Last Updated on December 15, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

RC (remote control) cars are a fun hobby for enthusiasts of all ages. They allow you to race at high speeds, perform stunts and climb over all kinds of challenging terrain. All terrain RC cars are designed to handle a wide variety of surfaces including dirt, gravel, grass and even snow. Their large treaded tires provide traction and their waterproof electronics allow them to run through mud and shallow water.

Our Top 4 picks

Model	Type	Skill Level	Runtime	Ground Clearance	Waterproof	Price
[OVERALL BEST] Traxxas TRX-4	Scale Crawler	Advanced	30 min+	2.4 in	Yes	CHECK LATEST PRICE
[BIGGENER CHOICE] Redcat Everest-10	Scale Crawler	Beginner	20 min	1.9 in	Yes	CHECK LATEST PRICE
[POPULAR] Arrma Granite Voltage	Monster Truck	Intermediate	15 min	1.9 in	Partial	CHECK LATEST PRICE
Losi Night Crawler SE	Scale Crawler	Intermediate	30 min+	2.2 in	Yes	CHECK LATEST PRICE

When choosing an all terrain RC car, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Durability – A good all terrain car needs to withstand crashes, rolls and exposure to the elements. Models made from strong materials like aluminum, composite plastics and waterproof electronics hold up best.
• Ground clearance – The higher a car’s ground clearance, the better it can clear obstacles and not get hung up on terrain changes. Look for models with at least 2-3 inches of clearance.
• Tires – Large, deep treaded tires provide maximum traction. Tires filled with lightweight foam help them conform to uneven terrain.
• Waterproofing – Waterproof electronics allow driving through mud, snow and shallow water. Models rated for full water immersion can even be driven underwater.
• Speed and power – More powerful motors and higher voltage batteries provide faster acceleration and higher top speeds. Consider how you’ll use the car – higher speeds often come at the expense of control and runtime.

With the right all terrain RC car, you’ll be able to drive just about anywhere and take on all kinds of challenging obstacle courses. Here are some of the best options currently available:

Top All Terrain RC Cars

Traxxas TRX-4

The Traxxas TRX-4 is one of the most capable and customizable RC rock crawlers available. It’s designed to conquer tough terrain like a real 4×4 truck.

Overview

• Durable chassis – The TRX-4 features a rigid ladder frame chassis made from 3mm thick anodized aluminum. Heavy duty skidplates protect the underside from impacts.
• High ground clearance – Massive tires and a 2.4 inch minimum ground clearance allow driving over large obstacles.
• Portal axles – Portal gear differentials get the axles up high for increased clearance. They also provide extra torque.
• Waterproof electronics – The servo, receiver box and ESC are all fully waterproof for driving through water and mud.

Pros

• Tough and durable for off-road use
• Excellent crawling performance on rocks and uneven terrain
• Highly customizable with many hop-up parts available
• 2-speed transmission provides precise low speed crawling

Cons

• Very expensive compared to other RC models
• Crawling can be slow – not the best for high speed running
• Heavy weight makes it unwieldy for younger drivers

The Traxxas TRX-4 is the top choice for serious RC crawling enthusiasts who need maximum capability and customization options.

Redcat Racing Everest-10

The Redcat Racing Everest-10 combines performance, durability and affordability. It’s a great value scale crawler-style electric RC car.

Overview

• Realistic truck body – The Everest-10 features a detailed Bronco SUV style lexan body on a 10th scale chassis.
• 4WD drivetrain – 4 wheel drive with front and rear gear differentials provide traction and climbing ability.
• Waterproof electronics – Waterproof receiver box, servo and ESC allow driving through shallow water and mud.

Pros

• Good performance for the price
• Durable composite frame and metal gear differentials
• Waterproofing for all weather use
• Easy to work on and upgrade

Cons

• Lacks high-end upgrades and hop-ups
• Shorter runtime vs premium models
• Only 1.9 inches of ground clearance

For RC crawling on a budget, the Redcat Racing Everest-10 delivers impressive terrain handling at a fraction of the cost of high-end models.

Arrma Granite Voltage

The Arrma Granite Voltage is a fast, bashable monster truck well suited for all kinds of off-road terrain.

Overview

• Durable construction – The Granite features a flexible composite chassis and heavy duty shock towers. It’s designed for hard crashes and abuse.
• Big power – The 3200KV brushless motor provides fast acceleration and high speeds up to 45mph. The 60A ESC delivers clean, efficient power.
• Versatile tires – Large lug tires work well on most surfaces. Foam inserts allow them to conform to uneven terrain.

Pros

• Fast and powerful for thrilling speed runs
• Tough and flexible materials withstand abuse
• Simple design is easy to repair and upgrade
• Works well on grass, dirt, gravel and other surfaces

Cons

• Not a precise crawler – tends to be twitchy at low speeds
• Runtime is limited to about 15 minutes per charge
• Not fully waterproof without added seals

With its durability and big power, the Arrma Granite Voltage excels at high speed trail running and general off-road bashing.

Losi Night Crawler SE

The Losi Night Crawler SE is purpose-built for serious nighttime rock crawling expeditions.

Overview

• Night optimized – Comes with LED headlights, taillights and underglow lighting for illuminating the path ahead.
• 4WD performance – Independent front and rear suspension, front dig servos and locking differentials provide grip and articulation.
• Spectrum radio – Includes a 2.4GHz 2-channel radio with AVC stability control built in.

Pros

• Lighting allows driving in complete darkness
• Tuned specifically for slow, technical night crawling
• Spectrum radio with AVC is high quality
• Durable composite chassis handles abuse

Cons

• Less capable for faster daytime trail running
• Factory build quality issues reported on some models
• Very expensive for what you get

The Losi Night Crawler SE is ideal for dedicated night crawling enthusiasts who need advanced performance and visibility.

Axial SCX10 III

The Axial SCX10 III is a high performance scale crawler designed for technical rock crawling and traversing harsh terrain.

Overview

• Highly detailed Jeep Wrangler SCX10 III body with lights
• Portal axles for more ground clearance and torque
• AR44 locked axles front and rear
• DIG digitally controlled transmission

Pros

• Extremely capable articulation and slow speed control
• Many aluminum parts for durability
• Tons of tuning and customization options
• Excellent crawling performance right out of the box

Cons

• Very expensive
• Not a basher – only suited for slow technical driving
• Many parts require frequent replacement

With its huge range of tuning options and spectacular crawling abilities, the Axial SCX10 III is the choice for dedicated hobbyists. But its high cost and maintenance deter more casual RC drivers.

Team Associated CR12

The Team Associated CR12 is an impressively fast competition-ready electric 4WD short course truck.

Overview

• 1/12th scale short course truck
• Modular tub chassis design
• Reedy power system with 3300Kv brushless motor
• Dual slipper clutch transmission

Pros

• Incredibly fast and agile performance
• Race-proven 4WD design
• NT1 tires provide great traction
• Made for high abuse racing action

Cons

• Short 5-10 minute runtime
• Very small scale can be hard to control
• Not suitable for slow technical driving

The Team Associated CR12 is purpose-built for short course racing rather than general trail bashing or crawling. But it’s a thrilling choice for RC racing enthusiasts.

HPI Venture FJ Cruiser

The HPI Venture FJ Cruiser accurately replicates Toyota’s iconic off-road SUV in RC form.

Overview

• 1/10th scale replica of the Toyota FJ Cruiser
• Waterproof electronics throughout
• Front and rear gear differentials
• Headlights and taillights

Pros

• Highly detailed and realistic body / interior
• Great performance on trails and light crawling
• Waterproof for all weather bashing
• Parts support from HPI

Cons

• Lower quality materials than premium brands
• Limited tuning adjustments
• Motor / ESC combo lacks power

While it can’t match high-end crawlers, the HPI Venture FJ Cruiser provides a scale crawling experience at a more affordable price point.

Things to Consider When Buying an All Terrain RC Car

When selecting the right all terrain RC car, there are a few important factors to consider:

Intended Use

• Trail running – Look for durability, speed and decent ground clearance. Monster trucks like the Arrma Granite are good for trail running.
• Technical crawling – Precise 4WD platforms like the TRX-4 allow picking your path over obstacles.
• Bashing – Prioritize durability and repairability. The Redcat Everest-10 is very bashable.
• Racing – Speed, acceleration and handling are key. Choose a competition-ready stadium truck.

Budget

• $100-200 – Good entry level models like the Redcat Everest-10. Limited upgrade options.
• $300-500 – Mid range offerings from Traxxas, Arrma and Losi. Great performance for the price.
• $500+ – High end crawling trucks like the TRX-4. Ultimate performance and customization.

Skill Level

• Beginner – RTR (ready-to-run) models with 2.4GHz radios are good for new drivers. AVC stability control also helps.
• Intermediate – Look for tuning adjustments like multiple gear settings. Rear steer is great for precise crawling.
• Advanced – Highly customizable kits offer things like dig servos and locker differentials to maximize performance.

Parts Availability

• Consider how easy it is to get replacement parts – Traxxas, Arrma and Losi all have great parts support.
• Upgrade parts are important too. The TRX-4 has tons of hop-ups available.
• Check forums to see what others report about parts for a given model.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cheap all terrain RC car?

The Redcat Racing Everest-10 is among the best cheap all terrain RC cars. It offers good performance and durability at a budget-friendly price.

Are Traxxas RC cars good for all terrain?

Yes, many Traxxas models like the TRX-4 and TRX-6 are excellent all terrain trucks. They are very durable with great customization options.

What is the best RC car for grass?

For driving on grass, look for RC cars with big lug tires and sufficient ground clearance. Monster trucks and short course trucks often handle grass well.

Can you drive RC cars on the beach?

Yes, RC cars can be driven on beaches. Look for waterproof models and be sure to rinse off sand and salt after each run.

What is the best RC car for a 10 year old?

Good RC cars for a 10 year old include Traxxas Slash, Arrma Granite Voltage, Redcat Lightning EPX Drift and Latrax Rally. Get a RTR with AVC stability control.

Conclusion

Top All Terrain RC Car Picks

• Traxxas TRX-4 – The ultimate RC crawler with unmatched capability and customization
• Redcat Racing Everest-10 – A great budget-friendly scaler crawler with good performance
• Arrma Granite Voltage – A fast and durable basher perfect for blasting over all terrains

Buying Considerations

• Match the car to your intended use – trailing, crawling, bashing or racing
• Set a budget and stick to it
• Consider your skill level and desire for customization
• Make sure parts and hop-ups are readily available

With a huge variety of options available, there’s an all terrain RC car perfect for anyone. Carefully evaluate your needs and preferences to pick the right mix of durability, performance and features. Spend time driving on different surfaces to fully enjoy these capable machines.