RadioMaster's MT12 Surface R/C Controller

If you need to wrangle your collection of RTR R/C radios, RadioMaster's MT12 Surface Radio Controller is worth checking out. Well-known in the FPV and quadcopter community, RadioMaster is now making its entrance into the surface (and water) world of the R/C hobby.

The MT12 is a feature-packed radio capable of holding custom settings for a nearly limitless number of models thanks to its micro-SD card port. Equipped with an array of switches and buttons, you can take full advantage of this radios 16 (4-in-1) or 32 (ELRS) channel control, allowing you to map specific buttons and switches to specific vehicle controls.

In addition to its built-in buttons and switches, you can add one of two optional control panels to connect a multi-directional joystick or two two-position switches to your controller.

On the ergonomics side, you can adjust the wheel tension and trigger position and tension to suit your driving style.

Under the hood, the MT12 runs EdgeTX, an open-source firmware that offers additional advantages thanks to its development community.

What makes the MT12 even more interesting is its available ELRS frequency, which is great for long-range performance. Two versions of the MT12 are available: a 4-in-1 Multi-Protocol version and an ELRS version. No matter which one you choose, you have the option of adding on an external module to gain either ELRS or 4-in-1 frequency functionality.

RadioMaster MT12 Specs:

• Physical dimensions: 177.8118.4207.8mm
• Weight: 480 grams
• Operating frequency: 2.400GHz-2.480GHz
• Internal RF Options: 4-in-1 multi-protocol / ELRS 2.4GHz
• Supported protocols: Module dependent
• Operational current: 160mA for 4in1 / 320mA for ELRS
• Operational voltage: DC 6.6-8.4V
• Operating system: EdgeTX
• Control channels: 16 as standard, ability for expansion 32 Channels (4in1 only)
• Display: 128*64 Monochrome LCD
• Battery: 2 x 18650 cells or a 2s 7.4v 5000mah battery pack (Batteries not included)
• Charging: Built in USB-C Charging
• Firmware Upgrade method: Via USB or SD card
• Wheel and Trigger sensor: Hall-effect
• Module bay: Nano size (RadioMaster Ranger Nano Module / RadioMaster RM 4in1 module / TBS Crossfire Nano module)

The MT12 is priced at $129.99 for either the ELRS or 4-in-1 version and is available directly through RadioMaster and through their dealers. This is a radio that I'm looking forward to learning more about and I think it could offer some unique benefits for surface and water R/C applications.

Learn more about the MT12 Surface Radio Controller at radiomasterrc.com.

Image credit: RadioMaster