I have been flying the Cobra X for about a month. Love them. You can plug your hdmi in from your laptop or pc and play Liftoff with them for more realism on the simulator.
The mention of compatibility for those of us who wear glasses is much appreciated! Being able to wear glasses with the goggles is another cost to save.
@@dwlld right there with ya! If I hadn't of bought the Fat Shark Scouts (which I love) just a few months ago, I'd definitely be ordering the Cobra X. Hope they work well for ya!
@@BoneBear I hate my scouts..... the lack of a module bay drives me batty! I have dji now..... I needed the clarity and the ability to wear glasses in a goggle.... but, im Thinking of picking up these cobras for my analog stuf
Hi Mr. Bardwell, I'm a noob to fpv and I had to reach out and let you know that I'm that guy out there! it was like you were talking directly to me . I have to watch some of the stuff accouple of time" cuz I'm getting a little older now " but you my good man are by far the easiest to comprehend and listen to, I thank you for that ! By the way, I spoke to Pam D. at get fpv this afternoon and as I was finishing up I let her know that I found them through your you tube channel and what a great guy I thought you are, she responded... " I already knew that!" Thanks again and wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas. Jim from Oberlin Ohio.
I bought these shortly after they were released, and I couldn't be happier with them. Major selling points for me were the fact that they come with a replaceable module, and I'm able to wear my glasses with them. Prior to getting these, I was using cheap $50 box goggles, and couldn't wear my glasses with them which made reading an OSD very difficult. Now I can read the OSD without a problem. Image quality is great, and to improve the already decent reception, I went with a XILO AXII long range antenna as well as a Menace Periscope. So far, so good. I may look like an alien or bug with these 2 antennas sticking straight up so high, but function over fashion.
Not totally bad, but I can't believe almost no so called "reviewer" mentions the serious battery life issues Cobras have! These goggles only make about 15 minutes with the 18650 and what's worse, the power cuts off without warning. This is extremely dangerous! Before buying these everyone should be warned they will have hanging cables around their face as the power bank or the separate lipo is the only way to power these goggle. I am very disappointed about this unfortunately.
@@mipuist What capacity 18650 are you using that's providing that little of runtime? The one and only 18650 I have is a 3,400 mAh Li-ion, and it'll last over a hour per charge. In regards to it dying without warning, there are a couple ways to avoid that. The easiest way is to leave the goggle's OSD turned on (note: it may overlap your drone's OSD), and keep an eye on the battery meter. Once it turns from blue to yellow, I would recommend swapping out the battery to a fully charged one. That way it doesn't drain all the way and leave you crashing from a black out. The other "warning" to look for is a significant drop in signal quality/strength. The one time my 18650 died, I noticed a minute or 2 before it died that there was extra breakup in my video signal. I was still flying in the same area and at the same distance away, but the video quality was getting a little rough. I thought "huh, that's weird" but kept going. Bad idea, but I didn't know any better at the time. Now I would take that as a final warning if it were to happen again. Ultimately, I think the goggles work better/safer with a lipo pack plugged into the DC in port, but I know it may be an inconvenience to some because you'd have a battery cable hanging from the bottom of the goggles. I'm not exactly a fan of that either, but it's not too bad in practice. With that said, I would like to see a spot on the headstrap for placement of a standard lipo pack. Maybe that can be resolved by swapping the headstrap, or Skyzone can add that feature to the next generation of these goggles. Pretty sure there's a simple remedy for that issue.
@@drumstickscarecrow All my 18650s are 3000mAh li-ions, including brand new ones, performing without problem in other devices. Swapping battery once the gauge turns yellow would basically mean changing it after every 5 minute flight... The plastic battery holder is not of a great quality I'm afraid it would not survive more than few days anyway. Can't believe you are getting times over hour. What is your firmware version? Tried to upgrade to the latest one but no change in the battery life. I wonder whether Skyzone did not start producing in poorer quality. I am obviously not the only one complaining even here in comments. Even Joshua mentioned 30 min battery life at best under one comment here I think. There is also discussions on this topic about this on various forums (e.g.: www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?3769075-Eachine-Skyzone-Goggles-Cobra-S-Cobra-X-FPV-Goggles-%2A%2A-USER-THREAD%2A%2A/page4)
@@drumstickscarecrow fw1: 1.3.6; fw1: 1.2.0.4; hw: 1.2.3.4 (eh) here. Maybe you should not update if you are getting such a great times, just for sure (or do it and let us know if it stays the same :)). I think they have added some simple "find my drone" functionality (using the patch antenna) and some battery warning beeps for 2-6S power sources, but I would definitely prefer some acceptable battery lifespan instead...
Josh Bardwell does and so would I but it has to have a lil built in audio board with "You're going to learn something today" and "Why are you still here?" hahaha
Just out of curiosity do your hdo2 ever have a distortion look to them I am using a caddx ratel with the hdo2 and it looks bad compared to my fs recons I always end up straining my eyes when using the hdo2 but have no issues with dji or fs recons any help is greatly appreciated thanks
Bought the X with one of your links! It will be my first pair! Thank you! (I have a high astigmatism and I figure that if I can’t see through binoculars, then I can’t see through adjustable spherical diopters, I need cylindrical diopters)
If you put a dark cloth on top of the Googles and behind the gopro the recording of the screen will be way better =), you can see the reflex of the gopro and the back of the room hehhee
I've had my Cobra X goggles for close to a month now and just waiting for winter to end so I can really use them and just got the Jumper T lite a couple days ago, I'm ready!
As I'm just getting in to fpv these are ideal for someone like me. I don't want to be spending more than I need but I want decent image quality without having to spend extra on special lenses for short sightedness. All that's left is finding a good UK reseller that stocks them....
I bought Cobra X on preorder to replace EV800D. I have received them about 20 days ago and love them. Screen is nice, range is great (although I am still waiting for AXII antennas). They are very small for a box goggles, but I have no problem focusing on the screen even without the glasses. DVR is decent. On a single 18500 battery (Sony VTC6) I get about 50 minutes before they turn off, with a 12500 mah USB powerbank I get about 3h 30min. With a powerbank and internal 18650 I get 4+ hours of continuous use. There is a new FW on Skyzone site since Jan 30th, which gets a better voltage reading and warnings for 18650 batteries.
@@TheMadmacs Hi, I made a few tests today, it looks like the problem with USB was with my powerbank. I tried both other powerbank and a 2S battery in DCIN and goggles work with them without 18650 in the bay. With USB you only have a USB indicator on the screen and don't know how much power is left in the powerbank (powerbank always provide 5V until its empty), and with 2S-6S battery via DCIN you have a voltage reading. If you have a 18650 in the bay and connect USB or DCIN, external battery will both power the goggles and charge the 18650 in the bay. It is a very good safety feature - even if you somehow disconnect DCIN or USB cable by accident while flying, the goggles will continue working with the 18650 in the bay.
Just picked up these goggles today after much research. So far very impressed going for 1st flight in basement with my new mobeetle6 also nice Pick. Thanks Joshua!
I just recieved a pair of Cobra S goggles and they are pretty good for the price, overall good purchase. But! Be aware that the Cobra S are 16:9 not 4:3! And I just found out that they won't boot if you are powering them from USB with less than 1.5 amps output.
I just watched this video. I then clicked on the Pryo drone link and ordered my very first pair of goggles. I'm also looking to buy a batteries that will give me more than ten minutes of flight time. I bought the CL1Built and Tuned- FrSky XM + / along with the Taranis Q X7. The drone and radio are just sitting on my shelf. All I need is batteries for them. Thanks for your all your educational videos. I'll show my support by purchasing through your links and eventually sign up for the monthly.
@@Fireonthesticks27 Awesome. Thanks for the battery info. So, those batteries can be used for the goggles, drone and the Taranis Q X7? At the time of ordering I didn't know it was a difference in v1 and v2. But after ordering and reading the specs. I noticed that the one I ordered has a steadyview receiver. I already sent a email to Pryo drone to see if I brought the correct one. I'm thinking rapid fire may not be in the one I ordered. Excited. Happy flying
@@digitalpituitary5226 yes I’m using a 2s Lipo the Qx7 and will be using an xt60 4S Lipo to power the goggles , you can also use the USB port with a power bank too
Thanks for the comment. I wonder if you've tried the fatshark Scout? I think they're really good but wondering about the HDMI input for possible SharkBite.
The thing that ABSOLUTELY makes the cobras better than any other box goggle is the ability to take a module!!!!! Period! It blows my mind why it's taken this long to get a box goggle that has a module bay.
I am seriously considering this as my first (and probably only analog goggles). As I would love going full digital DJI (which are also kind of box goggles anyway right?) but am not ready to invest that much at the moment. So we are somewhere out there :D
Ive been using these for a few months and love them. Honestly Ive always preferred box goggles. Id say the only downside to these goggles is that they are power hungry.
Great review, as always. I have the X and I've them. Only 2 issues for me. Fogging! And yes, the fan was on it's highest setting. The fan doesn't blow air onto the lens so how can it remove the fogging? This could be a problem outdoors in my area since it's very humid during the summer. Secondly, I find the screen to be a bit too big. Perhaps I should remove the lens? It's like sitting in the first row at the movies. It would be great if a firmware update could have a feature where you can choose different screen sizes like on a computer monitor. Besides that, they are very good.
I quess i am person who bought them, they are just good upgrade from cheap box gogles, they cost 220$, so for 350 i can get attitude V6 and they will have worse reception so they will need 100$ for better module, so for these price i could just add some $ and get oleds, but then i could have just bought dji. I think they just have really good price to performance ratio.
Thank you for the video! This might possibly be exactly what I've been looking for. Started flying this past summer on the cheapest things I could find. Goggles were one of the first things I wanted to upgrade BUT my glasses (and prices) have been a huge reason I haven't yet. This might be it
The fxt viper v2 is probably about the only ones i can think of that are a competitor for these box goggles, they even use the same mirror design, the vipers are very comfortable for glasses. I'd love to see you compare the two
I bought them when they were $130... returned immediately due to distorted (badly curved) image. Very disappointing. Problem is the mirror curve - they use a flexible mirror popped into place and for a proper image would need to be glued to a form creating the correct curve at a minimum. Curved mirror optics is not new tech. With that fault they would fit in to the 80-100 price range better, imhp. By the way the update to v2 was simply a minor firmware change...
I mean a newbie wanting to get into digital and not dji this would be the best cheapest option imo. Great analog when you want it and able to run sharkbyte making it like $550 in all for sharkbyte. Would definitely be a consideration if i wasnt already invested in analog so deep
I took the nose foam out and it fits a lot better but I still get a little light leak around the sides where the rectangle foam goes. Pretty comfortable though.
Yep, this is the review I was waiting on, I am that person that is looking for this set of box goggles, I was working on making something similar modifying a set of EV800's to accept a Fusion or Rapidfire module however, with the better screen and feature set these goggles offer, It's a no brainer. Now that they have the JB stamp of approval I feel that much more confident laying out my $220 for these.
"of course they come with a head strap, I just took it off" I just imagine Bardwell standing against a wall or a sign or something holding them on while flying lol
@@Aar0n2009 no, he clearly said about oled screen, hd3 got lcd. so 2 options: he mistook hdo2 (which would be strange, as he really fly a lot with those ;) ) or he got new Fatties in test, same as he got DJI v2 from longer time already.
I wish there were more "transformer" style box goggles, with the removable screens. It makes a great first-time purchase, since you can later use it as a standalone monitor for a friend, after you upgrade.
The only shortcoming i have found with these goggles is that the 18650 only lasts about 30 minutes. This suggests that the goggles are drawing about 6 amps at these voltages (i can only assume they are using a very inefficient voltage regulator to step up the voltage because with a 5v input they draw about 1.5amps ).
@@look2christ777 I use a 3s 850 mah lipo through the DC in and get about 1 and a 1/4 hours. 2 x 18650's will probably get you about 2 hours or more. My EV800D's only last about an hour.
@@michaelbibby8636 yeah, youre right about the ev800d, an hour is more accurate. Maybe 1 hour 10 mins tops. I wonder how long a 2s 3000mah lipo would give.
@@look2christ777 The current consumption at 5 volts is about 1.5 amps so that would be about 2 hours, maybe more. I should also point out that in my testing the 18650 lasted about 3 hours when I was using the goggles with a simulator through the AV input, so clearly the RF module is very power hungry.
30 minutes is from the world of dreams. I get 15 minutes, maybe 20 if I turn off the rapid mix, DVR, fan and keep the display light on low. Worse is the power just cuts off without warning.
Also I used to need reading goglasses in my old goggles. No need in these ones, even though the easily fit, but with the lense/mirrior set-up in these. No longer need my reading glasses. Extra bonus 😊👍
Joshua, if you put some reading glasses lens in front of the gopro you will see a clear image of the googles, right now the menus look out of focus, is because the go pro cant see that close. i dont know if with +2 or +3 you can get the image to look crisp.
I wish you had an affiliate link for Skyzone. It seems none of the retailers have the Cobra X V2 with the New Fusion V3.3 Board for the Steadyview/RapidMix Module. This is Skyzone's solution for the major issue you addressed briefly in this video. Skyzone is shipping this product with the updated hardware, so I have to go with them.
My skyzone SJ-01 1280x800 box goggles rock and the internal diversity RX is very good too. They were pretty much the most expensive boggles around when I bought them but I've had them several years now and I like the 72 degree fov and the 7" screen so much, I have no intention on replacing them especially when they have HDMI in , can display 720p in full quality and downscale 1080p to just over 720 res.
good review jb i have it (s) already and like it alot the dvr is also good anly dispinting is no save rf channels also on build quality i have dropped in a stream and took it apart for draining and cleaning and it works again the way it engineering on the inside is impressive
Thank you! I AM "you"....I need the absolute best resolution and range for 200-250. Thanks for the help! Love your vids! They're a great help to me since I'm new to the hobby and buying my first sets of gear
I bought those goggles from Paweł (you know who he is :) ). I was honestly looking for a replacement for my Fatshark HD (the first gen) which I have fitted with the RapidFIRE receiver and (surprise surprise) a replacement for EV800 (not D!) - because the receiver on both is in par when it comes to sensitivity which is absolutely crucial on long range flights that I do. I also have an RC car that has a 2-axis gimbal, and I was trying to fit the EV800 with some sort of head tracker which in the end proved to be a disaster. That's the only reason the Fatsharks were still with me - because of the great head tracker. With the Dominators the DVR is just junk. The EV800 don't have one, but one could be "integrated" manually (which I did). Now with the Cobra X I have a pair of goggles that fit my head (dominators have just too blurry edges for me), have a fantastic field of view (but smaller than the EV800), a selectable screen ratio (something that's missing on the EV800), a DVR that doesn't suck, a head tracker that just works and setting it up was not a pain in the butt like it was with the Fatsharks and, on top of it, they have a receiver that is just awesome and works great on long range flights. Believe it or not there is absolutely nothing I can complain about those goggles which is definitely not the case with super expensive Dominators or budget EV800. Btw, the EV800D's DVR is a total disaster. It stops recording when the signal is lost. It even sometimes won't resume after the signal is re-acquired! Total garbage for situations where you know your signal is going to break up from time to time. I have found my perfect goggles and in the unlikely case they would break I will but another pair of those - just because they are AWESOME!
I bought the cobra X because I wanted goggles that I could wear my glasses in. I love the goggles, huge upgrade over the eachine ev800d that I used before.
i can't wait for mine to arrive, my ev800d's have served me well, i even like the og antennae, but i find myself looking for more detail. i hope the cobras do the trick.
I have a eyes issue so I'm using only right eye. I don't wanna buy classic fatshark because I will not use left screen ever. That googles is for me ! Thanks for review - help me a lot.
I got the cobra x recently and it's my first fpv Google. I really like the image quality and multiple options to power up the unit along with the dvr recording and hdmi support. However I do feel the cobra x to be a bit heavy and uncomfortable at the nose section. I used the nose foam pad and it made it worst. But other than that I am happy using it 👍
Do you experience the sidescrolling image issue that was mentioned? Thinking of getting these but can't seem to find an answer on if this has been fixed
@@jacobhobday111 yes I've experienced it a few times but after power cycling the drone and goggles it was back to normal. I have v2 of the goggles..the new updated video receiver module should be better
Thanks for the quick reply, so they haven't patched this in a firmware update? Would you still recommend getting these over the fatshark scouts or hawkeye little pilot v2? Or should I just invest in the cobras and get a new receiver to fix the rolling image? (i did see that if you change the receiver setting to something other than diversity it fixes it, not sure if that's the case though). Sorry I'm new to the hobby just don't want to get the cobras if the rolling image thing happens often.
@@jacobhobday111 so far i haven't had any major issue with my cobra x and i am satisfied with it. I would suggest get the cobra x because it has DVR, head tracker built-in, cooling fan, av input, and 3 way power supply options...so it's feature loaded unlike other box goggles.
@@RakishRc thanks for the help, correcting my earlier reply you should be able to get around the rolling image by changing from mix to diversity, personally I'm not too fussed about using mix so the rolling image shouldn't be a problem for me.
Lol I think I'm the only person in fpv that buys ev800d's 1 1/2 years after starting. But I really like em and the fov for me is a necessity. I can't handle the small screens. But I seriously hate the form factor of box goggles. It's a love / hate relationship.
@@daddy_loves_quads135 - I just got the Fatshark Recon for $80 and couldn’t be happier😂 I mean, I DO want the Skyzone, but ..... I also want to build a bigger quad!
I honestly don't know why they make the FoV on dominators and other expensive goggles this small. It's like watching a computer screen from 3 meters. You can't see anything and the strain on the eyes is really big. Once the screen is bigger the edges become so blurry you can't possibly read the OSD (which is usually on the edges).
I have some cobra x v2 goggles and I don't even where glasses. I do however wear contacts but that's neither here nor there. I like the emersion of box goggles a little better despite the extra bulk and the resolution with the bigger screen compared to slimmer fatsharks really matters to me flying long range. The price point for the features it has are great and I plan to plug in the upcoming HD zero digi conversion to take it up another level. After the smoke clears with everything included in the section of my rig, still less than DJI goggles and DJI goggles are so big as is that they might as well be box goggles anyway. I'm not racing competitively, just slapping freestyle gaps and flying long range too so the cobra x goggles are more than enough. I highly recommend to anybody getting into the hobby that care about higher end quality for a good price (compared to ALL goggles, not just box goggles)
I like using box goggles sometimes. I still have some quantum v2’s that I use with either an, immersion R/C 2.4ghz RX, a TBS 2.4ghz RX, or I can just connect it to my TBS ground station when I flying some of my larger quads long range. They feel a lot less claustrophobic than fat shark style glasses.
Thank you! I should try this product. Fatshark-style goggles are just too narrow for my head and IPD. Box goggles with decent image quality and hdmi for shark byte may be a solution
I'm way too late on this video, but I am super excited to see this product. I just wonder if by now, (March, 2022) there is a box goggle which improves on this model?!
The receiver on the Fatshark Scouts is worse than the receiver on the Eachine EV800D's. The receiver on the Cobra X's is significantly better than on the EV800D's.
@NoHandleFPV Here's the thing: comparing scouts to cobras is not really comparing apples with apples. If you only want to compare the image quality and the comfort of wearing them then yes, they are comparable. But man... the cobras offer sooo much more! A really good receiver, a head tracker, dual-power option, DVR that doesn't suck and OSD that is a pleasure to use.
Hey Joshua, I bought these Cobra X goggles and subsequently smashed the camera on my Tinyhawk II Freestyle. When looking at the camera replacements I saw that that the stock camera had 700TVL and the replacement has 1200TVL, so I thought awesome... twice as good resolution! Not so fast though. I then read that analog vTX only broadcasts at 640 X 480 max anyway. So why did I buy a goggle that has twice the resolution if I cant use that resolution anyway? Do you have any videos that cover all the finer points of resolution from camera to screen? I know analog is on it's way out but some of us are still here and this subject is complex. I need to learn something today!!
There is the possibility of adding a Shark Byte module on it and turning it into a digital goggle. It looks like a great option. I have an EV800D and I think to buy it. Way to Go! Salute from Brazil.
@ Joshua Bardwell So I'm kinda behind in understanding of the technical terms when you or others may be talking about different accessories that are used for drones or radio controllers. In your video I thought you meant that the Cobra X had rapid fire. It turns out that the one I purchased has steadyview and the other Cobra X has rapid mix. I wrote pyro about the rapid fire. They wrote back, that these goggles definitely do not come with a Rapidfire module. That module itself is $150, nearly 75% of the cost of the goggles themselves. They said that you - was likely alluding to is that these goggles will allow you to plug in a Rapidfire module, unlike past Skyzone box goggles. So now that pyrodrone specified that rapid fire isn't included. (That's exactly what they wrote). I'm not sure which is a better buy between the steadyview receiver or the rapid mix receiver. Even though the goggles are on it's way to me with the steadyview version. receiver.
Steadyview is very good and almost as good as rapidfire. In the video I am saying that this is the first box goggle you could theoretically plug rapidfire into if you had one. Not that it comes with rapidfire.
That lens inside (and the angled mirror) look exactly as Fatshark Scout I have. Wondering, how do they compare. Also, Scout is powered by single cell battert,
I've been waiting for this review, thank you JB great review! Mine arrived the other day and I have some thoughts. First...when heard about these several weeks ago I was pumped and knew that I was the guy (market) these were made for...why? 1) I'm not ready to pay $400-700 for goggles that I don't know if I'll like, but damn it! I want better pic quality and range! 2) I'm not ready to pay $400-700 for goggles when I'm still learning and flying fields, small parks, and my backyard. 3) I wear glasses and have astigmatisms and without testing fatsharks or DJIs before buying it would be a huge gamble to drop $400-700 on something that might not work for me. 4) I think this goggle hits the sweet spot where someone like myself can get into digital at some point down the road via Shark Byte and that conversion feels like (likely is) value. That said, i have had a couple of issues and currently have tickets in with RDQ and Skyzone. First, the charging circuit wasn't working for my 18650 battery. The manual talks about this issue but its very poorly translated, despite the fact, the solution they offer didn't work. I charged the battery separately and installed it which seems to have resolved the charging circuit issue...but there is more. Next, i wanted to try the alternate power option, 4s/6s via the barrel plug. When I went to insert the barrel plug I made sparks! after that, no more power from 4s/6s UNLESS the 18650 was installed. I have asked Skyzone if this is by design, waiting for a response. Side note, the charging circuit works with an external DC power supply like the 4s/6s. Note 2, insert barrel plug FIRST, then plug in 4s/6s! That should be added to the manual and I plan to suggest this to Skyzone. For other box gogglers like myself, I can tell you that the images and review pics don't really do justice to the size. I have a pair of Emax Transporters that were my first goggle and the CobraX is almost the same size....which I love. I will follow up on this post when I hear back from Skyzone on the issues I'm having, but from the couple flights i have used them, they are everything I wanted without the insane price tag!
i have bad astigmatism myself, i can comfortably wear my glasses with the dji goggles. i started with fpv just in august, so glad i jumped head first with them. so if in the future you think about upgrading glasses are not a limiting factor. and with the digiadapter you don't need to convert the quad(s) you already own
I'm waiting for mine to arrive. I went from Quanum cyclops Diversity to Fatshark HD2 Terminator editions. Now I want to go back to box goggles. The small screens, just are not worth the price you pay for fatshark goggles. Bardwell didn't talk about the fact that these goggles use the same module system as Fatshark, so if you like your CrossFire or whatever, well you can use it with these.
Yes what ever power source the goggle takes first is what it says on i've notice too. But the battery doesn't last long even if you charge it outside the goggle so I just use a external battery and keep a few 18650 on hand for when I'm in a pinch. But coming from the FS Scout to the Cobra X I love them. My Skyzone 02X aren't bad either as back up.
I'm new and bought these. I'm gonna go DJI, but don't wanna smash up vistas or air units (I've killed an ESC and 2 FCs already) on my learner kwads, but I still wanna see well enough to even try hit the gaps(why I'm breaking kwads) and the BetaFPV VR01s that came with my advanced kit 2 just don't cut it.
Vistas and air units are extremely durable. Way more durable than any other piece of FPV equipment. They aren't 100% indestructible but they're very strong.
@@JoshuaBardwell Fair enough. Thanks for making my decision seem questionable on a product you said was the best "period". LOL j/k I'm quite certain I'll be happy when they arrive.
I'm one of the people these are designed for. Essentially for being able to wear eyeglasses (I'm 60 and use reading glasses, and MANY goggles do not focus without buying expensive-ish custom lenses), and, it doesn't hurt to get a near-Rapidfire receiver for free (and be able to swap it out (unlike the Scouts)). Plus it's a really good image for $230. Plus there's the HDMI-in for a possible Shark Byte future. Plus, I didn't want to spend much more than this for an analog goggle, figuring my next goggle is going to be digital, and still wanting to have an analog goggle laying around for tiny whoops, etc, without it being $400/$500 worth of analog goggle "laying around".
Just got mine and boy do I wish they had just gone for a regular old fresnel lens instead of those split lenses. Contrary to what Bardwell is saying there is no problem at all focusing on the screen of a normal boxed goggle because the lens makes it equivalent in both vergance and accomodation to a larger screen at a further distance. This split lens system means that unlike with a large single lens both eyes get an offset image meaning that you have to focus on something that appears to be at a different distance in terms of perspective than in terms of focus. not a deal breaker necessarily but it sure ruins the comfortable relaxed viewing of normal boxed goggles a quite bit. I was kinda expecting there was some optical trick involved to fix this issues like maybe having the lenses be tilted relative to each other or something but that does not appear to be the case. the lens appears replaceable so maybe one can find a fresnel lens of just the right focal lenght and make a mod...
@@JoshuaBardwell Interesting! Havent seen a single one that doesn't have one can you point to an example? Do they just use a huge monolithic lense instead?
I agree. I wish the plano lens was continuous. The center flat prevents me from seeing both sides clearly. I have to close one eye to make out text from the OSD. Bummer! My $25 old Quanum goggles have a beutiful continuous plano lense the works great. I just wish they had I hi res display.
I am an audio engineer and youtube enthusiast and RC Hobbyist DIY person. Your audio on all of your videos is INCREDIBLE. BUT - I don't see a "what I use list" etc . . and so I am quite curious as to your microphone and "arm" setup - meaning do you have a $ 500-800 "rifle style" cardioid RIGHT above your head - pointing right at your mouth JUST out of frame ? AND - what preamp do you use ? And just for grins are you going into Final Cut or Premiere direct - or Pro Tools and THEN into the editing platform post VO recording ? With or without effects processing ?
At the workbench I have a rode video micro on the overhead camera's boom arm. It goes direct into camera. I do effects in premiere: compressor, eq, and de esser.
I've been on the fence about a new set of goggles as the EV200D's that I have are only 2 years old and work fine. I remember when I got them that I was a little put off by the edge blurryness (is that a word?) but I've come to not see that over time. When a good FPV camera is used they're quite impressive as are most goggles. Before that I used the 800D's which I still have and use on the bench and for others to 'fly along'. I always found the immmersiveness of the box goggle to provide a good experience as far as 'being there'. My problem is do I want to dump $650 Canadian on the Sky O4X, or pick up a pair of these for a third the price but not look as 'cool'? For box gogs I need reading glasses (i'm 53), but if these accept them it's almost a no-brainer. ........EDIT........and then there's the whole DJI question...If you're spending that much money on analog, how many more pennies do you need to make the switch to digital?
I'm that guy. I'm the target demographic, for sure. Been using two EV800Ds for the past five years, coz that's my budget. They're both in need of replacing, so I decided to upgrade, and fired off an order. A new set of Cobra X V2s should arrive this week. I made this comment a year on from this review, and there was no other option, really. Glad Skyzone was still making them. The EV800Ds were getting long in the tooth for me. They'll make great ride-along units, tho' - still plenty of life in 'em for that.
About the battery life on single 18650 it is pretty bad... but I managed to make 3d printed holder for 21700 that fits right in and uses contacts and electronics from the original Cobra. I managed to get 1h7m runtime from LG 5000mAh cell on medium luminance in mix mode with no DVR. It's a bit heavier but not a major difference. With that runtime it's getting into a more comfortable range. Still battery warning is non-existent. It crapped out in less than a minute since any warning signs.
I’m far sided but I don’t wear my glasses when I fly and with a box goggle it doesn’t really affect me however with the normal goggles I can’t focus in it hurts my eyes so I’m definitely buying these so I can have rapidfire finally well kind of
Okay I follow your advice any day. Just bought a Mobula 6. Is the Skyzone Cobra X compatible with Mobula 6? Do I have to purchace extra Antennae or any extra kit to get it working? I am in Oz and can get a Cobra S if that is also as good? Thanks for your advice Joshua. I enjoy watching your you tubes a lot. If you have time for a quick reply to this it will be super appreciated. Peter
I bought the Cobra X cheaply as a really good spectater goggle. Maybe it will be my main setup for analog. I swapped recently my Eachine EV100 to a DJI Goggle with an wildfire analog module.
The Cobra X definitely has my attention. I’m still wearing my EV100’s, which I know you hate. I’m the guy who’s looking for the best reception and image for my dollar. I can’t pull a $400 goggle, but I can probably come up with $200. I worry about the fit a little. My first goggle was the included Emax box goggle with the Tinyhawk S kit. The Emax box goggle didn’t fit well, which is why I bought the EV100’s. The straps of the Emax box goggle wouldn’t adjust properly and the goggle would shift mid-flight. My EV100’s stay in place easily enough, but my eyes are a little too wide for the EV100’s and the reception and image are poor. I modified my EV100’s to use an external receiver. The Cobra X is very appealing to me. I wish I could try them on first.
I just upgraded from the Emax RTF goggles and it is night and day. The fit is great, the strap has a wide range of adjustments and the face pad is comfortable and secure. Only complaint is that they heat up significantly-comfortable to wear, but the top gets hot to the touch, and they are power hogs. They do not actually work with 18650’s, even a fully charged hi-cap 18650 lasts only minutes so you will need a battery pack. I’m running them off a usb battery bank and it works fine.
I love my cobra x to death! They really are slim as hell for box goggles and my god compaired to my old ev800d...well there is no comparison to me, worth...every...damn...penny
Great to hear, I just purchased some and will be receiving them tomorrow. Also coming from ev800d. I need to buy a battery for it as well as some better antennas. Any suggestions for battery and antennas?
@@look2christ777 Depending on what TX antenna you'll be flying (circular or polarised) I'd try out the Aomway patch or dual diamond. They work really great.
Thanks for the video! Box gogglers are people too! Still rocking my Headplay SE v2s although 1) they run on AV input from a RapidFire and 2) my DJI Goggles v2 are on pre-order...
If you won't or can't use Fatshark style googles, these could be the only quality choice. Particularly if you have eyesight outside the limits of the focusing adjustment that the latest generation of the slimline goggles all seem to have, since they no longer allow for prescription inserts. It's a really clever move from Skyzone to serve a section of the market that everyone else seems to be actively discouraging. Except Orca, but that's a lot more money!
There is no hdo3. That's supposed to be HDO2.
For a few seconds, i hoped it was accidental leak of a real HDO3 infos lol
@@dududu7694 maybe it was😜
Definitely glad that you weren’t dropping the bomb that HDO3 is coming.
Oh thank god, you gave me a little heart attack there. lol
Well damn.
I have been flying the Cobra X for about a month. Love them. You can plug your hdmi in from your laptop or pc and play Liftoff with them for more realism on the simulator.
omg...i didn't even think of that 🤯
Does the Goggles mirror whatever you play on laptop ie a film 🎥 aswell . Will it mirror whatever is playing?
@craniumjunglist8934 Yes it acts just like a monitor. Whatever is on your screen will show.
@@dbillett1 thanks 😊
The mention of compatibility for those of us who wear glasses is much appreciated! Being able to wear glasses with the goggles is another cost to save.
OMG YES
Haha! Yes! You must be a fellow astigmatism sufferer. The spherical diopter adjustments are no use to me. I need cylindrical diopters.
@@CF_Joel Nailed it! All costs included the Cobra X looks like a great option for me. Enough to put my order in already!
@@dwlld right there with ya! If I hadn't of bought the Fat Shark Scouts (which I love) just a few months ago, I'd definitely be ordering the Cobra X. Hope they work well for ya!
@@BoneBear I hate my scouts..... the lack of a module bay drives me batty! I have dji now..... I needed the clarity and the ability to wear glasses in a goggle.... but, im Thinking of picking up these cobras for my analog stuf
I love my Skyzone Cobra X and being able to wear my glasses with them.
Was it comfortable?
Doesnt it fog up, because there is no fan build in?
Hi Mr. Bardwell, I'm a noob to fpv and I had to reach out and let you know that I'm that guy out there! it was like you were talking directly to me . I have to watch some of the stuff accouple of time" cuz I'm getting a little older now " but you my good man are by far the easiest to comprehend and listen to, I thank you for that ! By the way, I spoke to Pam D. at get fpv this afternoon and as I was finishing up I let her know that I found them through your you tube channel and what a great guy I thought you are, she responded... " I already knew that!"
Thanks again and wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas. Jim from Oberlin Ohio.
I bought these shortly after they were released, and I couldn't be happier with them. Major selling points for me were the fact that they come with a replaceable module, and I'm able to wear my glasses with them. Prior to getting these, I was using cheap $50 box goggles, and couldn't wear my glasses with them which made reading an OSD very difficult. Now I can read the OSD without a problem. Image quality is great, and to improve the already decent reception, I went with a XILO AXII long range antenna as well as a Menace Periscope. So far, so good. I may look like an alien or bug with these 2 antennas sticking straight up so high, but function over fashion.
Not totally bad, but I can't believe almost no so called "reviewer" mentions the serious battery life issues Cobras have! These goggles only make about 15 minutes with the 18650 and what's worse, the power cuts off without warning. This is extremely dangerous! Before buying these everyone should be warned they will have hanging cables around their face as the power bank or the separate lipo is the only way to power these goggle. I am very disappointed about this unfortunately.
@@mipuist What capacity 18650 are you using that's providing that little of runtime? The one and only 18650 I have is a 3,400 mAh Li-ion, and it'll last over a hour per charge. In regards to it dying without warning, there are a couple ways to avoid that. The easiest way is to leave the goggle's OSD turned on (note: it may overlap your drone's OSD), and keep an eye on the battery meter. Once it turns from blue to yellow, I would recommend swapping out the battery to a fully charged one. That way it doesn't drain all the way and leave you crashing from a black out. The other "warning" to look for is a significant drop in signal quality/strength. The one time my 18650 died, I noticed a minute or 2 before it died that there was extra breakup in my video signal. I was still flying in the same area and at the same distance away, but the video quality was getting a little rough. I thought "huh, that's weird" but kept going. Bad idea, but I didn't know any better at the time. Now I would take that as a final warning if it were to happen again. Ultimately, I think the goggles work better/safer with a lipo pack plugged into the DC in port, but I know it may be an inconvenience to some because you'd have a battery cable hanging from the bottom of the goggles. I'm not exactly a fan of that either, but it's not too bad in practice. With that said, I would like to see a spot on the headstrap for placement of a standard lipo pack. Maybe that can be resolved by swapping the headstrap, or Skyzone can add that feature to the next generation of these goggles. Pretty sure there's a simple remedy for that issue.
@@drumstickscarecrow All my 18650s are 3000mAh li-ions, including brand new ones, performing without problem in other devices. Swapping battery once the gauge turns yellow would basically mean changing it after every 5 minute flight... The plastic battery holder is not of a great quality I'm afraid it would not survive more than few days anyway.
Can't believe you are getting times over hour. What is your firmware version? Tried to upgrade to the latest one but no change in the battery life.
I wonder whether Skyzone did not start producing in poorer quality. I am obviously not the only one complaining even here in comments. Even Joshua mentioned 30 min battery life at best under one comment here I think. There is also discussions on this topic about this on various forums (e.g.:
www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?3769075-Eachine-Skyzone-Goggles-Cobra-S-Cobra-X-FPV-Goggles-%2A%2A-USER-THREAD%2A%2A/page4)
@@mipuist Firmware on mine shows FW1: V1.3.3, FW2: V01.01.01.01, and HW: V1.2.3.4
@@drumstickscarecrow fw1: 1.3.6; fw1: 1.2.0.4; hw: 1.2.3.4 (eh) here. Maybe you should not update if you are getting such a great times, just for sure (or do it and let us know if it stays the same :)). I think they have added some simple "find my drone" functionality (using the patch antenna) and some battery warning beeps for 2-6S power sources, but I would definitely prefer some acceptable battery lifespan instead...
who wants a joshua bardwell bobble head?
I had suggested to Fpvfriends that they needed a Bardwell bobblehead. I already have a Botgrinder bobblehead. 😁
YES!
I would buy that in a snap :D
Josh Bardwell does and so would I but it has to have a lil built in audio board with "You're going to learn something today" and "Why are you still here?" hahaha
@@jlarson42 Where do you get the JB Bobbleheads?
I bought these on preorder and they are phenomenal I've been loving em
Doesnt it fog up, because there is no fan build in?
When you consider that the module alone sells for $85-$100, the price doesn't look that bad.
if they made a version without module ...
@@marc_frank I think it would only be around 50 dollars or so less.. Not sure tho
@@marc_frank Without the module and with IPS screen :O
Absolutely LOVE my Cobra's X!! Worth every penny💖 Thank you for such an amazing review!!! Went right out and purchased them after I seen this😁🙌
I'm glad to see work going into box goggles. My HDO2s are great, but my eyelashes hit the lenses. It's very annoying and gets the lenses dirty.
Just out of curiosity do your hdo2 ever have a distortion look to them I am using a caddx ratel with the hdo2 and it looks bad compared to my fs recons I always end up straining my eyes when using the hdo2 but have no issues with dji or fs recons any help is greatly appreciated thanks
Bought the X with one of your links! It will be my first pair! Thank you! (I have a high astigmatism and I figure that if I can’t see through binoculars, then I can’t see through adjustable spherical diopters, I need cylindrical diopters)
If you put a dark cloth on top of the Googles and behind the gopro the recording of the screen will be way better =), you can see the reflex of the gopro and the back of the room hehhee
I've had my Cobra X goggles for close to a month now and just waiting for winter to end so I can really use them and just got the Jumper T lite a couple days ago, I'm ready!
I've decided to go with the same gear set up. Jumper t-lite and the cobra x goggles.
@@brianfreland9065 very nice
As I'm just getting in to fpv these are ideal for someone like me. I don't want to be spending more than I need but I want decent image quality without having to spend extra on special lenses for short sightedness. All that's left is finding a good UK reseller that stocks them....
I bought Cobra X on preorder to replace EV800D. I have received them about 20 days ago and love them. Screen is nice, range is great (although I am still waiting for AXII antennas). They are very small for a box goggles, but I have no problem focusing on the screen even without the glasses. DVR is decent. On a single 18500 battery (Sony VTC6) I get about 50 minutes before they turn off, with a 12500 mah USB powerbank I get about 3h 30min. With a powerbank and internal 18650 I get 4+ hours of continuous use. There is a new FW on Skyzone site since Jan 30th, which gets a better voltage reading and warnings for 18650 batteries.
Does it put audio out ? Audio on dvr recordings?
@@rodeopilot7495 It records audio on DVR (but you can turn it off in DVR settings if you don't need it).
oh thanks for the info on not working without a battery in the bay, do you know if the dc input works without the battery?
@@TheMadmacs Hi, I made a few tests today, it looks like the problem with USB was with my powerbank. I tried both other powerbank and a 2S battery in DCIN and goggles work with them without 18650 in the bay. With USB you only have a USB indicator on the screen and don't know how much power is left in the powerbank (powerbank always provide 5V until its empty), and with 2S-6S battery via DCIN you have a voltage reading. If you have a 18650 in the bay and connect USB or DCIN, external battery will both power the goggles and charge the 18650 in the bay. It is a very good safety feature - even if you somehow disconnect DCIN or USB cable by accident while flying, the goggles will continue working with the 18650 in the bay.
Just picked up these goggles today after much research. So far very impressed going for 1st flight in basement with my new mobeetle6 also nice Pick. Thanks Joshua!
Just bought mine and love them .... OMG they are easy to use and well defined . I used them 2/3 times and I already look forward to next fpv session.
I just recieved a pair of Cobra S goggles and they are pretty good for the price, overall good purchase. But! Be aware that the Cobra S are 16:9 not 4:3! And I just found out that they won't boot if you are powering them from USB with less than 1.5 amps output.
I just watched this video. I then clicked on the Pryo drone link and ordered my very first pair of goggles. I'm also looking to buy a batteries that will give me more than ten minutes of flight time.
I bought the CL1Built and Tuned- FrSky XM + / along with the Taranis Q X7.
The drone and radio are just sitting on my shelf. All I need is batteries for them.
Thanks for your all your educational videos. I'll show my support by purchasing through your links and eventually sign up for the monthly.
If you bought the V2 like I did you’ll be good the 18650 last 1 hour! Mine get here today! Happy flying! 🚀
@@Fireonthesticks27 Awesome. Thanks for the battery info. So, those batteries can be used for the goggles, drone and the Taranis Q X7?
At the time of ordering I didn't know it was a difference in v1 and v2. But after ordering and reading the specs. I noticed that the one I ordered has a steadyview receiver. I already sent a email to Pryo drone to see if I brought the correct one.
I'm thinking rapid fire may not be in the one I ordered.
Excited.
Happy flying
@@digitalpituitary5226 yes I’m using a 2s Lipo the Qx7 and will be using an xt60 4S Lipo to power the goggles , you can also use the USB port with a power bank too
@@Fireonthesticks27 Thank you!
These are fabulous, , I'm one of those guys with glasses that really don't like regular goggles. These are perfect for me. And yes we are out here.
Thanks for the comment. I wonder if you've tried the fatshark Scout? I think they're really good but wondering about the HDMI input for possible SharkBite.
To be clear, the Fatshark Scout does not a have HDMI input.
The thing that ABSOLUTELY makes the cobras better than any other box goggle is the ability to take a module!!!!! Period! It blows my mind why it's taken this long to get a box goggle that has a module bay.
I bought these goggles based on your reviews. Glad I could help for all that you do for our community
Best outro yet.period.
gotta hand it to you man🤣🤣🤣
Should of tried the TBS Fusion in the Cobra X
Thissss
I am seriously considering this as my first (and probably only analog goggles). As I would love going full digital DJI (which are also kind of box goggles anyway right?) but am not ready to invest that much at the moment. So we are somewhere out there :D
Ive been using these for a few months and love them. Honestly Ive always preferred box goggles. Id say the only downside to these goggles is that they are power hungry.
Do you use Mix or Div mode?
Great review, as always. I have the X and I've them. Only 2 issues for me. Fogging! And yes, the fan was on it's highest setting. The fan doesn't blow air onto the lens so how can it remove the fogging? This could be a problem outdoors in my area since it's very humid during the summer. Secondly, I find the screen to be a bit too big. Perhaps I should remove the lens? It's like sitting in the first row at the movies. It would be great if a firmware update could have a feature where you can choose different screen sizes like on a computer monitor. Besides that, they are very good.
You can get anti fog spray for swim goggles. Give that stuff a try. I use it skiing and it works pretty good.
I quess i am person who bought them, they are just good upgrade from cheap box gogles, they cost 220$, so for 350 i can get attitude V6 and they will have worse reception so they will need 100$ for better module, so for these price i could just add some $ and get oleds, but then i could have just bought dji. I think they just have really good price to performance ratio.
I currently been flying the skyzone cobra s and so far I'm loving them. I think it was a smart move allowing extra space for glasses.
How big is the screen size inside? Bigger that the older Skyzones goggles?
@@Dronedudevideo Its 800×480 about the same size as the sky02 i believe.
Thank you for the video! This might possibly be exactly what I've been looking for.
Started flying this past summer on the cheapest things I could find. Goggles were one of the first things I wanted to upgrade BUT my glasses (and prices) have been a huge reason I haven't yet.
This might be it
The fxt viper v2 is probably about the only ones i can think of that are a competitor for these box goggles, they even use the same mirror design, the vipers are very comfortable for glasses. I'd love to see you compare the two
I bought them when they were $130... returned immediately due to distorted (badly curved) image. Very disappointing. Problem is the mirror curve - they use a flexible mirror popped into place and for a proper image would need to be glued to a form creating the correct curve at a minimum. Curved mirror optics is not new tech. With that fault they would fit in to the 80-100 price range better, imhp. By the way the update to v2 was simply a minor firmware change...
I mean a newbie wanting to get into digital and not dji this would be the best cheapest option imo. Great analog when you want it and able to run sharkbyte making it like $550 in all for sharkbyte. Would definitely be a consideration if i wasnt already invested in analog so deep
I took the nose foam out and it fits a lot better but I still get a little light leak around the sides where the rectangle foam goes. Pretty comfortable though.
The dislikes are all of the other box goggles on the market lol
Love all the videos .. I don't think I've ever learned so much in my life
New to the hobby and these are very helpful and awesome comparisons and reviews.
Yep, this is the review I was waiting on, I am that person that is looking for this set of box goggles, I was working on making something similar modifying a set of EV800's to accept a Fusion or Rapidfire module however, with the better screen and feature set these goggles offer, It's a no brainer. Now that they have the JB stamp of approval I feel that much more confident laying out my $220 for these.
Congrats on 200k Joshua!
Thank you for review, I think it's going to be my first fpv goggles
"of course they come with a head strap, I just took it off"
I just imagine Bardwell standing against a wall or a sign or something holding them on while flying lol
Haha!!
:'D
Facing a wall and applying pressure to keep the gogs on the face.
Did I read that right!? 12 minutes in , during the comparison it said HDO3? I didn’t know they had an HDO3😵🤯
Same
JB made an oopsie. 😁
I think he means HD3
@@Aar0n2009 no, he clearly said about oled screen, hd3 got lcd. so 2 options: he mistook hdo2 (which would be strange, as he really fly a lot with those ;) ) or he got new Fatties in test, same as he got DJI v2 from longer time already.
Nice slip of the tongue JB!
I wish there were more "transformer" style box goggles, with the removable screens.
It makes a great first-time purchase, since you can later use it as a standalone monitor for a friend, after you upgrade.
Fxt viper.
The only shortcoming i have found with these goggles is that the 18650 only lasts about 30 minutes. This suggests that the goggles are drawing about 6 amps at these voltages (i can only assume they are using a very inefficient voltage regulator to step up the voltage because with a 5v input they draw about 1.5amps ).
30 mins sounds awful. The ev800d last about 2 hours give or take and even then that is no good. What is a better way to power these?
@@look2christ777 I use a 3s 850 mah lipo through the DC in and get about 1 and a 1/4 hours. 2 x 18650's will probably get you about 2 hours or more. My EV800D's only last about an hour.
@@michaelbibby8636 yeah, youre right about the ev800d, an hour is more accurate. Maybe 1 hour 10 mins tops. I wonder how long a 2s 3000mah lipo would give.
@@look2christ777 The current consumption at 5 volts is about 1.5 amps so that would be about 2 hours, maybe more.
I should also point out that in my testing the 18650 lasted about 3 hours when I was using the goggles with a simulator through the AV input, so clearly the RF module is very power hungry.
30 minutes is from the world of dreams. I get 15 minutes, maybe 20 if I turn off the rapid mix, DVR, fan and keep the display light on low. Worse is the power just cuts off without warning.
Performance on an 18650 battery has lots of room for improvement in my experience. They work well on an external USB or lipo pack
Also I used to need reading goglasses in my old goggles. No need in these ones, even though the easily fit, but with the lense/mirrior set-up in these. No longer need my reading glasses. Extra bonus 😊👍
Just got the v4 today. Cant wait!
Leaked HDO3!?!?! 😁
I bought these based on your review and used your affiliate link. Thank you
Joshua, if you put some reading glasses lens in front of the gopro you will see a clear image of the googles, right now the menus look out of focus, is because the go pro cant see that close. i dont know if with +2 or +3 you can get the image to look crisp.
I wish you had an affiliate link for Skyzone. It seems none of the retailers have the Cobra X V2 with the New Fusion V3.3 Board for the Steadyview/RapidMix Module. This is Skyzone's solution for the major issue you addressed briefly in this video. Skyzone is shipping this product with the updated hardware, so I have to go with them.
My skyzone SJ-01 1280x800 box goggles rock and the internal diversity RX is very good too.
They were pretty much the most expensive boggles around when I bought them but I've had them several years now and I like the 72 degree fov and the 7" screen so much, I have no intention on replacing them especially when they have HDMI in , can display 720p in full quality and downscale 1080p to just over 720 res.
I’m me - definitely getting these 👍
Thanks for making and sharing mate 🙏
good review jb i have it (s) already and like it alot the dvr is also good anly dispinting is no save rf channels also on build quality i have dropped in a stream and took it apart for draining and cleaning and it works again the way it engineering on the inside is impressive
Thank you! I AM "you"....I need the absolute best resolution and range for 200-250. Thanks for the help! Love your vids! They're a great help to me since I'm new to the hobby and buying my first sets of gear
I bought those goggles from Paweł (you know who he is :) ). I was honestly looking for a replacement for my Fatshark HD (the first gen) which I have fitted with the RapidFIRE receiver and (surprise surprise) a replacement for EV800 (not D!) - because the receiver on both is in par when it comes to sensitivity which is absolutely crucial on long range flights that I do. I also have an RC car that has a 2-axis gimbal, and I was trying to fit the EV800 with some sort of head tracker which in the end proved to be a disaster. That's the only reason the Fatsharks were still with me - because of the great head tracker. With the Dominators the DVR is just junk. The EV800 don't have one, but one could be "integrated" manually (which I did).
Now with the Cobra X I have a pair of goggles that fit my head (dominators have just too blurry edges for me), have a fantastic field of view (but smaller than the EV800), a selectable screen ratio (something that's missing on the EV800), a DVR that doesn't suck, a head tracker that just works and setting it up was not a pain in the butt like it was with the Fatsharks and, on top of it, they have a receiver that is just awesome and works great on long range flights.
Believe it or not there is absolutely nothing I can complain about those goggles which is definitely not the case with super expensive Dominators or budget EV800. Btw, the EV800D's DVR is a total disaster. It stops recording when the signal is lost. It even sometimes won't resume after the signal is re-acquired! Total garbage for situations where you know your signal is going to break up from time to time.
I have found my perfect goggles and in the unlikely case they would break I will but another pair of those - just because they are AWESOME!
Used the link and just copped a pair! 😁
I loved my ec800D's
Moved up to HD2 with the huge FOV
Still wanted more. Excited to see how good they are!!
I bought the cobra X because I wanted goggles that I could wear my glasses in. I love the goggles, huge upgrade over the eachine ev800d that I used before.
Busting to find out- DO THEY HAVE A FAN???
Thanks in advance! ;)
i can't wait for mine to arrive, my ev800d's have served me well, i even like the og antennae, but i find myself looking for more detail. i hope the cobras do the trick.
@@bleeksbentbits3150 they do!
I have a eyes issue so I'm using only right eye. I don't wanna buy classic fatshark because I will not use left screen ever. That googles is for me ! Thanks for review - help me a lot.
I currently have the Eachine EV800D. Think I will be upgrading to the Cobra X.
Thank you for your detailed review.
How do you like the 800? Am considering that option. Thanks
I got the cobra x recently and it's my first fpv Google. I really like the image quality and multiple options to power up the unit along with the dvr recording and hdmi support. However I do feel the cobra x to be a bit heavy and uncomfortable at the nose section. I used the nose foam pad and it made it worst. But other than that I am happy using it 👍
Do you experience the sidescrolling image issue that was mentioned?
Thinking of getting these but can't seem to find an answer on if this has been fixed
@@jacobhobday111 yes I've experienced it a few times but after power cycling the drone and goggles it was back to normal. I have v2 of the goggles..the new updated video receiver module should be better
Thanks for the quick reply, so they haven't patched this in a firmware update?
Would you still recommend getting these over the fatshark scouts or hawkeye little pilot v2?
Or should I just invest in the cobras and get a new receiver to fix the rolling image?
(i did see that if you change the receiver setting to something other than diversity it fixes it, not sure if that's the case though).
Sorry I'm new to the hobby just don't want to get the cobras if the rolling image thing happens often.
@@jacobhobday111 so far i haven't had any major issue with my cobra x and i am satisfied with it. I would suggest get the cobra x because it has DVR, head tracker built-in, cooling fan, av input, and 3 way power supply options...so it's feature loaded unlike other box goggles.
@@RakishRc thanks for the help, correcting my earlier reply you should be able to get around the rolling image by changing from mix to diversity, personally I'm not too fussed about using mix so the rolling image shouldn't be a problem for me.
Lol I think I'm the only person in fpv that buys ev800d's 1 1/2 years after starting. But I really like em and the fov for me is a necessity. I can't handle the small screens. But I seriously hate the form factor of box goggles. It's a love / hate relationship.
I prefer box goggles-- analogue--- whoops.... it’s just amazing what this stuff is capable of.
@@whoopsquad First person I thought of when I started watching this video.
@@daddy_loves_quads135 - I just got the Fatshark Recon for $80 and couldn’t be happier😂 I mean, I DO want the Skyzone, but ..... I also want to build a bigger quad!
I honestly don't know why they make the FoV on dominators and other expensive goggles this small. It's like watching a computer screen from 3 meters. You can't see anything and the strain on the eyes is really big. Once the screen is bigger the edges become so blurry you can't possibly read the OSD (which is usually on the edges).
I have some cobra x v2 goggles and I don't even where glasses. I do however wear contacts but that's neither here nor there. I like the emersion of box goggles a little better despite the extra bulk and the resolution with the bigger screen compared to slimmer fatsharks really matters to me flying long range. The price point for the features it has are great and I plan to plug in the upcoming HD zero digi conversion to take it up another level. After the smoke clears with everything included in the section of my rig, still less than DJI goggles and DJI goggles are so big as is that they might as well be box goggles anyway. I'm not racing competitively, just slapping freestyle gaps and flying long range too so the cobra x goggles are more than enough. I highly recommend to anybody getting into the hobby that care about higher end quality for a good price (compared to ALL goggles, not just box goggles)
Stoked to see these. Great review. J.B.
Pre ordered mine... This will be my beginner goggles !!
I like using box goggles sometimes. I still have some quantum v2’s that I use with either an, immersion R/C 2.4ghz RX, a TBS 2.4ghz RX, or I can just connect it to my TBS ground station when I flying some of my larger quads long range. They feel a lot less claustrophobic than fat shark style glasses.
Thank you! I should try this product. Fatshark-style goggles are just too narrow for my head and IPD. Box goggles with decent image quality and hdmi for shark byte may be a solution
I'm way too late on this video, but I am super excited to see this product. I just wonder if by now, (March, 2022) there is a box goggle which improves on this model?!
I don't know? Seems a lot like the Fatshark scouts? I run them, and they're awesome
A lot better receiver
The receiver on the Fatshark Scouts is worse than the receiver on the Eachine EV800D's. The receiver on the Cobra X's is significantly better than on the EV800D's.
I love my Fatshark Scout goggles. They're great.
@NoHandleFPV Here's the thing: comparing scouts to cobras is not really comparing apples with apples. If you only want to compare the image quality and the comfort of wearing them then yes, they are comparable. But man... the cobras offer sooo much more! A really good receiver, a head tracker, dual-power option, DVR that doesn't suck and OSD that is a pleasure to use.
Well, I'm not going to lie, in the last couple of days since I watched this video, I've become pretty interested in trying the cobras.
Hey Joshua, I bought these Cobra X goggles and subsequently smashed the camera on my Tinyhawk II Freestyle. When looking at the camera replacements I saw that that the stock camera had 700TVL and the replacement has 1200TVL, so I thought awesome... twice as good resolution! Not so fast though. I then read that analog vTX only broadcasts at 640 X 480 max anyway. So why did I buy a goggle that has twice the resolution if I cant use that resolution anyway?
Do you have any videos that cover all the finer points of resolution from camera to screen? I know analog is on it's way out but some of us are still here and this subject is complex. I need to learn something today!!
i am a Boxgoggleguy too. after the ev800d i tried to use a pair skyzones but never was habby with the FOV. That i exact the product i was looking for.
There is the possibility of adding a Shark Byte module on it and turning it into a digital goggle. It looks like a great option. I have an EV800D and I think to buy it. Way to Go! Salute from Brazil.
@ Joshua Bardwell
So I'm kinda behind in understanding of the technical terms when you or others may be talking about different accessories that are used for drones or radio controllers.
In your video I thought you meant that the Cobra X had rapid fire.
It turns out that the one I purchased has steadyview and the other Cobra X has rapid mix.
I wrote pyro about the rapid fire.
They wrote back, that these goggles definitely do not come with a Rapidfire module.
That module itself is $150, nearly 75% of the cost of the goggles themselves.
They said that you -
was likely alluding to is that these goggles will allow you to plug in a Rapidfire module, unlike past Skyzone box goggles.
So now that pyrodrone specified that rapid fire isn't included. (That's exactly what they wrote).
I'm not sure which is a better buy between the steadyview receiver or the rapid mix receiver. Even though the goggles are on it's way to me with the steadyview version. receiver.
Steadyview is very good and almost as good as rapidfire. In the video I am saying that this is the first box goggle you could theoretically plug rapidfire into if you had one. Not that it comes with rapidfire.
@@JoshuaBardwell Okay. Thanks for the insight.
That lens inside (and the angled mirror) look exactly as Fatshark Scout I have. Wondering, how do they compare. Also, Scout is powered by single cell battert,
I've been waiting for this review, thank you JB great review!
Mine arrived the other day and I have some thoughts. First...when heard about these several weeks ago I was pumped and knew that I was the guy (market) these were made for...why? 1) I'm not ready to pay $400-700 for goggles that I don't know if I'll like, but damn it! I want better pic quality and range! 2) I'm not ready to pay $400-700 for goggles when I'm still learning and flying fields, small parks, and my backyard. 3) I wear glasses and have astigmatisms and without testing fatsharks or DJIs before buying it would be a huge gamble to drop $400-700 on something that might not work for me. 4) I think this goggle hits the sweet spot where someone like myself can get into digital at some point down the road via Shark Byte and that conversion feels like (likely is) value.
That said, i have had a couple of issues and currently have tickets in with RDQ and Skyzone. First, the charging circuit wasn't working for my 18650 battery. The manual talks about this issue but its very poorly translated, despite the fact, the solution they offer didn't work. I charged the battery separately and installed it which seems to have resolved the charging circuit issue...but there is more. Next, i wanted to try the alternate power option, 4s/6s via the barrel plug. When I went to insert the barrel plug I made sparks! after that, no more power from 4s/6s UNLESS the 18650 was installed. I have asked Skyzone if this is by design, waiting for a response. Side note, the charging circuit works with an external DC power supply like the 4s/6s. Note 2, insert barrel plug FIRST, then plug in 4s/6s! That should be added to the manual and I plan to suggest this to Skyzone.
For other box gogglers like myself, I can tell you that the images and review pics don't really do justice to the size. I have a pair of Emax Transporters that were my first goggle and the CobraX is almost the same size....which I love.
I will follow up on this post when I hear back from Skyzone on the issues I'm having, but from the couple flights i have used them, they are everything I wanted without the insane price tag!
i have bad astigmatism myself, i can comfortably wear my glasses with the dji goggles. i started with fpv just in august, so glad i jumped head first with them.
so if in the future you think about upgrading glasses are not a limiting factor. and with the digiadapter you don't need to convert the quad(s) you already own
I'm waiting for mine to arrive. I went from Quanum cyclops Diversity to Fatshark HD2 Terminator editions. Now I want to go back to box goggles. The small screens, just are not worth the price you pay for fatshark goggles.
Bardwell didn't talk about the fact that these goggles use the same module system as Fatshark, so if you like your CrossFire or whatever, well you can use it with these.
Yes what ever power source the goggle takes first is what it says on i've notice too. But the battery doesn't last long even if you charge it outside the goggle so I just use a external battery and keep a few 18650 on hand for when I'm in a pinch. But coming from the FS Scout to the Cobra X I love them. My Skyzone 02X aren't bad either as back up.
I'm new and bought these. I'm gonna go DJI, but don't wanna smash up vistas or air units (I've killed an ESC and 2 FCs already) on my learner kwads, but I still wanna see well enough to even try hit the gaps(why I'm breaking kwads) and the BetaFPV VR01s that came with my advanced kit 2 just don't cut it.
Vistas and air units are extremely durable. Way more durable than any other piece of FPV equipment. They aren't 100% indestructible but they're very strong.
@@JoshuaBardwell Fair enough. Thanks for making my decision seem questionable on a product you said was the best "period". LOL j/k I'm quite certain I'll be happy when they arrive.
I'm one of the people these are designed for. Essentially for being able to wear eyeglasses (I'm 60 and use reading glasses, and MANY goggles do not focus without buying expensive-ish custom lenses), and, it doesn't hurt to get a near-Rapidfire receiver for free (and be able to swap it out (unlike the Scouts)). Plus it's a really good image for $230. Plus there's the HDMI-in for a possible Shark Byte future. Plus, I didn't want to spend much more than this for an analog goggle, figuring my next goggle is going to be digital, and still wanting to have an analog goggle laying around for tiny whoops, etc, without it being $400/$500 worth of analog goggle "laying around".
Just got mine and boy do I wish they had just gone for a regular old fresnel lens instead of those split lenses.
Contrary to what Bardwell is saying there is no problem at all focusing on the screen of a normal boxed goggle because the lens makes it equivalent in both vergance and accomodation to a larger screen at a further distance. This split lens system means that unlike with a large single lens both eyes get an offset image meaning that you have to focus on something that appears to be at a different distance in terms of perspective than in terms of focus.
not a deal breaker necessarily but it sure ruins the comfortable relaxed viewing of normal boxed goggles a quite bit. I was kinda expecting there was some optical trick involved to fix this issues like maybe having the lenses be tilted relative to each other or something but that does not appear to be the case.
the lens appears replaceable so maybe one can find a fresnel lens of just the right focal lenght and make a mod...
Many normal box goggles don't have a fresnel lens. That's why it's hard to focus.
@@JoshuaBardwell Interesting! Havent seen a single one that doesn't have one can you point to an example? Do they just use a huge monolithic lense instead?
I agree. I wish the plano lens was continuous. The center flat prevents me from seeing both sides clearly. I have to close one eye to make out text from the OSD. Bummer! My $25 old Quanum goggles have a beutiful continuous plano lense the works great. I just wish they had I hi res display.
I am an audio engineer and youtube enthusiast and RC Hobbyist DIY person.
Your audio on all of your videos is INCREDIBLE. BUT - I don't see a "what I use list" etc . .
and so I am quite curious as to your microphone and "arm" setup - meaning do you have a $ 500-800 "rifle style" cardioid RIGHT above your head - pointing right at your mouth JUST out of frame ? AND - what preamp do you use ? And just for grins are you going into Final Cut or Premiere direct - or Pro Tools and THEN into the editing platform post VO recording ? With or without effects processing ?
At the workbench I have a rode video micro on the overhead camera's boom arm. It goes direct into camera. I do effects in premiere: compressor, eq, and de esser.
I've not long had my Cobra X , And gave to say they are my go to goggles now .. My Eachine and Fatsharks don't get a look in now .
I've been on the fence about a new set of goggles as the EV200D's that I have are only 2 years old and work fine. I remember when I got them that I was a little put off by the edge blurryness (is that a word?) but I've come to not see that over time. When a good FPV camera is used they're quite impressive as are most goggles. Before that I used the 800D's which I still have and use on the bench and for others to 'fly along'. I always found the immmersiveness of the box goggle to provide a good experience as far as 'being there'. My problem is do I want to dump $650 Canadian on the Sky O4X, or pick up a pair of these for a third the price but not look as 'cool'? For box gogs I need reading glasses (i'm 53), but if these accept them it's almost a no-brainer. ........EDIT........and then there's the whole DJI question...If you're spending that much money on analog, how many more pennies do you need to make the switch to digital?
I'm that guy. I'm the target demographic, for sure. Been using two EV800Ds for the past five years, coz that's my budget. They're both in need of replacing, so I decided to upgrade, and fired off an order. A new set of Cobra X V2s should arrive this week. I made this comment a year on from this review, and there was no other option, really. Glad Skyzone was still making them. The EV800Ds were getting long in the tooth for me. They'll make great ride-along units, tho' - still plenty of life in 'em for that.
About the battery life on single 18650 it is pretty bad... but I managed to make 3d printed holder for 21700 that fits right in and uses contacts and electronics from the original Cobra. I managed to get 1h7m runtime from LG 5000mAh cell on medium luminance in mix mode with no DVR. It's a bit heavier but not a major difference. With that runtime it's getting into a more comfortable range. Still battery warning is non-existent. It crapped out in less than a minute since any warning signs.
Exactly what I was looking for 100%. Hoping the goggle will pair with the TinyGO transmitter
Joshua I’m one of those guys. Box goggles for life. Need to save for some of those. :)
Same with me. Hate the tiny screen on binocular goggle
Congratulations on 200k
I’m far sided but I don’t wear my glasses when I fly and with a box goggle it doesn’t really affect me however with the normal goggles I can’t focus in it hurts my eyes so I’m definitely buying these so I can have rapidfire finally well kind of
Me. I'm looking for a performance box goggle. THIS is the box goggle I've been waiting for.
Okay I follow your advice any day.
Just bought a Mobula 6.
Is the Skyzone Cobra X compatible with Mobula 6?
Do I have to purchace extra Antennae or any extra kit to get it working?
I am in Oz and can get a Cobra S if that is also as good?
Thanks for your advice Joshua.
I enjoy watching your you tubes a lot.
If you have time for a quick reply to this it will be super appreciated.
Peter
Any 5.8 Ghz analog goggle will work with any analog quad. No special antenna's needed.
just bought them, waiting for mail now :)
I bought the Cobra X cheaply as a really good spectater goggle. Maybe it will be my main setup for analog. I swapped recently my Eachine EV100 to a DJI Goggle with an wildfire analog module.
Could you do a video.about using sharkbyte on the cobra x?
It's twice as heavy as my Command but otherwise not bad so far. I'm looking forward to the first flight tomorrow.
The Cobra X definitely has my attention.
I’m still wearing my EV100’s, which I know you hate. I’m the guy who’s looking for the best reception and image for my dollar. I can’t pull a $400 goggle, but I can probably come up with $200.
I worry about the fit a little. My first goggle was the included Emax box goggle with the Tinyhawk S kit. The Emax box goggle didn’t fit well, which is why I bought the EV100’s. The straps of the Emax box goggle wouldn’t adjust properly and the goggle would shift mid-flight. My EV100’s stay in place easily enough, but my eyes are a little too wide for the EV100’s and the reception and image are poor. I modified my EV100’s to use an external receiver.
The Cobra X is very appealing to me. I wish I could try them on first.
I just upgraded from the Emax RTF goggles and it is night and day. The fit is great, the strap has a wide range of adjustments and the face pad is comfortable and secure. Only complaint is that they heat up significantly-comfortable to wear, but the top gets hot to the touch, and they are power hogs. They do not actually work with 18650’s, even a fully charged hi-cap 18650 lasts only minutes so you will need a battery pack. I’m running them off a usb battery bank and it works fine.
pulling those heart strings at the end there huh Mr. Bardwell... lol. id do the samething. hahaha nice job buddy keep up the awesome vids
I love my cobra x to death! They really are slim as hell for box goggles and my god compaired to my old ev800d...well there is no comparison to me, worth...every...damn...penny
Yep, those must be great. I love my Fatshark Scouts and those Cobra-x goggles are even better.
@@sganzerlag also wanna try shark byte on them, super cheap hd set up
Great to hear, I just purchased some and will be receiving them tomorrow. Also coming from ev800d. I need to buy a battery for it as well as some better antennas. Any suggestions for battery and antennas?
I’m currently on the dv800s and your comment has helped me decide 👍😎🤝
@@look2christ777 Depending on what TX antenna you'll be flying (circular or polarised) I'd try out the Aomway patch or dual diamond. They work really great.
I live the box life. I’ll use your link when I eventually upgrade from my FS Transformers
Had me worried then, ive only just brought the hdo2's
Thanks for the video! Box gogglers are people too! Still rocking my Headplay SE v2s although 1) they run on AV input from a RapidFire and 2) my DJI Goggles v2 are on pre-order...
If you won't or can't use Fatshark style googles, these could be the only quality choice. Particularly if you have eyesight outside the limits of the focusing adjustment that the latest generation of the slimline goggles all seem to have, since they no longer allow for prescription inserts. It's a really clever move from Skyzone to serve a section of the market that everyone else seems to be actively discouraging. Except Orca, but that's a lot more money!