Jumper is just not taking a break! Shortly after the discharge of the T20S, they’ve launched the T14, a radio that bears a putting resemblance to the Radiomaster Boxer and TBS Mambo however stands out with its distinctive options. On this evaluate, I’ll go over these options and evaluate the T14 to the Boxer and T20S, serving to you resolve which radio it is best to get.
New to FPV? You’ll be able to be taught extra about FPV drone radio transmitters on this purchaser’s information: https://oscarliang.com/radio-transmitter/
The place To Purchase?
Get your Jumper T14 radio from these distributors:
Gimbal Choices
The Jumper T14 is out there in two variations: one with Corridor gimbals at $89.99, and a pricier one at $109.99 that includes RDC90 gimbals—present in high-end radios just like the Futaba T18MZ. Some argue that RDC90 gimbals present extra linear outputs than their Corridor counterparts, however in my expertise, I didn’t discover a major distinction in smoothness or management really feel.
In case you’re a type of individuals who consider in “costlier is at all times higher” then by all means get the RDC90. Nonetheless, I believe the Corridor gimbals are completely superb for most individuals, particularly given their extra reasonably priced price ticket.
Frequency Choices
The Jumper T14 comes outfitted with an ExpressLRS inner module, providing three frequency selections: 2.4GHz, 868MHz, and 915MHz. Personally I desire 2.4GHz — that’s the one I’m specializing in on this evaluate. Why? It provides distinctive vary that fits my wants (as much as tens of kilometers) and comes with notably smaller antennas in comparison with the decrease frequency 900Mhz choices. Study extra in regards to the professionals and cons of those frequencies right here: https://oscarliang.com/expresslrs/#24GHz-vs-900MHz
Equipment
Within the field, you will discover the next equipment:
- Neck strap
- Fast begin person handbook
- USB-C cable
- Spare springs for gimbals
- Two change replacements
Just like the Boxer, it comes with a carry case. Nonetheless, it lacks a devoted gimbal/change protector, as a substitute offering two easy foam rolls to guard the sticks.
Specs and Options
- MCU: STM32F407ZET6
- Display screen: OLED Show
- Display screen dimension: 2.42″ (decision 128*64)
- Rocker Stick Dimension: Commonplace
- Gimbals: Corridor sensor or RDC90
- Constructed-in RF: ExpressLRS (915MHz or 2.4GHz)
- Transmission energy: 1000mW (max 30dBm)
- Exterior module interface: commonplace JR module bay (JR / FrSKY / Crossfire suitable)
- TF card: built-in chip (formally really helpful by EDGETX)
- Working voltage: 6V – 8.4V
- Battery Required: 21700*2 (not included)
- Dimension: 185*175*79mm
- Weight:
471g503g (with out battery)- 593g with 18650
- 637g with 21700
Construct and Design
At first look, the T14 seems to be similar to the Boxer – the housing can be made from plastic with a black matte end, that includes a well-known association of switches and a comparable format. The plastic shell of the T14 feels barely cheaper and extra flimsy, however contemplating the value, that is sensible.
It’s not precisely a direct copy although, there are some substantial variations as I’ll clarify on this evaluate.
Dimension and Weight
Although being comparable in top and thickness, the T14 is considerably wider than the Boxer. Nonetheless, it’s the lighter of the 2 by about 30 grams. Each fashions boast flat bases, permitting them to face upright on a flat floor, which is at all times a plus in my ebook.
Stacked towards the Jumper T20S, the T14’s bigger dimension is clear regardless of having fewer controls. The format subsequently is seems to be much less cramped. Regardless of being considerably larger, the T14 solely weighs 50g extra.
Gimbals
My T14 evaluate unit got here outfitted with RDC90 gimbals. Evaluating these to the Corridor sensor gimbals of the Boxer and TX16S, I discovered no important distinction in management smoothness. The RDC90s do enable for stick journey changes; nevertheless, I discovered the default configuration too slender for me as a pincher and I needed to improve all of it the way in which to the max to really feel exact in my flying. Thumbers would possibly discover smaller stick journey extra to their liking, it’s actually a private choice.
A notable draw back is the gimbal pressure adjustment. In contrast to the Boxer, the place changes are a breeze from the entrance, the T14 requires a bit extra effort, as you want to open up the radio to make modifications.
The stick ends, too, left one thing to be desired. They felt too skinny and lacked adequate grip for my style. A fast swap for third-party stick ends, just like the Radiomaster Sticky360, made a world of distinction. Bear in mind, these gimbals have M3 threads, so be sure you get stick ends which are suitable.
Switches and Controls
On the entrance, there are 4 switches, one 2-position and one 3-position switches on both sides. Two rotatory dials within the center.
Under the dials, you could have the facility button between the 2 gimbals. In contrast to the Boxer, the place the standing LED is constructed into the facility button, Jumper moved the standing LED to the perimeters of the display screen.
The shoulder of the radio options two low-profile, button type switches. The left is a latching change and the best a momentary one, identical to the Boxer. In case you’re not a fan of those button type switches, Jumper has thoughtfully offered stick-style replacements. Nonetheless, each are latching, with no momentary choice.
Be aware that there aren’t any “flight mode” buttons on the T14, which could possibly be a disappointment for some. On the brilliant aspect, it makes a cleaner format by eradicating these buttons. Personally I not often use them so I’m certain it’s not an issue for many individuals.
Display screen, Buttons and Menu
Navigating the T14’s menu is easy, because of a typical button format and scroll wheel in Jumper’s radios. The plastic scroll wheel might really feel low cost in comparison with the Boxer’s metallic one. And the scroll wheel is a bit slippery and straightforward to pick the improper choice.
The place the T14 really shines is its monochrome OLED display screen. It’s a step above the Boxer’s LCD display screen, providing clear visibility in varied lighting circumstances, even direct daylight—no backlight wanted.
Antenna
Whereas not detachable, the onboard, foldable antenna is a one other space that the T14 excels, making it travel-friendly and straightforward to pack. It may be rotated as much as 180 levels for optimum angle. It’s price noting that for optimum efficiency, it’s essential to align your TX antenna together with your RX antenna – making certain a constant, robust sign. You’ll be able to confer with my tutorial on antenna placement for extra insights: https://oscarliang.com/antenna-positioning/
The draw back nevertheless, is that you could’t swap out the antenna for a unique one, e.g. the next acquire antenna. However I doubt many would try this anyway so it’s not likely a deal breaker.
Internally, the antenna is related to the RF module through a UFL connector. Apparently, the antenna’s plastic housing appears outsized for two.4Ghz. I suppose they’re utilizing the identical mould for each 2.4GHz and 900MHz to avoid wasting prices, however they may have clearly made it smaller for two.4GHz.
Connectors and Speaker
On prime, you could have the USB-C port for FPV simulator, knowledge switch and firmware updates. Additionally there’s the coach port (3.5mm audio jack).
The speaker, positioned above the facility button, doesn’t fairly match the Boxer’s audio high quality or quantity, nevertheless it’s a minor setback that doesn’t have an effect on utilization.
Again Deal with and Neck Strap
The T14 contains a foldable plastic again deal with, whereas the Boxer opts for a cloth one. Which one is healthier is determined by your requirement, every has its professionals and cons.
The neck strap hook location is spot on with the battery put in, the radio completely stability on a neck strap.
Ergonomics
Dealing with the T14 feels acquainted in case you’ve used the Boxer, due to their comparable form and weight.
Nonetheless, the anti-slip rubber inserts on the again of the T14 really feel barely cheaper than those within the Boxer, and are much less grippy. They’re adequate, although, particularly when contemplating the T14’s aggressive worth.
Whether or not you’re a thumber, or a hybrid pincher, the T14 has you coated. Holding it feels pure, the gimbals are easy and mushy out of the field with out the necessity for any adjustment, aside from throttle which I needed to loosen a tiny bit extra.
My most important criticism could be the entrance switches, that are positioned barely additional away from the perimeters in comparison with the Boxer. It makes it more durable to succeed in the internal switches – you form of must take your hand off the stick to succeed in it. On the Boxer, these switches are extra accessible.
Exterior Module Help
The T14 has a JR module bay on the again that helps exterior modules, suitable with full dimension modules like Crossfire, different ExpressLRS modules, Ghost, Tracer and so forth.
Battery Choices
The Jumper T14 comes with a battery holder that may match two 18650 or 21700 Li-ion cells. To make use of 18650 on this holder, be sure that to drag the contacts outwards so that they maintain the smaller 18650 cells securely.
Batteries usually are not included, and should be bought individually. Get them right here:
21700 Li-ion cells:
18650 Li-ion cells:
Energy Consumption and Battery Life
Present draw varies relying on the RF energy setting, right here’s the measurements from my testing:
- 0.11A with RF module turned off
- 0.45A at 25mW
- 0.67A at 250mW
- 0.80A at 500mW
- 0.90A at 1W
By default he fan is configured to activate at 10mW, which implies it’s just about at all times operating. This results in increased present draw than different ExpressLRS radios I’ve examined at decrease energy ranges. I’m undecided if that is intentional by Jumper, as most ELRS radios I’ve encountered usually activate cooling fan at 250mW or increased. Anyway I left this settings at default for the remainder of the take a look at.
Utilizing 21700 4500mAh cells, you’ll be able to count on round 8 to 9 hours of run time at 25mW, or roughly 4 hours at 1W. With the 18650 3000mAh cells, this drops to roughly 6 hours at 25mW or about 3 hours at 1W. Be aware: that is solely a tough estimation.
To optimize battery life, you’ll be able to make the most of the Dynamic Energy choice accessible within the ExpressLRS LUA script. With Dynamic Energy, the mW output adapts to the mannequin’s vary, sign power and hyperlink high quality, minimizing energy consumption. This characteristic permits for as little as 10-25mW utilization throughout unobstructed line-of-sight flights.
Battery Charging
You’ll be able to cost the battery through the USB-C port.
Jumper appears to have mounted the gradual charging challenge I raised when reviewing the T20S. The T14’s charging charges now attain as much as 10W, over twice as quick as earlier than. Be aware that you’ll want an influence adapter that help no less than 5V 2A or increased, utilizing a pc’s USB port might end in slower cost instances.
Estimated charging instances are as follows:
- 21700 4500mah batteries: Roughly 4-5 hours
- 18650 3000mah batteries: Just below 3 hours
Nonetheless, there’s a quirk: the radio powers on robotically when plugged in for charging, which looks as if a bug. Hopefully this could get addressed in future firmware updates. For now I simply change to the “Simulator” profile throughout charging, which ensures each inner and exterior RF modules are turned off.
FPV Simulator Help
The Jumper T14 is plug and play with fashionable FPV simulators comparable to Tryp and Liftoff. When related, it’s robotically acknowledged within the simulator. The setup stays the identical as all different mainstream remotes.
Inside RF Module
The T14 options an built-in ExpressLRS module that comes with ELRS 3.3.1 firmware. I’m unable to replace this module but to the newest 3.3.2 because the gadget goal “T-14 2G4 TX” has not but been added. Hopefully it should in future releases. It additionally helps ELRS Backpack characteristic.
Sadly, Gemini mode is just not supported by the T14. Hopefully Jumper will launch a Gemini succesful T14 sooner or later. For now you should utilize the BetaFPV SuperG TX module which I’ve examined with respectable outcomes: https://oscarliang.com/betafpv-superg-nano-transmitter-module/
In case you are new to ExpressLRS, try my detailed setup information: https://oscarliang.com/setup-expresslrs-2-4ghz/
Radio Firmware
The Jumper T14 comes preinstalled with EdgeTX firmware, which is presently essentially the most broadly used radio firmware within the FPV group. Firmware model is 2.10.0-selfbuild. Firmware goal is T14.
A notable characteristic in regards to the T14 is its elimination of the SD card slot. And no, it’s not an oversight. In actual fact, the T14 doesn’t even require an SD card. As a substitute, it comes with an onboard 512MB flash reminiscence. This serves as a storage for what’s usually known as “SD Content material” the place mannequin photos, audio recordsdata and radio backups are saved. Which means you received’t have to buy an SD card individually.
You’ll be able to entry the storage through the USB-C port: join the cable whereas the radio is lively, when prompted, choose the USB Storage (SD) choice.
Whilst you doubtless received’t have to mess with firmware when the radio arrives, it’s actually potential to flash EdgeTX firmware utilizing one of many two strategies described in my tutorial: https://oscarliang.com/flash-edgetx/
Output Energy Testing
Listed below are the facility measurements of the Jumper T-14’s inner module at completely different output energy ranges.
This take a look at was executed underneath ELRS firmware model 3.3.1. I couldn’t replace to the newest 3.3.2, as T-14 2G4 TX goal has not made it to the gadget listing but. Hopefully will probably be accessible within the subsequent launch.
| Energy Ranges | 25mW | 50mW | 100mW | 250mW | 500mW | 1W |
| T14 Inside Module | 55mW | 103mW | 216mW | 448mW | 610mW | 840mW |
These measurements had been taken utilizing the ImmersionRC Energy meter V2 and display the accuracy of the manufacturing unit calibration and whether or not the utmost output energy meets expectations. It’s vital to notice that these measurements don’t mirror the {hardware} high quality, however fairly the consistency and efficiency of the inner module
After operating the T-14 at its most 1W output energy for 20 minutes, it settled round 815mW. Regardless of the extreme output energy in decrease settings, the efficiency of most setting is on par with that of the Radiomaster Boxer.
Tear Down
Taking aside the T14 was surprisingly simpler than the T20S, requiring the removing of solely 4 screws with out touching the rubber inserts.
The back and front housing are related through 2 cables, which look like for the inner and exterior RF module. The improved construct high quality was evident, with all switches’ solder joints protected by glue. The eye to element is nice to see.
The general design is considerably much less complicated in comparison with the earlier T20S, making restore and future modifications a lot simpler.
Listed below are some shut up photographs of the highest and backside PCB.
Conclusion
The Jumper T14 provides versatility and worth for FPV pilots, regardless of its few quirks.
T14 vs Boxer
In relation to selecting between the T14 and the Boxer, it boils right down to what you worth most in a transmitter.
Ergonomics sensible, each radios really feel comparable in hand, however the Boxer provides higher grip. Additionally I really feel just like the switches on the Boxer are simpler to succeed in than the T14 with out stretching your fingers an excessive amount of.
The T14’s superior OLED display screen and cleaner format make menu navigation a pleasure. But, by way of construct high quality, the Boxer has a slight edge, feeling extra strong regardless of the T14’s extra engaging worth level.
See my evaluate of the Radiomaster Boxer: https://oscarliang.com/radiomaster-boxer/
Examine costs of the Boxer:
T14 vs T20S
In case you’re deciding between the T14 and the T20S, think about the T14’s benefit of a bigger display screen and exterior modules help with no need an adapter. The T14 additionally stands out for its simplicity for restore and mods. The inner construct high quality has improved noticeably in comparison with the T20S.
For individuals who prioritize compact kind issue, you would possibly discover the T20S a extra compelling choice. Nonetheless, it provides extra options and performance whereas being a smaller radio. Positive, the T20S additionally helps exterior module, nevertheless it requires a module adapter. If you wish to go along with the T20S you actually ought to keep away from utilizing exterior module because it ruins the compact kind issue.