FlyTech Dragonfly
© 2007 WowWee USA, Inc.
Here's a first: a flying toy with dual sets of flapping — or ornithopter— wings. About the size of a robin, the FlyTech Dragonfly ($50, www.flytechonline.com) combines a unique hinged wing design with a tiny tail propeller, giving it the ability to flutter in a tight circle, providing there's not too much wind. The bug-like buzz of the propeller and glowing LED eyes give it such unsettling first impression that it can stop traffic. One brave cat proceeded to attacked our test unit, mistaking it for a bird. The large remote doubles as a charging base and holds six 6 AA batteries, enough for about about ten flights at about eight minutes each. Each refresh of the tiny internal lithium polymer battery takes about 20 minutes, by way of a tiny wire, and there is a power-saving auto-off feature. There are two easy-to-figure-out thumb controls; one for wing flapping speed and the other combining the direction and speed of the tail rotor. There are spare wings and a propeller, along with a tail ribbon for beginners. The light carbon-fiber body combined with the floppy wings, helps to cushion hard landings and minimize damage — although there is no guarantee for cats.
$50, Smart Toy
Teaches: science, operating a remote control, flying
CTR Rating: 90%