The Best RC Cars for Beginners: A Guide to Getting Started

Getting Started...

Entering the world of RC cars can be an exciting but sometimes overwhelming experience. With so many options available, choosing the right beginner-friendly RC car is key to ensuring a fun and smooth introduction to the hobby.

In this article, we'll explore what makes a great starter RC car and highlight two excellent options from Tamiya. If you want to talk to friendly experts for advice about the best RC cars for beginners the team at Voltage Models will be happy to help.

When starting, you want a car that is easy to control, durable, and offers room for learning. You may prefer specific model types, such as monster trucks or RC drift cars, but it’s a good tip to start with something simple. 

What Makes a Good RC Car for a Beginner?

Key features to consider are:

Ease of assembly: Some beginners prefer ready-to-run (RTR) models, while others enjoy building their kits. Building kits can be time-consuming and some tools are required. If you think this could frustrate you and you just want to get out and enjoy some racing, RTR models are ideal.

Durability: A sturdy car that can handle rough handling or crashes is essential for beginners. Quality manufacturers like Tamiya design and build their models to handle wear and tear, but cheaper models can soon look battered!

Affordability: You don’t need to break the bank for your first RC car; there are budget-friendly yet high-quality options. Voltage Models stock a vast range, and for less than £200 you can pick up something that will give you hundreds of hours of fun. The Traxxas TRX-4MT K10 Monster Truck is a great example, offering true monster truck performance in a portable, carry-anywhere size,

Upgradeable: Having a model that can be upgraded with new parts as your skills grow ensures the longevity of your investment.

The Grasshopper First Build Bundle

Bearing these factors in mind, the Voltage Model’s Tamiya - The Grasshopper First Build Bundle is the perfect way to get into RC cars.

This specially curated bundle includes all the essential tools and parts needed to get started with RC model building. Tamiya is widely regarded as one of the best designers and manufacturers, so you’re starting with a market leader. With this bundle, beginners can experience the joy of assembling and painting their own Tamiya models without having to worry about sourcing all the necessary materials.

Voltage Model has used their buying paper to offer this bundle at an affordable price, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the rewarding experience of the Tamiya model building. Its rear-wheel drive layout and lightweight frame mean the Tamiya Grasshopper offers decent speed without overwhelming new drivers. Additionally, since it's a Tamiya model, there are plenty of upgrade options available for when you’re ready to take your hobby to the next level.

Top RC Brands

While Tamiya offers excellent options, brands like Traxxas and Arrma also produce some of the best RC cars for beginners, such as the Traxxas Bandit or the Arrma Granite. Both are robust and come ready-to-run, which means you can get driving right out of the box. These brands are known for their build quality and strong aftermarket support, offering plenty of parts for upgrades and repairs.

Starting your RC car journey with a beginner-friendly model is crucial for a positive experience. The Tamiya Grasshopper and the Traxxa Bandit are both great examples of cars that balance ease of use, durability, and the potential for future upgrades. Whether you’re interested in off-road adventures or on-road speed, these cars are reliable, fun, and offer plenty of room to grow in the hobby.

For beginners, it’s not just about the speed or complexity—it's about finding a car that is fun to drive and easy to maintain, helping you build your confidence and skills over time.