This guide is designed specifically for beginners and focuses on cars that are easy to use, durable, and fun to drive. We’ll walk you through the different types of RC cars, key features to look for, and provide tips on how to select the best model based on your preferences and budget. With the right knowledge, you’ll be ready to get started on your RC adventure in no time!

Factors to Choose the Right RC Car for Beginners

Choosing the right car involves balancing performance with ease of use. Here are some factors to consider:

Type of RC Cars: 

Understanding the type of terrain you want to drive on is one of the most important factors in choosing an RC car. Here’s an overview of the most common types of RC cars: 

Off Road Cars: Monster Trucks (MT), Buggies and Truggies , Rock Crawlers

RC off-road cars are perfect for beginners who want versatility and fun. Built to handle rough terrains like dirt, grass, and gravel, these cars offer a thrilling driving experience. With durable motors and strong suspension, they can tackle bumps and obstacles, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.

On Road Cars: Drift Cars, Touring Cars

On-road RC cars are great for beginners looking to enjoy fast-paced racing on smooth, flat surfaces. These cars are built for precision handling, making them ideal for racing on paved tracks or even around your neighbourhood. With responsive controls and durable designs, on-road RC cars offer a fun and exciting way to get started in the world of RC racing. 

Scale Size:

RC cars come in different scales, which refer to the size ratio of the model compared to a real vehicle. For example, a 1/10 scale car is 1/10th the size of a full-size car. Common scales include 1/10, 1/8, 1/16 and 1/24. Larger-scale models tend to have more stability and better handling.

Budget:

As a beginner, you may not want to spend too much on your first car. Look for a reliable and fun option within the £50-£150 range. This price range typically offers good quality, beginner-friendly models that are durable and easy to use.

Ease of Use:

Some RC cars are “Ready to Run” (RTR), meaning they come fully assembled and are ready to drive right out of the box. This is ideal for beginners who don’t want to deal with assembly or complex setup. Look for cars with simple controls, user-friendly remote transmitters, and clear instructions to help ease the learning curve.

Speed:

RC cars come with different speed capabilities, usually measured in miles per hour (mph). Entry-level models can go anywhere from 10-20 mph, while more advanced cars can exceed 50 mph. 

Maintenance and Repairs:

While RC cars are generally low-maintenance, they do require some upkeep, especially if you drive off-road. Check if the car has easily replaceable parts like tires, wheels, and motors. Beginners should focus on cars that are easy to repair, with parts available online or from the manufacturer.

Top RC Car Picks for Beginners

We have selected the remote control cars in this category to be most suitable for beginners who are new to RC, and want to have an easy, fun experience. All of the items are fully RTR (ready-to-run) and include a battery and charger.

Our favourite monster trucks for beginners:

Both the RCG Racing Wind Speed 1/16 Buggy and the RCG Racing 1/16 MT One Tracer Monster Truck perform exceptionally well, offering great fun and excitement for beginners. Both models come fully equipped with a battery and charger, so you can get started right away. With hundreds of 5-star reviews from our customers, these vehicles are clearly loved for their durability, speed, and handling. Whether you prefer the agility of the buggy or the ruggedness of the monster truck, both deliver fantastic performance and hours of enjoyment on a variety of terrains.

Best beginner drift cars:

RCG Racing 1/24 Mini Drift Car - Red

The RCG Racing 1/24 AE86 Mini Drift Car is an excellent choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of RC drifting. Its compact size makes it easy to handle, while the lightweight design and responsive controls ensure smooth drifting right out of the box. Incredibly affordable, this mini drift car is a top choice for those just starting out in the hobby. Whether you're indoors or on a small outdoor track, it's a fun and accessible way to get into RC drifting.

Best beginner rock-crawler:

 

RCG Racing 1/16 Rock Crawler - Black

The RCG Racing 1/16 RC Rock Crawler has been our most popular beginner rock crawler for many years. It’s affordable, strong, and durable, offering exceptional performance for its price point. Designed to handle tough terrain with ease, this compact crawler is perfect for newcomers looking for a reliable and fun introduction to rock crawling. With its robust build and solid performance, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the outdoors and take on obstacles without breaking the bank.

All these RC cars are hobby-grade, meaning they’re not like the toy cars you might find at a supermarket. Hobby-grade cars are built for better performance, control, and long-term use. Many come with replaceable parts and the option for upgrades, so they can grow with your skills.