I can completely understand your situation. I’ve heard it a lot recently, particularly the regulation part. I would like to suggest a couple of things if you do stick with the hobby.

First, analog video isn’t going anywhere. Sure, it’s not flashy and an HD system would be a lot better image quality, but it’s still the cheapest option out there and has a lot going for it. Analog split cameras are, as you point out, basically dead. Walksnail VTX probably the closest thing to a split now with its DVR on the VTX. Also, the RunCam Thumb Pro is a decent, light weight, and relatively inexpensive option to the split cams.

Second, if you’re not having issues with your RC link, don’t swap it. When you need more receivers, then take the plunge on ExpressLRS. The receivers are inexpensive (~$15-$20 for a decent Radiomaster Rx) and a basic transmitter module that will fit in the QX7 isn’t that bad either (Radiomaster Ranger Micro is $40).

Regardless, I hope you can either find your way through these doubts or find another hobby to replace it that you find more fulfilling. Cheers and good luck!

The RemoteID rule for self-built drones doesn’t come into effect until September, so we don’t know what compliance rate is yet. However, the overall sentiment is very anti-RID, but we’ll have to see if that’s just a vocal minority or actually representative of the majority. I suspect the latter.

Also, the FCC’s transmitter output limit is 1W, not 800mW. The limit for power radiated from the antenna (EIRP) limit is 4W. FPV manufacturers have a bad habit of not specifying which they’re listing in their product specs. That said, I’ve only ever heard of folks getting in trouble with the FCC when they’re doing something flagrantly stupid, like using restricted bands or bouncing signals off HAM repeaters.