Ultimate Micro RC Cars Guide

With our selection of the best-rated micro RC cars, from drifters to rock crawlers, we’re proving that bigger isn’t always better.

• Micro RC car selection
• Our winners
• Benefits of micro RC cars
• What scale are micro RC cars?
• Are micro RC cars better than 1:10 scale?

In a hurry? Here are our best Micro RC Cars

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Best micro RC cars

We’ve searched far and wide to bring you the ultimate selection of RC cars on the market.

If you’d like to know whether a micro RC car will suit your needs, head to the menu options at the top of the page.

Our list begins with the best cars before checking out popular trucks for those interested in off-road options. Let’s get started!

Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

• Manufacturer: Kyosho
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: Unique (Length: 167.5mm, Width: 70mm, Height: 50mm)
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase links:
  Subaru Impreza WRC Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Nissan Fairlady 240Z Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Mazda Savannah RX-7 FC3S Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec R33 Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Subaru Impreza STi 22B Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Toyota Corolla AE86 Sprinter Trueno Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Toyota Corolla AE86 Levin Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z |
  Toyota Yaris GR Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z

Our comment: Kyosho’s MA-020 Mini-Z is arguably the most popular micro RC platform on the market, and it’s easy to see why.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy with a massive selection of bodyshells available, from Supras to Skylines and AE86s.

Although it uses the AWD platform, this is common for drift RC cars, and they come pre-fitted with drift tires as standard.

One of the main benefits of the Mini-Z chassis is its wide selection of spares and upgrades available, whether you’re looking to replace broken parts or upgrade it to its full potential.

It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for those looking for a perfect introduction to RC cars, look no further.

Manufacturer description: “The Kyosho MA-020 Mini-Z AWD ReadySet chassis features VCS (variable camber suspension) on the front that optimizes camber change with suspension stroke and a specially designed circuit board“.

“The MINI-Z AWD promises a unique world of dramatic racing action for you to experience and enjoy“.

Features

• MINI-Z AWD Readyset based on MA-020 chassis.
• Special circuit board updated with optimized steering control program.
• Chassis features gyro sensitivity adjustment function.
• Drift tires are installed as standard.
• Readyset requires only batteries to be ready for action!
• Features 2.4GHz Syncro KT-531P transmitter that requires no setup of frequency bands.
• Factory completed body comes with display model quality finish.
• Features VCS (variable camber suspension) that adjusts camber in accordance with suspension stroke.
• Coil spring on front suspension can be easily replaced without tools.
• Wide range of optional parts is available to be installed.

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Carisma GT24 1/24 Scale Brushless Rally Car

• Manufacturer: Carisma
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1:24
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Carisma GT24 1/24 Scale Brushless Rally Car

Our comment: For the rally fans, the Carisma GT24 provides the perfect opportunity for off-roading adventures with an impressively fast 8,000kv brushless motor.

Carisma has worked with the FIA World Rally Championship to offer the ultimate rally package, which includes both the Subaru Impreza WRC and Hyundai i20 WRC models.

Although the stock package comes with a NiMH battery, GT24 owners have reported that the upgraded LiPO battery tripled their cars’ speed while also improving runtime. Although the battery upgrade is extremely reasonable, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of upgrading to a LiPo charger.

With impressive off-road capabilities, the Carisma GT24 is the perfect introduction to RC rallying.

Manufacturer description: “The Carisma GT24 Subaru WRC 1/24 RTR Micro 4WD Brushless Rally Car takes 1/24 Rally to the next level of performance and scale realism“.

“With brushless power as standard, and features like 2.4Ghz radio gear, a fast and responsive hobby grade steering servo, Rally Pin tires, and a fully ball bearing-equipped 4WD transmission, these cars not only look the part, they perform way beyond most perceptions of 1/24 Scale RC vehicles“.

“Now you can create your own special stage in the living room or turn your backyard into a complete WRC championship! ”

Features

• KD PROPO CTX-2000 2.4GHz Transmitter
• MRS-24BL 2-in-1 RX/ESC (Brushless)
• 8000kv Brushless motor
• 7.2V 130mAh NiMH Micro Stick Pack with JST Plug Included
• Low-Maintenance Friction Dampers
• High Traction Rally Mini Pin Tires
• 4 x AA batteries for TX Included
• 5v USB Charger Included
• Hobby Grade Steering Servo
• Officially Licensed Body
• Full Ball Bearings

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Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Drift Car

• Manufacturer: Wltoys
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1:28
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link:  Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Drift Car

Our comment: Ken Block’s Hoonigan Gymkhana Ford Fiesta heavily inspires Wltoys’ K989, and this incredibly priced budget option has taken the micro RC car world by storm.

If you’re looking for a simple, cheap option capable of AWD drifting, high speeds, and perfect for navigating your custom Gymkhana layout, look no further.

Several models are available, with our recommended choice providing 3x batteries for the ultimate run-time.  However, you can also opt to save a little by opting for the cheaper 2x battery option or the cheapest option, which comes with just one battery. It’s worth checking the prices to see which works out cheapest – you might end up bagging a bargain if there’s a deal available!

Capable of speeds up to 30km/h, this will surely provide the ultimate bang-for-your-buck enjoyment.

Manufacturer description: “High-speed 130 Brushed Motor: This 1/28 rc car is equipped with a powerful brushed motor with a maximum speed of 30 km/h.”

“The whole chassis of the remote control car is made of alloy material gives the truck a better collision resistance to prolong its life span.”

Features

• 1:28 Scale RTR Version
• 2.4G Radio Control
• Able to support multiple cars racing at the same time
• Capable of speeds up to 30km/h
• 7.4V 400mAh Li-Po Battery
• Alloy chassis
• Shock absorbers

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Team Associated NanoSport Puck Cars

• Manufacturer: Team Associated
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1:32
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Team Associated NanoSport Puck Cars

Our comment: The Team Associated NanoSport Puck Cars bring something a little different to our list.

For those looking for the ultimate fun from your micro RC cars, this fun hockey puck soccer goal-scoring style game is a unique offering to the market.

The cars are designed for the included pucks (or balls), and you’ll face your opponent in a goal-scoring showdown.

The package includes two cars, offering excellent value for money and perfect party entertainment.

Think Rocket League combined with hockey and micro RC cars. What more could you possibly want?

Manufacturer description: “If you are a fan of soccer or hockey then you’ll want to check out this interactive, strategic, skill-based sport set“.

“The front of each car has been molded to control the included puck or ball, allowing the players to maneuver and push towards the desired target. Challengers strategically battle for possession of the ball or puck, while aggressively bashing and smashing into their opponent’s cars“.

Features

• Rechargeable batteries
• Adjustable throttle dual rate for speed management
• Assortment of optional accessories (Optional accessories sold separately)
• Radio controlled NanoSport cars can be driven with precision at high speeds
• Cars are recharged with charging cord from the transmitter/radio
• Perfect for both beginner and advanced players
• Enjoy the action of fast, fun and adrenaline head-to-head soccer and hockey games
• Players are challenged to master team work, coordination, experimentation, and to overcome obstacles in this fast-paced game
• Everything included. Simply charge and drive!

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RJ Speed R/C Legends Spec Sedan Kit

• Manufacturer: RJ Speed
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: Unique (Length: 15″(380mm), Width: 8 1/2″(216mm), Height: 5 1/2″(140mm)
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: RJ Speed R/C Legends Spec Sedan Kit

Our comment: Whether you’re a Legends fan or looking to inspire your kids to pursue a NASCAR career, this could be the perfect introduction to the hugely popular Legends racing.

Unlike most of the RTR (ready-to-run) kits in our collection, this requires the 540-size motor and ESC, 4-cell stick battery pack, and 2-channel radio control with one servo to be purchased separately, which will need to be considered.

Manufacturer description: “The RJ Speed R/C Legends Spec Coupe Kit is a complete unassembled kit, less electronics.”

“The kit includes all chassis parts, tires, gears, linkage, and clear coupe body with window masks and protective film.”

Features

• Chassis: Fiberglass side plates and battery tray
• Drive: rear wheel drive (spur and pinion pan car type)
• Brass bushings for front wheels and rear axle
• Differential: Ball differential with steel axle
• Spur Gear: 48 pitch 81 tooth, black nylon
• Tires: John’s BSR brand Spec Foams (silver dot front and green dot rears) mounted on black wheels (tires have a yellow foam stripe to identify them as legal for spec racing
• Pinion Gear: 48-pitch, 21-tooth steel construction
• Steering Tie Rods: Adjustable

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Losi Mini-T 2.0

• Manufacturer: Losi
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1:18
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Losi Mini-T 2.0

Our comment: Building upon the hugely popular Mini-T series, the Mini-T 2.0 brings a powerful brushless 2-in-1 motor/ESC configuration, which mirrors 1:10 scale cars.

The powerful motor is accompanied by the TLR 22 platform suspension, which puts Losi’s years of knowledge at the top of the RC game to good use.

With a mid-motor layout, this provides the perfect balance for supreme handling and an incredible all-around package for those looking to head off-road with their mini RC vehicle.

Manufacturer description: “The Losi Mini-T 2.0 1/18 RTR 2WD Brushless Stadium Truck has been reinvented with modern technology and Team Losi Racing engineering“.

“This 1/18th-scale Brushless 2WD Truck honors the heritage of the original Mini-T with a range of updated features to spring it into the future“.

Features

• Scaled Down Version of the 1/10th 22T
• Brushless 2-in-1 motor/ESC configuration
• Mid-motor Configuration
• Fully assembled and ready to run
• 2.4Ghz radio system
• Dynamite 7.4V 2S 800mAh 50C LiPo Battery
• Full Ball Bearings (less steering)
• Servo Saver
• Waterproof electronics
• 22 Suspension Geometry
• Option Parts Availability

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Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler

• Manufacturer: Axial
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1:24
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link:
  Dodge Power Wagon Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler |
  Jeep Wrangler Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler |
  Jeep Gladiator Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler |
  1967 Chevrolet C10 Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler |
  XC-1 4WS (4-Wheel Steering) Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler

Our comment: The Axial SCX24 provides exceptional value for money for those considering going down the crawler route.

Featuring impressive 3-link front and 4-link rear suspension, this mini RC crawler can take on the toughest challenges, and you’ll undoubtedly have heaps of fun testing its limits.

Whether you’re looking to make an obstacle course at home, in the garden, or somewhere out on the trails, we have no doubt this tiny RC crawler will surpass your expectations when climbing over the unthinkable.

Manufacturer description: “Despite being scaled down to a compact size, this mini crawler is ready for some big adventures.”

“Full-time 4WD and a 3-link front/4-link rear suspension let you muscle over big challenges. Worm gears on the axles increase ground clearance, while realistic steel frame rails stand up to hard knocks. The Axial SCX24 Jeep Wrangler JLU CRC performs like a winner and looks like one, too. The realistic body rides on licensed KMC Machete wheels and Nitto Trail Grappler tires.”

Features

• Dynamite 88T Brushed Electric Motor.
• Spektrum 350mAh LiPo battery and USB charger.
• Spektrum SLT2 2.4GHz radio system.
• Pro-Line Interco Super Swamper tires.
• Pro-Line Impulse Bead-Loc wheels.
• Oil-filled shocks.
• Licensed wheels are modeled after 1:1 KMC Machete Wheels.
• Licensed tires are modeled after 1:1 Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires.
• 3-link front and 4-link rear suspensions provide optimal handling.

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Traxxas Slash 4x4 Short Course Truck

• Manufacturer: Traxxas
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1:16
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Traxxas Slash 4x4 Short Course Truck

Our comment: Another unique offering for trophy truck fans. This kit uses a 12-Turn 550 modified motor, producing consistent torque and high speeds alongside impressive cooling technology when you can’t bring yourself to put it down.

The Revo-Spec suspension, alongside Oil-Filled GTR shocks, provides the ultimate handling and suspension travel. Combined with the all-terrain tires and wheels, the Traxxas Slash is capable of going just about anywhere.

Manufacturer description: “The Traxxas Slash set the standard for short-course fun and versatility, then the Slash 4X4 raised the bar on short-course performance with category-making speed, power, and track-ready handling“.

“Now you can experience the fun of wheel-to-wheel Slash 4X4 racing 1/16 scale with high-torque Titan 550 power–the largest motor in the “mini” class by far“!

“Beneath the Race Replica polycarbonate shell, you’ll find the winning suspension technology of the eight-time National Champion Traxxas Revo and the convention-busting innovation of the E-Revo.”

Features

• High-torque Titan 12T 550 motor
• XL-2.5 Electronic Speed Control
• Revo-Spec Suspension
• Oil-Filled GTR Shocks
• All-Terrain Tires & Wheels
• Race Replica Painted Bodies
• Precision 2.4GHz Control
• Traxxas High-Current Connectors
• Ball-Bearing Transmission With Torque Control Slipper Clutch
• Full-Time 4WD With Sealed, Silicone-Filled Differentials
• Pivot Ball Suspension
• Universal-Joint Driveshafts
• Waterproof Electronics

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Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck

• Manufacturer: Traxxas
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1:16
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck

Our comment: If you’re looking for the ultimate off-road micro RC choice, then the E-Revo VXL will be the perfect pick, but it’s also reflected in its price tag – the most expensive on our list. However, many owners will tell you it’s worth every cent.

The E-Revo VXL isn’t the kind of truck you use in your basement, as you’ll want to unleash its full potential – leading to incredible speeds of up to 50mph!

It combines the capabilities of a full-scale RC truck with the features of a micro RC package, and it can upset its bigger rivals both on and off-road.

With so much power that it’s capable of flipping upon acceleration, it’s sure to put your skills to the test—an incredible choice for those with the budget.

Manufacturer description: “Don’t let the smaller size fool you; this little brushless monster packs a HUGE punch. Packed under the factory-finished polycarbonate shell, you’ll find the same suspension technology found in the renowned Traxxas Revo, Velineon brushless power, and all-weather ready electronics“.

“Only Traxxas can give you the speed, quality, and performance you crave in a convenient 1/16 scale package“.

Features

• Traxxas Stability Management™
• 2-amp DC Peak Detecting Fast Charger
• 7.2 volt NiMH battery pack with iD™
• TQi 2.4GHz radio system
• Race-winning, F1-inspired Revo® suspension technology, and E-Revo integrated chassis design, perfectly optimized for 1/16 scale
• Patented Traxxas High-Current Connector allows high-capacity battery packs to deliver maximum voltage to the Velineon Brushless Power System
• Velineon VXL-3m Electronic Speed Control
• Velineon 380 Brushless Motor
• Sealed, silicone-filled differentials—an industry first in 1/16 scale
• Torque-Control™ slipper clutch system
• Telescoping universal-joint driveshafts
• Rubber-sealed ball bearings

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Our winners

It has been tough to choose our winners, as there are so many incredible choices out there. However, you can’t go far wrong with any of our picks.

However, we think the three following products are the most impressive, and we recommend checking them out first.

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Our Drifted Choice goes to the Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

Our Micro RC car winner is the Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet.

The AWD Kyosho Mini-Z provides one of the most impressive selections for body shell selection and makes an excellent all-around micro RC drift car package straight out of the box.

With a wide selection of body shells, this epic micro RC drifter provides something for everyone.

We feel that the Kyosho Mini-Z is a fantastic, well-refined micro RC car and a worthy winner of the Drifted Choice award.

Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

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Our Premium Micro RC Car Choice

Our Premium Choice is the Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck.

Although it’s a truck, the E-Revo VXL is too impressive to ignore.

Capable of reaching up to 50mph across almost every surface imaginable, offering the usual benefits you’d expect from a 1:10-scale RC car in a tiny, compact package.

Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck

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Our Budget Micro RC Car Choice

Our Budget Choice is the Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Car.

We’ve provided a couple of budget options to choose from, and the Wltoys K989 is the most popular pick among drift enthusiasts.

Capable of speeds up to 30km/h, this provides exceptional value for money and makes the perfect choice for those looking to enter the micro RC scene for the first time.

Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Car

Now that you’ve found your perfect RC drift car, why not head off-road with our favorite RC Monster Trucks?

Thank you for reading our Micro RC Cars guide.

Whether you’re looking for a micro RC car for drifting, racing, rallying, off-roading, or rock crawling, we’ve provided something for everyone in this guide, and we do not doubt that all these picks will give countless hours of pure enjoyment.

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Benefits of micro RC cars

Whether you’re into drifting, racing, or rock (well, pebble) crawling, even the smallest of spaces allow you to enjoy them to their full potential.

While some everyday rope or plastic could make the perfect opportunity to create your dream racetrack layout for drifting and racing, just about every household object could become an obstacle course consideration when it comes to crawlers.

Micro RC cars are an excellent choice for beginners looking to get involved in the RC world because they are inexpensive and durable.

If you’re looking to get into competitive racing when the world returns to normality, don’t worry – there are also micro-RC events.

With most micro RCs coming in at a fraction of the price of the standard-sized RC cars on the market, they also sustain far less impact due to their lightweight, compact size when the inevitable crashes do happen.

Given the benefits, micro RC cars are the perfect choice for kids, beginners, those on a budget, or perhaps those looking to see whether the RC scene is right for you.

Micro RC’s can be a tremendous amount of fun if you’re willing to use your imagination to think outside the box, and the micro RC market isn’t limited to just cars, either.

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What scale are micro RC cars?

Typically, anything smaller than the traditionally sized 1:10 (or 1/10) scale is considered a micro RC car. While some manufacturers use a unique scale, you can still count on them being smaller than the 1:10 variants.

While some micro RC cars can be tiny, such as the 1:76 scale car below, and some going as crazy as 1:150, we prefer to opt for the slightly bigger options, as they provide a far more realistic experience.

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Are micro RC cars better than 1:10 scale?

Although micro RC cars can be enjoyed both inside and outside, a larger-scale model will likely be more enjoyable if you’ve got plenty of space in the great outdoors.

Even the most minor debris can often become frustrating with a micro RC car, which wouldn’t affect a larger model.

With that said, a larger-scale car wouldn’t be as enjoyable indoors, as you’ll quickly find yourself crashing into almost everything imaginable, and given their added weight, you’re far more likely to sustain damage in the process.

Micro RC cars are the perfect way to enjoy smaller, confined spaces. It can be an ideal way for the kids to enjoy themselves or have fun with adults without needing to leave the house.

Alternatives to RC cars

Another popular alternative for car enthusiasts looking to have fun at home would be to get into sim racing.

From enjoying drifting games on your mobile to a high-spec gaming rig with a VR setup, there’s something out there for everyone to enjoy.

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Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

• Amazon

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