7 Best RC Cars Under $200
The radio-controlled cars on this page fall into the $100–$200 category. These are models that leave the toys behind and take enthusiasts up to the next level. RC cars under $200 usually have more of everything compared to cheaper alternatives, but not always. For example, extra power can sometimes result in shorter battery life. And some vehicles need more maintenance than others.
This guide reviews 7 exceptional products available in 2019. They have become favorites in the RC car community for all the right reasons. The ideal model for you depends on personal wants and expectations. The point of these mini-reviews is to help you make better buying decisions. You should have a good idea of what to look for by the end of this short introduction.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| Hosim RC 4WD Monster |
| 4.5/5.0 |
| Scale: 1/10 |
| Playing Time: 10 minutes |
| High-speed, all-terrain capable, fast battery access, excellent value. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Redcat EPX Racing RC Drift Car |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Scale: 1/10 |
| Playing Time: 20 minutes |
| Fast, lightweight chassis, oil filled shocks, adjustable suspension. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| LAEGENDARY 4×4 Off-Roader |
| 4.9/5.0 |
| Scale: 1/10 |
| Playing Time: 30 minutes |
| 2 speed modes, metal frame, oil-filled shocks, rubber tires. |
| Check Amazon |
RC Wants, Needs, and Expectations
You’re unlikely to find the perfect RC car, but it’s possible to get something close to it. It’s a good idea to make a quick checklist of your wants, needs, and expectations.
RC Car Wants
Think of your “wants” as things you would like but are willing to compromise on if necessary. What do you want the model to be capable of? How fast and how far do you want it to go. Do you want to be able to tweak the car and upgrade some of its stock parts? You’re unlikely to check all your wants boxes, but you should achieve most of them and meet others halfway.
RC Car Needs
Your “needs” have no room for compromise. For example, if you want to race on flat surfaces you need a car that can reach a certain speed. You need a minimum torque power and robustness if your hobby is rock crawling. Do you need a vehicle with fully-waterproofed electronics and multi-terrain capable? You get the idea. A simple checklist is the best way to make sure your model meets all your needs.
RC Car Expectations
Your “expectations” are those things which satisfy your wants and meet your needs. You expect a radio-controlled car that lives up to the maker’s promises. That is, you expect it to have the battery life, range, look, feel, and functions outlined on the sales page. A buyer’s expectations usually fall short due to a lack of knowledge or from buying in haste.
Summing Up
The 7-point list below is a simple yet effective approach to buying your next RC car:
- Prepare a draft checklist for buying an RC car and include the following points
- Verify the model’s scale and dimensions (often overlooked by novice buyers)
- Check the build quality, materials, and availability of replacement parts
- Look at the maker’s suggested age range and skill level for the model
- Make sure you’re okay with the playing time on a single charge
- Consider charging times and the cost of extra batteries
- Ensure the control range is far enough for your needs
Use these suggestions above as a rough guide and to get you thinking along the right lines. The final list should be unique to you and may look quite different from your first draft. Your list may also surprise you once you have your priorities down on paper.
About My RC Cars Under $200 Guide
The word “cars” is a broad one in RC terms. It’s often used to describe any model with 4 wheels and more than two seats. That can include Sports and Luxury Cars, Monster Trucks, Buggies, and Rock Crawlers, etc. This guide includes models from all categories. Remember to have the list ready so that you can check your boxes as you read each piece.
The RC products reviewed here are the result of careful research. I used user reviews and the opinions of industry experts as well as personal preferences. The first three models are Best Budget, Best Value, and the Top Pick. The table below shows the RC cars under $200 in the order they appear.
RC Cars Under $200 Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Scale | Playing Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hosim BIG Off-Road RC 4WD Monster Truck | 1/10 | 10 minutes | Check Price |
| Redcat Powerful EPX Racing RC Drift Car | 1/10 | 20 minutes | Check Price |
| LAEGENDARY High-Speed 4×4 Off-Road Monster | 1/10 | 30 minutes | Check Price |
| Protector Fast 4WD All Terrain RC Buggy | 1/12 | 10 minutes | Check Price |
| Exceed RC MadSpeed Le Mans Drift Car | 1/10 | 12 minutes | Check Price |
| Exceed Brushless RC SunFire Race Buggy | 1/10 | Not specified | Check Price |
| Tacon Brushless Soar Buggy RC Car | 1/14 | 10+ minutes | Check Price |
1. Hosim 9125 RC 4WD Monster Truck | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
Our Best Budget RC car goes to the Hosim 4WD Monster Truck. It’s a large 1/10 scale model that sports a bunch of hobby-grade features. Its two speed options are ideal for new users.
- Best feature 1: Double motors
- Best feature 2: All metal sealed ball bearing
- Plus points: High-speed, all-terrain capable, fast battery access, excellent value
- Minus points: Short battery life, long charging time
Hosim 4WD RC Monster Truck Highlights
One of the standout features of the Hosim 9125 RC monster truck is its two independent motors. They provide twice the power of a single-motor design. The top speed is an impressive 30 mph (46km/h) which is incredible for a truck in its class. And the all-metal sealed ball bearing gives users better control over challenging terrains.
The independent shockproof system and real steel chassis shaft structure reduce hard impact. RC monster trucks also need quality wheels to support the sturdy body. The Hosim doesn’t disappoint. There are 4 super-grip, aggressive tread tires on each of the heavy duty, anti-skid wheels. Underneath is the truck’s battery compartment. A simple press removes it for quick swaps and USB charging.
The Not So Good
Powerful trucks need plenty of power and this one’s no different. The running time on a single charge is 10 minutes at best, and recharging takes around 2.5 hours. These are typical times for a model in this category, but that doesn’t make them less frustrating. It needs extra batteries to extend the fun.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: RC Monster Truck |
| Model Scale: 1:10 |
| Dimensions: 17.8 x 12.6 x 6.6” |
| Product Weight: 5.5 lbs. |
| Max Range: 262 ft. (80 meters) |
| Battery: 7.4V 1600mAh |
| Running time: 10 minutes |
| Charging time: 2.5 hours |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Hobby-grade metal components |
| Two speed modes |
| All-terrain capable |
| Double motors |
| Real steel chassis |
| Robust ABS body construction |
| All metal sealed ball bearing |
| High 30 mph top speed |
| Fast battery access |
| Excellent value |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short battery life |
| Longish charging |
2. Redcat EPX Racing RC Drift Car | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
A sleek, RC racing car called the Redcat EPX makes the Best Value slot. This model is a large, ready-to-run (RTR) drift car with a powerful 27T 540 brushed motor.
- Best feature 1: Powerful 27T 540 brushed motor
- Best feature 2: Shaft driven 4WD
- Plus points: Fast, lightweight chassis, oil filled shocks, adjustable suspension
- Minus points: Not easy to handle at lower speeds
Redcat EPX RC Drift Car Highlights
Drift racing is all about sliding smoothly around tight bends while maintaining forward momentum. Proper drift cars must measure up to the above, or they’re a waste of time. This model’s shaft-driven 4WD keeps the vehicle controlled during those impressive drifts. The lightweight chassis ensures the car makes a quick recovery once back on the straights. Top speeds can exceed 20 mph.
RC tinkerers love being able to fine-tune their models. This puppy has an adjustable independent suspension system, and aluminum capped oil-filled shocks. Other noteworthy features include waterproofed electronics, Hexfly steering servo, and an aluminum top brace. Playing time depends on how hard you push the car, but 20 minutes is a reasonable average. Battery charging takes 2+ hours.
The Not So Good
The car can be tricky to control at slower speeds due to its low traction. That’s quite typical for a lot of drift models and can take a while to get used to.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: RC Drift Race Car |
| Model Scale: 1:10 |
| Dimensions: 14.2 x 8 x 4.5” |
| Product Weight: 6 lbs. |
| Max Range: 100 ft. (30 meters) |
| Battery: 7.2V 2000 mAh |
| Running time: 20 minutes |
| Charging time: 2+ hours |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Powerful 27T 540 brushed motor |
| Superb drift control |
| Shaft driven 4WD |
| Fast (for a drift car) |
| Lightweight chassis |
| Oil filled shocks |
| Hexfly steering servo |
| Adjustable suspension |
| Waterproofed electronics |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Hard to handle at slower speeds |
3. LAEGENDARY Powerful 4×4 Off-Road Truck | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
There are good reasons why the Powerful LAEGENDARY 4×4 Off-Road Truck makes the Top Pick. It comes with dual built-in DC motors that add an extra boost to this beast and its capabilities.
- Best feature 1: Dual built-in DC motors
- Best feature 2: Long running time
- Plus points: 2 speed modes, metal frame, oil-filled shocks, rubber tires, ergonomic controller
- Minus points: Too fast for indoors, a two-battery arrangement
Legend Off-Road RC Truck Highlights
The two speed modes are useful in a couple of ways. The LOW speed is ideal for learning and navigating around smaller obstacle courses. The HIGH (fast) speed mode is better for racing and driving around larger areas. The 250 ft., control range gives plenty of scope for adventure courses. This monster can reach a top speed of 30 mph (48 km/h) in ideal conditions.
Powerful Performance, Easy Control
There’s a double battery connector to accommodate two batteries for twice the running time. Players can expect around 30 minutes with this arrangement. That’s impressive with a 1:10 scale model in this category. It’s a stable vehicle across most terrains too. It has a metal enforced frame, oil-filled metal shocks, and heavy-duty wheels with super-grip rubber tires.
The lightweight pistol-grip style ergonomic remote controller makes driving the Legend a joy. It’s as simple as turning the 2.4GHz radio system on and driving off—that’s it. New users don’t have to fuss around managing frequencies or channels either.
The Not So Good
Some monster trucks are suitable for inside as well as outside fun. This one isn’t, not unless you have room for a pony indoors. It’s just too fast for homes, even at the LOW-speed setting.
The 2-battery setup is a brilliant concept though it’s not perfect. The problem is that the extra battery arrangement uses a Velcro strap to hold them in place instead of a door. This setup takes away the truck’s waterproofing. That means it’s only safe to use two batteries when driving in dry conditions.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: RC Monster Truck |
| Model Scale: 1:10 |
| Dimensions: 15 x 12.8 x 8” |
| Product Weight: 2.2 lbs. |
| Max Range: 250 ft. (76 meters) |
| Battery: 2 x 7.4V 1600mAh LiPo |
| Running time: 30 minutes |
| Charging time: 2 hours |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Dual built-in DC motors |
| Double battery connector |
| Long running time |
| Long control range |
| Two speed modes |
| Tough metal frame |
| Oil-filled shocks |
| Rubber tires |
| Lightweight, ergonomic controller |
| Too fast for indoors |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Two-battery arrangement removes waterproofing |
| Too fast for indoor use |
4. Protector Fast 4WD All Terrain RC Buggy
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The Protector with its RC390 brushed motor is one of the coolest looking 4WD RC cars around. The four top-mounted working LED lights and spare wheel add to its appeal as a serious sand rail buggy.
- Best feature 1: Full-scale roll cage
- Best feature 2: Heavy-duty metal diff. /outdrives
- Plus points: Modular chassis, working LED lamps, all-terrain knobby tread tires
- Minus points: Low average playing time, insane charging time
Protector 4WD All Terrain RC Buggy Highlights
Its impressive roll cage is quick to remove for easy access to the solid, modular chassis. An all-metal diff and independent suspension let users thrash and jump the model with confidence. Quality ball bearings and multi-terrain knobby tread tires add further to the model’s appeal. And the front-facing LED lamps are bright enough to let the fun continue after dark.
RC drivers can take the Protector across most terrains like grass, sand, and stones among others. The car’s hobby-grade attraction also includes quick battery access and IPX5 water resistance. Twin 3.7V, 1500 mAh dynamic batteries and easy USB charging are two more. Safeguards include low battery voltage, anti-block, and circuit overheat protections.
The Not So Good
There’s never enough playing time on a single charge with any RC car. It’s the biggest frustration in all radio-controlled models though some are better than others. The short 10 minute maximum run time with the Predator is disappointing. USB charging is easy but the long 4 hour charging time is insane. At least the model includes 2 batteries though new buyers may want more.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: 4WD Off-Road Buggy |
| Model Scale: 1:12 |
| Dimensions: 13.5 x 10 x 6.1” |
| Product Weight: 3.31 lbs. |
| Max Range: 280 ft. (85 meters) |
| Battery: 2 x 3.7V, 1500mAH Li-ion |
| Running time: 10 minutes per charge |
| Charging time: 4 hours |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Upgradable Buggy |
| RC390 brushed motor |
| Full-scale roll cage |
| Heavy-duty metal diff. /outdrives |
| IPX5 water resistance |
| Modular chassis |
| Twin dynamic batteries |
| USB charging |
| Working LED lamps |
| All-terrain knobby tread tires |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Low average run time |
| Insane charging time |
5. Exceed RC MadSpeed Le Mans Drift Car
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Meet the Exceed RC 2.4Ghz MadSpeed Drift King. The car is a 1/10 electric ready-to-run (RTR) Le Mans drift racer. This model has a distinctive centralized low center of gravity (CG) design.
- Best feature 1: Unique low center of gravity (CG) centralized design
- Best feature 2: Metal components
- Plus points: Attention to details, 540 brushed motor, foam bumper, rubber tires
- Minus points: Short battery life, long charging
Exceed RC MadSpeed Drift Car Highlights
Exceed’s RC drift car has a hot wheel-spinning look about it. This is the brushed model and not quite as powerful as the brushless version. That makes it a better car for entry-level users keen to get into drift racing. It’s not a toy, though. The 540 motor provides all the tire-shredding torque and RPMs needed to perform impressive high-speed drift actions.
The MadSpeed Le Mans Drift Car uses metal components in its build. They include a CNC aluminum upper deck, center drive, and motor mount. The model also sports some neat details. Some of the standout ones are the side view mirrors, rear wing, alloy-style wheels, and chrome exhaust. The car also has a foam bumper for added protection and uses quality rubber for the drift tires.
The Not So Good
The running time on a single charge is 12 minutes at best and charging can take at least 2.5 hours. It’s a familiar issue with all these models. It’s always a good idea to factor extra batteries into the cost.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: RC Drift Car |
| Model Scale: 1:10 |
| Dimensions: 17.32” (L) x 7.48” (W) |
| Product Weight: 3.3 lbs. |
| Max Range: Not specified |
| Battery: 7.2V Ni-MH 2000mAh |
| Running time: 12 minutes |
| Charging time: 2.5+ hours |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Excellent entry-level drift racer |
| Low center of gravity design |
| Metal components |
| Attention to details |
| 540 brushed motor |
| Protective foam bumper |
| Rubber drift tires |
| Pistol grip controller |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short battery life |
| Longish charging |
6. Exceed Brushless SunFire RC Race Buggy
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
At #6 is the Exceed SunFire electric-powered RC PRO Race Buggy. The car has a tough polycarbonate shell and sleek racing design. It’s a fast model that’s adjustable and durable.
- Best feature 1: Powerful 3300Kv brushless motor
- Best feature 2: Adjustable parts
- Plus points: Sealed motor & transmission, ground clearance, metal parts, superb brakes
- Minus points: Vague instruction manual, long charging time
Exceed SunFire RC Race Buggy Highlights
This model is an excellent choice for someone upgrading from toy-grade to hobby-grade. Younger kids may fare better with the less powerful Sunfire brushed version. There are plenty of opportunities to tinker with the settings and upgrade the parts for those who want to. There’s a 3-position adjustable rear wing, adjustable aluminum shocks, camber, and toe turnbuckles.
SunFire Performance
A Powerful 3300Kv brushless motor takes this puppy to around 50 mph (80 km/h). The brakes are superb so don’t let the high speed put you off. The buggy has 1.02” ground clearance to keep it safe when racing. Both the motor & transmission are sealed to protect the delicate parts from dirt, dust, and grime. Metal components contribute toward the cars rugged appeal and driver confidence.
The Not So Good
The vague instruction manual is typical of Exceed. Parts reference and the basic instructions are not a problem. But they leave out the kind of specs shoppers want to read about like control range and battery life. Potential buyers must rely on feedback from SunFire owners for some specs. The manual does state charging times. But even they’re vague, ranging anywhere from 2–4 hours.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: Brushless RC Race Buggy |
| Model Scale: 1:10 |
| Dimensions: 15.8 x 9.8 x 6.3” |
| Product Weight: 2 lbs. |
| Max Range: Not specified |
| Battery: 8.4V 3000mAh Ni-MH |
| Running time: Not specified |
| Charging time: 2.5 hours |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Sleek, aerodynamic race design |
| Powerful 3300Kv brushless motor |
| Adjustable parts |
| Sealed motor & transmission |
| Decent ground clearance |
| Metal components |
| Highly responsive brakes |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Vague instruction manual |
| Long charging time |
7. Tacon Brushless Soar Buggy RC Car
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Last on the list is the 1/14 scale RC Tacon Soar Buggy. It’s the ready-to-run (RTR) car to consider if you want something completely different. The colorful, unique design certainly make it stand out.
- Best feature 1: Colorful, unique buggy design
- Best feature 2: 2mm thick aluminum chassis
- Plus points: Metal parts, adjustable, 380 brushless motor, exceptional handling, knobby tires
- Minus points: Poor stock battery, parts availability
Tacon Soar Buggy RC Car Highlights
There are plenty of hobby-grade metal parts used in the Tacon Soar Buggy. It has a 2mm aluminum chassis, anodized aluminum shock towers, and aluminum threaded oil-filled shocks. The car is both upgradable and adjustable—the way RC enthusiasts like things.
The option to adjust the buggy’s behavioral characteristics for different terrains is invaluable. Minor tweaks can take the performance from good to exceptional. Speeds can vary, but the powerful 380 brushless motor and the stock battery should take the car to over 30 mph. Both the power and efficiency should increase exceptionally by upgrading the battery to a 7.4v 1800mah lithium.
The Not So Good
The stock battery is more of a goodwill gesture than anything else. You need to invest in a better battery to release the full potential of this little beast. The makers suggest a Gens Ace 7.4v 1800mah lithium that should cost around $20 or less. It will increase the running time too.
I read a lot about how hard it was to find some parts and upgradable components for this model. That’s only true if your search starts and ends on sites like Amazon. I suggest looking at the NitroRcX official website. Not only do they stock all the spares, but they’re usually cheaper too.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Model type: RC High-Speed Buggy |
| Model Scale: 1:14 |
| Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 4.3 |
| Product Weight: 1.9 lbs. |
| Max Range: 100 ft. (30 meters) |
| Battery: 7.2V 1100mAh NiMH |
| Running time: 10+ minutes (stock battery) |
| Charging time: Not specified |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Colorful, unique buggy design |
| 2mm thick aluminum chassis |
| Metal components |
| Adjustable (fine-tuning) |
| 380 4500KV brushless motor |
| Exceptional handling and aerodynamic performance |
| Knobby tires |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Poor stock battery |
| Parts availability quandary |
Contents
- RC Wants, Needs, and Expectations
- RC Car Wants
- RC Car Needs
- RC Car Expectations
- Summing Up
- About My RC Cars Under $200 Guide
- RC Cars Under $200 Comparison Table
- 1. Hosim 9125 RC 4WD Monster Truck | Best Budget
- Hosim 4WD RC Monster Truck Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 2. Redcat EPX Racing RC Drift Car | Best Value
- Redcat EPX RC Drift Car Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 3. LAEGENDARY Powerful 4×4 Off-Road Truck | Top Pick
- Legend Off-Road RC Truck Highlights
- Powerful Performance, Easy Control
- The Not So Good
- 4. Protector Fast 4WD All Terrain RC Buggy
- Protector 4WD All Terrain RC Buggy Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 5. Exceed RC MadSpeed Le Mans Drift Car
- Exceed RC MadSpeed Drift Car Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 6. Exceed Brushless SunFire RC Race Buggy
- Exceed SunFire RC Race Buggy Highlights
- SunFire Performance
- The Not So Good
- 7. Tacon Brushless Soar Buggy RC Car
- Tacon Soar Buggy RC Car Highlights
- The Not So Good