I just got some GWS EP5443 props in from Banggood. Users on the HeliFreak thread mentioned that it improved performance of their mQX. RCGroups also has a couple of threads (New GWS props for mQX and EZ v929 Performance Prop Upgrade) about these GWS props, and most say it’s an improvement over the stock props. So, I have been wanting to try these for a while now.
I got mine in from Banggood for about $1 a piece when ordering 3 or more.
The first users of this prop on Helifreak said the prop did not have an inner ridge that prevents binding on the bearings. However, the version I got from Banggood does have this inner ridge. That’s a good thing, because it allows the prop to properly ride on the bearing.
It has a pretty aggressive looking pitch angle, that changes as it moves from the center to the tip. So some waviness that I thought the props may have been damaged during it’s journey to me. But once compared to the other 16 I purchased, it was evident that the waviness is intentional.
I like the fact that the GWS EP5443 prop weigh 1.68g versus the stock WLToys prop weight of 1.91g. So it’s more similar to the mQX props, weighing in at 1.62g.
Profile view of the WLToys prop versus the GWS EP5443 prop.
Top view of the WLToys prop versus the GWS EP5443 prop.
From reading the thread, the general consensus is the EP5443 prop is a vast improvement over the stock WLToys prop. However, I see mention that you must balance them first before using. It was refreshing for me to find that they flew fine out of the package. The prop tracks well. I also took off the gear so the shaft can spin freely on it’s bearing when held horizontally. The balance of the prop seems good when tested that way as well. Not certain if the ones carried by BangGood are better than the ones people are buying from GoodLuckBuy.
Anyways, enough of all that. What is my subjective opinion after flying with the new prop? I put them on my v949 and took it outside to put a couple of lipo through it. It was breezy and cold for San Diego, but the prop performs really well. It seems to be all improvement without any negatives that I can see. I didn’t crash the quad at all so I can’t comment on their durability. The v949 with these props on feels very connected to my transmitter stick movement. I like them a lot. And I will put these on my quads of this size.
I also like how different it looks. The props looks very aggressive. The only thing I wish for is the props in red. Advantage Hobby listed white versions. That means one should be able to dye the white props to any color. :) We’ll see when they get them in stock.
Edit to add:
I do find some of my GWS props can use a little balancing. I just pull off the gear and see which side is heavier. I put Kapton 1cm tape in the middle of the lighter blade. On the topside. So far, it seems like 3pieces of tape is perfect.
