The 21 best fast rc car brands
Jada Toys, Nikko and Tamiya lead our ranking of 21 fast rc car brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Fast Rc Car brands, ranked
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1
Jada Toys
Die-cast specialist whose radio-controlled cars are toy-grade, with bright bodies and simple controls aimed at younger children.
Top products: Dom's Dodge Charger R/T RC Car· Brian's Toyota Supra
Website: jadatoysinc.com |Brands like Jada Toys
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Nikko
Nikko's licensed Fast and Furious builds are older toy-grade cars rather than modern hobby-grade RC.
Top products: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution RC Car
Popularity 6.0/10
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3
Tamiya
Tamiya's 1980s kit buggies like the Fast Attack Vehicle are still prized for build quality and parts supply.
Top products: Fast Attack Vehicle
Website: tamiyausa.com |Brands like Tamiya
Popularity 5.7/10
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4
Maisto
Maisto is dedicated to making accurate and beautiful models of vehicles. They are passionate about the miniature models they make of the various automobiles for their customers. People who like to collect the multiple models of different brands of cars can find their haven on the company website. Maisto is always crafting the goods with great care and attention to detail. Every model has been made after extensive research of the actual vehicle. They have excellent skills of craftsmanship.
Website: maisto.com |Brands like Maisto
Popularity 5.7/10
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5
TYCO
Tyco makes HO scale slot cars and track sets for home racing, and vintage Tyco models are now sought by collectors. Many of its sets still circulate on resale and auction sites, often with original bodies and track pieces. Buyers usually need a compatible track and controller to run the cars.
Website: tycois.com |Brands like TYCO
Popularity 5.3/10
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6
Carrera
Eyewear brand Carrera, from Italy, sells sunglasses, reading glasses and vintage sunglasses for women and men. Classic frame shapes appear in both everyday and retro styles. Sunglasses and reading glasses sit side by side in the range, so both product types can be seen in one collection.
Popularity 4.0/10
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7
WLtoys
Entry-level 2.4GHz ready-to-run cars with brushed motors, mostly small scale, for trying out the hobby.
Top products: 144011 1/14 Fast RC Car
Website: wltoys.eu |Brands like WLtoys
Popularity 3.9/10
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8
Kyosho
Japanese hobby-grade RC cars and kits, tuned for racers rather than casual play.
Website: rc.kyosho.com |Brands like Kyosho
Popularity 3.5/10
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9
HOSIM
Brushless 1/14 cars claiming 50 mph, with all-terrain tyres and tough chassis for adult hobbyists.
Website: hosim.com |Brands like HOSIM
Popularity 3.2/10
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10
MJX
Chinese drone maker that also sells brushless RC cars and trucks in several sizes.
Website: mjxrc.net |Brands like MJX
Popularity 2.7/10
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11
ARRMA
Hobby-grade brushless monster trucks and buggies with heavy-duty chassis, sold through Horizon Hobby.
Website: arrma-rc.com |Brands like ARRMA
Popularity 2.6/10
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12
HPI
Own-brand radios and hobby-grade buggies, trucks and drift cars, from beginner kits to racing models.
Website: hpiracing.com |Brands like HPI
Popularity 2.4/10
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13
Rovan
Makes 1/5 scale gas-powered buggies, with Baja-style chassis parts that suit experienced owners.
Website: rovanrc.com |Brands like Rovan
Popularity 2.3/10
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14
TEAM CORALLY
Competition-focused touring and buggy racers, plus organised events aimed at new racers.
Website: corally.com |Brands like TEAM CORALLY
Popularity 2.3/10
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15
Force1
Mostly drones, with RC cars and boats too, aimed at kids and first-time buyers.
Website: force1rc.com |Brands like Force1
Popularity 2.1/10
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16
Traxxas
Slash and Rustler buggies and trucks running Traxxas's own TQi radio and Velineon brushless power, bought ready to drive.
Website: traxxas.com |Brands like Traxxas
Popularity 2.1/10
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17
EpochAir
Epoch Air is a china-based brand that sells electronic devices at very affordable rates to almost half of the world. Epoch Air offers an extensive range of kid’s toys which are fun to play with, like the levitating ball, wall...
Popularity 2.0/10
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18
CEN
Small line of six race-focused car models, designed for club-level competition.
Website: cenracingusa.com |Brands like CEN
Popularity 1.6/10
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19
Spin Master
Toronto-based Spin Master makes toys and games for children, including Paw Patrol figures, vehicles, and monster truck toys. Its board games sit alongside the character-based lines. The company also develops digital games for young audiences.
Website: spinmaster.com |Brands like Spin Master
Popularity 1.4/10
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20
Mattel
Mattel makes dolls, action figures, games and toys under well-known names such as Barbie, Hot Wheels and Fisher-Price. Harold Matson and Elliot Handler founded the company in 1945, and its name combines their surnames. Its products are aimed at children...
Website: shop.mattel.com |Brands like Mattel
Popularity 1.1/10
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21
Axial
Crawlers and scale trucks such as the SCX10, built for trail driving and rock crawling.
Website: axialracing.com |Brands like Axial
Popularity 1.1/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jada Toys | jadatoysinc.com | /JadaToys | jadatoys | @jadaclub | jadatoys2day |
| Tamiya | tamiyausa.com | – | – | – | – |
| Maisto | maisto.com | /MaistoToys | maistotoys | @maistotoys | MaistoDesign |
| TYCO | tycois.com | /tycois | – | @Tyco_IS | Tyco Integrated Security |
| WLtoys | wltoys.eu | – | – | – | – |
| Kyosho | rc.kyosho.com | /KyoshoCorpRC | kyosho_rc_models_official | – | kyoshomovie |
| HOSIM | hosim.com | /byHosim | – | – | – |
| MJX | mjxrc.net | /MJXRCOfficial | mjx_rc | @MJXRC | – |
Fast RC Car Buying Guide
Remote control cars have been popular for decades, but in recent years, racing these tiny speed machines has evolved into a serious hobby enjoyed by enthusiasts around the world. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the right RC car can make all the difference in your racing experience. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect fast RC car.
1. Consider the Type and Terrain
The first thing to consider when purchasing a fast RC car is the type of racing you'll be doing and the terrain you'll be racing on. There are several types to choose from, each designed for different purposes:
- On-Road RC Cars: Designed specifically for racing on smooth, paved surfaces like parking lots, driveways, and race tracks. These cars can reach incredibly high speeds, but they are not well-suited for rough terrains.
- Off-Road RC Cars: These cars are built with durable suspensions and monster truck-style wheels to handle rough, outdoor terrains like dirt, gravel, and rocky trails. They generally have lower speeds than on-road RC cars, but they make up for it with superior handling and durability.
- Crawler RC Cars: These cars are designed for slow, precise driving over extremely rough and rocky terrains. They are equipped with special features like oversized tires, locking differentials, and powerful motors, and can often climb over obstacles like boulders, logs, and steep inclines.
Choose the type of RC car that suits your preferred racing style, and make sure it is designed to handle the type of terrain you'll be racing on.
2. Consider the Speed and Power
Most fast RC cars come with different speeds and power levels. If you're serious about racing, you'll probably want a car that has a high top speed and acceleration. Most cars will list their maximum speed in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h). Keep in mind that the actual speed may vary depending on factors like the terrain, the weight of the car, and the skill level of the driver. Some cars also offer different speed modes or performance settings, so you can adjust your vehicle to match your driving style.
Another important factor to consider is the power source. The majority of RC cars use electric motors that are powered by rechargeable batteries. These batteries typically last for 15-30 minutes of continuous use, depending on the car and the battery capacity. Some cars use Nitro or Gasoline-powered engines, which are much faster and more powerful than electric motors, but require more maintenance and are not as beginner-friendly.
3. Consider the Size and Scale
RC cars come in a variety of sizes and scales, ranging from tiny palm-sized cars to large, 1/5 scale monster trucks. The size and scale of your car can affect its speed, handling, and durability. Generally speaking, smaller cars are lighter and faster, but may not be as durable as larger models. Larger cars are heavier and slower, but are better suited for rough terrains and can handle jumps and obstacles more easily.
4. Consider the Brand and Model
Like with any product, there are different brands and models of RC cars to choose from. Some of the most popular brands include Traxxas, ARRMA, Axial, and Losi. Each brand has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and it's a good idea to research each one before making a decision. It's also important to choose a car model that is well-reviewed by other RC enthusiasts, and has a good reputation for quality and durability.
5. Consider the Price
RC cars can range in price from $50 to over $1000, depending on the brand, model, and features included. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option available, remember that you often get what you pay for. Cheaper cars may have lower speeds and weaker parts, and are more prone to breaking down. On the other hand, more expensive cars often come with advanced features like adjustable suspensions, high-performance tires, and brushless motors that can improve your racing experience. Set a budget for yourself and try to find the best RC car within that price range.
6. Consider the Parts and Accessories
As with any vehicle, RC cars are prone to wear and tear over time, and may need replacement parts or accessories to keep them running smoothly. It's a good idea to purchase a car model that has a wide variety of spare parts and upgrades available, so you can easily repair and upgrade your car as needed. Look for a car that has a large selection of wheels, tires, shocks, and other parts that are compatible with your particular model. You may also want to invest in a set of tools and a good quality RC car battery charger to keep your car in top shape.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best fast RC car that meets your needs, budget, and racing style. With the right car and a bit of practice, you'll be well on your way to becoming a top RC racer!
