An RC rock crawler is a specialized off-road vehicle designed for traversing extremely rugged terrain. Rock crawlers typically have very low ground clearance, large tires with deep treads, and heavy-duty suspension systems. They are frequently used in competitive off-road racing events, as well as for recreation.
There is a wide range of options available when it comes to choosing an RC rock crawler, depending on your budget and level of expertise. If you’re just starting out, you can find ones for under $100 that is suitable for kids and beginners. If you’re more of a hobbyist or looking for something more advanced, there are ones available for over $200. Whatever your needs, we’ve put together a list of the best RC rock crawlers on the market to help you make a decision.
Our Top Picks
- Best RC Rock Crawler For Beginners: DANCHEE RidgeRock – 4WD Electric Rock Crawler
- Best Budget RC Rock Crawler: Click N’ Play 4WD Off Road Rock Crawler
- Best 1/10 RC Rock Crawler: Redcat Racing RC Crawler
- Best 1/24 RC Rock Crawler: Axial RC Truck
- Best Off-Road RC Rock Crawler: LAEGENDARY RC Crawler
- Best RC Truck Rock Crawler: DEERC DE45 Monster Truck
- Best 4WD RC Rock Crawler: SZJJX 4WD RC Rock Crawler
- Best Waterproof RC Rock Crawler: Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3
- Best RC Rock Crawler Kit: LEGO Technic 4×4 X-treme Off Roader 42099 Building Kit
- Best High-Speed RC Crawler: LAEGENDARY Monster RC Truck
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best RC Rock Crawlers Picks
DANCHEE RidgeRock – 4WD Electric Rock Crawler – Best RC Rock Crawler For Beginners
- Super grippy tires
- The articulating suspension is great for clinging to odd contours and rocks
- Detailed instructions
- Easy to master
- Battery life could be longer
This incredible 1/10-scale rock crawler features multi-link suspension on both the front and rear, high-torque electric brushed motors, and four-wheel steering, all at a price that can’t be beat.
With just the push of a button, you can switch between front-wheel, rear-wheel, four-wheel, and four-wheel crab steering modes, making it easier than ever to tackle any terrain. And thanks to its included 7.4v 1500mAh rechargeable battery pack, USB charger, and 2.4GHz radio system, the Danchee Ridgerock is ready to use right out of the box.
- Age range: 14+ years
Click N’ Play 4WD Off Road Rock Crawler – Best Budget RC Rock Crawler
- No digital proportional steering or throttle
- Can be controlled easily
- Inexpensive
- All-weather types of vehicle
- Not the most powerful but you get what you pay for
This remote-control rock crawler is built to withstand any obstacle that comes its way. It has a powerful anti-collision construction that is both lightweight and durable. The large anti-slip tires and all-weather 4WD will ensure that it can tackle any terrain. Plus, the strong suspension shocks will provide the ultimate protection during even the toughest rides.
With its double motors, this rock crawler has a top speed of 10 km/h (6.2 mph). The transmitter is equipped with three channels and a 2.4 GHz radio control frequency, so you can easily control it from a distance. To get it up and running, you’ll need to power the transmitter with 3 AA batteries and the vehicle with 4 AA batteries.
One of the best things about this rock crawler is its suspension shockproof system, which adds an extra layer of protection to keep the truck safe during those rough and tumble rides.
- Age range: 6+ years
Redcat Racing RC Crawler – Best 1/10 RC Rock Crawler
- Good for beginners and experts
- Very durable for the price
- Easy to use and maintain
- Lots of options for your own personalized look
- A bit expensive
This high-performance rock crawler is packed with features that will make your jaw drop. Its 17T 550 brushed motor delivers a steady flow of power to tackle any challenge ahead. And when it comes to navigating rough terrain, the Gen8 V2 is a beast thanks to its front-mounted design.
But that’s not all, the Gen8 V2 also features 1.9 beadlock wheels with authorized Interco IROK Super Swamper tires for the ultimate off-road experience. With 73.4mm of ground clearance, a 61-degree approach angle, and a 39.5-degree departure angle, this truck can handle anything you throw at it.
And the fun doesn’t stop there! The Gen8 V2 Scout II comes equipped with two rear bumper LED mounts, four front bumper mounts, and four LED mounts for headlights. And with the overbuilt Gen8 V2 gearbox and transfer case featuring large Mod 1 gears, extreme crawling is no problem at all.
- Age range: 14+ years
Axial RC Truck – Best 1/24 RC Rock Crawler
- Charges fast
- Top-heavy
- Extremely sturdy
- Can easily be modified to perform well
- The roof scratches easily due to the matte design
The SCX24 Ford Bronco by Axial is an incredibly authentic and resilient RC vehicle, complete with an ABS hard body that features molded door handles, mirrors, and roof rails. For added personalization, an extra decal sheet is available, as well as a mounted spare tire. The SCX24 Ford Bronco’s attention to detail is evident in the use of officially licensed Factory Ford Wildtrak wheels and Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires.
The 4WD capabilities of the SCX24 Ford Bronco make it perfect for RC adventures in any location. Whether you’re stuck at work or at home, this vehicle can crawl on your desk or through a cluttered space with ease. You can even create your own obstacle course using holes, twigs, and rocks. And, since the electronics are weather-resistant, you can take the SCX24 Ford Bronco outside without any worries.
- Age range: 14+ years
LAEGENDARY RC Crawler – Best Off-Road RC Rock Crawler
- Nice tough chassis
- Two-speed tranny works great
- The winch is strong
- Lights have the option to turn on and off
- A bit bouncy
With a powerful 2-pole electromagnet engine, this truck features a high-powered 2-speed transmission (high/low) using a set up of wrapped wire coils. Its 7.2V 6S 1800mAh rechargeable battery pack ensures that you can enjoy hours of legendary excitement without any interruption.
This adult remote control car is made to withstand the toughest of terrains, whether it’s sand, concrete, rocks, or anything in between. Its superior steering system makes it easy to maneuver, so you can take on any obstacle with ease.
The remote control that comes with this monster truck kit is a breeze to use, and it fits comfortably in your hand. With two-speed settings and a range of up to 328 feet, you can handle this truck like a pro. Plus, the kit includes a battery charger, battery connection, and a rechargeable battery, so you’ll have everything you need to start driving right out of the box!
- Age range: 18+ years
DEERC DE45 Monster Truck – Best RC Truck Rock Crawler
- Great battery run time plus they include two
- 2.4ghz means you do not need to worry about one controller interfering with another RC car
- Quick enough, especially for the price
- Simple operation
- Low power for climbing
With a sturdy metal body and two powerful motors, this four-wheel drive RC car can climb at an incredible 45-degree angle, making it the perfect vehicle for conquering any obstacle in its path.
And the fun doesn’t stop there! With two high-quality 3.7V/1200mAh rechargeable batteries included, you can enjoy up to 90 minutes of non-stop driving excitement (that’s 45 minutes per battery, depending on usage). Plus, this RC car features a non-jamming function and a reliable 2.4GHz remote control system that can operate at a distance of up to 165 feet, even when multiple cars are being used at once.
But what really sets this RC vehicle apart are the shock absorbers and anti-slip tires on all four wheels, which provide unbeatable stability and control on any terrain.
- Age range: 3+ years
SZJJX 4WD RC Rock Crawler – Best 4WD RC Rock Crawler
- Climbs obstacles pretty well
- Runs pretty fast on pavement
- Simple Controls
- Nice high-quality look
- The actual size is smaller than expected
Get ready for an exceptional off-road driving experience with this remote control car’s high-quality PVC shell, direction control trim knob, dual motors’ impressive 45° climb ability, and realistic cockpit design. With two top-notch rechargeable batteries boasting a combined capacity of 4.8V/700mAh, your little one can enjoy driving for up to 40 minutes (20 mins per battery).
This truck features a 2.4GHz system, delivering stable and interference-free transmission. Multiple children can play together, thanks to its multi-user capability, with control points up to 200 feet apart. The four shock absorbers and anti-slip tires provide reliable protection against unexpected drops and rough terrains.
- Age range: 8+ years
Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick X3 – Best Waterproof RC Rock Crawler
- Easy to drive
- Great for beginners
- Larger tires work to stabilize
- Pretty fast
- Not the cheapest but not so expensive
Featuring an official Can-Am Maverick X3 body for realistic looks, this little monster’s independent suspension system delivers responsive handling, better clearance, and improved stability at high speeds. With tough Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 radial tires boasting an all-terrain tread, the Yeti Jr. is ready to tackle any adventure straight out of the box.
Thanks to a three-linked rear suspension with an integrated sway-bar support design, a captured pinion gear, and a small two-piece design for better handling, you’ll be in total control of your off-road driving experience.
Plus, you can fine-tune your suspension configuration using the higher and lower attachment positions for the trailing arm on the rear axle. The threaded, oil-filled shock bodies with a single coilover spring allow for an adjustable dampening rate, making your ride smoother and more enjoyable.
- Age range: 15+ years
LEGO Technic 4×4 X-treme Off Roader 42099 Building Kit – Best RC Rock Crawler Kit
- Easy to assemble
- It has four-wheel suspensions and is very sturdy
- It has four-wheel drive
- Has a lot of fun details
- Challenging to build
Get ready to take your LEGO building skills to the next level with the ultra-modern Smart Hub and three powerful motors that propel the LEGO Technic 4×4 X-treme Off-Roader, all of which can be easily controlled using the intuitive LEGO TECHNIC CONTROL+ app.
With its cutting-edge software technology, the app provides super-precise movements and a wealth of exciting digital play options complete with realistic sound effects. Whether it’s moving forward, reversing, steering, accelerating, braking, or conquering obstacles, you can do it all with just a few taps on the app’s customizable control screens.
That’s not all – the app also offers exciting challenges and achievement areas that let you test your skills and receive real-time feedback such as speed and tilt logs. Featuring large wheels with thick tires, high-rise independent suspension, sleek modern colors, and meticulous sticker detailing, this rugged 4×4 truck is perfect for those who crave adventure.
- Age range: 11+ years
LAEGENDARY Monster RC Truck – Best High-Speed RC Crawler
- Comes with 2 batteries and an adapter so that you can use both batteries at once
- Batteries are fully enclosed inside the frame of the truck
- Seems durable and reliable
- Extremely tough and water resistant
- You need a pretty big open space to play with them
This RC truck is built for speed, boasting a lightning-fast motor that propels it to incredible speeds exceeding 31 mph. With an exceptional torque punch and robust chassis, this RC truck has what it takes to hit those high speeds and take on new challenges. Two rechargeable batteries come included, ensuring double the fun and twice the pioneering adventures.
The easy-to-use remote control boasts a comfortable grip and provides long-range handling of up to an impressive 250 feet. These high-octane toys for guys and kids alike offer hours of exhilarating entertainment. No terrain is too rough for this waterproof remote-controlled monster truck, which features exceptional grip, operation, and durability, whether you’re cruising on sand, pavement, or tackling off-road terrain.
- Age range: 8+ years
How To Choose The Best RC Rock Crawler?
- Age Range: It is crucial to stick to the manufacturer’s suggested age range the younger your child is. As soon as your child becomes older, their maturity and the quantity of RC vehicle experience they have take precedence over their actual age.
- Wheels: The best RC rock crawlers will include 4-wheel drive steering with steering modes for the back and front wheels so they can navigate any terrain and crawl over any obstacles. Due to their huge wheels, they need a high-torque steering servo to maneuver in confined locations.
- Terrain: What type of terrain will you be using your rock crawler on? If you’re only going to be using it on smooth surfaces, then a less expensive model will likely suffice. However, if you plan on taking your crawler off-road, then you’ll need one that’s built to handle rougher terrain.
- Budget: How much money are you willing to spend on an RC rock crawler? There are entry-level crawlers that are quite affordable, as well as high-end models that can cost several hundred dollars.
- Extra Features: Do you want a crawler that’s fast or one that has a lot of torque? What kind of suspension does it have? How important is the battery life? Some crawlers come with features such as LED lights, four-wheel drive, and detachable bodies.
How Fast Do RC Crawlers Go?
Most rock crawlers are radio-controlled vehicles, and as such, they tend to move more slowly than regular RC cars or RC tanks. This is because the slower speed makes it easier to navigate over bumps, obstructions, and other obstacles. If you’re looking for an off-road driving experience that is more about overcoming challenges than simply going fast, then rock crawling is the perfect activity for you. The maximum speed RC crawlers are usually at 30mph.
What Is The Best Size RC Crawler?
Some people may prefer a 1:10 scale RC crawler as it is more realistic and provides a better driving experience. Others may prefer a 1:24 scale RC crawler as it is more compact and easier to transport.
What Are Turns In An RC Motor?
Turns in an RC motor are the number of times the coil in the motor turns around the central axis. The more turns there are, the more power the motor will have. This means having a higher turn equates to being slower.
