Getting started in RC cars can feel overwhelming for newcomers. With so many options and features to consider, it’s tough to know where to begin. Ready-to-run (RTR) RC cars simplify the process by coming fully assembled and equipped out of the box.
RTR models let beginners skip the kit building and go straight to driving. This guide will showcase the 5 best RTR RC cars for beginners. We’ll review key considerations like pricing, quality, speed, and durability to recommend the top starter vehicles across budgets and styles.
After reading, you’ll know which pre-built RC is the ideal choice to start your hobby journey. Let’s jump right in!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Ready-to-run (RTR) RC cars come pre-assembled with everything needed to start driving immediately. All you have to do is charge the included battery pack and go. Here are some of the benefits of RTR models versus build kits for beginners:
- No assembly required – RTRs let you skip complex kit building skills. Just open the box and drive.
- Includes electronics – Comes packaged with radio, ESC, servo, charger – no separate purchases needed.
- Pre-painted body – Detailed polycarbonate body shell is beautifully painted and decaled.
- Tested and tuned – From quality brands, RTRs come adjusted for optimal handling and performance.
- Beginner focused – Many RTRs are designed for entry level use at an affordable price point.
While more advanced users may later opt for kits, RTRs provide the easiest and most complete way for newcomers to experience RC driving as soon as possible. This guide focuses specifically on high-quality beginner RTR models to remove the barrier of entry into the hobby.
Key Takeaways Upfront
Before diving into the reviews, here are some quick takeaways when choosing an RTR for beginners:
- Look for 1/10 scale 2WD vehicles to start. Easier to control than larger, faster RCs.
- Prioritize a sturdy chassis and suspension that can handle new driver mistakes.
- Battery runtimes of 10+ minutes allow decent drive time. Can upgrade later.
- Beginners need an easy to use 2-channel radio system with basic controls.
- Expect speeds of 10-30+ mph. Faster than toys, but tamer than expert race trucks.
- Pricing between $100-$300 hits the sweet spot for starter quality and value.
Keep these factors in mind while searching for your first RC. Let’s check out 5 standout options across budgets and styles.
The 5 Best Ready-to-Run RC Cars for Beginners
Remote control (RC) cars are a fun and exciting way to experience the thrill of driving without leaving the comfort of your own home. For beginners, choosing the right RC car can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing to bring you the 5 best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners.
When purchasing an RC car, it’s important to consider the type of car you want, the terrain you’ll be driving on, and your skill level. Ready-to-run (RTR) cars are a great option for beginners, as they come fully assembled and are easy to use right out of the box.
The critical thing to consider when purchasing an RC car is the type of car and its features. Some cars are designed for speed, while others are designed for off-road terrain. Size and battery life are also important factors to consider.
After testing numerous models, we have identified the 5 best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners. These cars offer a range of features and performance levels to suit different driving styles, terrains, and skill levels. So, whether you’re looking for speed or off-road capabilities, we’ve got you covered.
Best Ready-to-Run RC Cars for Beginners
We have researched and tested various ready-to-run RC cars to bring you the top 5 options for beginners. Whether you are new to the hobby or looking for an easy-to-use and affordable option, our list has something for everyone. These cars are perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of RC racing without the hassle of building a car from scratch. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners.
HYPER GO H16DR 1:16 Scale Ready to Run Fast Remote Control Car, High Speed Jump RC Monster Truck, Off Road RC Cars, 4WD All Terrain RTR RC Truck with 2 LiPo Batteries for Boys and Adults
If you want a fast and durable remote control car that can handle all types of terrain, then the HYPER GO H16DR is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The oil-filled shock absorbers provide excellent stability, making it much safer to drive at high speeds.
- With its 2S 7.4V 1050 mAh 25C LiPo battery and 390 motor, it can reach speeds of 20+ mph for adults.
- The honeycomb-designed chassis and alloy steel drive shaft make it solidly built and able to handle off-road conditions.
Cons
- The battery life only lasts for 11 minutes.
- The range is not as far as advertised, so you have to stay within 6 feet.
- Some customers have reported receiving bad customer service.
We’ve had a blast with the HYPER GO H16DR, using it to jump, pop wheelies, and do backflips. The 70% throttle limited switch is great for beginners or kids, and the smart 2S/3S ESC supports the 3S-capable power system, allowing for furious 27+ mph speeds achievable in optimum conditions using a 3S LiPo battery.
The metal ball bearings and F/R gear differential provide excellent off-road security configuration, and the LiPo with flame-retardant material shell ensures safety. We also appreciate that it comes with two LiPo batteries, making it easy to swap them out when one runs out of juice.
Overall, the HYPER GO H16DR is a fantastic remote control car that is perfect for adults and kids alike. It’s durable, fast, and can handle all types of terrain, making it a great investment for anyone looking to have some fun.
DEERC RC Car, Remote Control Monster Truck W/ 2 Batteries for 40 Min Play, All-Terrain 2.4GHz RTR Rock Crawler Toy Gift for Boys Girls Kids Beginners S767
We highly recommend purchasing the DEERC RC Car for beginners who are looking for an affordable, easy-to-use remote control car that can handle various terrains.
Pros
- The sleek truck body features exciting colors and a rigid, injection-molded rear wing for more downforce.
- The strong composite chassis balances strength, weight, and performance.
- The brushed motor reaches up to 7 mph or more under optimum conditions.
Cons
- The car does best on smooth surfaces.
- It is almost too fast for indoor use.
- The battery life is relatively short.
The DEERC RC Car is a great value for beginners who want to experience the fun of driving an RC car. The all-terrain tires offer an aggressive, chunky tread pattern for excellent traction on a wide range of surfaces. With 4 metal shock absorbers, the car can smooth out bumps for thrilling and controlled driving.
The car comes with two 500mAh high-quality rechargeable batteries, which can provide up to 40+ minutes of playtime. The USB charging cable makes it easy to charge the batteries. The 2.4GHz radio system features dependable control and a 262ft long-distance range, which allows multiple players to play at the same time.
The DEERC RC Car is a perfect entry-level RC gift for young drivers. It is easy to drive and right out of the box, so you don’t have to worry about assembly. With its low price, it is a great value for those who want to experience the thrill of RC car racing.
Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks
We highly recommend the Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks for beginners who want to experience the thrill of remote control car racing.
Pros
- The car is equipped with LED headlights and taillights, making it playable even at night.
- The car can reach a maximum speed of up to 48+km/h (30+MPH), which is comparable to brushless performance.
- The car comes with two packs of 1600mAh batteries, allowing for up to 30-40 minutes of playtime.
Cons
- The car may not be as durable as other models on the market.
- The car may require some maintenance after extended use.
- The car may not be suitable for advanced racers.
The Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks is an excellent choice for beginners who want to experience the thrill of remote control car racing. The LED headlights and taillights make the car playable even at night, while the maximum speed of up to 48+km/h (30+MPH) provides an exciting racing experience. The car also comes with two packs of 1600mAh batteries, allowing for up to 30-40 minutes of playtime.
However, the car may not be as durable as other models on the market, and it may require some maintenance after extended use. Additionally, the car may not be suitable for advanced racers who are looking for more challenging features. Overall, we believe that the Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks is an excellent choice for beginners who want to experience the thrill of remote control car racing.
TUFEZIAN RC Cars
We highly recommend the TUFEZIAN RC Cars for beginners who are looking for a fun and durable remote control car.
Pros
- The full proportional accelerator and rear wheel differential provide a realistic driving experience and make it easier to control the car.
- The car can travel up to 25 km/h and comes with two rechargeable batteries that provide more than 70 minutes of playtime.
- The 2.4GHz anti-interference control and LED headlights make it easy to operate the car and add to the cool factor.
Cons
- The car is small, so it may not be suitable for older children or adults.
- The plastic on the bottom of the car is prone to falling off, which can make it difficult to drive.
- The car can be difficult to control at high speeds, especially for beginners.
We were impressed with the TUFEZIAN RC Cars’ durability and performance. The ABS blister shell and soft tubeless tires make it resistant to damage and able to handle various terrains. The car is also a great gift for children and adults alike, thanks to its cool design and exciting features.
In summary, if you’re looking for a fun and durable remote control car that provides a realistic driving experience, the TUFEZIAN RC Cars is a great choice.
RC Monster Remote Control Car
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly RC car that’s fast and durable, the RC Monster Remote Control Car is a great option.
Pros
- The high-speed motor allows for impressive stunts and a top speed of 38+ km/h.
- The suspension damper and advanced shock absorption technology make it durable and able to handle various terrains.
- The waterproof system and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide reliable performance.
Cons
- The included directions are in Chinese, which may be difficult for some users.
- Replacement body shells may be hard to find.
- Some users have reported issues with the axles breaking after a few days of use.
We recently had the chance to test out the RC Monster Remote Control Car, and we were impressed with its performance. The high-speed motor allowed us to perform stunts like big jumps and backflips, and the suspension damper made it easy to handle rough terrain.
The waterproof system and rechargeable batteries were also a plus, as we were able to use the car for extended periods without worrying about it getting damaged or running out of power. However, we did have some trouble finding replacement body shells and noticed that the included directions were in Chinese.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fast and durable RC car that’s suitable for beginners, the RC Monster Remote Control Car is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners, there are a few things to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
1. Type of RC Car
There are several types of RC cars to choose from, including off-road, on-road, and drift cars. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs and interests.
2. Skill Level
As a beginner, it’s important to choose an RC car that matches your skill level. Look for cars that are labeled as “beginner-friendly” or “easy to use.” These cars typically have simplified controls and are less likely to break or malfunction.
3. Durability
RC cars can take a lot of wear and tear, especially if you’re using them for off-road driving or stunts. Look for cars that are made with durable materials, such as high-quality plastics or metals.
4. Battery Life
RC cars run on batteries, so it’s important to choose a car with a long battery life. Look for cars that come with rechargeable batteries or that have the option to upgrade to a higher-capacity battery.
5. Price
RC cars can range in price from under $50 to several hundred dollars. As a beginner, you may not want to invest too much money in your first car. Look for cars that are reasonably priced but still offer good quality and features.
In summary, when choosing the best ready-to-run RC car for beginners, it’s important to consider the type of car, your skill level, durability, battery life, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a car that is both fun and easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended ready-to-run RC cars for beginners?
There are a lot of great ready-to-run RC cars for beginners on the market. Some of our favorites include the Traxxas Rustler, the Axial SCX10 II, and the ECX Amp Crush. All of these cars are easy to use and offer a great balance of speed and control.
What are the differences between the Traxxas Rustler and Slash short course trucks?
The Traxxas Rustler and Slash short course trucks are both great options for beginners, but they have some key differences. The Rustler is a bit faster and more agile, while the Slash is more stable and better suited for off-road use. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of driving you plan on doing.
What factors should I consider when choosing an RC car for an adult?
When choosing an RC car for an adult, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the person’s experience level. If they’re a beginner, you’ll want to choose a car that’s easy to use and control. You’ll also want to consider the person’s interests and the type of driving they plan on doing. Finally, you’ll want to think about your budget and choose a car that fits within your price range.
What are the best beginner nitro RC cars?
Nitro RC cars are a bit more advanced than electric cars, so they may not be the best choice for beginners. However, if you’re interested in trying out a nitro car, some good options for beginners include the Traxxas Nitro Rustler and the HPI Racing Savage X 4.6.
What are some popular scales for RC cars?
There are a few different scales that are popular for RC cars, including 1/10, 1/8, and 1/5. 1/10 scale cars are a good choice for beginners, as they’re easy to handle and control. 1/8 scale cars are a bit larger and faster, while 1/5 scale cars are the largest and fastest of the three.
What is the fastest pre-built RC car on the market?
The fastest pre-built RC car on the market is the Traxxas XO-1, which can reach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. However, this car is not recommended for beginners, as it’s very fast and can be difficult to control.
The 5 Best Ready-to-Run RC Cars for Beginners
Remote control (RC) cars are a fun and exciting way to experience the thrill of driving without leaving the comfort of your own home. For beginners, choosing the right RC car can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing to bring you the 5 best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners.
When purchasing an RC car, it’s important to consider the type of car you want, the terrain you’ll be driving on, and your skill level. Ready-to-run (RTR) cars are a great option for beginners, as they come fully assembled and are easy to use right out of the box.
The critical thing to consider when purchasing an RC car is the type of car and its features. Some cars are designed for speed, while others are designed for off-road terrain. Size and battery life are also important factors to consider.
After testing numerous models, we have identified the 5 best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners. These cars offer a range of features and performance levels to suit different driving styles, terrains, and skill levels. So, whether you’re looking for speed or off-road capabilities, we’ve got you covered.
Best Ready-to-Run RC Cars for Beginners
We have researched and tested various ready-to-run RC cars to bring you the top 5 options for beginners. Whether you are new to the hobby or looking for an easy-to-use and affordable option, our list has something for everyone. These cars are perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of RC racing without the hassle of building a car from scratch. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners.
HYPER GO H16DR 1:16 Scale Ready to Run Fast Remote Control Car, High Speed Jump RC Monster Truck, Off Road RC Cars, 4WD All Terrain RTR RC Truck with 2 LiPo Batteries for Boys and Adults
If you want a fast and durable remote control car that can handle all types of terrain, then the HYPER GO H16DR is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The oil-filled shock absorbers provide excellent stability, making it much safer to drive at high speeds.
- With its 2S 7.4V 1050 mAh 25C LiPo battery and 390 motor, it can reach speeds of 20+ mph for adults.
- The honeycomb-designed chassis and alloy steel drive shaft make it solidly built and able to handle off-road conditions.
Cons
- The battery life only lasts for 11 minutes.
- The range is not as far as advertised, so you have to stay within 6 feet.
- Some customers have reported receiving bad customer service.
We’ve had a blast with the HYPER GO H16DR, using it to jump, pop wheelies, and do backflips. The 70% throttle limited switch is great for beginners or kids, and the smart 2S/3S ESC supports the 3S-capable power system, allowing for furious 27+ mph speeds achievable in optimum conditions using a 3S LiPo battery.
The metal ball bearings and F/R gear differential provide excellent off-road security configuration, and the LiPo with flame-retardant material shell ensures safety. We also appreciate that it comes with two LiPo batteries, making it easy to swap them out when one runs out of juice.
Overall, the HYPER GO H16DR is a fantastic remote control car that is perfect for adults and kids alike. It’s durable, fast, and can handle all types of terrain, making it a great investment for anyone looking to have some fun.
DEERC RC Car, Remote Control Monster Truck W/ 2 Batteries for 40 Min Play, All-Terrain 2.4GHz RTR Rock Crawler Toy Gift for Boys Girls Kids Beginners S767
We highly recommend purchasing the DEERC RC Car for beginners who are looking for an affordable, easy-to-use remote control car that can handle various terrains.
Pros
- The sleek truck body features exciting colors and a rigid, injection-molded rear wing for more downforce.
- The strong composite chassis balances strength, weight, and performance.
- The brushed motor reaches up to 7 mph or more under optimum conditions.
Cons
- The car does best on smooth surfaces.
- It is almost too fast for indoor use.
- The battery life is relatively short.
The DEERC RC Car is a great value for beginners who want to experience the fun of driving an RC car. The all-terrain tires offer an aggressive, chunky tread pattern for excellent traction on a wide range of surfaces. With 4 metal shock absorbers, the car can smooth out bumps for thrilling and controlled driving.
The car comes with two 500mAh high-quality rechargeable batteries, which can provide up to 40+ minutes of playtime. The USB charging cable makes it easy to charge the batteries. The 2.4GHz radio system features dependable control and a 262ft long-distance range, which allows multiple players to play at the same time.
The DEERC RC Car is a perfect entry-level RC gift for young drivers. It is easy to drive and right out of the box, so you don’t have to worry about assembly. With its low price, it is a great value for those who want to experience the thrill of RC car racing.
Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks
We highly recommend the Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks for beginners who want to experience the thrill of remote control car racing.
Pros
- The car is equipped with LED headlights and taillights, making it playable even at night.
- The car can reach a maximum speed of up to 48+km/h (30+MPH), which is comparable to brushless performance.
- The car comes with two packs of 1600mAh batteries, allowing for up to 30-40 minutes of playtime.
Cons
- The car may not be as durable as other models on the market.
- The car may require some maintenance after extended use.
- The car may not be suitable for advanced racers.
The Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks is an excellent choice for beginners who want to experience the thrill of remote control car racing. The LED headlights and taillights make the car playable even at night, while the maximum speed of up to 48+km/h (30+MPH) provides an exciting racing experience. The car also comes with two packs of 1600mAh batteries, allowing for up to 30-40 minutes of playtime.
However, the car may not be as durable as other models on the market, and it may require some maintenance after extended use. Additionally, the car may not be suitable for advanced racers who are looking for more challenging features. Overall, we believe that the Hosim 1:10 Large Size 48+ KMH 4WD High Speed RC Monster Trucks is an excellent choice for beginners who want to experience the thrill of remote control car racing.
TUFEZIAN RC Cars
We highly recommend the TUFEZIAN RC Cars for beginners who are looking for a fun and durable remote control car.
Pros
- The full proportional accelerator and rear wheel differential provide a realistic driving experience and make it easier to control the car.
- The car can travel up to 25 km/h and comes with two rechargeable batteries that provide more than 70 minutes of playtime.
- The 2.4GHz anti-interference control and LED headlights make it easy to operate the car and add to the cool factor.
Cons
- The car is small, so it may not be suitable for older children or adults.
- The plastic on the bottom of the car is prone to falling off, which can make it difficult to drive.
- The car can be difficult to control at high speeds, especially for beginners.
We were impressed with the TUFEZIAN RC Cars’ durability and performance. The ABS blister shell and soft tubeless tires make it resistant to damage and able to handle various terrains. The car is also a great gift for children and adults alike, thanks to its cool design and exciting features.
In summary, if you’re looking for a fun and durable remote control car that provides a realistic driving experience, the TUFEZIAN RC Cars is a great choice.
RC Monster Remote Control Car
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly RC car that’s fast and durable, the RC Monster Remote Control Car is a great option.
Pros
- The high-speed motor allows for impressive stunts and a top speed of 38+ km/h.
- The suspension damper and advanced shock absorption technology make it durable and able to handle various terrains.
- The waterproof system and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide reliable performance.
Cons
- The included directions are in Chinese, which may be difficult for some users.
- Replacement body shells may be hard to find.
- Some users have reported issues with the axles breaking after a few days of use.
We recently had the chance to test out the RC Monster Remote Control Car, and we were impressed with its performance. The high-speed motor allowed us to perform stunts like big jumps and backflips, and the suspension damper made it easy to handle rough terrain.
The waterproof system and rechargeable batteries were also a plus, as we were able to use the car for extended periods without worrying about it getting damaged or running out of power. However, we did have some trouble finding replacement body shells and noticed that the included directions were in Chinese.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fast and durable RC car that’s suitable for beginners, the RC Monster Remote Control Car is a great choice.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best ready-to-run RC cars for beginners, there are a few things to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind when making your decision:
1. Type of RC Car
There are several types of RC cars to choose from, including off-road, on-road, and drift cars. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs and interests.
2. Skill Level
As a beginner, it’s important to choose an RC car that matches your skill level. Look for cars that are labeled as “beginner-friendly” or “easy to use.” These cars typically have simplified controls and are less likely to break or malfunction.
3. Durability
RC cars can take a lot of wear and tear, especially if you’re using them for off-road driving or stunts. Look for cars that are made with durable materials, such as high-quality plastics or metals.
4. Battery Life
RC cars run on batteries, so it’s important to choose a car with a long battery life. Look for cars that come with rechargeable batteries or that have the option to upgrade to a higher-capacity battery.
5. Price
RC cars can range in price from under $50 to several hundred dollars. As a beginner, you may not want to invest too much money in your first car. Look for cars that are reasonably priced but still offer good quality and features.
In summary, when choosing the best ready-to-run RC car for beginners, it’s important to consider the type of car, your skill level, durability, battery life, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a car that is both fun and easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended ready-to-run RC cars for beginners?
There are a lot of great ready-to-run RC cars for beginners on the market. Some of our favorites include the Traxxas Rustler, the Axial SCX10 II, and the ECX Amp Crush. All of these cars are easy to use and offer a great balance of speed and control.
What are the differences between the Traxxas Rustler and Slash short course trucks?
The Traxxas Rustler and Slash short course trucks are both great options for beginners, but they have some key differences. The Rustler is a bit faster and more agile, while the Slash is more stable and better suited for off-road use. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of driving you plan on doing.
What factors should I consider when choosing an RC car for an adult?
When choosing an RC car for an adult, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the person’s experience level. If they’re a beginner, you’ll want to choose a car that’s easy to use and control. You’ll also want to consider the person’s interests and the type of driving they plan on doing. Finally, you’ll want to think about your budget and choose a car that fits within your price range.
What are the best beginner nitro RC cars?
Nitro RC cars are a bit more advanced than electric cars, so they may not be the best choice for beginners. However, if you’re interested in trying out a nitro car, some good options for beginners include the Traxxas Nitro Rustler and the HPI Racing Savage X 4.6.
What are some popular scales for RC cars?
There are a few different scales that are popular for RC cars, including 1/10, 1/8, and 1/5. 1/10 scale cars are a good choice for beginners, as they’re easy to handle and control. 1/8 scale cars are a bit larger and faster, while 1/5 scale cars are the largest and fastest of the three.
What is the fastest pre-built RC car on the market?
The fastest pre-built RC car on the market is the Traxxas XO-1, which can reach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. However, this car is not recommended for beginners, as it’s very fast and can be difficult to control.
Reviews of the Best RTR RC Cars for Beginners
1. Redcat Racing Volcano EPX
Specs
- Scale: 1/10
- Power: Electric brushless
- Top Speed: 30+ mph
- Runtime: 10 mins
- Ground Clearance: 1.3 in
- Operating Surface: Off-road
- Price: $$$
Redcat Racing makes the excellent Volcano EPX as a perfect introduction to hobby-grade RC driving. It’s durably constructed yet affordable, while still offering strong brushless power.
This 1/10 short course truck is ready for off-road action. Traction from the versatile tires and ample ground clearance allow navigating grass, dirt, gravel, and more. A flexible polycarbonate body withstands new driver bumps and crashes during training.
A waterproof brushless motor provides surprising speed bursts over 30 mph. Expect up to 10 minutes per charge which is ample time for learning the controls. An easy to use pistol grip radio helps newcomers get comfortable steering and operating the truck.
For those wanting an uncomplicated yet fast off-roader at a reasonable cost, the Volcano EPX hits all the marks for a first RC. It provides a thrilling experience with quality components that will last.
Overall
The Redcat Racing Volcano EPX is an excellent starter truck with off-road performance beyond its price point. Strong value for newcomers wanting a durable, fast electric model.
2. Arrma Granite Voltage
Specs
- Scale: 1/10
- Power: Electric brushed
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Runtime: 10 mins
- Ground clearance: 1.8 in
- Operating surface: Off-road
- Price: $$
As the entry point into Arrma’s rugged vehicle lineup, the Granite Voltage makes an ideal first RC. This 1/10 scale monster truck can traverse a wide range of off-road conditions thanks to meaty tires and ample ride height.
It uses a basic yet proven brushed motor and drivetrain for easy maintenance and parts availability. Handling is made fun by the 4WD system taking on rough terrain. Despite its affordable pricing, nothing feels cheap or breakable on the Granite Voltage.
With waterproof electronics and a flexible adventure-themed body, the Granite can take abuse from new drivers and keep going. Decent runtime from the included NiMH battery gives new users time to get comfortable behind the wheel. An ergonomic transmitter provides basic control of the truck.
For a confidence-inspiring off-road basher, the Arrma Granite Voltage delivers excellent capabilities without overwhelming beginners. It’s the perfect model to learn RC driving techniques without immediate fear of breakage.
Overall
The Arrma Granite Voltage lives up to its reputation as an ideal starter RC truck. With 4WD grip and rugged parts, it’s ready for off-road adventures at an affordable budget.
3. Traxxas Slash
Specs
- Scale: 1/10
- Power: Electric brushed
- Top speed: 30 mph
- Runtime: 10 mins
- Ground clearance: 1.6 in
- Operating surface: Off-road
- Price: $$$
It’s impossible to discuss beginner RC without mentioning the venerable Traxxas Slash. This short course truck launched countless driving careers with its proven durability and performance. While many iterations exist now, the standard Slash remains widely available.
Traxxas quality shines through in the Slash’s components like its responsive Titan 12T motor and waterproof XL-5 ESC. Beefy suspension arms and shocks absorb big hits while still offering responsive handling. The included 2-channel radio has ample range and programming options for growing into.
While longevity and parts support make the Slash an easy recommendation, it does command a price premium. However, you get what you pay for with typical Traxxas refinement. This RC icon still delivers one of the best overall experiences for first timers.
Overall
The reputation of the Traxxas Slash speaks for itself. Newcomers benefit from its durable parts, vast upgrades, and excellent community support. A premium option worth the investment.
4. Team Associated SC28
Specs
- Scale: 1/28
- Power: Electric brushed
- Top speed: 20 mph
- Runtime: 15 mins
- Ground clearance: .5 in
- Operating surface: On-road/hard surfaces
- Price: $
For those with smaller spaces or wanting a more affordable starter model, look no further than the Team Associated SC28. This 1/28 scale RC delivers big fun in a tiny, durable package ready for indoor use.
Its compact size and smooth foam tires make it ideal for tile, hardwood, or carpet inside a home or office. An included plastic cone course provides a fun practice driving challenge. Despite its micro size, the SC28 still hits 20+ mph thanks to a6000 rpm motor – not bad for a $50 car!
With nippy handling and a lightweight body that flexes from crashes, the SC28 is perfect for adults and kids alike. It makes RC driving possible almost anywhere with minimal space. The basic pistol grip radio helps dial in car control.
Overall
The Team Associated SC28 opens RC driving and racing to anyone with its micro size and mild manners. A perfect learner model for small spaces and budgets.
5. LaTrax Teton
Specs
- Scale: 1/18
- Power: Electric brushed
- Top speed: 10 mph
- Runtime: 10 mins
- Ground clearance: 1.25 in
- Operating surface: Off-road
- Price: $
As the most affordable RTR on our list, the LaTrax Teton from Traxxas still packs great value and fun into a micro scale starter truck. Don’t let its small 1/18 size fool you – the nimble Teton can scamper over off-road terrain and even handles wet conditions.
While slower than larger models at 10 mph, it provides a perfect taste of RC capabilities in a virtually unbreakable package. Its lightweight body absorbs abuse while still providing grip on loose dirt. An 1800mAh battery supplies 10 minutes of drive time – ample duration for youngsters to grasp the controls.
For the price, it’s impossible to beat the LaTrax Teton as an inexpensive introduction to RC. The included transmitter has basic controls and adjustable settings to help learn proper driving techniques.
Overall
The LaTrax Teton punches far above its mini price tag, packing legitimate RC performance into a tiny off-road truck perfect for kids and cramped spaces alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the easiest RTR cars for beginners to drive?
The Redcat Volcano EPX, Arrma Granite Voltage, and Traxxas Slash stand out with proven platforms optimized for newcomers. Sturdy parts and 2WD layouts make controlling easier.
What scale RC is best suited for beginners?
For a first RC car, 1/10 scale models like the Arrma Granite or Traxxas Slash provide the best combination of stability and reasonable speed. Larger scales can be unwieldy while smaller scales feel less realistic.
How much does a good RTR RC car cost?
Entry level RTR cars suitable for beginners range from $100 to $300. At under $200, models like the Redcat Volcano provide great value. Expect to spend closer to $300 for top brands like Traxxas.
How fast should a beginner’s RTR car be?
Look for RTR cars with top speeds in the 10 to 30 mph range. While not insanely fast, this provides a fun sense of speed and acceleration without being too frightening for novice drivers.
How long will a beginner RTR RC car last?
Quality RTR models from leading brands should provide years of use when properly maintained. Prioritize durable chassis and components. Upgrade any weak points as skills improve.
Closing Thoughts
From stomping through the backyard to small indoor courses, RC cars provide big thrills in controllable packages. We hope these RTR RC reviews remove some uncertainty during the exciting process of choosing your first model.
Keep in mind your available space, budget, and interest in on-road versus off-road driving. Find an RTR that fits your needs and driving style. Then get ready to embrace the fun hobby of RC vehicles!
Don’t hesitate to ask local hobby shops for advice too. With your new car in hand, enjoy stunning performance right out of the box. Happy bashing!