Futaba’s FHSS and S-FHSS have been used in some of the best transmitters and receivers. It’s one of the primary reasons for Futaba’s RC market success. But some terms that Futaba uses can be confusing for beginners and veterans alike.
So, what are the differences between Futaba’s FHSS vs S-FHSS?
There’s no significant difference between FHSS and S-FHSS other than their usage. The FHSS technology is primarily used in Futaba’s surface controllers. On the contrary, the S-FHSS is used in Futaba’s controllers for RC airplanes. The S-FHSS is a newer version of the existing FHSS technology.
Anyway, that was nothing but just a brief answer to the discussion. There’s a lot more to talk about and compare. Here, we have tried our best to bring everything to one place.
With that said, let’s not roam around any longer and get started-
Futaba FHSS vs S-FHSS: Basic Differences
Before we begin the full discussion, let’s look at some of the key differences. Knowing about these differences will simplify the whole debate for you.
Both FHSS and S-FHSS have been used by Futaba in the RC transmitter/receiver market. Choosing between Futaba’s FHSS vs FASST is quite easy. Because FASST has telemetry and that’s a great advantage.
Source: ebay.com
But, differentiating between FHSS and S-FHSS can be difficult. It’s because they are almost similar.
Likewise, there are many alternatives to RC tire glues that you can use. But you need to have some prior knowledge to pick the best one!
This debate is quite similar. That’s why we’ve decided to make a short chart and bring everything in it.
Here’s what you’re looking for:
| Factors | FHSS | S-FHSS |
| Technology | Basic FHSS | Updated FHSS |
| Radio System | Surface | Aircraft |
| Primary Usage | Low-cost Surface Radios | Low-cost Aircraft Radios |
| Transmitter Cost | $90 – $270 | $100 – $400 |
| Receiver Cost | $60 – $70 | $40 – $60 |
Looks like there are quite a few differences that require an elaborated description. In the next segment, we’re going to talk about the differentiating factors in detail.
Futaba FHSS vs S-FHSS: Detailed Discussion
After reading the table, have you reached a conclusion yet? If you haven’t that’s totally fine. We are here to give further insight on both of the said technology.
We’ve also compared them head to head in different categories for better understanding. Simply go through all the primary categories and you’ll be reaching a verdict soon!
Technology
The first thing we’ve compared is the technology behind these two signals. Luckily there’s not much of a difference besides the naming.
The signal that Futaba uses in its transmitters and receivers is called the FHSS signal. It uses an S-bus system to accurately control the RC servo motors.
But what exactly is the FHSS technology?
The FHSS stands for the Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum. It’s a type of transmission where data can hop around 3 channels at a time. This helps the data avoid interference and works as a protection.
Source: aeroflyhobbies.com
In simple words, it’s a version of spread spectrum modulation. There are also similar spectrum modulations such as DSM2 or DSMX transmissions.
FHSS is the basic frequency hopping method for almost all Futaba products. There are some upgrades available in the market. They are usually included in the higher-end Futaba products.
One such example is the T-FHSS technology. It’s the same as FHSS but it has telemetry for advanced users.
But Futaba’s FHSS transmitters are still considered a bang for bucks.
Remember that, you’ll need a Futaba FHSS compatible receiver to bind the transmitter. You can also use Futaba’s S-FHSS micro receivers to do the same job.
Likewise, the S-FHSS technology is the same as the FHSS. But the naming is slightly different because of branding purposes.
Unlike T-FHSS which has telemetry, S-FHSS doesn’t have any benefits.
Rather, it’s just a rename for Futaba’s updated FHSS technology. In simple words, S-FHSS is the updated version of the basic FHSS.
Radio System
So far we’ve only talked about the spread spectrum technology. Although S-FHSS and FHSS are practically the same things, there’s a slight difference in practice.
Futaba doesn’t use the same branding name for all of its products. And that’s where the biggest difference lie.
The FHSS was the classic and oldest technology that Futaba brought. But it’s mostly used in their surface systems.
In simple words, Futaba’s controllers/receivers for RC land vehicles use FHSS technology. The high-end surface controllers use the T-FHSS or FASST technology for a better user experience.
But Futaba also has controllers for RC airplanes. Instead of using the same FHSS name, Futaba has decided to call it S-FHSS instead.
It helps Futaba with its branding. S-FHSS is a newer and revised version; particularly tweaked for RC airplanes.
Like surface controllers, the higher-end Futata air controllers use T-FHSS or FASST technology.
Both of these transmitter types are often configured while fixing RC servo motors. It’s because the transmitters are responsible for almost all the servo controls.
Primary Usage
It’s been a while so we’re going to keep it short. Like before, in this category, they have only a little bit of difference.
The FHSS technology is only implemented in Futaba’s entry-level controllers. This was then improvised by Futaba later on. The consequent versions have telemetry, better user interface, etc.
But still to this day, Futaba produces RC controllers with FHSS for hobbyists under budget.
Let’s say, you’re new and you want to take a venture into RC without spending too much money. In that case, Futaba’s entry-level FHSS RC controllers are a great choice for you.
The same applies to Futaba’s RC Aircraft controllers. The S-FHSS transmitters/receivers are inexpensive options for people under budget.
This provides access to many people that want to get into the RC hobby.
Speaking of S-FHSS receivers, we’ve listed some of our favorite picks-
| Product | Price |
| Futaba R2006GS S-FHSS Receiver | Shop Now |
| 4CH SBUS Dual Antenna RC Receiver S-FHSS | Shop Now |
| Futaba R203GF 3-Channel S-FHSS Receiver | Shop Now |
Pick whichever you like the most and get started! There are also many Futaba S-FHSS compatible receivers in the market.
Final Verdict
If you’re still a little bit confused, that’s totally fine. We’ve given our own judgment and tell you which one to go for.
If you’re planning to do some RC racing/bashing, pick a transmitter with FHSS technology. They’re comparatively cheaper than their other counterparts. They’re also very beginner-friendly and quite efficient.
However, if you’re looking to fly an RC airplane, you’ll have to pick S-FHSS controllers. Like FHSS transmitters, S-FHSS transmitters are also cheap and beginner-friendly.
FAQs
Which Is Better FASST or FHSS?
The FASST is the better version of the already available FHSS technology. Futaba only includes their FASST technology in their higher-end products. On the contrary, FHSS is used in Futaba’s entry-level equipment. The FASST is more advanced than FHSS itself and has a better range.
Is FrSky Compatible with Futaba?
Yes, FrSky is compatible with Futaba’s transmitters and receivers. FrSky’s 6 or 8-channel transmitters are easily bindable with Futaba’s receivers. But to use telemetry, then both types of equipment have to have the feature. Other than that, almost all the basic features are instantly usable.
What Does Futaba FASST Mean?
Futaba’s FASST stands for Futaba Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology. It’s an upgraded version of the classic FHSS signal. Thus Futaba brands it after their name. The FASST signal has more range, stronger resistance to interference, etc. It’s most suited in an environment with multiple signals.
Take Away
That was everything we could gather and explain on FHSS vs S-FHSS. Hopefully, that was enough to get rid of your confusion.
You can also try out the receivers and transmitters if you have a local hobby shop nearby. This way you can check it firsthand and know everything that you want to.
Finally, have a nice day!
