Futaba 4PM Plus Radio Transmitter Review

Finding the perfect radio transmitter can be quite a task; there are many factors to consider when it comes to function and practicality, which makes the decision hard for those that are trying to find the best ones. Futaba, the home of the top-selling surface radio in Australia, released a brand new radio transmitter, the 4PM Plus that could be the perfect candidate. The 4PM Plus is said to be a perfectly balanced mid-spec controller for advanced and entry-level RC enthusiasts alike. It seems like the ideal transmitter, but can it really perform as it claims? Let's get right into reviewing the Futaba 4PM Plus and see for ourselves.

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Summary

1. All About Futaba 4PM Plus Radio Transmitter
2. The Review
3. Watch the Video

All About Futaba 4PM Plus Radio Transmitter

The Futaba 4PM might be a new release, but it is probably going to be quite familiar to some of us. Aside from a few software changes and updates, the Futaba 4PM Plus comes from the same mold as Australia’s highest-selling surface radio, so you know there’s something to look forward to.

New Feature

What are these software changes that we have been talking about? They might be few, but they are heavy hitters. One of the new updates to the Futaba radio line that can be seen in the 4PM is that it is now compatible with the Mini Z EVO and the Mini Z FHS. For the Mini Z FHS traditional RR (Ready-to-Run) sets, you will need to purchase a radio module, but considering that it will communicate with both models, it's a great deal given the amount of options you have within one transmitter. 

What’s Inside the Box?

Receivers

The Futaba 4PM Set comes with two 334-E SBS Telemetry receivers capable of SR transmission and SR mode for super-fast transition mode. These receivers can go all the way up to TF HSS and SR mode and have a bus port that can turn them into expandable and switchable four-channel receivers. They can be used in electric, nitro, and all sorts of applications. The short antenna mode of the 334 SBS-E makes mounting the inside of your 1/10 electric vehicle much easier and neater. 

Tool Kit

The Futaba tool kit includes a 2-millimeter Allen key, a 1-1/2-millimeter Allen key, and a soft plastic screwdriver. These tools will be your go-to when carrying out various adjustments on the transmitter.

Transmitter

The transmitter has a sleek and neat design. Both the steering and the throttle have a nice feel to them, and feature-wise they even got some upgrades. The 4PM’s throttles are fully adjustable; you can customize the range, angle, and spring tension of the throttle rail to your liking, adjust the preload on the spring to change how it feels, and change the amount of throw on the brake, which are all really good additions. As for the steering, the steering preload is also adjustable and is now equipped with a foam wheel that makes it really comfortable to touch.

Display Screen

The 4PM has a big display screen, although it is not touch-operated. The removal of the touch screen was a welcome downgrade that a lot of people are happy with. It’s more robust than the 10PX and is just as easy to use and operate. It might have fewer features than the 10PX, but it still has an extensive selection, and for most people, this also means that fewer features are not going to go unused.

Batteries

The battery component takes 4 AA cells and has the same recess as the 3PV and 10PX, so you can use similar battery packs like LiPo or LiFePO4 batteries. You can also pop in some dry alkalines to fire it up; the transmitter feels even better with the weight of the battery in it.

Warranty Card

If you get a brand new Futaba controller, chances are that the first thing that you will be greeted with upon unboxing is an Australian warranty card. This warranty card is important when you’re buying a radio in Australia, this small piece of paper will serve as your insurance that will guarantee that your radio is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, so be careful not to lose it.

Software

Once you turn it on, you will be greeted by the typical Futaba set-up: a beautiful screen that is crisp and clean. After a little tinkering, you'll discover that it's also quite simple to navigate in. 

Its default setting is in TFH mode, with four channel indicators and digital trim controls. There are 4 menus you can access in the Futaba 4PM settings where you can access functions like lap timers, speeds, and throttle acceleration. You can also get telemetry sensors for the receivers and plug them into the S bus port; with this, you will be able to read whatever you set the sensor up for.

The Review

The 4PM might not be a base model radio, but it’s a really good compromise to have between the entry-level 3PV and the mighty 10PX. It is the perfect transmitter for those who are past the entry-level stage but find the 10PX intimidating. The fact that it comes with two receivers just makes this mid-spec radio all the more appealing. For most of us who have more than one car, being able to set it up right away is a great bonus considering its price point.

You can further improve its performance by using LiFePO4 or LiPo batteries instead of dry cells. You can use dry cells to get you out of a pinch and make sure you have plenty of power on hand in case of emergencies, but for long-term use, using the LiPo batteries and LiFEPO4 would be the better choice.

Watch the Review

Watch as Brett reviews the newly released Futaba 4PM Plus! Watch as he unboxes and demonstrates all of the transmitter’s parts and functions on the Youtube video down below.

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