The fastest-growing category for recreational boats is RC boats. There are countless brands and designs, making it hard to make a buying choice. It’s always good to do a little research before purchasing the best RC electric boat for yourself. One way to ensure that you make the right decision is by reading reviews about what people have purchased in the past or looking for specific features your potential purchase should have. This article shares some cool RC boats for lakes and pools that you will want to consider for purchase.
Our list includes the best brushless RC boats and also the best RC boats with brushed motors so that you have a good variety of boats to choose from. Let’s dive in.
1. AlphaRev R308 20+ MPH Fast Remote Control Boat for Pools and Lakes
The AlphaRev R308 Remote Control Boat is the perfect beginner boat for pools, lakes, or any other body of water. The R308 has excellent maneuverability and speed control without sacrificing precision so that you can steer your way through tight spots with ease. With different speed levels, you are sure to find the perfect setting for your needs! This boat comes with everything needed to start up – you get an extra propeller and a rubber nose guard for pool use. This gem of a remote control boat works well in pools and you can also have fun on lakes with this boat.
Features
- Max speed of 32 kmph
- 4-channel 2.4GHz remote control with a 400 Ft signal range
- Comes with a storage case
- Non-Capsize hull system
- LED lights and autopilot mode
Pros
- Fast and sturdy
- Easy and responsive handling
- Good battery life
- Good for pools
- Suitable for kids and beginners
- Excellent customer service
- Affordable price
Cons
- Needs a better charger
2. HJ806 RC Boat 2.4GHz 35km/h Fast Portable Remote Control Speedboat
If you’re looking for a superb RC boat for kids, this is it. Built to last and fast enough to get your adrenaline pumping, the HJ806 is ready to take on any adventure. With its excellent control range and reverse function, it’s perfect for aspiring captains of industry (of the water). This boat is an easy-to-use RC boat with three batteries included so that you can play for a long time without any worry. It’s equipped with lights for visibility and has reverse capabilities, and the lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
Features
- Top speed 35 kmph
- Magnetic motor
- Low battery alert
- Reverse sailing
- Double waterproof
- Three batteries included
Pros
- Superfast
- Easy to use
- Extra batteries
- Suitable for lakes and ponds
- Worth every penny
- Recommended for younger kids
Cons
- Batteries take long to charge
3. Pro Boat Blackjack 24″ Brushless Catamaran RTR, PRB08007
The BlackJack is the perfect boat for the boater in all of us. Take to the waters with this 3S-ready Pro Boat Blackjack, one of the best of all Proboat models. With a sizable 24″ wave runner hull, this catamaran will float on top of the water and provide a smooth ride even in light wind conditions. The Blackjack 24″ catamaran is great for beginners and advanced users alike, as it has a lot of speed, yet is very controllable. With the Spektrum STX 2.4GHz FHSS Radio system, the boat will have you racing it without any interference. This boat will have you throwing huge air off those waves in no time!
Features
- Max speed of 48 kmph
- Brushless 2000Kv water-cooled motor
- 30A Li-Po compatible ESC
- Includes Spektrum STX 2.4GHz FHSS radio system
- Hull mounted waterproof steering servo
Pros
- Very fast
- Easy to handle
- Stable
- Well built
- Runs on 3S batteries
- Perfect for pools and lakes
- Good starter boat
- Worth the price
Cons
- May need an aftermarket water cooler
4. VOLANTEXRC Brushless Remote Control Boat Atomic 42mph High-Speed RC Boat
If you’ve been waiting for a super fast remote-controlled boat that won’t break the bank, this is it. For the price, this brushless RC boat can’t be beaten. This Atomic RC Boat has everything you need to get racing, including an easy-to-use remote control and durable design that makes it ideal for RC boaters looking to race in their nearest lake. This high-speed RC boat features a brushless motor with an adjustable power controller for speed settings at three different levels. It has an excellent battery life, great maneuverability, and is fast! This little rocket on the water is perfect for adults or teenagers with experience operating RC boats.
Features
- Top speed of 67 kmph
- Unibody hull design
- 2.4Ghz radio controller with a range of 656 ft
- Water-cooled system
- RTR
Pros
- Really fast
- Worth the price
- Good battery life
- Excellent customer service
- Perfect for lakes and racing
Cons
- Not for young drivers
- No reverse
5. Cheerwing RC Racing Boat Large Brushless 30mph
This Cheerwing RC boat is the perfect blend of speed, durability, and affordability. The quality of the brushless motor and controls is excellent. This boat can handle anything you throw at it with durable construction and decent battery life. The boat is easy to control, and there are all the necessary features to keep you entertained. It’s ready to race out of the box; add a battery, and you’re good to go! You will love how easy it is to control it due to its agile nature. It is probably the best brushless RC boat for the price, it is perfect for both adults and kids.
Features
- 3554A brushless water-cooled motor
- 2.4Ghz marine radio control system
- Max speed of 50 kmph
- Self-righting hull design
- Poor signal alarm
- RTR
Pros
- Very fast out of the box
- Well built
- Good battery life
- Good maneuverability
- Excellent starter boat
Cons
- Short battery life
6. ALTAIR Brushless AA Tide RC Boat 40kmph
The ALTAIR Brushless RC Boat is a perfect remote control boat for those who want to go fast and have fun. This RC boat has a brushless motor that makes it run smoothly, even in rough water and quietly. It can take tight turns and flips itself back over if it goes upside down, making it an enjoyable little boat to drive! This RC boat comes with a high-performance motor and a low battery alarm, so you’re never left guessing how much time you have left. It’s easy to operate, too- turn on the transmitter, hit the throttle button, and go! You won’t be disappointed with this RC boat.
Features
- Top speed of 40 kmph
- Self-righting feature
- 11.1 V 1500mAH Li-Po rechargeable battery
- RTR
Pros
- Fast and sturdy
- Powerful brushless motor
- Comes with LiPo batteries
- Decent minutes of playtime
- Top-class customer service
- Excellent beginner/intermediate boat
- Fun for all ages
Cons
- Smallish in size
7. Pro Boat React RC Boat 17″ Brushed Deep-V RTR
Boating on the water is a timeless family favorite, and we’ve added a deep-V RC boat to the mix. This RC Boat is fast and maneuverable but can also be enjoyed slow. The battery life is good, and you’ll want to get an extra one for continuous play. This RC boat features precise controls and self-righting capability for safety, making it the perfect choice for beginners or advanced drivers alike. This boat also has a self-righting ability for when you flip it. Great starter boat, great speed, and entertaining toy!
Features
- Top speed of 30 kmph
- Self-righting hull
- 390 brushed motor
- 2.4Ghz marine radio system
- Water-sensor to prevent waterless accelerations
Pros
- Different design
- Fast for its size
- Good for the price
- Perfect for young beginners
Cons
- Long charging time
8. Pro Boat Jet Jam 12″ Pool Racer Brushed RTR
The Pro Boat Jet Jam is a little gem of an RC boat that will take you on a fun ride. You will be surprised at the speed and durability of this RC boat. For under $100, you get a highly regarded RC boat perfect for beginners and veterans alike. This boat looks well built and sturdy, with a top speed of about 24 kmph and it runs quiet and smooth too. Any newbie or advanced boater can handle this high-quality craft. Don’t get bored this summer. Hop into the pool to have some great fun with the Pro Boat Jet Jam.
Features
- Top speed of about 24 kmph
- Brushed motor
- Self-righting hull
- Safe jet pump
- Ready to run
- USB charger
- Decal sheets (3 colors)
Pros
- Unique looking design
- Perfect pools and lakes
- Younger kids will love it
- Excellent pool boat
Cons
- Not super fast
9. Traxxas Spartan Brushless Race Boat w/Velineon VXL-6s, RTR
Get a front-row seat to the adrenaline rush of Spartan Racing with Traxxas’ electric race boat. This super fast RC boat is equipped with a Velineon 540XL brushless motor and waterproof components, so you can take on all sorts of watery terrain without fear of your boat getting soaked. Its large-displacement hull ensures the Spartan will handle even the most demanding racing conditions. At the same time, its TQi 2.4GHz radio system provides top-quality tuning for expert-level performance and precision control. With everything you need in one package, you’ll race ahead in no time.
Features
- Top speed of 56 kmph
- Two 7.4V LiPo packs included
- 36″ deep-V hull
- Water-cooled, waterproof VXL-6s marine speed control
- Velineon 540XL brushless motor
- TQi 2.4GHz radio system with Traxxas Stability Management
Pros
- Goes up to 80 kmph on 6S batteries
- Powerhouse performance
- Good in choppy water
- Suitable for adults and experienced hobbyists
- Traxxas quality and service
Cons
- Expensive
- Not for young kids
10. Cheerwing Brushless RC Boat 40 km/h for Pools & Lakes
You’ll have plenty of fun performing your stunts in this Cheerwing RC Boat. This high-speed boat is powerful, self-righting and comes with a good run time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pro, the Cheerwing Brushless RC Boat will be the perfect addition to your fleet. A brushless motor, foam hatch gasket and double sealed hatch are just some of the features that make this boat capable enough for both your kids and adults to enjoy.
Features
- Brushless motor
- Top speed of 40 kmph
- Water cooling system
- Low battery and out of range alarm
- Self-Righting hull design
- 2.4 GHz transmitter
Pros
- Powerful brushless motor
- Runs smooth
- Good bargain for the price
- Ideal for beginners and hobbyists
Cons
- Battery life could be better
Quick Tips for RC Boats
- There are different types of electric RC boats, but these few tips are advisable before you put your boat in the water:
- Use boat tape on the hatch and also seal the ESC when the boat gets wet on the inside, especially when it flips.
- Apply marine grease to keep the driveshaft smooth and help water not leak back.
- Double-check all the fasteners and Locktite them.
- Before taking out your RC boat (or any RC), always check all the screws and fittings to ensure everything is snug.