The "cheap controller" idea is popular here, even among those who have their own TX. It protects your "real" TX from getting banged up. You can get used TXs (without flight packs) pretty cheap, $40 seems to be the going rate.

I have AeroFlyPro Deluxe Commander version, which is the version of AFPD that comes with a controller. Works nicely. So that's another option for you.

For comparisons between G3 and other products, I suggest you search the forum here. This topic has been beat on pretty hard. I am a beginner myself (compared to others here) though I have flown simple planes (Rudder and elevator) for years. As a beginner, I think the G3 "tutor" function would be nice to have. I picked AFPD because of the reputation for "physics" and "sailplanes", and have been happy.

Reflex does indeed have a better rep than either AFPD or G3 when it comes to helis. The cheap controller is probably your best bet.


Good luck,

Eric