RC buggies are one of the most popular RC vehicles on the market. They are easy to use, fun for all ages, and come in a wide range of options. Buggies make for an excellent introduction to the world of RC racing because they offer a more forgiving driving experience than other models. There are many different kinds of RC buggies out there, so it’s important to know which ones will work best for you. This helpful guide will tell you all about the top 10 best RC buggies for beginners!
1. ARRMA 1/8 Typhon 4X4 V3 3S BLX Brushless Buggy RC Truck RTR
If you’re looking for a serious RC buggy that can take a pounding, the ARRMA 1/8 Typhon is your vehicle. This RC buggy features big-scale styling and construction, with an innovative design to ensure it performs well on any terrain. The Typhon 4X4 will thrill you with its high top speed paired with great handling and stability, all at a reasonably competitive price over other 1/8 scale trucks. Go for higher capacity batteries to prolong your run time and fun. You’ll be amazed at how much fun you can have playing around in your backyard with this awesome machine.
Features
- 1/8 scale
- 4×4, RTR
- Adjustable ride height and body mounts
- Max speed 80+ kmph (50+ mph)
- Firma brushless motor
- Spektrum SLT3 radio
Pros
- A blast to drive
- Long lasting basher
- Perfect right out of the box
- Can take a beating
- Good for new and experienced users
Cons
- Batteries and charger not included
- Too fast for young kids
2. BEZGAR HB121 Hobby Grade 1:12 All Terrains Sand Rail Buggy
If you’re looking for an RC dune buggy that is fast, rugged, and well-built, the BEZGAR HB121 is a perfect choice. With a top speed of up to 40+ kilometers per hour and the ability to maneuver on any terrain, this RC buggy is perfect for those looking to have a blast racing or just cruising around. With its tough suspension system, this powerful truck can handle any type of terrain, and the durable design ensures this RC dune buggy will last through your times of fun. The 1:12 scale is the perfect RC car for beginners who want to get into RC racing or dune buggies. And the best part? It’s made by Bezgar, one of the most trusted brands in the RC business.
Features
- 1/12 scale
- 4×4, RTR
- Max speed 42 kmph
- 7V 1500 mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery
- 20 minutes run time
- 390L brushed motor
- USB charging cable
Pros
- Fast and rugged
- Easy to use
- Perfect for beginners
- Best price for performance
- Friendly customer service
- Decent battery life
Cons
- Short battery life
- Parts may be difficult to source
3. GoolRC WLtoys 124019 RC Car, 1/12 Off-Road Buggy RTR
Looking for a fast, reliable RC buggy that will last? A beginner’s RC car that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the WLtoys 124019 RC Car. With a 4WD transmission and metal differentials (so be sure to grease before running) , this little car is built tough from the ground up. Add in some quick-handling off-road tires and you have a buggy that can handle just about any surface where you can go. The battery life is decent enough to keep your fun times going and this little RC car is easy to control. Best of all, it’s one of our most affordable RC cars! This RC car is a great starter RC car that can be upgraded and customized.
Features
- 1/12 scale
- 4WD, RTR
- Max speed 60 kmph
- 4GHz radio system
- Hydraulic shock absorber
Pros
- Really fast and responsive
- Buggy style hobby-grade car
- Good starter RC car
- Well built and upgradeable
- Works well out-of-box
- Great value for the buck
- All metal differentials
Cons
- Can be a bit fragile
- Not a basher
4. GoolRC Wltoys RC Car Remote Control Car XKS 144001 RC Buggy
The GoolRC XKS 144001 scale buggy is a great choice for beginners and enthusiasts. It’s fast, durable, and built to last. With an easy-to-use remote control that comes with the car, you’ll be racing around your living room or backyard in no time. It is ready to zip straight out of the box and offers plenty of options for mods. WLToys is well-known for producing durable and reasonably priced remote control vehicles. The sturdy design can handle anything you throw at it – just don’t forget to grease the metal differentials before you take off!
Features
- 1/14 scale
- 4WD, RTR
- Top speed of 60 kmph
- 550 motor
- 4V Lithium battery
- 4GHz radio system
- Aluminum alloy frame
- Oil pressure shock absorber
Pros
- Fast and well built
- Perfect starter car for kids
- Quality parts
- Can take a beating
- Good budget RC buggy
- Parts easily available
Cons
- The charger could be better
5. Redcat Racing Brushless Electric Tornado EPX PRO
Do you want a remote control truck that can go head to head with the fastest of them and still come out on top? The Redcat Racing Tornado EPX PRO is for you. The Tornado is a purpose-built RC buggy that is both fast and durable. At the heart of this buggy are powerful brushless motors, waterproof electronics and solid shocks. This model will take you to speeds topping out at 45-50 mph with a 3s battery. It’s got incredible durability so it can handle any sort of terrain, and the radio controller is easy to use and makes for an excellent RC car at this price point. It’s worth a buy!
Features
- 1/10 scale
- RC540 brushless motor
- Max speed 40+ mph (depending on the battery)
- Waterproof 60A ESC (2s-3s LIPO ready)
- Waterproof steering servo
- 4GHz radio system.
- 4v 3500mAh 15C LiPo battery
- LiPo charger
Pros
- Serious firepower for the dollar
- Responsive controller
- 3s compatible
- Upgradeable
- Awesome for the price
- Lightning-fast out of the box
Cons
- Large turn radius
- Upgrade battery and charger to really enjoy
- Not for younger kids
6. Redcat Racing Blackout XBE Pro Electric Buggy with Waterproof Electronics
This 1/10th scale XBE Pro is Redcat Racing’s take on the modern-day RC buggy. The XBE Pro is a high-performance RC buggy that will tear up the dirt, beat the pavement, and perform beautifully on any terrain. Featuring an automatic shut-off to prevent overheating, this tough little speedster will take anything you throw at it. With its powerful motor, fully waterproof electronics, and tough construction, this buggy is perfect for both serious racers and recreational drivers of all ages seeking an amazing off-road experience.
Features
- 1/10 scale
- 4WD
- Oil-filled adjustable shocks
- Independent suspension
- Short course truck tires
- 4GHz radio system
- Waterproof electronics
Pros
- Powerful basher
- Brushless motors
- Very fast and durable
- Parts easy to replace and install
- Super car for experienced RC users
Cons
- Not for young kids
- Battery life could be better
7. Remote Control Car,60+ KMH 1:14 Scale WLtoys
With the 60+ kmph top speed, this 1:14 scale RC buggy is one of the fastest RC cars in its price bracket. The remote control is easy to use and lightweight for any beginner to be able to operate it with ease. This RC car has a rugged frame that can take some abuse and still keep rolling. The buggy also comes with 2 additional battery packs, so you can enjoy this rocket for hours. The wheels are sports-like, and the car is easy to put back together if something breaks or comes apart. WLToys products are designed to be number one for beginners to professionals that want to get into the RC hobby world. Overall, it’s a good buy for your RC collection.
Features
- 1/14 scale
- 4×4, RTR
- Max speed 60+ kmph
- Independent suspension
- 4Ghz remote control system
- Two 7.4V 1500 mAh rechargeable LiPo batteries
Pros
- Fast and agile
- Performance right out of the box
- Ability to dial down the max speed
- Good battery life
- Value buy for the price
- Great entry-level buggy
Cons
- More geared towards adults
- Small scale
8. Remote Control Car,1:12 Scale 4×4 All-Terrain Off-Road RC Truck
This 1:12 scale RC buggy is an ideal beginner’s RC for jumping, racing and off-roading. The truck features a fast buggy design with speed control for beginners and pros alike. The truck also has good shocks and run time for a variety of terrain you might encounter. Plus, the remote is easy to control so your kid can have a blast driving it around (while you take a break from chasing them around the house). It’s also really sturdy so you don’t have to worry about it breaking if your little one decides to drive up the side of your backyard or through your coffee table.
Features
- 1/12 scale
- 4×4, RTR
- Max speed 38 kmph
- 4GHz radio-controlled system
- IPX4 waterproof
Pros
- Fast, off-road car
- Easy to control and fun to drive
- Good for kids
- Waterproof electronics
Cons
- Part failures occasionally
9. TAMIYA 1/10 Grasshopper 2WD Buggy Kit
Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist with a collection of RC cars, or looking to get your feet wet in the hobby, the Grasshopper Buggy Kit is a perfect place to start. A classic Tamiya entry-level buggy from the 80s, this kit features a simple and fun build that’s great for kids and newcomers alike. The Grasshopper is designed with sturdy but easy-to-assemble components, durable materials, and an easy-to-read instruction manual to help you get started. With the added stability of a solid suspension, this kit is ready to take on any terrain!
Features
- 1/10 scale
- 2WD
- Buggy kit
Pros
- A walk down the memory lane
- Classic Tamiya buggy model
- Fun project for kids
- Entry-level classic buggy kit
- Good addition to your RC collection
Cons
- Not RTR
- Old model
10. Traxxas Radio System 2Wd Off-Road Buggy
The Traxxas Radio System Buggy is a pro-grade starter car that is perfect for first-time hobbyist. The RC buggy is durable, easy to work on, and can be outfitted with new parts to make it even more fun to drive. This vehicle comes pre-assembled and ready to go right out of the box, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for their first hobby-grade RC vehicle. Whether you’re looking for a high-quality hobby-level RC buggy or a starter buggy that’s ready to run out of the box, this Traxxas buggy is the vehicle for you!
Features
- 1/10 scale
- Max speed 55 kmph
- Brushless Titan motor
- TQ 2.4GHz radio system
Pros
- Great starter RC buggy
- Rugged construction
- Top-notch customer support
- Plenty of available parts
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
5 Things To Consider When Buying Your First RC Buggy
What is an RC Buggy? RC buggies usually have higher clearance than an on-road RC vehicle and have a low center of gravity, which makes them more stable than an RC Monster truck. They are designed for both on-road and off-road driving, with their rear wheels generally wider than the front wheels. RC buggies can be either nitro or electric powered (with brushed or brushless motor). Their scale size can range from 1/8 scale to 1/16, where the larger buggies will have higher ground clearance.
The remote control buggy has become increasingly popular over the last few years. This is because it is a fun toy that can be used for many different purposes. If you are considering buying your first RC buggy, here are some things to consider.
1. RC Buggy Size
RC buggies come in 1/8 scale to 1/16 scale in general. If you are buying for a child, it’s essential to get a small buggy that is easy to control. Larger buggies are more suitable for adult beginners as they are more powerful and are better for off-roading.
2. Electric vs. Nitro power
Electric-powered RC buggies are quieter, low maintenance, and cheaper than a nitro version. We would recommend that beginners go for electric RC buggies before gaining experience and graduating to nitro-powered cars.
3. Budget
The price of a remote control buggy will vary greatly depending on the features and accessories included in the package. Some of the most popular models retail for $70-100, but some higher-end models can cost $500 or more. There are some great options across the price range out there.
4. Spare Parts availability
How easily are spare parts available? The company that makes the buggy should also have a good reputation for customer service. If you need help with your buggy in the future, you want to know that they will help quickly and easily.
5. Brushed vs Brushless Motor
We recommend brushed motors for kids under 12 years of age as they are not as fast as brushless motors and are easier to control. Adult beginners can go for brushless motors. A brushless motor is more expensive, but it won’t wear out as quickly, requires less maintenance, and lasts longer.