If you are looking for the best RC rock crawler, then you have come to the right place. Whether you are a beginner looking for an entry-level RC crawler or an experienced RC crawler controller, this post has the information you are looking for.
There are a lot of things to consider when shopping around for toy RC trucks. The model type, battery pack, speed modes, and whether you want an NIMH battery or not are just a few to start with.
Read the detailed reviews and comparisons in this post to find the best RC rock crawlers for you. Enjoy!
What Is The Best RC Rock Crawler?
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More Detailed RC Rock Crawler Reviews
Redcat Racing Green Gen8 Scout II Rock Crawler
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Redcat Racing Green Gen8 Scout II Rock Crawler Review
The Redcat Racing Gen8 Scout II Rock Crawler is another of our contenders. It’s a powerful and waterproof crawler that’ll tackle tricky terrains with ease.
It offers incredible performance straight out the box, packed with features like C-channel frame rails, a low center of gravity battery tray, and a centrally mounted divorced transfer case.
This awesome rock crawler comes in a choice of orange or blue. It’s easy to drive and can be easily upgraded if necessary. Add LED lights to the body and bumpers, adjust the wheelbase, ride height, and toe angle for an extra challenge. Plus there’s a range of 3D printable parts available.
Best RC Rock Crawler Specifications:
- DIY or Ready to Run?: Ready to run
- Weight: 7lbs
- Scale: 1:10
- Motor: 17T 550 brushed
- Batteries Included?: No
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Very easy to upgrade
- Nice color options
Cons
- Batteries not included
Altair High Speed Remote Control Rock Crawling Truck
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Altair High Speed Remote Control Rock Crawling Truck Review
New to the market this year we have the awesome Altair High Speed Remote Control Rock Crawling Truck.
It’s rare to find a rock crawler that’s both extremely durable and fast (30mph), but this model ticks both of those boxes.
It has a 4-wheel drive, individual wheel suspension, metal sealed wheel bearings, and a dual motor for extra power – making the perfect recipe for scaling rocks and tackling difficult terrain.
Furthermore, Altair Aerial is a US-based company with great customer support. Overall, we feel this is one of the best RC crawlers on the market with top features and a friendly price point. Check it out!
Specifications:
- 48 km/h + speeds
- 4 Wheel Drive
- Water-resistant
- Double Motors
- Metal body
Pros
- Quality made
- Affordable
- Easy to control
Cons
- Battery life could be better
Redcat Racing Everest 10 Electric Rock Crawler
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Redcat Racing Everest 10 Electric Rock Crawler Review
The Redcat Racing Everest 10 is an awesome RC rock crawler. It has an electric brushed motor, it’s 4WD, equipped with waterproof electronics, and has multi-link suspension on both front and rear. This makes it powerful, durable, and suitable for all-weather driving. The NiMH battery and charger are included meaning no extra expense (aside from a few AA batteries).
This RC rock crawler arrives fully assembled and ready to have fun with. It’s the best RC crawler for both beginners and those with RC experience, as it is easy to upgrade for slightly more power. All in all, a solid choice and at a good price.
Best RC Rock Crawler Specifications:
- DIY or Ready to Run? Ready to Run
- Weight: 7.95 lbs
- Scale: 1/10
- Motor: Brushed
- Batteries Required? Yes
- Batteries Included? Yes
Pros
- Suitable for beginners but easy to upgrade
- Good value for money
- Performs well out of the box
Cons
- The model is a little top heavy, some wheel weights would stop this
DANCHEE RidgeRock - 4WD Electric Rock Crawler
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DANCHEE RidgeRock - 4WD Electric Rock Crawler Review
The Danchee RidgeRock climber comes ready to run out of the box. There is little to no assembling and tweaking involved. You will also be able to enjoy up to 45 minutes of fun before the crawler will need to be recharged, which is a brilliant time for an RC car.
Surprisingly, this car crawler can scale very large rocks without tumbling or even struggling. You can take this car with you on road trips to the country and enjoy car races and car rock climbing sessions with your friends.
Specifications:
- 4WD rock crawler
- 2.4GHz radio
- 4-mode 4-wheel steering
- 2 steering servos
- Lightweight plastic chassis
- Solid axles
- Motors on axles (MOA)
- Multi-link suspension
- Aluminum capped oil filled shocks
- 2x High torque brushed electric motors
- Assembled and ready to run
Pros
- Tackles rough terrain
- Ready and assembled
- Lightweight
- Long battery life
Cons
- Very fragile
ARRMA 1/8 KRATON 4WD Extreme Bash Roller Speed Monster RC Truck
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ARRMA 1/8 KRATON 4WD Extreme Bash Roller Speed Monster RC Truck Review
This RC car is built very well. It is strong and durable, which is exactly what you need for an RC car. It can run for long distances, so make sure you find a large area to run it and go wild!
This is an upgraded basher, and you can tell! It is built to your specifications and should last a very long time. Make sure you keep it away from small children as it is very powerful and could be a little dangerous.
Specifications:
- Extreme bash components
- 1/8 scale chassis
- Front and read arms made out of aluminum
- Multi-terrain tires
- Transmitter and receiver steering
- Weighs 19.45 pounds
Pros
- Brilliant tires
- Great suspension
- Easy to transport
Cons
- Slightly on the heavy side
BEZGAR 5 Hobbyist Grade 1:20 Scale Remote Control Truck
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BEZGAR 5 Hobbyist Grade 1:20 Scale Remote Control Truck Review
This RC rock crawler is small, but it sure is impressive! It is a lot faster than it looks, so make sure you learn how to control it properly before letting it loose at full speed.
Due to its compact size, it is the RC car of choice for people who want something to play outside and indoors. Why not make some homemade obstacle sources and check out its abilities in the house on a rainy day?!
Specifications:
- 1:20 High-Speed RC Truck
- Equipped with a headlight
- A chassis
- Reinforced body frame
- Hobbyist grade brushed motor
- IPX5 level waterproof standard
Pros
- Splashproof
- Compact
- Designed for beginners
- Great for indoor and outdoor play
Cons
- Very small
- Not completely waterproof
Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer
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Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3 RC Rock Racer Review
You don’t need to worry about damaging this rock racer because if something gets damaged, it is very easy to repair. It is very powerful and works brilliantly on dirt, gravel, and concrete.
If you want to upgrade parts as you go along, then you can, which is a really cool thing to do. Upgrading parts makes you feel like you have a new one every time you add something new.
Specifications:
- 1/18 scale radio control side-by-side all-terrain vehicle
- Adjustable Coilover oil-filled shocks
- Metal gear servo
- 37T 380 waterproof brushed motor
- Hinged body mount for easy electronics access
- Independent front suspension
- Three-link rear suspension
Pros
- Amazing suspension
- Lightweight
- Easy to drive
- Durable
- Interchangeable parts
Cons
- Not waterproof
SZJJX RC Cars Off-Road Remote Control Truck
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SZJJX RC Cars Off-Road Remote Control Truck Review
The SZJJX Off Road RC Truck is a powerful 1:18 scale rock crawler that’s specifically designed to be durable and long-lasting. Built with high-quality materials and fixed with dozens of screws, this RC is made to last.
With high-quality rubber tires that are easy to adjust, this RC is very versatile. It’s easy to drive on uneven terrain, and it boasts extremely strong skid resistance so there’s no danger of slipping on wet roads.
This RC has full-function pro steering to allow you to easily turn and accelerate. The 2.4Ghz wireless remote can control the truck up to 100m away, and it can be used with other RCs in the same area with no interference.
Specifications:
- DIY or Ready to Run?: Ready to run
- Weight: 1.2kgs
- Scale: 1:18
- Motor: 540 brushed motor
- Batteries Included?: Yes
Pros
- Control up to 100m away
- Strong climbing capacity
- Very durable parts and exterior
Cons
- Best for less experienced drivers
Axial SCX10 Deadbolt 4WD RC Rock Crawler
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Axial SCX10 Deadbolt 4WD RC Rock Crawler Review
Next up is the Axial SCX10 which has provided me with hours of fun from the get-go. This model includes a rock-solid transmission with a protective cover to protect the gears from dirt and debris, as well as 1.9 Walker Evans Racing wheels and Maxxis Trepador tires for high-performance rock scaling.
In terms of the usual RC features, the Axial SCX10 includes everything you would want in an RC vehicle, and it scales rocks and boulders like they’re nothing! It’s the best RC rock crawler for either beginners or those with more experience, and all you need to buy is a battery and charger.
Best RC Rock Crawler Specifications:
- DIY or Ready to Run? Ready to run
- Weight: 10.95lbs
- Scale:: 1/10
- Motor: Brushed
- Batteries Required? Yes
- Batteries Included? No
Pros
- Perfect for all levels of experience
- Fast for a rock crawler!
- Body work and colour is great
Cons
- Plastic parts could be tougher
DOUBLE E RC Car 4WD Remote Control Car
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DOUBLE E RC Car 4WD Remote Control Car Review
You get up to an hour’s worth of charge on a full battery which is wonderful compared with most RC rock crawlers! You will need to charge your device for about three or four hours to charge the vehicle fully.
This rock crawler is easy enough for small children to operate and powerful enough to excite adult users. It weighs only 2.15 pounds, so it is very easy to take around with you, but its lightweight body comes at a price. Make sure you don’t bump it on heavy or strong items as it may break.
Specifications:
- Strong and powerful
- All-terrain RC car
- Two powerful motors
- Anti-interference controls
Pros
- Lightweight
- Suitable for kids
- Easy to drive
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Flimsy body
- Will break easily
Large Scale RC Car 1:8 Off Road Monster Truck Rock Crawler
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Large Scale RC Car 1:8 Off Road Monster Truck Rock Crawler Review
This off-road four-wheel-drive monster truck is the perfect toy to keep big kids busy. It can be used on all terrains and is the perfect truck for climbing steep, rocky slopes.
This car is large, dominating with superior control, and looks like a realistic off-road buggy. The four shock absorbers cushion any bumps and tumbles, so your crawler will stay in tip-top condition even if it gets a good bashing.
Specifications:
- Large and durable
- High-quality shock absorbers
- It runs on snow, mud, grass, sand, and rocks
- Independent suspension system
- Superior controls
- Brilliant gift idea
- Looks realistic
Pros
- Runs on all surfaces
- Great for rough terrain
- Durable and high-quality
- Easy to use
Cons
- Hard to steer
Hosim 9155 46+ KMH High-Speed RC Monster Trucks
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Hosim 9155 46+ KMH High-Speed RC Monster Trucks Review
Hosim is famous for its remote control cars and trucks, and this monster truck certainly doesn’t disappoint. It drives at high speeds and has exquisite rock climbing and driving abilities.
The car can adapt to multiple terrains, and it even has an IPX4 waterproof rating so you can feel confident driving it on wet ground, over sleet, or even snow. The anti-skid heavy-duty wheels are brilliant and prevent accidents while in use.
Specifications:
- 46 KM/h top speed
- 2.4Ghz highly responsive steering and throttle
- Off-road car
- Two speed modes
- Anti-skid wheels
Pros
- Multiple speed settings
- Heavy-duty wheels
- Powerful motor
Cons
- Might struggle to climb steep rocks
Redcat Racing Everest Gen7 Pro
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Redcat Racing Everest Gen7 Pro Review
This RC rock crawler is ready to run, with a brushed 550 motor and Super Swamper tires.
The body tilt system allows you to access the battery easily and quickly, while the product also comes with a fully functional spare tire, two scale ramps, axe, shovel, and gas cans.
It’s fun and realistic, while also performing well against more expensive rock crawlers. If you’re looking for the best RC rock crawler on the market this might be just the ticket.
Best RC Rock Crawler Specifications:
- DIY or Ready to Run? Ready to run
- Weight: 11.3lbs
- Scale: 1/10
- Motor: Brushed
- Batteries Required? Yes
- Batteries Included? Yes
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Realistic details
- Outstanding value
Cons
- None
How to Choose The Best RC Rock Crawler
This is how to find the best RC rock crawler. As the name suggests, rock crawlers are designed to be used over rocks and difficult terrain – areas that cars or buggies wouldn’t be able to tackle. Unlike RC cars or buggies, they are not designed for speed. Instead, they are specifically designed for rough ground and, despite their lack of speed, they certainly offer a different challenge when it comes to RC piloting.
Selecting the right rock crawler is not an easy decision and one that requires some thought. Whether you’re after the best value for money, the coolest design, or an exterior that can take a serious bashing, this guide will help you choose the best RC rock crawler for you – so you can get outside for some adrenaline-filled fun!
The Need for Speed
If you’re looking for something speedy, you better look elsewhere! Rock crawlers are not designed to go fast, and this can often catch people out! If you want something that can race around, go for a car, buggy, or truck.
Instead, rock crawlers are designed to tackle tough terrain, inclines, and obstacles. They aren’t going to break any records for speed, but they’re still a whole bunch of fun in their own right!
Ready-to-Run or DIY Rock Crawlers
Buying a DIY kit is a fun way to get to know the mechanics of your rock crawler. If, however, you’re just wanting to drive and get started right away – get yourself a ready-to-run kit which is generally ready to go straight out the box.
Motors
Brushed motors are usually used for crawling, for a couple of reasons. Firstly, they are far cheaper. Brushed motors also provide excellent slow-speed control, making them ideal for crawling where accuracy and control are key. Brushless, on the other hand, gives more of an out-of-control speed feel – not ideal for rock crawling!
2WD or 4WD Rock Crawlers
Most rock crawlers are 4WD in order to tackle the tough terrains. While 2WD models are often cheaper, it may limit the terrain you can use your crawler on. All the RCs on this list are 4WD.
Rock Crawler FAQ
Rock crawling is a fun activity for anyone that loves an adrenaline-filled four-wheel drive experience. High-speed and high-quality rock crawlers are packed with features such as LED lights, great radio systems, and electric motors that can be driven through rough terrain.
Now it is time to answer a few frequently asked questions that many hobbyists have about rock crawlers. We hope the following questions and answers help you find the right rock crawler for you!
Q: Is rock crawling easy?
A: Rock crawling is difficult to get the hang of at first, but once you get into it, it becomes very easy.
Q: Can I get rock crawlers from Amazon?
A: Yes, you can purchase rock crawlers from Amazon.
Q: Should I rock crawl on a rock crawling trail?
A: You can, but rock crawling on a rock crawling trail is not mandatory.
Q: What is the best RC crawler?
A: The Traxxas’ TRX4 is considered to be one of the best crawlers on the market.
Q: Are high-torque RC crawlers any good?
A: Absolutely!
Q: How fast can an RC crawler go?
A: Most RC crawlers can go over 50 miles per hour.
Q: What is a rock crawler?
A: Rock crawlers are four-wheel vehicles that are driven on rough and rocky terrain.
Q: Is rock crawling fun?
A: Rock crawling is an extremely fun activity that is full of adrenaline and action.
Q: Can you drive RC cars in the snow?
A: Some RC cars can be driven in the snow; however, these cars have special features and designs to make them safe and suitable for these weather conditions.
Q: Can you drive an electric RC in the rain?
A: No. Do not drive electric rock crawlers in the rain. This can be very dangerous, and even lethal!
Q: Do I need permission to drive a rock crawler on private land?
A: Yes, you should always ask for permission from the landowner before entering private land.