RCU Forums - I need some beginner help

Having faced the same dilemma you faced about 8 months ago, my vote goes to the Wing Dragon. It is in your price range, it is very easy to learn to fly it without an instructor, it is safe and hard to break and you will minimise your frustration. Firebird Commander is good too, but in some ways I think it is harder to fly a 2 channel than a 3 channel. You are much more at the mercy of the wind. It does glide a bit better than a Wing Dragon though. Both are pushers, as are some of the recommendations above. A pusher is a great choice for a beginner, otherwise you will spend all your money on new props!

At the start, do yourself a favour, and whatever you choose, fly in VERY calm conditions in a VERY large space. Later you will learn to handle the wind, but why complicate things at the start?