The GT-R349 is the 3" variant in Diatone's latest design of quadcopters that builds on the R90 series. Supposedly the R stood for Rabbit but Diatone most likely dropped this as it sounds a little silly!

Typically Diatone will produce a core body/electronics design and then assemble it with different motors and frame sizes to create a range of quads. The model naming doesn't make much sense to me (especially when you compare to the M series) but anyway here is what I believe them to be:

• R239 = 2" with prop guards
• R249 = 2"
• R249+ = 2.5"
• R349 = 3

What's new for this year is the HD options which kit the quads out with the RunCam Split. For these models they add HD to the end of the model name. For the first time we also get the option to ditch the Unify Pro and choose a cheaper RunCam VTX.

This might be great for people looking to save some money but one of the highlights of the Diatone series is was the class-leading VTX included for a great price.

The model we are reviewing is the standard R349 with the RunCam TX200U. Luckily the VTX despite not being a Unify still features smart audio so it isn't too much of a downgrade unless you are looking to go long range. If you are then I would suggest getting the version with the 800mw Unify.

Where to Buy?

Diatone GTR349 3INCH PNP Quadcopter

The R series features an all-new design with an injection moulded (feels like Nylon) canopy. Unique moulded plastic parts normally are a cause for concern on quads as they break easily and are tough to replace. I'm pleased to report that the canopy on this one is thick, strong and so far has appeared unbreakable.

The canopy holds your choice of camera. Ours had the RunCam Micro Swift which is an excellent CCD camera, I was pleased to see that they didn't replace it with a cheap copy. As a bonus, it seems they are getting them in a unique green colour scheme.

The main electronics are Diatone's own Mini Mamba Stack which comprises of an F4 based FC and a 25amp Dshot 600 capable ESC. The components have been slightly tweaked with an extra capacitor but essentially this is the same proven electronics Diatone have been using for the last year or so.

Like the FC the motors are special Diatone branded Mamba motors. They are a 1408 size wound at 4000kv and have a high-quality look and feel to them. In the past Diatone has gone overboard with kV and produced some models that are fast but not great on the lower end or on the battery. This kv on a 3" feels a lot better and more of a middle ground. I would suspect they used Sunnysky to make the motors as they have previously but it's hard to actually tell.

WHAT'S IN THE BOX？

Out of the box is similar for most Diatone models. The packaging is nice and upon opening the box you a greeted with the quad itself. Underneath the next layer you will find your props, a few cables and spares and the instructions. An optional buzzer on a ready to use PCB is also included.

The packaging is all in all well presented and it's nice that they include spares. I would like to see at least one set of spare props included especially since Diatone doesn't specify what props it takes. In case you wanted to order some more they are the Gemfan Flash 3052 (a great 3" prop)

In summary you will find:

• Diatone GT-R349
• 4x Gemfan Flash 3052 props
• Instructions + FC pin-out sheet
• Buzzer (on PCB)
• Various spare buts of hardware
• 5 zip ties
• 5 battery pads
• 2 Battery Straps
• XT30 female connector
• Spare cable for FC and ESC
• Stickers

FLIGHT PERFORMANCE