When we first spotted this remote-controlled copter at the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this year, we predicted it would be one of the "it" toys for the holidays. Well, we were right. The Micro Mosquito has been flying off shelves (sorry).
The Micro Mosquito includes the helicopter, a charging base/stand and remote control. An included kit lets you modify the copter to boost forward flight speed.
As the name implies, Interactive Toy Concepts' Micro Mosquito is smaller and lighter than other remote-controlled helicopters, including the company's own BladeRunner series. The helicopter literally fits in the palm of your hand and weighs about an ounce.
The trick to the Micro Mosquito is its dual counter-rotating props, which make the helicopter relatively easy to fly, though it still takes a bit of practice especially in tight indoor spaces.
The remote control is simple with up and down and directional levers. Note the trim control in the center--you turn the knob in flight until the helicopter stops spinning.
The Micro Mosquito will fly for about 15 minutes on a 45-minute charge of its lithium-polymer batteries, according to Interactive Toy Concepts. To charge it, you connect the cable in the base (it takes six "C" batteries) to the helicopter.
While it is a toy (ages 12 and up), the Micro Mosquito's intricate parts seem delicate. In fact, it comes with instructions on how to fine-tune the gears and drive shaft after a hard landing.