There are a few things that Remote controlled cars may not give you; try as they may. When you need to take on an unusual terrain, the very last thing on your mind is the kind of speed that a regular sized RC car can provide.
Without an RC crawler, all you might have is the adrenaline-fueled excitement of driving a fast RC car with the limitation of where you can take the vehicle. But remote control crawlers come with a promise to provide you the unhindered enjoyment of climbing rocks, mountains, and otherwise insurmountable surfaces with ease.
And you may not understand this if you aren’t conversant with RC crawlers; so, let’s go back to the beginning and start there;
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Before we start, I would want to let you know that you may also enjoy the finest R/C tanks to have for crawling rock terrains that I reviewed or if you are into fast cars check out my top drift remote control cars for those who like the speed.
What is an R/C Rock Crawler?
Just as the name suggests, an remote control crawler is a kind of remote-controlled vehicle with no more than ‘crawling’ prospects. They are designed to scale rocks, climb obstacles and tackle the tricky terrain. While their abilities are not limited to this alone; they move at crawling speeds, regardless of what kind of terrain they are on. Unlike most RC vehicle types, they are hardly suitable for racing or related activities.
How To Buy An Remote Control Crawler
Just to be clear – there are quite some R/C vehicle types available for sale, but the decision for which kind of crawler is not an easy one to make. There is a multitude of things to consider. The crawler has RTR versions which have a multitude of cool design configuration.
In order to make the best possible choice, the very first influence to your purchase should be whether or not you are looking to buy a Hobby grade vehicle. These advanced models feature different qualities that should also be put into consideration – including differentials and their ease of handling. Toy crawlers do not nearly satisfy these advanced needs so if you are looking for a vehicle that can overcome terrain challenges; then it is probably time to buy the best RC crawler that you can find on sale.
So, how do you buy an R/C crawler?
Simply consider the following.
- Your Budget
This should be paramount in your mind when considering the list of RC crawler options available on sale. Depending on their configuration types and whether they are RTR or a crawler kit they may be a little on the pricey side. While Toy crawlers for kids may not be as expensive, Hobby grade crawlers may be a cause for concern, so it is important that you do not go in there blind.
- Expertise
Maneuvering a crawler may be much harder than you think, so another factor that must be top priority while making your choice for a crawler should be whether or not you are a beginner R/C driver. Your safest bet would be to establish whether you are looking for an remote crawler for beginners or experienced drivers, by deciding on your level of experience.
An RTR will be better suited for beginners since they are tolerant of a few more accidents and collisions. However, an experienced driver would pick a Nitro RC rock crawler because of the independence it offers.
- Purpose
If you plan to race, well …you would be better off looking for a different RC vehicle. Except it is a few another crawler, these cars aren’t meant to run. They are best enjoyed on rocky terrains or even the backyard, in classic laid back fashion.
Our guide below would provide you with the best crawler that would certainly impress your friends and blow the competition away.
Redcat Racing Everest-10 (Editor’s Choice)
If you are going to ‘crawl,’ you better be doing it while looking good. And compared to a few tacky alternatives which do not cut it when it comes to being great looking – the Everest 10 the eye candy of rock crawlers.
But you’re probably not that interested in how the Everest 10 looks, so let’s get to the fun part.
This crawler packs quite a kick when it comes to navigating tricky terrains. With a similar bodice to an earlier model, and the ability to conform to various angles regardless of terrain, the crawler proves its money’s worth with ease; and then some.
Still, what makes Redcat Racing’s Everest-10 rank as one of the best RC crawlers available for sale is the fact that its use is not restricted by weather, all thanks to its water proof electronics which guarantees the crawlers safety regardless of the less desirable weather conditions.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Redcat Racing
Name: Redcat Racing Everest-10
Color: Blue
Product Dimensions: 18.2 ×10.2×6.5 Inches
Weight: 8.6 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 14 years and Up
The Everest-10 is also modifiable for RC owners with a small sense of adventure and independence. Its battery is quite readily available, and the battery tray can easily be opened so that you can replace the 7.2v 2000mAh NiMh battery with something you would prefer. But with its brushed motor, located at the center of its chassis, you will not likely be lacking in power or considering that many advancements. Notwithstanding, the option is available for the curious.
Pros
- The crawler features an impressive design with sports graphics that give it a little shine.
- Its construction is modifiable.
- Waterproof electronics.
- Its chassis is shock resistant because of its suspension.
Cons
- No AA batteries are included.
- Its parts are plastic – where aluminum will be better preferred.
Redcat Racing Rockslide RS10-XT-24 (Excellent Grip on Rocks)
The Rockslide is easily one of the most versatile rock crawlers you will find on sale. It is equipped with oil-filled shocks that are aluminum capped and motors that have a dual high-torque that keep the Rockslide on the move while getting in and out of the tumultuous terrain.
Its balance is attributed to the position of the battery, which is a low weight for a crawler of its size and the transmission also features forward and reverse 4-wheel steering which all combines to give the rockslide a thoroughly balanced and stable driving experience, even for beginner crawler drivers.
Redcat Racing’s Rockslide makes the ultimate crawler choice by being easily upgradable with its affordable parts and upgrade features. For the money, you will find that the RS10-XT-24 doesn’t disappoint at all.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Redcat Racing
Name Redcat Racing Waterproof Rockslide RS10-XT-24
Color: Red
Product Dimensions: 17.5 ×10.8×6Inches
Weight: 9.6 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 14 years and Up
For an RTR, you will be impressed at how well the RockSlider crawls. And to douse any worry that the decals might be adversely affected by bashing and unruly impact, all of its features are printed on the inside of the shell, making the exterior of the RS10-XT-24 just as reliable as it crawling capacity. Overall, the Rockslider just might be the best rock crawler RTR that you find on sale, that doesn’t frighten your checking account.
Pros
- The tires of the rockslider provide excellent grip.
- The crawlers motors are quite strong.
- It is easily modifiable and upgradable.
Cons
- Its servos are not very reliable.
Maisto R/C Rock Crawler (Perfect for Beginners)
For a toy grade vehicle, the RC Maisto rock crawler certainly looks like it is playing a much more advanced game. Ironically, it might turn out to be the cheapest rock crawler R/C you find on sale – instantly making it the perfect rock crawler for beginners, kids and crawler drivers on a budget.
To make it an even better prospect for advanced drivers, the model features prospect for being turned into a hobby-grade version with a few upgrades and modification allowance. Regardless of which the Maisto Rock crawler still wins hearts.
But considering its features – including the articulated suspension that is rare for a toy-grade vehicle, you will find that a few shortcomings do not deprive drivers and owners of excellent performance. Short of actually flying, it will keep you thoroughly entertained with the ability to perform a significant number of maneuvers without falling apart.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Maisto
Name Maisto R/C Rock Crawler
Color: Red
Product Dimensions: 12.5 ×7×8 Inches
Weight: 2.6 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 8-15 years
Most compelling about the Maisto RC rock crawler, is the fact that it climbs – and does so with ease. With a dual motor and low gears. That is no real surprise. But the natural and comfortable feel the car gives while driving may, in fact, take you unawares – you will find that its ability to maintain traction while going over rough surfaces leaves you with quite an experience.
Pros
- It has responsive controls and handles very easily.
- The tires provide remarkable traction.
- It has articulated suspensions in the front and back of the vehicle.
Cons
- The electronics of the crawler are not waterproof.
- No AA batteries are included.
1/0th Scale Exceed RC MaxStone (Must Have)
The 1/10th scale of the Exceed RC Maxstone would be the fit for a kid, or a beginner rock crawler driver, looking to hone their skills in the rock crawling hobby. It looks good, crawls great, and is probably the best thing you’ll find for under $200.
While you shouldn’t expect too much from the 10th scale Exceed Maxstone when it comes to speed, it does a brilliant job of running over obstacles, enable by its high torque motor, which makes the Maxstone remain stable even while tackling treacherous terrains.
To keep the Maxstone runs very smoothly over difficult terrain, the Maxstone is equipped with features such as suspension that grips quite well and a large wheel width that guarantees great traction.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Exceed
Name 1/8th Scale Exceed RC MaxStone
Color: Green
Product Dimensions: 22 ×12×12Inches
Weight: 30 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 8 years and Up
Exceed sets the precedence in certain aspects of remote control vehicle and Jeep manufacturing, so it is no surprise that we would be slightly tempted to mention their products multiple times. The 1/10th Scale of the Maxstone by Exceed RC has a few cousins that come in 1/5th and 1/8th scales. Further guaranteeing this pick as particularly reliable.
But if you are thinking about just starting rock crawling, then this particular scale of the Exceed Maxstone will not only be a great RTR, to begin with, because of its looks, and significantly reasonable price but also because of its features.
Pros
- While driving there is a tremendous amount of grip on the wheels.
- Solid axle mount also protects the rear shaft.
- It has a full ball bearing.
- Features multi-link suspension which guarantees a very smooth crawling.
Cons
- The controller steering breaks easily because it is plastic.
- No waterproof feature.
Axial Yeti XL Kit (Great Crawler with Versatility)
The fact that the Axial Yeti XL Kit takes about 16 hours to assemble; from start to finish might seem daunting, and slightly intimidating, but the resulting crawler is a beast-like vehicle that proves to be well worth the time expended.
It was first introduced as an RTR version – ie. The Axial Yeti XL Monster Buggy, read (10 top-rated remote controlled buggies to buy) if intrested. This monster buggy was modified to the Axial Yeti XL Kit because everybody knows that the only thing that can compare to driving an intimidating rock crawler is building one by yourself.
The Axial Yeti XL Kit is an advancement from its RTR version in that it is made with a lot more plastic that reassures of its durability and can house more than one 3S LiPo pack. Combined with which the independent suspension of the Yeti XL provides stability and easy handling while on any terrain.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Axial
Name Axial Yeti XL Kit
Color: Green
Product Dimensions: 30.9 ×17.1×6.6Inches
Weight: 12.9 Pounds
Assembly Required?: Yes
Recommended Age: 15 years and Up
To top things off with the Yeti XL kit, the crawler features a rear anti-roll bar. Which improves versatility, so that the So if you are the kind of crawler driver that likes to take their basher vehicles to places that they would usually have no business being, and challenge their capacity than the Yeti XL should be the next crawler you buy so that you can begin conquering otherwise insurmountable terrains.
Pros
- Features a unique rear anti-roll bar.
- The chassis of the Yeti XL kit accepts two 3S LiPo.
- It has an independent suspension system, which guarantees versatility.
Cons
- You may have to modify its battery trays before you can get your packs to fit in.
- The guide isn’t as clear and concise as it should be. Assembly may be a little confusing.
Exceed RC 1:5 Scale Maxstone (For Big Obstacles)
I’m not sure what the team at Exceed was thinking when they plunged right into making a 1/5th scale of the Maxstone, even though they already had 1/8th and 1/10th scale versions, but I certainly like it.
While the smaller size versions are not bad at all, you have to admit that there are a few large obstacles that cannot be surmounted by those models, and perhaps this resonated with Exceed RC as well, before they decided to unleash the Maxstone 5.
In every sense of R/C crawling, the model seems to represent a culmination of a few performance features that look like an attempt to shame its smaller counterparts. Whether you are scaling treacherous terrains or in shallow depths, the Maxstone 5 will have no qualms whatsoever – because the 4WD machine has been sized up to pretty much take on the world.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Exceed
Name Exceed 1:5 Scale Maxstone
Color: Green
Product Dimensions: 33.1 ×17.2×13.8Inches
Weight: 19 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 10–14 years
Much as we would love to sing the praises of the 1/5th scale Maxstone, the crawler falls short by a few standards. For one, it doesn’t have a tight turning radius because it slightly disappoints with regard to steering. But with a wheelbase that long and differentials tightly locked, you would be expecting too much to expect anymore. However, while you may not expect it to break any speed limits, its top speed might impress you by being faster than you imagined.
Pros
- The crawler has a remarkably light weight chassis.
- It features excellent articulation.
- The upper shock and inner link mounts are fully adjustable.
Cons
- Traction may not be reliable since the tires are not very soft.
- Because of the weight of its enormous tires, the steering servo occasionally falls short in performance.
Goolsky 1/14 Scale Rock Crawler (Awesome for Adults)
If you are looking to buy a mini crawler, you will be glad we are talking about the Goolsky 1/14 Scale Rock Crawler. The size on this bad boy makes it possible to hold it in your palms with ease. But don’t be fooled by its portability, the crawler isn’t appropriate for kids under eight years old, even though its scale makes it quite suitable for older kids.
Small scale or not, the Goolsky 1/14 Scale Rock Crawler easily stacks up against the competition by being a 4WD with independent suspension system at that size. Its 2.4GHz radio system assures drivers of off-road excitement, complete with more than 80 meters remote control distance. And with its bright LED lights, sundown will pose no limitation to the enjoyment, with visuals that compete with a feline hunter. It look very similar to a truck so if you are interested in these kid of toys, check out my review of the top R/C trucks for sale you should know about.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Goolsky
Name Goolsky 1/14 Scale Rock Crawler
Color: Red
Product Dimensions: 18.5 ×10.2×10Inches
Weight: 4.4 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 8 years and up
It doesn’t stop there with the Goolsky 1/14 Scale Rock Crawler. On the exterior, it is thoroughly equipped with an outstanding, graphic design to complete with rubber tires that are not only large but abrasion resistant as well. And going back in, its control motor provides incredible power and high revolution. All in all, it would make the perfect way to spend a Sunday evening, don’t you think?
Pros
- It is the cheapest item on this list (Under $50).
- Has bright LED lights.
- Its tires are abrasion resistant.
Cons
- It comes with a battery cable in the truck – which would be wonderful, if it wasn’t so short.
DeXop High-Speed RC (Ideal for Teenagers)
Looking for a mini crawler for kids 12 years and above? You found it. But never mind that the DeXop HighSpeed RC is for kids – any standard doesn’t compromise its quality, and it is quite capable of providing sufficient means to attack an conquer obstacle courses and rough terrain, aided by its powerful brushed motor.
However, don’t expect too much from it, while the High-speed remote control might be built to last, it won’t outperform any hobby grade crawlers – not by the least standard, but this doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy it completely when you engage. Don’t be hesitant to engage in as much crawling and bashing – it might not rank among the top performers, but it certainly won’t be bursting at its seams if you put it to work.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: DeXop
Name DeXop High-Speed RC
Color: Blue
Product Dimensions: 6.3×9.1×16.9Inches
Weight: 3.1 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 14 years and Up
Limitations aside the DeXop High-Speed RC is not half bad. With an adequately durable and rechargeable battery, topped off by a heavy-duty servo, the vehicle will conquer quite a few obstacles and terrains. Not to mention, its anti-shock feature that makes it stable and quite the entertaining performer.
Pros
- The DeXop High-speed RC Costs under $200.
- It has a heavy-duty rock crawling servo.
- It comes fully-equipped with a powerful brushed motor.
Cons
- Plastic parts are easily breakable.
- Only performs at Toy-grade level.
Team Losi Night 2.0 RTR (Most Durable)
Maybe what you need is an RC vehicle that is built for the long-haul. Well, here you are – the Team Losi Nightcrawler is what you’ve been looking for.
If you are conversant with RC vehicles, then a primary concern you would have is finding RC crawlers with electronics that are compatible with LiPo batteries. In the case of the Night Crawler, however, you shouldn’t have to worry too much, its programming is unique such that its Electronic speed controller is suitable for LiPo batteries – not to mention, it features both a solid axle and a worm-gear drive.
And Team Losi could have stopped there, and still impressed us, but they went a step further to slap on adjustable LED lights so that crawling activities will not be hindered by darkness, and a powerful 35T motor; somehow managing to cram all that technological goodness into a remarkable chassis that comes shockproof.
Need I say more?
Product Specs
Manufacturer: Team Losi Night
Name Team Losi Night 2.0 RTR
Color: Red
Product Dimensions: 25 ×13.5×9.3Inches
Weight: 5 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 14 years and Up
Considering that the Night Crawler comes preassembled and ready to wreak havoc; it is probably one of the most advanced RTR models on our list, and when you slap in some batteries (after picking up a charger of course), you would be ready for some action.
Pros
- Its battery tray is very easily accessible – making modifications a walk in the park.
- To prevent wear and tear, it is equipped with twin aluminum plate chassis.
- Also, has waterproof electronics.
Cons
- Batteries and charger do not come included.
- There isn’t a lot of aftermath support from Teal Losi for the crawler.
SZJJX (Superb for Off-road)
Let me just cut to the chase and let you know that the SZJJX RC is your best bet if you are looking for something that would encourage interaction and still let you have some cool crawling fun.
Rock crawler racing? Yes, please!
And the SZJJX RC features a 2.4Ghz radio system that lets up to three people play with their cars at once.
But all of this would be unimportant if it didn’t come with a shock proof chassis and reliable brake that guarantees that the internal components will remain intact if you begin racing and get carried away with some reckless bashing fun. So, that certainly counts for something.
More to its appeal, the SZJJX RC allows for steering adjustment and control – not that you will need it very much since it has exceptional traction so that you can get a little adventurous on the more challenging terrain, and still get away with it.
Product Specs
Manufacturer: SZJJX
Name SZJJX RC Off-Road Rock Crawler
Color: Black
Product Dimensions: 9.1 ×6.7×5.9Inches
Weight: 2 Pounds
Assembly Required?: No
Recommended Age: 8 years and Up
Sure, the SZJJX RC does fall short in a few aspects, beginning from its non-water proof electronics to its not-so-impressive battery time; but it is modifiable, and the battery upgradable – so you should have no problem tweaking it to suit your particular need.
Pros
- The Crawler comes equipped with a brake feature.
- It features an impressive shockproof function.
- It comes equipped with Independent Suspension.
- The 2.4Ghz radio system that lets up to three people play with their cars at once.
Cons
- Its electronics are not waterproof.
- Battery time is not exactly impressive.
Well?
Okay, there are far too many rock crawler RC options between rock crawler RTR’s and Nitro powered option, to narrow down the best rock crawler RC to just one. But taking into consideration that rock crawlers are not meant to speed drive, but crawl over obstacles – keep an eye out for vehicles that survive the most rugged terrains, that might just be the best RC rock crawler for you.
Other than that, extra quality features such as a robust and shock tolerant outer shell, and durability should also be at the top of your list when you are shopping – what is essential is that you can go out into the field, enjoy a ride and return with the rock crawler intact.
However, since your expectations of your ideal rock crawler may be different from ours, consider making a checklist of all the most important features – including the suspension system, proper clearance, powerful motors and soft tires; remember to check them as you filter through the options of RC crawlers available for sale. If you are interested in regular cars read my currently recommendations at RC Rank.
Ultimately, an RC rock crawler must provide you with an excellent value for your money considering you might be shelling out quite a few bucks for it.
And given our list of options, you should have no problem finding one that is suitable for you – think about it; you asked for the best RC rock crawler, and we gave you 10.
