Best RC Cars under $100
Also known as RC trucks, remote-controlled trucks, have become popular with both young kids and adults. Usually, they’re one-foot long and may be used for racing or rock crawling. It’s not long before someone gets hooked on these toys, so here is a buying guide on the best RC trucks under 100 USD in December 2024 to help you find the best ones on the market.
If you're pressed for time, here's my top picks of the best rc cars under $100.
Table of contents:
- Best RC Cars Under $100 - Buyer’s Guide
- Best RC Cars Under $100 – TOP 7
- Best RC Cars Under $100 - Comparison
- Fast RC Cars Under $100
- Best Off Road RC Car Under $100
- Brushless RC Cars Under $100
- Best RC Crawlers Under $100
- Best RC Buggy Under $100
- Best RC Monster Truck Under $100
- Gas Powered RC Cars Under $100
- Traxxas RC Cars Under $100
- Frequently Asked Questions about Best RC Cars Under $100
- Best RC Cars Under $100: Conclusion
Best RC Cars Under $100 - Buyer’s Guide
Given the growing demand for radio-controlled cars, it is very important to understand what to look for when buying rc cars. Based on our experience, we offer several important factors to consider:
1:18 DEERC 9300 High Speed RC Monster Truck
Battery Life
There are two options in choosing the best radio-controlled trucks: Li-Po and Ni-Mh. Li-Po batteries are powerful and for experienced users, while the latter is easier to use and designed for beginners. Li-Po batteries produce more energy but are more expensive. Other brands of batteries only last for 15 minutes, while some run longer on a single charge.
Speed
They usually build the best RC trucks for speed. They make these truck vehicles to be fast and ride smoothly on race tracks. Also, one thing you should focus on is if the steering wheel and controls are easy to manage when at top speed. For example 1:18 DEERC 9300 with 40+ speed (km/h).
Durability
Surely, you’ll want your RC truck to last longer so you won’t have to spend much on replacing it. The best way in doing this is to choose a product which is made of high-quality parts. The best remote-controlled trucks will be firm with a strong chassis. You want to make sure that the internal parts stay protected so they don’t break if the toy, by any chance, flips over.
Control Range
This is where you measure how far you can drive the truck away from the transmitter before controlling it, which makes it more challenging. A control range of 30 meters should be ready. There’s no fun if you cannot control your vehicle from a certain distance.
Ease of Use
Distinct types of RC trucks will surely suit your needs. Whether you’d like the best 4WD RC truck or the best 1:10 scale one, there’s always something for everyone. However, some are easier to use than others. You should also check the age limit in the product description, so you can distinguish how advanced the toy car is.
Two-Wheel Drive vs. Four-Wheel Drive
Two-wheel drive RC trucks are much cheaper, more durable, and easier to maintain. Unfortunately, they’re not as fast as the best 4×4 RC vehicles. Four-wheel-drive RC vehicles are much faster, aggressive, and more robust. They are the most popular, but both types are fun to use.
Ground
When choosing your remote-controlled car or truck, think about where you’ll be using that vehicle. Will it pass on smooth grounds and even grass or pavements, or even gravel or sand? RC trucks could cover unfamiliar areas, but some truck vehicles are better on muddy grounds and rocky trails.
Nitro power or electric?
It is recommended that you use an electric truck or car first. They are less expensive, easier to maintain, much quieter, and require less maintenance compared to nitro power models. But if you prefer nothing else but real engine power, go for nitro. It is the best choice, and they design various types of cars and trucks for beginner-type drivers. With that being said, going nitro power will surely influence your decision between a kit and a Ready to Run (RTR) car.
1:16 Legendary Sonic
Tips Helping To Buy the Best RC Car
Now that you have decided about choosing whether off-road or on-road, kit or Ready to Run (RTR) car, and nitro-powered model or electric, now would be the time to narrow down your choices. You know what kind of vehicle you will get, but how will you choose? Consider:
Keep Your Budget in Mind
Buying an RC truck vehicle is more than to the RC itself – you’ll need support equipment. Make sure you have the complete breakdown of everything that you will need in completing and running your car. If you will buy a kit, make sure it has a full radio system, fuel, charged, and such, depending on the kit itself. For some RTR cars, you will only need a few AA batteries for the transmitter and fuel. For more information, you can also check on the “What You Need” checklist.
Look at What your Friends Have
If almost all of your friends run RC monster trucks and you’re the only one running a simple car, you may wish you had a monster truck as well. You may also consider buying the same model as most of your guy friends have. With this, you will all have the same performance. There’s no fun when someone else has a faster car than you, it will just look like a competition.
Check Local Shops on What They Sell
Even if you purchase your new RC truck vehicle via delivery, still try to consider what the local shops sell and what they support. Also, bringing the parts that you need to keep your truck vehicle from running, you’ll be able to contact the shop’s experience with your specific machine.
1:14 Bezgar 17
Best RC Cars Under $100 – TOP 7
Discover my curated list of the best rc cars under $100, offering unmatched performance, durability, and unique features.
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- Run Time: 40 min. Speed: 30 MPH
- Brushless 380 high speed motor. High Toughness PVC Car Shell. Remote Distance: 263 ft
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. Motor: Powerful. Battery Capability: 2 x 3.7V/1500mAh Lithium battery pack
- 2.4 GHz. Playing Time 16 min. Speed: 36 km/h
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4WD. Brushed Electric Double Motor. Speed up to 25 mph. Oil FilledMetal Shocks. Foam Filled Tires. 45 Degree Climbing Ability
- 4GHZ RC, with 2 Speed Models. Two lip-to 7.4V 1000 mAh Rechargeable Batteries. Enough for up to 40 Min of Run
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4WD. Motor: Built-in. Battery Capability: 4.8v 800mAh rechargeable battery
- 2.4 GHz. Playing Time 40 min. Speed: 20 km/h
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD, 20000 Turn brushed motor. IPX4
- 2.4GHz RC, with 2 speed modes. One 7.4V 500mAh rechageable battary. Enough for up to 10-15 min of run
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4WD. Motor: Front and Gear Dual Motors. Battery Capability: 6V 800mAh
- 2.4 GHz. Playing Time 60 min. Speed: 6 km/h
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4WD. Motor: Powerful. Battery Capability: batteries: 2 x 3.6V 380 mAh rechargeable. Metal Body. Anti-Crash
- 2.4 GHz. Playing Time 30 min each battery. Speed: 10-20 km/h
Best RC Cars Under $100 - Comparison
Now let's take a closer look at each of these models under $100.
| RC Car Model | GHz Radio System | Battery (mAh ) | Speed (km/h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:18 DEERC 9300 HIGH SPEED RC MONSTER TRUCK | 2.4GHz | 850 | 40+ |
| 1:18 HAIBOXING All Terrain RC Car | 2.4GHz | 1500 | 36 |
| 1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC RC OFF ROAD MONSTER TRUCK | 2.4GHz | 1000 | 20 - 30 |
| 1:14 BEZGAR 17 RC Rock Crawler | 2.4GHz | 800 | 30 |
| 1:16 HOSIM RC Monster Truck | 2.4GHz | 500 | 36 |
| 1:12 DOUBLE E RC Cars Monster Truck | 2.4GHz | 800 | 6 |
| 1:24 Dodoeleph RC High Speed Drift Car | 2.4GHz | 380 | 10-20 |
1:18 DEERC 9300 High Speed RC Monster Truck Review
Editor's Choice
The DEERC 9300 High-Speed Radio Controlled Monster Truck in 1:18 scale is an impressive remote control vehicle that delivers exciting performance and fun for both beginners and advanced radio controlled truck enthusiasts.
One of the features of this radio-controlled truck is the presence of two 7.4V/850mAh batteries, which provides an impressive total runtime of about 40+ minutes (20+ minutes per battery). Such a long runtime means more fun to play without frequent battery changes. A chassis made of nylon adds to the machine's overall durability, making it a reliable and durable choice for radio controlled truck enthusiasts.
The DEERC 9300 RC is equipped with a 2.4 GHz remote control system that allows for precise and proportional throttle and speed control. Adjusting the speed switch clockwise increases the speed of movement, and counterclockwise reduces it. Steering allows you to precisely control the direction of the wheels. The indicator on the remote control confirms a successful connection between the remote control and the radio-controlled machine.
Equipped with a 380 rpm and 21500 rpm motor, this monster truck boasts an impressive top speed of 40+ km/h, providing thrilling acceleration and exciting driving dynamics. The metal radiator covering the engine ensures efficient heat dissipation, extending engine life for long-lasting enjoyment.
- Overall Ultra-stable Structure
- Off-road performance
- High quality PVC material shell
- The controller quality could be better
Summary: As indicated by my tests the DEERC 9300 High-Speed RC Monster Truck is a fantastic hobby car that offers both beginners and experienced racers an exciting and adventurous experience. With a powerful engine, sturdy construction and included accessories, this radio-controlled car promises endless hours of excitement and enjoyment on any terrain.
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1:18 HAIBOXING All Terrain RC Car Review
Best Overall
This all-terrain off-road truck is the best choice to gift for boys. It runs up to 30mph, which operators find it marvelous and outgoing. It has a four-wheel-drive electric vehicle and is supported by designed steady suspensions. Because it is powerful, it can gain excellent performance, it allows it make quick battery access and of soft composite material. Whether you’re on the road, this best RC trucks under $100 won’t let you down.
The best part of this RC car is its high grip tires and firm suspension. To achieve high performance, its chassis is durable and speedy and is designed with classic ball bearings and solid gear differences. They also equip the car with two 7.4V rechargeable Li-ion batteries that can run up to thirty minutes.
The HAIBOXING brushed RC car comes with a 2.4GHz transmitter and provides a control range of 100 meters. With 2.4GHz technology, you can rely on the brake and reverse as it won’t fail. You can easily control this car of up to 100 meters (328 feet). With its Slow/Fast speed switch feature, it allows beginners or experts to easily navigate the car.
This off-road, all-terrain RC toy car is made with classic ball bearings. Its spring coil shock has a front and rear independent suspension, and it also has high grip tires. This RC car is perfect for sand, mud, or mountain roads, and one of the best fast RC cars among not expensive.
Pros:
- Two lasting rechargeable batteries
- High grip off-road tire
- Extremely fast
- Very durable
- Manual has all the parts and part numbers (if it needs replacements)
- Amazing balance of performance and value
- Solid PVC truck body
Cons:
- Not water-resistant
- Enjoyable but will breakdown most eventually
Summary: My findings show that the 1:18 HAIBOXING All Terrain RC Car is a powerful and versatile off-road truck with a top speed of 30 mph and a stable suspension, it provides excellent performance on a variety of terrains. Equipped with high-grip tires, a sturdy chassis, and a 2.4GHz transmitter for reliable control up to 100 meters away.
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1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC RC Off Road Monster Truck Review
Premium Choice
When you buy, this waterproof 4×4 off-road RC truck comes fully assembled and ready to use straight out of its box. No matter it’s just 1:20 scale it can run up to 30 km per hour (20 miles per hours). This 4WD 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 it within a range up to 200 feet, thus making it a perfect gift for your friends or family.
Pros:
- Extended Run time
- 2-speed modes
- Safe for storing, transporting and charging batteries
Cons:
- Some users claim there is a problem with its reverse mechanism
Summary: Based on my observations, the 1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC RC Off Road Monster Truck is a fully assembled and waterproof 4x4 radio-controlled truck that reaches speeds of up to 30 km/h (20 mph) on any terrain. With its easy-to-use 2.4GHz radio control and two-speed modes, both beginners and experts can enjoy flawless handling, traction, and durability up to 200 feet away.
1:14 BEZGAR 17 RC Rock Crawler Review
Best Budget
With its metal panels, this car body is appealing and will help you send an impressive statement among your peers. The Bezgar 17 has very responsive steering and drive motors for easy terrain drive-starting for beginner RC users. It’s an impressively fast car that’s best suitable for bare surfaces such as the pavement. But if you love some fun in the grass, it does pretty okay too. When you receive the premium pack, you get 6v 800mAh batteries that can last you between 20-30 minutes on a full charge, depending on your speed. The sturdy scratch-resistant shell of this car’s body and the al-alloy frame offers its components optimum protection even on rough tracks.
Pros:
- Excellent thick front and rear bumper for maximum collision related protection
- Appealing front headlights for a realist racecar appearance
- Fantastic battery life, plus you can get more pairs
- Easy setup
Cons:
- The battery compartment might be too tight
- You might need to use superglue on tires to avoid frequent popping off
Summary: The 1:14 BEZGAR 17 RC Rock Crawler is a bright and well-designed vehicle with metal panels that make a strong impression. It has responsive steering and drive motors, making it a great choice for beginners on different terrains.
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1:16 HOSIM RC Monster Truck Review
Best for Teens
This 1:16 scale RC monster truck is rather fast. All four driving wheels, a strong, powerful motor and anti-collision structure make it possible to drive on any road condition without getting stuck on larger obstacles on the way. This RC car can run up to 36km/h, whether on-road environments, thanks to its oversize wheels with anti-throw abilities. All metal-sealed ball bearings are flexible and shockproof functioned to protect the body.
This RC car also has a high capacity battery, running at 500mAh. The Lithium battery is creatively designed for RC racing experience. When running at full speed, this RC monster truck is the perfect choice for young kids and adults who can run up to 15 minutes at full speed. It has rubber tires made of high-quality PVC material and elastic features. A radio system and all-terrain capability provide better protection of the components of this RC truck.
Pros:
- All metal sealed ball bearing
- Super durable
- Great body shell
- Long-lasting battery life
- Replacement parts available
Cons:
- The battery may turn out to be defective
Summary: The 1:16 HOSIM RC Monster Truck is a fast and powerful off-road vehicle that can reach speeds of up to 36 km/h and runs for up to 15 minutes at full speed, making it ideal for driving over various terrains without getting stuck on obstacles.
1:12 DOUBLE E RC Cars Monster Truck Review
Best for Kids
This off-road RC monster truck is geared with front gear dual motors to move on any mountain terrain easily. It has a radio control system that allows unfamiliar RC vehicles to run at the same time. It also features the truck’s anti-collision ability to make it more stable, thanks to its flexible shock absorbers.
When you buy this off-road RC monster truck for a reasonable price it is not bad at all. It comes up with an USB charging cable and is convenient to charge through mobile phones, laptop, power bank, etc. This 4WD, 1:12 RC monster truck, climbs pretty much anything is below 6 inches and lower. It’s not that fast, but it climbs real good. All of its four tires seem to go at the same speed and pass through any mountain terrain.>
The Double E RC off-road rechargeable monster truck also comes with cool front lights to provide an impressive experience for kids. Whether you are a kid or an adult, this RC monster truck is the best choice where one can easily control it.
Pros:
- Equipped with a powerful battery pack for a long-lasting performance
- Simulated color lights for a realistic experience for kids
- Excellent road performance
- Can climb a vertical wall and flip the truck several times
Cons:
- Some users claim that if the truck is left on without playing, it drains the battery within just the day
Summary: The 1:12 DOUBLE E RC Cars Monster Truck is an inexpensive radio-controlled off-road vehicle with two front-wheel drive motors that easily traverses mountainous terrain. It has a stable design with flexible shock absorbers, which allows it to overcome obstacles less than 6 inches high with ease.
1:24 Dodoeleph RC High Speed Drift Car Review
Best Toy Size
This RC high-speed racing car comes with two rechargeable batteries and two dedicated batteries for transmitters, making it a superb choice for both adolescent boys and adults. It can play for 30 minutes with each battery.
When you buy this water-resistant JEYPOD remote control car RC truck, it comes fully assembled and is ready to use immediately. It can run up to 20 kilometers per hour, so fast that it can race more quickly than other cars. This 4WD, 1:24 RC monster truck, is proud of its flexibility, grip, and durability. And since it has the best high-quality tires, you can drive this RC car in all kinds of terrain such as sand, ground, or grassland.
The Dodoeleph RC High Speed Drift Car also provides a remote controller at 2.4GHz, with a distance of 50 to 80 meters. Even if you’re a beginner or an intermediate user, this RC truck is the best choice both for kids and adults can surely control.
Pros:
- Motor-powered
- Crash and shockproof
- Water-resistant>
Cons:
- The controller is too delicate
Summary: The 1:24 Dodoeleph RC High-Speed Drift Car is a versatile and fast radio-controlled racing car that comes with two batteries for long-lasting play. With a top speed of 20 kilometers per hour, it offers excellent flexibility, grip and durability, making it suitable for a variety of terrains such as sand, earth and grasslands.
Fast RC Cars Under $100
When thinking of buying a new RC car, speed is one of the main criteria of choice. We have selected for you the best not expensive RC cars with good speed and bashing potential. If you are just a beginner, remember that speed up to 20 mph will be more than enough to train and practice your new hobby.
Best Off Road RC Car Under $100
If you are a fan of adventurous drive outside your backyard, you will need an off-road RC car. It is great on the road, sand, stones and mud. Big wheels, durable suspension, waterproof features, speed - that's what you have to search for.
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4 WD. Brushless 380 high speed motor. High Toughness PVC Car Shell. Remote Distance: 263 ft
- 2.4 GHz. Run Time: 40 min. Speed: 30 MPH
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. Motor: Powerful. Battery Capability: 2 x 3.7V/1500mAh Lithium battery pack
- 2.4 GHz. Playing Time 16 min. Speed: 36 km/h
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD, 20000 Turn brushed motor. IPX4
- 2.4GHz RC, with 2 speed modes. One 7.4V 500mAh rechageable battary. Enough for up to 10-15 min of run
- Ready to Run. For 8+
- 4WD, 180 Brushed Motor. IPX5 Level Waterproof Standard
- 2.4 GHz. Playing Time 40 min. Speed: 35+ Km/h / 22+ mph
Brushless RC Cars Under $100
RC cars with brushless motor have better speed features and you can enjoy driving such a car for much longer time. Sometimes it's not an easy job to find really inexpensive and good quality car with such a motor. We have selected for you some decent choices. Most of them are not big scale, but good. If you are looking for a brushless RC car of 1/10, 1/12 scale, be ready to pay at least $200 for such a brushless rc car or more.
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- Run Time: 40 min. Speed: 37 MPH
- Brushless motor. 2 car shells. Remote Distance: 330 ft
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- Run Time: 40 min. Speed: 32 MPH
- 2845 Brushless motor. Remote Distance: up to 80m/262 ft
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- Run Time: 40 min. Speed: 30 MPH
- 4WD. Powerful new brushless motor. Independent front & rear suspensions, reinforced chassis. Durable body material
Best RC Crawlers Under $100
RC Crawlers, or Rock Crawlers, are special cars with special bending chassis that allow them to overcome incredible obstacles. They are slow cars for climbing over huge rocks. They are characterised by huge ground clearance, equally huge suspension travel, and low speed. If you are looking for a starting level6 choose one from the list below, or get to know more in our Best RC Rock Crawlers Review.
Best RC Buggy Under $100
RС buggies are equipped with a special chassis and suspension, allowing the car to overcome small obstacles, jump high and perform dizzying maneuvers. All-wheel drive allows you not to lose control, easily turning even at high speeds.
- Ready to Run. For 8+
- 26+ mph. Run Time: 40 min. Control range: 263 feet
- 4WD, All Terrain & Off-Road RC Car, 390 Brushed Motor, over-current protection. 2.4GHz frequency
- Ready to Run. For 14+
- 25+ mph. Run Time: 40 min. Control range: 263 feet
- 4WD, All Terrain & Off-Road RC Car, 380 Brushed Motor, 2*7.4V/850mAh high-quality rechargeable batteries. 2.4GHz frequency
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 23+ mph. Run Time: 30 min. Control range: 260 feet
- 4WD. Desert truck with an extended wheelbase. Powerful 390 brushed motor. IPX4 Splash Waterproof ESC. Durable body material. Top LED headlight
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. 540 Brushed Electric Motor. Speed up to 32 mph. 4WD. Cushioned. TPR Tires. 45 Degree Climbing Ability
- 2.4GHz RC. Remote Control Distance: about 330 feet, PVC explosion-proof car shell, LED Lights. 7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion Battery. Enough for up to 10-20 min of run
Best RC Monster Truck Under $100
Radio-controlled monster trucks are the most powerful and all-terrain models. Having such a truck, you can safely participate in the race on the pavement, on off-road, in the snow and just mash the dirt. Off-road monster truck on the remote control will bring a lot of fun to all children and adults.
Gas Powered RC Cars Under $100
This type of RC car is not so common. Gas powered RC cars have more expensive drive train than electric cars. If we add all together, you realise that is not possible to create a really cool and long lasting gas powered RC car for $100. But for $250-300 you can a good gas powered RC car.
Traxxas RC Cars Under $100
Being one on the really best and legendary RC cars and trucks producer, Traxxas have invested lots of money in their brand appearance, quality and durability. All that is reflected in the final price of Traxxas cars. But even among them you can find some inexpensive great Traxxas RC cars.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best RC Cars Under $100
One of the best things about RC truck vehicles is that there is a lot to choose from. But how will you pick the car or truck for you out of all the choices you have? All you have to do is reflect and ask questions to yourself. When buying your very first remote-controlled truck, consider asking these questions:
Off-road or on-road?
This is very simple: on-road cars will only be good to drive on pavements. If you are used to driving on-road RC truck vehicles, it’s better to go for an on-road car. But are you sure you won’t be tempted to drive your on-road car into the dirt or jump on it? Will it kill to know if you can’t? The best solution for this is to go for an off-road truck vehicle because regardless, it will work on pavements as well just like on-road ones.
Kit or Ready to Run cars?
It doesn’t matter whatever you choose between the two, this will all fall into your choice. If there’s no problem with you building or assembling things, you’ll also love assembling RC trucks. It’s simple yet fulfilling, and you’ll know it when your RC car is already done. But if you can’t survive with screwdrivers and mechanical tools, a Ready to Run car or RTR is the best way to go. If you’re just getting started with a truck, and you’re not the mechanical type of person, an RTR is a way to go. The truck will be assembled immediately, so you can focus on tuning the engine instead.
Are RC trucks water-resistant?
It varies on the brand. The best remote-controlled trucks or cars usually have waterproof equipment, but make sure you check the manufacturer’s description.
How long does RC truck vehicle batteries last?
RC car batteries typically last for up to 10-20 minutes. But if you can upgrade into a more expensive one that will give you a much longer time of play, like 30 to 40 minutes, go for it.
Best RC Cars Under $100: Conclusion
Finally, the world of radio controlled cars offers a wide range of options for the budget-conscious enthusiast, and the best radio controlled cars under $100 strike a great balance between affordability and performance. These budget-friendly models may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they offer impressive speed, handling, and durability for their price range.
When choosing the best machine under $100, it's important to consider factors such as speed, battery life, build quality, and ease of use. The DEERC 9300 High Speed Radio Controlled Monster Truck, HAIBOXING 1:18 Scale All Terrain RC Car or LAEGENDARY 1:16 Scale 4x4 Off-Road RC Truck is the best choice in this price range, offering powerful performance.
Ultimately, choosing the best model under $100 will depend on individual preferences and usage goals. Whether you're racing off-road, competing with friends, or just enjoying the thrill of driving, there are affordable options that can provide a lot of fun without breaking the bank.
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