1/8 vs 1/10 Scale RC Cars [Which One Should You Choose?]

Last Updated on September 16, 2023 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) cars have been around since the 1960s, providing decades of fun for hobbyists. From early prototypes to today’s high-performance vehicles, RC cars allow drivers to experience the thrill of racing without ever leaving the ground. Two of the most popular scales of RC cars are 1/8 and 1/10. But which one is right for you?

1/8 scale RC cars are the larger of the two, with more power and speed capabilities. The large size allows for more detailed design and functionality. 1/10 scale RC cars are smaller and lighter, making them more agile and easier to control. They are also more affordable and better suited for tighter tracks.

Below we’ll explore the key differences between these two platforms and provide recommendations on choosing the best scale for your needs and experience level.

comparison table for 1/8 vs 1/10 scale RC cars:

Features	1/8 Scale RC Cars	1/10 Scale RC Cars
Size	16-18 inches long	11-13 inches long
Weight	8-12 lbs	2-3 lbs
Top Speed	60+ mph	25-40 mph
Motor Type	Gas or electric up to 5,000W	Electric 550-3,000W
Popular Classes	1/8 Pro Class	Stadium Truck Class
Track Size Needed	Minimum 12ft wide x 50ft long	As small as 5ft x 20ft
Durability	Very durable for outdoor use	More vulnerable to damage
Cost	$500+ for basic kit, $2,000+ for high-end race builds	$200+ for basic kit, $1,000+ for high-end race builds
Ease of Control	More difficult, requires experience	Easier for beginners to pick up
Parts Availability	Extensive selection of aftermarket parts	Decent availability but fewer options
Transportation/Storage	Large size makes transport and storage difficult	Compact and easy to transport
Competition Level	Ideal for advanced competitive racers	Great for backyard and club competition
Price	Check Latest Price	Check Latest Price

Main Differences Between 1/8 and 1/10 Scale RC Cars

There are several major differences between 1/8 and 1/10 scale that influence their performance and application:

Size and Weight

• 1/8 scale cars are large, with lengths of 16 to 18 inches and weights of 8 to 12 pounds.
• 1/10 scale cars are much smaller, typically 11 to 13 inches long and weighing just 2 to 3 pounds.

The larger size and weight of 1/8 cars make them harder to maneuver but also more stable at high speeds. The small size of 1/10 cars allows them to be more agile.

Speed and Power

• 1/8 scale cars can reach speeds over 60 mph thanks to very powerful gas engines or large electric motors up to 5,000 watts.
• 1/10 cars usually top out at 40 mph or less with smaller 550-3000 watt motors.

This gives 1/8th scale a clear advantage in sheer speed and acceleration. But the power can also make them more difficult to control.

Parts Availability

• 1/8 scale RC cars have been around for decades, so there is a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories to mod or repair them.
• 1/10 scale is newer and has fewer options, though still decent availability.

This makes repairs and upgrades easier with 1/8 scale. But 1/10 is catching up as it gains popularity.

Cost

• 1/8 scale RC cars have pricetags starting around $500 for ready-to-run kits. With engines and high-end electronics, costs can exceed $2,000.
• 1/10 scale RCs start at just $200 for ready-to-run and rarely exceed $1000 even for top racers.

The smaller size and power of 1/10 scale makes them a more budget-friendly way to start. 1/8 scale requires a serious investment upfront.

Track Size

• 1/8 scale cars need large tracks at least 12 feet wide and over 50 feet long to have room to reach full speed and maneuver.
• 1/10 cars can happily run on tracks half that size, even small backyard courses.

This makes 1/10 scale better suited to areas without access to a large track or racing venue. Backyards and small spaces are fine.

Competition Classes

• 1/8 scale has its own dedicated race class at most tracks and events. This is their “home” territory.
• 1/10 cars usually compete in the stadium truck class, though may have open classes at club tracks.

Those interested in competitive racing may prefer 1/8 scale as their “pro” class with more events and greater participation.

How to Choose Between 1/8 and 1/10 Scale

With the major differences covered, what is the best way to decide which scale is right for your needs? Here are some of the top factors to consider:

Track Availability and Size

What track options are available near you? Is a large professional-level track nearby or will you be limited to backyard courses? The size of available tracks will dictate which scale can reach its full potential.

Budget and Cost Considerations

1/10 scale is the clear choice for anyone on a tight budget. The low cost to get started and operate makes this the ideal scale for kids or casual hobbyists. 1/8 scale requires a major investment upfront and ongoing, but may pay off long-term for dedicated racers.

Competition Interest

Those who plan to compete regularly, especially at an advanced level, will want to run 1/8 scale since this is the competitive class. Backyard and club racers can enjoy friendly competition in either scale.

Part Availability

Since they’ve been around longer, 1/8 scale has an edge on parts availability. But 1/10 is quickly catching up. For rare vehicles, custom builds, or the latest cutting-edge parts, 1/8 still has the most options.

Skill Level

Larger 1/8 scale cars can be difficult for less experienced drivers to handle at full speed and require caution. 1/10 scale is better suited to novices and younger drivers as an easier platform to learn on before moving up.

Pros and Cons of Each Scale

Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both scales can make the choice clearer:

1/8 Scale RC Car Advantages:

• Top speed and acceleration
• Larger selection of aftermarket parts
• Dedicated competitive class
• Impressive size and appearance
• More durable for outdoor use

1/8 Scale RC Car Disadvantages:

• Very expensive to purchase and maintain
• Challenging for new drivers to control
• Requires large dedicated track
• Not convenient for transportation or storage

1/10 Scale RC Car Advantages:

• Lower cost to purchase and operate
• Easier to control for beginners
• Compact size makes transport and storage simple
• Parts still readily available
• Can run on small backyard tracks

1/10 Scale RC Car Disadvantages:

• Slower top speeds than 1/8 scale
• Fewer aftermarket modification options
• Limited to stadium truck competition class
• Small parts can be easily lost or broken

Conclusion and Recommendations

Choosing between 1/8 and 1/10 scale RC cars largely depends on your planned use. For those with access to a large track who want maximum speed and competitive class racing, 1/8 scale is the winner. Drivers on a budget or with smaller available track areas will prefer the smaller, more nimble 1/10 scale.

Novices are best served starting with 1/10 scale as they build skills. 1/8 can be stepped up to later as an advanced platform. Casual hobbyists will find 1/10 scale a better fit for backyard fun rather than large investments and track time required by 1/8 scale.

Whichever you choose, make sure to leave room in your garage – chances are you’ll want one of each scale in your collection soon!