Top RC Cars under $200 for Off-Road Racing and Drifting

Top RC Cars under $200 for Off-Road Racing and Drifting

Remote control (RC) cars are a thrilling hobby that people of all ages can enjoy. They’re fascinating, entertaining, and offer a new perspective on the world of racing. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced enthusiast, a beginner looking for a new hobby, or someone who needs a gift for a friend or family member, there are different RC cars available for every budget and skill level.

Before diving into the world of RC cars, there are several things to consider. First, you’ll need to think about your budget. RC cars can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, so it’s essential to set a realistic budget that suits your needs. The second thing to consider is the types of RC cars available. There are different types, including off-road trucks, drift cars, buggies, and more, each with its unique features and advantages.

Third, you’ll need to think about your skill level. If you’re new to RC cars, it’s best to start with a model that’s easy to operate and control, with straightforward and intuitive remote control. Fourth, you’ll also want to consider the speed and battery life of the RC car. You don’t want to end up with a car that runs out of battery too quickly and limits your driving time.

Overall, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s an RC car for everyone. With a variety of options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect car to suit your budget and your needs.

Before making a purchase, there are several essential features to consider when selecting the best RC car under 200:

  • Battery Life: This feature should be a top consideration. The battery life of your RC car determines how long it will run before needing recharging. Ensure the car you are buying has a decent battery life that is sufficient for your needs. RC cars have different run times. The Hosim Large Size 1:10 Scale High-Speed 46km/h 4WD Remote Control Truck has a battery life of up to 30 minutes. On the other hand, the Cheerwing 1:18 Rock Crawler has a battery life of about 20 minutes.
  • Durability: You don’t want to spend money on an RC car that will break easily or can’t withstand rough terrain. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the durability of the RC car you’re purchasing. Check out the brand reputation and reviews of the car before making a purchase. Some RC cars are designed to be more robust than others and can withstand crashes and bumps without breaking apart.
  • Speed: Depending on what you want to do with your RC car, speed is a crucial factor to consider. Some RC cars can go as fast as 60 mph, while others may have a lower maximum speed. Off-road trucks, for instance, might require a faster maximum speed than drift cars.
  • Remote Control: The RC car’s remote control should be easy to use and intuitive. Some RC cars come with a sturdy and straightforward remote control, while others come with a more complex one. If you’re new to RC cars, choose a model with a user-friendly remote control.
  • Suspension: An RC car’s suspension system can help with traversing rough terrain. It needs to be adjustable to adapt to different driving conditions. Look for an RC car with good suspension to help keep your car on the road even in rough terrain.

In addition to the above factors, you should also do extensive research on different brands, models, and features of RC cars. The more information you gather, the more informed the decision you’ll make when picking an RC car. Websites like Amazon and RC car forums like RCTech are excellent resources to learn more about RC cars and to read reviews on specific models.

How to choose ESC for RC car?

When choosing an ESC for your RC car, it’s important to look at the motor limit specified for the ESC. This limit can be in terms of kv or turns, and you’ll need to choose a motor that adheres to this limit. For example, if the ESC specifies a motor limit of 8.5T on a 2S battery, then you should use a motor with 8.5 turns or more. If a kv rating is used instead, then choose a motor with a lower kv value than the limit. Some popular websites for purchasing ESCs include Amazon, HobbyKing, and Tower Hobbies.

Top 3 Best RC Drift Cars under $200

Drifting RC cars is a popular activity among hobbyists. Drift cars are designed to slide and lose traction while driving to create a unique driving style. The following are the top three best RC drift cars under $200:

Brand/Model Top Speed Scale Size Price Range
Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car 13 mph 1/10 $149.99
Exceed RC MadSpeed Drift King 15 mph 1/10 $189.95
Hosim 1/12th Scale Electric RC Car 30 mph 1/12 $99.99
  • Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car: At a price range of $149.99, this car offers excellent value for its price. It comes with a 19T brushed 550 electric motor that gives you the power you need to drift, and an adjustable suspension system that lets you customize your drift. However, its max speed is only 13 mph.
  • Exceed RC MadSpeed Drift King: Designed with a lot of attention to details, this car is perfect for beginners and experienced drifters alike. It comes with a rechargeable battery and can attain speeds of up to 15 mph. It costs $189.95 and has a 1/10 scale size.
  • Hosim 1/12th Scale Electric RC Car: This is the perfect option for anyone on a budget but still wants a great car for drifting. It costs only $99.99 but still has plenty of power — a battery life of up to 30 minutes and a top speed of 30 mph.

If you’re new to drifting RC cars, it’s important to spend time on online forums, like the ones on rcgroups.com, to learn more about technique while drifting, maintenance, and ask for recommendations on products. Drifting RC cars can be a skill-intensive and rewarding hobby, so taking the time to research before your purchase can lead to having a lot of fun behind the remote.

Why are RC cars so popular?

RC cars are popular because of their ability to reach high speeds ranging from 30 mph to 80+ mph. These cars are available in different scales such as 1/10, 1/24 and 1/8. Many people prefer 1/8 scale RC cars as they are easier to control due to their size. RC cars provide entertainment for people of all ages, making them a popular hobby.


When it comes to selecting the best RC car under 200, there are specific features to consider. Here are the key things to look for when choosing an RC car that fits your budget:

  • Brand: Some well-known brands that offer quality RC cars under 200 dollars include Redcat Racing, WLtoys, and Hosim.
  • Type of car: The type of RC car you choose depends on personal preference – some prefer buggies, while others prefer monster trucks or drift cars.
  • Speed: Speed is an important factor to consider in an RC car. Some cars can go as fast as 30-40 mph, while others are more suitable for younger children and operate at slower speeds.
  • Battery Life: An RC car’s battery life is an essential factor to consider when selecting a car. Some cars come with longer battery life, while others need frequent charging or have shorter battery life.
  • Remote Control: A high-quality remote control ensures better handling of the RC car. Look for models with ergonomic design and responsive controls.

One of the best RC cars under 200 dollars is the Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car, which comes with 4-wheel drive, adjustable suspension, and a powerful brushed motor. It has a top speed of 25 mph and a 7.2V NiMH battery with a run time of 20-30 minutes. Another popular option is the Hosim Large Size RC Car, a 1:10 scale car that comes with a range of features, including 4-wheel drive, 40 mph top speed, and shock absorbers for better stability.

Websites such as Amazon, Horizon Hobby, and HobbyKing offer a wide selection of RC cars under 200 dollars. Their product pages include customer reviews and ratings, making it easier to make an informed decision. With a bit of research, you can find an RC car that offers great performance and value for money within your budget.

What is the best car for drift?

There are many cars that can be suitable for drift, but some of the best options include the Mazda MX-5, Nissan Skyline R32, Toyota Soarer, BMW 3 Series (E30), BMW 540i (E39), Toyota Chaser, Jaguar XJ6 Series 1, and Mazda RX-8. These cars are known for their lightweight, RWD drivetrains, and ease of modification, making them popular choices for drift enthusiasts. However, the best car for drifting ultimately comes down to personal preference and driving style.

Conclusion

Choosing the best RC drift car under 200 can be challenging, but considering the necessary factors such as drifting capabilities, motor, scale size, suspension system, and battery life, can make the process a lot easier. The Exceed RC DriftStar is a great option for beginners, with its affordable price, durable construction, and easy-to-use controls. The Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car is perfect for intermediates, thanks to its brushless motor, adjustable suspension, and smooth drifting capabilities. For more advanced enthusiasts, the MST RMX 2.0 S could be an excellent choice with its high-speed drifting and superior handling.

In conclusion, RC drifting is an exciting and fun hobby that offers a lot of opportunities to improve your skills and explore your creativity. Regardless of the model or brand that you select within your budget, make sure to customize the car with better tires, suspension, and motor upgrades to enhance its performance. With the right RC drift car under $200, you can compete against others, show off your drifting skills, and immerse yourself in this unique and thrilling hobby.