OUR VERDICT
4.8/5
The Top Race 23 Channel RC Excavator (TR-211M) is a high-performance machine with a solid all-metal construction and enough power to dig through the ground, not just sand. Ideal for adults and enthusiasts looking to get into the hobby without spending a ton of money.
Top Race TR-211M Review
Digging, dumping, and moving dirt has never been more fun than with this model! This is a fully functional replica of a real excavator with fully responsive controls, and among the best RC excavators in its class. It’s loaded with so many features that it even makes realistic sounds when it moves. However, let’s take a closer look at its performance, specifically its durability, power, battery life, and all of the additional features.
Performance
This RC excavator has a digging force of 1.1 pounds per cubic inch, which means you can use it effectively in your yard and anywhere else outdoors and it won’t let you down. And with its 180-pound load capacity, you can load it with the heaviest loads of dirt or gravel you can find. It’s suitable for tougher jobs and for climbing up or down slopes or out of any hole you can dig with it.
Durability
This is a remote control excavator toy with a construction-grade feel. Made of full metal and high- quality materials, this remote control excavator is built to take a beating and still maintain its strong digging power.
Battery Life
It is equipped with a powerful 2000Mah rechargeable battery that keeps it running for over 40 minutes at a stretch. For comparison, the playtime with the Top Race 15 RC excavator is about 20 minutes. So this one lasts twice as long and offers so much more power in performance.
Additional features
The excavator toy also features flashing lights, realistic sound effects and real smoke.
TR-211M Alternatives
TongLi 1580 is a comparable machine in terms of specifications and performance, however Top Race scores highly in terms of customer service and availability.
If you’re still on the fence about buying a hobby-grade excavator but still need something decent, you might want to check out its sibling, the Top Race 15 Channel RC Excavator.
Top Race TR-211M vs Top Race TR-211 vs TongLi Huina 1580
Top Race 23 TR-211M | Top Race 15 TR-211/215 | TongLi 1580 | |
Scale | 1:14 | 1:14 | 1:14 |
Build | Full metal | Metal, Steel, Rubber | Zinc Alloy, ABS Plastic |
Battery | 2000mAh rechargeable battery | 400mAh rechargeable battery | 2000mAh rechargeable battery |
Weight Capacity | 180 lbs | NA | Can carry an average person |
Digging Power | 1.1 lbs Per Cubic Inch | NA | 1.1 lbs Per Cubic Inch |
Motor Power | 110 lbs | NA | 200 lbs |
Additional Features | Real smoke, headlights | Interchangeable shovel | Smoke generator, headlights |
Dimensions (L/W/H) | 21 x 9 x 12 inches | 14 x 8 x 14 inches | 19 x 11.4 x 7 inches |
Weight | 19 lbs | 13.2 lbs | |
Run Time | Approx. 45 minutes | Approx. 20 minutes | Approx. 45 minutes |
Charging time | 2-3 hours | 80 minutes | 3-4 hours |
Channels | 23 | 15 | 23 |
Remote Control | 2.4Ghz, 100 feet control distance | 2.4Ghz, 100 feet control distance | 2.4Ghz, 100+ feet control distance |
Additionals attachments | Heavy metal shovel, grapple fork, drill (all of heavy duty steel) | Grapple fork, interchangeable metal shovel | Hammer, grapple |
Recommended age | For hobbyists, not for kids. 14 years + | 8 years + | For hobbyists, not for kids. 14 years + |
Model Number | TR-211M | TR-215/211 | 1580 |
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a battery-powered RC hobby excavator that delivers what it promises, you can’t go wrong with the Top Race 23 Channel RC excavator. It is a quality, affordable alternative that can take on larger machines on a weekend.
A few quick tips if you are considering buying this digger:
- Buy 1-2 extra batteries so you don’t run out of fun in the middle of play.
- Given the limitations of the USB charger included in its package, you may want to get another powerful charger for faster charging.