Remote control cars used to be expensive, complex hobby kits strictly for adults. If you wanted to drive, you had to build it first. That isn’t the best combination for a child who just wants to race.
Times have changed. Today, manufacturers build incredible RC vehicles specifically for kids. They are durable, fast, and ready to run right out of the box.
However, the market is flooded with options. How do you separate the high-quality speedsters from the cheap plastic lemons? We reviewed the top models to help you find the best RC car for your child.
- All-terrain vehicle
- Water-resistant design
- Additional batteries available
- Simple controls
- Sturdy design & construction
- Adjustable frequency
- Tri-channel transmitter
- Great suspension system
- Sturdy built
- Can climb on 45-degree slope
- Suitable for rough play
- Comes with 2 rechargeable batteries
- Full ER experience
- Everything you need in a box
- Available as a firetruck
- Realistic lamborghini replica
- Small size
- Limited to 5 mph
- 30 minute battery time
- Includes four-lamp light bar
- Sturdy construction
Are RC Cars Safe for Kids?
Safety is always the priority, but the short answer is yes. RC cars are safe as long as you choose an age-appropriate model and supervise play.
When playing outside, teach your child basic safety rules regarding traffic and pedestrians (1).
Like any toy with moving parts and batteries, these cars are subject to safety standards. To ensure a safe experience, look for a car that is:
- Reputable: Sold by a known manufacturer with clear safety ratings.
- Age-Appropriate: Rated specifically for your child’s age group to avoid small parts or complex controls.
- Developmentally Suitable: Matches your child’s stage of development and motor skills.
How Fast Do They Go?
Kid-focused RC cars generally don’t reach the dangerous speeds of hobby-grade adult racers. The top speed usually correlates with the recommended age group.
Toddler toys typically cruise at a gentle 2 to 5 mph. Cars for older children can reach thrilling speeds of 15 to 30 mph.
Most toy-grade vehicles sit comfortably in the 5 to 15 mph range. This provides enough speed to be exciting without risking injury or immediate damage to the furniture.
Battery Life and Play Time
One factor competitors often overlook is battery life. Most toy-grade RC cars run for 15 to 30 minutes on a single charge.
Because charging can take 60 to 90 minutes, we highly recommend looking for models that come with two batteries. This allows you to swap them out and keep the fun going.
How to Choose the Right Car
Finding the perfect match involves more than just picking the coolest color. Consider these factors before buying:
- Terrain: Will they drive on carpet, pavement, or grass? Low-slung racers need smooth surfaces, while trucks handle off-road bumps.
- Durability: Look for flexible plastic bumpers and rubber tires that can absorb impacts.
- Control Range: Make sure the remote works from a decent distance, especially for outdoor play.
- Frequency: 2.4GHz technology allows multiple cars to race simultaneously without interference.
- Budget: Decide if you want a cheap toy for casual play or a repairable hobby-grade car.
Product Reviews
After testing for durability, speed, and fun factor, here are our top picks for the best RC cars for kids.
Jeypod High Speed Remote Control Car
Best Beginner RC Car
The Jeypod High Speed car is a fantastic entry point for tweens. It bridges the gap between a simple toy and a hobby-grade vehicle.
It operates on a 2.4GHz frequency, which is a crucial feature. This technology allows multiple cars to race in the same area without the controllers interfering with one another. If you have siblings who want to race, this is a must-have feature.
While the manufacturer recommends this for ages 8 and up, the controls are intuitive enough that slightly younger kids with good coordination can handle it.
Pros
Here is why we like this model:- Smart Charging: You do not need a bulky external charger; the batteries charge directly via USB.
- Versatile Tires: It handles pavement, dirt, and short grass with ease.
- Safe Speed: It is fast enough to be thrilling but not so fast that it breaks immediately upon impact.
Cons
Keep these factors in mind:- Charge Time: The battery offers 20 to 30 minutes of play but requires 90 minutes to recharge.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | The car, transmitter, two 3.7-volt rechargeable batteries, two AA batteries, one screwdriver, one USB, and the user manual |
| Battery – Car | Rechargeable battery pack |
| Battery – Controller | 2 AA |
| Controller | Pistol-grip style |
| Dimensions | 5.1 x 7.9 x 3 inches |
Our Ratings
Altair Fast Remote Control Truck 4x4
Best RC Car For Speed
If your child has a need for speed, the Altair 4×4 delivers. This truck hits speeds up to 30 mph, making it one of the faster options on our list.
A standout feature is the two-speed setting. You can set the car to “slow” mode while your child learns the controls. Once they master the handling, you can switch it to high speed for full-throttle racing.
Pros
These features make it a winner:- All-Terrain: The 4-wheel drive system powers through sand, rocks, and grass.
- Durability: A water-resistant design protects the electronics from puddles and mud.
- Stay in the Action: You can purchase additional battery packs to swap out for longer play sessions.
Cons
Consider this before buying:- Battery Access: Some parents find the battery compartment difficult to access for charging.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | Car, controller, USB charger, and one rechargeable 7.4-volt battery |
| Battery – Car | 7.4V 1600 mAh |
| Battery – Controller | 3 AA |
| Controller | Pistol-grip style |
| Dimensions | 13.5 x 12 x 6.5 inches |
Our Ratings
Fisca Remote Control Stunt Car
Best RC Car For Stunts
The Fisca Stunt Car ditches the traditional steering mechanism for something much more fun.
Instead of a standard axle, the wheels are mounted on independent pivots. This allows the car to spin in place, flip over, and drive upside down. It is virtually impossible for this car to get “stuck” since it can just flip itself over and keep going.
This is an excellent choice for kids who care more about tricks and spins than traditional racing.
Pros
Here are the benefits:- Instant Fun: The controls are easy to mash, allowing kids to perform cool stunts immediately.
- Soft Tires: The flexible rubber tires grip well indoors and outdoors without damaging floors.
- Child Safe: The 4.5 mph top speed prevents injury if it bumps into ankles.
Cons
Take note of this drawback:- Short Run Time: The battery only lasts about 12 to 15 minutes per charge.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | The car, controller, 2 AA batteries, one 3.7-volt battery, and one USB cable for charging |
| Battery – Car | 3.7-volt lithium-ion |
| Battery – Controller | 2 AA |
| Controller | Games system style controller |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 6.1 x 2 inches |
Our Ratings
My First Remote Control Cartoon Car
Best RC Car for Toddlers
This bright, chunky police car is the perfect introduction to RC toys for toddlers. It comes with a removable action figure for imaginative play even when the car is off.
The controller is designed for tiny hands. It resembles a steering wheel and features just two large buttons: one for forward and one for “reverse and turn.” This simplifies the driving process, helping young children understand cause and effect without frustration.
Pros
Why it is great for little ones:- Toddler Friendly: The intuitive two-button control scheme is easy to master.
- Robust: It withstands constant collisions with baseboards and furniture.
- Engaging: It features flashing lights, sirens, and music to keep children entertained.
Cons
A potential annoyance for parents:- Volume: The music and sirens are loud and cannot be adjusted.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | The car, a figure, and the remote |
| Battery – Car | 3 AA |
| Battery – Controller | 2 AA |
| Controller | Steering wheel-shaped controller with two buttons |
| Dimensions | 11.1 x 7.1 x 4.5 inches |
Our Ratings
Maisto 3-Channel Rock Crawler Extreme
Best RC Car for Grass
Racing isn’t for everyone. Some kids prefer the technical challenge of climbing over obstacles. The Maisto Rock Crawler is built specifically for rugged terrain, gravel, and grass.
It features articulated front and rear suspension and three motors. The low gearing provides plenty of torque for climbing over rocks that would stop a standard race car. It is not fast, maxing out at 2 to 3 mph, but that is by design for a RC rock crawler.
Pros
The pros of this crawler:- Multi-Player: The tri-channel transmitter lets three people play at once without interference.
- Articulation: The flexible suspension keeps wheels on the ground over uneven surfaces.
- Durability: The thermoplastic body absorbs bumps and scrapes.
Cons
Be aware of the power needs:- Battery Hog: It requires many batteries; we strongly suggest investing in rechargeables to save money.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | The car and controller |
| Battery – Car | 6 AA |
| Battery – Controller | 2 AAA |
| Controller | Pistol-grip style |
| Dimensions | 11 x 7.9 x 6.3 inches |
Our Ratings
Double E 1/12 Scale RC Monster Truck
Best RC Monster Truck
The Double E Monster Truck is a solid hybrid vehicle. It combines the look of a monster truck with the climbing ability of a crawler.
It utilizes two separate motors, one for driving and one for climbing. Combined with four-wheel drive and independent suspension, it handles slopes and backyard obstacles well. While it isn’t a high-speed racer, it offers a great balance of power and versatility.
Pros
Why we recommend it:- Climbing Power: It can tackle slopes up to a 45-degree angle.
- Size: The large 1:12 scale makes it feel substantial and tough.
- Bonus Power: It includes two rechargeable battery packs for up to an hour of total play time.
Cons
The trade-off:- Jack of All Trades: It does a little bit of everything well but isn’t the fastest racer or the toughest crawler.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | One car, controller, and two rechargeable battery packs. |
| Battery – Car | Ni-MH battery pack |
| Battery – Controller | 2 AA |
| Controller | Pistol-grip style |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 9 x 7.5 inches |
Our Ratings
NQD 1:10 Remote Control Car
Best RC Car for 8-Year-Olds
The NQD RC Car matches the high energy of an active 8-year-old. This vehicle is designed for stunts, drifts, and speed on smooth surfaces.
It performs best on pavement, concrete, or flat dirt. While it can handle small pebbles, it is not built for deep grass or mud. A unique feature is the gesture sensing capability, adding a modern tech twist to the controls.
Pros
Cool features include:- Fast Paced: It reaches speeds up to 25 mph.
- Drifting: The special wheels allow for omni-directional drifting and lateral movement.
- Tech: The gesture control offers a new way to interact with the car.
Cons
Watch out for this issue:- Durability: Some users report wheels coming loose during rough play.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | One car, controller, 1200mAh rechargeable battery, watch USB charging cable, body battery charging cable and remote watch |
| Battery – Car | One rechargeable 1200mAh battery |
| Battery – Controller | USB cable |
| Controller | USB cable |
| Dimensions | 15.5 x 10 x 5.5 inches |
Our Ratings
Kidirace RC - Remote Control Police Car
Best RC Car for 5-Year-Olds
The Kidirace Police Car hits the sweet spot between a toddler toy and a big-kid hobby car. It looks realistic enough to satisfy a 5-year-old without being too complicated to drive.
It uses a rechargeable battery, saving you trips to the store for AA batteries. Kidirace also built this with 2.4GHz technology, so you can buy the matching firetruck or another police car and race them together without signal interference.
Pros
Here is why kids love it:- Realistic Effects: Working lights and sirens create an immersive emergency response game.
- Complete Kit: It comes with everything needed to start driving immediately.
- Easy Handling: The steering is responsive and simple for younger children to learn.
Cons
A minor drawback:- Noisy: There is no volume control for the siren sound effects.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | One car, one rechargeable battery pack, one mini USB cable, one wall charger, one screwdriver, and two AA batteries |
| Battery – Car | One rechargeable pack |
| Battery – Controller | 2 AA |
| Controller | Games controller style |
| Dimensions | 14.8 x 7.6 x 6.5 inches |
Our Ratings
1:24 Scale, Licensed RC Lamborghini Veneno
Best Licensed RC Car
For the child who loves supercars, this officially licensed Lamborghini Veneno is a dream come true. It features authentic details like carbon-patterned styling, working headlights, and red taillights.
It is a smaller 1:24 scale car, making it ideal for indoor use on hardwood or tile floors. While the manufacturer lists it for ages 3 and up, the fine details make it better suited for a slightly older child (around 7) who will appreciate the realism rather than just crashing it.
Pros
The best parts:- Authentic Look: It is a detailed replica that looks great on a shelf or on the floor.
- Indoor Friendly: The 5 mph speed limit makes it safe for hallways and living rooms.
- Compact: Its small size is perfect for homes with limited play space.
Cons
Keep in mind:- Fragile: It is not built for rough play or jumping off ramps.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | One car and one controller |
| Battery – Car | Three AA |
| Battery – Controller | Two AA |
| Controller | Game system controller style |
| Dimensions | 8 x 3.2 x 2 inches |
Our Ratings
Bezgar Speed Legend Remote Control Car
Best RC Car For The Money
Finding a durable RC car that doesn’t cost a fortune is difficult, but the Bezgar Speed Legend fits the bill. It is designed to be a rugged “basher” car that kids can drive aggressively without worry.
The large bumpers protect the chassis, and the chassis itself feels sturdy. It is an excellent choice for driving in the dirt, on gravel, or around the backyard.
Pros
Why it is a good value:- Long Play Time: It runs for nearly 30 minutes on a charge; with two batteries, you get an hour of fun.
- Night Driving: A bright LED light bar makes evening driving possible.
- Tough: The construction holds up well to crashes and flips.
Cons
A common maintenance tip:- Tire Glue: The tires may pop off the rims during hard turns; gluing them down fixes this instantly.
Product Specs
| Included in the box | The car, two battery packs, one remote control, two USB charging cables, one screwdriver, and four spare screws |
| Battery – Car | One rechargeable pack |
| Battery – Controller | 3 AA |
| Controller | Pistol-grip style |
| Dimensions | 7.2 x 5.5 x 7.2 inches |
Our Ratings
FAQs
What Is The Best Age For RC Cars?
While you can find simple one-button cars for toddlers as young as 2 years old, the “sweet spot” for RC cars is usually between ages 5 and 8. At this age, children develop the hand-eye coordination required to steer and throttle simultaneously. For hobby-grade cars that go over 20 mph, we recommend waiting until the child is at least 12.
What Does 2.4GHz Mean For RC Cars?
In the past, RC cars used 27MHz or 49MHz frequencies, which often caused interference if two cars were near each other. Modern cars use 2.4GHz technology, which automatically pairs the remote to the car. This allows you to race multiple vehicles side-by-side without the controllers confusing the signals.
How Long Do RC Car Batteries Last?
Toy-grade RC cars typically run for 15 to 20 minutes on a fully charged battery. Faster driving and rough terrain drain the battery quicker. Because recharging can take over an hour, we strongly recommend buying a model that comes with two battery packs so you can swap them out.
| Product | Best | Battery (Car) | Battery (Controller) | Controller | Dimensions |
| Jeypod High-Speed RC Car | Beginner | Rechargeable battery | 2 AA | Pistol-grip style | 5.1 x 7.9 x 3″ |
| Altair Fast RC Truck 4×4 | Speed | 7.4V 1600 mAh | 3 AA | Pistol-grip style | 13.5 x 12 x 6.5″ |
| Fisca RC Stunt Car | Stunts | 3.7-volt lithium-ion | 2 AA | Game system style controller | 6.3 x 6.1 x 2″ |
| My First RC Cartoon Car | Toddlers | 3 AA | 2 AA | Steering wheel-shaped controller | 11.1 x 7.1 x 4.5″ |
| Maisto 3-Channel Rock Crawler Extreme | Grass | 6 AA | 2 AAA | Pistol-grip style | 11 x 7.9 x 6.3″ |
| Double E 1/12 Scale RC Monster Truck | Monster Truck | Ni-MH battery pack | 2 AA | Pistol-grip style | 15.4 x 9 x 7.5″ |
| NQD RC Car | 8-Year-Olds | 1200mAh battery | USB cable | Game controller style | 15.5 x 10 x 5.5″ |
| Kidirace RC – RC Police Car | 5-Year-Olds | Rechargeable pack | 2 AA | Game controller style | 14.8 x 7.6 x 6.5″ |
| Licensed RC Lamborghini Veneno | Licensed RC Car | Three AA | 2 AA | Game system controller style | 8 x 3.2 x 2″ |
| Bezgar Speed Legend RC Car | For The Money | Rechargeable pack | 3 AA | Pistol-grip style | 7.2 x 5.5 x 7.2″ |
Start Your Engines
Whether you need a simple cartoon cruiser for a toddler or a high-speed buggy for a pre-teen, there is an RC car out there for every driver.
Remember to check the recommended age and terrain capabilities before you buy. The right car will get your kids off the couch, outside, and racing in no time.
