Best RC Trucks for Little Kids and Teenagers

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 28, 2024
Do you remember a thrill of excitement you felt about remote control vehicles as a child? Feel it all once again by taking control of your own RC truck! These great radio-controlled toys will add fun and excitement to your family recreation and become a start of a new hobby for both you and your kids. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
RECOMMENDED AGE
ENGINE TYPE
POWER SOURCE AND SPEED
TRUCK TYPE
TERRAIN TYPE
MODEL SCALE
CONTROL
WARRANTY
 
PROS

Reaching the maximum speed of 30 miles/hour, the Traxxas monster truck will give you the feel of a real cross country racing. Owing to the Revo®-Spec Torque-Control™ slipper clutch and Revo-spec Talon™ tires, this monster truck easily maneuvers and jumps over the hurdles. A Training mode is supported.

CONS

For charging from the outlet, an extra adapter is required 

OUR VERDICT

It's a realistic offroader that will keep you and your kids engaged for hours! Thanks to a special engine cooling system, the truck can run for about 30 minutes which is ample for a full-scale fascinating adventure. The bright eye-catching design of the truck will come to liking to your kid and will attract the attention of bystanders. Black, blue, pink, red, silver and multi-color schemes are available. 

detailed parameters
RECOMMENDED AGE

14+

ENGINE TYPE

Electric 

POWER SOURCE AND SPEED

7.4 V 5800 mAh NiMH battery 

30+ miles/hour

TRUCK TYPE

Monster truck 

TERRAIN TYPE

All terrain types, including snow, Slush, Water, Mud, and Rocks 

MODEL SCALE

1/10

CONTROL

TQ 2.4 GHz radio system with a 3-channel transmitter

WARRANTY

30 days 

Manufacturer's lifetime warranty subject to warranty rate payment 

PROS

The use of a lightweight plastic truck chassis significantly reduces the risk of tipping over. In case of a heavy crash, the truck is easy to repair, seeing that all its parts are replaceable. 

CONS

The wheel screws get flimsy after numerous "jumps". 

OUR VERDICT

The Redcat RC truck is an excellent option for off-road racing. It will easily drive through any terrain, be it a range of hills, rocky area or slushy road. As all electronic components are waterproof, neither drizzling rain nor snow will stop you from going outdoors to ride your four-wheeler. 

detailed parameters
RECOMMENDED AGE

14+

ENGINE TYPE

Electric 

POWER SOURCE AND SPEED

7.2v 2000mAh NiMh battery 

max 20 miles/hour

TRUCK TYPE

Monster truck 

TERRAIN TYPE

All terrain types including snow, Slush, and Mud

MODEL SCALE

1/10

CONTROL

2.4GHz radio system

WARRANTY

90 days

PROS

A fully-functional rear bucket can move up and down, adding to the realism of rides. Let your kids load it with toys or even sand, allowing them to experience what it feels like to be a driver of a heavy-duty truck.  

CONS

Loud sounds drain the battery.  

OUR VERDICT

Designed to be used right out-of-the-box, this awesome RC dump truck will bring tons of positive emotions and fun to kids over 3 years+. The truck is exceptionally agile, mobile and responsive to controls. Your little child will absolutely fall in love with realistic sound and light effects.

detailed parameters
RECOMMENDED AGE

3+

ENGINE TYPE

Electric 

POWER SOURCE AND SPEED

LiPo rechargeable battery

TRUCK TYPE

Dump truck

TERRAIN TYPE

Indoor use, Outdoor use on smooth surfaces, Sandbox, Gravel, Grass

MODEL SCALE

1/45

CONTROL

49 MHz remote control 

WARRANTY

30 days 

PROS

Can be charged from any USB-enabled device or a wall charger. The blinking of the headlights will tell you when the truck is fully charged and can be put on a road.

CONS

Control buttons might seem a bit too tight at the beginning. 

OUR VERDICT

Looking incredibly beautiful and realistic, this truck will keep your kids amused for hours. Working siren, horn, and shifting sounds, alongside a refined design with elaborate details, will appeal to children of different ages. Paired with a high-responsive controller, the truck is incredibly maneuverable and easy-to-control. 

detailed parameters
RECOMMENDED AGE

3+

ENGINE TYPE

Electric 

POWER SOURCE AND SPEED

Built-in USB rechargeable battery 

TRUCK TYPE

Fire engine truck 

TERRAIN TYPE

Indoor or outdoor use on smooth surfaces with some irregularities 

MODEL SCALE

Dimensions: 14.7" x 7.8" x 7"

CONTROL

2.4 GHz technology 

WARRANTY

90 days 

PROS

The use of standard AAA batteries saves the need of charging the truck. Unpack the toy, insert the batteries and off you go. Simple as that!

CONS

Compared to other RC trucks, the controllable range is rather small.

OUR VERDICT

If your kids are into cars, they will be delighted to get this awesome replica of a real vehicle. Besides realistic design, you will also appreciate its excellent performance and will start to spend more time with your child outdoors.

detailed parameters
RECOMMENDED AGE

3+

ENGINE TYPE

Semi electric 

POWER SOURCE AND SPEED

4 Rechargeable AAA batteries

TRUCK TYPE

Tanker trailer 

TERRAIN TYPE

Smooth surface 

MODEL SCALE

1/36

CONTROL

27 MHz remote control

WARRANTY

30 days 

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Traxxas Remote Control Monster Truck

Powerful Monster Truck For Any Tracks

Would you like to experience exciting rides on intricate tracks and bendy roads? In that case, you need to get yourself the Traxxas Remote Control Monster Truck. This high-speed (up to 30 mph), waterproof offroader with ultra-rigid suspension and enormous ground clearance will ride in places where you wouldn't think is possible to ride. Put it on a road and watch how swiftly it can drive through muddy tracks, soil, puddles and go up and down hills. What's more, thanks to the cooling fan installed inside the vehicle, the riding will also last considerably longer if compared to other RC trucks that come without a fan. 

The performance characteristics of the truck have been enhanced thanks to the implementation of the advanced Revo® technology and the use of the strengthened transmission with Revo®-Spec Torque-Control ™ slipper clutch and efficient ball bearings. Meanwhile, the unique  Revo-spec Talon ™ 2.8” tires add to the stable behavior of the vehicle on a road, improving its skid resistance. The mirror-chrome Bold All-Star™ wheels not only look reliable, they have demonstrated excellent rough-terrain performance, bypassing raised obstacles, while maintaining the balance. 

Review of Traxxas Remote Control Monster Truck

Easy to Control and Easy to Race!

The Traxxas RC truck features a sophisticated TQ™ 2.4GHz radio system that you enable by simply turning the vehicle on. No more settings to configure! The truck comes complete with a remote controller that looks more like a joystick and fits comfortably in hand of any size. That the antenna is sealed inside the unit makes it less prone to breaks and damage.  

The biggest advantage of the Traxxas radio control system, however, is that it also supports a training mode, allowing novice drivers to ride the truck at the reduced power so they can learn how to control the vehicle before taking participation in a real race. With that said, this truck by Traxxas will suit users of all levels and with different driving skills, including beginning drivers. 

Traxxas Remote Control Monster Truck in the use

For a Long-lasting Journey

The Traxxas Monster Truck is powered by Ni-MH rechargeable battery which provides an impressively long run time. Besides high capacity, this type of batteries comes equipped with an iD that allows the iD charger to automatically identify the level of battery charge and timely recharge it. The green LED light will start blinking once the charging begins and will stay on when the truck's fully charged and ready to go. 

Detailed review of Traxxas Remote Control Monster Truck

Enjoy Water Racing

One more activity that both adults and kids find amusing is setting RC boats afloat. So, if you often go to the sea with your family, you may want to take one with you and enjoy new but exciting recreation.  

Traxxas Remote Control Monster Truck application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B0192Y8GG4

 

Redcat Racing Remote Control Truck

Conquer Any Terrains With the Volcano EXP

An adrenaline explosion, a thrilling adventure and a super fast terrain ripping ride are all about the Volcano EPX! A powerful electric brushed 27T 540 motor can speed the vehicle up to 20 mph, allowing it to bypass intricate obstacles, meet different challenges and jump off all kinds of ramps. Besides, this truck comes completely assembled and ready-to-use out-of-the-box, so you don't need to build it from scratch or shop for more electronic components additionally. 

Casting a look at the truck, you will be attracted to its aggressive black and red design and huge wheels. Yet, it isn't bulky, thanks to the lightweight construction made of plastic and aluminum. 

Owing to the fact that the Volcano EPX is fitted with waterproof electronics, it is suitable both for indoor and outdoor use. Protected against moisture, the vehicle will ride through the mud, puddles and over many other surfaces, giving you the real feel of excitement and entertainment. Even if you happen to lose control of the truck and it crashes into some really hard obstacle, you will be able to replace all of its parts since they are all 100% replaceable and can be ordered from any specialized store. 

The Volcano EPX isn't a toy for little kids, though. Being a hobby-grade model, it will best suit kids of the age of 14 years and older. If you've got a younger kid, you could get him/her a slot car so he/she could practice riding a small car while your elder son or daughter would keep rolling a real monster truck. 

Review of Redcat Racing Remote Control Truck

Precise Radio Control

Given the precise control and responsiveness of the included remote joystick-style radio control, riding a truck is a sheer pleasure. The operating range of the controller makers 100 yards and it's possible to run up to 10 wheelers within this area without signal drops. The fact that the radio control technology implemented in this RC truck has been approved by the Federal Communications Commission speaks for itself. 

The controller itself is ergonomic with a non-slip grip. You only need to insert 8 AA batteries to enable the truck. 

Redcat Racing Remote Control Truck in the use

Safety is the Prime Priority

The Volcano EPX is a hobby-grade vehicle that requires certain driving skills and caution while riding. With that said, you should remember and follow certain safety rules:

  1. Never turn the vehicle on before enabling a remote control. 
  2. If used with an inappropriate charger, there's always a risk that the battery may overheat or even explode. Use only the charger included in the set or other similar chargers compatible with this type of battery.
  3. Charge the battery at a safe distance from inflammable materials. 
  4. Beware of burns! Batteries, an electronic speed controller, and some other elements can get very hot during operation. 
  5. Avoid touching them after driving and let them cool. 
  6. Never drive your RC truck on roads and highways. You may not only lose your model truck but also damage other vehicles or even cause accidents. This model is meant only for outdoor use. 
Detailed review of Redcat Racing Remote Control Truck

Four-wheel Drive

4-wheel drive ensures better traction and maneuverability as well as allows more accurate control of the vehicle. Climb rocks, kick-up mud or navigate through the toughest spots. With the Volcano EPX, nothing will stop you!

Redcat Racing Remote Control Truck application
Last updated price $169.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00HVBVNVG

 

Top Race Remote Control Dump Truck

Much More Than a Humble Toy

Probably, there's no other toy that kids of all ages love as much as an RC toy. They bring joy and delight children, keeping them engaged and amused for hours. If your son or daughter is only about 3 years old, you can still make him/her a present and get this fantastic Top Race Yellow RC truck. The vehicle runs forward, backward, makes turns and moves the rear bucket up and down. All this is completed with realistic light and sound effects, including signals, load and unload sounds, as well as a welcoming voice encouraging a child to start to play. Made of durable plastic, the Top Race Yellow RC wheeler can be used both indoors and outdoors. Great characteristics for a toy vehicle!

Review of Top Race Remote Control Dump Truck

A Real Construction Site At the Back Yard

What you will like about the Top Race dump truck is that it isn't going to interfere with other radio-controlled toys brought within the same area due to the nonstandard operating frequency of 49 MHz. So, your child will be able to invite his/her friends over and set up a real construction site in your back yard.   

That the TR-112 can operate seamlessly with other RC toys running in the same area makes it possible for elder children to play together with their little brothers and sisters, riding RC monster trucks of a hobby-grade class.  

The Top Race dump truck comes assembled. All you need is to leave it on charge for around 30 minutes and your kid will be able to play with it for about 12-15 minutes. 

Top Race Remote Control Dump Truck in the use

Simple and Handy Controller

Designed for the use of the children, the truck is made of a durable plastic to withstand active play, offers intuitive controls and features a whole load of beautiful sound and light effects that make rides much more fascinating and entertaining for all little drivers. 

Insert 3 AA batteries into the controller and off you go. Your little one will quickly get the hang of the controller. 

Detailed review of Top Race Remote Control Dump Truck

Light Effects

The headlights and the blinking light from the driver's compartment add to the realistic design of the truck, making it more attractive for little kids. 

Top Race Remote Control Dump Truck application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $39.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00W65VFME

 

KidiRace Remote Control Fire Engine Truck

Getting Wrapped up In the Play

All kids love copying adults. Why not give them a scaled model of a real fire truck? Featuring working siren, horn, shifting sounds and flashing lights, the Kidirace RC fire engine truck will come to liking to both girls and boys of the age of 3+. 

The truck looks fantastic thanks to the realistic design with attention to details. Soft yet rugged rubber tires perfectly match the bright red glossy plastic body of the truck. The performance characteristics are also great taking into consideration that this vehicle's designed for little children. The truck runs smoothly and seamlessly on any flat terrain both indoors and outdoors. The realistic sound and light effects enhance the game, keeping young firemen amused and engaged for hours. The Kidirace RC fire engine truck comes complete with all bits and pieces that you'd need to put it on a road out-of-the-box. Unpack the box and rush to “fight a fire” with your little one!

Even though the Kidirace truck looks very much like a scaled model, it's still a toy. If you want to get something that will look more like a real vehicle, we'd like to offer you to take a look at our review of the car model kits and pick a kit to build up a copy of a car from scratch yourself. 

Review of KidiRace Remote Control Fire Engine Truck

Fun to Drive, Easy and Safe to Control

Controlling the Kidirace truck is easy even for a child. The kid-friendly controller is ergonomic, convenient and highly responsive. All buttons are conveniently arranged so your kid can easily access them when competing with his/her friends in a race. Non-slip wheel tires provide an excellent road traction. When put on a smooth and flat surface, the Kidirace truck could even rotate by 360°, making one or two full circles. 

For a quick and hassle-free charging of the truck, the supply kit includes a USB charger and a socket adapter. Once fully charged, this RC vehicle offers up to 30 minutes of driving time! 

It’s notable that the Kidirace RC truck is made in keeping with all safety standards and regulations for consumer products (CPSIA и ASTM F963). This is to ensure that there are no hazards or small parts that can cause accidents and injure your kid. 

KidiRace Remote Control Fire Engine Truck in the use

Several Simple Rules

Though the Kidirace RC fire engine truck is extremely easy-to-use and the controls are all very straightforward, there are still certain rules that ought to be followed to drive a radio controlled vehicle safely:

  1. “Start the engine” and turn the sound signals on (you can choose the sound signal to your liking or turn it off) by means of a left-hand control knob. 
  2. The left-hand joystick is designed for running the truck forward and backward.
  3. Using the right-hand joystick, you can turn the vehicle in different directions. 
  4. Two buttons on the top are used to control sound effects.

Keep in mind, in this model, the speed is not adjustable and the vehicle runs rather fast. The smoother the surface is the faster your fire engine will run.

Detailed review of KidiRace Remote Control Fire Engine Truck

Play With Friends

The latest 2.4 GHz remote technology delivers stable radio connection and signal that allow you to race up to 6 vehicles in the same area and compete with your friends without losing control of your truck.  

KidiRace Remote Control Fire Engine Truck application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01K86R7LK

 

Velocity Toys Remote Control Semi Truck

A Big Truck for A Big Game

This huge powerful RC semi-truck from Velocity Toys will appeal to all fans of RC vehicles, including adults. Featuring a modern, sophisticated design, this truck looks like a real thing where all parts look identical to a full-size vehicle. The LED headlights start flashing once the vehicle makes a move. Ten wheels with bright red disks and rubber grip tires add a special touch to the eye-catching realistic design of the heavy-duty semi-truck. This full cargo trailer will immediately pique your kid’s curiosity and interest. 

This model is perfect for playing indoors. Though it is rather big (18.5” x 4” x 4”), it is extremely lightweight and easy to carry around. Your child will quickly learn how to control the vehicle and will play with it for many long hours, giving you more time to yourself.  

Review of Velocity Toys Remote Control Semi Truck

Unpack and Play

The Velocity Toys tanker trailer comes with everything your child needs to start using it immediately. In the set, you will find 4 rechargeable AAA batteries for the truck and 2 more AA batteries for the controller. The option to use standard single-use batteries instead of rechargeable ones can extend the time of a race.

Velocity Toys Remote Control Semi Truck in the use

What are the Advantages of Playing With RC Toys?

Not only are RC vehicles entertaining, they can also be used to educate kids, teach them how to control a vehicle, improve their spatial awareness as well as develop psychomotor and cognitive skills. RC toys don't bore kids and remain their favorite toys for a long time. A truck with simple controls can get to your little one and become a start for his/her serious hobby in the future. 

Detailed review of Velocity Toys Remote Control Semi Truck

Another Surprising Gift For Your Kiddie

If you are looking for a smart toy to impress and delight your little one, opt for a toy robot. Kids of all ages love playing with toys that not only look cool but can actually communicate and interact with a human being. Proceed to read our review where we've selected some of the most intelligent toys for kids as of today.  

Velocity Toys Remote Control Semi Truck application
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00HZ1JBES

 

Infographics

Comparison of RC Trucks for Little Kids and Teenagers

What is an RC Truck

RC trucks aren’t simple toys. Designed for kids of 10 years and older, these radio-controlled vehicles can go through different hurdles, overcoming numerous obstacles, just like real cars. Among a variety of RC vehicles, there are those that can be bought for kids of the age of 3+ and those that suit youngsters better. The majority of RC trucks not only look spectacular, featuring realistic design and many beautiful visual effects but also deliver fascinating riding performance. You will not be able to refuse your child to go outdoors and drive your new toy together, watching it ride over different types of terrain, rocky areas, and curbs. Even though you might find it somewhat difficult to control the truck at first, once you hone your driving skills, you’ll be attracted to the toy for many many weeks, months, and possibly even for years, seeing that RC vehicles have been for a long time now a serious hobby for a lot of people.

If you are into technological novelties and RC vehicles is your hobby, you can enlarge your collection with RC drift cars or RC helicopters, each offering their own benefits.

What Features to Compare

Recommended age

Before choosing an RC truck, especially if you buy one as a gift for a kid, check the recommended age of a user. The models that have been designed for kids of 12+ years will not suit children of the age of 3 and vice versa. Not only will they be unfit for their use, they will actually bear a potential hazard to the safety, given the size of these vehicles and the speed they can gather. If you choose an RC truck for your little one who’s recently reached 3 years of age, pick a toy that offers simple controls and has a visually-appealing design. 

Engine type and Power source

There are two types of RC trucks you can choose from: with gas engines and with electric motors. The majority of contemporary models are electric vehicles. Powered by either rechargeable battery or standard type single-use batteries, they are pretty speedy, mobile and easy-to-control. Gas engine radio-controlled trucks look more like real trucks and just like real vehicles, they require proper maintenance and regular fueling. The controls of this type of trucks are also much more intricate. Understandably, if you seek an RC toy for a teen of 8-10 years of age, it'd be more sensible to choose an electric model, while if you're on the lookout for a new model to add to your own collection, you could opt for the one with a gas engine. 

Model scale, Truck type, and Terrain type 

Hobby-grade RC trucks are mainly the models for off-road racing. Usually, they are quite big and can reach the size of a 1/10 scale. Off-road conditions, however, can differ. Some vehicles can run up and down hills, riding over dirt, mud and slushy terrains, while for others even a small hill can become an obstacle. Therefore, we recommend you to take a look at what types of terrain the chosen vehicle can be used for, making sure it will suit your floors and surrounding areas. 

Most of the RC toy-style cars and trucks are designed for indoor use; they can easily ride over simple obstacles such as low doorsteps, carpet edges. If you look for a more powerful toy, shoot for those models that can be used outdoors and generate ample power to suffice to drive through sand, gravel, and ground. 

RC offroaders are called monster trucks. Distinguished by oversized wheels, full travel suspension, and high ground clearance, these trucks can ride through almost all types of terrains, including mud and dirt. 

Controls

RC vehicles are controlled via a transmitter where the operation frequency may vary, starting from 27 MHz to 2.4 GHz. 

Another thing you may want to consider is whether it's possible to ride several RC wheelers within the same area, which is especially important for those consumers who have two or more kids, all longing for their own radio-controlled truck. 

FAQ:

Q: Is there any difference between terms “radio control” and “remote control”?

A: Technically, genuine remote control models are connected to a transmitter via a cable, through which the signal is passed, while radio controlled units are controlled by radio signals from a separate transmitter. However, today, these two terms are used as interchangeable in relation to RC vehicles.

Q: What is better, electric or gas RC trucks?

A: GAS or nitro models used to be faster and boast longer run time. Today, though, thanks to the use of the LiPo batteries and super powerful electric motors, electric trucks have become much faster. Besides, electric vehicles are also more eco-friendly, easier to control and maintain and quieter. Electric models are a perfect option for beginners and kids. However, if you are an experienced RC truck driver and hobbyist, you will love the realism of the sound and noise of nitro models.

Q: Where can I run my RC truck?

A: Since RC trucks can drive on pavements, gravel, dirt, all types of ground and even grass open fields, vacant lots, construction yards and other types of places are perfect for running or racing your RC trucks. Just don’t forget to ask for permission if the area is a private property. You can run your truck alone or hold a real race with other owners of RC cars and trucks.

Q: How to get started with RC racing?

A: There are numerous local, regional, and even national clubs where RC hobbyist can arrange races. You are very likely to find several tracks in your neighborhood. Join the race, tune your wheeler and ride for victory.  

Q: What are the benefits of RC cars and trucks for children?

A: Remote control trucks and cars are not only a source of amusement for kids but also a source of education since children master a lot of new skills while assembling and playing with these toys. Bringing joy and delight to kids, radio controlled toys enhance their fine motor skills, develop hand to eye coordination and creativity,  promote outdoor play and improve their social relations with other children. 

Q: Can I build my own RC truck?

A: Considering how many models are available on the modern market, there are many of those that require assembling from scratch. If you've got some engineering or mechanical skills, you can definitely shoot for one of these models and build a truck of your dream. For novice drivers, though, we'd recommend sticking to more simple models that come already assembled and ready-to-use out-of-the-box. 

Sources:

1. Terry Dunn The Risks of Buying A Cheap RC Truck Tested. March 1, 2017.

2. How to Choose a Great Radio Control Toy, eBay. March 3, 2016.

3. What are Radio Control (RC) Cars? HPI Racing.

4. Radio-controlled car, Wikipedia. April 4, 2017.

5. The (almost) COMPLETE Guide to Electric RC Cars, Instructables.

6. Lee Burns Top 3 Benefits of Gifting Your Kid an RC Truck, RC Model Shop. February 23, 2016.

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