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12 Best Remote Control Cars under $300

12 Best Remote Control Cars under 300
Teddy Booth
Written by
Teddy Booth
Written by
Teddy Booth
Teddy is a big kid at heart and a self-confessed geek who loves all things LEGO, Nintendo and RC (drones included). His mission is to find toys that kids will treasure, so that is why he spends A LOT of time curating the perfect list of toys and games that include options for everyone without putting kids inside boxes.
James Booth
Edited by
James Booth
Edited by
James Booth
Managing Editor
James loved anything Star Wars related as a kid! These days he uses the force to make sure TheToyZone is consistently publishing articles our readers will trust and find real value in. On his off days, you'll find him in the woods searching for Ewoks.
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Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines! Your dreams of racing in NASCAR or the Indy 500 are now closer to becoming a reality. Get the full excitement of tearing along at high speed, drifting around corners, and splashing through a water hazard. With these high-powered remote control cars, you can practically hear the rumble of the track and smell the burning rubber.

From monster trucks to rock ‘n’ roll speedsters, these 12 recommended RC motors will blow away the competition, and we’ve ensured you won’t be left on the starting grid. We’ve filtered out all the fake online reviews only to include the RC toys real car lovers recommended.

If you fancy saving some money, then be sure to also check out our recommended RC cars for kids under $100.

1. Powerextra Remote Control Car High Speed Off-Road Monster Truck (Best Budget Option)

Powerextra Remote Control Car, 1:14 Scale 60+ KMH High Speed RC Cars, 4WD 2.4GHz Off Road Trucks Toys, All Terrain Vehicle Car Gifts with 2 Batteries for Kids & Adults

This RC Monster Truck is one of the best remote control cars under $300 and offers many high-end features at an affordable price. It has a customized 550 brushless electric drive motor that can help it reach max speeds of more than 35 mph in little time. Each wheel features independent metal helical spring shock absorbers that can fight off potential damage from vibrations.

Additionally, the wheels are designed as anti-crash and off-road so the truck is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It comes with two rechargeable batteries, each with a runtime of about 12 minutes.For control, it has a 2.4 GHz remote that has throttle trim and turn trim features along with speed adjustments from low to high. There is also a range of up to 100 meters.

What we love:

  • Good for hobbyists since each part is replaceable
  • Designed with a collision-resistant body

We don’t like this as much:

  • It might not make smooth turns after running for an extended amount of time

2. Traxxas 1/16 Summit Extreme Terrain Truck Rock n’ Roll (Best Quality Option)

Traxxas 72054-5 1/16 Summit: 4WD Extreme Terrain Monster Truck with TQ 2.4GHz Radio System

The Summit Extreme Terrain Truck Rock n’ Roll is a well-designed RC truck that’s 1/16 scale and fitted with a 1/10 scale Titan 550 motor. This grants it great torque and all-terrain capabilities. Along with that, the electronics are designed with some waterproof protection so the truck can survive use in various weather conditions.

For greater off-road capabilities, the truck is designed in 4WD. It has a rocker-actuated suspension paired with ideal turning functions to make off-road racing more fun with high performance. It comes with the Traxxas iD Power Cell 7.2 NiMH battery and an AC wall-outlet charger to recharge it as needed. The remote has the typical 2.4 GHz frequency but is designed ergonomically for comfort. Also, its internal antenna is built to withstand damage for long-term use.

What we love:

  • Cool LED headlights for fun driving in low-light conditions
  • Features reliable tires that move well over multiple surfaces

We don’t like this as much:

  • Might need to purchase additional batteries to get a longer runtime

3. HSP 94111PRO-GM RC Car

Rraycom HSP 1:10 Scale Large RC Car 35+ kmh Speed Remote Control Car 4WD Electric Power On Road Drift Racing Car 94123 FlyingFish Blue

The HSP 94111PRO-GM RC Car is a large-scale drift car sitting at a 1/10 scale with drift tires to match. With its powerful motor, speeds can reach a max of 60 km/h. It has pre-trimmed anti-skid tires to handle off-road environments as well as smooth indoor surfaces.

It is built for durability thanks to the oil-filled aluminum shocks and aluminum center transmission shaft. The wheels are designed to handle any unexpected drops or abrupt changes to uneven and unstable ground. As the car is powered by a rechargeable battery, you should be able to enjoy it for some 25 minutes.

There are good 4WD capabilities and full four-direction control to easily go forward, backward, left, and right. It also has fully proportional braking for better handling. The 2.4 GHz remote control offers responsive steering with a comfortable range that reaches up to 150 meters.

What we love:

  • The battery lasts for a good deal of time before needing recharging
  • The car offers good control even at high speeds

We don’t like this as much:

  • The initial take-off could be faster

4. Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car

Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car with 7.2V 2000mAh Battery, 2.4GHz Radio and BL10315 Body (1/10 Scale), Metallic Blue

The Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car is one of the 12 best remote control cars under $300 and offers great drift control. It is built with a cool shaft-driven 4WD that helps you maintain proper control, hit incredible drifts, and recover well to avoid accidents. The lightweight plastic chassis adds additional benefits, making it simple to handle.

Along with drift tires, this 1/10 scale RC car features aluminum-capped coil-over shocks to protect against vibrations. The inside of the vehicle is also protected thanks to the waterproof 40a-brushed ESC that keeps the electronics safe if you ride the car in wet conditions. Navigating different off-road conditions is simple too due to the high-torque servo that gives just the right amount of power. Meanwhile, the high-powered brushed motor sends enough juice to each wheel. Controlling it is simple with its traditional 2.4 GHz remote.

What we love:

  • It is easy to upgrade for more advanced RC users and hobbyists
  • Simple to handle on indoor surfaces

We don’t like this as much:

  • The range of the remote controller could be better

5. ARRMA RC Truck Granite

ARRMA 1/10 Granite 4X4 V3 3S BLX Brushless Monster RC Truck RTR (Transmitter and Receiver Included, Batteries and Charger Required)

Ideal for beginners, the ARRMA RC Truck Granite is a rugged monster truck RC vehicle. It comes with a Spektrum SLT3 2.4 GHz transmitter and a SLR300 receiver for easier use. With an ergonomic design, the transmitter is simple for new users to control for longer periods. There’s even a foam wheel for more precise control and there are multiple throttle limits.

Even the wheel and trigger force are improved for a more user-friendly experience. As for the truck itself, it features a MEGA 550 brushed motor and a MEGA waterproof ESC. This allows it to handle different outdoor conditions without breaking. Also, the multi-terrain tires are sealed and vented so dirt isn’t trapped while water can still escape. For protection no matter what you encounter, the RC truck has heavy-duty bumpers to absorb impacts and tough composite shock towers. Also, the shock-absorbing loops ensure that the front and rear bumpers remain secure.

What we love:

  • This works as a good entry-level vehicle that’s easy to control and upgrade
  • Sturdy build to survive frequent, harsh use

We don’t like this as much:

  • It might help if the battery were bigger

6. Losi RC Truck SCT

Losi RC Truck 1/10 22S 2 Wheel Drive SCT Brushed RTR Ready-to- Run Kicker LOS03022T2 Black

The Losi RC Truck SCT is built with a Dynamite 12T 550 brushed motor that offers great torque and can reach high speeds fast. It has a 2WD platform that can handle indoor and simple outdoor surfaces. The tires offer a good thread to handle surfaces like dirt and asphalt.

This truck still features a durable design overall. It has aluminum front and rear chassis plates for better rigidity. Also, the truck features incredible realism in its design. It stands at a race-inspired scale and offers cool graphics. There is even a race-inspired bumper that boasts cool rubber mud flaps to further make it resemble the real thing. Regarding control, the RC truck has a Spektrum STX2 transmitter with a three-position throttle limit. This makes it easier to drive for beginners and exciting to handle for experts. It has all the necessary controls built into it, such as throttle and steering for going forward and reversing.

What we love:

  • Incredible authentic design with multiple color options to choose from
  • Good value option that offers high performance

We don’t like this as much:

  • Some issues getting the battery in and out

7. ARRMA Typhon Buggy RC Truck

ARRMA 1/8 Typhon 4X4 V3 MEGA 550 Brushed Buggy RC Truck RTR (Transmitter, Receiver, NiMH Battery and Charger Included), Green, ARA4206V3, Cars, Electric Kit Other

The ARRMA Typhon Buggy RC Truck is built for speed as soon as you remove it from the box. It is designed for great handling on race tracks, skate courses, and other similar areas. It has a low center of gravity as well as a high downforce wing. The wide arms, narrow tires, and wheels further improve its handling over these tracks.

It’s a 1/8 scale that packs a punch and can take a beating thanks to its tough steel and composite materials. The MEGA 12T brushed 550 motor also features a MEGA waterproof ESC so the electronics are kept safe. This powerful motor allows the RC buggy to reach speeds up to 30 mph. The car boasts all-terrain capabilities too with vented tires and sealed wheels. It has quality bumpers that are both stylish and durable. For steering, this car comes with a 2.4 GHz remote with a fast response and a comfortable foam wheel to help cut down on hand fatigue.

What we love:

  • Good durability, making it ideal for entry-level racers and kids
  • Quality throttle options so various users can successfully play with it

We don’t like this as much:

  • Some kids may outgrow this car, so it may better serve younger or inexperienced users

8. Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer

Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer 4WD Brushed Off-Road Side-by-Side 1/18 Scale RTR (Includes 2.4 Ghz Transmitter, Battery & Charger): AXI90069,Red, Gold and black

The Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick is an incredible remote control vehicle designed on a 1/18 scale. It dives head-on into an authentic design to look like its namesake. There are even two helmeted individuals inside the car for full immersion.

As for how it runs, the car features all-terrain tires to go over numerous outdoor surfaces easily. You can maintain control, too due to its three-linked rear suspension and integrated sway-bar. This gives it the necessary support for smooth handling. If you know how to work with these RC vehicles, you can make good use of the lower mounting points on the rear axle to better tune the suspension. This car features a 2.4 GHz transmitter that has a three-position throttle limiter built into it. Meanwhile, the truck comes with a single rechargeable battery and a well-made electric motor that effortlessly offers good performance and speed.

What we love:

  • The battery provides it with a good deal of power for longer runtime
  • Reaches higher speeds fast

We don’t like this as much:

  • May not run as well in tall grass

9. Redcat Racing Blackout SC PRO

Redcat Racing Blackout SC 1/10 Scale Electric Short Course Truck with Waterproof Electronics Vehicle, Red

The Redcat Racing Blackout SC PRO is one of the 12 best remote control cars under $300 and handles multiple terrains well. It’s a 1/10 scale vehicle that has a sleek design packed with incredible performance. There’s an independent suspension for great handling and shock-absorbing features to manage vibrations.

Its shaft-driven 4WD gives you that proper traction to manage over harsh terrain and obstacles whether you’re going forward or in reverse. Also, there’s no concern about racing through puddles or powering through the mud thanks to the waterproof 45-amp brushed ESC. This car handles with a 2.4G hz remote controller. It is just as protected as the car itself since the electronics are designed waterproof.

What we love:

  • Although it’s durable, it is capable of being repaired with ease
  • Works well for casual use across different wet and dry terrains

We don’t like this as much:

  • The steering could be stronger
$179.99

10. TOBBI Kids Ride-On Truck Style

Tobbi Kids Ride on Truck Style 12V Battery Powered Electric Car W/Remote Control Pink

The TOBBI Kids Ride-On Truck Style comes in three different colors so it’s easy for kids to get something they’ll love. It’s suitable for children from the age of three to six. This has a spacious seat with a safety belt so that two small kids can fit inside simultaneously. Also, both doors open for more realistic and easier use.

Starting it up is easy thanks to the soft-start design. There are many cool features to play around with too from the headlights, top lights, and MP3 player. You can even use the USB port or TF slot to play music or audiobooks. There are two modes of using this ride-on: manual and parental. In the manual mode, kids take full control of the pedaling and steering. It’s great for independent practice. However, for kids that aren’t ready, stick to the parent mode that offers a remote controller to safely manage the car.

What we love:

  • There are plenty of cool features to play with
  • It is designed with three-speed modes to cycle through

We don’t like this as much:

  • It might move faster when reversing compared to going forward

11. Exceed RC Electric Rally Monster RTR

1/10 2.4Ghz Exceed RC Electric Rally Monster RTR Off Road Rally Truck Stripe Red

This RC Electric Rally Monster RTR is a valuable RC car and makes off-road racing fun. There’s no interference thanks to the 2.4Ghz remote controller so it’s easy to take this and race with friends. Also, it arrives factory-assembled with the radio gear and the motor installed so that minimal setup is needed to get it going.

The vehicle is designed with lightweight suspension arms. These allow it to have quicker suspension responses and also cut down on the car’s overall weight. This can simplify handling, especially for people who may not be used to playing with off-road RC cars. The car itself is a good size too with oversized tires that have a reliable tread to better grip different surfaces. It even has a sleek, modern style so that it looks as good as it performs.

What we love:

  • The car is large enough to make it simpler for kids to keep up with
  • The controller has a great range so you don’t have to stand so close

We don’t like this as much:

  • The front bumper could offer more collision support

12. Redcat Racing Everest-10 Electric Rock Crawler

Redcat Racing Everest-10 Electric Rock Crawler with Waterproof Electronics, 2.4Ghz Radio Control (1/10 Scale), Red/Black

Conquer the outdoors with this amazing Redcat Racing Everest-10 Electric Rock Crawler. It features a scale body that has incredible articulation. This is largely thanks to the telescoping drive shafts that send power racing to the front and back axles without getting in the way of the suspension articulation.

This is designed with large tires that allow it to be ready to crawl like the more high-end RC toys. They are held in place well too due to the two aluminum Beadlock rings so no extra material is needed to ensure they stay in place.The RC toy successfully combines the aggressive look of a monster truck with the skills of a crawler so you can scale mountainsides while looking good. It features a great 4WD and a waterproof 40 amp ESC. Control is simple with the 2.4 GHz radio system.

What we love:

  • There’s more than enough room to upgrade as needed
  • It can traverse over plenty of areas outdoors

We don’t like this as much:

  • There’s a chance it might tip over from time-to-time

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