So you’ve caught the FPV (First-Person View) bug, and you’re itching to take to the skies—but before you crash a few hundred dollars into a tree, there’s a smarter way to train: FPV simulators.
These virtual platforms are the perfect training ground for new pilots and seasoned racers alike. Whether you’re prepping for freestyle, racing, or cinematic flying, an FPV simulator lets you sharpen your skills without risking your gear.
Here’s a breakdown of the best FPV simulators available right now, from beginner-friendly options to pro-level training tools.
1. Liftoff: FPV Drone Racing
🎮 Platform: PC / Mac
💸 Price: ~$20 (Steam)
🕹️ Controller Support: Almost all popular radio transmitters
Liftoff is one of the most popular and polished simulators on the market. Designed for both freestyle flyers and racers, it features realistic physics, customizable drones, and community-created tracks.
Why it’s awesome:
- Large online community
- Tons of customizable parts and frames
- Frequent updates and mods
- Career mode + online racing
Best for: Intermediate to advanced pilots, drone racers
2. VelociDrone
🎮 Platform: PC
💸 Price: ~$20
🕹️ Controller Support: Wide compatibility
VelociDrone is loved by competitive FPV racers. The physics engine is highly praised for being close to the real thing, and it’s often used by pilots training for the DRL and MultiGP circuits.
Why it’s awesome:
- Ultra-realistic physics
- Customizable race tracks
- Online tournaments
- DVR mode for reviewing your flights
Best for: Racer training, competitive pilots
3. DRL Simulator (Drone Racing League)
🎮 Platform: PC / Xbox
💸 Price: Free demo; ~$10 full version
🕹️ Controller Support: Broad compatibility
Made by the pros behind the Drone Racing League, this sim blends game and training tool. The DRL Simulator is the only sim that can get you recruited into a real-world drone racing league.
Why it’s awesome:
- High production value
- Learn & Fly missions
- Real DRL maps and environments
- Path to DRL pilot program
Best for: Aspiring pro racers, gamers
4. FPV.Freerider
🎮 Platform: PC / Mac / Android / iOS
💸 Price: ~$5 (demo available)
🕹️ Controller Support: Basic USB radios, Xbox controllers
This is a budget-friendly beginner sim with solid flight physics. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of others, but it’s great for practicing throttle control and orientation.
Why it’s awesome:
- Affordable
- Simple interface
- Mobile version for practice on the go
Best for: Beginners, casual flyers
5. Uncrashed: FPV Drone Simulator
🎮 Platform: PC
💸 Price: ~$15 (Steam)
🕹️ Controller Support: Supported radios and gamepads
Uncrashed offers cinematic environments and smooth graphics that appeal to freestyle pilots and content creators. It’s great for practicing dives, gaps, and flowy freestyle lines.
Why it’s awesome:
- Beautiful environments
- Cinematic freestyle vibes
- Easy to jump into
Best for: Freestyle pilots, content creators
Honorable Mention: TRYP FPV Simulator
One of the newer kids on the block, TRYP FPV is visually stunning and offers unique modes like drone cinematography. Keep an eye on this one as it evolves.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Use Case | Best Simulator |
| Absolute Beginner | FPV.Freerider or DRL Sim |
| Racer Training | VelociDrone or DRL Sim |
| Freestyle Practice | Liftoff or Uncrashed |
| Cinematic Flying | TRYP FPV or Uncrashed |
| Tight Budget | FPV.Freerider (demo) |
💡 Pro Tip: Get a transmitter like the RadioMaster TX16S, TBS Tango 2, or FrSky X-Lite, which works both with your sim and your real drone.
Before you ever arm a quad IRL, logging a few dozen hours in a simulator will give you the muscle memory and confidence to fly like a pro—without the crash bill.
