Good RC Car Brands [IN 2024]

Last Updated on December 8, 2023 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) cars provide an exciting hobby for enthusiasts of all ages. From novice drivers to experienced racers, RC cars deliver a thrilling experience as you get behind the controls and put your driving skills to the test.

With continued advancements in technology, today’s RC cars offer impressive speeds, maneuverability, and durability.

When shopping for an RC car, one of the most important decisions is choosing a quality brand. The manufacturer can have a significant impact on the performance and longevity of the vehicle.

In this article, we will explore the history of RC cars, factors to consider when selecting a brand, and recommendations for some of the top RC car manufacturers on the market.

History of RC Cars

Early Beginnings

The first remote control cars were developed in the 1960s as novelty toys. These early RC cars were controlled through wired remotes connected to the vehicle. While maneuverability and speed were limited, these primitive models paved the way for future advancements in RC technology.

In the 1970s, hobby-grade RC cars gained popularity as companies began producing 1/10-scale electric models. These offered increased range and controllability through developments in electronic speed controls. Gas-powered RC models also emerged, reaching impressive speeds.

However, electric RC cars continued to dominate the hobby market due to their lower maintenance.

Growth in Popularity

Through the 1980s and 1990s, RC racing rose in popularity as a competitive hobby. This prompted continued improvements in shocks, bearings, and chassis components to increase speeds and handling.

More realistic scale models also emerged, featuring precise recreations of real performance cars.

The increased availability of high-quality RC vehicles from major brands enabled more people to join the hobby.

Off-road styles like stadium trucks became popular for recreational bashing around neighborhoods or backyards. On-road RC cars allowed hobbyists to simulate real street racing.

Advances in Technology

In the 2000s and beyond, major technological leaps have enhanced the RC experience. 2.4GHz radio systems provide unparalleled control range and stability. Brushless motor systems offer impressive torque and efficiency. Lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries deliver longer run times versus earlier NiCad and NiMH options.

Integrated electronics like Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs), gyroscopic stabilization, and telemetry allow for fine-tuning and monitoring of RC cars. Continued improvements in durability and dampening materials enable these high-performance vehicles to handle extreme racing conditions.

Things to Consider When Choosing an RC Car Brand

With the variety of RC cars available today, it can be challenging to select the right brand for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider as you evaluate different manufacturers:

Quality of Materials

Better brands rely on high-quality components that can withstand intense use. Metal parts like steel chassis plates and aluminum shock bodies are more durable versus plastic components. Look for specs on servo torque, motor turn, and gear ratios to assess power and speed.

Range of Models

The top brands offer a wide selection of vehicle styles to suit different RC needs. As a beginner, having choices like entry-level on-road cars or hardy stadium trucks can be beneficial. Brands will also have unique innovations that set their lineup apart.

Availability of Parts

An extensive inventory of replacement parts is essential to keep your RC running. Major manufacturers will have a wide range of OEM parts as well as aftermarket hop-up components to enhance performance. Quick access to parts reduces downtime.

Customer Service and Support

Look for brands known for comprehensive warranties, service manuals, replacement part guarantees, and responsive customer service. This provides peace of mind and assistance for getting your RC back on track.

Price and Value

Consider the brand’s reputation for delivering performance and quality at each price point. While low cost may be appealing, sacrificing too much quality to save money could diminish your RC experience and require greater maintenance and repairs.

Top RC Car Brands

With decades of experience, certain companies have emerged as leaders in the RC market. Here are some of the most popular and reputable RC car brands available:

Traxxas

Founded in 1986 and based in Texas, Traxxas has earned a sterling reputation for performance and innovation. Their RC cars set benchmarks for speed while also delivering durability through proprietary Traxxas Tough nylon composites.

Traxxas offers an unparalleled range of vehicles from versatile stadium trucks (Slash) to extreme sport models like the XO-1 supercar. Powerful brushed and brushless motor systems enable precise control for both novice and expert handling. Parts availability and customer service also set Traxxas apart.

Arrma

This relative newcomer, founded in 2011, has quickly become a top brand for hardcore RC enthusiasts. Known for delivering race-level quality at a reasonable price, Arrma offers a range of fast yet durable on-road and off-road models.

Notable lines include their 3S and 6S Typhon buggies along with the Outcast series of short-course trucks. Experienced RC hobbyists appreciate Arrma for their high-voltage power systems and racing components at a more affordable price point.

Team Associated

Regarded as pioneers in RC racing since the 1960s, Team Associated brings decades of championship-winning expertise to their vehicles. Their RC10 line defined professional-grade engineering early on and they remain leaders in competitive on-road and off-road models.

Losi

Originally founded in 1983 as Losis Off-Road, Losi offers a wide range of ready-to-run (RTR) and kit-based RC vehicles. While they produce race-ready models, Losi also focuses on delivering speed and durability to novice hobbyists.

Popular lines include the Desert Buggy XL-E which can reach 50mph+ out of the box. Losi’s Mini line also provides a more affordable entry point to the hobby while maintaining the brand’s quality components and engineering.

Team Losi Racing (TLR)

As their name suggests, TLR represents the competitive race side of the Losi brand. This performance-focused line features the engineering expertise of professional driver JR Mitchum to create RC cars with the reliability and handling to dominate tracks.

The 22X-4 elite buggy shows off TLR’s strengths, claiming race wins across multiple classes and surfaces. From dirt tracks to asphalt, TLR cars like the SCTE 3.0 stadium truck help hobbyists move from the backyard to the racetrack.

Tamiya

Dating back to the 1960s, Tamiya has earned a global reputation as a leader in detailed scale model RC kits. Tamiya stands apart with an emphasis on realistic looks and customization versus out-of-the-box speed.

RC enthusiasts appreciate the brand for its intricately engineered kits like the Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG that replicates the real-world vehicle. Tamiya’s wide selection lets builders create everything from sports cars to tanks with modeling skills and patience.

ECX

Part of the Horizon Hobby family, ECX offers an impressive range of entry-level to advanced RC vehicles across on-road, off-road, and action categories. Inexpensive RTR models like the ECX Circuit stadium truck provide an easy introduction with decent performance straight out of the box.

As skills improve, ECX’s upgrades like the Amp line with brushless power deliver racing-level speeds at a reasonable price. ECX appeals to newcomers and experts alike with great value across their lineup.

Redcat Racing

Founded in 2005, Redcat Racing aims to make hobby-grade RC vehicles more affordable. Redcat has grown its lineup to cover all categories, from realistic-looking scale models to fast off-road racers.

Staples like the Thunder Drift rally car offer drift handling at a low cost. Redcat’s Everest GEN7 scales obstacles like a pro while maintaining beginner-friendly operation and parts replacement.

HPI Racing

With origins dating back to 1986, HPI Racing covers the full RC spectrum with vehicles for recreation, racing, and realistic scale driving. While they produce pre-built RTR models, HPI’s lineup offers a bias toward assemble-it-yourself kits for hobbyists who want to get hands-on.

The Sequoia pickup and Nitro RS4 rally car showcase HPI’s knack for rendering real vehicles in miniature RC form with high attention to detail. HPI also produces advanced electronics like the Savage Flux HP Brushless Kit to boost power.

Horizon Hobby

While not a manufacturer per se, Horizon Hobby’s position as the world’s largest RC distributor gives them immense influence. Their family of RC brands includes household names like Losi, ECX, and Arrma.

Horizon Hobby’s massive selection lets you choose from industry leaders based on your interests and budget. Their parts support, warranty services, and RC knowledge help new users find the perfect match.

Tips for Getting Started with RC Cars

Once you’ve selected a quality brand, here are some tips to progress smoothly as a beginner RC driver:

Decide on Vehicle Type

Consider which style best fits how you want to drive:

• Off-road for running over dirt, hills, and obstacles
• On-road for high-speed racing simulation and handling
• Monster trucks for crushing things and extreme bashing

Determine Your Skill Level

As a total novice, look for RTR models that are pre-built and easy to drive out of the box. Intermediate or advanced users may gravitate toward customizable race-ready kits.

Consider Where You’ll Drive

Think about the surfaces available to you – asphalt roads, open dirt fields, racetracks, etc. This affects the optimal suspension, tires, and ground clearance for stable handling.

Set a Budget

Entry-level RC cars cost $100-$200 while advanced race trucks can run $500-$1000. Make sure to factor in batteries and other recurring costs too.

The world of RC cars presents a fun and exciting hobby, but choosing the right brand creates a foundation for an enjoyable experience. By considering reputation, features, quality, and cost, you can select an excellent RC vehicle to fit your needs and budget. Brand matters, so do your research and find a manufacturer that you can trust.

FAQs About Good RC Car Brands

What is the best brand for beginner RC cars?

Traxxas and ECX are great beginner-friendly brands offering quality entry-level RTR models at reasonable prices. Their durability and ease of use help new hobbyists learn the ropes.

Are more expensive RC cars better for racing?

Typically yes – more costly high-end RC cars from Losi, Associated, Tamiya, and other race brands utilize premium components that provide the speed, handling, and performance needed for competition.

Should I start with a kit or an RTR model?

RTR (ready-to-run) models are best for beginners since they can be driven right away. Kits require assembly and tuning expertise but allow customization.

What scale size is best?

1/10 scale is the most common size and provides a good balance of size/speed for many RC driving surfaces. 1/8 can handle rougher terrain but is more expensive.

How long do RC car batteries last?

Run time depends on the capacity (mAh) rating. Higher mAh batteries like 5000mAh may run 30+ minutes while lower capacity 2100mAh batteries run 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

From backyard novices to aspiring professional racers, RC cars offer thrilling performance and fun for hobbyists of every skill level.

Thanks to major advances in technology and engineering, today’s RC vehicles provide precise handling and impressive speed with increased durability compared to earlier generations.

When selecting your first or next RC car, one of the most crucial factors is choosing a quality brand. Major names like Traxxas, Losi, Arrma, Redcat, and others have earned strong reputations through their use of premium components, extensive selection of models, and racing pedigree.

With a top brand matched to your experience level, budget, and interests, you can start enjoying the exciting world of RC cars.