3 Main Features to Look for in RC Hobby Cars: Buying Guide

Getting your first RC car can be quite confusing since all this new jargon is being thrown at you without any explanation or context. I know how picky beginners can get but in order to get the car you like will have to be the one that also fits your needs the most. What I mean by this is that you may want to do a lot of drifting but getting a very powerful vehicle will make it harder for you to do so. Balance is key when choosing the right type of RC car, that's why we are going to explain the three major factors that will help you make a better choice.


Power

Since we mentioned the power of RC vehicles first, we might as well explain it. With RC cars and every RC vehicle, in general, you get to choose from either nitro or electric. Now, although nitro powered RC hobby cars sound way cooler than electric ones, they are actually not as popular nowadays, especially between beginners. Don't get me wrong they are still a good choice but the amount of maintenance there is to them overshadows every other aspect as beginners tend to avoid them.

They offer longer run times but unlike electronic cars, they can't be driven indoors, and whilst being speedier than electronic powered RC hobby cars they are also noisier. Electric RC cars only require a few switches and some plugs to run while nitro powered cars need a special "nitro" fuel. They do have fumes and gasses coming out, which some find it to be more realistic and others frustrating.

Style

The style of RC hobby cars is also divided into two categories - on road and offroad. Off-road vehicles are meant to run over speed bumps, jump over curves and take up a beating or two. They are bulkier and heavier than on-road vehicles but aren't very easy to handle - they come either in 2WD or 4WD. They have bigger tires, more robust shocks and lengthier suspension parts.

On-road RC vehicles are meant to be used just on a smooth surface like concrete and they are mostly 4WD with an independent suspension system, treaded tires and carbon/ titanium/ aluminium parts. While they are more appealing than off-road vehicles, going through robust terrains and jumping off curbs is not in their range of capabilities.

Form

This would be mainly personal preference but how you get your vehicle can actually affect its durability. RTR or ready-to-run RC cars are just that. They do not need any preparations, except for charging the battery, which makes them ideal for kids who aren't as interested or skilful in assembling their own vehicle.

If you are someone who wants to get to know the internals of their remote-controlled friend a kit is the way to go but beware they do not come with motors or radio gear. They may require some time in order to get them on the road but they sure give you the pleasure of building something on your own and they are cheaper than RTR vehicles.

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