Walkera Tali H500 Hexacopter Review
This hexacopter, the best compromise between four and eight rotors, promises to deliver great performance for a shocking price. Do not worry though, we mean it in the best way possible. The Walkera Tali H500 Hexacopter is a model that is capable of lifting even heavier objects while maintaining a long flight time with great power and stability. All of these functions seem incredible, but let’s see what makes them possible.
| Size | 471 x 536 x 270 mm |
| Weight | 2500 gr |
| Battery | 6S, 22.2V, 5400mAh, LiPo |
| Flight time | 25 min. |
| Operating range | 1500 meters |
| Payload capacity | 480 gr |
| Brushless motors | WK-WS-34-001 |
Design
We have to admit that the design of this Ready to Fly drone is quite stunning. Even though it is simple, the body with carbon fiber finishing which comes in both black and white has just the right curves, which create an aerodynamic effect. Also, you might have noticed that there are no visible wires, motors or gears, as they are hidden behind a panel of some sort. This definitely contributes to the polished look, which gives off a professional and modern feel. Even though the body has a carbon fiber finishing, this does not mean that it is indestructible. The drone can only handle some mediocre crashes.
The rounded out and tapered toward the ends arms are built this way in order to reduce drag as much as possible and also to integrate the directional lights. One thing that can not go unnoticed is that the front arms are a bit off and pushed slightly towards the front. Although it might seem like a design mistake, this is actually done in order to shift more weight towards the front and therefore making the drone balance and level itself out with the rear. This contributes to performing slightly sharper turns.
The landing skids are both retractable and removable in case of damage. Therefore, if you ever need to switch out one of the legs, you can do this quickly, in less than a minute. This is possible thanks to the servo motor built-in in both of the legs.
Battery
Definitely the characteristic that stands out the most is the 25 minutes flight time. This is mainly possible because of the powerful 22.2V 5400mAh LiPo 6S battery that comes with the drone. It seems to be inspired from the DJI Phantom model, with a brick-like appearance. At the rear of it, you can notice four LED lights that let you know how much power there is left. Also, there is a red power check button available and a power switch. To know when the battery is appropriately inserted, you will have to hear a click when you insert it in the battery bay and then squeeze the two latches at the rear. If you want to remove it, all you have to do is simply pull it out.
The drone actively monitors the battery levels, and that is obvious thanks to the Point of Safe Return function. This means that when the drone figures out that the remaining power is enough to just return to the take-off location, then the failsafe system will activate, making the hexacopter return home.
Camera
Walkera Tali H500 comes with an included camera on the gimbal, the iLook+ HD. It can also handle other models from this manufacturer, or even GoPros. The iLook+ HD is not only very reliable, but also sturdy and able to capture incredible footage at remarkable resolutions. The only thing that might limit you in this case is the memory of the SD card that it comes with. But do not worry, this is a fixable issue, as you only need to buy an additional 32GB card.
The gimbal has a brushless joint with a wide swing angle that can handle hefty amounts of turbulence. It is also adjustable during flight, a characteristic that saves battery power and flight time. If you ever need to remove it due to travelling reasons, it is quite a simple thing to do. There is a quick-connect rail and a single port for it to be plugged into, kept together by a 3mm thumbscrew. Therefore, we think you can imagine that it is not a big deal.
Flight controller
The Walkera Tali H500 comes with a Devo F12E FPV transmitter, which is an easy to use model, as the controls are nothing out of the ordinary. The only inconvenience there might be is the size of it, as it is quite big and, therefore, the controls are spread a bit too far apart, so they are not too easy to reach.
On top of the usual commands, there are also a few extra ones that need a little bit of experience in order to be learnt. Even so, you do not need to worry, as you can find any information you need on the ArduPilot website.
Flight performance
If we were to sum up the experience of flying this drone in one word it would be ”power”. It is also very responsive, so if you want to see what it can really do, it is actually recommended that you push it to its limits. On top of this, you can also perform various stunts and tricks, so there is no limit for the fun.
Considering the complexity of this model, another thing that is highly recommended is that it should be flown by experienced pilots only. This is because the speed can be quite attractive, but if it can not be controlled, you might end up losing your hexacopter, as there is no limit for the distance it can go to, as long as it does not lose its radio connection.
Of course, it would not be a top-notch drone if it would not have a series of amazing modes. Therefore, let us introduce, first of all, the Return to Home one. It will bring the drone back to the spot it was launched from. This mode is connected to the situation we presented earlier, when you might lose connection. If this happens, the drone automatically comes back to you. Another great mode is the Intelligent Orientation one. This means that the drone will follow your direction precisely, no matter the orientation of it. A mode that photographers and videographers will most likely want to use is the GPS-lock one, that will park the drone wherever you move it. You also have the option to fly it in Manual Mode, where your only aid is the stabilization from the onboard giros.
I would like to know…
Is it actually built from carbon fiber?
No, it is just a carbon fiber look. The construction is made of plastic.
Does this equipment take still photos RAW/DNG, or just JPEG?
JPEG only.
Can I use my tablet or phone with this drone?
No.
The package of the Walkera Tali H500 Hexacopter includes:
- The hexacopter itself
- 22V 5400mAh LiPo 6S battery
- Battery charger with cables
- Case
- Devo F12E transmitter with FPV display
- TX5810 5.8G video transmitter for Scout X4 (FCC)
- 6 propellers
- G-3D brushless gimbal for GoPro and iLook cameras
- Miscellaneous spare wires and cables
- A set of specific tools
- Instruction manual
Conclusion
In conclusion, Walkera Tali H500 is one of the best consumer hexacopters in this size category. As we mentioned before, it would be best if this drone would be flown by experienced pilots, as it can be an essential part of any project and even a great free-time activity. Thanks to its high durability, you do not need to worry about the weather conditions when flying this drone, as it is highly responsive and easily controllable and also packed with a lot of failsafe systems. If you want to try it out yourself, you will be happy to learn that you can get it from Amazon and for a great deal too! We wish you happy and safe flying and we are looking forward to hearing about your experience!
