Remote control (RC) cars are a classic toy that never seem to go out of style. There’s just something so fun about controlling a tiny vehicle and zooming it around whatever space you have. If you’re looking to get into RC cars but don’t want to spend a lot, there are plenty of great options available for under $100. In this blog post, I’ll recommend the best RC cars under $100 available on the market and provide tips on what to look for when shopping on a budget.
List of the Best RC Cars Under $100
Check out the thorough review of the best RC cars under $100 below.
1. HAIBOXING 1/18 Scale All Terrain RC Car
The HAIBOXING 1/18 Scale All Terrain RC Car is an exciting and fast remote control vehicle that offers thrilling speed and off-road performance. Powered by a 380 brushed motor, this 4WD truck can reach speeds up to 36 km/h for high-intensity driving. Its rugged, waterproof design features a flexible PVC body, rigid gear differential, independent suspension, and aggressive knobby tires for tackling dirt, grass, sand, and more. With a 2.4GHz radio system, users can control the truck up to 280 feet away. What sets this RC car apart is its incredible value – it comes 99% ready-to-run with two 7.4V LiPo batteries and a USB charger included.
Pros And Cons
2. DEERC 9500E 1/16 Scale All Terrain RC Car
The DEERC 9500E 1:16 Scale RC Truck is a high-speed remote control vehicle built for off-road excitement. With dual motors providing a thrilling 40+ km/h top speed, this 4WD monster truck tears over dirt, grass, and rough terrain. Its durable nylon chassis, 1.8kg steering servo, and proportional controls allow it to traverse difficult obstacles and 50-degree inclines. The truck’s reinforced PVC body is customized with cool graffiti graphics for standout looks. What makes this RC car user-friendly is its 2.4GHz control system for interference-free operation, and the included 7.4V 1500mAh batteries that deliver long runtimes.
Pros And Cons
3. The perseids 1/16 RC Crawler
The Perseids RC Crawler Offroad Truck is a highly realistic 1/16 scale remote control vehicle designed for off-road adventures. Its detailed body features a spare tire, LED lights, and a metal chassis strong enough to handle rugged terrain. Powered by a built-in motor, this 4WD truck can climb over rocks, mud, deserts, and steep hillsides thanks to its grippy tires and flexible suspension system with four springs. A 2.4GHz transmitter provides a stable connection for controlling the truck from a distance without interference. What makes this RC crawler stand out is its high simulation design that looks and performs like a real military-style semi truck. It’s an ideal gift for kids and adults who want to develop motor skills while experiencing realistic off-road truck action.
Pros And Cons
4. YIKESHU 1/16 RC Crawler
The YIKESHU RC Crawler Offroad Truck is a rugged 1/16 scale remote control vehicle that can conquer various types of terrain. Its 4WD drivetrain and adjustable suspension with four springs provides the traction and articulation needed to traverse rocks, mud, sand, and steep inclines. A realistic pickup truck body with spare tire provides durability and scale details. A handy 2.4GHz transmitter gives you proportional throttle and steering control from a good distance away without interference. LED lights allow driving at night for extra fun. While not the fastest model, this RC crawler focuses on off-road realism and capability thanks to its optimized weight distribution and excellent approach/departure angles.
Pros And Cons
5. RIAARIO 1/18 All Terrain RC Car
The RIAARIO 1:18 All Terrain RC Car delivers thrilling high-speed action thanks to its powerful 380 motor that reaches top speeds up to 36 km/h. This 4WD short course truck tackles various terrains with performance-focused upgrades like a 3-wire torque-reducing servo, 7 LED lights, aggressive bumpers, enclosed diff gearboxes, and adjustable shocks. An anti-interference 2.4GHz radio system enables proportional control up to 120 meters away. What sets this hobby-grade RC car apart is its extended runtime. It includes two 1300mAh 7.4V batteries for up to 40 minutes of drive time per charge. Other user-friendly features include 4 oversized rubber tires, a wheelie bar, and an IPX4 water-resistant ESC with overheat protection.
Pros And Cons
6. DEERC Brushless RC Car 300E
The DEERC 300E Brushless RC Car delivers blazing fast speed thanks to its powerful 2440 motor that can reach up to 60 km/h. This 1:18 scale 4WD truck tackles all kinds of terrain with its independent suspension, anti-skid tires, oil-filled shocks, and durable nylon chassis. A waterproof 25A ESC offers multiple protection features and adjustable acceleration/timing profiles. Control is smooth and precise with the 2.4GHz pistol grip transmitter that allows driving multiple trucks simultaneously. Two 1200mAh 7.4V LiPo batteries provide up to 20 minutes of runtime each for extended bashing. The RC car also includes an extra red shell for customized looks.
Pros And Cons
7. Hosim 1/16 RC Monster Truck
The Hosim 2845 Brushless RC Car delivers insanely fast speed up to 60+ km/h thanks to its powerful 2845 brushless motor and 4WD drivetrain. This 1/16 scale truck is designed for hardcore bashing with waterproof electronics, a steel chassis, independent suspension, and wheelie bar for stunts. The 2.4GHz radio system provides long 262ft range and responsive control. Dual 1000mAh 7.4V batteries give you up to 40 minutes of runtime for extended off-road adventures. What sets this RC monster truck apart is its two speed modes – full 60km/h speed or a 30km/h training mode perfect for new drivers. It also includes an extra body shell for custom looks.
Pros And Cons
8. BEZGAR 1/16 Scale High Speed RC Cars
The BEZGAR 1:16 Scale RC Truck delivers versatile off-road performance with its upgraded drivetrain featuring metal components like adjustable tie rods, drive shafts, and gears for enhanced durability. A splash-proof ESC provides all-weather electronics protection during intense driving. The 2.4GHz radio system enables interference-free control up to 250 feet away, with dual speed options for beginners and experts. High capacity, fire-retardant battery modules extend runtimes over 30 minutes for long bashing sessions. This hobby-grade truck comes RTR out of the box, ready for backyard adventures.
Pros And Cons
9. MEW4 1/16 RTR RC Truck
The MEW4 1/16 Scale 4X4 RC Truck delivers versatile off-road performance in a ready-to-run package perfect for beginners. Its brushed 390 motor provides speeds up to 38 km/h for thrilling backyard bashing. Oil-filled shocks, 4WD drivetrain, and 4cm ground clearance help navigate dirt, grass, and uneven terrain. Metal differentials, CVDs, bearings, and composite chassis provide durability while smooth power distribution maximizes traction. A 2.4GHz radio enables control from long range. What sets this truck apart is its 1500mAh battery for extended 45 minute runtimes, allowing longer driving sessions between charges. It also uses common third party parts for easy maintenance and upgrades.
Pros And Cons
10. Hot Wheels 1/10 Tesla Cybertruck RC Truck
The Hot Wheels 1:10 RC Cybertruck perfectly replicates Tesla’s iconic angular design in a fast RC model reaching 12 mph. It includes a free-rolling 1:10 scale Cyberquad ATV that fits in the truck’s open cargo bed bringing an extra dimension of fun. A customized remote modeled after the real Cybertruck steering wheel offers realistic control. Working headlights and taillights add to the premium details. This officially licensed collectible pairs innovative RC performance with stunning accuracy to the real electric truck that will impress Hot Wheels fans.
Pros And Cons
11. BEZGAR 1/14 Lambo Sián FKP 37 RC Car
The BEZGAR 1:14 Scale RC Lambo Sián FKP 37 is an officially licensed, fully functional replica of the iconic Italian supercar. Featuring Lambo’s trademark wedge shape and scissor doors, this RC car precisely mimics the Sián’s smooth aesthetics in a durable ABS plastic body. Under the hood, it packs realistic engine sounds and zippy performance reaching 4 mph, controlled by the included 2.4GHz dual grip remote with 80ft range. Soft flexible wheels with tread patterns and independent suspension deliver stability across smooth surfaces. With easy controls and low maximum speeds, this collectible RC Lambo makes a great gift for kids ages 8 and up.
Pros And Cons
12. MIEBELY 1/16 Scale All Terrain RC Car
The MIEBELY 1:16 Scale RC Car delivers versatile high-speed performance and durability for off-road adventures. A powerful brushed motor enables speeds up to 40+ km/h for thrilling rides across dirt, grass, and rough terrain thanks to its durable components like ball bearings, rubber tires, 4WD independent suspension, and IPX4 water resistance. A 2.4GHz radio system allows racing multiple cars up to 80 meters away. What sets this RC truck apart is its complete ready-to-run package including two 1000mAh batteries for up to 40 minutes of drive time and two body shells in green and pink for customized looks.
Pros And Cons
How to Choose the Best RC Car Under $100?
Remote control (RC) cars provide hours of fun for kids and adults alike. If you’re looking to buy an RC car on a budget, there are many great options available for under $100. With the right knowledge, you can find an awesome, high-performing RC car that fits your needs without breaking the bank.
1. Consider Where You’ll Use It
First, think about where you plan to drive your RC car the most. Will it be solely for indoor use or outdoors as well? This affects the type of tires, shocks, and chassis you’ll want. Indoor cars can have slick tires and softer suspensions for hardwood or tiles. Outdoor RC cars need grippy, all-terrain tires and sturdier shocks for handling different surfaces.
2. Prioritize Speed or Stunts
Determine if speed or stunt capabilities are more important. Some budget RC cars can reach up to 25 mph for thrilling speed, while others focus more on flipping, spinning, and drifting tricks. You can certainly find RCs under $100 that do both, but you may need to decide what the top priority is. This also depends on the age of the user.
3. Runtime is Key
For RC cars under $100, average battery runtimes are 10-20 minutes. Look for models on the higher end of that range for extended fun. Quick recharge time (30-60 minutes) is also ideal so you spend more time driving and less time waiting for a charge. Replaceable batteries are a plus too.
4. Control Range Matters
The control range is how far you can operate the RC car from the controller. For outdoor use especially, look for models with 100+ foot ranges. Shorter 25-50 foot ranges work fine indoors where you’ll be closer to the car. Higher frequencies (2.4GHz +) offer the most stable signal.
5. Inspect the Materials
Examine what a prospective RC car is made of. Rugged plastic bodies can withstand impacts. An aluminum chassis and oil-filled shocks provide stability on uneven surfaces. Make sure any essential electronics are waterproofed if running outdoors. Cheaper models may use flimsier materials that break easier.
6. Added Features for More Fun
Bonus features like LED headlights or stunt capabilities can make RC cars more exciting. Just balance extra functions with your main needs, as added tech can drive up prices. For younger kids, look for safe rounded edges and softened tires that limit top speeds. Replaceable parts are also good for inevitable crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions When Picking the Best RC Cars Under $100
1. What is the average speed of an RC car under $100?
Most RC cars in this price range can reach speeds of 10-15 mph. Higher end models may go up to 25 mph, while less expensive ones max out at 8-10 mph. Make sure to check the top speed for any car you’re considering.
2. How long does the battery last?
Run times vary, but average battery life is 10-20 minutes of continuous driving per charge for sub-$100 RC cars. It’s possible to find models that run for up to 30 minutes. Quick recharge times (30-60 mins) help maximize playtime.
3. What is the range of the remote control?
Standard control ranges for lower cost RC cars are 25-100 feet. Shorter ranges around 30 feet are common for indoor-only basic models. Advanced control ranges can reach up to 150+ feet for outdoor use. Look for cars with a 2.4GHz frequency for longest range.
4. Can it be used indoors and outdoors?
Most RC cars under $100 are designed for indoor or outdoor use. All-terrain tires provide better grip on uneven outdoor surfaces. Waterproofed electronics allow driving through mud, rain, and snow. Ensure the range is sufficient for outdoor driving.
5. How durable are RC cars in this price range?
While not as durable as high-end hobby-grade models, there are reasonably sturdy options. Look for metal parts like aluminum shocks and steel drive shafts. Reinforced plastic bodies hold up better to crashes too. Replaceable parts extend lifespan.
6. Do RC cars require maintenance?
Basic maintenance like charging batteries properly, cleaning dirt/debris from chassis, and inspecting for worn parts extends the life of RC cars. Replacing batteries and worn tires/wheels periodically is recommended. Advanced repairs are not typically needed.
7. What extra features are available in this price range?
LED headlights, rubber treaded tires, stunt features, and 2.4GHz controllers are commonly found in sub-$100 RCs. Less common are features like cameras and advanced proportional controls. Focus on primary handling/speed rather than lots of extra features.
Final Thoughts
RC cars offer big fun in a small package. For anyone looking to get started in the hobby without spending a lot, there are many excellent remote control cars available for under $100. They provide great performance right out of the box. While you may eventually want to move up to more advanced RC vehicles, an entry-level model under $100 makes for an ideal starting point.
Enjoyed this review of the best RC cars under $100? Then be sure to check out our other RC Rating guides.