ORIGINAL: Lightfoot
A radio does not have to be computer type or expensive to be a good radio. I have several radios, one of which is an old Futaba Conquest and it is still a good functional radio. All of my planes are .40 size, 4 - channel and I have never needed a computer type radio. The best radio I have is an Airtronics 6 - channel single stick. Since I am nothing but a common run oif the mill sport flyer, I seriously doubt that I will ever need anything more.
Lightfoot, you are right. I agree that very few people NEED a computer radio and you can fly most planes with a 4 channel radio.
However computer radios can make flying so much more convenient. And, in the case of a new flyer, can also make it easy through the application of multi rates AND exponential.
No one needs an automatic transmission in their car either. But they do make them so much easier and more convenient to drive.
Now, if you are going to get into full house sailplanes, 3D flying, pattern flying or other advanced flying, a computer radio can really enhance the experience. And, in some cases you NEED the comptuer radio to really get the full effect these planes have to offer.
Does a beginner need that now? No! But if you can afford only a few dollars more you can get so much more value for your money.
But I do agree. You don't NEED a comptuer radio, especially as a beginner.