Hobbywing program box vs WiFi express
 

I think the wifi express logs multiple entries for temperature/rpm data, and it also allows you to save/load multiple profiles with single (or multiple) ESC/s.

I'd wait to hear others' responses though - while I've used both and have the app, I haven't bought my own express yet (just borrowed friend's).
The app is very nice, Hobbywing has nicer/neater software than Tekin, also seems bug-free. Works well on iPhone too.

If you already have the program box I don't think there's any huge functional benefit, it's just very neat and convenient.
The app has a demo mode (for each HW ESC) so if you like, you can install it on your phone and have a play around before buying anything.

You can download the HW app to your phone and do a direct comparison before buying the WiFi module.

The biggest thing was that the wifi express can update ESC firmware from your phone. You can also leave it in the car and tune without having to get off the driver's stand and pulling the body off, if you really wanted.

The biggest annoyance, however, is that it sometimes takes up to 5 minutes to connect to my phone which is really annoying if you're trying to really tune something in.

They say to try changing the SSID and password. It’ll help in a busy RF environment.

I have never used the HW programming box. I love the WiFi Express Module. Easy programming from my phone with the free app. I bought it for 40ish bucks at my LHS.

quic runs can be tuned using the set button. Whilst not as easy as the program box, it's a pretty convenient feature that I wish the XERUNS had.

QUESTION: Now, in 2021, Is the Hobbywing OTA (over-the-air) programmer the current/modern replacement for the Wifi Express?

Hobbywing's website (with a lot being lost in translation, I think...) says that some XERUN ESCs are compatible with the OTA programmer. I have the XR8 SCT, and the webpage for said ESC says it's compatible with the Wifi Express module, but it appears that product isn't made anymore?

Basically, the OTA programmer is Bluetooth only, or does it support Wifi AND Bluetooth connections?

LOL, what the hell programmer can I use?!?

Use the OTA. The OTA and WiFi are interchangeable. The OTA is just easier for some people to figure out.

Thanks. I will check it out for sure. Seems like an easy option that's only a bit more $$$ compared to the LCD box. And just to confirm, there is no other way to program the ESC except for the programmers, correct? The manual lists several OPTIONS in a table, and the only way to obtain said options, other being stuck with Option #1 (default), is to program via a programmer, correct?

Like, HW could have employed an "enter programming mode via the on/off button, then push the number of times to activate the preset options, with a beeping of the option number to confirm as set. Well, I guess that's how they get ya!

Too many options, it's hard enough with a simple airplane ESC. Just buy the OTA and be done with it. There is a used WiFi module on here as well. Its a cheaper way to go and works fine. Don't bother with the program card IMHO. The new HW app works great!

Thanks for the reply! Good, solid advice for the simple reason for future-proofing and/or if I ever upgrade to a higher-end HW ESC. I got some Amazon points to use, so if I can get the OTA for LCD box cost, then it's a no-brainer for sure! ;)