Are you new to the world of radio controlled (RC) cars? If so, you may be wondering what a “1/10 RC car” is and how it differs from other sizes. Well, you’ve come to the right place! As an RC enthusiast myself, I’m excited to help break down the basics so you can decide if a 1/10 size is right for you.
What is a 1/10 RC Car?
Let’s start with the numbers – the “1/10” refers to the scale size of the car. RC cars come in all different scales, but 1/10 is one of the most popular for recreational use. It means that the car is 1/10th the size of a real, full-size car. For example, if a real car is 15 feet long, a 1/10 scale model would be 18 inches long. This makes 1/10 RC cars large enough to handle outdoor terrain, while still being a manageable size.
List of the Best 1/10 RC Cars
Check out the thorough review of the best 1/10 RC cars below.
1. Traxxas TRX-4 Ford Bronco 1/10 Trail and Scale Crawler
The Traxxas TRX-4 Ford Bronco brings rugged off-road performance and scale realism to RC crawling. Powered by a Titan 550 21-turn motor and XL-5 HV ESC, this electric 4×4 can tackle steep hills and technical terrain thanks to its innovative portal axles with huge ground clearance. Remotely locking differentials and a 2-speed transmission with high and low ranges optimize traction over obstacles. Waterproof electronics allow driving through rain, mud and snow with no worries.
An officially licensed 1979 Ford Bronco body with chrome detail parts faithfully replicates the full-size truck’s iconic style. The highly detailed exterior captures everything from the grill and side mirrors to the bumpers and iconic two-tone paint. Combined with the TRX-4’s proven crawler chassis, the result is a rig that looks and performs like a realistic truck scaled down to 1/10 size.
Pros And Cons
2. ARRMA 1/10 Big Rock Monster RC Truck
Designed for extreme bashing and terrain mastery, the 1/10 scale ARRMA Big Rock Crew Cab 4X4 3S BLX monster truck combines 50+ mph speed with competition-level durability. Powered by a 3200Kv brushless motor and BLX100 ESC, the Big Rock rips across dirt, mud and grass with brute acceleration. Major updates for improved handling include a wider stance, beefier steering components, and sealed bearings throughout the drivetrain.
The modular chassis facilitates maintenance with quick access to the power module, electronics, and differentials. Extended suspension arms, oil-filled shocks, and vented all-terrain tires soak up big jumps and hard landings. A licensed Chevy Crew Cab body with chrome accents plus wheelie bar and dirt deflectors round out the realistic monster truck styling.
Pros And Cons
3. Redcat 1/10 Scale Racing Monte Carlo RC Car
Bringing realistic lowrider style to RC, the licensed Redcat Racing 1979 Chevy Monte Carlo features fully articulating chrome wire wheels to perform tricks while driving. Each wheel raises and lowers independently via metal geared servos, controlled by switches on the included 6-channel transmitter. The highly detailed body captures the iconic Monte Carlo lines with chrome trim, while the interior has a molded dash, steering wheel, and floor pan.
Power comes from a brushed motor and ESC combo tuned for speedy cruising. The rear solid axle and front independent suspension provide a smooth, stable ride. LED lights, sold separately, install easily to the LED-ready body. With its officially licensed 1979 Chevy Monte Carlo body sitting on a lowrider-inspired chassis, this RTR drift machine makes RC driving as stylish as the full-size lowrider scene.
Pros And Cons
4. Losi RC Car 1/10 1969 Chevy Camaro V100
Bringing classic American muscle to RC, the officially licensed Losi 1969 Chevy Camaro V100 captures the iconic looks of the first-gen Camaro in a ready-to-run brushed 4WD package. The highly detailed body features molded exterior lights, grill, mirrors and rear spoiler for realistic scale appearance. Underneath lies a performance-proven shaft-driven AWD chassis tuned for excellent asphalt grip and controlled drifting.
A locked rear diff enhances on-power steering while waterproof electronics ensure all-weather basher durability. The included 15-turn motor provides brisk acceleration to show off the Camaro style, while V1 street tires add traction and realism. An integrated 45A ESC/receiver rounds out the reliable electronics. With an officially licensed ’69 Camaro shell covering its race-bred AWD chassis, this RTR model brings aspiring collectors and weekend racers an ideal mix of show-worthy looks and all-surface performance.
Pros And Cons
5. ARRIS WPL D12 1/10 RWD RC Car
Blending scale realism with rugged off-road ability, the ARRIS WPL D12 brings accessible hobby-grade RC to a 1/10 scale crawler package. Its uniquely designed front suspension provides maximum articulation to traverse rocks, dirt mounds and other tricky terrain. Durable plastic construction stands up to crashes while interior details like a steering wheel and seats up the scale authenticity.
Power comes from a brushed 260-size motor that provides adequate low-speed torque to ascend inclines and obstacles. The grippy all-terrain tires use a deep tread pattern to find traction on loose surfaces. A 2.4GHz radio system gives long range control.
Pros And Cons
6. DEERC 9206E 1/10 Scale RC Car
The DEERC 9206E brings hobby-grade brushed power and all-terrain performance to a customizable 1/10 scale RC package. Its waterproof electronics and 4WD drivetrain powered by a 380-size motor can tackle dirt, grass and other off-road terrain at over 30 mph. Oil-filled shocks soak up jumps and rough ground while high-grip tires provide traction across surfaces. A 2.4GHz pistol-grip transmitter offers proportional control.
The DIY-friendly clear body lets you decorate and personalize the look, or switch to the included painted shell. Dual 7.4V battery packs extend runtime to 40+ minutes for long bashing sessions. LED headlights enable driving after dark.
Pros And Cons
7. AMORIL 1/10 Fast Brushless RC Car
Built for blazing pavement speed, the Amoril 1:10 scale brushless RC car can reach up to 70+ mph out of the box, with potential for over 100 mph with gearing upgrades. Power comes from a 3650 4300KV brushless motor and 60A ESC that deliver massive acceleration and torque. The durable aluminum chassis, oil-filled shocks, and independent suspension handle the forces of high-speed cornering and jumps. A CNC steel pinion transfers power to the drivetrain while composite spur gears take the brutal force of the brushless power system.
LED front and rear lights come pre-installed for visibility and scale looks. The included 2.4GHz pistol-grip transmitter provides hobby-grade precision and range to control the vehicle at top speed. Backed by a foam bumper, aluminum parts, and race-inspired components, this ready-to-run Amoril model has the durability and control for pushing 1/10 RC cars to extreme speeds on pavement.
Pros And Cons
8. Hosim 1/10 Brushless RC Cars
Equipped for high-speed bashing and racing, the 1/10 scale Hosim brushless RC car reaches 40+ mph out of the box thanks to its 2847 motor and 45A ESC. Waterproof electronics allow running in wet conditions while the flexible chassis and oil-filled shocks withstand harsh terrain. A metal differential and 3Kg servo improve durability over stock setups. Two 7.4V 2600mAh LiPo batteries double runtime to 40 minutes between charges. The two included body shells let you customize the look for racing friends.
A pistol-grip 2.4GHz transmitter provides responsive control at distances up to 262 feet. With hobby-grade durability and components tuned for power, this ready-to-run Hosim model brings versatile high-speed performance to backyards and tracks. Its waterproof electronics and rugged parts make it an ideal choice for bashing through mud and dirt.
Pros And Cons
9. BEZGAR HB101 1/10 Scale RC Truck
Geared for novice RC enthusiasts, the Bezgar HB101 1/10 scale RC truck delivers stable all-terrain performance and bash-ready durability. Its waterproof electronics and 4WD drivetrain powered by a 540-size brushed motor can tackle pavements, dirt trails, grass, and shallow water up to 30+ mph. The 2.2kg servo provides proportional steering for maneuvering obstacles. Soft suspension and grippy block tires absorb impacts for controlled handling across rough terrain.
A 2500mAh 7.4V NiMH battery supplies over 25 minutes of runtime for extended bashing. The 2.4GHz pistol-grip transmitter gives long range control without interference. With hobby-grade reliability and simple controls, the HB101 makes RC racing accessible for beginners and kids. Its rugged chassis and waterproof components stand up to abuse while the 4WD traction instills confidence for navigating backyards or parks.
Pros And Cons
How to Choose the Best 1/10 RC Cars?
1. Gas, Electric or Nitro?
The first big decision is whether you want a battery powered electric RC, gas powered, or nitro powered model. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Electric – Most popular for beginners. Batteries allow quick, silent running with easy maintenance. Downside is run time per charge.
- Gas – Provides long run time and high speeds. But gas engines are loud and require more maintenance. Better for large areas.
- Nitro – Similar to gas but need to mix fuel. Produce more noise and fumes. Perfect for RC racing and modifications.
For your first 1/10 car, I’d recommend going electric for the convenience and lower operating costs. As you get experienced, you may want to dabble in gas or nitro.
2. Kit vs Ready-to-Run (RTR)
Next decide if you want a ready-to-run (RTR) car or a build-it-yourself (KIT) kit.
RTRs allow you to simply open the box and start driving. Better for beginners who want to get driving ASAP. Downside is less customization.
Kits let you build the car yourself for a more hands-on experience. Allows full customization. But requires assembly and mechanical skills.
For your first car, I suggest starting with an RTR to get used to driving and handling maintenance. No need to complicate things with a complex build.
3. Set Your Budget
1/10 RC cars range greatly in price. Consider how much you’re willing to spend upfront and on upgrades down the road.
$100 to $200 – Good starter budget. Gets a solid RTR model from a hobby brand.
$200 to $500 – Enthusiast-grade. RTR or kit with high-end features and performance.
$500+ – Professional competition-level. Top nitro engines and components.
Frequently Asked Questions When Picking the Best 1/10 RC Cars
1. What does the “1/10” mean?
The 1/10 refers to the scale size of the RC car. It means the car is 1/10th the size of the actual full-size car it’s modeled after. So a 1/10 scale RC car that’s based on a car that’s 15 feet long in real life will be about 18 inches long.
2. What are the main components of a 1/10 RC car?
- Chassis – The frame all the parts mount to. Usually made of aluminum or composite plastic.
- Body – The styled plastic shell that gives the car its look. Held on with body clips.
- Shock absorbers – Suspension parts that dampen bumps. 1/10 cars have oil-filled shocks.
- Drivetrain – Includes drive shafts, differentials, gears that transfer power to the wheels.
- ESC (Electronic Speed Control) – Controls and regulates power from the battery to the motor.
- Motor – Electric motor that spins the drivetrain to move the car. Brushed or brushless types.
- Radio system – Receiver gets signals from the handheld transmitter to control steering and throttle.
3. What are the most popular power options for 1/10 RC cars?
- Electric – Powered by rechargeable battery packs. Most convenient and popular option.
- Nitro – Powered by combustion engine that runs on nitro fuel. Higher speeds but more maintenance.
- Gasoline – Also combustion engines but run on gasoline. Good balance of power and convenience.
4. How fast can 1/10 RC cars go?
- Stock (out of the box) electric models typically reach 25-45 mph. Nitro/gas can be a bit faster at 30-50 mph.
- With performance tuning and upgrades, 1/10 RC cars can exceed 60+ mph rather easily.
- For all out speed, modifying the gearing and using high-voltage battery packs can push speeds over 80 mph.
5. What are the main differences between toy-grade and hobby-grade models?
- Toy-grade focus on low cost and simplicity. Parts break easily and have limited upgrade options.
- Hobby-grade use higher-quality components that are durable and customizable. Better for racing and modifications.
- Hobby-grade cost more upfront but last longer. Recommended for enthusiasts.
6. What accessories will I need to operate a 1/10 RC car?
- For electrics: Extra rechargeable battery packs and a charger.
- For nitro/gas: Fuel bottles, starter box, and fuel.
- For all: Hex drivers, shock oil, general toolkit for repairs and adjustments.
- Spare parts like tires, wheels, gears to replace broken pieces.
7. Where are good places to run a 1/10 RC car?
- Any open area like a parking lot, sports field, or grassy park area.
- RC race tracks specifically designed for different RC vehicles.
- Open dirt paths, trails or vacant lots (watch for debris).
- Your own backyard, if you have enough open space.
Final Thoughts
No matter which 1/10 car you ultimately go with, be sure to invest in extra batteries and spare parts so you can spend more time driving and less time stalled out. Properly maintained, a quality 1/10 RC can provide years of off-road fun. Now grab your transmitter and head out to the park or track to experience these powerful machines in action. Just be prepared for some envious looks as you put your new ride through its paces!
Enjoyed this review of the best 1/10 RC cars? Then be sure to check out our other RC Rating guides.