I had a conversation with a customer today about deciding between the 4in1 or ELRS options for their next radio, so posting here as it may be helpful to someone else in the same situation.
If you have a Radiomaster TX16S MK2 with an internal 4-in-1 module but want to use ELRS, you have two main options:
- Keep your current radio and add an external ELRS module
- Exchange for a TX16S MK2 with internal ELRS module
Keeping 4-in-1 + Adding External ELRS Module
Pros:
- Maintains compatibility with multiple protocols via 4-in-1 module
- Allows use of higher power ELRS modules (up to 1W or 2W)
- Provides flexibility to use either 4-in-1 or ELRS as needed
Cons:
- Additional cost for external module
- Slightly bulkier setup
Recommended External ELRS Modules:
Switching to Internal ELRS Radio
Pros:
- More compact all-in-one solution
- Potentially lower overall cost
- Simplified setup
Cons:
- Loses multi-protocol capability of 4-in-1 module
- Limited to 250mW output power
Recommendation
If you plan to use multiple protocols or want maximum power/range from ELRS, keep your 4-in-1 radio and add an external module. This provides the most flexibility for future builds.
If you know you’ll exclusively use ELRS going forward, switching to an internal ELRS radio may be more cost-effective and compact.
There’s no significant downside to using an external ELRS module other than the additional cost and bulk. It actually provides more options and potentially better performance than the internal module.