10 Best RC Cars in 2024 (My Top Picks)

Remote control (RC) cars provide an incredibly fun and engaging hobby for enthusiasts of all ages. From recreationally zipping around the backyard to competitively racing at the track, RC cars deliver an adrenaline-filled ride every time.

As RC technology continues advancing rapidly, an influx of new models with innovative features and heightened performance hit the market each year. With so many options to choose from, it can prove daunting finding the right fit for your needs and budget.

To help simplify your search, we compiled a definitive list of the 10 best RC cars releasing in 2024. We’ll provide an in-depth overview of each vehicle covering critical specifications, top capabilities, primary applications, and ideal users.

Whether a beginner buying your first model or a seasoned veteran looking to add to your collection, our guide details the premier picks spanning all skill levels.

Before jumping into the rankings, let’s first review some key factors to consider when selecting an RC car.

What To Look For When Buying an RC Car？

Intended Use

Identifying how you plan to drive helps narrow suitable models. Will you bash around off-road trails? Zip along smooth tracks for racing? Perform stunts and jumps at the skatepark? Or recreationally drive in your backyard? Consider where and how you intends to operate.

Certain vehicles cater towards specific environments. For example, short course trucks work well for racing whereas monster trucks and rock crawlers tackle rough terrain. Think about setting expectations upfront.

Skill Level

Determine your current skill level. Advanced models deliver blazing fast speeds and extreme maneuverability but prove incredibly difficult to control for beginners. Start with an entry-level vehicle, then work towards intermediate and advanced options as skills progress.

Also, consider parts availability. As a novice, you’ll likely crash often initially. Beginner-friendly vehicles tend to have readily available replacement parts at affordable prices.

Budget

Prices run the gamut from under $100 to over $1,000. Setting a budget helps filter choices. Typically, performance and capabilities grow steadily alongside price. Consider not just upfront cost, but also operating expenses like replacement parts and batteries. Create room to grow in the hobby.

With those key factors covered, let’s countdown the 10 best RC cars for 2023!

10. Traxxas Maxx V2 RC Car

Tracing its origin back over 15 years to the original Traxxas Revo 3.3 nitro monster truck, the Maxx firmly cemented itself as one of the most rugged and durable RC basher trucks ever produced. The newest second generation V2 iteration enhances the ruggedness through a stretched wider and longer wheelbase over its predecessor resulting in even greater stability.

It retains the familiar sturdy metal drivetrain and robust 4S capable Velineon brushless motor pumping out proven power. Traxxas stuffs the Maxx with innovative features like TQi radio technology enabling wireless connectivity between the truck and transmitter. The transmitter provides real-time telemetry data on vitals like speed, RPM, temperature, and battery voltage.

Aesthetically, the Maxx V2 mimics the iconic grapple truck look complimented with meaty tires, built-in wheelie bar, and menacing grille. Pick between 6 bold color schemes and upgrade modular components like the gear cover and bumpers. It even includes underglow lighting effects for style points.

Despite the added size and horsepower, it still delivers the reliability and durability that makes it one of the best RC basher trucks available. Expect it to withstand inevitable crashes and endure hardcore bashing sessions with minimal damage thanks to the reinforced chassis and driveline. It just begs to be pushed to the limits!

Specifications

• Scale: 1/10
• Length: 23.1in (587mm)
• Width: 16.7in (425mm)
• Height: 10.1in (256mm)
• Weight: 10.72lbs (4.9kg)
• Motor: Velineon 1400KV Brushless
• Battery: 7-Cell NiMH or 2-3S LiPo
• Speed: 30+ mph

Best For: Bashing, racing, stunts

Skill Level: Intermediate

9. Team Corally Sketer RC Car

As the newest manufacturer featured, Corally made a huge splash when unveiling their debut short course racing truck named the Skeeter in 2022. What immediately stands out is the ingenious decision to amplify the size and components to essentially 1/8 scale metrics while retaining a small 1/10 scale body.

This innovative move allows fitting much larger electronics like the included 3650KV 4S-capable brushless system inside leading to staggering performance. Expect borderline unbelievable speeds exceeding 45+ MPH on just 3S battery power. It translates raw power into intense acceleration and easily controllable slides around corners.

The advanced powerplant nestles inside a highly durable chassis comprised of 6061 aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and heat resistant PETG plastic capable of withstanding nasty crashes. Adjustability abounds through the fully customizable suspension and included shock tuning springs and oils. It even features an easily replaceable front bumper and skid guard for absorbing impacts.

While marketed as a short course truck, the abundantly grippy tires make it well suited for bashing off-road or hitting the skatepark too. Given its debut success, exciting new models are surely in store from Corally. For now, the Skeeter offers incredible bang-for-buck value wrapped in a fast, furious package.

Specifications

• Scale: 1/10
• Length 16in (406mm)
• Width: 12in (305mm)
• Height: 7in (178mm)
• Weight: 6lbs (2.7kg)
• Motor: 3650KV Brushless
• Battery: 2-3S LiPo
• Speed: 45+ mph

Best For: Racing, bashing, stunts

Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

8. Traxxas Sledge RC Car

Specifications

• Scale: 1/10
• Length: 21.3in (540mm)
• Width: 16.5in (419mm)
• Height: 10.1in (257mm)
• Weight: 11.68lbs (5.3kg)
• Motor: Velineon 1500KV Brushless
• Battery: 4S LiPo
• Speed: 50+ mph

Debuting as Traxxas first tenth scale 4X4 short-course truck, the Sledge rolled onto the scene with some large shoes to fill. Drawing immediate comparisons to perennial top basher the Arrma Outcast 6S due to uncanny aesthetic similarities, it needed to deliver performance validating itself amongst elite competition.

It promptly silenced critics through absolutely massive 55+ MPH top speeds ripping on 4S LiPo power nearly matching the 6S-powered Outcast. Traxxas further stuffed it with innovative technology like the customizable Multi-Function knob, Bluetooth telemetry connectivity, Center of Gravity chassis balancing handling, and proven watertight electronics throughout.

While slightly smaller in stature than typical 1/8 scale models, the Sledge wants to play outside its weight class thanks abundant power. It retains familiar Traxxas hallmarks like the modular TSM stability management system and rugged build quality with metal gears, oil filled shocks, and tough racing tires. Expect it to stand up and keep ticking through harsh landings off giant launches.

It certainly holds its own bashing head-to-head against any rival truck. Between a hard hitting brushless system, smart handling, and trademark Traxxas support, the Sledge hammers down as a ferocious short-course truck befitting of its menacing name.

Best For: Bashing, racing

Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

7. Arrma Fireteam RC Car

Specifications

• Scale: 1/7
• Length: 21.7in (552mm)
• Width: 16.7in (425mm)
• Height: 9.8in (249mm)
• Weight: 12.12lbs (5.5kg)
• Motor: 1650KV Brushless
• Battery: 6S LiPo
• Speed: 45+ mph

The Fireteam marks Arrma’s first release blending scale crawling looks with bash ready durability and extreme brushless power into one package. It essentially mimics the footprint dimensions of their proven Mojave platform while matching the width specs of the notorious Roller. This ingenious mashup produces a machine delivering speed and nimbleness belying its aesthetic prowess.

Arrma equips it with functional innovations absent on any rival model, notably the clever handbrake mechanism enabling experienced drivers to initiate power slides by locking the rear tires. It tames the beastly 1650Kv motor through smart differentials and drivetrain helping translate brute power into controlled acceleration and precision steering.

It retains familiar Arrma hallmarks like splashproof electronics throughout and rugged dependability to withstand inevitable crashes. Expect RC enthusiasts and hardcore bashers to flock towards this uniquely original and wickedly fast truck built to own the streets. Between arresting looks and pavement punishing performance, the Fireteam sets itself apart from the pack in a blaze of glory.

Best For: Bashing, racing

Skill Level: Expert

6. MJX Hyper Go RC Monster Truck

Specifications

• Scale: 1/12
• Length: 14.2in (360mm)
• Width: 7.6in (193mm)
• Height: 5.9in (150mm)
• Weight: 4.19 lbs (1.9kg)
• Motor: 3542 3900KV Brushless
• Battery: 7.4V 2S LiPo
• Speed: 25+ mph

As the smallest RC featured, the humble MJX Bugs mini electric doesn’t aim to set land speed records or pull double backflips. Instead, it focuses on delivering maximum fun at a minimal price point. Topping out around 25 MPH on 2S battery power easily clinches its title as the fastest ready-to-run 1/12 scale RC available.

It packages surprising speed and agility within a durable four wheel drive drivetrain and steady chassis balancing nimble handling against stability. MJX simplifies repairs through quick access to components like differentials, slipper clutch assembly, and brushed motor without fully disassembling the truck.

While its small stature limits traversing deeply rutted trails or soaring sky high jumps, it chomps through smaller obstacles like grass, dirt mounds, and packed soil with confidence. An excellent starter RC for younger enthusiasts or casual hobbyists not yet ready to commit towards a large-scale investment, the Micro Bugs 12E punches far above its petite weight.

Best For: Backyard bashing, indoor driving

Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

5. Team Corally Kronos XTR RC Car

Specifications

• Scale: 1/8
• Length: 21.85in (555mm)
• Width: 16.14in (410mm)
• Height: 10.43in (265mm)
• Weight: 17.6lbs (8kg)
• Motor: 2080KV Brushless
• Battery: 4S LiPo
• Speed: 45 mph

Still flying under the mainstream radar for most RC enthusiasts, Team Corally aim to change perceptions with the Chronos XTR buggy representing the pinnacle of performance and innovation in their lineup. It incorporates high-end racing pedigree through a full 7075 aluminum chassis and suspension links providing the ideal rigid and lightweight platform for harnessing brushless power.

Outfitted with a 4S capable 2080Kv powerplant, it rockets from 0-45 MPH in seconds thanks abundant acceleration and grip. Expect it to handle corners and jumps with poise through fully adjustable suspension and steering geometry keeping all four tires planted. Additional upgrades like aluminum shock caps, adjustable sway bars, and an aluminum servo horn tighten nimbleness further.

It retains necessary basher durability through smart elements like angled front suspension guarding vital components and universal driveshafts handling extreme loads. While marketed as a do-it-all basher, make no mistake that the Chronos leans closer towards a race buggy pedigree. It begs enthusiasts to push handling limits without compromising resilience against crashes.

Best For: Racing, bashing

Skill Level: Advanced

Here is a continuation of the article starting from the Arrma Infraction section:

4. Arrma Infraction 3S RC Car

Specifications

• Scale: 1/8
• Length: 21in (534mm)
• Width: 11.6in (295mm)
• Height: 7.9in (200mm)
• Weight: 9.48lbs (4.3kg)
• Motor: 1550Kv Brushless
• Battery: 3S LiPo
• Speed: 45+ mph

Living up to its name, the Infraction breaks RC conventions by delivering astonishing 3S powered speed and acceleration befitting high-end 8th scale models into an accessible 1/8 platform. It shares the same BLX 185 drivetrain underpinning notorious Arrma models like the Notorious delivering face melting velocity.

Arrma optimizes durability and handling through smart chassis balancing and weight distribution. Completely waterproof electronics enable driving through puddles, mud, and wet grass without issue. It features Arrma’s modular BLX system for quickly swapping components like the motor or ESC by hand.

While intended for on-road use, the ample ground clearance and grippy all-terrain tires make transitioning to loose dirt or gravel easy. Home the package together with sharp looks emulating the modern muscle car aesthetic finished with wheelie popping power.

Offering supreme brushless muscle containment within a resilient chassis at a reasonable cost, the Infraction 3S stands tall amongst Arrma’s street basher lineup. It challenges RC enthusiasts to tame the beast lurking beneath its hood through a perfect blend of beauty and brawn.

Best For: On-road bashing and stunts

Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced

No, the article is not yet finished. Here is a continuation:

3. Rlaarlo AM-X12 RC Car

Specifications

• Scale: 1/8
• Length: 19.29in (490mm)
• Width: 11.81in (300mm)
• Height: 8.66in (220mm)
• Weight: 10.36lbs (4.7kg)
• Motor: 3660KV Brushless
• Battery: 4S LiPo
• Speed: 60+ mph

Building upon success of the Chronos platform, Corally miniaturized the formula into a more compact and affordable 1/8 sized variant dubbed the Kronos XTR. The advanced carbon fiber, aluminum, and steel chassis drops weight while maintaining proven durability to withstand harsh racing conditions.

It smartly retains the adjustable suspension geometry, aluminum shock towers, sturdy driveshafts and tuning capability also found in its pricier sibling. Expect similar poise blasting over jumps or carving through winding dirt tracks thanks to optimized handling.

The smaller footprint receives an even bigger power upgrade via a sensational 3660Kv brushless system pushing limits to 60+ MPH on 4S LiPo batteries. It provides loads of controllable acceleration handled with aplomb by the race-tuned suspension. Corally leaves little doubt this miniature rocket hits the sweet spot merging durability, technology and blistering speed into a single dominant package destined for podium finishes.

Best For: Racing, bashing

Skill Level: Advanced

Here’s one more top pick for 2023:

2. Arrma 4S

Specifications

• Scale: 1/5
• Length: 24.4in (620mm)
• Width: 20.5in (520mm)
• Height: 11in (280mm)
• Weight: 26.2lbs (11.9kg)
• Motor: 2028KV Brushless
• Battery: 8S LiPo
• Speed: 80 mph

Evolving from the notorious 6S variant tearing up backyards worldwide, arrma supersized its flagship monster truck fitting even larger power to match the imposing figure. The Outcast 8S retains inherent durability through an aluminum chassis and beefy suspension while stretching width and loads to handle more extreme bashing.

It maxes out mind blowing brushless potential thanks to cutting edge 8S LiPo battery compatibility pumping juice to the mammoth 2028Kv motor. That translates into an Earth-shattering 80MPH top speed clearing 100ft jumps with room to spare. Dual battery support extends demanding runtimes keeping the action ongoing.

About the only thing more shocking than record setting box-stock power is the surprisingly reasonable price getting enthusiasts behind its wheel. Just be warned – this RC harbors truly frightening potential just waiting to be unlocked in the right hands capable of taming its daunting capabilities!

Best For: Extreme bashing

Skill Level: Expert

1. Traxxas XRT RC Car

Specifications

• Scale: 1/5
• Length: 30.5in (775mm)
• Width: 20.2in (514mm)
• Height: 11.6in (295mm)
• Weight: 16.2kg (35.6lbs)
• Motor: Titan 21T Brushless
• Battery: 4S LiPo
• Speed: 30+ mph

Tracing its origin back over 15 years to the original Traxxas Revo 3.3 nitro monster truck, the X-Maxx firmly cemented itself as one of the most rugged and durable RC basher trucks ever produced. Incorporating a lot of the Traxxas smashed and making a truckiest monster truck, there are still a lot of changes comparing it to the x-maxx.

The Traxxas x-max retains inherent durability through an aluminum chassis and beefy suspension. It maxes out brushless potential thanks to 4S LiPo battery compatibility pumping juice to the mammoth Titan 21T motor. That translates into an Earth-shattering 30+MPH top speed clearing 100ft jumps with room to spare.

With its iconic style cementing its position atop the bashing food chain, the x-max has to be one if not the most durable 10 scale RC car on the market, and it is definitely a go-to basher. The X-Maxx comes in all different colors, with the option to change up and modify if you desire. Being a Traxxas vehicle, of course parts are super easy to obtain.

Best For: Extreme bashing

Skill Level: Expert

Final Thoughts

There you have it – the definitive top 10 list of the best RC cars releasing in 2023! We covered all skill levels from beginners to experts and vehicles catering towards different applications – racing, bashing, stunts and backyard recreation.

Hopefully the detailed overviews and buying considerations help match you to your ideal RC car aligned with budget, intended use and abilities behind the controller. With continual advancements improving performance, durability and technology integration, the RC hobby keeps growing more exciting each year.

Remember to factor in not just upfront vehicle cost, but also operating expenses like replacement batteries and parts which sneak up over time. Invest in quality from reputable brands for longest enjoyment. Consider joining local clubs to meet fellow enthusiasts and unlock additional guidance as you develop driving skills further.

Most importantly – have fun shopping for your new RC! Throw caution and budget to the wind by grabbing the biggest, baddest high powered monster machine your money can buy! Or rein things in through a modest starter model perfect for getting acclimated while avoiding needless repair bills.

Whatever option you decide on, enjoy the thrill only radio controlled cars can provide. See you at the tracks, trails and bash spot!