Choosing the right flight controller is crucial for a successful INAV build. Here are our top picks for 2026, tested and proven by the INAV community.
Top Picks by Category
🏆 Best Overall: Matek H743-Wing V3
- STM32H743 processor — fastest available
- Built-in barometer, OSD, dual BEC
- 12 motor/servo outputs
- Dual UARTs for GPS + telemetry
- Perfect for fixed-wing and large multirotors
- Price: ~$55
🥈 Best Budget: SpeedyBee F405 V4
- STM32F405 — proven and reliable
- Built-in Bluetooth for wireless configuration
- Compact design, AIO option available
- Great community support
- Price: ~$30
🥉 Best for Fixed-Wing: Matek F765-Wing
- STM32F765 — powerful processor
- 13 PWM outputs for complex wing setups
- Built-in current sensor, dual BEC
- Designed specifically for airplane use
- Price: ~$45
Best Compact: JHEMCU GF30F722
- 30x30mm mounting
- STM32F722 processor
- 4-in-1 ESC stack compatible
- Great for 5" builds
- Price: ~$25
Best for VTOL: Matek H743-SLIM
- H7 processor for complex mixing
- Multiple servo outputs needed for VTOL transition
- Dual IMU for redundancy
- Price: ~$50
What to Look For
- Processor: H7 > F7 > F4 — more processing power = more features
- UARTs: At least 4 — GPS, receiver, telemetry, spare
- Barometer: Essential for altitude hold
- OSD chip: AT7456E for analog OSD
- Current sensor: Built-in preferred
- Servo outputs: Important for fixed-wing (need at least 4)
Boards to Avoid
- F1/F3 boards — no longer supported by INAV
- Boards without barometer — altitude hold won't work well
- Unknown Chinese clones — unreliable sensors, may cause crashes