metal roller, adjustable HALL gimbals, replaceable and/or upgradable rubber “non-slip” grips, and the ability to change between Mode 2 and Mode 1 without disassembling. It also features audio output, an SD-card slot, a DSC port and a USB-C port.

The RadioMaster ZORRO is powered by two 18350 batteries that fit in two separate compartments underneath the grips and supports an external 2S battery supply that can be fixed directly underneath the controller to be used as a reserve battery pack. The batteries are not included with the controller and will need to be purchased separately.

The antenna is foldable for the sake of keeping the radio compact and transportable when not in use. Accessories can be mounted on both sides as well as on top of the radio via the use of mounting screw holes.

RadioMaster ZORRO specs:

Version	Zorro CC2500	Zorro 4in1	Zorro ELRS	Zorro ELRS Starter Set	Zorro CC2500 + TBS Nano Crossfire Combo
Dimensions			170 x 159 x 108 mm
Weight			350 grams
Operating Frequency			2.400GHz – 2.480GHz
Internal RF Options	CC2500 Multiprotocol	4in1 Multiprotocol	ELRS	ELRS	CC2500 Multiprotocol
Supported Protocols	Module Dependent	Module Dependent	ELRS	ELRS	Module Dependent
RF Power	CC2500: 20dBm max	4in1: 20dBm max	TBA (CE and FCC version will be available)	TBA (CE and FCC version will be available)	CC2500: 20dBm max
Antenna Gain			Folding 2db
Operational Current			160mA@8.4V
Operational Voltage			6.6-8.4v DC
Control Distance/strong>	>2km @ 20dbm	>2km @ 20dbm	TBA	TBA	>2km @ 20dbm
Operating System			OpenTX / EdgeTX compatible
Control Channels			Maximum 16 (Rx dependent)
Display			128×64 monochrome LCD
Battery			2 x 18350 (Not included)
Charging			Built in USB-C charging
Gimbal			Hall effect
Module Bay			Nano size (compatible with TBS Nano Crossfire / Nano Tracer / IRC Ghost)
Firmware Upgrade Method			Via USB or SD card (SD card not included)
Starter Set Includes	–	–	–	-Zorro ELRS Radio Control -2x EP1 Full Range 2.5ghs ELRS Receivers with T Antenna -1x EP2 Compact 2.4ghz Receiver with Built in Antenna	– Zorro ELRS Radio Control -TBS Nano Crossfire Module

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The RadioMaster ZORRO won’t be the first radio with ExpressLRS built in – the BetaFPV LiteRadio 2 ELRS edition has that title – but it will be the first full-feature radio to make use of the increasingly popular open-source radio control link.

It’s also nice to see another gamepad style radio entering the market for pilots who prefer smaller ergonomic controllers, but don’t want to use the Tango 2 for whatever reason.

June 5th 2022 update: This controller has now been out for a few months. I have one myself (ELRS edition) and it is a very good controller, although I won’t write a full review as there are plenty out there already…But, the feedback and reviews from other users have been generally positive too.

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