Every Tip To Know When Selecting Your First RC Car: Budget, Skill Level, Terrain, and More
Have you ever envisioned yourself speeding around a local park or your home in a scaled-down high-speed racer?
Do you enjoy the rush of maneuvering a well-designed remote-controlled vehicle around bends and overjumps?
If so, you're prepared to get your first remote-controlled car and become an RC fanatic!
Nevertheless, choosing the perfect starter RC car can seem overwhelming at first. With so many alternatives spanning different skill levels and terrains, how can you decide where to start?
We've got you covered, so don't worry. This thorough guide will help you consider all the important aspects when selecting your first remote-controlled car.
We will cover setting a reasonable budget, assessing your present level of expertise, where and how you intend to drive, whether speed or control should be prioritized, gas vs. electric models, body types and scales, reliable brands to search for, and much more.
You will have a clear understanding of the characteristics and capabilities to search for in an RC that fits your requirements and degree of enthusiasm at the conclusion.
Let's dive in.
#1 - Determine Your Budget
Establishing a reasonable budget for your first RC car is the first and most crucial step.
Even if swooning over those $1,000 highly customizable models is exciting, you should start modestly until you are sure that this is a passion you will continue.
Generally speaking, you should spend no more than $200 on your first remote-control vehicle. High-quality, beginner-specific ready-to-run (RTR) devices that cost between $100 and $200 are readily available.
With these reasonably priced starting RC cars, you may practice controlling and running an RC without going over budget.
Aside from the car itself, think about budgeting for any additional beginning expenses that may be required. Essential tools, a battery charger, and a few extra rechargeable batteries should be included.
Even though some RTR models are completely furnished and ready to drive right out of the box, you'll probably need a few extras, so budget an extra $50 or so on top of the vehicle's purchase price.
Nevertheless, you might choose to drive first if you want to save money, have limited funds, or want to try driving! The objective is to locate a reasonably priced, entry-level RC car that allows you to develop your talents while maintaining a minimal initial expenditure.
Avoid being tempted to overpay on your first RC only to find that you don't really utilize it! The enjoyable journey into radio-controlled cars includes starting small, learning the ropes, and gradually upgrading over time.
#2 - Assess Your Skill Level
It's time to evaluate your present skill level objectively after you've established your budget. Your first RC's capabilities and style should complement your current level of experience. Here, be truthful with yourself.
If you're a complete novice who has never driven an RC car, look for ready-to-run (RTR) models marked "novice," "newbie," or "starter." These are already built and ready to use right out of the box.
They are made to be straightforward and manageable. Features like automated stability controls, training modes that restrict steering and acceleration, and slower top speeds are perfect for beginners.
However, RC hobbyists who have driven more sophisticated model cars or flown drones have some transferable skills. A vehicle with completely proportional steering, braking, and throttle controls is what you'll desire.
At this point, steer clear of really complicated RCs and instead look for customizing possibilities. Reduce unnecessary accessories and concentrate on mastering the fundamentals of driving.
Avoiding overestimating your skills as a novice is crucial.
Wait until you truly understand what you're doing before investing in highly customized trucks. Before attempting to run at sixty miles per hour, learn to walk! A more pleasurable and fulfilling introduction to the pastime is ensured by choosing an RC that is precisely matched to your present skill level.
#3 - Think About Where You'll Drive
Many novices forget to consider where and how they want to drive their new RC car. Your model's capabilities and performance should be appropriate for the surfaces and environments in which you plan to test it.
A tiny micro or mini remote-controlled automobile is ideal for indoor use only on smooth, level ground. These slower, lighter indoor vehicles have suspension and soft tires that provide good traction on low-pile carpeting, tile, or wood. Driving them outside would be harsh on their sensitive areas.
On the other hand, tough waterproof shocks and gripping tread tires are necessary for powerful short-course trucks or buggies designed for off-road terrain. Because of their size and speed, they are not suitable for indoor environments. Before you buy, think about the terrain you'll be tackling.
If you intend to alternate between playing indoors and going outside, search for all-purpose remote-control cars that are referred to as "backyard bashers." These robust, adaptable RCs can handle shocks and minor off-roading while gliding between surfaces.
Consider the times and locations you'll be traveling to, then pick an RC vehicle made specifically for those circumstances. This guarantees that an improper setup won't hamper the car and that it will function at its peak on the surfaces you'll encounter.
#4 - Prioritize Speed vs. Control
Prioritizing power and speed over control in a first RC is one of the most frequent beginner errors. It's tempting to flaunt the quickest model available, but speed alone will only result in damage and wrecks if you lack the necessary skills.
Generally speaking, for your first RC car, keep top speeds between 10 and 15 mph. Before increasing to faster speeds, you can safely learn how to regulate the throttle and steering at this more reasonable speed.
To limit acceleration until you have more experience, look for limited speed settings and adjustable speed governors.
At least initially, stability and maneuverability should be prioritized over pure speed. Look for an RC with a low center of gravity, a balanced chassis, traction-enhancing features like differential gearing or four-wheel drive, and shock absorbers that can easily manage small bumps.
After you've gained confidence driving your first remote-controlled car, you can gradually improve components like the motor, gears, and battery to boost speed capabilities.
#5 - Gas vs. Electric Models
When it comes to powering your first RC car, you will mainly have to select between electric and nitro/gas types. Depending on your needs and degree of experience, consider the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Electric remote-control cars are the most popular among novices because they are more straightforward to use and maintain. Batteries supply electricity instantly and don't require any complex adjustment. Charge and go for a drive. But without an accurate combustion engine, sound and realism are constrained.
Real miniature engines that roar and smoke like the full-sized ones power nitro or gas RC cars, which are powered by special fuel. Though they need more upkeep and tuning expertise, they provide a far more realistic experience.
Electric is highly suggested for your first remote control. It eliminates difficult pull-starts, idle adjustments, and untidy exhaust. Additionally, rechargeable battery packs are more affordable and convenient.
Later, if your skills improve, you can always install a nitro RC with more intricate engine parts.
#6 - Scale/Style of the Body
As you go through the many RC car body shapes, you'll see that some are based on actual cars, while others are more stylized or whimsical. As you choose, think about the design elements that you find most appealing.
Scale remote control bodies, such as 1/10, 1/8, or 1/5-sized model automobiles and trucks, are popular for realism. Because of the craftsmanship, these appear remarkably similar to the life-sized equivalents. Although they are more costly and less maneuverable, larger scales, such as 1/5, might feel more realistic to drive.
Hobby-grade RC cars frequently have bright colors and patterns added to distinctive body shells for a more whimsical appearance. These creative designs sacrifice reality to provide striking flair.
Although it may be tempting to purchase the most aesthetically pleasing RC, keep in mind that lower scales provide novices superior handling and control. When you have mastered driving dynamics on smaller 1/10 or 1/8 scale bodies, save the enormous 1/5 reproductions for later.
Regardless of your preference for expressive stylistic designs or accurate scale bodies, pick one that is appropriate for your degree of expertise. After you've mastered your new vehicle, you can always switch up the graphics.
#7 - Brands and Reviews
Because there are so many RC car brands available, it helps to concentrate on well-known brands with a reputation for quality and parts availability. For hobby-grade entry-level cars, Traxxas, V8engineforsale, Team Associated, Arrma, Redcat, ECX, and HPI Racing are all good options.
After you've selected a few companies, look through RC forums and verified user reviews to find one that is agreeable. Look for warning signs of complex assembly, low reliability, or absence of part support. You want a model that has been shown to be durable and easy to use.
Verify the included electronics. Instead of using inferior generic parts, beginner-friendly RCs should come with a simple 2-channel transmitter, battery, and charger. To prevent surprises, carefully review the features provided.
Sticking with reputable industry names improves your chances of long-term enjoyment of the pastime, even if eye-catching advertisements for unknown products attract you. When you're ready, repairs and upgrades go more smoothly, thanks to their extensive component availability.
Wrapping Up
Selecting your first remote-controlled vehicle is a thrilling achievement! Use your money, skill level, hobbies, and planned driving environment as a reference to choose the best beginner model.
Think about scale, styles, gas versus electric, control versus speed. Read reviews and do some research on popular brands.
As you learn, have patience; begin slowly and gradually improve. For those who love to drive, RC cars offer countless hours of fun. Browse your alternatives and select the ideal beginning RC for you with the help of these professional suggestions.
