Arrma Senton vs Traxxas Slash [How Do the Short Course Trucks Compare?]

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Short course radio-controlled (RC) trucks represent one of the most popular off-road classes. Their realistic look and versatile performance make them ideal for backyards and tracks alike. Two of the leading short course models are the Arrma Senton and Traxxas Slash. But how exactly do these celebrated trucks compare?

The Senton and Slash have similarities under the shell but take slightly different approaches. The Arrma is built extra tough right from the box while the Traxxas offers unmatched aftermarket support. Understanding the differences can help you pick the right truck for your needs as a racer or basher.

In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down the designs, capabilities, durability, electronics, value, and real-world performance of the Senton and Slash. Let’s hit the dirt!

Comparison table:

Specs	Arrma Senton	Traxxas Slash
Scale	1/10	1/10
Dimensions (L x W)	21.7 x 11.6 in	22.2 x 11.3 in
Chassis	Ladder-style composite nylon	Plastic composite
Suspension	4-wheel independent	Rear solid axle
Top Speed	30+ mph	25 mph
Motor Type	Brushless, 3500Kv	Titan 12T
Shocks	Aluminum capped oil-filled	Plastic bodied oil-filled
Tires	Deep treed rubber	Low tread rubber
Electronics	80A ESC, 2.4GHz radio	30A ESC, 2.4GHz radio
Batteries Used	2S-3S LiPo	6-7 cell NiMH
Base RTR Price	$330	$250-$280
Intended Use	Racing, experienced hobbyists	Beginners, bashers
Price	Check Latest Price	Check Latest Price

Specs and Design

While both trucks share the short course form factor, there are some dimensional and design variations:

Dimensions and Scale

• Senton: 1/10 scale, 21.7 in (L) x 11.6 in (W)
• Slash: 1/10 scale, 22.2 in (L) x 11.3 in (W)

Chassis and Layout

• Senton: Ladder-style chassis with center drivetrain
• Slash: Low-slung chassis with rear drivetrain

Construction

• Senton: Composite nylon chassis and metal parts
• Slash: Plastic and composite chassis with plastic components

This gives the Senton a slight edge in robustness though the Slash is lightweight.

Stock Components

• Senton: Better quality tires, shocks, bearings
• Slash: Lower grade tires, shocks, plastic bushings

So while dimensionally similar, the Arrma features heavier-duty components out of the box.

Performance Capabilities

Driving performance also shows some differences:

Speed and Acceleration

• Senton: 30+ mph top speed with rapid throttle response
• Slash: Only 25 mph max but still quick acceleration

Handling and Maneuverability

• Senton: Very precise and nimble at speed
• Slash: Somewhat loose at high speed turns

Jumping

• Senton: Four-wheel independent suspension soaks up landings
• Slash: Firm rear suspension can lead to crashing

The Senton has the edge in controllability at the limit thanks to superior suspension design.

Stability

• Senton: Low center of gravity increases stability off jumps
• Slash: Higher center of gravity leads to more rollovers

Traction

• Senton: Deeper treed tires provide excellent grip
• Slash: Harder tires decrease traction off-road

So when pushed, the Senton remains composed where the Slash can become a handful.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability and repair factors also differ:

Suspension Robustness

• Senton: Metal shock caps and hinge pins are nearly bulletproof
• Slash: Plastic parts bend or crack from big landings

Chassis/Drivetrain Strength

• Senton: Reinforced design survives crashes with just scratches
• Slash: Exposed drivetrain leads to frequent breakages

Ease of Repair

• Senton: Simply bolts together for fixes and upgrades
• Slash: Many parts require advanced teardowns to access

Aftermarket Support

• Senton: Good parts support but not as extensive
• Slash: Massive selection of hop-up parts available

The Senton clearly wins on out-of-the-box durability. But the Slash has superior mod potential.

Electronics

The electronics packages also impact performance:

Speed Control

• Senton: Waterproof 80A ESC with programming card
• Slash: Water-resistant 30A ESC with no programming

Transmitter

• Senton: 2.4GHz radio with dual rates and trim
• Slash: Entry level 2.4GHz radio, no adjustments

Battery Support

• Senton: Compatible with 2-3S LiPo packs for tuning
• Slash: Only tested for 6-7 cell NiMH use

The Senton again is more advanced allowing tuning while the Slash is plug-and-play.

Cost Analysis

Pricing and operating costs are another consideration:

Base RTR Price

• Senton: $330 ready-to-run
• Slash: $250-$280 ready-to-run

Consumable Costs

• Senton: Very durable minimizing replacements
• Slash: Frequent tire and part replacements

Upgrade Expenses

• Senton: Few upgrades needed even at advanced levels
• Slash: Owners tend to extensively mod

While pricier upfront, the robust Senton saves in the long run. The Slash tempts owners to upgrade.

Intended Use Case Analysis

Ideal applications differ as well:

Racing

• Senton: Agility and durability make it the better racer
• Slash: Budget mod platform but not competitive out of box

Bashing

• Senton: Toughness allows big air stunts with less damage
• Slash: Fun stunt truck but not as resilient to crashes

Experience Level

• Senton: Race-ready for intermediate/advanced drivers out of box
• Slash: Beginner-friendly but requires upgrades to progress

So the Senton excels at racing and hardcore bashing where the Slash is a good training basher.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

Actual owner experiences reveal pros and cons:

Senton Pros

• Tough, durable, can take hard crashes
• Fast out of the box, great acceleration
• Handled well at high speeds

Senton Cons

• Higher initial cost
• Not as many hop-up parts available

Slash Pros

• Lower starting price point
• Huge selection of upgrades
• Great model for first-time hobbyists

Slash Cons

• Weaker plastic parts prone to breakage
• Loses control easier at full throttle

Frequently Asked Questions

How easy is it to get replacement parts for the Senton and Slash?

Both have readily available parts, but the Slash has a much wider aftermarket selection.

Can the Senton or Slash run in wet weather or snow?

Yes, their electronics are waterproofed. Use silicon grease on metal parts to prevent corrosion.

What battery packs work best for the Senton and Slash?

The Senton can handle 2S-3S LiPo packs up to 5000mAh capacity. The Slash uses 6-7 cell NiMH packs.

Are the Senton and Slash good for kids to learn on?

The Slash is better for younger beginners. The Senton has more power that requires experience to control.

How long do the tires last on each model?

The Senton tires will last many months. The Slash tires wear out or balloon quickly requiring frequent replacement.

Conclusion

While the Traxxas Slash offers unmatched upgrade potential, the Arrma Senton takes the win for out-of-the-box durability and performance. Its ruggedness lets experienced RC drivers push the truck to the limit with confidence while forgiving mistakes from new hobbyists. If you’re looking for durable racing and bashing rather than a project truck, the Senton gets the checkered flag.