Remote control (RC) cars have been around for quite some time. Most adults of today, especially millennials, owned these vehicles when they were younger, and some still do. These cars are used as gifts from parents to children, but it does not end there. There are RC car competitions that adults actively participate, and yes, it is legal.
There are different types of racing cars, and this is as a result of the source that powers them. The most popular RC cars are electrically powered cars, while others are nitro-powered and gas-powered cars. The latter is rarer and more expensive than the other two.
Also, RC cars are usually modeled after real-life cars, trucks, etc. however, they do not take the same size. Rc cars are usually designed smaller relative to the car they are modeled after. Examples of popular scales in the RC car category are 1/10, 1/12, 1/14, etc. These ratios depict the size of the car relative to the actual car.
Not everyone can own a Lamborghini, Ferrari, or a Bugatti, but their RC models are quite affordable. However, while there are affordable RC cars, there are also some that are custom made, and usually, they do not come cheap. Speed and performance are two factors that can affect the price of these fun rides.
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The Eight Best RC Cars Are Reviewed Below
There are thousands of RC cars on the market. Finding the best among those multitudes can be tasking. To make light of your work, we have gathered some of the best RC cars on the market for you to peek at and appreciate some of RC cars’ interesting features.
1
Hosim Large Size 1:10 Scale Cross-Country Car
If you thought owning an RC car is just cool, wait till you meet the Hosim Cross Country car, and be exposed to a new form of awesome. It is a four-wheel-drive that offers a combination of performance and durability. The truck is well known for its off-road performance and its equally impressive on-road rides, all of which are not unrelated to its strongly built tires. It is one of the best RC cars under $200.
The heavy-duty wheel of the truck help prevents the vehicle from skidding. Other features, such as the stimulated shockproof system and the shaft structure with steel chassis, are embedded in this unit. All these features work effectively to reduce the impact of driving on rough terrains.
Hosim Cross Country Car comes with two powerful brushed motors which place it high above RC cars with only one motor, in terms of power. The car can move in any direction with ease. You can make it perform different car maneuvers such as drifting, flipping, and turning. The car is also equipped with professional steering alongside an active four-wheel.
There is an anti-jamming feature that allows the truck to race with other cars. The car comes with a highly responsive 2.4 GHz remote control that has a range of 262 feet. You can use it to set the car’s speed mode, which can either be full speed or half speed.
Key Features:
- Four-wheel drive
- 2.4 GHz Remote Control Truck
- High speed of 28.6 MPH
- Anti-skidding feature
- Anti-jamming feature
Specification:
- Brand: Hosim
- Model: Large Size 1:10 Scale Cross-Country
- Scale: 1/10
Pros
- The car is strong and durable
- It has two motors
- Has considerable speed
- Ideal for drifting, flipping, etc.
- Its electronic components are waterproof
Cons
- It has a low battery life
- An extra battery usually needed.
2
Traxxas Rustler RTR XL-5 RC Car
Traxxas is one of the most popular and leading brands that produce high-quality RC vehicles. The Rustler is an RC truck designed for racing in any weather, terrain, at any time. This will come as good news to enthusiasts and hobbyists of RC racing. The truck has an imposing look and offers users the thrills of a fast running car.
The excellent performance of the Traxxas Rustler is a result of the power generated from the high-quality, low resistance batteries that come with it. The receiver, control, and other electronic components of the car are embedded in waterproof technology, meaning, you can take it on and off-road, through puddles, muddy terrain as well as snow without a hitch.
The car comes equipped with a Traxxas 8.4V, 3000mAh Battery. This battery is responsible for the Traxxas rustler’s impressive speed, which goes as high as 35 mph. The car is powered by a Titan modified 550 motor, which is not only strong but lasts long. You can also drive with some high degree of precision thanks to the XL-5 electronic speed control as well as its original Torque control slipper clutch.
The Traxxas Rustler is ideal for all levels of drivers, both entry and experienced. Its ergonomic design helps to ensure that it does not only give you some of the best racing experience but also lasts long.
Key Features:
- Waterproof technology
- Ready-to-race truck
- XL-5 electronic speed control
- Slipper clutch
- Ergonomic design
Specification:
- Brand: Traxxas
- Model: Rustler RTR XL-5 RC Car
- Scale: 1/10
Pros
- It is fast
- The car has a strong battery
- It is durable
- It can navigate different terrains regardless of the weather
- Its electronic components are waterproof
- Its controls are impressive
Cons
- Needs a very good charger
3
Traxxas 1/10 Slash 4x4 Brushless Short Course Truck
It is no surprise that another Traxxas is featuring on this list. If you are still wondering why, get to know the stuff this car is made of, and what it can offer you, then you will appreciate this RC car maker.
The Traxxas Slash 4×4 Brushless Short Course Truck is a platinum racing car that comes equipped with the latest technology in the RC racing car world. The car gives one of the best short course racing performance and handling thanks to its relatively new low center of gravity chassis as well as its high-volume pair of shocks. It also comes with machined aluminum suspension components.
RC car owners that also like to customize their cars will fall in love with this car. You can redesign the car in any color of your choice thanks to the transparent body of the car.
The electronic components of the Traxxas Slash Short Course Truck are waterproof. Therefore, you can drive this truck in humid environments, puddles, etc. without damaging its components.
The car can attain a top speed of 60mph due to its powerful brushless motor and integrated low-voltage protection. There are other unique features, such as the X-rings, which help seal the unit-s shocks to prevent oil or dirt from entering and the Velineon system that helps boost speed and performance.
These features combine to give users a sturdy, fast, and high-performance car that can run in any weather.
Key Features:
- Low center of gravity chassis
- High speed of 60mph
- Waterproof components
- Transparent and customizable body
- Brushless motor
- Integrated low-voltage protection
Specification:
- Brand: Traxxas
- Model: Slash 4X4 Brushless Short Course Truck
- Scale: 1/10
Pros
- Durable
- It is waterproof
- It is customizable
- Has excellent maneuverability
- It is exceptionally fast
Cons
- It is expensive
- Its battery, transmitter, and receiver are sold separately.
4
Distianert 1:12 Scale 4WD RTR Rock Crawler
Distianert Rock Crawler is arguably one of the fasters RC racing cars on the market thanks to its powerful in-built brushless motor and heavy-duty wheels. This motor powers the car to attain astounding speeds that surpass the average RC car. The car also comes equipped with two sets of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
This car is also one of the best off-road cars in the RC car category. The 2.4GHz remote control of this car takes an interesting pistol-like shape that is not only sleek but highly functional. The remote’s trigger is very sensitive and can be used to control the car with high precision. You can control the Distianert Rock Crawler within a space of about 250 feet, which is quite impressive.
You can drive this car nonstop for thirty minutes after a full charge. The car moves effortlessly over different terrains such as rock, sand, concrete, etc. thanks to its anti-collision feature as well as its 4wd independent suspension system. To boost performance and handling, the car is also equipped with an anti-shock suspension system.
Key Features:
- Brushless motor
- 2.4 GHz Remote Control
- Two sets of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
- On and off-road racing
- Anti-collision feature
- 4WD independent suspension system
- High speed
Specification:
- Brand: Distianert
- Model: 4WD Electric Car All Terrain Monster Truck
- Scale: 1/12
Pros
- Long battery life thanks to the two batteries
- Performs well on and off-road
- Child-friendly design
- It is lightweight
Cons
- It is not durable enough.
5
Tamiya 58662 Comical Grasshopper Kit
The Tamiya 58662 Comical Grasshopper brings the nostalgia of the popular one-seater buggies that raced on dirt tracks in the US in the 1980s. This is because the car is designed to resemble and perform like those buggies.
The car is lightweight and has a relatively secure and easy mode of assembly and control. One of the reasons the car stands out among its peers is its impressive 540-type brushed motor. It comes with a two-channel radio gear.
The car is designed to give drivers optimal experience when driving on-road or off-road thanks to its long suspension arms and CVA oil dampers. It also has an original kit that comes equipped with a lot of interesting features. Its internal assembly, as well as the exterior design, are built to be simple and imposing, respectively.
The Tamiya Grasshopper has an impressive, sturdy polycarbonate chassis designed to withstand whatever is thrown at it to a large extent. The rear tires, along with the front tires, combine to give the car a very good grip performance.
This RC racing car with a grasshopper-like design does not disappoint its users in terms of handling and performance, whether you are just entering the RC car world or you are a hobbyist.
Key Features:
- Sturdy polycarbonate body
- High-quality components
- Two-channel radio gear
- Excellent grip
Specification:
- Brand: Tamiya
- Model: 58662 RC Comical Grasshopper Kit
- Scale: 1/10
Pros
- Easy to control and drive
- Lightweight
- It has high-quality components
- The car is durable
Cons
- The battery, charger, receiver, transmitter, among others, are sold separately.
6
Redcat Racing Brushless Electric Tornado EPX PRO Buggy
The Redcat Racing Brushless Electric Tornado EPX PRO Buggy is an RC car whose sleek plastic chassis and large tires, among other prominent features, combine to give an amazing driving experience and car performance. The tornado is run by a powerful brushless power system coupled with a high-torque steering servo.
The brushless power system comprises of a brushless 3300KV 540 motor, and a waterproof 60A LiPo brushless electronic stability control. The car also has a 3500mAh LiPo battery. All these contribute to the precision and power of this car.
The car is durable and has an adjustable suspension, which helps to enhance performance. The car offers users a wide range of tuning options, which should interest the RC car hobbyist. This car has impressive traction and stability even when running on high-speed thanks to its rear wing design.
Its tires have an aggressive look, and its road performance ensures that its aggressiveness is not limited to looks alone. The car does a good job when it comes to off-road racing. The car has a 2.4GHz radio system, and AA batteries power the transmitter.
Key Features:
- Brushless power system
- 2.4GHz radio system
- Adjustable suspension
- Large tires
- Plastic chassis
Specification:
- Brand: Red Racing
- Model: Brushless Electric Tornado EPX PRO Buggy
- Scale: 1/10
Pros
- It has a powerful motor
- It is fast
- It has adjustable features
- It is easy to change some components.
Cons
- The shocks are not strong.
7
BEZGAR Remote Control Car
BEZGAR Remote Control Car is one of the best RC cars under $100 that offers users exciting realistic cross-country racing experience. This 1:14 scale car is designed for entry-level and experienced racers. Its built-in motors power the car to high speeds of about 25 km/h (15.5 mph), which is relatively fast for a car in its category.
The car has a radio control system that operates at a frequency of 2.4GHz, which has a control distance of about 164 feet. Apart from the normal control of the car, the radio system activates the car’s anti-jamming feature, making it ideal for multiple car racing.
The car comes with two 6V 800mAh Ni-MH batteries. These batteries reach full charge after 3 hours; then, you can drive the car at full speed for 20 minutes nonstop or 30 minutes depending on use.
The front and rear bumper design help prevent damage during off-road driving, especially on rocky terrain. The chassis of this RC car is made of durable alloy material, and it is also designed to be shockproof. The car is ideal for people from the age of eight and above who want to experience smooth on-road and off-road driving without a hitch.
Key Features:
- 2.4 GHz radio control system
- Two rechargeable batteries
- Anti-jamming features
- Shock absorbers
- Big tires
- Alloy frame
Specification:
- Brand: BEZGAR
- Model: Remote Control Car
- Scale: 1/14
Pros
- It is affordable
- The car is relatively fast
- It has sensitive controls
- It is ideal for on-road and off-road racing
Cons
- The battery charger is not reliable.
8
SPESXFUN 2020 Newest 1/16 Scale High-Speed Remote Control Car
The SPESXFUN RC Car is one of the best RC cars for kids and beginners. This is the upgraded version of the popular car. It is not only one of the best cars to use to introduce yourself to the RC car racing world; it is one of the top cars when it comes to drifting.
The car comes equipped with two powerful built-in motors that power it to a top speed of about 25 KM/H, which is quite fast for normal racing.
It is made with high-quality materials with the chassis of the car being made from safe and healthy ABS plastic and metal. The car’s paint is moisture-proof and is designed to last long. Other components of the car are specially designed to be strong; examples are the cockpit, shock absorbers, etc.
The car has four big anti-slip tires that help make off-road driving fun as well as enhance the braking force of the car. It comes with two rechargeable Ni-MH battery that which can both last for 20 to 30 minutes after a full charge.
The car’s radio control system operates at a frequency of 2.4GHz and has a control range of about 50 meters. This car is a fun ride that parents can use to wow their kids as well as play around with from time to time.
Key Features:
- 2.4 GHz radio transmitter
- Two rechargeable batteries
- ABS plastic and metal chassis
- Shock absorbers
- Control range of 50 meters
- Two powerful built-in motors
Specification:
- Brand: SPESXFUN
- Model: 2020 Newest High-Speed Remote Control Car
- Scale: 1/16
Pros
- It has easy to use controls
- The car is fast
- Ideal for off-road trips
- Ideal for beginners
- It has strongly built components.
Cons
- Some users may encounter battery issues.
Buying Guide Questions
This guide contains questions that RC car buyers around the world ask along with carefully crafted and researched answers to help you make the best purchasing decision when it comes to RC cars.
Which is the best RC Cars brand?
Different brands make outstanding RC Cars. Among these brands, some have made their mark over the years and have been consistent in giving their customers some of the best RC cars seen.
Traxxas is one of those brands. Other brands worth noticing are Tamiya, Redcat Racing as well as Hosim. There are other RC car makers known for manufacturing high-quality RC cars.
What is the best RC car to buy?
The best RC car that you can buy depends on your budget and what you want in an RC car. If you have much need for speed, you should be looking at the brushless electric RC cars or going for a custom-built car.
Long battery life, maneuverability, good controls, among other interesting features, make a good RC. If you can get all this for a good price, then you have a very good car. You can find such cars under brands like Traxxas, among others. However, most Traxxas RC cars are relatively expensive.
What is the best RC car for under 100?
There are tonnes of RC cars that fall under this price range. Among them is the BEZGAR remote control car. Ensure that the car has a good battery, has considerable speed, good motors, etc.
What is the best Traxxas RC car to buy?
Traxxas has an impressive fleet of cars under its belt. The best Traxxas RC car to buy will depend on what you want in a Traxxas vehicle. If speed is the main motivation, then the Traxxas XO-1 may be the one for you with its astounding speed exceeding 100 mph. You can also check out RC Trucks and RC Excavators which are super fun to play with.
What is the toughest RC car?
The toughest RC Cars are usually designed for off-road racing and have incredible speed. They can move on different terrains and usually have waterproof components.
What is the fastest RC car in the world?
This is the car with the record for the fastest RC car in the world.
What is the most popular RC car?
Traxxas is the most popular brand and maker of RC cars. This makes their cars relatively more popular than other brands.
What is the most expensive RC car?
Traxxas XO-1 is one of the most expensive RC cars in the world. However, it does not come close to the Vision Mercedes Maybach 6, which is regarded as the most expensive RC car. You can see some of the most expensive RC Drones here.
Are nitro RC cars better than electric?
The answer is no and vice versa. Personal preference dictates which are better for different individuals. Nitro RC cars are highly tunable, but their cost of maintenance is high. On the other hand, electric cars have a low cost of maintenance and other excellent features.
Conclusion
As technology improves every day, so does RC cars. They keep getting better with newer features. You can gift your child one of these vehicles or treat yourself as an adult. When you search for RC cars, ensure you do not compromise on quality, so you don’t find yourself back on the market soon or decide to abandon these fun rides entirely.
Related: check out RC Helicopters if you want to fly above ground and do not want to spend $$$ on RC drones!
