what is the Best Entry Level RC Cars? [in 2024]

Last Updated on March 3, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) cars are a fun and exciting hobby for both kids and adults. They allow you to race high-speed vehicles in your backyard or neighborhood. RC cars have become more advanced in recent years, with faster speeds and better maneuverability. But getting started with RC cars can also be daunting, especially if you’re new to the hobby. Choosing the right entry-level RC car is key to learning how to control an RC car and enjoy the hobby without breaking the bank.

 This article will explore some of the best entry-level RC cars available today. We’ll look at important factors to consider when choosing your first RC car. You’ll also find reviews of specific starter RC cars that are ideal for beginners.

Top Entry Level RC Cars

Model	Type	Scale	Speed	Power	Radio	Terrain	Features	Price
Redcat Volcano EPX	Monster truck	1/10	20 mph	Electric brushed	2.4GHz	Off-road	Waterproof, AWD	$150
Losi Mini-T 2.0	Stadium truck	1/18	25 mph	Brushed	2.4GHz	On-road	Fully waterproof, LiPo battery included	$140
Arrma Granite Voltage	Monster truck	1/10	20 mph	Electric brushed	2.4GHz	Off-road	TSM stability control, waterproof	$160
Traxxas Rustler 4×4	Stadium truck	1/10	35 mph	Titan 12T brushed	TQi 2.4GHz	Off-road	Waterproof, traction control	$250
ECX Amp MT	Monster truck	1/10	20 mph	Brushed electric	2.4GHz	Off-road	Waterproof, modular design	$180
Team Losi Mini-B 2.0	Buggy	1/14	20 mph	Brushed	2.4GHz	On-road	RTR model	$80
Traxxas Latrax Rally	Rally car	1/18	18 mph	Brushed electric	TQi 2.4GHz	On/Off-road	Stability control, LiPo battery included	$130
Team Associated SC28	Short course truck	1/28	20 mph	Brushed	2.4GHz	Off-road	Water resistant, RTR package	$100

What is an RC Car?

An RC car is a model car that is controlled remotely, usually with a hand-held transmitter. The transmitter sends signals to a receiver inside the car that controls the motor and servos. This allows the driver to accelerate, brake, and steer the car from a distance. RC cars are powered by batteries and can reach speeds anywhere from 10 to over 70 mph depending on the model. They come in many different sizes, from 1/24 micro models to 1/5 scale models that are over 2 feet long. RC cars can be driven on all kinds of surfaces, from backyard tracks and parking lots to specialized race courses. They provide an immersive driving experience and realistic performance in a miniaturized package.

Benefits of RC Cars

There are many benefits to getting into RC cars as a hobby:

• Exciting racing action – Nothing beats the thrill of running a high performance racing machine at wide open throttle. RC cars provide adrenaline pumping excitement.
• Learn driving skills – Controlling an RC car helps develop real driving skills like throttle modulation, weight transfer, and line choice.
• Tinkering and customization – RC cars provide ample opportunity to experiment with setups and customize your vehicle.
• Bonding with others – RC racing allows you to meet other enthusiasts and bond over a shared interest.
• Affordable compared to real racing – Getting started in RC only requires a fraction of the cost of real racing.

As you can see, RC cars make for a rewarding and relatively inexpensive hobby. The barrier for entry is low when starting out with an entry-level model.

Things to Consider When Buying Your First RC Car

If you’re new to the hobby, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind when choosing your first RC car:

• Type of car – Buggies, trucks, and short course trucks are good beginner friendly options. Avoid ultra fast models to start.
• Scale – 1/10 scale models are the most common entry level size. Bigger 1/8 models can be faster and harder to control.
• Speed – Look for a car with a top speed around 20 mph. Speeds over 30 mph may be difficult to handle as a beginner.
• Terrain – Consider what surfaces you plan to run on – asphalt, dirt, grass, or a mix. Some models are optimized for particular terrains.
• Skill level – Choose a RC car made for novices and ensure it comes with beginner modes like training modes or limiters.
• Features – Beginner friendly features include four wheel drive, stability control, and durable components.
• Price – With your first car, aim for a budget of around $100-200 to keep costs down while you learn.

Choosing an entry-level RC car does not need to be confusing if you focus on easy to drive beginner models. Now let’s look at some of the top starter RC cars available.

Top Entry Level RC Cars

Here are my top picks for beginner RC cars that won’t break the bank:

1. Redcat Racing Volcano EPX Truck

The Redcat Racing Volcano EPX electric truck is one of the most popular entry-level models. Here’s an overview of its key features:

• Type – 1/10 scale monster truck
• Speed – Up to 20 mph out of the box
• Power – Electric brushed motor
• Control – 2.4GHz radio system
• Terrain – Best for off-road use
• Features – Waterproof electronics, all wheel drive
• Price – Around $150 RTR (ready to run)

This affordable truck is optimized for off-road bashing around the backyard or park. It’s rugged enough to withstand inevitable crashes as you learn. The waterproof electronics add durability for running in wet conditions. While fast enough for excitement, the top speed remains manageable for RC beginners. This ready to run package comes with everything needed get started bashing right out of the box. Overall, the Redcat Volcano EPX is a great first truck priced for new RC drivers.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Waterproof electronics add durability
• Optimized for off-road use
• Easy to control speed for beginners

Cons:

• Shorter runtime than expensive models
• Less powerful than upgrades
• Smaller scale than 1/8 trucks
• Needs regular maintenance

2. Losi Mini-T 2.0 RTR

If you’re looking for an on-road starter RC car, the Losi Mini-T 2.0 is a top choice. Details include:

• Type – 1/18 scale stadium truck
• Speed – Up to 25 mph
• Power – Brushed motor
• Control – 2.4GHz radio
• Terrain – Best on paved surfaces
• Features – Fully assembled RTR, LiPo battery included
• Price – Around $140

This mini stadium truck is designed for on-road use on parking lots and smooth surfaces. With its scaled down size, the Mini-T 2.0 is easier to control for RC newbies compared to a larger 1/10 scale. The electronics are fully waterproof for running on wet pavement. A 7.2V LiPo battery and charger are included along with the 2.4GHz radio system. This makes it a hassle-free ready to run package right out of the box. While still reaching speeds of up to 25 mph, the smaller footprint helps keep control manageable for beginners. Overall, the Mini-T 2.0 hits a nice sweet spot for an affordable, entry-level on-road RC car.

Pros:

• Scaled down size improves control
• Fully waterproof electronics
• LiPo battery included
• Specifically designed for on-road use

Cons:

• Small scale limits customization
• Less runtime than bigger batteries
• Low ground clearance not suited for off-road
• Top heavy design tips easily

3. Arrma Granite Voltage Monster Truck

Here’s one final truck worth considering as your first RC car:

• Type – 1/10 scale monster truck
• Speed – Up to 20 mph
• Power – Brushed electric
• Control – 2.4Ghz radio
• Terrain – Off-road use
• Features – TSM stability control, waterproof
• Price – Around $160

The Arrma Granite Voltage brings stability control to the entry-level RC segment. This makes it easier to control at high speed for beginners. TSM stability control also allows you to perform stunts and jumps while helping keep the truck under control. It has a more powerful brushed motor than comparable stadium trucks. This delivers an exciting 20 mph max speed on 2S LiPo power. Waterproof electronics allow running through wet conditions and grass. Overall, the Arrma Granite Voltage has innovative tech not often found on starter RC cars.

Pros:

• Stability control assists handling
• Waterproof for all conditions
• Powerful 20mph top speed
• TSM allows stunts at speed

Cons:

• Still can tip at high speeds
• Short 10-15 minute runtime
• Low grip tires sacrifice on-road handling
• Doesn’t include LiPo charger

4. Traxxas Rustler 4×4

The Traxxas Rustler 4×4 is a fantastic ready-to-run stadium truck perfect for introductory off-road RC fun. Key details include:

• Type – 1/10 scale stadium truck
• Speed – Up to 35mph!
• Power – Titan 12-turn brushed motor
• Control – TQi 2.4GHz radio
• Terrain – Off-road use
• Features – Waterproof, traction control
• Price – Around $250 RTR

As a name brand in RC, Traxxas offers proven performance and quality with the Rustler 4×4. It has one of the fastest top speeds of any entry-level truck at over 30mph. Waterproof electronics allow you to bash through puddles and muddy conditions. The TQi transmitter and XL-5 ESC provide adjustment and control options as you advance. While priced above some competitors, the Rustler 4×4 is a worthwhile starter truck backed by Traxxas’ support and parts availability.

Pros:

• Fast 30+ mph top speed
• Traxxas name brand quality
• Waterproof for wet bashing
• Highly customizable and upgradable

Cons:

• Most expensive truck reviewed
• Fast top end challenges beginners
• Short runtime with stock battery
• Low grip tires sacrifice on-road traction

5. ECX Amp MT Monster Truck

For a basic bash-around first truck, check out the ECX Amp MT from Horizon Hobby:

• Type – 1/10 scale monster truck
• Speed – Up to 20mph
• Power – Brushed electric motor
• Control – 2.4GHz radio
• Terrain – Off-road
• Features – Waterproof, modular design
• Price – Around $180

As an affordable off-roader, the ECX Amp MT delivers strong value for the price. It’s ready to run out of the box with a quick change battery system for convenience. The simple sealed radio box design keeps things running even in wet conditions. Parts are easily swapped thanks to the modular chassis and electronics mounts. While speed and runtime may be less than pricier models, the ECX Amp MT has all the necessities for bashing around the backyard at a budget friendly price point.

Pros:

• Most affordable truck option
• Waterproof electronics standard
• Modular design easy to work on
• Parts widely available

Cons:

• Less power than pricier options
• Runtime limited to 10 minutes
• Small scale limits top speed
• Lower overall robustness

6. Team Losi Mini-B 2.0

The Team Losi Mini-B 2.0 makes a nice on-road complement to the Mini-T truck:

• Type – 1/14 scale buggy
• Speed – Up to 20mph
• Power – Brushed motor
• Control – 2.4GHz radio
• Terrain – On-road use
• Features – Fully assembled RTR
• Price – Around $80

As one of the smallest and most affordable options, the Mini-B 2.0 is a great value starter on-road RC. The 2.4GHz radio helps prevent interference while driving around others. An easy to access battery compartment makes swapping batteries a breeze. While runtime and top speed are limited, its tiny size and price make the Mini-B 2.0 one of the most versatile beginner friendly buggies.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable starter model
• Compact 1/14 scale size
• Quick battery changes
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Low top speed and runtime
• Not waterproof
• Small scale leaves little room for error
• Low ground clearance limits off-road use

Tips for Beginners

As a newcomer to RC cars, here are some useful tips to help you get started:

Take it Slow

• Resist the urge to go full throttle immediately. Learn at slower speeds to get used to controlling your new RC car.

Find a Good Location

• Start in a wide open area without obstacles, people, or breakables. An empty parking lot or park area works well.

Check Settings

• For your first run, ensure speed limiters or training modes are activated if your RC has them.

Get Familiar with Controls

• Spend time early on getting comfortable with the transmitter controls at low speeds.

Keep it Stock

• Don’t start modifying or upgrading your first car until you become experienced at handling the stock setup.

Prepare Spares

• Have spare parts like propellers or bumpers on hand. Crashes happen when learning.

Have Fun!

• Stay patient and focused on enjoying yourself as you learn. Don’t worry if you’re not perfect right away.

Following these tips will help ensure your entry into RC car driving is safe, affordable, and fun as you get started in the hobby.

Frequently Asked Questions

What accessories will I need to get started?

At minimum, you will need a charger for the included battery along with 4 AA batteries for the transmitter. It’s also a good idea to purchase extra batteries and a battery charging bag.

How fast can entry-level RC cars go?

Most ready-to-run entry-level RC cars have a top speed around 20-30 mph. This provides moderate speeds for new drivers to learn on. Faster speeds are possible with upgrades.

How long does the battery last?

Run time depends on the battery capacity, but expect 8-20 minutes per charge on most entry-level RCs before needing to swap batteries. Higher capacity batteries will provide longer run times.

What’s the difference between on-road and off-road RC cars?

On-road cars have lower ground clearance and firm suspension optimized for smoother asphalt or concrete. Off-road cars have higher ground clearance and softer suspension built for rough terrain.

Should I start with nitro or electric power?

For beginners, electric RCs are highly recommended over nitro powered models. Electric requires less maintenance and is easier to learn on.

How durable are RC cars for beginners?

Entry-level RC cars are built with durability in mind including plastic chassis and modular components. Parts like bumpers are designed to absorb impacts from crashes.

Is it OK to run in wet conditions?

Many affordable starter RC cars now come with waterproof electronics. This allows new drivers to run in wet grass, rain, and snow without worrying about damage.

How much does it cost to get started in RC?

You can get started for around $100-200 for a ready-to-run starter car. Additional costs will come from extra batteries, chargers, and replacement parts.

Conclusion

RC cars make for an action-packed hobby that provides hours of fun. Advancements in recent years have made RC vehicles more approachable than ever for beginners thanks to better controls, stability assistance, and rugged designs. When choosing your first RC car, look for an entry-level model geared for novices. Focus on electric power, moderate speeds, and budget-friendly ready-to-run packages.

Consider both on-road and off-road styles to match how you plan to drive. With a bit of patience, an entry-level RC car will provide an enjoyable introduction the hobby as you learn the basics of handling these exciting machines. Just be sure to start slow and prioritize having a blast above all else.