There are many reasons hobbyists flock to RC crawlers. Perhaps most obviously, they’re a blast to drive and operate, requiring a finesse and finesse that’s missing from many other RC categories. They’re also a great way to get started with the hobby, whether you’re looking for a radio controller you can operate with one hand or a vehicle that’s easier on your wallet than a racing drone.
But perhaps the biggest reason for their popularity is that they’re so versatile. These little trucks can do everything from scale rocks to scout out new trails. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s an RC crawler out there for you.
Read on to learn more about our favorite hobby RC crawlers.
Our Editor’s Best Hobby Rc Crawlers Reviews
Bestseller No. 1
Axial RC Truck SCX24 Jeep Gladiator 4 Wheel Drive Rock Crawler Brushed RTR Nothing Needed to Complete Ready-to-Run Green AXI00005V2T3, Remote Control Car, RC Car, RC Crawler
- Detailed Jeep JT Gladiator polycarbonate body
- Oil-filled shocks
- Durable metal chassis
- Spektrum SLT2 2.4GHz radio system
- Spektrum 350mAh LiPo battery and 0.5A USB charger
$145.99
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Bestseller No. 2
Growsland Remote Control Car RC Cars Xmas Gifts Toys for Kids 1/18 Electric Sport Racing Hobby Rc Crawler Toy Car Model Vehicle for Boys Girls Included Rechargable Batteries
- The New Upgraded Rechargeable Remote Control Car: Included 2 pack 3.7V 500mAh rechargeable batteries; optimized 2.4 GHz Controller, responsive and accurate remote control provides steady driving experience, little trouble going over small obstacles
- Strong Plastic Body to Prevent Scratching: Round edges to protect children from getting injury; the front and rear of the body have strong crash-proof bumper to effectively protect body and frame, let you take the road to have tons of fun with the car
- Ideal Size Non-jamming Function: The 1/18 scale rc car is great size for inside use; 2.4GHz radio control system has a non-jamming function which allows 2 rc vehicles to race simultaneously with no interference, and remote controllor distance up to 165 ft
- Support Longer Playing Time: Included 2 * 3.7V 500mAh rechargeable rc car batteries, a USB charging cable; the remote control car uses rechargeable batteries, which has stronger battery life and longer playing time, so children will be happier
- Gift for Kids: Good for playing, racing or decorating; classic remote control cars are used as Xmas gifts, birthday gifts, and prizes for boys girls; each product has passed a rigorous testing process before landing at your door
$22.99
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Bestseller No. 3
BEEZRC RocHobby 1/12 RC Crawler Kubelwagen Type 82 RC Car for Adults, 4WD Off-Road Remote Control Truck, Hobby RC Crawler with LED Lights, 8Km/h High Performance
- 【Exquisite Exact Replica】As a replica, 1：12 Type 82 KUBEL WAGEN is a perfect representation of Kübelwagen both in terms of detail and function. From its doors to the dashboard, from the wheels to the engine to the chassis, TYPE82 does everything to completely restore.
- 【Perfect Restoration Of Engine】This car is a perfect restoration of Air-cooled horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. The 130 motor is in the cylinder, the cooling fan is driven by belt. When the motor is running, you can observe the blades rotating through the fan inlet.
- 【More Amazing Details】Four openable doors and mechanical locks included. Realistic 5.25-16 tires, wheels and spare tire. Full metal gears and full metal drive shaft. With headlights, TY82 linked turn signals and brake lights at the rear of the vehicle, and nighttime light control, you can open only the anti-aircraft lights.
- 【4-Channel Digital Proportional RC System】As for the electronic system, Type82 use a 4-channel digital proportional remote control system, in addition to steering and throttle control, The third channel is for the two-speed transmission controls,the fourth channel is for switch between 4WD-RWD mode.
- 【Four-wheel independent suspension】The pressed central ridge tube chassis is fixed to the body to form a strong load-bearing chassis with high torsional resistance, and the central drive shaft and electrical wiring are hidden inside the ridge tube. The position and size of each reinforcement bar of the model are restored according to the actual car test, and strive to present the texture of metal stamping with plastic.
Bestseller No. 4
Apawband RC Crawler WPL C24 RC Rock Crawler RC Truck 4x4 Off Road RTR, 1/16 Scale Remote Control Truck All Terrain 2.4 Ghz with Proportional Steering LED Lights Hobby Toys Adult
- 【Proportional Throttle Steering】Designed with 1:16 Scale RTR Version, hobby grade RC crawler is like a real racing off-road car. With 2.4GHz transmitter strength, its strong transmitter power means no signal interference if multiple players race at the same time. Amazed by its proportional steering, which makes it different from any other RC crawler truck.
- 【Conquer Various Terrains】The RC rock crawler 4x4 has great suspension to keep its wheels on the ground and Great strength for the car to move through any rugged road, sand, mud, rock or mountain road. The RC truck can move a long distance and satisfy your wish.
- 【Suspension Damping System】The suspension system is equipped with four suspension springs, which can protect the rc mud truck from vibration caused by rugged roads and make the driving more stable. 4 wheel drive motor system makes it powerful to run offroad and onroad.
- 【Strong Chassis Struction】Professional metal chassis with an upgraded steering system allows remote control crawler steering at a 45-degree large twist angle, strong torque, and flexible performances. With four suspension springs, the suspension system protects the Mudding RC Truck from vibration caused by craggy road surfaces, in a result of a steadier drive.
- 【Decent RC Crawler】Built in a 7.4V/500MAH rechargeable battery, a 2-hour charging time can support over 30 minutes of playing. This rock crawler RC is a good choice for adults age 16+ to enjoy racing with friends and share a happy time with families.
$65.99
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SaleBestseller No. 5
DEERC 1:10 Fast RC Cars for Adults, 4X4 High Speed RC Truck Crawler, 48+KM/H, Pink All Terrain Hobby Remote Control Monster Truck with 2 Modular Batteries, Toy Vehicle Gift for Kids
- Conquer with Size & Speed – Equipped with a powerful brushed RC 540 motor, advanced IPX4 waterproof ESC, and a durable metal drivetrain, this 4WD RC truck reaches thrilling speeds up to 48 KPH. The large 1:10 scale combined with high-speed performance delivers an exhilarating and unforgettable driving experience.
- Built for Hobby-Grade Performance – Designed with classic ball bearings, solid metal gear differentials, metal axles, 2.5kgf.cm in torque force and independent suspension, this RC monster truck offers durability, speed, and endless fun. It's a robust and affordable choice, making it an ideal gift for boys and adults alike.
- Own the Style & Quality – Featuring splash-proof electronic components, high-grip knobby off-road tires, and durable metal oil shock absorbers, this RC car is built for all-terrain action—conquering grass, sand, and rough terrain with ease. The flexible and tough black-pink PVC body not only adds durability but also delivers a bold, standout look that sets you apart from the crowd!
- Advanced 2.4GHz Proportional Control – Enjoy stable control within a 263-foot range, with fully proportional throttle for smooth acceleration and precise speed adjustments. Take full command of your RC crawler and gain the competitive edge in every race.
- Up to 40 Minutes of Play – This remote control truck comes 99% Ready-to-Run, equipped with two long-lasting 7.4V 1500mAh Li-ion modular battery packs. The batteries feature overcharge and discharge protection, while the truck includes low-voltage detection and thermal shutdown for safe, worry-less performance.
$80.99
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Bestseller No. 6
HYPER GO H12Y 1/12 Brushless 4X4 RC Rock Crawlers for Adults, Metal Case Waterproof 4WD Off-Road RC Rock Trucks with Portal Axles, All Terrain RC Cars with 2 Battery
- Metal Synthesis Shell: Full metal sheet metal synthesized body, visual interior and flip-open hood, taillight with working turn signals, reversing lights, etc. Maximum restoration of the simulation of the car effect
- Excellent off-road performance: the Portal axles raise the ground clearance, metal oil-filled shock absorbers and metal telescopic driveshafts guarantee a good off-road stance and maximum travel
- Extreme Approach Angles: With a front approach angle of 58°, the H12P is ready to roll over walls. Equally impressive is the rear approach angle of 46° and the passing angle of 62°, which provide extreme capability even in the deepest ruts
- Brushless Motor: When setting the auto-cruise for low-speed off-roading and hitting an obstacle, the ESC automatically recognizes the resistance and compensates for the torque automatically, making it easy to cross the obstacle and reducing the difficulty of off-roading. When traversing flat or snowy terrain, the 3650 Brushless Motor is capable of bursting to speeds of up to 15 Km/h
- Big Traction in a Small Body: With the ability to tow up to 25KG or loaded wagon cart, perhaps the H12Y is your little camping helper. An electronic winch can be added and the towing button on the transmitter is ready for you (Winch not included, available on Amazon store)
$249.99
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Bestseller No. 7
SVERTIBO 1/12 RC Crawler RTR, MN-128 Off-Road Truck, 4x4 RC Rock Crawler with 2.4G Remote Control RC Jeep Car Model for Adults Hobby Gifts (Gray)
- 🔥𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐉𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐖𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥: The MN-128 is a 1:12 scale RC jeep truck with a highly detailed and realistic body inspired by classic 4x4 off-road vehicles. It features a sturdy hard plastic shell, complete with functional doors, roof racks, bumpers, and side mirrors for an authentic appearance.
- 🔥𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞: Built with a durable plastic off-road chassis, the MN-128 rc rock truck provides a solid and lightweight structure. It boasts a 4-link suspension system with coil-over shocks, ensuring excellent articulation and smooth movement over obstacles.
- 🔥𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Powered by a strong 390 motor and central drive transmission, the MN-128 rc crawler offers a balanced mix of speed and torque, making it suitable for crawling and trail driving. It runs on a 7.4V 1200mAh lithium battery, offering a playtime of 20–30 minutes on a full charge.
- 🔥𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥: The MN-128 4WD rc car includes a 2.4GHz radio system, ensuring a long-range operation with a strong, interference-resistant connection. It equips proportional steering and throttle, providing smooth and precise control for navigating various terrains.
- 🔥𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 & 𝐔𝐩𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞: The MN-128 supports aftermarket upgrades, including metal gears, stronger servos, and larger batteries for enhanced durability and performance. Its paintable body shell lets hobbyists personalize with unique colors and decals, enhancing the DIY experience and fun.
$129.98
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Bestseller No. 8
Hylukon MN 99s RC Jeep, 1/12 2.4GHz RC Crawler RC Jeep Rock Crawler 4x4 RTR Crawler RC Truck with 3pcs 1200Mah Battery for Adults Kids 4WD Hobby RC Crawler RC Drift Car Gifts
- 【RC Jeep Crawler】：The thrill of the 1/12 realistically restored rc jeep wrangler, a high-performance jeep rc rock crawler that offers an unparalleled driving experience. With all-round simulation control, you can effortlessly maneuver the car forward, backward, and execute precise left and right turns, providing a realistic and immersive driving experience.
- 【High Quality】：The rc cars crawler comes with anti-slip rubber tires that feature stronger grip and friction resistance. The jeep rc car upgraded alloy construction makes the car durable and resistant to wear and falls, while the simulation lighting adds a realistic touch to your driving experience.
- 【Powerful Battery】：Powered by a 7.4V 3PCS 1200MAh large capacity lithium battery to 10-15 minutes per battery , this RC car delivers strong power and long-lasting battery life, ensuring extended playtime for endless fun.
- 【2.4GHz Remote Controller】：rc truck crawler equipped with a 2.4GHz anti-interference control frequency, this RC car supports multi-car competitions without signal disruptions, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted racing sessions. With speeds reaching up to 8.72km/h and effective control distance 80cm, you can enjoy fast-paced races and thrilling maneuvers.
- 【Perfect Service】：If you encounter any issues or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are dedicated to providing excellent customer service and are honored to serve you.
$95.99
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Bestseller No. 9
Cheerwing 1:10 Scale Rock Crawler 4WD Off-Road Remote Control Truck Large Hobby RC Car for Adults
- 1/10 Scale Trail Crawler: Real 1:10 Scale large remote controlled truck, powered with high capacity & high power 2500mAh Rechargerbale Battery.
- Powerful 550 Brushed Motor: Off-Road Four-Wheel Drive System, equiped with 550 brushed motor, providing a maximum traction on all terrains like desert, rock, grass, sand or concrete road, offers excellent off-road performance on driving and climbing.
- Waterproof Electronic System: High-Speed Ball Bearings, High-Power and High-Performance Waterproof Brushed ESC, Special 6KG/CM High Torque Metal Gear Waterproof Servo, Special Waterproof Receiver, with Fully-sealed Gear Cover, make the car able to drive normally even though in water.
- 2.4Ghz Remote Control and 2 Modes: 2.4Ghz Remote Controller with a range up to 250 feet, allows you to play a match with your friends without any interference. Special Mode Switch Design for different operation habits, players can switch Mode 1 to Mode 2 by themselves.
- More Tough and Durable: All Steel Suspension / Steering Links and Rail Chassis Frame improve the truck rigidity, make it more tough and durable. We also offer replacement parts, please feel free to contact us, our customer service team will response in 24 hours ASAP.
Bestseller No. 10
FMS 1/10 Ford F-100 RC Monster Truck, RC Crawler RTR 2WD Off-Road Truck with Wheelie Bar, High-Torque Motor, Hobby Grade Remote Control Car for Adults, First Blood
- FORD LICENSED Fms 1/10 F100: This F100 Crawler is certified by Ford Motor Company and comes in three paints, Black, High Roller, and First Blood, to meet the needs of different collectors.
- Reproduction of Fine Details: The original lines of the car have been carefully reproduced, with factory pre-applied window, light and “dent side” decals to ensure the strength of the body, as well as delicate galvanized impact parts and grille, with additional removable roll cage and spotlight trim.
- Adaptive Crawling Dynamics: Equipped with multi-angle adjustable lift wheels and a 2WD rear-drive system, conquer 35° slopes. Ball-bearing transmission reduces friction by 40% versus standard bushings.
- Nylon Frame Chassis: The chassis withstands 15KG impact forces, paired with a waterproof digital steering servo that operates flawlessly in mud up to 20cm depth. The 40A ESC-receiver combo delivers 0.1s throttle response – 3X faster than entry-level models.
- Compatible Battery Compartment Design: The battery compartment adopts a center-mounted design, and the cover is fixed by snap-flip, which makes it easy for players to repair and replace batteries, and is compatible with many common sizes of Li-ion/NiMH batteries at the same time.
$169.99
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Best Hobby Rc Crawlers Buying Guide
Before choosing the best hobby rc crawlers you should consider following options:
1. Electric or RC Crawler: Electric crawlers are cheaper, more economic and easier to maintain. On the other hand, RC crawlers have better performance, are more fun and are more challenging to drive.
2. Size and Weight: RC crawlers are generally bigger and heavier than the RC trucks. Their weight is not an issue while driving because of their large and grippy tires.
However, you need to consider the size and weight of the RC crawler when transporting it. If you want to take it to a track, you need to make sure that it can fit on the trailer or truck.
3. Tire Size: The tires of the RC crawlers are generally bigger than other RC vehicles. They can range from 10 to 30 inches.
The bigger the tire the smoother the ride. But, you also need to make sure that your local track can support that size of tire.
4. Ground Clearance: The higher the ground clearance of the crawler, the more stable it will be. This is especially important on uneven terrain.
5. Suspension: The suspension of the RC crawler plays an important role in absorbing bumps and rough terrain. It should be as smooth as possible.
6. Powertrain: The powertrain of the RC crawler decides its speed and torque. The more torque the crawler has the more acceleration it will have.
7. Tyres and Treads: The treads of the crawler play a crucial role in off-roading. The wider the tread, the better the traction.
8. Cost: The cost of an RC crawler depends on the features that it has. If it has a good suspension and a powerful motor, it will cost more.
9. Durability: While driving, the crawler is bound to take a beating. The body, chassis and suspension of the crawler need to be durable to withstand the abuse.
10. Customer Service: If you buy an RC crawler from an authorized dealer, you can be sure that they will be backed by a good customer service.
11. Warranty: The longer the warranty period, the better the crawler.
What else you should know about hobby rc crawlers
1. What are the best RC crawlers for beginners?
The best RC crawlers for beginners are the RC4WD Rock Crawler and the Axial AX10.
2. What are the best RC crawlers for experienced users?
Some of the best RC crawlers for experienced users are the Arrma Kraton, the Losi Rock Rey, and the Traxxas TRX-4.
3. What are the best RC crawlers for off-road use?
The best RC crawlers for off-road use are the Traxxas TRX-4, the Axial SCX10 II, and the Redcat Racing Everest Gen7 Pro.
4. What are the best RC crawlers for on-road use?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preferences. Some people might prefer RC crawlers that are designed specifically for on-road use, while others might prefer a more versatile crawler that can be used both on and off-road. Some of the most popular RC crawlers on the market include the Traxxas TRX-4, the Axial SCX10 II, and the RC4WD Gelande II.
5. What are the best RC crawlers for use in competitions?
There are many different types of RC crawlers that can be used in competitions. Some of the most popular ones include the Axial SCX10, the Traxxas TRX-4, and the Losi Micro Crawler.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best hobby rc crawlers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best hobby rc crawlers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.