The ultimate guide to E-flite UMX Night Vapor RTF - An indoor outdoor escape experience

In the world of model aircraft there are few models that are as versatile and beginner-friendly as the E-flite UMX Night Vapor RTF with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU1300). This small miracle of technology offers both beginners and experienced pilots an incomparable flying experience - at day and night, indoors and outdoors. In this detailed article we illuminate all aspects of this popular ultralight flyer and give valuable tips for buyers.

Technical data and equipment at a glance

The Night Vapor in the RTF version (Ready-To-Fly) comes as a complete package and offers the most modern technology in an ultra-light design. Here the most important technical data:

E-flite’s ultra-light aircraft model impresses with its enhanced frame design that can withstand collisions better, and with the built-in AS3X and SAFE Select technologies that stabilize flight behavior and are especially valuable for beginners.

What is included

The Night Vapor in the RTF version is a real "everything-in-one" package:

• Preconfigured and assembled aircraft model
• Pre-installed electric motor
• Integrated spectrum receiving unit with ESC and servo control unit
• Spectrum remote control/controller (Mode 2)
• 150mAh 1S 3.7V LiPo battery
• AA batteries for remote control
• Detailed user manual

As a buyer, you don't have to purchase anything extra to start flying immediately - a great advantage of this complete system.

Customer reviews and reviews

What pilots love

Although no direct customer reviews are included in the search results provided, some typical experience values can be derived from market positioning and product descriptions:

The ultra-light indoor pilot is praised by many users for its stable flight performance. In particular, AS3X technology, which compensates for turbulence and ensures a more calm flight behavior, finds great recognition. Beginners value the SAFE Select function, which automatically stabilizes the model and brings it into a safe flight situation.

The LED illumination with different color options allows spectacular night flights and is viewed as a special highlight in user circles. In practice, the improved frame construction is shown to be significantly more robust compared to previous models, which is particularly relevant for beginners in which occasional collisions are unavoidable.

Critical points and limitations

Typical criticisms of this type of ultralight flyers refer to:

• The limited battery life of about 8-10 minutes per flight
• Sensitivity to wind influences in external flights
• The need for relatively large indoor spaces for indoor flights

Material quality and durability

The Night Vapor from E-flite convinces with a well-thought design made of lightweight yet robust materials. The reinforced frame design offers a good compromise between minimum weight and sufficient stability. The support surfaces consist of a flexible but resilient material that can absorb light collisions without breaking.

The electronic components are precisely installed and well protected. Especially the combination of receivers, controllers and servos is impressively solved in the narrowest space without the reliability suffering from it.

Flight performance and practical experience

Flight times and range

With the included 150mAh LiPo battery, flight times of 8-10 minutes are realistic. These can be extended by purchasing additional batteries, which is a practical solution given the short charging times (approximately 30-45 minutes).

The range of radio control is about 100 meters, which is more than sufficient for an indoor pilot. However, outside flights should never exceed the visibility.

Increased power and maneuverability

Despite the low weight and compact size, the model offers amazing flight characteristics. The climbing performance is good for this class, though not spectacular. The ultra-light flyer is not designed for acrobatic manoeuvres, but is thrilled by its maneuveriness and gentle flying properties.

The Night Vapor shows its strengths especially in interior spaces: Slow, controlled flights through living rooms or halls are easily possible. AS3X technology ensures remarkable stability.

Transport and storage

With a span of only 376 mm, the UMX Night Vapor is extremely transport-friendly. The low weight of 25 grams makes it an ideal companion for spontaneous flight adventures. However, it should be noted:

• The filigree components require a certain protection during transport
• A suitable transport box is recommended, but is not included
• The support surfaces are not removable, which slightly increases the space requirement

Spare parts supply and support

E-flite belongs to Horizon Hobby, one of the leading RC providers, which ensures good spare parts supply. Typical wear parts such as:

• Propeller
• Batteries
• LED lighting sets
• Motors and servos

are readily available. This is an important factor for the longevity of the model, as in this type of ultralight flyer occasional repairs are part of normality.

Target group and accessibility

The E-flite UMX Night Vapor RTF with AS3X and SAFE Select is aimed at:

• Beginners looking for a good and stable first plane
• Advanced pilots who want to enjoy indoor flights in bad weather
• Night flight enthusiasts who appreciate the LED lighting system
• Model builder with limited space for larger models

The SAFE Select technology makes this flyer particularly user-friendly, as it ensures self-stabilization in activated mode and minimizes crashes. At the same time, advanced pilots can disable this function and take more control.

Assembly and commissioning

As a Ready-To-Fly (RTF) model, assembly is minimal. After unpacking, only a few steps are necessary:

1. Insert batteries into remote control
2. Charge the supplied LiPo battery
3. Connect the battery to the model
4. Switch on transmitter and connect to receiver

The included guide is very detailed through these steps and also contains valuable tips for the first flight tests. The entire process up to the first flight takes about 30-45 minutes, mainly due to the charging process for the battery.

Community support and resources

An active community has developed around this popular ultralight flyer. On platforms such as:

• RCGroups.com
• FliteTest.com
• Various Facebook groups and YouTube channels

numerous discussions, suggestions for modification and assistance. The great popularity of the model ensures a lively exchange among the owners.

Alternative models compared

There are some alternatives to Night Vapor on the market for ultra-light indoor aircraft:

1. Hobby zone Champ - Also a RTF model, somewhat cheaper but without the advanced stabilization systems and LED lighting.

2. Park zone Vapor - The predecessor of the Night Vapor, without AS3X and SAFE Select, available at a lower price.

3. E-flie UMX Radian - An ultra-light sailor with similar technology, but offering a different flight experience.

4. Blade mCX2 - A helicopter as an alternative for indoor flights, with comparable size and complexity.

In a direct comparison, the Night Vapor stands out due to its combination of state-of-the-art flight technology, adaptable LED lighting and enhanced frame, which justifies the somewhat higher price.

Value for money

With a price of about 140-150 euros, the E-flite UMX Night Vapor RTF is positioned in the middle price segment for RTF models. In view of the technology offered and the complete equipment, it offers a good value for money, especially for beginners who can save the purchase of additional components.

Experienced pilots who already have a compatible spectrum remote control can access the cheaper BNF (Bind-and-Fly) version and thus save costs.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Flight optimization for beginners

1. First flights in SAFE mode: Use SAFE Select technology for your first flight tests. It prevents excessive control failures and automatically brings the model into a stable flight position when the control billets are released.

2. Spacious room: Choose a space as large as possible for the first indoor flights without obstacles. Ideal places are gymnasiums, large living rooms or garages.

3. Avoiding: In the case of external flights, absolute wind silence is required. Even light breezes can strongly influence the ultra-light plane.

4. Hold height: Always fly with sufficient height to have enough time for corrections in case of problems.

Tuning and modifications

1. Battery upgrade: Invest in several replacement batteries to extend the flight sessions. Watch identical specifications (150mAh 1S 3.7V LiPo).

2. LED adjustment: Experiment with the different color options of LED lighting to find your personal style and optimize visibility.

3. Propeller fine tuning: With minimal balancing of the propeller, vibrations can be reduced and the flight properties can be improved.

4. Priority optimization: By minimal displacement of the battery, the focus can be fine-adjusted and the flight behavior can be adjusted.

Frequent questions and problems of users

Problem: Low flight time

Solution: The flight time of 8-10 minutes is normal for this model class. Invest in multiple replacement batteries and a multiple charge to minimize interruptions. Also make sure not to unload the batteries and always load them completely.

Problem: unstable flight behaviour

Solution: First check whether AS3X technology is correctly calibrated. Place the model on a flat surface before switching on the transmitter. Make sure there are no wind influences and that the control failures are set correctly. During external flights, even a light breeze can lead to instability.

Problem: LED lighting does not work

Solution: Check the cabling and the connections. Often only one cable is loose. The LED unit refers its current from the main battery, so check the charging state. If necessary, the LED unit can also be completely replaced.

Problem: difficulties in connecting the transmitter

Solution: Follow the binding procedure in the instructions. Make sure that the battery is fully charged and that no other transmitters are active nearby. In case of persistent problems, a reset of the receiver may be necessary.

Problem: Propeller does not rotate or irregular

Solution: Check if the propeller can rotate freely and is not blocked by foreign bodies. Check the engine connections and the controller. In case of persistent problems, a motor exchange can be necessary, which is relatively easy to carry out in this model.

Conclusion: For whom to buy the Night Vapor

The E-flite UMX Night Vapor RTF with AS3X and SAFE Select is an impressive model aircraft that is an excellent choice for beginners and indoor enthusiasts. The combination of modern stabilization technology, reinforced frame construction and customizable LED lighting makes it a versatile companion for flight adventures at day and night.

Experienced pilots will appreciate the precise control and the ability to disable the stabilisation aids while beginners benefit from the supporting technologies. The complete RTF package offers an uncomplicated entry without hidden additional costs.

The limitations regarding wind sensitivity and flight time are normal for this model class and are more than compensated by the numerous advantages. With some exercise and the right spare parts, the ultra-light flyer from E-flite becomes a long-term companion, which ensures a lot of flight fun both in the apartment and in the outdoors.

If you are looking for a reliable, stable and visually attractive ultralight flyer with state-of-the-art technology, this model definitely does nothing wrong.