RE: 3D Vs. Pattern
You gotta give us a little more info.
Are you wanting to fly electric, glow or gas?
What's your budget?
Are you interested in becoming competitive or just want to fly on the weekends?
What is your current skill level?
3D is a flying style that involves flying specialized aerobatics usually below the stall speed of the aircraft.
It includes maneuvers such as harriers, elevators, blenders, hovering, torque rolls, etc.
It is normally judged based on execution, versatility, originality, and choreography.
Pattern is a flying style that involves flying specific aerobatic maneuvers in a pre-determined sequence.
It includes maneuvers such as loops, rolls, stall turns, spins, etc.
It is judged based on precision.
Prices for each type of flying range from a basic set-up of $500 bucks to the top of the line stuff in the thousands.