The 7 Best RC Vehicles 2023

If you are an RC car enthusiast, then you understand that it might not be as fun pursuing this incredible hobby if you don’t have the right RC vehicle. For this reason, it is advisable to invest in the best RC car to get the most out of your hobby! 

The market is flooded with RC vehicles from different manufacturers, with some having better features than others. To narrow down your options, I have compiled a list of the 7 best RC vehicles for 2023.

Take a look, and finally, find your best companion on the track! 

Redcat Racing Lightning RC Vehicle 

What I Like 

• It’s an RTR car that’s ready to use straight from the box. 
• It allows for numerous customization options. 
• It has a 40 mph top speed. 
• It’s a 4-wheel drive RC vehicle. 

What I Don’t Like 

• Customization renders the warranty void. 

Overview 

At the top of the list is my favorite RC car, the Lightning EPX Drift from Redcat Racing. 

If you are acquainted with the RC car scene, then you know that this manufacturer is one of the best and with good reason. 

This RC vehicle sports a brushless motor, translating to considerable power moving through the wheels. This allows you to either race on a straight track or go drifting elsewhere. Plus, this is a 1/10 scale RC car, ideal for both kids and adults. 

The body is built using polycarbonate for maximum durability. Also, it features reverse and forward gears for successful movement on the track, thanks to the 2000mAh Li-Po battery, which also contributes to the impressive 40 mph top speed. 

The transmission system is at 2.4 GHz, and it guarantees effective control of the EPX drift without frequency interference from other controllers. 

Moreover, the two pairs of wheels have aluminum oil-filled shocks, and the suspension system is robust and modifiable, which maintains stability at high speed. 

The only thing that could stand between you, the Lightning car, and winning all races is your skills! 

ARRMA Felony RC Vehicle 

What I Like 

• It has a top speed of 80 mph. 
• Incredible construction quality and finish. 
• It has a durable construction. 
• It’s easy to customize.

What I Don’t Like 

• It doesn’t come with the battery.

Overview 

The ARRMA Felony is an incredibly good-looking RC car, and this, combined with its features and great performance, justifies its high price. 

This is an RC vehicle for enthusiasts who do not mind investing in the best and most expensive. Besides its magnificent finish, this is an incredibly powerful vehicle. It features robust metal gears that deliver excellent torque, traction, and speed. 

With a top speed of 80 mph, this car will give the other RC vehicles on this review a run for their money. The tunable aero wing allows you to reach these top speeds and drive with ease. Again, this is a highly customizable RC vehicle. 

Nonetheless, if you don’t have lots of money to spare, this car might not be your best option. 

Traxxas Rustler XL-5

What I Like 

• This car can handle any terrain with ease. 
• Ideal for professionals but forgiving for newbies. 
• It has an impressive top speed. 
• It is easy to maintain. 

What I Don’t Like 

• It is expensive 

Overview 

This RC vehicle is built to impress! 

First, you can navigate any terrain, regardless of the size of obstacles, and with ease. Besides, it is waterproof, making it perfect for driving in any weather, through puddles, mud and snow! Fortunately, this is a low-maintenance RC vehicle and needs minimal special care. 

Regardless of being designed for professional drivers, this RC car is a forgiving option for beginners, precisely those who want a car that’s more captivating and one that needs more skills to drive. 

With a top speed of 35 mph, this RC vehicle is also an excellent option for racers looking for an all-round option. Also, it is entirely durable and offers smooth control! 

BEZGAR RC Monster Truck

What I Like 

• It is robust and powerful
• It is water-resistant. 
• It comes with an additional body shell to offer more customization options. 
• It is perfect for outdoor driving. 

What I Don’t Like 

• Challenging to control at high speeds.

Overview 

For outdoor use, this monster truck is your best companion! 

This truck is engineered to handle all sorts of terrain effectively. It has two pairs of oil-filled ultra shocks, which boost anti-coalition inclination. So, for those who love driving on rocky terrain, this is your perfect match. 

On top of that, this is a water and chemical-resistant RC truck, making it ideal for numerous terrains despite the contents. The extra body shell it comes with helps you customize this truck to your liking. 

At 25 mph, this is a fast buggy, I think it’s too pricey for that top speed. Also, it can be challenging to drive at high speeds. But overall, this beast has plenty of potential for off-roading that you can always exploit. 

Traxxas Slash 2WD 

What I Like 

• Excellent performance from the start. 
• Spare and upgrade parts are easy to find. 
• Efficient suspension system. 

What I Don’t Like 

• It’s not a good off-road option. 

Overview 

After using this car for two months, I have appreciated the features it has and its great performance. It is easily customizable, and finding upgrade parts is a breeze. It handles a handful of terrains with ease, but it’s not an option I would recommend for off-roading. It is great for drifting, and it’s incredibly good-looking. 

The suspension, springs, and oil-filled shocks are well-matched, which allows for easy and effective body squats and rolls. Once you improve your skills, you can look for upgraded parts on the market, and fortunately, they are easy to find. 

HBX Rampage RC Vehicle

What I Like 

• Compact and extremely powerful. 
• Ideal for all types of terrain. 
• Notable top speed

What I Don’t Like 

• It might not be the right pick for adults. 

Overview 

If you are looking for a compact RC truck with ample power for your kids, then this RC truck is an excellent choice. 

This is a 1/18-scale car that’s designed to be just as powerful as the larger options on the market. It features an RC380 engine and 4WD capacity to beat the competition. 

Besides, the rampage truck sports all the necessary mechanical components that make an RC vehicle flexible, including a strong gear differential, ball bearings, and independent suspension. Fortunately, it offers a generous range, as I can easily operate it when I’m 280 feet away. 

Something else I love about this RC truck is that it has a large-capacity battery and is waterproof. With the right maintenance, this RC truck can last you a long time! 

Team Associated A550 Rally RC Vehicle 

What I Like 

• This is an RTR car. 
• Incredibly powerful with great performance. 
• Robust and beautiful build. 

What I Don’t Like 

• It doesn’t have a brushless system. 

Overview 

This is a great RC rally vehicle manufactured by one of the best brands in the industry. 

This is a solid RC vehicle with a robust plastic build. Additionally, it is a four-wheel drive model that sports a double-control suspension that employs friction shocks. Unfortunately, this RC car doesn’t have ball bearings, and it features a brushed motor. 

While RC rallying isn’t more about power, it doesn’t hurt to have a more powerful model than the competition. 

All the same, I appreciate the 2S LiPo battery, though you can upgrade to a #s battery for more power. The package also includes a usable XP120 radio that will offer you all the functionality necessary for a newbie. 

Conclusion

Finding the best RC vehicle doesn’t have to be hectic. Pick one of the cars I’ve recommended here, and you’ll be good to go. 

The Redcat Lightning is my top pick because it is versatile, fast, and rather affordable. Also, it comes from a well-known manufacturer. 

You can also choose the ARRMA felony RC car since it is the runner-up, though it will cost you an arm and a leg. Hopefully, I have helped you effectively narrow down your list of options and finally decide which one to buy. 

Happy Shopping!