If you've just caught the RC car bug, welcome — it's an addictive hobby and one we've been selling and talking about since 1980. But walking into the world of radio control for the first time can be a bit overwhelming. There are dozens of brands, hundreds of models, and a lot of jargon to get your head around.
This guide is aimed at complete beginners. We'll cover the basics — RTR vs kit cars, electric vs nitro, scale sizes, and what you can expect to spend — so you can make a sensible first purchase rather than an expensive mistake.
RTR vs Kit: What's the Difference?
The first decision you'll face is whether to buy a Ready-To-Run (RTR) model or a kit that you build yourself.
Ready-To-Run (RTR)
RTR cars come fully assembled and ready to drive, usually just needing a battery charge before you're off. For most beginners, this is the right choice. You don't have to worry about assembly, and you're not going to accidentally fit something in the wrong place before you even turn a wheel.
RTR models have improved enormously over the past decade. What you get out of the box today is far more capable and durable than the equivalent from ten years ago. Brands like Traxxas and ARRMA have made RTR a genuinely serious option, not just a shortcut.
Kit Builds
Kit cars require you to build the car from components — chassis, suspension, drivetrain, electronics. It takes time and mechanical confidence, but you come away knowing exactly how your car works. When something breaks (and something always does eventually), you'll know how to fix it. Kits also tend to offer more tuning options.
For absolute beginners, a kit can be frustrating if you're just itching to drive. We'd usually suggest starting RTR and picking up a kit once you've got a feel for the hobby.
Electric vs Nitro: Which Should You Choose?
Electric RC Cars
Electric is the dominant choice for beginners and experienced drivers alike. Modern brushless motors are fast, quiet (enough), and require relatively little maintenance. You charge a LiPo or NiMH battery, drive, recharge, repeat. There's no fiddling with fuel mix, glow plugs, or engine break-in procedures.
Electric cars are also cleaner to run — no fuel smell, no mess, and easier to use indoors. Running costs are lower over time once you have the initial battery investment sorted.
Nitro RC Cars
Nitro cars run on a methanol-based fuel and have a small internal combustion engine. They sound incredible — there's a mechanical noise and smell that electric simply can't replicate — and they can be refuelled quickly in the field. For many enthusiasts, that experience is the whole point.
That said, nitro is genuinely more demanding. The engine needs breaking in, tuning, and regular maintenance. Glow plugs need replacing. Cold weather can affect starting. For a first RC car, we'd generally steer people toward electric unless they're specifically drawn to the nitro experience.
Scale Sizes Explained
RC cars come in different scales, which affects their size, performance, and cost.
- 1/10 scale — The most popular scale for on-road and off-road cars. Good size for driving, plenty of parts and upgrades available. A solid all-round choice.
- 1/8 scale — Larger and generally faster. More expensive but a fantastic experience. Popular with serious off-road and buggy drivers.
- 1/12 and 1/16 scale — Smaller and more affordable. Can be a good entry point, especially for younger drivers or tighter spaces. Some 1/16 trucks from Traxxas punch well above their price.
- 1/5 scale — Big, powerful, and expensive. Usually reserved for petrol-engined cars. Not where most people start.
For most first-time buyers, 1/10 electric is where we'd point you.
Budget: What Do You Actually Need to Spend?
You can pick up a basic electric RTR car for around £80-£150. At this price, you're getting something that's fun to drive but will have limitations in terms of speed, durability, and upgradability.
Spending £150-£300 gets you into the proper hobby-grade market — cars from brands like ARRMA, Traxxas, and ECX that are genuinely built to last and can be repaired and upgraded. This is where we'd usually suggest most people start if they're serious about the hobby.
Above £300 you're looking at higher-end RTR models and entry-level kits. There's no ceiling in this hobby — you can spend a lot if you want to.
Don't forget to factor in a battery charger if one isn't included, and spare batteries if you want longer run times. Some RTR packages include everything you need; others include the car only.
Which Brands Should You Look At?
Traxxas
Traxxas is probably the most recognised name in RTR RC cars. Their build quality is strong, parts are widely available, and they offer a range covering different scales and terrain types. The Rustler and Slash are perennial favourites for good reason.
ARRMA
ARRMA have built a strong reputation for tough, fast cars at competitive prices. Their Granite and Typhon models are popular first cars, and the brand has a loyal following for bashing and general outdoor driving.
Other Options
We also stock a good range from other brands across our RC range, including dedicated off-road RC cars if you want something specifically built for rough terrain.
A Few Practical Tips Before You Buy
- Think about where you're going to drive it. Grass, gravel, tarmac, or a mix? That affects whether you want a truck, buggy, or on-road car.
- If you're buying for a child, check the recommended age and complexity. Some RTR cars are aimed squarely at younger drivers; others expect more care and knowledge.
- Buy from a shop that stocks parts and can offer advice. An RC car you can't get parts for is eventually going to become a shelf ornament.
- Don't start with a nitro car unless you genuinely want that experience — electric will give you more driving time for less hassle.
If you're not sure where to start, feel free to get in touch with us at the shop. We've been doing this a long time and are happy to talk through what might suit you best. For a deeper look at hobby-grade options and our top picks, see our RC cars UK buying guide. You can browse the full range of RC cars at Access Models and see what takes your fancy.