Best RC Cars under $200
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 in 2024 to help you find the top trucks on the market.
If you're short on time, here are my top two rc cars under $200.
- 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. Battery Dynamite 7.4V 800mAh 2S 50C Li-Pol
Table of contents:
- Best RC Cars Under $200: Buyer’s Guide
- Best RC Cars Under $200 – TOP 7
- Best RC Cars Under 200: Comparison
- 1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC OFF ROAD MONSTER TRUCK RC Car
- 1:10 REDCAT RACING VOLCANO RC Car
- 1:10 TRAXXAS BANDIT XL-5 BUGGY RC Car
- 1:18 DEERC Brushless 300E RC Cars MONSTER TRUCK
- 1:10 DEERC 200E NEW RC MONSTER TRUCK
- 1:18 LOSI RC MINI-T 2.0 2WD STADIUM TRUCK
- 1:10 BEZGAR HM101 HOBBY GRADE RC CAR
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- Best SSD for Server: Conclusion
Best RC Cars Under $200: Buyer’s Guide
Drawing from our experience when exploring the world of RC cars with a budget of under $200, you'll find a wide range of options that offer a fantastic blend of performance, durability, and fun. Here are key factors to consider to make an informed purchase:
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.
1:16 Legendary Sonic
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 35+ miles per hour. For example, 1:16 LAEGENDARY Sonic with 35 miles per hour or 1:10 DEERC 200E with 37 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.
1:10 Bezgar HM101
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.
Best RC Cars Under $200 – TOP 7
Our top models of radio-controlled cars under $200 combine quality and performance to ensure you get the most out of your ride. Here's a quick look at what you can expect.
- 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-Pol 7.4V 1000mAh rechageable battaries. Enough for up to 40 min of run
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. 550 19 turns brushed motor. Waterproof 40amp Brushed ESC
- 2.4GHz RC, 7.2V 2000mAh Ni-MH Battery & Ni-MH Charger
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 2WD. Titan® 12-Turn 550 Modified Motor. Innovative watersealed design. Brushless Ready Magnum 272™ Transmission. Traxxas EZ-Set® one-button setup
- Traxxas TQ 2.4GHz radio system. ProGraphix® painted body. Battery and charger sold separately.
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD. Run Time: 40 min. Speed: 35 MPH Powerfull brushless motor.
- Two 7.4V 1200 mAh rechargeable Li-Pol batteries
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 4WD, Professional 45A brushless sensorless ESC and a 2845 brushless motor
- 2.4GHz RC, with two 7.4V, 1800mAh high-quality rechargeable Li-Pol batteries. Enough for up to 40 min of run with 2 batteries
- Ready to Run. For 14 +
- 2WD. Scaled Down Version of the 1/10th 22T. Dynamite 47T 280 Brushed Motor. Spektrum SX107 Micro Metal Gear Servo.
- Horizon 2.4Ghz Receiver WP 3-CH. Battery Dynamite 7.4V 650mAh 2S 20C EC2 Li-Pol Hardcase
- Ready to Run. For 8 +
- 4WD, RC390 motor
- 2.4GHz RC, Two 1500mAh rechageable battaries required
Best RC Cars Under 200: Comparison
From budget-friendly options to premium models, our selection caters to various needs and preferences. Each radio-controlled cars under $200 stands out for its unique features and performance.
| Device | Batteries | MPH | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC RC OFF ROAD MONSTER TRUCK | 7.4V 1000mAh | 35 mph | 4x4 Off-Road Waterproof RC Truck |
| 1:10 REDCAT RACING VOLCANO | 7.2V 2000mAh | Not Specified | 19T brushed 550 motor |
| 1:10 TRAXXAS BANDIT XL-5 RC BUGGY | Not Specified | 35 mph | Titan 12-Turn motor |
| 1:18 DEERC 300E RACING RC MONSTER TRUCK | 7.4V 1200 mAh | 35 mph | 2440 Waterproof Brushless Motor & 25A Brushless ESC |
| 1:10 DEERC 200E NEW RC MONSTER TRUCK | 11.1V 1500mAh | 35+ mph | Extra red cover, 8 timing options |
| 1:18 LOSI RC MINI-T 2.0 2WD STADIUM TRUCK | 7.4V 650mAh | Not Specified | Dynamite 47T 280 Brushed Motor |
| 1:10 BEZGAR HM101 HOBBY GRADE RC CAR | 7.4V 1500mAh | 30 mph | 550 Brushed Motor/ 17600 rpm, Playing Time 2 x 20 mins |
1:16 LAEGENDARY SONIC OFF ROAD MONSTER TRUCK RC Car Under $200 Review
Editor's Choice
When you buy LAEGENDARY Remote Control Waterproof Car 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 Laegendary 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
Summary: As indicated by my tests the LAEGENDARY Remote Control Waterproof Car 4×4 off-road RC truck, fully assembled and ready to use, stands out with its impressive speed, reaching up to 35 miles per hour. This 1:16 scale 4WD RC monster truck boasts exceptional operation, grip, and durability across various terrains, thanks to its oil-filled metal shocks and robust wheels, and features an easy-to-use pistol-like 2.4GHz radio remote controller with two speed modes, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experts, and a perfect gift under $200.
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1:10 REDCAT RACING VOLCANO RC Car Under $200 Review
Best Overall
This 4-wheel drive REDCAT Racing Volcano 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
Summary: My findings show that the Redcat Racing Volcano, a 4-wheel drive monster truck, is notable for its massive tires and lightweight plastic chassis, enhanced with eight aluminum oil-filled shocks and a suite of tunable features like suspension and gear differentials. This sub-$200 RC car excels in high-speed performance due to its low center of gravity, ball bearings throughout, and a 19T brushed 550 motor with a heat sink, and comes ready-to-use with a waterproof ESC, servo, 2.4GHz radio system, a 7.2V, 2000mAh battery, and a NiMH charger, requiring four AA batteries for the transmitter.
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1:10 TRAXXAS BANDIT XL-5 BUGGY RC Car Under 200 Review
Premium Choice
Special chassis and suspension make it possible for an RC buggy to overcome small obstacles, jump high and perform spectacular tricks. All-wheel drive allows you not to lose control, easily turning even at high speeds.
A combination of fast speed and innovative technology is every RC car enthusiast’s adrenaline shooter. The Traxxas Bandit vehicle offers that and much more. The speedy machine elevates the essence of fun with its durable body construction at an affordable price. This car’s chassis is lightweight, oozes elegance to offer drivers outstanding control while blazing the ultimate 35+mph speed. The sturdy 12-turn motor and waterproof electronics allow rip-roaring adventures through the snow, mud, and even water.
Pros:
- It comes with a high-capacity 8.4V NiMH power cell battery
- Sturdy construction for hobby-grade durability
- It is furnished with patented Traxxas’ High-Current Connector
Cons:
- Cross-check the parts to ensure they’re appropriately set before spinning
Summary: My research indicates that the Traxxas Bandit vehicle captivates RC car enthusiasts with its blend of rapid speed and cutting-edge technology, delivering exhilarating experiences with its durable build at an affordable price. Featuring a lightweight, elegant chassis that enables exceptional control at blazing speeds of over 35 mph, its robust 12-turn motor and waterproof electronics make it versatile for adventures through snow, mud, and water.
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DEERC Brushless 300E RC Cars MONSTER TRUCK Under $200 Review
Best Budget
The DEERC Brushless RC Cars 300E is a high-octane, 4x4 off-road and on-road monster truck, delivering exhilarating performance with a top speed of 60KM/H (35+ MPH). Its robust design is powered by a 90-95m/s brushless motor, offering not only impressive speed but also enhanced longevity and efficiency compared to brushed motors. The truck's four-wheel drive and independent suspensions provide remarkable power and protection against collisions, ensuring stability even from high drops.
Key to this model's outstanding performance is its 2440 waterproof brushless motor and 25A brushless ESC, which provide numerous tuning options, including 8 acceleration and timing settings, coupled with multiple protection features. This advanced setup significantly extends the vehicle's lifespan and reduces power consumption, making the DEERC 300E a durable choice for RC racing enthusiasts.
Battery life is another strong suit, with two high-capacity 1200mAh Li-Po batteries included, each offering up to 20 minutes of run time. This equates to a total of 40 minutes of exhilarating racing, further enhanced by an additional red shell for customization. The 2.4GHz pistol grip transmitter ensures precise, proportional control over throttle and steering, allowing for smooth racing and turning. The system supports up to 12 vehicles simultaneously and boasts an impressive control range of up to 328 feet.
Pros:
- High-Speed Performance up to 60KM/H (35+ MPH)
- Durable Brushless Motor
- Advanced Control System
- Two high-capacity 1200mAh Li-Po batteries, providing up to 40 minutes of total run time
- Robust Build and Suspension
- Customization Options
- Waterproof and Multiple Protections
Cons:
- The high speed might require some practice to master, especially for new RC car drivers.
Size and Portability
Summary: The DEERC Brushless RC Cars 300E is a powerhouse in the RC world, perfect for both seasoned racers and newcomers. Its blend of high speed, robust build, long battery life, and advanced control system makes it a top-tier choice for anyone seeking thrilling, high-performance RC action.
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1:10 DEERC 200E RC MONSTER TRUCK Under $200 Review
Offroad Monster Truck
Deerc 200E is the newest monster truck of the brand! 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 45A brushless sensorless ESC and a 2845 brushless motor. The powerful brushless electric motor makes this car last for a long. The life of those 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 1800mAH 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
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Summary: The Deerc 200E, a high-speed all-terrain off-road monster truck, is an ideal gift with its robust design, capable of reaching speeds up to 60kph powered by a 90-95m/s motor, and featuring a 4-wheel drive with independent suspensions for enhanced collision protection and performance on varied terrains. This model boasts a 45A brushless sensorless ESC, a long-lasting 2845 brushless motor, multiple timing and acceleration options, two 1800mAh batteries, an extra shell, and a 2.4GHz control system with 10 speed modes, making it suitable for any RC enthusiast.
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1:18 LOSI RC MINI-T 2.0 2WD STADIUM TRUCK Under 200 Review
Best Mini RC Stadium Truck
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.
Pros:
- The Mini-T 2.0 comes with a USB charger making charging your battery easy and convenient
- Front and rear "Mini" BK Bar tires replicate one of the most popular tires from Team Losi
- Aluminium Chassis
Cons:
- Can be supplied with not enough oil in the shocks
Summary: The Losi Mini-T 2.0 1:18-scale RC Truck, crafted with the expertise of Team Losi Racing and modern technology, is a compact yet powerful vehicle, based on the original Mini-T but enhanced with sophisticated features. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with a brushless 2-in-1 motor-and-ESC configuration akin to its larger 1:10 scale counterpart, and boasts a TLR 22 platform-based suspension and a Dynamite 7.4V 2S 800mAh 50C Li-Po battery for impressive high-speed performance, all ready-to-run without the need for additional purchases.
1:10 BEZGAR HM101 HOBBY GRADE RC CAR Under $200 Review
Best for Teens
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
Summary: Equipped with an RC390 Brushed motor that achieves 21,000 RPM and offers high horsepower, this hobbyist-grade RC car boasts a top speed of up to 30 mph, making it a formidable contender in drag racing. It features an IPX5 waterproof standard and a protective ESC with over-current protection and low-voltage cutoff, metal oil-filled shocks for improved handling on diverse terrains, and a durable chassis made of nylon with high resistance to chemicals and collision.
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FAQ about Best RC Car Under $200
In this section, we address common queries about high rc car under $200, helping you make an informed choice.
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.
Traxxas Bandit
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.
Best RC Cars Under $200: Conclusion
In conclusion, the best RC cars under $200 offer a remarkable blend of speed, durability, and advanced features, catering to both hobbyists and casual enthusiasts. Models like the 1:16 LAEGENDARY Sonic RC Off Road Monster Truck, 1:10 Redcat Racing Volcano or 1:10 DEERC 300E RC Monster Truck stand out with their powerful batteries, extended run times, and customizable settings, delivering high performance and versatility.
These cars prove that you don't have to break the bank to enjoy high-speed thrills and off-road adventures. With options suitable for various skill levels and preferences, from high-speed racers to all-terrain vehicles, this price range presents an excellent opportunity for both beginners and experienced users to indulge in the exciting world of RC cars without compromising on quality and features.
Our geeky guru has been slicing through tech on gagadget.com since 2020, from projectors, tvs to speakers and many more, unearthing the truth behind the specs with sharp, insightful reviews.
