If you have the large capacity lipos and you are flying 600's then you do. Electric might be your most economical route.

That said. There are many 25-26 gas engines that are well under $200.00. Sure they are not "big name" engines. But they are reliable and run gas cheaper than glow and less messy.

I have never been of the mentality that a "high price, big name" engine is better. I have bought used engines for pennies on the dollar and have flown them for years. If you have a local "SWAP MEET" coming up in your area. Go walk around. You will be amazed at some of the deals you can find. I recently bought a US Engines 25 and quadra 35 at a local swap meet with a bunch of spare parts. Coils, etc. for $75.00.

Both run so deals are out there. You just have to look.

You can get good deals spend less money and have great fun. This hobby is only as expensive as you let it get.

Good luck in what ever you decide. I just thought I would toss in a couple of avenues that have not been discussed.