Best Micro RC Cars [Notable & Popular Models]

Last Updated on November 29, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Micro remote control (RC) cars are miniature electric powered vehicles that are controlled with a handheld transmitter. Ranging in size from just a few inches long to around 1/18 scale, micro RC cars are designed to be raced on small tracks and courses. 

Their palm-sized dimensions and nimbleness make them ideal for indoor use. Micro RC cars have exploded in popularity over the last decade, creating an entire niche hobby segment. This guide will provide an overview of micro RC cars, tips for choosing the right model, and recommendations for some of the best micro RC cars currently available.

top micro RC car brands:

Brand	Vehicle Types	Scale	Speed	Power Source	Electronics	Durability	Customization	Price Range
Traxxas	Trucks, buggies, rally cars	1/16, 1/24	Up to 25 mph	LiPo	Velineon brushless systems	Durable plastics and metals	Less customizable RTRs	$100-$300
Losi	Trucks, buggies, rally cars	1/24, 1/18	Up to 35 mph	LiPo	Spektrum electronics	Durable plastics with metal upgrades	Highly customizable kits	$150-$400
ECX	Trucks, buggies, on-road	1/24, 1/18	Up to 20 mph	NiMH or LiPo	Brushed motors	Durable plastics and metals	Limited RTR customization	$50-$150
Team Associated	On-road, rally cars	1/28, 1/18	Up to 40 mph	LiPo	Reedy motors	Carbon fiber and metals	Highly customizable kits	$200-$400
Kyosho	On-road, off-road	1/28, 1/24	Up to 30 mph	LiPo	Orion/Hitec electronics	Metals and durable plastics	Highly customizable kits	$150-$350
Tamiya	On-road, off-road, realism	1/35, 1/24	Up to 15 mph	NiMH	Mabuchi motors	Detailed plastics	Fully customizable kits	$100-$300
Carisma	On-road, rally cars	1/24, 1/28	Up to 40 mph	LiPo	Carisma electronics	Durable plastics and metals	Semi-customizable RTRs	$150-$250

History of Micro RC Cars

The roots of micro RC cars can be traced back to the birth of RC vehicles in the 1960s. As RC technology improved in the 1970s and 80s, smaller and more sophisticated RC cars began to emerge. Kyosho, a Japanese manufacturer, produced some of the first true micro RC cars in the late 1980s and early 1990s with models like the Lazer ZX and mm Series. Through the 90s and 2000s, widespread adoption of lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries allowed micro RC cars to become more powerful while still retaining small sizes.

 Major manufacturers like Traxxas, Losi, and ECX introduced micro lines and helped propel the segment forward. The proliferation of online shopping in the 2000s also fueled the micro RC trend by making specialty hobby products more accessible. Today, advancements in miniaturization and a thriving community of enthusiasts continue to drive new innovations in micro RC vehicles.

Benefits of Micro RC Cars

Micro RC cars offer several advantages that make them a great entry point into the RC hobby:

• Indoor and Small Space Racing: With compact dimensions, micro RC cars are designed for indoor use and small race tracks. Their smaller footprint allows them to be used in environments where large-scale RC vehicles can’t.
• Lower Cost: Micro RC cars have much lower upfront costs than their larger counterparts. Ready-to-run models can often be purchased for under $100, with many micros priced below $50. Replacement parts are also inexpensive.
• Beginner Friendly: The small size and slower speeds of micro RC cars make them easier to control for novice drivers. This allows new hobbyists to get experience without the challenges of larger models.
• Portability: Weighing just a few ounces, micro RC cars are highly portable. Their transmitters, batteries, and spare parts pack into a small bag or box.
• Durability: Built to withstand crashes and tumbles, micro RC bodies are made from flexible plastics and materials that can absorb impacts. This makes them ideal for new drivers.

For these reasons, micro RC cars present an accessible and affordable gateway into the rewarding world of RC vehicles. Their simple operation, low maintenance, and suitability for indoor use continue to win over new enthusiasts.

Choosing the Right Micro RC Car

With the variety of micro RC cars available today, it’s important to consider a few key factors when selecting the right model:

Size and Scale

Micro RC cars come in a range of sizes designated by popular RC scales. 1/24, 1/28, and 1/16 scale micros represent the most common sizes, ranging from 2-5 inches in length. Consider the planned running environment when choosing a size class. Larger models offer more power but need more space.

Speed and Power

Most micro RC cars reach top speeds of 10-25 mph. Models on the faster end of the spectrum typically have more powerful motors and lithium polymer batteries. Speed demons will want to opt for greater velocity, while new drivers may prefer slower top speeds for control.

Durability and Parts

Micro bodies are designed to absorb impacts, but accidents happen. Prioritize models from reputable brands that have readily available spare parts and hop-up components to enhance durability. Metal parts also increase strength over plastic components.

Features and Functions

Many micro RC cars now include special features like four wheel drive systems, oil filled shocks, digital proportional steering and throttle, and large diameter tires. Evaluate which features will maximize runtime and performance based on your needs.

Top Micro RC Car Brands

The micro RC market is filled with brands offering competitive and innovative models. Here are some of the top manufacturers that consistently produce high quality micro options:

Traxxas

One of the hobby leaders, Traxxas has an entire line dedicated to micro vehicles like the Traxxas Mini Slash and Traxxas Mini E-Revo. Known for speed and durability, their micros feature Velineon brushless power systems and long travel suspensions.

Pros:

• Powerful and fast models
• Durable construction for stunts/racing
• High quality components
• Strong community support

Cons:

• On the expensive end for RTRs
• Not as customizable as kits
• Mostly pre-built trucks and buggies

Losi

Losi creates elite racing micros perfect for competition like the Losi Mini-T 2.0 RC Truck and the Losi Mini Rally. Losi micros come equipped with features like AVC stability control and Spektrum electronics.

Pros:

• Optimized for racing and speed
• Stability control system
• Pre-installed Spektrum electronics
• Wide range of upgrade parts

Cons:

• Less focus on bashing models
• Kits require advanced building skills
• Smaller scale makes repairs tricky

ECX

The micro ECX lineup includes scale monsters like the ECX BeatBox and efficient on-road models like the ECX Circuit. Known for quality at a budget-friendly price, ECX offers beginner friendly performance.

Pros:

• Very affordable ready-to-run options
• Good combination of quality and value
• Models suited for multiple terrains
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Top speeds not as fast as pricier brands
• Primarily RTRs with less customization
• Smaller community/aftermarket accessories

Team Associated

Veteran RC manufacturer Team Associated produces legendary micros like the Team Associated RC28 micro rally car. Their years of racing pedigree result in optimized designs.

Pros:

• Race-winning performance pedigree
• Dialed designs for competitive edge
• Smooth and precise handling
• Retains spare parts for older models

Cons:

• Less name recognition among newcomers
• Mostly kit based requiring build time
• Low number of RTR models available

Kyosho

Kyosho pioneered early ready-to-run micros and continues to innovate with advanced kits like the Kyosho Fazer Mk2. Meticulous Japanese engineering gives Kyosho micros an edge.

Pros:

• Innovative designs and engineering
• Highly customizable kits
• Reputation for reliability
• Strong parts support even for vintage models

Cons:

• Limited number of RTR options
• Kits demand advanced expertise
• Less common in retail stores
• Expensive compared to other brands

Tamiya

Legendary model maker Tamiya enters the micro segment with kits like the M-05 chassis based Tamiya M05 Mini Cooper. Tamiya’s models focus on realism and customization.

Pros:

• Incredibly realistic scale details
• Fully customizable kits
• Massive aftermarket for parts
• Unique body shells and finishes

Cons:

• Not optimized for racing or speed runs
• Mostly kits requiring assembly
• Less durable than competition brands
• Weaker stock electronics

Carisma

Ukraine based Carisma specializes in micro scale on-road and rally cars, like the competitive Carisma GT24T. Known for high-end quality at reasonable prices.

This selection of top brands covers the most popular and reputable micro RC car manufacturers. Each company offers unique advantages geared towards different driving styles and applications.

Pros:

• Specialized in competitive categories
• Meticulous scale proportions
• Proven race winners
• Durable factory assembled models

Cons:

• Limited range of vehicle types
• Less brand recognition
• Smaller parts and hop-up market
• Electronics not on par with top brands

Notable and Popular Models

With an overview of the top brands, here is a sampling of some of the most popular and best performing micro RC cars on the market:

Traxxas Mini Slash

• 1/16 scale short course truck
• Titan 12T 550 motor provides up to 25 mph speeds
• Ultra shock oil filled suspension
• Perfect introduction to RC racing

Losi Mini-T 2.0 RTR

• 1/18 stadium truck ready-to-run model
• Spektrum 2.4GHz radio system for control
• AVC stability control prevents rollovers
• 11.1V 1000mAh LiPo battery included

ECX BeatBox

• 1/24 scale monster truck
• Fully proportional steering and throttle
• 8.4V 1100mAh NiMH battery for power
• Affordable and durable basher

Associated RC28

• 1/28 scale rally car
• Ultra compact ready-to-run design
• Modular components for repairs
• Realistic scale details like light pods

Kyosho Fazer Mk2

• Highly customizable 1/28 scale kit
• 7075 aluminum chassis for stiffness
• Super mini FS-GT2 2.4G radio system
• Iconic Fazer series evolution

Tamiya M05 Mini Cooper

• Static 1/35 scale model kit
• M-05 chassis with coil over shocks
• Access to wide range of hop-ups
• Realistic Mini Cooper S body shell

Carisma GT24T

• 1/24 scale rear wheel drive touring car
• Factory assembled ready-to-run option
• Optional drift and rally configurations
• Proven competition pedigree

This overview covers some of the most recognizable and capable micro RC choices spanning multiple vehicle types and skill levels. Each model packs performance and value into a tiny, palm-sized package.

Tips for Getting Started with Micro RC Cars

For those new to the world of micro RC cars, here are some tips to get started:

• Seek out local RC racing clubs and tracks. Experienced hobbyists are an invaluable resource and often open to mentoring newcomers. Attend a race day for exposure.
• Start with an affordable ready-to-run (RTR) model from a trusted brand to minimize initial investment and get driving quicker. Consider the Mini Slash or BeatBox.
• Invest in a quality charger like the Venom Pro Dual. Avoid cheap chargers that may damage batteries. Get an adapter for charging via an AC outlet.
• Pick up a few spare parts like prop shafts, hub carriers, and shocks. Breakages happen when starting out. Stock up on backup supplies.
• Run NiMH batteries when learning to avoid damaging more expensive LiPo packs. Switch to LiPo power for a speed boost once skills improve.
• Use the lowest “training mode” speed settings on the transmitter when getting acquainted with a new micro. Gradually increase speed with experience.
• Drivers should start on smooth, flat surfaces like finished basement floors or tracked courses to develop fundamental techniques.

Easing into the hobby using a methodical approach focused on fundamentals will create a solid foundation for micro RC fun. Patience during the initial learning curve will quickly give way to mastery of these fast, nimble machines.

FAQs

What is the best micro RC car for a beginner?

For beginners, the Traxxas Mini Slash is one of the best options. It’s an affordable, ready-to-run truck with a durable design and relatively slow top speed for new drivers. The ECX BeatBox is another great choice as an entry level basher.

How fast can micro RC cars go?

Top speeds range from about 10 mph on slower hobby grade models up to around 40 mph on high performance micros. Most ready-to-run micros top out between 15-25 mph, while faster custom built kits can hit over 30 mph.

Can you run micro RC cars outdoors?

Micro RC cars are best suited for indoor use, but some models can handle occasional outdoor running in very small spaces. Look for all-wheel drive micros with good ground clearance to deal with small rocks and debris outdoors. Always avoid puddles which can damage electronics.

How long is an average micro RC car battery charge?

Run times range widely based on battery capacity, vehicle weight, and driving style. Entry level micros will get 5-10 minutes per charge. High capacity lithium batteries in performance micros can deliver 15-25+ minutes of run time between charges.

What accessories are recommended for micro RC cars?

Must have micro RC accessories including extra batteries for extended runtime, a quality charger, a carrying case, and a small toolkit with basic spares like prop shafts, steering links, and shock oil. A battery voltage monitor is also useful to maximize battery health.

Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this FAQ section in any way. I can add more questions, adjust the answers, or rewrite as needed.

Conclusion

In the decades since the first pioneering micro RC vehicles hit the market, these small speed demons have carved out a distinctive niche in RC racing. Their miniscule dimensions contain big performance and endless capabilities that continue to expand. Ongoing improvements in power, run time, durability, and affordability have firmly established micro models as a major RC segment.

Brands like Traxxas, Losi, and Kyosho now cultivate entire micro specific product lines to meet demand. For novice drivers, micro RC cars represent an ideal starting point on the journey to RC expertise. Their accessibility empowers beginners to confidently cut their teeth without the costs and complications of large-scale racing. Driven by innovation and a thriving community, the future looks bright for these tiny terror terrors.