What is the Best RC Car Under $200?
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Remote control trucks, also called RC trucks, are very popular with kids and adults alike. These trucks are just one-foot long and are usually used for bashing (wheelies, jumps, or more), or racing. RC vehicles weren’t as popular as before, but people have grown to love these toys over the years. Here is a buying guide of the best RC cars under $200 to help you find the top trucks on the market.
7 Best RC Cars Under $200 – Overview & Rating
Author's Choice  | 1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC RC Off Road Monster Truck
| Check Price |
|---|---|---|
Premium Choice  | 1:18 DEERC High Speed Remote Control Car
| Check Price |
People's Choice  | 1:10 Redcat Racing Volcano
| Check Price |
Best Budget  | 1:10 Hosim High Speed RC Car
| Check Price |
Best for Kids  | 1:10 BEZGAR 1 Hobbyist Grade RC Car
| Check Price |
Best Small Scale Rock Racer  | 1:18 Axial Jr. Can-Am Yeti Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer
| Check Price |
Best Mini Stadium Truck  | 1:18 Losi RC Mini-T 2.0 2WD Stadium Truck
| Check Price |
Detailed Overview
Author’s Choice
1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC RC Off Road Monster Truck- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. Brushed Electric Double Motor. Speed up to 35 mph. Oil Filled Metal Shocks. Foam Filled Tires. 45 Degree Climbing Ability
- 2.4GHz RC, with 2 speed modes. Two LI-PO 7.4V 1600mAh rechargeable batteries. Enough for up to 40 min of run
When you buy, this waterproof 4×4 off-road RC truck comes fully assembled and ready to use straight out of its box. It can run up to 35 miles per hour, so fast that this model can race more swiftly than any other cars. This 4WD, 1:16 scale RC monster truck, is proud of its flawless operation, grip, and durability. And since it has the best oil-filled metal shocks and robust wheels, you can drive this RC car in all terrains such as sand, beach, concrete, or rock.
The Legendary RC off-road all-terrain monster truck also utilizes an easy-to-use-pistol-like radio remote controller at 2.4GHz, with two 2 speed modes. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, this RC monster truck is definitely a good choice where both kids and adults can easily control. Among the best RC cars under $200, this RC monster truck is the perfect gift for your friends or family. If you think of giving somebody a cool present, then this radio-controlled car is the best option.
Pros:
- Extended Run time
- 2-speed modes
- Safe for storing, transporting and charging batteries
- Equipped with 2 USB chargers
Cons:
- Some users claim there is a problem with its reverse mechanism.
People’s Choice
1:18 DEERC High Speed Remote Control Car- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD, Waterproof brushless motor
- 2.4GHz RC, with 2*7.4V 1200 mAh rechargeable Li-Po batteries. Enough for up to 40 min of run with 2 batteries
This all-terrain off-road toy truck is a perfect gift for boys. It runs super-fast (60kph), thanks to its extremely powerful motor that runs at a whopping 90-95m/s. It has a 4-wheel drive mechanism and is supported by four different independent suspensions. Because of its being very robust, it can gain amazing protection of the car from collisions and can perfectly run even on a dropping altitude. Even when you are on-road or off-road environment, this RC car can really deliver.
The DEERC Brushless RC car boasts of its 18A Brushless ESC and 2440 waterproof brushless motor. It runs on a brushless electric motor at 4300KV, making this car last for a long. The life of those best RC cars under $200 running on brushless motors is said to be three times longer than the brushed motor. Plus, the power consumption of these brushless motor is roughly a third less than the brushed.
This RC car also features eight timing options, eight accelerations, and a handful of protection. It comes with 2 1200mAH high-capacity batteries and an extra shell. The car is also equipped with two 7.4V rechargeable Li-Po batteries that can run up to twenty minutes. In case you want to switch to another color, it comes with an extra red cover.
The DEERC brushless RC car comes with a 2.4GHz accurate system and runs in 10 different speed modes. For that total digital control, the pistol grip transmitter allows proportional steering and throttle for a smooth turning and racing. With 2.4GHz technology, you can easily allow up to a dozen vehicles to run simultaneously. You can easily control this hobby-grade car of up to 100 meters (328 feet). With its ten different speed adjustments, any RC vehicle enthusiast, no matter the level of experience, can easily navigate the car. This off-road, all-terrain RC car is made with an all-metal sealed ball bearing. Its oil-filled shock absorber has an anti-vibration feature, and it also has anti-skid rubber tires. This ready to run the car is perfect for mud, sand, or stone rugged mountain roads.
Pros:
- Lasting and high-speed
- Extra PVC car cover
- High toughness tires
- Oil-filled shock
- Ultra-solid structure
Cons:
- Spare parts aren’t readily available
Premium Choice
1:10 Redcat Racing Volcano- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. 550 19 turns brushed motor. Waterproof 40amp Brushed ESC
- 2.4GHz RC, 7.2V 2000mAh NiMH Battery & NiMH Charger
This 4-wheel drive monster truck comes with very massive monster truck tires. Its chassis is made from lightweight molder plastic, and it is equipped with eight aluminum oil-filled shocks. It features tunable suspension, a front and rear gear differential, tunable shocks, adjustable ride height, tunable gear differentials, adjustable toe angle, and adjustable camber.
The amazing part of this best RC cars under $200 are its aggressive tires and independent suspension. To achieve high-speed performance, this chassis of this RC truck has a low center of gravity and comes equipped with ball bearings all throughout the unit.
The Redcat Racing Volcano has a 19T brushed 550 electric motors with a heat sink. It has a waterproof ESC, a waterproof steering servo, and its radio system is at 2.4GHz. Upon purchase, this model is already assembled and can be used immediately. The set includes a 7.2V, 2000maH battery, and a NiMH charger. For its transmitter, it will require four double-A batteries.
Pros:
- Hexfly High-Torque Steering Servo
- Aluminum Capped Coil-Over Shocks
- Eight shocks
- Fully adjustable suspension
Cons:
- Choking hazard
- Not suitable for kids three years and below because of its tiny parts
Best Budget
1:10 Hosim High Speed RC Car- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD, RC390 motor
- 2.4GHz RC, with 2 speed modes. One 7.4V 1600mAh rechargeable battery. Enough for up to 10-15 min of run
This 1:10 scale, full proportional RC monster truck, is super-fast. All four wheels feature bouncing spring materials that provide ample support in case unexpected dropping or unstable surfaces on the ground. This RC car can run up to 46km/h, both off-road and on-road environments, thanks to its heavy-duty wheels with anti-skid capabilities. The all-metal ball bearings are specifically designed to withstand the harsh environment, as well as other rugged roads.
This large size, high-speed RC car also has a high capacity battery, running at 1600mAH. The Li-ion Battery is creatively manufactured and designed for optimum RC racing performance. When running on top speed, this RC car that is perfect for young boys and adults can run up to 10-15 minutes. This also features a double 390 powerful motor for that ultimate high-speed performance. It has soft and elastic wheels that have shockproof and anti-skid features. A shockproof system, suspension springs, and links all provide better protection of the significant components of this best RC cars under $200.
Pros:
- High quality and metal body
- All metal sealed ball bearing
- Heavy duty and fast speed wheels
- Double strong motors
Cons:
- Batteries don’t work for long
Best for Kids
1:10 BEZGAR 1 Hobbyist Grade RC Car- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4WD, RC390 motor
- 2.4GHz RC, Two 1500mAh rechargeable batteries required
This hobbyist grade RC car runs on an RC390 Brushed motor. It can make 21,000 revolutions per minute and creates higher horsepower for the RC car. This is a significant improvement in terms of its acceleration as it allows the RC car to gather a top speed of up to 30 mph, thus making it the best and most competitive option in drag racing.
It also comes equipped with an IPX5 level waterproof standard. The ESC (electronic speed controller) features several protective functions like IPX5 water resistance, splash-proof, over-current protection, and a function where voltage is automatically cut off once its battery runs low. And while this truck can withstand splashes coming from a different direction, this RC car cannot survive water submersion.
The BEZGAR RC car also has metal oil-filled shocks both in its front and rear end. Meaning, its suspension system now has an adjustable dampening function that allows the car to better deal with different terrains like concretes, sands, grass, or mud, among others. And since the creators have increased the shock’s travel capacity, this resulted in better protection of the vehicle against collision. This also increases its safety capability during a dropping altitude.
The complete chassis of this RC truck is created out of nylon. It has several properties, such as high resistance to chemicals, elasticity, and insularity. With all these properties combined, this gives the truck a longer life cycle and better collision resistance. The body frame and tires are made of thermoplastic rubber designed to enhance abrasive resistance and provide the tires with a good grip as it races.
This higher-end RC car is suitable for beginners and intermediate-level users who wish to further their levels to another notch. With its exceptional durability, fantastic speed, and control ability, this is an excellent option to have your racing skills taken to the next level.
Pros:
- Equipped with an RC390 motor for higher horsepower
- Oil-filled metal shocks
- Can withstand all terrain types
Cons:
- Not suitable for children under 8
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Best Small Scale Rock Racer
1:18 Axial Jr. Can-Am Yeti Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer- Ready to Run. For 15 +
- 4WD. AXIAL® 37T 380 waterproof brushed electric motor, Independent Front Suspension. Spektrum 2. 4GHz STX2 Radio System
- Spektrum 2. 4GHz STX2 Radio System. Licensed Can-Am Maverick X3 body. All batteries included
The Axial Jr. Can-Am Yeti Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer is all you dream about, but shrunk down to a compact 1:18 scale size. You got here a licensed Can Am® Maverick body for a fun and easy to drive chassis. Out of the box, this tiny monster is ready to run, with all batteries and charger! What else to dream about for the price? Well, it even has an independent suspension with floating solid rear axle which is standard only for full-size off-road vehicles. Axial carried its advantages over into this RC rock racer. The car has increased clearance and improved stability at high speeds, yet giving smooth rides over virtually any surface.
Its included 380-size 37T motor adds the perfect amount of speed and torque. When that muscle meets the tread of the Maxxis® Bighorn 2.0 radial tires, you’ve got all the traction you need for fast, smooth rides over virtually any surface.
Pros:
- Independent Front Suspension
- The Dynamite 6-Cell NiMH USB battery charger is small, compact, and easy to operate
- Maxxis® Bighorn 2.0 radial tires
- Great for RC beginners
Cons:
- Does not ride good in tall grass (if you need that)
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Best Mini RC Stadium Truck
1:18 Losi RC Mini-T 2.0 2WD Stadium Truck- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 2WD. Dynamite BL Motor/ESC 2-in-1 6000Kv. Spektrum SX107 Micro Metal Gear Servo
- Horizon 2.4Ghz Receiver WP 3-CH. Dynamite 7.4V 800mAh 2S 50C LiPo
Losi Mini-T 2.0 1:18-scale RC Truck is made with modern technology and Team Losi Racing engineering specialists know-how, being leaders in the field. It is based on the original Mini-T with highly sophisticated features and options. It may be of compact size, but its strong and powerful performance of the Brushless 2-in-1 motor-and-ESC configuration is the same as for its bigger version Losi 1:10 scale. TLR 22 platform is the base of Losi Mini-T suspension. The Dynamite 7.4V 2S 800mAh 50C Li-Po battery provides enough power for high speeds. Its ready-to-run, and you don’t have to buy any extras.
Buyer’s Guide
What to Consider Choosing the Right RC Cars for Adults
For girls, teddy bears and dolls are their things when they are still young. Boys play around with toys like cars. The main difference between them is that by the time women have grown, they stop playing. But boys will be boys. They will still go on playing with their beloved toy cars even when they are already adults.
A lot of men go gaga the moment new gadgets are introduced in the market. RC cars are one of those devices that every man wishes to have. Over the years, RC cars have generated a lot of popularity because of their unique designs.
Driving RC cars is an enjoyable hobby, no matter your age. After all, no one is really too old to have some fun and playtime with cars, right? But with the overwhelming choices today we have in the market, finding the best RC cars can be a daunting experience. So, here are some helpful things you can consider if you plan on buying remote-controlled cars.
Ease of Use
How you can easily use a toy car matters a lot. After all, who needs a new gadget that is so hard to operate? RC cars are preferred by many over those other forms of racing vehicles because they have a frequency of 2.3GHz. Meaning, you can operate them efficiently according to your level of convenience.
Speed
Toy cars that do not run fast are just plain boring. RC cars are loved by many, primarily because of its high speed. When buying these types of toys, most buyers always consider the speed of the car. Thankfully, most RC cars today have far more advanced speed features. Some cars can even reach up to 40 miles per hour.
Motor Power
When playing RC cars, adults tend to get rough at times. Thus, you need to go for a toy that is robust and can last longer. You don’t want to invest in an RC car that only lasts for a short time anyway. It’s best to invest in a powerful, agile, and speedy car withstand even the toughest terrains.
Battery Life and Operation Distance
The most exciting factor about gadgets that you can remotely control is that you can navigate them over long distances. For adults, RC cars usually have a coverage of 30 to 40 meters or beyond. This is a good option since this is more convenient. Also, it is wise to go for an RC car that can drive for more extended periods. It sans the need for constant recharging. With these two features, you get to have fun and smooth RC car experience.
Special Features
Who loves boring things? This applies to remote-controlled cars as well. These cars are actually designed with additional features so that they become more enjoyable and fun to use. Say, for example, some RC cars have wheels designed to go over bumps smoothly. While most models have some uniqueness in their products, remember that the accessories and spare parts of these cars are added features you should look out for.
Also, pay attention to a model’s design. A less attractive car may not be thrilling to play with. Go for a car that is classy, sleek, and trendy. There are a handful of these RC cars in the market today; all of which vary in efficiency and performance. To help you save time and money with your scouting for new toys, consider the factors above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric or Nitro (engine) power?
It's best to start with an electric truck or car. They are quieter, more affordable, and does not require a lot of maintenance as against those nitro-powered models. However, if you feel like you don't want to settle for anything less, then go for nitro-powered cars. This is actually the most popular choice, and you can easily find nitro-powered trucks and cars designed especially for first-time drivers. With that, going over nitro power will influence your decision to choose between a kit and a ready-to-run RC car.
Kit or RTR?
Actually, there is no better or worse option here. This will basically boil down to your personal preference. If you are someone who loves to build things, then it won't take much of your time and effort to create an RC car. It is easy and very rewarding, and by the time you are done with the assembly, surely, you will have full knowledge of your car inside and out. On the other hand, those who cannot stand reading instruction manuals or using screwdrivers should go for RTR or Ready To Run. If you are a newbie and have no knack at mechanical things, then the RTR option is the safest way to go. RTR cars are professionally assembled and correctly set up; thus, no more screwdrivers and long instruction manuals.
Off-road or on-road?
This is simple. On-road cars are good only on the pavement. If you are bent on experiencing on-road RC car performance, then get an on-road car. But can you be sure that you won't be tempted to drive your on-road car into the dirt? The best solution is to go for an off-road car, anyway, it can also work on pavements just like the on-road ones. After you have made up your mind about RTRs or kits, electric or Nitro power, or on-road, very off-road, it's time to narrow down your options. The first consideration is your budget. There is more to buying your own RC car than the very car itself. You need to invest in the support gear. Consider the total cost of all the things you need to complete your car. You also need to check the seller. Are you going to buy it online or to a local hobby shop? These are just some of the best RC cars under $200. Check also your friends who have their own RC cars and trucks and ask for suggestions and advice.
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