Top RC Cars Under $100: Ultimate Budget Buyer’s Guide

Remote-controlled cars deliver adrenaline-pumping action without draining your wallet. Today’s best RC cars under $100 pack brushless motors, waterproof electronics, and 4WD systems previously found only in premium models. Whether you’re a parent shopping for a child’s first hobby-grade vehicle or an adult seeking affordable off-road thrills, this guide reveals top-performing models, scale trade-offs, and pro tuning tips—all proven for real-world bashing.
RC Car Sizes: Matching Scale to Space and Skill
RC scales define a model’s size relative to its real-life counterpart and directly impact where and how you drive. Among budget-friendly options (<$100), 1/18 and 1/16 scales dominate due to their blend of portability, power, and parts affordability. For indoor use or cramped apartments, 1/24 scale crawlers like the Axial AX24 (5–7 inches long) excel on DIY rock courses or desks, while 1/10 scale models (17–23 inches) demand larger backyards or parks but offer superior stability on grass and dirt. Larger scales like 1/8 or 1/5 rarely dip below $100 but deliver unparalleled realism for open-field running.
Scale Flexibility Insights:
- 1/18 Scale: Ideal for mixed indoor/outdoor use; balances detail and durability (e.g., Haiboxing 18859E handles gravel and carpets).
- 1/16 Scale: The sweet spot for speed enthusiasts; 30+ mph performance in compact bodies (e.g., Hyper Go H16BM hits 42 mph).
- Scale ≠ Exact Dimensions: A 1/10 monster truck (Traxxas Slash) is longer than a 1/10 stadium truck due to oversized tires and extended wheelbases.
Dive deeper into scale nuances: Decoding Different RC Car Scales.
Should You Buy or Build an RC Car?
For beginners and budget-focused buyers, Ready-to-Run (RTR) models are the clear winner under $100. Brands like Bezgar and Haiboxing deliver pre-assembled vehicles with included batteries, chargers, and transmitters—letting you drive within minutes of unboxing. These RTRs often feature waterproof electronics and nylon-reinforced chassis optimized for crash resilience, critical for newcomers learning throttle control. While building a kit (e.g., Tamiya TT-02) teaches engineering skills, it demands $50–$150 extra for motors, ESCs, and radios—pushing costs past $150. Reserve kits for advanced hobbyists seeking customization; under $100, RTRs maximize value and fun-per-dollar.
What to Consider When Buying an RC Car Under $100
Terrain compatibility dictates your ideal model. For indoor or smooth-surface use, prioritize 1/24–1/28 drift cars with gyro stabilizers (e.g., Turbo Racing 1/76). Outdoor enthusiasts should seek 1/16–1/18 trucks featuring oil-filled shocks and knobby tires, like the Laegendary Sonic, which climbs 45-degree slopes on dirt or gravel. Brushed motors (e.g., in the Bezgar HP163S) are standard in this price tier and provide adequate torque for light bashing, though LiPo battery compatibility is essential for future speed upgrades.
Durability features separate hobby-grade toys from disposable novelties:
- Metal gear differentials (Hyper Go H16BM)
- Sealed bearings (Deerc 9300)
- Water-resistant ESCs (Hosim 1/16)
Avoid nitro-powered models—they’re complex and exceed $100. Instead, focus on upgrade-friendly platforms using standardized parts (e.g., 12mm hex wheels) to extend your vehicle’s lifespan affordably.
Custom 1/24 RC Car Setup for Beginners ($95 Total)
Building a 1/24 crawler teaches core mechanics while staying budget-friendly. Start with a WPL C24-1 kit ($25)—its ladder frame and 4WD system handle technical trails. Pair it with a high-torque 050 brushed motor ($10) for slow, controlled crawling over books or rocks. An Hobbywing 1625 ESC/receiver combo ($15) offers LiPo support and waterproofing, while JX CLS6331i servo ($12) delivers precise steering.
Tuning for Performance:
- Tires/Wheels: INJORA 1.0″ all-terrain tires ($18) with foam inserts add grip on tile or carpet.
- Body: 3D-printed Land Cruiser body ($15) for scale realism and roll protection.
- Pro Tip: Waterproof electronics with dielectric grease and use threadlock on servo screws to prevent vibration loosening
Parts List & Pricing Breakdown:
Component | Example Product | Price | Why It’s Chosen |
---|---|---|---|
Chassis Kit | WPL C24-1 (Kit Version) | $25 | Steel ladder frame, 4WD axles, and scale leaf springs for authentic crawling physics |
Motor | 050 Brushed 66T High-Torque | $10 | 66T windings prioritize torque over speed; ideal for climbing 45° inclines |
ESC/Receiver | Hobbywing 1625 Combo | $15 | Waterproof, LiPo-compatible, and includes throttle curve adjustment |
Servo | Emax ES9051 (3.2kg torque) | $9 | Metal gears handle rock impacts; fits 1/24 servo trays perfectly |
Tires/Wheels | INJORA 1.0″ All-Terrain + Beadlocks | $18 | Silicone-infused rubber grips tile/rock; foam inserts prevent deformation |
Body | 3D-Printed Toyota Land Cruiser (Unpainted) | $12 | High-clearance design protects electronics; DIY paint customization |
Bearings | 4×6×2mm Ceramic (10-pack) | $6 | Replaces plastic bushings; reduces drivetrain friction by 40% |
Total | $95 |
Building a 1/24 crawler parts list chart
This setup outperforms RTR mini-crawlers in articulation and upgrade potential, ideal for learning basic soldering and gear mesh adjustment.
The 66T motor’s 200 RPM @ 7.4V ensures deliberate, controllable climbs. Combined with INJORA tires’ 65° shore hardness, it grips loose gravel without sacrificing sidehill stability. The WPL chassis accepts Axial SCX24 upgrades later – easing progression to competitive crawling.
Performance vs. RTR Crawlers
Metric | This Custom Build | RTR (e.g., FMS FCX24) |
---|---|---|
Articulation | 80° (front/rear) | 45° |
Upgrade Cost | $0 (standardized parts) | $10–$20 per upgrade |
Runtime | 45 mins (2S 350mAh) | 25 mins |
Skill Growth | Soldering/gear mesh adjustment | Driver-only experience |
Beginner Tip: Start with dry terrain to master throttle control before attempting mud/water. Use the Hobbywing ESC’s 50% throttle limit during initial runs.
Tools Needed: Hex drivers (1.5/2.0mm), needle-nose pliers, and CA glue. Total tool cost: <$15 if purchased separately.
This build transforms newbies into confident tuners – all while staying under $100. Ready to crawl?
Best 1/10 Scale RC Cars Under $100: The Almost-There Contenders
True 1/10 RC cars rarely hit sub-$100 prices, but these three models blur the line with near-full-scale performance:
- Bezgar HM161 ($109): This 1/10 truck squeezes in waterproof 4WD and oil-filled shocks just above budget. Its 25+ mph top speed and modular chassis accept Traxxas-compatible arms for jump resilience.
- Haiboxing 18859E ($99 on sale): A unicorn at this price, featuring a brushless motor hitting 30 mph and carbon fiber shock towers. Limited aftermarket support is its Achilles’ heel.
- ECX Amp MT ($130): Worth the extra $30 for its 2-speed transmission and massive parts ecosystem—critical for repairing jumps gone wrong.
1/10 Scale Comparison Overview:
Model | Top Speed | Drive System | Key Strength | Ideal Terrain |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bezgar HM161 | 25 mph | 4WD | Waterproof, RTR readiness | Grass, mud |
Haiboxing 18859E | 30 mph | 4WD | Brushless power, carbon supports | Dirt tracks |
ECX Amp MT | 22 mph | 2WD | Traxxas-compatible upgrades | Backyard bashing |
Best 1/16 Scale RC Cars Under $100
This scale dominates the budget segment with legit speed and durability:
Hyper Go H16BM ($89): A 42 mph rocket on 3S LiPo, featuring metal differentials and oil-filled shocks. Its honeycomb chassis survives concrete crashes, while the 70% throttle limit eases beginners into control.
Haiboxing 16889A Pro ($75): With zinc alloy bumpers and independent suspension, this 24 mph brushed truck conquers grass and gravel. Compatible with 1/16 Traxxas wheels for tire upgrades.
Bezgar HX999 ($99): Includes drift and off-road tire sets plus LED headlights for night runs. Its 30+ minute runtime excels for park sessions.
1/16 Scale Comparison Overview:
Model | Top Speed | Battery System | Unique Advantage |
---|---|---|---|
Hyper Go H16BM | 42 mph | 2S/3S LiPo compatible | Adjustable throttle for beginners |
Haiboxing 16889A | 24 mph | 7.4V NiMH included | Zinc alloy crash protection |
Bezgar HX999 | 20 mph | 7.4V LiPo included | Dual tire sets + LED lights |
Smart Picks RC Car Under $100
For raw speed, the Hyper Go H16BM (1/16) dominates with 42 mph brushless power. Technical crawlers should opt for the Hobby Plus CR18P EVO ($99, 2-speed transmission), while all-rounders like the Deerc 9300 (1/18) deliver 40+ minutes of runtime on dual batteries. Prioritize models with standardized parts (e.g., 12mm hex hubs) to enable $15 upgrades like shock oil or ball bearings. As RC veteran Wally Armstrong notes: “Start small, master the basics, and let skill—not budget—guide your next leap.”
Pair any car with a Zeee 2S 1500mAh LiPo ($15) for 25% more speed and runtime. Now charge those batteries—your backyard Grand Prix awaits!