Traveling at top speeds isn’t for the faint-hearted, so wipe the sweat from your brow and rev your engines because battery-powered remote-control cars take playing with cars to a new level. We analyzed the current crop of RC cars at sub $200 and looked at some high-speed options like the RC race car track that can go at 500 mph!
Kids can live out their dreams of driving sports cars, monster trucks, and more across different terrains. They can race their friends or explore on their own, driving the vehicles most of us can only wish to drive in real life.
You can get more expensive RC cars, but these still offer high speeds, 4WD capabilities, and some even glow-in-the-dark, so you get all the features of top models without the excessive price tag. We’ve done our research to filter out the fake reviews so you can rely on these remote control cars to deliver all the thrills and spills you could ever want.
What we think are the 3 best RC cars under $200
![ALTAIR 1:10 Scale RC Truck with 2 Batteries [30 Minutes Non-Stop Run Time] Free Priority Shipping - 2.4 GHz Remote Control Car 4x4 Off Road Monster Truck - 48+ kmh Speed (Lincoln, NE USA Company)](https://thetoyzone.com/wp-content/plugins/aawp/public/image.php?url=aHR0cHM6Ly9tLm1lZGlhLWFtYXpvbi5jb20vaW1hZ2VzL0kvNTFWZ0ZTdCthUEwuanBn)
1. Bezgar HM163 – [Best Overall]
We got a chance to test drive the Bezgar BM163, and it stands out as what we would recommend as our best under $200. It’s regularly found for less than $120, and at that price, it feels like a steal with oil-filled shocks and includes a tool kit and 2 lithium-ion batteries.
The only downside was the aesthetic – I didn’t like the chassis design they included, but they also included a spare see-through design that you can style however you want.
The top speed for the Bezgar 163 is 40+ Km/h / 25+ mph, but it also includes a speed controller so you can let younger kids play. This is my top RC recommendation for those on a budget and buying for kids.
Top speed is 25 MPH/40 KHM.
What we love
- Speed control is great for younger kids
- Great value at this price point
What We Don’t Like That Much
2. Tracer Racers Second Generation Super 8 Speedway Glow Track Set (Best Quality Option) [Fasted RC car on track]
The set is a little different as it’s an RC race track – but the benefit is that you can reach speeds of 500mph but still be easy enough for kids of 8 years to play with!
It comes with two cars, each with a 2.4 GHz radio control. Once the car is paired to the remote, you can have control at various angles from proximity.
Each controller requires batteries, but the cars each work on a replaceable and rechargeable lithium polymer battery. They are easy to control, too, making them perfect for entry-level RC users and advanced users alike.
What makes this more fun for everyone is the included track that spans more than 46 feet. There’s a single loop and six-track corners, giving you plenty of room to design customized races.
If you don’t mind racing on a track, this is the fastest you can go with RC for less than $200.
But if you prefer to escape the track, the Bezgar option above is better.
Top Speed is 500MPH
What we love
- Tracks have a cool glow-in-the-dark feature.
- Cars appear to charge up at a good pace
What We Don’t Like That Much
3. Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer
The Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick is ready for the rough outdoors with its 4WD setup. It features an authentic design with a 1/18 scale to make it just as enjoyable to look at as it is to play with. There are even two riders inside that are ready to go along for the ride. The two-piece construction features incredible realism, including the three-linked rear suspension with integrated sway-bar support to make handling smoother.
There’s also an independent front suspension setup to give you greater control at higher speeds and across various terrains. You can tune the dampening rate as you see fit for personalization, thanks to the adjustable coil over shocks.
The Yeti Jr. features Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 radial tires to handle rough terrains. It has a quality, waterproof motor and a 2.4GHz 2-channel radio system with a built-in three-position throttle limiter.
The top speed for this RC car is 15mph.
What we love
- Powerful motor that offers high speeds across dirt, pavement, hard floors, etc.
- Designed to withstand frequent use and abuse
What We Don’t Like That Much
4. Powerextra Remote Control Car
The Powerextra Remote Control Car can reach speeds up to 60 km/h quickly thanks to its 550 brushless electric drive motor. It can tackle the difficulties of various terrains, from the backyard grass to the sand on a beach, with its anti-skid vacuum tires. These spike overhand tires better grip the earth for consistent and smooth driving.
Also, it has metal helical spring shock absorbers to withstand the vibrations from these terrains. This independent suspension system also keeps movements firm to work with uneven terrain. The main body is impact-resistant and collision-resistant too.
This comes with two batteries to make the playtime go up to around 25 minutes, each individually providing around 12 minutes or so. As for the remote, it’s on a 2.4GHz frequency, and it has a range of up to 100m.
Top speed is 37 MPH.
What we love
- All of the parts are replaceable, so the car can be repaired as needed
- Good for beginners thanks to the user-friendly controls
What We Don’t Like That Much
5. RIAARIO [Fastest RC car under $200]
With the RIAARIO, kids get the thrill of realistic off-road driving. This car features a 1/14 scale with authentic craftsmanship throughout, such as an independent hydraulic suspension shock-absorbing system. There are several high-quality metal materials used throughout for durability.
The 380 magnetic motors and 4WD transmission system grants the RC car powerful torque. It can reach up to 70 KMH. Thanks to the non-slip rubber tires, it has good elasticity. Also, the uneven texture on them allows the tires to grip better so it can handle multiple surfaces and wet, smooth ground.
This comes with an infrared 2.4GHz remote control that gives control up to 50m away. It can go forward, backward, left, and right for all-around steering. It comes with two batteries, each with around 20 minutes’ worth of driving time.
Top speed: 43 MPH
What we love
- Straightforward to set up and easy to use
- Batteries can charge back up fast
What We Don’t Like That Much
6. ALTAIR Power Pro XL Drivetime
With a good, large 1/10 scale, Power Pro XL Drivetime is an exciting monster truck to play with. It has a double motor design and can reach speeds up to 30mph. The power behind the motor allows it to go through various terrains without losing that speed. The RC has large rubber all-terrain tires and a 4WD independent suspension system for stability.
It can handle street racing, climb over small rocks, and plow through sandy beaches. This is even IPX4 water-resistant so it can run through muddy puddles without incident. The steel-structured chassis and all-metal sealed bearings grant it good durability.
It comes with the usual 2.4GHz transmitter. However, it also has two batteries with a runtime of up to 30 minutes. With the battery adapter, you can even have both batteries running simultaneously for uninterrupted play.
Top speed is 30 MPH
What we love
- Good high and low-speed switches for various driving modes
- Quality, user-friendly throttle trigger
What We Don’t Like That Much
7. SZJJX High-Speed RC Monster Truck
The all-terrain High-Speed RC Monster Truck features an impressive 1/18 scale, making it a must-have off-road toy. With a 4WD, it’s suitable for gravel, concrete, sand, and more varied terrains. Each wheel has a suspension spring for better stability and support. Much of this is also thanks to the four hollow rubber tires. They have great elasticity for good collision resistance and shock absorption.
The 2.4GHz remote control offers a distance of 60-80m. Its full function allows the truck to go forward, backward, left, and right. This can also reach comfortable speeds beyond 40 km/h. Also, speed adjustments range from one to ten for a steady increase ideal for beginners.
This comes with two rechargeable batteries extending the runtime to 40 minutes or more.
Top speed is 24 MPH
What we love
- It has a good range, so you don’t have to be too close to control it
- It comes with an additional PVC soft car shell to change the color of the car.
What We Don’t Like That Much
Things to consider when buying a $200 RC car:
- Ready-to-Run (RTR) Kits: Look for complete kits that include the car, controller, and batteries.
- Power Source: Electric RC cars are recommended for affordability and ease of use.
- Scale: Consider larger scales like 1:10 or 1:12 for better performance and realism.
- Terrain Compatibility: Look for versatile RC cars for both on- and off-road use.
- Build Quality: Prioritize durable materials and well-constructed components.
- Speed and Control: Check for high-speed capabilities and precise control features.
- Brand Reputation: Choose reputable brands with positive customer feedback, such as Traxxas, Redcat Racing, or Team Associated.
- Spare Parts Availability: Ensure easy access to spare parts for maintenance and repairs.
Considering these factors, you can find a high-quality RC car within the $200 price range that offers an enjoyable and reliable experience.
