What Is The Best RC Drift Cars Under $200 [In 2024]

Last Updated on September 22, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) drift cars have surged in popularity, offering enthusiasts the thrill of high-speed drifting in a compact, affordable package. Whether you’re a beginner looking to enter the world of RC drifting or an experienced driver seeking a budget-friendly option, this article will guide you through the best RC drift cars available for under $200. We’ll explore their features, pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision on which car best suits your needs.

Our Top 3 picks

Feature	High Speed RC Drifting Car 1:16	Jada Toys Fast & Furious RX-7	HAIBOXING 1/18 Scale
Scale	1:16	1:10	1:18
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
Drive System	4WD	Not specified	4WD
Max Speed	30+ km/h	Not specified	28 km/h
Motor Type	Brushed	Not specified	Brushed (370 motor)
Battery	7.4V (type not specified)	Not specified	2x 7.4V 850mAh Li-Po
Control Range	80 meters (262 feet)	Not specified	85 meters (280 feet)
Special Features	ESP (Electronic Stability Program)	Movie replica design	Built-in gyroscope
Tire Types Included	Standard and drift	Extra set included	3 sets for different surfaces
Lights	Angel eyes headlights	Not specified	Not specified
Controller Type	2.4GHz proportional	Pistol grip	2.4GHz 2-channel
Age Recommendation	14+	8+	8+
Durability Features	Metal shafts, shock absorbers	Not specified	Metal pivot balls, double sealed bearings
Approximate Price*	$50-$70	$70-$90	$80-$100

What to Look for in an RC Drift Car

Before diving into our top picks, it’s essential to understand the key features that make a great RC drift car:

Scale: Most RC drift cars come in scales ranging from 1:10 to 1:24. Larger scales offer more detail and stability, while smaller scales are more portable and often less expensive.

Drive System: 4WD (four-wheel drive) systems generally provide better control and stability for drifting, while RWD (rear-wheel drive) systems offer a more challenging and realistic drifting experience.

Speed: Look for cars with a good balance of speed and control. Faster isn’t always better for drifting, as precision is key.

Battery Life: Longer battery life means more uninterrupted drifting time. Consider cars with rechargeable batteries or those that come with multiple batteries.

Build Quality: Durable materials and solid construction are crucial for withstanding crashes and prolonged use.

Tires: Specialized drift tires with less grip are essential for smooth drifting. Some cars come with interchangeable tires for different surfaces.

Customization Options: The ability to upgrade or modify your car can extend its lifespan and improve performance.

Top 7 RC Drift Cars Under $200 Reviews

High Speed RC Drifting Car 1:16 Scale

Pros:

• Powerful brushed motor with high torque
• 4WD system with ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
• Comes with both standard and drift tires
• Durable construction with metal components
• Good battery life with low voltage protection

Cons:

• May be too fast for absolute beginners
• Some users report difficulty in finding replacement parts

The High Speed RC Drifting Car offers an excellent balance of speed and control, making it a great choice for both beginners and intermediate drifters. Its 4WD system and ESP provide stability, while the included drift tires allow for smooth sliding action. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the inevitable crashes that come with learning to drift.

Jada Toys Fast & Furious Han’s Mazda RX-7 Drift RC Car

Pros:

• Authentic replica of a popular movie car
• High-performance drifting action
• Easy-to-use pistol grip controller
• Comes with an extra set of tires
• Good build quality

Cons:

• Limited to drifting on smooth surfaces
• Battery life could be longer

For fans of the Fast & Furious franchise, this RC drift car offers a chance to own and drift a miniature version of Han’s iconic Mazda RX-7. Its focus on drifting performance makes it an excellent choice for those looking to perfect their RC drifting skills. The inclusion of an extra set of tires is a nice touch, extending the car’s usability.

HAIBOXING 1/18 Scale RC Drift Car

Pros:

• Compact 1/18 scale suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Equipped with a gyroscope for enhanced stability
• Comes with two batteries for extended play time
• Durable construction with metal components
• Good value for money

Cons:

• Smaller scale may be less detailed than larger models
• Some users report inconsistent battery life

The HAIBOXING RC Drift Car stands out with its built-in gyroscope, which helps maintain stability during drifts. Its smaller 1/18 scale makes it versatile for various environments, and the inclusion of two batteries means you can keep the action going for longer. The durable construction ensures it can handle the rigors of drifting.

HYPER GO 14301 1/14 RTR Brushless RC Drift Car

Pros:

• Brushless motor system for high performance
• Independent GYRO for precise control
• Comes with three sets of tires for different surfaces
• Interactive lights with remote control
• Durable aluminum alloy chassis

Cons:

• Higher price point within the under $200 range
• May be too advanced for absolute beginners

The HYPER GO 14301 is a step up in terms of performance, thanks to its brushless motor system. The independent GYRO and three sets of tires offer versatility for different driving styles and surfaces. Its durable construction and interactive features make it a great choice for those looking for a more advanced RC drift car experience.

PANKQQ 1:16 Scale RC Drift Car

Pros:

• High top speed of 40 km/h
• 4WD system for good control
• Comes with two rechargeable batteries
• Includes both racing and drift tires
• Cool LED lights for night driving

Cons:

• Some users report steering sensitivity issues
• Build quality may not be as high as more expensive models

The PANKQQ RC Drift Car offers impressive speed and versatility at an affordable price point. With both racing and drift tires included, it’s suitable for various driving styles. The inclusion of two rechargeable batteries is a nice touch, allowing for extended play sessions. The LED lights add a fun element for night driving.

ZSYMIMRC High Speed Drift RC Morphing Stunt Car

Pros:

• Unique morphing ability for stunts
• 360-degree rotation capability
• Built-in cool lighting and dynamic music
• Durable eco-friendly materials
• Good battery life

Cons:

• May be more focused on stunts than precise drifting
• Some users find the morphing feature gimmicky

For those looking for something a bit different, the ZSYMIMRC Morphing Stunt Car offers unique features like 360-degree rotations and a morphing ability. While it may not be the most precise drifting car, it offers a fun and exciting driving experience, especially for younger users or those who enjoy stunts as much as drifting.

Sakeye RC Drift Car 1:16 Scale

Pros:

• 4WD system for good control
• Comes with LED lights and a cool water spray feature
• Includes both racing and drift tires
• Two rechargeable batteries included
• Good value for money

Cons:

• Water spray feature may not be practical for frequent use
• Some users report inconsistent build quality

The Sakeye RC Drift Car offers a good balance of features at an affordable price. The inclusion of both racing and drift tires, along with two batteries, provides good versatility and extended play time. The LED lights and water spray feature add a fun element, though the latter should be used cautiously to avoid damaging the electronics.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RC Drift Car

When selecting your RC drift car, consider the following factors:

Skill Level: Choose a car that matches your experience. Beginners may want to start with more stable, slower models, while experienced drivers can opt for faster, more challenging cars.

Intended Use: Consider where you’ll be using the car most often. Some models are better suited for indoor use, while others perform well outdoors.

Budget: While all these cars are under $200, there’s still a range of prices. Consider what features are most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly.

Upgrade Potential: If you’re interested in modifying or upgrading your car in the future, look for models with available aftermarket parts.

Battery Life and Type: Consider how long you want to be able to drive without recharging, and whether you prefer rechargeable batteries or disposable ones.

Controller Type: Some people prefer pistol-grip controllers, while others like wheel controllers. Choose what feels most comfortable for you.

Tips for Getting Started with RC Drifting

Start Slow: Begin with slower speeds to get a feel for your car’s handling before attempting high-speed drifts.

Practice on Different Surfaces: Try drifting on various surfaces to understand how your car behaves in different conditions.

Learn Basic Techniques: Master techniques like the pendulum swing and weight transfer before moving on to more advanced maneuvers.

Join a Community: Connect with other RC drifting enthusiasts to share tips, tricks, and experiences.

Maintain Your Car: Regular maintenance will keep your car performing at its best and extend its lifespan.

Maintenance and Care for Your RC Drift Car

Clean Regularly: Remove dust and debris after each use to prevent buildup that could affect performance.

Check and Tighten Screws: Regularly inspect and tighten any loose screws to maintain structural integrity.

Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply appropriate lubricants to bearings and other moving parts to reduce wear and tear.

Inspect Tires: Check tire condition frequently and replace when worn to maintain optimal drifting performance.

Proper Battery Care: Follow manufacturer guidelines for charging and storing batteries to maximize their lifespan.

FAQs

Can I use my RC drift car outdoors? 

While many RC drift cars are designed for indoor use on smooth surfaces, some models can be used outdoors on flat, paved areas. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific car.

How long does the battery typically last on an RC drift car?

Battery life varies depending on the model and usage, but most RC drift cars in this price range offer 15-30 minutes of continuous use per charge.

Are RC drift cars suitable for children? 

Many RC drift cars are suitable for older children and teenagers, but always check the manufacturer’s recommended age range. Younger children may need supervision due to the speed and complexity of these cars.

Can I upgrade or modify my RC drift car? 

Many RC drift cars allow for upgrades and modifications. However, the extent of possible upgrades varies by model. Check for available aftermarket parts for your specific car.

What’s the difference between drift tires and regular RC car tires? 

Drift tires are typically made of harder plastic or have less grip than regular RC car tires. This allows the car to slide more easily, which is essential for drifting maneuvers.

Conclusion

RC drift cars offer an exciting and accessible way to experience the thrill of drifting. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, there’s an RC drift car under $200 that can meet your needs. By considering factors like skill level, intended use, and specific features, you can choose the perfect car to start or continue your RC drifting journey.

Remember, the key to enjoying RC drifting is practice and patience. Start with the basics, gradually build your skills, and most importantly, have fun! With proper care and maintenance, your RC drift car can provide countless hours of entertainment and help you master the art of miniature drifting.