DarwinFPV Announces CineApe20: A Sub-150g 3S Cinewhoop for Everyone

Cinewhoop for Everyone

DarwinFPV, a well-respected developer in the hobbyist drone community, has announced the CineApe20—a palm-sized, ultra-light 3S 2-inch Cinewhoop designed for everyone. Weighing under 100 grams, it doesn't require registration in most locations and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor flights. Its modular design and plug-and-play components eliminate the need for soldering, making it perfect for beginners. The durable carbon fiber frame and polycarbonate canopy can withstand crashes, even those resulting from novice errors.

Key Features

The CineApe20 offers excellent flight characteristics with a 6:1 thrust-to-weight ratio, supports 2S-3S power, boasts a 5.5-minute flight time, and is compatible with various video systems including O3, RunCam Link, Walksnail, OpenIPC, and even the upcoming DJI O4. It’s currently the cheapest 2-inch Cinewhoop on the market, combining 4K filming capabilities and freestyle flying in a safe and durable package.

Frame and Flight Controller

The CineApe20 features a 90mm diagonal, 2mm thick True-X carbon fiber frame with a polycarbonate protective ring around the powertrain. The flight controller is a DarwinFPV F411 15A ELRS AIO, integrating a 4-in-1 15A ESC and an ExpressLRS SPI receiver. The electronics are protected by a TPU shroud.

Motor and Propeller Group

The CineApe20 utilizes four Bling 1103 8000KV brushless motors paired with Gemfan 2023-3 2-inch 3-blade propellers. The motor shafts are designed to be more flexible for increased crash resistance. The 6:1 thrust-to-weight ratio allows for a maximum horizontal flight speed of 45 km/h.

Versions, Radio, and Video

The CineApe20 comes in several versions. An analog version includes a Caddx Ant camera and a DarwinFPV 5.8 GHz VTx with adjustable power (25/200/400/600 mW). This version can optionally be upgraded with a TBS Crossfire receiver. A digital version features a DJI O3 Air Unit. A “barebones” version without a video unit is also available for those who already own a DJI O3 system.

GPS Module, Power, and Flight Weight

A M10 Mini GPS module is integrated into the front of the quadcopter to minimize antenna interference. The CineApe20 can be powered by 2S or 3S LiPo batteries with an XT30 connector. A 3S 380-500 mAh 100C battery is recommended. The flight weight, including a 3S 500 mAh battery in the heaviest (O3) version, is just 145 grams. The weight without the battery varies depending on the version.

Availability and Price

The CineApe20 is available now from DarwinFPV's store and various online retailers. Prices are approximately $176 for the analog ELRS version, $206 for the analog TBS version, $506 for the O3 version, and $145 for the O3-less version (excluding shipping and taxes).

Conclusion

Let us know your thoughts on the new DarwinFPV CineApe20 in the comments below! Stay tuned for more news and reviews on the best unmanned aerial vehicles. Fly safe and happy holidays!