Super-Fast RC Cars Under $100 for Off-road and Rocky Terrain

If you're looking for a great RC car either for your racing hobby or as a present for your kid, but if you know anything about RC cars, you know that other than checking for a powerful motor, you will get great value in affordable RC cars. That said, there are good options for fast remote control cars under $100.

Generally, because of the size, even the RC cars that are relatively slow are still fast enough. For instance, some off-the-shelf, lower-end remote control vehicles with weaker motors, powered by NiCad or alkaline batteries, have their top speed, usually between 5 to 15 mph. Keep in mind that 15 miles per hour are more than three times faster than how fast people walk.

In an enclosed place, they can be quite fast. If it's still not enough, remote control cars are at the end of the “speed spectrum” that can be incredibly fast. Ordinarily, both high-speed RC cars and most high-end models reach speeds as high as 70 mph. However, a well-built remote control car and some RC dragster-style models also exceed 100 mph on different occasions.

Which is the fastest  remote control cars?

Super-Fast Remote Control Cars Under $100 for All-terrain

1. BEZGAR 17 1:14 Scale Remote Control Monster Truck

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If you want fast remote control cars on a budget, the BEZGAR 17 Remote Control Monster Truck has drift car capabilities in a rugged off-roading build. ABS plastic makes up the RC car's body, and an aluminum alloy helps boost the longevity of the trucks. Thus, you do not have to worry about the toy colliding and getting damaged when drifting.

Admittedly, the 20 km/h top speed falls behind more premium options since they use a brushless motor. However, it would be wrong to say that these RC cars are not fun. Plus, on rare occasions when you are racing or drifting outdoors, the vibration damping system will ensure the monster trucks do not suffer damage to the electronic components.

Moreover, the remote control car has an impressive battery life of 50 minutes to give you plenty of time to enjoy the drive. Plus, the tires are wide and thick to give you excellent traction and stability on different terrains. Finally, the LED lights make the models more realistic-looking and allow you to spot them when driving in low light conditions.

2. DEERC DE45 1:14 Off-Road Monster Truck

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One of the best RC cars in the category of rock crawlers is the DEERC DE45 Monster Truck, capable of 45-degree climbs to ensure no objects stand in your way. The RC car's body is made from a durable metal shell that protects the internal components from abuse as a roll cage when you take it off-roading. Plus, the simulated cockpits on these toy cars make them appear more realistic, and they will make an excellent gift for monster truck enthusiasts.

These models come with two rechargeable 1200 mAh batteries that can give you a combined 90 minutes of fun. In addition, the USB cable lets you charge up the RC car when the power runs low. Thus, you can extend your driving time.

The DE45 remote control cars come with wheels designed with anti-slip properties and shock absorbers. Hence, you can go off-roading with this monster truck without worrying about unstable surfaces. Plus, the front part of the toy car has an anti-collision bumper so that it remains protected no matter your driving condition.

3. BEZGAR Electric Toy Off-Road RC Monster Truck

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Here is an RC monster truck by BEZGAR that is super affordable and has a solid design and performance. Like the other cars on the list, it generally looks great. On the outside, it comes packed in a black and yellow theme. In addition, it sports bright LED lights on the front bumpers to help you work your way in dark places.

It has oversized anti-skid tires for a firm grip that allows the BEZGAR RC truck to hold well across different surfaces, both off-road and on-road flat surfaces.

Additionally, it features a sturdy chassis with shock absorbers and metal springs and a decent canopy that’s long-lasting and that will hold on well at full speed. It has oil-filled shock absorbers, which improve its handling, especially on rough terrain.

The BEZGAR’s RC truck can achieve up to 42km/h with a coverage of 80 meters (260ish feet). The run time is around 25 minutes; however, you will need to upgrade the default battery of the vehicle. Overall, this is a great racing car for you or your kid, a great way to have fun or engage in your hobby.

4. HAIBOXING 1:18 Scale All Terrain RC Car 18859E

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If you are looking for quality toy cars for kids and adults, the HAIBOXING 18859E RC Car is one of your best bets. These models are powered by 380 brushed motors that make the four-wheel-drive option capable of traversing rugged terrains at a 36 km/hr top speed. In addition, this remote control car features independent suspension for the front and rear wheels. Also, the aluminum ringed shocks let you adjust the spring tension, traction and suspension travel for the device.

Moreover, the throttle and steering on these remote-controlled cars are proportional and agile. Plus, you will not experience signal loss or delay when commanding the device. Its 2.4 GHz radio control system can give you an operating range of 280 feet. Also, you can easily maneuver the RC car thanks to the 36-degree steering angle that imitates authentic driving.

The tires offer excellent grip, while the RC car's body is PVC for flexibility and durability. Additionally, the remote control is ready-to-run, and you do not need to adjust the settings too much to get started. Finally, you can shop for all the service parts online.

5. SZJJX Remote Control Car

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The SZJJX has independent suspensions on each of its four wheels for better off-road stability. Also, the RC car has an excellent mix of flexibility and firmness thanks to the numerous screws across the body and PVC outer shell. Plus, the toy car has shockproof qualities to protect the internal electronic components when going through uneven terrains.

The four-wheel-drive design on these RC cars makes them capable rock crawlers. Plus, you will not get any performance dips when pushing this toy car to the limit. Hence, you can take the device to the sandy beach, grassy meadows, rocky terrains and snowy yards.

The anti-jamming capabilities of the 2.4 GHz radio frequency add to the list of enjoyable perks. You can have similar models of SZJJX racing and experience no interference. Plus, the response time is impressively quick and accurate.

6. IMDEN Remote Control Off-Road Electric Monster Truck

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THe IMDEN Remote Control Off-Road Electric Monster Truck is an excellent alternative to high-speed RC drift cars but with all-terrain capabilities. For starters, you get a top speed above 30 mph thanks to the power of the 390 brushed motors. Thus, you can have fun on different terrains without dropping in performance.

The radio remote transmitter features an ergonomic design to do not tire from driving. Additionally, you get a range of 260 feet while the throttle and steering remain responsive to let you roam freely through the wilderness. Plus, the heavy-duty wheels are lined with spikes to give you reliable performance at high speeds with stable turning.

Furthermore, you get 20 to 30 minutes of fun when the battery is full, and you can double the time with the extra one with a similar capacity. Also, the shockproof suspension means this RC car will remain stable regardless of the rocks and uneven surfaces.

7. DEERC RC Cars 1: 16 Off-Road All-Terrain Remote Control Truck

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The MIEBELY RC car is a Traxxas RC car with a brushed electric motor for a sturdy driving force. It can do a maximum of 40+ km/h, while the 4WD aspect of the truck ensures that the driver can drive out in adventure since it's an all-terrain vehicle. Moreover, it is beginner-friendly for both children and first-time users.

It has two batteries that are high capacity and has two-car bodies that set it apart from the other vehicles within the same price bracket. Each battery carries a capacity of 1000 mAh, which comes in a classic ball bearings design with rubber tires and stuck protection.

It also has an independent suspension system that combines the classic design with modern and exciting technology. The radio control system of the truck allows the entire function and operates at 2.4 GHz. It has an excellent system that is great for racing with multiple people in different cars simultaneously. The model control has a range of 80 meters.

The vehicle has a durable construction. It has an independent suspension with springs, while the front and rear suspensions make this model flexible to support its anti-shock capabilities, meaning you can use any road with this car.

The body of the car is elegantly streamlined for an aesthetic approach that doubles in increasing the speed while racing as well. In addition, the manufacturer of this car offers excellent customer service.

8. HOSIM SPIRIT 1/10 RC Car

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Here is the best RC car that you can get for less than $100. The HOSIM’s Spirit mode 1/10 version is big and has several massive improvements. The HOSIM Spirit is on the 1/10 scale RC cars and can be purchased for as low as $100.

Just because it is relatively affordable, it doesn’t mean that it’s not good. Quite the contrary, there aren’t many similarly priced RC car models that come with as much power as the HOSIM Spirit RC car.

Performance-wise, it has an upward 45km/h top speed, 80m/260ft maximum over a 2.4Ghz range, with a 15-minute runtime even while pushing on the throttle at maximum, all through.

This product might seem to have a relatively short battery duration, but because there are two power-hungry RC390 brushed motors. Consequently, it features a genuine 4WD experience, a lifesaver in off-roading scenarios. All in all, for $100, the HOSIM Spirit 1/10 is the best RC car vehicle you can get at the moment.

9. HOSIM 1/16High Speed RC Monster Trucks for Adults

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If you don't get your hands on any remote control vehicles here, don't miss out on HOSIM’s potent 1/16 monster truck model with the codename Spirit. This product is a heavy-duty RC truck with massive anti-skid wheels that has it ready to run on all sorts of terrain.

It resembles a rock crawler closely, but the HOSIM Spirit 1/16 acts differently. It is not your typical rock crawler since HOSIM’S Spirit can also develop solid motor speeds in addition to its obstacle-beating feature that goes above 36 km/h.

Additionally, the HOSIM Spirit packs a 2.4Ghz transmitter connection that can work up to an 80-meter coverage (260 feet). This 4WD vehicle means that the car can drive on all surfaces, including snow, dirt, or rocky terrain.

The canopy of the HOSIM Spirit comes in two colors, blue and red, for an overall good-looking appearance. In addition, the individual shocks have splashes of red, giving it an extra layer of detail.

Factors to Consider When Getting Fast Remote Control Cars Under $100

1. Battery life

The best remote control truck has either one of the two rechargeable batteries options: Li-Po or Ni-Mh. Ni-Mh is meant for beginners since it's easier to use and but it's also not as powerful; but if you are more experienced, then you should consider Li-Po batteries since they produce higher racing speeds. Unfortunately, they are also more expensive. Some battery brands will only go for roughly 15 minutes, while others will run much longer from a single charge. 

2. Speed

The best RC truck is built for high speed. RC trucks are typically lightweight in makeup; however, the downside is that the materials are usually less durable. These vehicles are built ready to run at top speeds, execute those quick turns, and smooth ride on the race tracks. Pay special attention to whether the controls and steering are easy to operate at high speeds.

3. Durability

You want your fast RC cars under $100 to last as long, so you won’t have to spend any money trying to replace anything. To do this, you need to select a product made of high-quality and durable parts. The best RC trucks are strong with resistant chassis. Ensure that all the parts, especially the internal parts, are protected so that the RC toys don't break if they hit a curb or flip over.

4. Control range

The control range describes how far you can drive the RC truck away from your transmitter before controlling it becomes a challenge. Generally, 30 meters control range is considered pretty good. It’s not fun if you can’t control your remote control vehicle from a decent distance.

5. Off-Road Capabilities

Ensure the wheels of the remote control car are built for rough terrains. Additionally, waterproof builds and controllers ensure you do not have to stop the fun when it starts to rain. Finally, a four-wheel-drive feature ensures the RC car does not get stuck on obstacles or rocks.

6. Additional Features

Unfortunately, extras like optional pinion gear, highly detailed models, portal axles, a brushless motor and a car finder are staples in more premium remote control cars like the Traxxas Rustler RC CAR. Toy cars in the under $100 price range are pretty limited in the feature department.

Nevertheless, look out for safety features that prevent the battery from over-charging, front and rear differentials for better navigation, options that come ready to run and a quick charge time. After all, you can find a terrific way to have fun and remain within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions on Fast RC Cars Under $100

1. What type of remote control cars can you get at less than $100?

• Rock crawlers
• Buggies
• F1 replicas
• Touring cars

2. What dimensions can you get at that price range?

At this price point, most models fall under 1/16. 1/16 means that the RC model is approximately one-sixteenth the size of its genuine counterpart car. You can opt for a 1/18 or smaller durable RC car if you’re looking for an RC car that you can use inside the house.

Nowadays, they get as small as 1/24, but you’ll need better performance at that size. Generally, 1/16 is the sweet spot for the best RC cars under $100.

                                                                                                         Image Source: Unsplash.com