RC CARS / START WITH THE SURFACE
Where will you drive it?
RCCritic is research-led: we use maker data and published sources. We have not done hands-on tests yet.
First RC car? Of the 37 car, truck and crawler records here, 7 current ready-to-run packages include both the drive battery and a charger: USD 119.99 to USD 249.99, scales 1/24 to 1/10, maker list prices read 2026-11-04:
- Axial SCX24 Base Camp USD 119.99
- Axial SCX24 Ford Bronco V2 USD 149.99
- Arrma GRANITE GROM brushed USD 149.99
- Axial SCX24 Dodge Power Wagon USD 159.99
- Redcat Lightning EPX Drift USD 199.95
- Losi Mini-T 2.0 brushless USD 229.99
- Axial UTB18 Capra 4WS USD 249.99
Another 17 current ready-to-run listings (USD 209.99 to USD 999.99) need a battery and charger bought separately. Start with where you will drive, then the complete package.
What do you want to drive?
All vehicle types ↗
Have a brand in mind?
Full catalogue ↗
2S, 3S or a different plug?
Read the battery label, then match the charger. Start with chemistry, cells and the connector.
Battery & charging help ↗
Buying an RC car as a gift?
Shop the full package. See dated maker list prices, age guidance and the items still needed.
Open the gift guide ↗What changes when you change the setup?
Ready for the first charge?
Get the one-page LiPo safety and charging checklist, or the first RC car checklist.
See both checklists ↗