RadioMaster has released a promotional video and pre-order page for their upcoming compact 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.
Going by the information we have on the sales page and video, the ZORRO will support both OpenTX and EdgeTX operating systems and will be 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.
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 ZORRO will be powered by two 18350 batteries that will 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 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.
Watch the promotional video…
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 | 128x64 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 |
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 anothor gamepad style radio entering the market for pilots who prefer smaller ergonomical controllers, but don’t want to use the Tango 2 for whatever reason – It remains to be seen if this radio can match the Tango 2 in quailty and function, but if it lives up to the standards of RadioMaster’s previous radios, it’s got a good chance.
Price and availablity
The RadioMaster Zorro won’t be released until the end of January 2022, but it is available to pre-order on RadioMaster’s website.
The CC2500 version will cost $79.99 while the 4in1 and the ELRS versions will each cost $99.99.
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