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If you’re a paraglider pilot, you’ve probably heard other pilots raving about their “vario.” Maybe you’ve even flown with one and experienced that magical beep when you hit a thermal. But when it comes time to buy your own, you’re hit with a wall of options—GPS or non-GPS? Audio or full display? Lightweight or feature-packed?
Don’t worry. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose the best variometer based on your flying style, skill level, and goals. We’ll cover the must-have features, break down the different types of varios, and help you make an informed decision without any tech jargon.
📌 What Is a Variometer?
Let’s start with the basics.
A variometer is a flight instrument that measures vertical speed—in other words, how fast you’re climbing or descending. It gives real-time audio and visual cues, which helps you:
- Find and center thermals more efficiently
- Avoid sink zones
- Fly farther and stay up longer
- Improve safety, especially in complex terrain
It’s not just a tool—it becomes your trusted co-pilot.
flymaster variometer
✈️ Why Choosing the Right Variometer Matters
Just like choosing a wing or harness, your variometer should match your flying goals.
Here’s why:
- A beginner might only need a basic beeping vario.
- An XC pilot needs airspace alerts, glide ratios, and GPS navigation.
- A hike-and-fly pilot values lightweight gear over features.
That’s why there’s no single “best” variometer—but there is a best one for you.
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Best Variometer
1. Define Your Flying Style
Are you:
✅ A New Pilot or Casual Soarer?
You’re still learning the basics, flying locally, and thermalling for fun.
Look for: Simple, budget-friendly vario with audio and climb/sink info
✅ A Hike-and-Fly Enthusiast?
You hike up mountains and want ultra-light gear that won’t weigh you down.
Look for: Compact, lightweight, durable, solar-powered or USB-chargeable vario
✅ An XC (Cross-Country) Pilot?
You fly distances, plan routes, and want to optimize every transition.
Look for: GPS-enabled variometers with thermal assistant, glide calculator, and airspace alerts
✅ A Competition Pilot?
You need top-tier navigation, fast updates, and full airspace info.
Look for: Touchscreen flight computers with advanced data analysis
2. Choose the Type of Variometer
There are 3 main categories:
🔊 Audio-Only Variometers
- Beeps to indicate climb or sink
- Very lightweight and simple
- Perfect for hike-and-fly or as a backup
Popular models:
SkyBean 2 Mini, Syride SYS’One V3, BlueFly Vario
📟 Standard Digital Varios
- Shows climb/sink, altitude, glide ratio
- No GPS, but reliable for most recreational flying
Popular models:
Flytec Element Speed, Digifly AIR BT
📡 GPS-Integrated Smart Varios
- Advanced navigation, thermal mapping, and airspace alerts
- Can sync with apps like XCTrack and FlySkyHy
- Best for XC and competitive pilots
Popular models:
XC Tracer Maxx II, Skytraxx 5, Syride SYS’Nav XL
xc tracer
skytraxx variometer
flytec element
syride sys’nav xl
3. Essential Features You Should Look For Buying A Paragliding Vatiometer
Here’s a simple breakdown of key features and why they matter:
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Vertical Speed (Vario) | Shows how fast you’re climbing/sinking |
| Audio Tones | Lets you thermal hands-free with beeping feedback |
| GPS Functionality | Records tracks, enables route planning and navigation |
| Altitude Display | Shows your current height above launch/sea level |
| Glide Ratio | Helps optimize transitions between lift zones |
| Thermal Assistant | Shows the location and strength of recent lift |
| Airspace Alerts | Warns if you’re approaching restricted airspace |
| Flight Recording | Logs flights for competitions or analysis (IGC/KML files) |
| Battery Life | Ideally 20–40+ hours; solar is a bonus |
| App Syncing | Allows pairing with FlySkyHy, XCTrack, or SeeYou Navigator |
4. Think About Size, Weight & Power
⛰️ For hike-and-fly:
- Go for under 50g
- Bonus: solar-powered or USB rechargeable
🛫 For XC flying:
- Expect a larger unit, around 150–250g
- Prioritize screen size and battery life over weight
5. Match Your Budget to Your Needs
Here’s what you can expect in each price range:
| Budget (€) | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Under €100 | Basic audio-only varios, no GPS, ideal for beginners or hike-and-fly |
| €100–€300 | Entry to mid-level varios with some GPS, good for recreational XC |
| €300–€600 | GPS-enabled, thermal assistant, airspace warnings—perfect for XC flying |
| €600+ | Touchscreen navigation computers for elite-level flying and competitions |
💡 Tip: Don’t overspend for features you won’t use. Even an €80 vario can make a huge difference if you’re just starting out.
6. Check App Compatibility
Want to log flights or use live tracking?
Make sure your vario is compatible with these apps:
- XCTrack (Android) – Powerful and customizable
- FlySkyHy (iOS) – Clean UI and intuitive for iPhone users
- SeeYou Navigator – Great for competitions and team flying
Most mid- to high-end varios sync via Bluetooth or USB. Be sure to check if your vario records in IGC format for league submissions.
7. Community Feedback & Support
Before buying, look at:
- Paragliding forums (PGForum, ParaglidingTalk)
- Pilot reviews on YouTube
- Facebook groups (Paragliding Gear Talk)
Also check for:
- Regular firmware updates
- Good customer support
- Easy-to-replace batteries or charging ports
🥇 Recommended Variometers by Type (2025)
| Type | Model | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Audio-Only | SkyBean 2 Mini | Hike-and-fly, backup |
| Budget Digital | Flytec Element Speed | Beginners |
| Compact GPS Vario | XC Tracer Mini V | Hike-and-fly with GPS |
| Mid-Range GPS | Syride SYS’Nav XL | Recreational XC |
| High-End GPS + Touch | Skytraxx 5, Oudie N | XC & competition pilots |
🧠 Final Thoughts: Which Variometer Is Right for You?
Here’s a quick checklist:
✅ Do you mostly ridge-soar or thermal casually? → Get a basic or digital vario
✅ Do you hike to launch regularly? → Choose an ultralight or solar-powered model
✅ Want to fly farther and start XC? → Invest in a mid-range GPS vario
✅ Competing or flying in complex airspace? → Go for full-featured nav instruments
Above all—buy the vario that matches your current goals, and let your gear grow with your skills.
🔁 FAQ – Choosing the Best Variometer
Q: Can I use my phone instead of a vario?
Yes—for basic flying. Apps like XCTrack and FlySkyHy use your phone’s barometer and GPS. But they can be less responsive and more battery-hungry.
Q: What’s the difference between barometric and GPS varios?
Barometric sensors are more responsive and better for thermalling. GPS provides track data, speed, and position. Many top models combine both.
Q: Is it worth getting a solar-powered vario?
If you’re into hike-and-fly or long-day XC, yes. They’re light and low-maintenance—but may lack advanced features.
