The SKY04X PRO is the upgraded model of the SKY04X V1/V2, enhancing the immersive FPV expertise with new optics and OLED panels. Boasting a wider 52° subject of view and 100fps shows, it helps sure digital system in low latency mode. Can Skyzone really compete in an period more and more dominated by digital FPV techniques with these new analog goggles? This evaluate dives into its options and efficiency to see if Skyzone stays a contender.
The Skyzone SKY04X Professional helps each conventional analog FPV system and digital setups like Walksnail and HDZero. In case you’re exploring FPV techniques or goggles for the primary time, I’ve acquired complete guides that can assist you make an knowledgeable alternative.
The place to Purchase?
You could find the SKY04X Professional on the following retailers:
Included with the goggles are the next equipment.
It comes with two faceplates to go well with completely different face shapes.
There are additionally two kinds of foam pads for optimum consolation.
Specs
- Display: OLED
- Decision: 1920×1080
- Side Ratio: 4:3 / 16:9
- FOV (Diagonal): 52°
- Focus Vary: -2 to +6 diopters
- IPD Vary: 58-71mm
- Receiver: 5.8GHz SteadyView V3.3
- DVR: H.264 60fps, AVI
- Voltage Enter: 2S-6S Lipo
- HDMI IN: 1080p 60fps / 720p 100FPS
- Head Tracker: 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis gyroscope
- Dimensions: 185x75x67mm
- Weight: 267g
The unique Sky04X V1/V2 had lengthy been thought of the most effective analog FPV goggles, competing head-to-head with manufacturers like Orqa and Fatshark. The SKY04X Professional builds on this legacy with updates that improve compatibility with fashionable digital FPV techniques.
Let’s evaluate the specs of the SKY04X Professional to the SKY04X V2 and SKY04L.
| Specs | SKY040 | SKY04X V2 | SKY04X PRO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | OLED | ||
| Decision | 1024×768 | 1280×960 | 1920×1080 |
| Max Discipline of View | 38° | 46° | 52° |
| Side Ratio | 16:9 / 4:3 | ||
| Focus Vary | -2~+6 | ||
| IPD Vary | 58~71mm | ||
| Receiver | Steadyview V3.3 | ||
| DVR | 60FPS H.264 | ||
| Voltage Enter | 2~6S LiPo | ||
| HDMI IN | 60FPS | 60FPS | 720P 100FPS |
| Head Tracker | 3-axis Accelerometer, 3-axis gyroscope | ||
Design and Construct High quality
At first look, the SKY04X Professional could seem similar to its predecessor, but it introduces a matte end that each prevents fingerprints and reduces glare. This refinement is in step with Skyzone’s dedication to high-quality building and design, making certain the goggles not solely look good but additionally really feel comfy throughout extended use.
Accommodating the vast majority of customers, the inclusion of two faceplates permits for a tailor-made match throughout numerous face sizes and styles. The diopter and IPD changes can be found, catering successfully to the vast majority of customers.
In distinction to Orqa and Fatshark goggles, the Skyzone SKY04X Professional is supplied with a receiver module (SteadyView V3.3) and primary antennas, providing first rate financial savings. Whereas this module perhaps not fairly on par with top-tier modules like Rapidfire or TBS Fusion, it proves greater than succesful for the common person. The analog DVR now data at 60fps, marking a notable enchancment from the V1’s 30fps.
In case you’ve seen my evaluate of the unique SKY04X goggles, you’ll recall they had been my most popular alternative for analog FPV goggles: https://oscarliang.com/skyzone-sky04x/
So what are the variations from earlier model?
Screens
The Sky04X Professional options 1080p OLED panels with a refresh fee of 100fps, presenting a notable enhancement over its predecessors and even providing a slight benefit over the HDZero Goggle‘s 90fps. Along with 720p 100fps HDMI enter, these goggles guarantee compatibility with excessive body fee techniques, reminiscent of Walksnail’s 100fps low latency mode.
Discipline of View
The Professional boasts a 1920×1080 decision, 52° FOV with a local 16:9 facet ratio, a considerable improve from the earlier model’s 1280×960 display screen and 46° FOV with a local 4:3 facet ratio. Though each fashions are switchable between 4:3 and 16:9, the Professional model’s bigger FOV in 16:9 enhances the immersive expertise, notably with widescreen digital video receivers.
How huge is 52-degree FOV in comparison with different goggles? Examine it utilizing this software: https://oscarliang.com/js/fpvgogglefov.html
Energy Button
A notable addition is the on/off energy button on the aspect, simplifying the method of turning the goggles on and off with a protracted press, whereas a brief press turns the fan on and off.
Cooling Fan
As a result of upgraded shows which generate extra warmth, they’ve added a cooling fan to the bay in the proper. Which means you now not can use two receiver modules like earlier SKY04X.
Show and Person Expertise
The OLED shows ship photos with putting distinction and vibrant colours, considerably enhancing visible readability over conventional LCD or LCOS shows. Furthermore, the native 16:9 facet ratio is a considerate change, aligning properly with the widescreen desire of Walksnail FPV techniques.
The standout function of the Sky04X Professional is undoubtedly its 52° FOV. Nevertheless some customers would possibly discover blurry edges, which makes it onerous to learn the OSD/textual content on the corners. Nevertheless, when flying analog, notably with 4:3 cameras, choosing 4:3 within the goggles successfully reduces the FOV right down to round 46° (with either side minimize off), addresses the problem of blurry corners for me. If you choose 16:9 within the goggles when utilizing 4:3 cameras, your picture will seem stretched and distorted, which is usually undesirable. For Walksnail cameras with a local 16:9 facet ratio, selecting 16:9 within the goggles is advisable.
Total, the SKY04X Professional’s controls and structure are designed for ease of use, that includes an intuitive on-screen menu system that enhances the person expertise.
Compatibility with Walksnail and HDZero
Regardless of being analog goggles, the SKY04X Professional gives help for each Walksnail and HDZero techniques.
Connecting to a Walksnail exterior video receiver, the goggles can function within the 100Hz low latency mode. Nevertheless, it’s not with out its limitations, particularly when used with HDZero’s lowest latency mode, as it may solely obtain a 60Hz output. For these trying to the complete HDZero’s 90Hz expertise, this can be a downside and chances are you’ll take into account getting the HDZero goggles.
A further level to think about is the potential for added latency when utilizing these digital techniques via the HDMI enter. Whereas it’s a minor concern, it’s value noting for many who prioritize split-second responsiveness of their flights.
My latency checks, utilizing a GoPro 12 at 240fps, confirmed minimal variations between the SKY04X PRO and different high-end analog goggles when utilizing these digital techniques. For freestyle flying and informal use, I discovered the latency completely acceptable.
Limitations
One notable change within the SKY04X Professional is the removing of “quadversity,” a function some could miss. It is because you possibly can’t use two Steadyview receivers concurrently as one module bay is now devoted to cooling the shows.
The precise IPD adjustment measured about 60mm to 70mm, barely narrower than marketed. This may be one thing to think about for these with IPDs exterior this vary.
Giant subject of view can introduce blurry edges and corners for some individuals. An possibility to regulate zoom can be good, a function that’s already accessible on the DJI Goggles 2.
The included primary dipole antennas are ample for short-range flights however go away room for enchancment. For optimum efficiency, notably for penetration and longer ranges, upgrading your antennas is advisable. I counsel a mixture of a directional antenna, like a patch antenna, and an omni-directional antenna, reminiscent of a right-hand round polarized antenna, for optimum protection. For prime suggestions on FPV antennas, try my information: https://oscarliang.com/best-fpv-antenna/#The-Finest-FPV-Antennas-for-FPV-Drones
Compatibility with third Celebration Receivers
For these in search of the best possible in receiver efficiency, you possibly can improve the included Steadyview module to the ImmersionRC Rapidfire or TBS Fusion by swapping out the module.
One caveat: this would possibly require a 3D printed cowl to your chosen module. In my case, I needed to print a customized cowl for the Rapidfire for the reason that unique covers weren’t appropriate.
Ultimate Verdict: Is the SKY04X Professional for You?
The SKY04X PRO is primarily designed for pilots who’re predominantly flying analog. Nevertheless, its enhanced compatibility makes it a sexy possibility for many who often enterprise into digital realms with techniques like Walksnail and HDZero.
At $599.99, the Sky04X Professional is competitively priced, particularly when in comparison with the HDZero goggles, that are on the similar price ticket. Nevertheless, it’s vital to issue within the extra prices for many who want to run analog techniques with HDZero Goggles, which might add as much as an additional $150 or extra for an analog receiver module and antennas.
Get your SKY04X Professional from these distributors:
All of it comes right down to what your essential focus is. For these flying largely analog, the SKY04X Professional is a compelling alternative. For these largely fly HDZero, the HDZero Goggles are the way in which to go. For these largely fly Walksnail, Walksnail Avatar Goggles X is your most suitable option.
The fantastic thing about the present FPV market is its flexibility. Even in case you change your thoughts, you possibly can hold utilizing no matter goggles you obtain with a special FPV system, and proceed flying. All these goggles talked about are very versatile.