RC Car Reviews
The HAIBOXING 1:18 All Terrain RC Car 18859E is a versatile and durable RC car suitable for a range of terrains and a great choice if you’re on a budget. Available in a 1/18 scale, it’s compact enough for small areas and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it’s also water resistant. .
This RC has been equipped with a powerful brushed motor which delivers good speed and acceleration. The 4WD allows it to maneuver over rough terrain effortlessly, and it can reach an impressive top speed of 22 mph.
There’s an independent suspension system which also contributes to its impressive handling. The built-in shock absorbers soften the impact of tougher terrains, providing a smooth and stable drive.
For a budget model, it’s got a lot of great features, including an ESC that protects it against overheating, overcurrent, and blocking.
For beginners, it’s a great choice. It can be driven at a slower speed which allows beginners to practice using the controls.
It comes with two batteries included, although the run time leaves a lot to be desired. You’ve got around 10 minutes of run time for each, and to charge the batteries you need to remove the top of the car which is a fiddle.
Having said that, it’s great for the price. It’s water resistant so can be driven through large puddles and on wet tracks, although it shouldn’t be fully submerged.
For a budget model, this RC car certainly delivers. It’ll provide hours of fun for RC enthusiasts, and it’s surprisingly very beginner-friendly.
At a glance
- Scale
- 1:18
- Max. Speed
- 36 kph
- Charge Time
- 100 mins
- Run Time
- 40 mins
- Body Material
- PVC
- Drive Type (2WD or 4WD)
- 4WD
The HAIBOXING 1:18 All Terrain RC Car 18859E is a versatile and durable RC car suitable for a range of terrains and a great choice if you’re on a budget. Available in a 1/18 scale, it’s compact enough for small areas and I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it’s also water resistant. .
This RC has been equipped with a powerful brushed motor which delivers good speed and acceleration. The 4WD allows it to maneuver over rough terrain effortlessly, and it can reach an impressive top speed of 22 mph.
There’s an independent suspension system which also contributes to its impressive handling. The built-in shock absorbers soften the impact of tougher terrains, providing a smooth and stable drive.
For a budget model, it’s got a lot of great features, including an ESC that protects it against overheating, overcurrent, and blocking.
For beginners, it’s a great choice. It can be driven at a slower speed which allows beginners to practice using the controls.
It comes with two batteries included, although the run time leaves a lot to be desired. You’ve got around 10 minutes of run time for each, and to charge the batteries you need to remove the top of the car which is a fiddle.
Having said that, it’s great for the price. It’s water resistant so can be driven through large puddles and on wet tracks, although it shouldn’t be fully submerged.
For a budget model, this RC car certainly delivers. It’ll provide hours of fun for RC enthusiasts, and it’s surprisingly very beginner-friendly.
Pros
- Comes with two batteries included so you can switch them over when one runs out
- Waterproof so can be taken through large puddles although it cannot be fully submerged
- Works well on most terrains including grass
- Has a slower feature that allows beginners to practice using the controls
Cons
- Shell is fairly thin and can crack easily
- Included batteries don’t have a long run time - around 15 minutes
- Charging the batteries is difficult, the top of the car needs removing
I am a big fan of the RIAARIO All Terrain High Speed 1:18 RC Car. Available in a 1/18 scale, it’s pretty compact yet it still offers an exciting driving experience for RC enthusiasts on a budget.
This model is equipped with a high-speed brushed motor. While it lacks the power of a brushless motor, this does mean it’s a good budget option for beginners. It can reach speeds of up to 22 mph, and there’s LED headlights to ensure it can be used around the clock!
The bright green design is engaging and ensures it’s always easy to spot. The build quality is also very good. It’s made from anti-collision waterproof material, and it’s equipped with durable anti-skid rubber tires and an anti-vibration shock absorber.
It has an IPX4 waterproof level so, while it shouldn’t be submerged, it can be driven through puddles. It’s also dustproof, so can be used on dirt tracks with no worries.
The proportional throttle means beginners can get to grips with the controls at a slower speed, and overall I did find it very easy to control.
There are two batteries included, although these can be upgraded for extra speed. Each comes with a decent run time of around 20 minutes.
The only real downside is that the shocks are made from plastic and are fairly cheap. The rest of the vehicle is very good quality, but this is where you can really tell it’s a budget model.
In conclusion, this model offers an exhilarating drive, although experienced users may find it lacks enough power to be truly thrilling. The high speeds, engaging design and easy controls will provide beginners with endless fun.
At a glance
- Scale
- 1:18
- Max. Speed
- 36 kph
- Charge Time
- 2.5 hours
- Run Time
- 40 mins
- Drive Type (2WD or 4WD)
- 4WD
I am a big fan of the RIAARIO All Terrain High Speed 1:18 RC Car. Available in a 1/18 scale, it’s pretty compact yet it still offers an exciting driving experience for RC enthusiasts on a budget.
This model is equipped with a high-speed brushed motor. While it lacks the power of a brushless motor, this does mean it’s a good budget option for beginners. It can reach speeds of up to 22 mph, and there’s LED headlights to ensure it can be used around the clock!
The bright green design is engaging and ensures it’s always easy to spot. The build quality is also very good. It’s made from anti-collision waterproof material, and it’s equipped with durable anti-skid rubber tires and an anti-vibration shock absorber.
It has an IPX4 waterproof level so, while it shouldn’t be submerged, it can be driven through puddles. It’s also dustproof, so can be used on dirt tracks with no worries.
The proportional throttle means beginners can get to grips with the controls at a slower speed, and overall I did find it very easy to control.
There are two batteries included, although these can be upgraded for extra speed. Each comes with a decent run time of around 20 minutes.
The only real downside is that the shocks are made from plastic and are fairly cheap. The rest of the vehicle is very good quality, but this is where you can really tell it’s a budget model.
In conclusion, this model offers an exhilarating drive, although experienced users may find it lacks enough power to be truly thrilling. The high speeds, engaging design and easy controls will provide beginners with endless fun.
Pros
- 3 different speeds so beginners can get to grips with the control
- Due to the small size, you can reach impressive speeds in a fairly small amount of space
- A good option for those dipping their toe into the hobby thanks to the easy control and small size
- Attractive electric green body with sharp graphics
Cons
- Shocks are made from plastic and are fairly cheap, although these can be upgraded
- To charge the battery the entire top of the car needs to be removed and unscrewed
A top-notch racing vehicle, the HYPER GO H16DR 1:16 Ready to Run 4X4 Fast RC Car combines speed, agility and durability. It reaches a decent top speed of 26 mph and quick acceleration, making it suitable for high-speed racing and adrenaline-fueled drives.
Equipped with a 4WD system, this car offers superior grip and control which means it can tackle a range of different terrains. There are oil-filled shock absorbers which provide good stability and allow for a smooth ride even on very rough surfaces.
It comes with a 2.4GHz remote control included which allows for responsive handling and good control.
One of the best things about this model is that it’s very easy to upgrade. Replacement parts can be sourced, and you can swap out the batteries as well as other parts if you fancy more speed.
It’s also a good choice for children and beginners thanks to the throttle limiter. Choose to set the throttle at just 70%, so you can practice at a slower speed.
It’s good value for money, with a screwdriver and spare clips included for basic maintenance. As mentioned, replacement parts are super easy to source.
There’s a lot to love about this model, including the price tag. While some parts are a little flimsy (such as the plastic axle joints), it’s still a high-performance model that marks very good value for money.
At a glance
- Scale
- 1:16
- Max. Speed
- 40 kph
- Run Time
- 40 mins
- Drive Type (2WD or 4WD)
- 4WD
A top-notch racing vehicle, the HYPER GO H16DR 1:16 Ready to Run 4X4 Fast RC Car combines speed, agility and durability. It reaches a decent top speed of 26 mph and quick acceleration, making it suitable for high-speed racing and adrenaline-fueled drives.
Equipped with a 4WD system, this car offers superior grip and control which means it can tackle a range of different terrains. There are oil-filled shock absorbers which provide good stability and allow for a smooth ride even on very rough surfaces.
It comes with a 2.4GHz remote control included which allows for responsive handling and good control.
One of the best things about this model is that it’s very easy to upgrade. Replacement parts can be sourced, and you can swap out the batteries as well as other parts if you fancy more speed.
It’s also a good choice for children and beginners thanks to the throttle limiter. Choose to set the throttle at just 70%, so you can practice at a slower speed.
It’s good value for money, with a screwdriver and spare clips included for basic maintenance. As mentioned, replacement parts are super easy to source.
There’s a lot to love about this model, including the price tag. While some parts are a little flimsy (such as the plastic axle joints), it’s still a high-performance model that marks very good value for money.
Pros
- Reaches a decent top speed of 26 mph
- It is easy to upgrade and accessories are easy to source
- The 70% throttle limiter switch is great for kids and beginners who need to practice before reaching the top speeds
- Comes with a screwdriver and spare clips included for basic maintenance
- Runs on every surface and can scale uneven areas with no problem
Cons
- To reach the very top speeds, you will need to upgrade the battery
- Plastic CV axle joints are fairly flimsy
The DEERC 9500E 1:16 High Speed RC Monster Truck strikes that optimum balance between power, durability and off-road capability. It’s been designed for varying terrains, with the large wheels meaning it can scale bumpy roads, whiz around dirt tracks and much more. It reaches speeds of up to 25 mph.
The design is pretty stand out, with a 1/16 scale and rugged build. The large tires and 4WD system provide good traction, and controlling the power is a breeze thanks to the included remote control system. The steering is surprisingly precise and the throttle can be controlled. This means beginners can practice using it at slower speeds.
It has a brushed motor, so while it lacks the acceleration of brushless models, it’s a better choice for beginners. It has been designed primarily for children, but adults will love it too. The build quality is very good, and it can certainly withstand beginner driving!
The dual motors allow it to tackle 50-degree slopes, so it’s a good option for varying terrains and bumpy roads. The splash-proof design means wetter roads are no problem, and you can also drive it on the beach, on dirt tracks and on concrete.
You’ve got two batteries included, each with a run time of around 20 minutes. The charge time is 2 hours which is faster than a lot of other models I’ve recommended.
Some users have commented that the batteries don’t last as long as advertised. If you’re tackling tough roads at top speeds, you may find they drain faster.
Although very sturdy, there are a couple of parts that could be better quality, but you’d half-expect this from a budget model.
Overall, a fantastic all-terrain monster truck. It does everything you’d expect and comes in at a very reasonable price.
At a glance
- Scale
- 1:16
- Max. Speed
- 40 kph
- Charge Time
- 2 hours
- Run Time
- 40 mins
- Body Material
- PVC
- Drive Type (2WD or 4WD)
- 4WD
The DEERC 9500E 1:16 High Speed RC Monster Truck strikes that optimum balance between power, durability and off-road capability. It’s been designed for varying terrains, with the large wheels meaning it can scale bumpy roads, whiz around dirt tracks and much more. It reaches speeds of up to 25 mph.
The design is pretty stand out, with a 1/16 scale and rugged build. The large tires and 4WD system provide good traction, and controlling the power is a breeze thanks to the included remote control system. The steering is surprisingly precise and the throttle can be controlled. This means beginners can practice using it at slower speeds.
It has a brushed motor, so while it lacks the acceleration of brushless models, it’s a better choice for beginners. It has been designed primarily for children, but adults will love it too. The build quality is very good, and it can certainly withstand beginner driving!
The dual motors allow it to tackle 50-degree slopes, so it’s a good option for varying terrains and bumpy roads. The splash-proof design means wetter roads are no problem, and you can also drive it on the beach, on dirt tracks and on concrete.
You’ve got two batteries included, each with a run time of around 20 minutes. The charge time is 2 hours which is faster than a lot of other models I’ve recommended.
Some users have commented that the batteries don’t last as long as advertised. If you’re tackling tough roads at top speeds, you may find they drain faster.
Although very sturdy, there are a couple of parts that could be better quality, but you’d half-expect this from a budget model.
Overall, a fantastic all-terrain monster truck. It does everything you’d expect and comes in at a very reasonable price.
Pros
- Suitable for a range of terrains including dirt tracks and grass
- Top speed adjustment control means beginners can practice using it at slower speeds
- Although designed for kids, it’s a lot of fun for adults too
- Comes with two batteries included
- Very sturdy so can do lots of jumps and is a good choice for ‘bashing’
Cons
- Some users have commented that the batteries don’t last as long as advertised
- Although fairly sturdy, some parts feel a little flimsy
Available in a 1:16 scale, the Rhybor 9500E High Speed 1:16 RC Car is compact and stylish. It has engaging graphics and a realistic monster truck design that’ll provide hours of fun for both kids and adults.
Beginners will love getting to grips with this little RC. The top speed of 25 mph will provide a thrill yet the truck remains easy to control. The twin 280 motors give it a decent acceleration, while proportional throttle control ensures you can drive at slower speeds if needed.
There are 2 batteries included, each with a very impressive run time of 40 minutes. This gives you a total operating time of 80 minutes, which is much longer than some of the others I have tested!
It’s been designed for varying terrains (although anything too rough should be avoided). There’s a 4-wheel independent damping suspension system in both the front and rear, and a 2 kg torque professional servo. This gives you a stable drive, even at the very top speeds.
While it feels fairly durable, budget RCs are unlikely to have the durability of more expensive models. If you crash this vehicle, the body can detach itself from the chassis. This isn’t too much of an issue as it can simply be attached back into place, but it’s worth bearing in mind for your first few drives!
All things considered, I can see this RC monster truck providing hours of fun for both kids and adults. It’s beginner-friendly and easy to drive, which gives it a few bonus points in my book!
At a glance
- Scale
- 1:16
- Max. Speed
- 40 kph
- Run Time
- 40 mins
- Drive Type (2WD or 4WD)
- 4WD
Available in a 1:16 scale, the Rhybor 9500E High Speed 1:16 RC Car is compact and stylish. It has engaging graphics and a realistic monster truck design that’ll provide hours of fun for both kids and adults.
Beginners will love getting to grips with this little RC. The top speed of 25 mph will provide a thrill yet the truck remains easy to control. The twin 280 motors give it a decent acceleration, while proportional throttle control ensures you can drive at slower speeds if needed.
There are 2 batteries included, each with a very impressive run time of 40 minutes. This gives you a total operating time of 80 minutes, which is much longer than some of the others I have tested!
It’s been designed for varying terrains (although anything too rough should be avoided). There’s a 4-wheel independent damping suspension system in both the front and rear, and a 2 kg torque professional servo. This gives you a stable drive, even at the very top speeds.
While it feels fairly durable, budget RCs are unlikely to have the durability of more expensive models. If you crash this vehicle, the body can detach itself from the chassis. This isn’t too much of an issue as it can simply be attached back into place, but it’s worth bearing in mind for your first few drives!
All things considered, I can see this RC monster truck providing hours of fun for both kids and adults. It’s beginner-friendly and easy to drive, which gives it a few bonus points in my book!
Pros
- Twin motors allow it to reach a top speed of 25 mph
- 2 batteries included, each with a good run time of 40 mins
- The damping suspension system in front and rear protects the electronics when navigating difficult terrains
- The tires are good quality with enhanced grip and anti-slip properties
- Variable speed means kids and beginners can practice at a lower speed until they have mastered the controls
Cons
- If you hit something too fast the body can detach itself from the chassis and needs to be put back into place
Tips for Buying The Best RC Car Under $100
- $100 is still a decent budget for an RC car, so you’ve got a lot of options when it comes to type. You’ll need to decide whether you want a car, buggy or monster truck. That is, whether you value speed, off-road capabilities or sheer power!
- Most budget RCs are going to be battery-powered. The battery life can make a big difference to your enjoyment. Look for a long battery life or a model that comes with a spare battery
- You should also look at extra features. Your car might have LED lights or extra grippy tires that enable it to tackle a variety of terrains
- Another choice is between 4WD vs. 2WD. 2WDs tend to be cheaper, easier to maintain and more durable. 4WDs provide more of a thrill but can cost slightly more
FAQs
Can I find high-speed RC cars under $100?
While the highest-speed RC cars may be out of the $100 range, there are still a number of options that offer good speeds at more affordable prices. Look for those with brushless motors or powerful electric models, as these often reach speeds of 30 mph+.
Can you make a cheap RC car faster?
In most cases, yes. You can speed up your cheap RC car. Upgrading the motor or installing a more powerful battery can certainly help. Other small tweaks include altering the gear ratio, replacing the ball bearings and replacing the wheels can also increase the maximum speed.
Are there any RC cars under $100 suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are plenty of RC cars for under $100 that are good for beginners and children. These models usually arrive ready-to-run, with an electric motor.
