Ultimate Micro RC Cars Guide

We’re proving that bigger isn’t always better with our selection of the best-rated micro RC cars on the market.

• Introduction
• Benefits of micro RC cars
• What scale are micro RC cars?
• Are micro RC cars better than 1:10 scale?
• Micro RC car selection
• Our winners

In a hurry? Here are our best Micro RC Cars

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Introduction

RC drift cars have soared in popularity in recent times, and micro RC cars provide the perfect platform to be pushed to their limits within the comforts of your own home.

With the COVID pandemic canceling traditional RC races and drifting events worldwide, somewhere as simple as a basement could provide an ideal location for the ultimate micro RC course.

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Benefits of micro RC cars

Whether you’re into drifting, racing, or rock (well, pebble) crawling, even the smallest of spaces allow you to enjoy them to their full potential.

While some everyday rope or plastic could make the perfect opportunity to create your dream racetrack layout for drifting and racing, just about every household object could become an obstacle course consideration when it comes to crawlers.

For beginners looking to get involved in the RC world, micro RC cars are an excellent choice for cost and durability.

If you’re looking to get into competitive racing when the world returns to normality, then don’t worry, as there are micro RC events out there too.

With most micro RC’s coming in at a fraction of the price of the standard-sized RC cars on the market, they also sustain far less impact due to their lightweight, compact size when the inevitable crashes do happen.

Given the benefits, micro RC cars are the perfect choice for kids, beginners, those on a budget, or perhaps those of you looking to see whether the RC scene is right for you.

Micro RC’s can be a tremendous amount of fun if you’re willing to use your imagination to think outside the box, and the micro RC market isn’t limited to just cars, either.

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What scale are micro RC cars?

Typically, anything smaller than the traditionally-sized 1:10 (or 1/10) scale is considered a micro RC car. While some manufacturers use a unique scale, you can still count on them coming up smaller than the 1:10 variants.

While some micro RC cars can be tiny, such as the 1:76 scale car below, and some going as crazy as 1:150, we prefer to opt for the slightly bigger options, as they provide a far more realistic experience.

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Are micro RC cars better than 1:10 scale?

Although micro RC cars can be enjoyed both inside and outside, you’re likely to get more out of a larger-scale model when it comes to the great outdoors.

Even the most minor debris can often become frustrating with a micro RC car, which wouldn’t affect a larger model.

With that said, a larger-scale car wouldn’t be as enjoyable indoors, as you’ll quickly find yourself crashing into just about everything imaginable, and given their added weight, you’re far more likely to sustain damage in the process.

Micro RC cars are the perfect way to enjoy the small and confined spaces that many of us have been forced to endure during recent times, and they’re one of the most exciting hobbies to enjoy at home.

Alternatives to RC cars

Another popular alternative for car enthusiasts looking to have fun at home would be to get into sim racing.

From enjoying drifting games on your mobile to a high-spec gaming rig with a VR setup, there’s something out there for everyone to enjoy.

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Best micro RC cars

We’ve searched far and wide to bring you the ultimate selection of RC cars that are available on the market.

Our list begins with the best cars before considering some of the more popular truck options for those interested in getting started with off-road vehicles.

Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

• Manufacturer: Kyosho
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: Unique (Length: 167.5mm, Width: 70mm, Height: 50mm)
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

Our comment: Kyosho’s MA-020 Mini-Z is one of the most popular micro RC platforms on the market, and it’s easy to see why.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy with a massive selection of bodyshells available, from Supras to Skylines and AE86’s.

Although it uses the AWD platform, this is common for drift RC cars, and they come pre-fitted with drift tires as standard.

One of the main benefits of the Mini-Z chassis is that it has a wide selection of spares and upgrades available whether you’re looking to replace broken parts or upgrade it to its full potential.

It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for those looking for a perfect introduction to RC cars, look no further.

Manufacturer description: “The Kyosho MA-020 Mini-Z AWD ReadySet chassis features VCS (variable camber suspension) on the front that optimizes camber change with suspension stroke and a specially designed circuit board“.

“The MINI-Z AWD promises a unique world of dramatic racing action for you to experience and enjoy“.

Features

• MINI-Z AWD Readyset based on MA-020 chassis.
• Special circuit board updated with optimized steering control program.
• Chassis features gyro sensitivity adjustment function.
• Drift tires are installed as standard.
• Readyset requires only batteries to be ready for action!
• Features 2.4GHz Syncro KT-531P transmitter that requires no setup of frequency bands.
• Factory completed body comes with display model quality finish.
• Features VCS (variable camber suspension) that adjusts camber in accordance with suspension stroke.
• Coil spring on front suspension can be easily replaced without tools.
• Wide range of optional parts is available to be installed.

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Kyosho MR-03 RWD Mini-Z ReadySet

• Manufacturer: Kyosho
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: Unique (Length: 167.5mm, Width: 75mm, Height: 46mm)
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Kyosho MR-03 RWD Mini-Z ReadySet

Our comment: Kyosho’s MR-03 is the RWD equivalent of the MA-020 above.

Although this RWD variant sounds like the better option for a drift car, things aren’t quite the same in the RC world, and this will certainly present far more of a challenge when it comes to going sideways.

For those looking to get started with RC drifting, we advise opting for the MA-020 above. If you prefer a more significant challenge, this could be a tempting alternative.

Manufacturer description: “The Kyosho MR-03 RWD Mini-Z ReadySet takes MINI-Z Racer Sports MR-03 concept to a new level of user-friendly design, with a RWD drive train that any Mini-Z enthusiast will love“!

“Widely popular and detailed bodies create the incredibly realistic model lineup. Including the latest Syncro KT-531P transmitter with steering trim, throttle trim, dual rate, LED control function, the sponge grip of the steering wheel provides comfortable fit for precision control feel“.

Features

• Includes the redesigned Syncro KT-531P transmitter with multiple setting options.
• Updated circuit board with newly developed control program dramatically improves steering feel.
• Highly detailed display-standard body is fully factory finished.
• Full ball bearing specifications include 7 bearings, previously an optional upgrade.
• Compatible with all MINI-Z Racer body styles.
• Front suspension incorporates VCS that optimizes camber angle with suspension stroke.
• Compatible with optional gyro unit (MZW431).
• Compatible with optional LED light unit clear & red (MZW429R).

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Kyosho MR-03S2 Mini-Z Racer Sports 2 ReadySet

• Manufacturer: Kyosho
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: Unique (Length: 158mm, Width: 71.8mm, Height: 44.5mm)
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Kyosho MR-03S2 Mini-Z Racer Sports 2 ReadySet

Our comment: The second generation of the MR-03 Mini-Z series comes in at a fantastic price with the revised user-friendly upgrade to the hugely popular MINI-Z RWD Series.

Bringing over the best features from the MR-03, this new model features a redesigned circuit board with improved handling characteristics, with the option to upgrade the gyro unit for ultimate performance.

The MR-03S2 presents an excellent opportunity to get the latest equipment with a bargain price tag for those interested in the RWD micro RC platform.

Manufacturer description: “The Kyosho MR-03S2 Mini-Z Racer Sports 2 ReadySet represents the perfect package for a deep dive into the amazing world of R/C cars“!

“With just 8 x AAA-size batteries, the MINI-Z Racer allows anyone to enjoy the beautiful style and advanced performance of R/C cars“.

Features

• Includes Syncro KT-531P transmitter with multiple setting options.
• Circuit board with updated control program dramatically improves steering feel.
• Highly detailed display-standard body is fully factory finished.
• Compatible with all MINI-Z Racer body styles.
• Front suspension incorporates VCS that optimizes camber angle with suspension stroke.
• Compatible with optional gyro unit (KYOMZW431). Volume of gyro effect can be adjusted on the chassis.

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Carisma GT24 1/24 Scale Brushless Rally Car

• Manufacturer: Carisma
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1:24
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Carisma GT24 1/24 Scale Brushless Rally Car

Our comment: For the rally fans out there, the Carisma GT24 provides the perfect opportunity for off-roading adventures with an impressively fast 8,000kv brushless motor.

Carisma has worked with the FIA World Rally Championship to bring both the Subaru Impreza WRC and Hyundai i20 WRC models for the ultimate rally package.

With impressive off-road capabilities, the Carisma GT24 is the perfect introduction to RC rallying.

Manufacturer description: “The Carisma GT24 Subaru WRC 1/24 RTR Micro 4WD Brushless Rally Car takes 1/24 Rally to the next level of performance and scale realism“.

“With brushless power as standard, and features like 2.4Ghz radio gear, a fast and responsive hobby grade steering servo, Rally Pin tires, and a fully ball bearing-equipped 4WD transmission, these cars not only look the part, they perform way beyond most perceptions of 1/24 Scale RC vehicles“.

“Now you can create your own special stage in the living room or turn your backyard into a complete WRC championship! “

Features

• KD PROPO CTX-2000 2.4GHz Transmitter
• MRS-24BL 2-in-1 RX/ESC (Brushless)
• 8000kv Brushless motor
• 7.2V 130mAh NiMH Micro Stick Pack with JST Plug Included
• Low-Maintenance Friction Dampers
• High Traction Rally Mini Pin Tires
• 4 x AA batteries for TX Included
• 5v USB Charger Included
• Hobby Grade Steering Servo
• Officially Licensed Body
• Full Ball Bearings

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Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Car

• Manufacturer: Wltoys
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1:28
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Car

Our comment: Ken Block’s Gymkhana series heavily inspire Wltoys’ K989, and this incredibly-priced budget option has taken the micro RC car world by storm.

If you’re looking for a simple, cheap option that’s capable of AWD drifting, high speeds, and perfect for navigating your custom Gymkhana layout, look no further.

Capable of speeds up to 30km/h, this is sure to provide the ultimate bang-for-your-buck enjoyment.

Manufacturer description: “Alloy chassis to avoid damage of the car and make the drive more stable“.

“Wheels are equipped with shock absorbers to reduce damage to the body“.

Features

• 1:28 Scale RTR Version
• 2.4G Radio Control
• Able to support multiple cars racing at the same time
• Capable of speeds up to 30km/h
• 7.4V 400mAh Li-Po Battery
• Alloy chassis
• Shock absorbers

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Super GT RC Sport Racing Drift Car

• Manufacturer: Makerfire
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1/16
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Super GT RC Sport Racing Drift Car

Our comment: This Nissan R35 GT-R-styled racer is another fantastic opportunity for those looking for a budget micro RC car.

One of the main benefits of this package is the interchangeable tires, where you’re able to choose from the slick drift tires or the gripper rubber ones for superior traction.

While this looks like the perfect package, we weren’t entirely convinced by the remote, which features toggle-only style buttons for acceleration and steering.

Manufacturer description: “This drift car is driven by a 2.4G remote control, you can drift with multiple cars and perform U-shaped and figure-8 drifts“.

“High quality PC material car shell, like a real car, excellent flexibility, to prevent the impact of rupture. Comes with 4 of SPEED tires and 4 DRIFT dedicated tires, you can just enjoy drifting with these tires“.

Features

• 2.4G Radio Control
• Rechargeable 700Mah1.5V AA NI-Cd battery
• 4x drift tires
• 4x speed tires
• Capable of speeds up to 30km/h
• 1x Cross wrench
• 2x drift roadblocks
• 6x rechargeable batteries
• 9V remote control battery

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Team Associated NanoSport Puck Cars

• Manufacturer: Team Associated
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: AWD
• Scale ratio: 1:32
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Team Associated NanoSport Puck Cars

Our comment: The Team Associated NanoSport Puck Cars bring something a little different to our list.

For those looking for the ultimate fun from your micro RC cars, this fun hockey puck soccer goal-scoring style game is a unique offering to the market.

The cars are designed for the included pucks (or balls) where you’ll go up against your opponent in a goal-scoring showdown.

With two cars provided in the package, this offers excellent value for money and makes for perfect party entertainment.

Think Rocket League, combined with hockey and micro RC cars. What more could you possibly want?

Manufacturer description: “If you are a fan of soccer or hockey then you’ll want to check out this interactive, strategic, skill-based sport set“.

“The front of each car has been molded to control the included puck or ball, allowing the players to maneuver and push towards the desired target. Challengers strategically battle for possession of the ball or puck, while aggressively bashing and smashing into their opponent’s cars“.

Features

• Rechargeable batteries
• Adjustable throttle dual rate for speed management
• Assortment of optional accessories (Optional accessories sold separately)
• Radio controlled NanoSport cars can be driven with precision at high speeds
• Cars are recharged with charging cord from the transmitter/radio
• Perfect for both beginner and advanced players
• Enjoy the action of fast, fun and adrenaline head-to-head soccer and hockey games
• Players are challenged to master team work, coordination, experimentation, and to overcome obstacles in this fast-paced game
• Everything included. Simply charge and drive!

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RJ Speed R/C Legends Spec Sedan Kit

• Manufacturer: RJ Speed
• Suitable for: 12 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: Unique (Length: 15″(380mm), Width: 8 1/2″(216mm), Height: 5 1/2″(140mm)
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: RJ Speed R/C Legends Spec Sedan Kit

Our comment: Whether you’re a Legends fan or looking to inspire your kids to pursue a NASCAR career, this could make for the perfect introduction to the hugely popular Legends racing.

Unlike most of the RTR (ready-to-run) kits in our collection, this requires the 540 size motor and ESC, 4 cell stick battery pack, and a 2 channel radio control with one servo to be purchased separately, which will need to be considered.

Manufacturer description: “The RJ Speed R/C Legends Spec Coupe Kit is a complete unassembled kit, less electronics“.

“The kit includes all chassis parts, tires, gears, linkage, and clear coupe body with window masks and protective film“.

Features

• Chassis: Fiberglass side plates and battery tray
• Drive: rear wheel drive (spur and pinion pan car type)
• Brass bushings for front wheels and rear axle
• Differential: Ball differential with steel axle
• Spur Gear: 48 pitch 81 tooth, black nylon
• Tires: John’s BSR brand Spec Foams (silver dot front and green dot rears) mounted on black wheels (tires have a yellow foam stripe to identify them as legal for spec racing
• Pinion Gear: 48 pitch, 21 tooth steel construction
• Steering Tie Rods: Adjustable

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Losi Mini-T 2.0

• Manufacturer: Losi
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1:18
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Losi Mini-T 2.0

Our comment: Building upon the hugely popular Mini-T series, the Mini-T 2.0 brings a powerful brushless 2-in-1 motor/ESC configuration, which mirrors 1:10 scale cars.

Alongside the powerful motor is the TLR 22 platform suspension, putting Losi’s years of knowledge at the top of the RC game to good use.

With a mid-motor layout, this provides the perfect balance for supreme handling and provides an incredible all-around package for those looking to head off-road with their mini RC vehicle.

Manufacturer description: “The Losi Mini-T 2.0 1/18 RTR 2WD Brushless Stadium Truck has been reinvented with modern technology and Team Losi Racing engineering“.

“This 1/18th-scale Brushless 2WD Truck honors the heritage of the original Mini-T with a range of updated features to spring it into the future“.

Features

• Scaled Down Version of the 1/10th 22T
• Brushless 2-in-1 motor/ESC configuration
• Mid-motor Configuration
• Fully assembled and ready-to-run
• 2.4Ghz radio system
• Dynamite 7.4V 2S 800mAh 50C LiPo Battery
• Full Ball Bearings (less steering)
• Servo Saver
• Waterproof electronics
• 22 Suspension Geometry
• Option Parts Availability

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Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler

• Manufacturer: Axial
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1:24
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Axial SCX24 Mini Crawler

Our comment: Although it won’t be for everyone, the Axial SCX24 provides exceptional value for money for those considering going down the crawler route.

Featuring impressive 3-link front and 4-link rear suspension, this mini RC crawler is capable of taking on the toughest challenges, and you’ll undoubtedly have heaps of fun testing its limits.

Whether you’re looking to make an obstacle course at home, in the garden, or somewhere out on the trails, we do not doubt that it’ll blow your mind when it comes to climbing over the unthinkable.

Manufacturer description: “Despite being scaled down to a compact size, this mini crawler is ready for some big adventures“.

“Full-time 4WD and a 3-link front/4-link rear suspension let you muscle over big challenges. Worm gears on the axles increase ground clearance, while realistic steel frame rails stand up to hard knocks. The Axial SCX24 Jeep Wrangler JLU CRC performs like a winner and looks like one, too. The realistic body rides on licensed KMC Machete wheels and Nitto Trail Grappler tires“.

Features

• Includes radio transmitter and receiver and battery.
• Comes with ESC, motor, and servo already installed.
• Features a realistic new body design.
• Licensed wheels are modeled after 1:1 KMC Machete Wheels.
• Licensed tires are modeled after 1:1 Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires.
• 3-Link front and 4-link rear suspension provides optimal handling.

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Traxxas Slash 4×4 Short Course Truck

• Manufacturer: Traxxas
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: RWD
• Scale ratio: 1:16
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Traxxas Slash 4×4 Short Course Truck

Our comment: Another unique offering for the trophy truck fans is this officially licensed Mike Jenkins truck.

This kit uses a 12-Turn 550 modified motor, producing consistent torque and high speeds alongside impressive cooling technology when you can’t bring yourself to put it down.

The Revo-Spec suspension, alongside Oil-Filled GTR shocks, provides the ultimate handling and suspension travel combined with the all-terrain tires and wheels. The Traxxas Slash is more than capable of going anywhere imaginable.

Manufacturer description: “The Traxxas Slash set the standard for short-course fun and versatility, then the Slash 4X4 raised the bar on short-course performance with category-making speed, power, and track-ready handling“.

“Now you can experience the fun of wheel-to-wheel Slash 4X4 racing 1/16 scale with high-torque Titan 550 power–the largest motor in the “mini” class by far“!

“Beneath the Race Replica polycarbonate shell, you’ll find the winning suspension technology of the eight-time National Champion Traxxas Revo and the convention-busting innovation of the E-Revo“.

Features

• High-torque Titan 12T 550 motor
• XL-2.5 Electronic Speed Control
• Revo-Spec Suspension
• Oil-Filled GTR Shocks
• All-Terrain Tires & Wheels
• Race Replica Painted Bodies
• Precision 2.4GHz Control
• Traxxas High-Current Connectors
• Ball-Bearing Transmission With Torque Control Slipper Clutch
• Full-Time 4WD With Sealed, Silicone-Filled Differentials
• Pivot Ball Suspension
• Universal-Joint Driveshafts
• Waterproof Electronics

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Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck

• Manufacturer: Traxxas
• Suitable for: 14 years and up
• Configuration: 4WD
• Scale ratio: 1:16
• Value for money:rating
• Purchase link: Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck

Our comment: If you’re looking for the ultimate off-road micro RC choice, then the E-Revo VXL is going to be the perfect pick, but it’s also reflected with its price tag – the most expensive on our list. However, it’s worth every cent.

The E-Revo VXL isn’t the kind of truck you use in your basement, as you’ll want to unleash its full potential – leading to incredible speeds of up to 50mph!

Bringing the capabilities of a full-scale RC truck into a micro RC package, the E-Revo VXL can upset its bigger rivals both on and off-road.

With so much power that it’s capable of flipping upon acceleration, it’s sure to put your skills to the test—an incredible choice for those with the budget.

Manufacturer description: “Don’t let the smaller size fool you; this little brushless monster packs a HUGE punch. Packed under the factory-finished polycarbonate shell, you’ll find the same suspension technology found in the renowned Traxxas Revo, Velineon brushless power, and all-weather ready electronics“.

“Only Traxxas can give you the speed, quality, and performance you crave in a convenient 1/16 scale package“.

Features

• Traxxas Stability Management™
• 2-amp DC Peak Detecting Fast Charger
• 7.2 volt NiMH battery pack with iD™
• TQi 2.4GHz radio system
• Race-winning, F1-inspired Revo® suspension technology and E-Revo integrated chassis design, perfectly optimized for 1/16 scale
• Patented Traxxas High-Current Connector allows high-capacity battery packs to deliver maximum voltage to the Velineon Brushless Power System
• Velineon VXL-3m Electronic Speed Control
• Velineon 380 Brushless Motor
• Sealed, silicone-filled differentials—an industry first in 1/16 scale
• Torque-Control™ slipper clutch system
• Telescoping universal-joint driveshafts
• Rubber-sealed ball bearings

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Our winners

It has been a tough one to choose our winners, as there are so many incredible choices out there, and you can’t go far wrong with any of our picks.

However, we feel that the three following products are the most impressive, and we’d certainly recommend checking them out first.

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Our Drifted Choice goes to the Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

Our Micro RC car winner is the Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet.

The AWD Kyosho Mini-Z provides one of the most impressive selections for body shell selection and makes an excellent all-around micro RC drift car package straight out of the box.

With choices such as the latest Toyota GR Supra, right the way through to the legendary HKS Nissan Skyline R3 GT-R, this kit provides something for everyone.

We feel that the Kyosho Mini-Z is a fantastic, well-refined micro RC car and a worthy winner of the Drifted Choice award.

Kyosho MA-020 AWD Mini-Z ReadySet

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Our Premium Micro RC Car Choice

Our Premium Choice is the Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck.

Although it’s a truck, the E-Revo VXL is too impressive to ignore.

Capable of reaching speeds of up to 50mph across just about every surface imaginable, this brings all of the usual benefits of a 1:10 scale RC car in a tiny, compact package.

Traxxas E-Revo VXL Truck

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Our Budget Micro RC Car Choice

Our Budget Choice is the Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Car.

We’ve provided a couple of budget options to choose from, but the Wltoys K989 is the most popular pick among drift enthusiasts.

Capable of speeds up to 30km/h, this provides exceptional value for money and makes the perfect choice for those looking to get into the micro RC scene for the first time.

Wltoys K989 Drift/Gymkhana Micro RC Car

Now that you’ve found your perfect RC drift car, why not head off-road with our favorite RC Monster Trucks?

Thank you for reading our Micro RC Cars guide.

Whether you’re looking for a micro RC car for drifting, racing, rallying, off-roading, or rock crawling, we’ve provided something for everyone in this guide, and we do not doubt that all these picks will give countless hours of pure enjoyment.

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Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

• AMain Hobbies
• Amazon

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