The #1 Rule of CLI

Betaflight will never remember what you typed unless the last thing you type is save. If you just close the window, your changes are deleted instantly.

# Example of a successful change
> set vtx_low_power_disarm = ON
> save
Rebooting...

> Essential Commands

diff all Type in console

The most important command. It shows ONLY the settings you have changed from the factory defaults.

Use Case:

Use this for backups. Copy/paste the output into a text file.

dump Type in console

Shows every single line of code in the flight controller.

Use Case:

Extreme backup. Huge file. Usually overkill compared to 'diff all'.

status Type in console

Checks the health of the hardware.

Use Case:

Shows CPU load, gyro health, and why your drone won't arm (Arming Flags).

resource Type in console

Shows which hardware pin is assigned to which function.

Use Case:

Essential for remapping a motor to a different pad if you break one.

set [variable] Type in console

Changes a specific setting (e.g., 'set serialrx_inverted = ON').

Use Case:

Used for advanced tuning not found in the toggle menus.

save Type in console

The 'Enter' key for your brain.

Use Case:

If you don't type this, NOTHING you did above will be remembered.

Dump vs. Diff All

Think of dump as a photocopy of the entire book, while diff all is just a sticky note of the things you underlined.

Always use 'diff all' when moving settings between different versions of Betaflight.

Common Arming Flags

Type status to see these:

RPMFILTER - ESCs aren't talking to FC.
THROTTLE - Your throttle stick isn't at zero.
MSP - You are still plugged into the computer.
CALIB - The drone is moving while trying to calibrate.