How to start FPV - what to get

Analog Era (2008-2020):

Since I get asked a lot how to enter the FPV hobby I compiled this list of things to start at. Not the best components - but something you can use for a long time with good value/price rating. Most of the things I use myself (excep the 250 copter here).

FPV entry is really easy today - so many RTF systems, plug & fly versions... You got to consider some things and most of us have to watch their budget.

For small budgets - 250 class Miniquads are good to start with. As they are often aimed for the races they are quite crash-resistant! There are many 250 sets - recently I tested the ambitious "XJaguar" from Fylpro, my alltime favourite this year is still the ImmersionRC Vortex250. Durable, lots of features and I had many flights with it this year! 
Also checke out this free FPV sim to get started:  Drone Racing League SIM

Batteries:

1500mah 3cell with high C-rating!

I would use the hobbyking EU warehouse (or whatever is next to you) to have shorter delivery times and less customs problems.

These here are good bot out of stock tm: Turnigy Nanotech 1500mah 3cell

these would also work: ZIPPY Compact 1500mAh 3S 35C

you need at least 4 pieces (you only get 5 mins flighttime on each). Also get one more for goggles / receiver.

Lipo-Charger  (if you can, go for a dual charger since you will have to charge a lot and you shouldnt leave tham charging unattented)

Cam to record (in HD, not neccessary for flight but cool to have something to share):

RuncamHD  (also get one or two 16GB SD Cards)

Cam for downlink:

Runcam Sky 650TVL

Video Transmitter (25mw legal)

(25mw are legal and good for 200-300m)

Video receiver

dual / diversity receiver with better signal: Diversity FR632

Video-Antennas:

ImmersionRC Spironet 

(if you bought the diversity RX above - also get one directional antenna ImmersionRC Spiro Patch )
or better yet, check out the Circular-Wireless Helicals! 

Goggles:

This could be the most expensive part here (if you go for the Sony Cinemizers or the Dominator HD for example - 500-700€)

But you can get away cheap and with a great image if you get the styrofoam box type goggles like the:

Quanum V2 and batterycable for it (make sure to get a 3cell battery for goggles and RX also!)
Recently they brought out the Fatshark Dominator SE which I think is the best value/money option - check my short video review. 

Radio - control link:

FrSky Taranis - a good remote which is very affordable!

Receivers are good range and cheap here (around 30€). Standard receiver for me is the X8r (with telemetry and around 1-2km range). If you really wanna go far, check the LR receivers.

One of these X8rs is in the Set above or the longrange L9R

Hope I didnt forget something really important here - please comment if so. Also comment your suggestions if you have something WAY better for a newbie to be included in this list. But it's not the "top notch" list, it's aimed for entry into the hobby.

I think this topic is hot, and if I get a lot of response I might try to cover this in a video also.

greetings and happy FPVing,

RCSchim