If you love monster trucks and the thrill of radio controlled vehicles, then RC monster trucks are perfect for you! These powerful, rugged, oversized RC trucks provide big fun in a small package. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting started with RC monster trucks, from choosing the best RC monster trucks to taking care of it to having a blast driving it.
What are RC Monster Trucks?
RC monster trucks are model vehicles that are styled after real monster trucks. They feature large tires, suspension systems to handle jumps and rough terrain, and bodies modeled after popular full-size monster trucks. What sets RC monster trucks apart from standard RC vehicles is their size, power, and ability to run over and through obstacles.
List of the Best RC Monster Trucks
Check out the thorough review of the best RC monster trucks below.
1. ARRMA Granite Monster RC Truck
The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX Monster Truck delivers high-speed 50+ mph brushless power and extreme durability for thrilling off-road action. Engineered with upgraded features like a strengthened chassis, hinge pin plates, more clearance for the stones, castellated slipper pad, sliding gear mesh, and rubber shielded bearings, this 1/10 scale RTR truck is designed for unstoppable all-terrain performance. The included 3200Kv brushless motor provides jaw-dropping acceleration while the rugged composite and aluminum construction ensures this monster truck can handle hardcore bashing.
The ARRMA BLX100 ESC offers 100A continuous current capacity for wheel-spinning torque. With its tough dBoots tires mounted on 2.8” wheels, adjustable ride height and body mounts, high-torque metal gear steering servo, and 2.4Ghz radio system, the ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX is ready for off-road excitement right out of the box.
Pros And Cons
2. Losi King Sling RC Monster Truck
Experience insane mega truck power with the Losi RC Crawler LMT, featuring officially licensed King Sling and Bog Hog bodies modeled after the full-size monsters. With scale solid axle housing and a 1/8 metal drivetrain, this 4WD RTR can withstand constant hardcore bashing. The Spektrum 2800Kv brushless motor provides incredible torque to churn through deep mud while the 130A Smart ESC optimizes power delivery for wheel-spinning acceleration.
Giant 6.25” licensed wheels wrapped in tractor tread tires grab terrain, and long travel coil-over shocks smooth out jumps and harsh landings. The flip-top cage allows easy access to change batteries or service electronics. Smart telemetry through the Spektrum DX3 transmitter lets you monitor vehicle stats in real-time. With its licensedreplica look plus overbuilt durability and 4S-capable power, the Losi Mega Truck delivers authentic mega truck thrills in a 1/10 scale platform.
Pros And Cons
3. Traxxas Stampede RC Monster Truck
Experience high-speed off-road thrills with the Traxxas Stampede, a ready-to-race 1/10 scale monster truck engineered for all-weather durability. Waterproof electronics allow driving through mud, snow, and puddles while the Titan 12-turn 550 motor provides massive torque to reach over 30mph top speeds. The XL-5 electronic speed control delivers smooth throttle response for wheel-lifting power slides. Equipped with the Magnum 272 transmission featuring hardened steel gears, this beast can withstand hardcore bashing.
Traxxas quality is evident in the pre-painted ProGraphix body and high-grip tires wrapped around black chrome wheels. The included 7-cell NiMH battery and 4-amp fast charger have Traxxas iD for optimal performance and run time. Just switch on the 2.4GHz TQi radio system and hit the throttle to experience the Stampede’s legendary power firsthand. With a rugged suspension, all-wheel drive traction, and ground-clearance to drive over obstacles, this monster truck is ready to conquer backyards and trails right out of the box.
Pros And Cons
4. Redcat Racing Kaiju RC Monster Truck
Experience extreme power with the Redcat Racing Kaiju, a 1/8 scale brushless monster truck engineered to handle 6S LiPo muscle. Equipped with a 2100kv motor and 150A ESC, this RTR beast delivers massive roost-throwing torque and all-terrain dominance. The durable drivetrain features steel CVA shafts, metal gears, sealed bearings and a waterproof ESC to withstand hardcore bashing. Wrapped in aggressive tires mounted on 17mm hex hubs, the Kaiju tackles any terrain with beastly traction.
Bright LEDs add realistic style along with the painted body and decals modeled after monster machines. Just strap in a 6S single or 3S dual LiPo battery and rip through dirt, mud and snow with adjustable suspension and AWD pulling power. With captured joints, a bumper, body clip lanyards and extra-tough composites, the Kaiju is designed for performance and longevity.
Pros And Cons
5. ARRMA KRATON Monster RC Truck
Tear up the terrain at 60+ mph with the ARRMA Kraton, a 1/8 scale 4WD speed monster truck upgraded for maximum 6S brushless muscle. The included 2050Kv motor powered by a 150A Smart ESC delivers roost-kicking torque to reach eye-watering top speeds using a 6S LiPo battery. This RTR bash machine features a rugged composite chassis, aluminum shocks, and a sealed drivetrain equipped to handle hardcore bashing. The Spektrum electronics provide telemetry data and customization via the Spektrum smartphone app.
Durable components like the waterproof ESC, metal-geared digital servo, and dual protocol receiver ensure all-weather performance. Just strap in a 4S or 6S LiPo battery and hold on tight as the Kraton unleashes its beastly power across dirt, snow, and mud thanks to AWD traction. With its 1/8 scale size and 60+ mph potential, this ARRMA speed truck brings massive power and adrenaline-pumping action.
Pros And Cons
6. Losi LMT RC Monster Truck
Bring home thrilling Monster Jam action with the Losi LMT, an officially licensed 1/10 scale monster truck modeled after the iconic Son-Uva Digger. This RTR bash machine features a scale replica body and details like headers, lights, and a driver modeled after the full-size monster machines. Underneath lies a performance powerhouse drivetrain with 1/8 metal diffs, CVAs, a center diff with cush drive, and long travel coil-over shocks to tame big air jumps.
The included 3150Kv brushless motor provideswheel-standing torque while the Smart 130A ESC optimizes power delivery. Just strap in a 2-3S LiPo battery, switch on the 2.4GHz DX3 transmitter and experience the LMT’s roost-kicking power firsthand. With its licensed look, AWD traction, adjustable servo saver, and flip-top cage for easy access, this monster truck delivers authentic backyard fun right out of the box.
Pros And Cons
7. Redcat Racing Blackout RC Monster Truck
Experience high-speed backyard bash sessions with the Redcat Racing Blackout XTE PRO, a 1/10 scale brushless monster truck equipped for all-terrain domination. Waterproof electronics allow driving through mud and snow while the 3800Kv motor provides massive roost-throwing torque and 30+ mph top speed. Equipped with a heat sink and forward/reverse ESC, this RTR truck rips across dirt, grass, and gravel. The adjustable oil-filled shocks and 4WD shaft driven drivetrain smooth out jumps for stable handling.
Just charge the included 7.4V 3200mAh LiPo battery and switch on the 2.4GHz radio system to unleash the Blackout’s beastly power. With independent suspension, a lightweight chassis, and soft compound tires wrapped around chrome wheels, this Redcat monster machine delivers adrenaline-pumping performance right out of the box.
Pros And Cons
8. ARRMA Big Rock Monster RC Truck
Take your RC adventures to thrilling new levels with the ARRMA Big Rock, a 1/10 scale brushless 4WD monster truck delivering 50+ mph speeds. This RTR bash machine features a rugged chassis, oil-filled shocks, adjustable suspension, a center diff with slide gear mesh, and a Spektrum 3200Kv sensorless motor for massive roost-throwing power. The included 3-channel SLT3 radio provides control while the BLX100 waterproof ESC optimizes brushless torque.
With its wider stance, stronger components, and rubber sealed bearings, the newly updated Big Rock tackles hardcore bashing and all-terrain driving. Just strap in a 2-3S LiPo battery and hold on as it rips across grass, dirt, gravel, and mud thanks to shaft-driven 4WD. The street truck inspired body looks great flying high off jumps and skimming over puddles.
Pros And Cons
9. Traxxas Bigfoot Classic RC Monster Truck
Recreate iconic BIGFOOT monster truck action with the Traxxas Bigfoot Classic, an officially licensed 1/10 scale RTR modeled after the original No.1 beast. The brilliant blue Ford Ranger body and chrome accented bumper with replica fog lights capture BIGFOOT’s classic 1986 look in stunning detail. Waterproof electronics and a sealed receiver box allow driving through wet conditions while the Titan 12T motor provides wheelie-popping torque. The XL-5 ESC delivers smooth power to the huge tires wrapped around chrome wheels reminiscent of full-size monster machines.
Just charge up the included NiMH battery and switch on the 3-channel TQ radio system to experience the Traxxas Bigfoot’s crushingly fun performance. With an extra thick polycarbonate body perched atop the suspension, this officially licensed replica is built Traxxas-tough for backyard BIGFOOT bash sessions.
Pros And Cons
10. Redcat Racing Volcano RC Monster Truck
Tame your own backyard volcano with the Redcat Racing Volcano EPX, a 1/10 scale monster truck equipped for all-terrain domination. Waterproof electronics allow driving through mud and snow while the brushed 27-turn motor provides roaring torque to climb obstacles and blast over jumps. The 2.4GHz radio system maintains control as the long travel suspension smooths out rough terrain. Just charge up the included NiMH battery and switch into forward or reverse to kick up roosts across grass, dirt and gravel.
Wrapped in an aggressive polycarbonate body perched on a durable aluminum upper plate chassis, this Redcat RTR can withstand hardcore bashing. Oversize tread tires grab traction while oil-filled shocks soak up launches off ramps and sticks the landing. With its beastly power, 4WD torque and adjustable suspension, the Volcano EPX brings RC excitement ready to erupt right out of the box.
Pros And Cons
How to Pick the Best RC Monster Trucks for Your Needs?
Ready to join the world of radio controlled monster truck fun? With so many options out there, it can be tricky to decide which RC monster truck is right for you. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider so you can choose the best truck that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned RC driver, you’ll find tips here for picking out your new favorite off-road basher.
1. Determine Your Skill Level
The first thing to think about is your current skill level with RC vehicles. Are you:
- A beginner just getting started? Look for a basic, hardy monster truck made for learning.
- Intermediate with some RC experience? Opt for a truck with more power and capabilities to challenge your skills.
- Advanced and want a competition-level truck? Choose a high-end truck ready for racing and stunts.
Matching the truck to your existing abilities ensures you pick something suitable and safe to drive as you progress.
2. Consider Where You’ll Drive
Consider what types of terrain you plan to conquer with your monster truck:
- Backyard driving and dirt bashing? An all-around truck with medium ground clearance and tires will work.
- Racing on tracks? Choose a faster truck optimized for handling jumps and corners.
- Mud running and water crossings? Look for monster trucks with waterproof electronics and paddle-style mud tires.
Think about where you’ll use your truck most so you get one tailored for that environment. The right features will help you better traverse your chosen terrain.
3. Electric vs Gas Power
Next, decide if you want a battery powered electric RC monster truck or one that runs on nitro gas:
- Electric trucks provide consistent speed and easy charging but lack realistic engine sounds.
- Nitro trucks deliver a more realistic experience but require maintenance like refueling and engine cleaning.
Electric trucks are usually best for beginners, while experienced drivers may prefer the sound and smell of a nitro engine. Consider your preferences here.
4. Set Your Budget
Finally, factor in how much you want to spend. RC monster trucks range widely in price:
- Ready-to-run models from trusted brands like Traxxas and Arrma start around $200-$500.
- Highly customizable kits are available for advanced hobbyists at $500 and above.
- Additional costs come from extra batteries, chargers, tools and spare parts.
Set a budget that fits your needs. While more expensive trucks offer greater speed and durability, affordable options still deliver plenty of smash ‘em up fun!
Frequently Asked Questions When Picking the Best RC Monster Trucks
1. What are the top RC monster truck brands?
Some of the top RC monster truck brands include Traxxas, Arrma, Redcat, and Losi. Traxxas is known for their high-performance Revo and X-Maxx trucks. Arrma builds fast and durable trucks like the Kraton and Outcast series. Redcat offer more affordable options, while Losi is popular for their racing trucks.
2. What is the best RC monster truck for beginners?
Great RC monster trucks for beginners include the Traxxas Stampede, Arrma Granite, Redcat Earthquake, and ECX Ruckus. These trucks are durable, easy to control, and can handle crashes and jumping as you learn. Beginner friendly features include waterproof electronics, wider tires, and flexibility to run on various surfaces.
3. What is the fastest RC monster truck?
Some of the fastest RC monster trucks reach speeds over 60 mph. The Traxxas X-Maxx is known for speed with its 8S power system. The Arrma Infraction and Losi LST XXL-2 are also extremely fast. For all-out speed, look for trucks with high-voltage brushless motors and 2.4Ghz radios for responsive control.
4. What features make a good RC monster truck?
Key features that make a good RC monster truck include waterproof electronics, long-travel suspension, a powerful motor, wide all-terrain tires, metal drive system parts, and a strong chassis. Good ground clearance,bash bars, and shock towers also allow monster trucks to handle jumps and rough driving.
5. Should I get an electric or nitro RC monster truck?
For most hobbyists, electric RC monster trucks provide a better experience as they are faster, easier to use and maintain. Nitro trucks can be finicky to tune and start. However, nitro does offer a more realistic sound and feel. Both are fun options to consider!
6. What maintenance is required on an RC monster truck?
Basic RC monster truck maintenance includes charging batteries, cleaning the chassis, inspecting tires, checking for loose parts, lubricating parts, replacing air filters, emptying the fuel tank, and cleaning or replacing the engine after use. Follow your truck’s manual for optimal care.
7. How can I make my RC monster truck more durable?
Upgrades like metal transmission gears, oil-filled shocks, front and rear bumpers, wider tires with foam inserts, aluminum chassis parts, and sealing electronics can all help improve the durability of your RC monster truck.
8. What accessories are useful for RC monster trucks?
Helpful accessories for RC monster trucks include extra batteries, a fast charger, specialty tools, a transmitter case, spare tires, chassis skid plates, bearings, a starter box, and a dynamite run pack. Having spares and option parts on hand helps keep your truck running.
9. Where are good places to run an RC monster truck?
Great places to run RC monster trucks include empty parking lots, dirt fields/tracks, skate parks, backyard courses, playgrounds, and off-road trails. Look for open spaces free of obstructions where you can let your truck run wild! Always be aware of surroundings and people.
Final Thoughts
From picking the best RC monster trucks to taking care of it, this guide covers everything you need to know to start enjoying RC monster trucks. These powerful machines allow you to experience the thrills of real monster truck racing in the palm of your hand. With the right truck and some practice, you’ll be pulling off huge jumps and outrageous stunts in no time!
Enjoyed this review of the best RC monster trucks? Then be sure to check out our other guides.