Sorry if this has been already covered........ did a half hearted search and didn`t see much.      

Cost is not really an issue, but if I can save a few dollars here and there, I can use them for other goodies. I`m trying to decide between the X9D and the X7. I like the shape of the smaller X7, but I read the sticks are self centering. (is this a bad thing?)

Also I doubt very much I will be flying planes, only quads for me. 

Next step is a lot of sim flying, then maybe a Tyrant S.

But......a radio seems like more of a long time investment and the X9D has more options. Leaning toward the larger model, just like to get some thoughts on the subject.

Thanks!

I was trying to make the same decision a few months ago, I eventually went with the X7 and couldn't be happier!

By default the sticks come self centered so you don't have to buy a mode1 / mode2 configuration, you do this yourself. It's very simple, 4 screws on the back cover then adjust or remove the springs so your preferred stick isn't self centering anymore. You can also adjust the ratchet and tensions.

The only thing I don't like is the USB port is on the bottom of the transmitter which can be a little annoying when using a SIM.

(17-Aug-2017, 02:33 AM)Snuffypot11 Wrote: I was trying to make the same decision a few months ago, I eventually went with the X7 and couldn't be happier!

By default the sticks come self centered so you don't have to buy a mode1 / mode2 configuration, you do this yourself. It's very simple, 4 screws on the back cover then adjust or remove the springs so your preferred stick isn't self centering anymore. You can also adjust the ratchet and tensions.

The only thing I don't like is the USB port is on the bottom of the transmitter which can be a little annoying when using a SIM.

Thanks Snuffy, I do remember reading something about the USB port being a pain.  I did`t know about the ratchet and tensions being ajustable. Lots to learn, but I`m making progress.

Cheers!

I've never heard anyone complain about the 7, although the USB port would probably be a deal breaker for me personally since I am an avid simulator flyer.

Looks wise the QX7 is better looking, function wise the X9D has more switches. I use 5 of the switches on mine, but 2 of those are redundancy for my arm switch. I could just as easily do the same thing with one of the pots. If I were to buy a second taranis for any reason (like mine died) I'd probably have gone with the 7 before I learned about the USB cable above.

FrSky just released the M9R gimbal for the X9D. This is one thing the QX7 doesn't have yet. Likely, only a matter of time though.

(17-Aug-2017, 03:27 PM)Carl.Vegas Wrote: I've never heard anyone complain about the 7, although the USB port would probably be a deal breaker for me personally since I am an avid simulator flyer.

Looks wise the QX7 is better looking, function wise the X9D has more switches. I use 5 of the switches on mine, but 2 of those are redundancy for my arm switch. I could just as easily do the same thing with one of the pots. If I were to buy a second taranis for any reason (like mine died) I'd probably have gone with the 7 before I learned about the USB cable above.

Thank you Carl. I`m thinking that USB port might be the tipping point. I plan on a lot of sim time before my first quad arrives and also during down time. (nasty weather, waiting for parts etc...)

(17-Aug-2017, 06:34 PM)voodoo614 Wrote: FrSky just released the M9R gimbal for the X9D.  This is one thing the QX7 doesn't have yet.  Likely, only a matter of time though.

Trying to learn all I can about these two radios, (and FPVs in general) thanks for this extra bit.

(18-Aug-2017, 12:05 AM)D. Clocktower Wrote: Thank you Carl. I`m thinking that USB port might be the tipping point. I plan on a lot of sim time before my first quad arrives and also during down time. (nasty weather, waiting for parts etc...)

NP, Simulators are awesome and I am grateful to have them. They're great for practice leading up to getting in the air, but they're also amazing for practice as you start to find yourself learning more advanced skills. I am about at a transition into intermediate skill level right now and the obcessive time I've spent on simulators lately has not just been a huge and less expensive way to get practice in, but it's really fun and the flow-state of focus isn't broken up by having to come in for a landing and battery change.

I have the X7 and love it. The USB on the bottom isn't really an issue for me. I use a 90° mini usb adaptor for using sims and don't experience any problems while plugged in.

(18-Aug-2017, 02:37 PM)Rhymin Wrote: I have the X7 and love it.  The USB on the bottom isn't really an issue for me.  I use a 90° mini usb adaptor for using sims and don't experience any problems while plugged in.

Lots of love for the X7 here. A quick, clean fix....... thanks Rhymin.

so something like this then?

https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-0-5m...e+usb+mini

(18-Aug-2017, 12:11 AM)D. Clocktower Wrote: Trying to learn all I can about these two radios, (and FPVs in general) thanks for this extra bit.

Actually there are "hall sensor" gimbals for the QX7 now. They are the M7 gimbals. They are the exact same thing as the M9s but in a housing for the QX7. They are a superb upgrade but not necessary.

EDIT: I didn't even realize he was originally talking about the brand new M9R (vs M9) gimbals. No, those do not exist for the QX7 yet, but having just upgraded to the M7s on my QX7, there is plenty to satisfy right now.

I absolutely adore my QX7. At $100 it is a steal compared to the X9D (and every other radio on the market). The USB port is only a slight issue, and you can get right-angle usb connectors that will resolve that for you.

On size, the QX7 is actually slightly wider than the X9D, though it is "shorter" from top to bottom.

The X9D case feels slightly better quality, but nowhere near the price difference.

Unless there is a specific thing about the X9D you want, I see no reason to ever buy it over a QX7.

(18-Aug-2017, 04:35 PM)Carl.Vegas Wrote: so something like this then?

https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-0-5m...e+usb+mini

Hey Carl, I have one of these. I use a remote mic on my motorcycle helmet mounted GoPro and tuck the mic inside the helmet cheek pad. I use a 90 deg. connection to eliminate a big loop of cable and to relieve stress at the connection point.

I found mine at MERCADO LIVRE in Brasil. It`s a LOT easier buying in country because of the wonderful the postal system here. (Tom BD Bad can relate)           Anyway, thank you for looking Carl!

Cheers

(18-Aug-2017, 08:09 PM)jamesw Wrote: Actually there are "hall sensor" gimbals for the QX7 now.  They are the M7 gimbals.  They are the exact same thing as the M9s but in a housing for the QX7.  They are a superb upgrade but not necessary.

EDIT: I didn't even realize he was originally talking about the brand new M9R (vs M9) gimbals.  No, those do not exist for the QX7 yet, but having just upgraded to the M7s on my QX7, there is plenty to satisfy right now.

I absolutely adore my QX7.  At $100 it is a steal compared to the X9D (and every other radio on the market).  The USB port is only a slight issue, and you can get right-angle usb connectors that will resolve that for you.  

On size, the QX7 is actually slightly wider than the X9D, though it is "shorter" from top to bottom.  

The X9D case feels slightly better quality, but nowhere near the price difference.  

Unless there is a specific thing about the X9D you want, I see no reason to ever buy it over a QX7.

No, there is no specific feature on the X9D that I really want. (going strictly on looks, I like the X7) How much trouble is it to swap out gimbals? Is this just a unplug/plug procedure? Any calibration soldering etc.... required?  The postal system in Brasil is not the most efficient......... I`m thinking it would be a good idea to order the X7 and gimbals together.

No soldering required. Just unscrew the back case, unscrew the gimbals, unplug the wires, and then reverse that process.
Calibration is done via on-screen prompts after install and takes 10 seconds.

The M7s also come self-centering so you'll have to unlock one of them, and the procedure is different than the regular gimbals, but in both cases it's simply tightening/loosening a screw on the gimbal.