5 Best Traxxas RC Cars and Trucks of 2023

How great are Traxxas RC cars. For starters, Michael Stallone set a Guinness world record with his Traxxas RC car.

What was the record? The greatest distance drove over water by a remote-controlled car. He drove his Traxxas X-MAXX RC car across .95 miles of water!

Do you want to have a blast with Traxxas RC cars? Then you’re in the right place! Providing drivers with some of the top speeds around, and incredible features, Traxxas cars can be the ultimate pastime. In fact, they are the only RC car brand to own the world jump record!

However, with so many models to choose from, figuring out which car to buy can be tricky. To help make things easier, we’ve put together this complete guide all about the different car body styles, features, driving abilities, and more.

Our Top Picks and Key Takeaways

• Traxxas Slash 4X4
  • Reviews: 700+
  • Customer Rating: 4.8/5
  • Price: $449
• Traxxas Rustler 4X4
  • Reviews: 300+
  • Customer Rating: 4.7/5
  • Price: $399
• Traxxas X-Maxx 8S
  • Reviews: 200+
  • Customer Rating: 4.9/5
  • Price: $899
• Traxxas TRX-4 Sport
  • Reviews: 150+
  • Customer Rating: 4.8/5
  • Price: $359
• Traxxas Stampede 4X4
  • Reviews: 100+
  • Customer Rating: 4.7/5
  • Price: $319

This article provides a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts interested in purchasing Traxxas RC cars. Our expert team emphasizes the significance of Traxxas RC cars, highlighting achievements like setting a Guinness world record for the greatest distance driven over water by a remote-controlled car.

After that, our team will provide some insights into the features to look for when buying an RC car, such as durability, speed, battery life, control range, and more.

We also want to make sure to differentiate between nitro and electric models. Our suggestion is that beginners and young children opt for electric models due to their simplicity and ease of use. After that, we will list in detail the top Traxxas RC cars and trucks of 2023, providing reviews, ratings, and prices for each model.

Finally, our Traxxas buyers guide concludes by encouraging readers to choose a model that brings them joy and aligns with their preferences. Read on to learn everything you need to know to purchase Traxxas RC cars with confidence.

Traxxas RC Buyers Guide

Are you just getting started with Traxxas RC cars? Then you’ll want to understand all of the different features that Traxxas models have to offer. For most people, it comes down to speed. Here’s an idea of how some of the top rated Traxxas cars and trucks stack up!

Model	Top Speed	Run Time
Traxxas X0-1	100+ MPH	20-30 minutes
Traxxas Aton Plus Quadcopter	50+ MPH	20-25 minutes
Traxxas E-Revo	50+ MPH	20-30 minutes
Traxxas Rustler 4×4 VXL	65+ MPH	20-25 minutes
Traxxas Bandit VXL	70+ MPH	15-20 minutes
Traxxas Stampede 4×4 VXL	60+ MPH	20-25 minutes
Traxxas Summit	25+ MPH	20-25 minutes
Traxxas Slash 4×4 VXL	60+ MPH	20-25 minutes
Traxxas Spartan	50+ MPH	10-15 minutes
Traxxas TRX-4	20+ MPH	20-30 minutes

Looking to start off a little slower? The best Traxxas RC cars for beginners are the ones with a training mode and limited speed. The training mode can be a tremendous learning tool when you’re just starting out.

You’ll be able to reduce the speed of your car so that you can familiarize yourself with the different controls. You also won’t have to worry about tiptoeing around as you perfect your driving skills.

Features that Set Traxxas Apart

Since there are a lot of other models to consider, we suggest narrowing down your choices by looking at the key features. Ultimately, this is what sets the Traxxas RC company above the competition. Look at the style, power type, scale, and color of the different models.

Along with the features, you can also consider the different price points. Some Traxxas models cost under $200. The more expensive models can cost well over the $500 mark.

Here’s a few of the most important features to look for:

• Durability
• Speed
• Battery life
• Control range
• Suspension
• Tires
• Ease of maintenance
• Upgrades
• Price

If you know how to make a budget and stick to it, buying high-priced models can be easy. However, sometimes, a lower-end model makes the most sense when you’re just starting.

You’ll be able to work through all of the hurdles of learning the controls without worrying about damaging your investment. As you become more confident in your driving skills, you can start to upgrade to higher-end models.

Stability Management Features

Do you already know how to drive a Traxxas RC car at top speeds? If not, check out these tips to make life easier.

Using the Traxxas stability management, you’ll be able to practice illustrating acceleration. Traxxas stability management lets you take your car on slippery surfaces without losing control. You’ll be able to drive your buggy across dirt, ice, snow, and even smooth concrete.

The Traxxas stability management can sense whatever direction your vehicle is going in. Then the stability management feature will provide corrections. You’ll have full-throttle acceleration without any spin-ups or fishtailing.

Whenever your corner, your stability management feature will be able to correct the vehicle’s line. By lining up your car, you’ll be able to enjoy the fastest exit speeds. You’ll also be able to improve breaking by keeping your car along the arrow-straight line until you’re ready to come to a stop.

The stability management feature will do all this without intruding on your driving fun or causing unwanted side effects. You can also fine-tune your Traxxas stability management feature or turn it off completely.

Fine-tune the management feature when you’re going across different surfaces to have the best handling abilities. You might not even realize how much your stability management feature is helping you until you try driving without it!

Fully Assembled Models

Whether you choose to get a nitro or electric powered tracks for this car, we suggest finding one entirely made and prepared to run. When the bodies are painted and trimmed, you’ll be able to hit the road right away.

You’ll also want to look for vehicles with the radio systems already installed and adjusted since this will save you a ton of time. You won’t have to worry about any complicated assembly or messy paint jobs to deal with. Simply take your car out of the box, charge it up, put on a few decals, and be all set.

A few models will require gluing for the tires, but this is usually easy. You’ll also find that nitro models must be fueled and primed, which is also easy. You can reach out to a hobby dealer to get you set up with the right equipment as you start on your Traxxas journey.

Different Body Styles

Do you know what type of body style you’d like for your Traxxas remote control car? Here are a few of the most popular body styles to choose from:

• Racecar style
• Buggy
• Truck

Each style brings its benefits. For instance, the truck will be a more durable body style than the buggy. However, the buggy’s strategically placed wheels will make it easy, perfect for handling tight turns.

Of course, the race car is the ultimate choice if you’re looking to go as fast as possible! If you’re having trouble deciding what the best Traxxas RC cars are for beginners, don’t worry. 

Remember, Traxxas has made several RC cars, including monster trucks, Rock crawlers, stadium tricks, etc. No matter what model you get, you’ll be getting one of the most durable and fast RC cars on the market.

In other words, you really can’t go wrong with your choice! Simply decide if you’re interested in a truck or a car model, and then you’ll be able to narrow things down from there.

When you’re just starting, we suggest trying an RC car. A couple of the best RC cars for beginners include the Traxxas MAXX and the Traxxas rustler 4×4 VXL RC car. These models will provide you with a four-wheel-drive system and some of the best durability around.

1. Traxxas Rustler 4×4 Vxl

Do you want a car that can handle any collision? Then check out the Traxxas Rustler VXL. The electric-powered Traxxas rustler 4×4 VXL RC car weighs around 5 lb and is 22.9 in long and 13.6 in wide. Sitting at 7.8 in high, the Traxxas rustler uses a four-wheel-drive system that’s easy to learn.

Thanks to the brushless motor, your car will be able to use some of the largest wheels. Take your Rustler across the rockiest of surfaces or enjoy driving it along with a smooth field. The choice is yours!

What Customers Are Saying

Customers really love the Rustler VXL, giving it a near perfect 5-star rating. Those 5-stars look pretty great to us ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. With an average of 4.6 and nearly 380 ratings, here are what people said the most online:

• Quality: The Traxxas Rustler is generally praised for its quality, with many reviewers noting its durability and high-end design.
• Performance: This RC car is lauded for its speed and power, especially when used with 3S lipos. It’s capable of hitting speeds over 65 mph, though this can cause overheating issues with the ESC.
• Durability: The reinforced body of the Traxxas Rustler is highly praised for its resilience, with one reviewer describing it as “damn near indestructible”.
• Value for Money: While the Traxxas Rustler is seen as a worthwhile investment by many, it’s worth noting that the battery and charger are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.

What Our Experts Found

Thanks to the vehicles locked in wheelbase, you’ll have all the stability you can hope for. The Traxxas rustler also sits with a low body of weight. The low weight positioning makes the car quick to respond.

As you start to reach speeds topping out around 65 mph, you’ll be able to engage your Traxxas stability management too. Remember, the stability management feature makes it easy to keep control of your vehicle, even on slippery surfaces.

The radio system will give you all of the speed, precision, and control you can dream of. You also have access to maintenance tools.

What type of extra parts where you have to buy for your Traxxas? Plan on purchasing a battery and separate charger. You’ll find that the Traxxas rustler is compatible with the NiMH and LiPo chargers.

2. Traxxas X-Maxx Monster Truck

Another RC car that’s great for beginners and incredibly powerful is the Traxxas X-Maxx. This ready-to-go car has a massive motor with the best horsepower. You’ll be able to enjoy some of the top performance speeds along with the most excellent versatility on the market.

What Customers Think

With another near 5-star rating, coming in a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5 stars, the X-Maxx is highly rated. After reading more than 150 reviews only, here’s what buyers said most about the X-Maxx.

• Quality: The Traxxas X-Maxx is generally praised for its quality and durability. However, some users have reported issues with the drive gears and steering servo failing over time.
• Performance: This RC truck is lauded for its power and speed. However, some users have reported that the drivetrain can strip under heavy use, and the steering servo may need to be upgraded for better performance.
• Durability: The Traxxas X-Maxx is described as sturdy and durable, but some users have noted that certain parts can break under heavy use. The bearings on the axle carriers and the tires were specifically mentioned as areas of concern.

What Our Experts Love

Thanks to the toolkit that comes with the Traxxas X-Maxx, you’ll be able to modify your vehicle to suit your needs. The toolkit includes nut drivers, premium hex bits to help with modifications, and an over-molded grip. You’ll be able to use a metal center differential and rugged alloy housings to improve the performance and durability of your Traxxas X-Maxx.

LED Lights

Make a scene as you hit the road with your blazing led lights. The Traxxas Max is the ultimate card or right around at night. The light kit features an amplifier with eight channels of power. You’ll have a steady light output no matter the vehicle’s battery level.

Aggressive Tire Patterns

Take advantage of the aggressive off-road tires to enjoy night riding on any terrain. The Traxxas Maxx will also use a brushless motor like the Traxxas rustler.

The motor will give you the power to reach speeds topping out at 60 miles per hour. Using a 2.4 gigahertz radio transmitter, you can race with other RC cars without worrying about any type of signal interference. Have fun using your Traxxas X-Maxx for off-roading as well as road-based racing adventures.

Is It a Truggy or a Buggy?

What about the Traxxas buggies? When you’re ready to take your racing skills to the next level, you should consider investing in a Traxxas buggy Style car. As you start looking at the different models available on the market, you’ll notice that veteran racers refer to the buggies as truggies and buggies.

A Truggy is a four-wheel-drive buggy with a body covering the whole chassis and shock towers. At the same time, a traditionally styled RC buggy will have its front shock tower wholly exposed. A truggy will also use truck tires, whereas a standard RC buggy will use smaller wheels.

Since truggys use larger wheels, they’re more stable when turning. Generally speaking, anytime an RC car, truck, or a buggy has larger wheels, it’ll be easy to go over rougher things. At the same time, smaller wheels equate to a faster driving experience.

What style should you get? It all comes down to what you like the looks of best. You also have to consider what type of surface you want to run your buggy or truggy on.

Your four-wheel-drive truggy can even handle driving over the winter snow. Once you get some experience under your belt, you can get a standard Traxxasm buggy without worrying about tire saucing. 

3. Traxxas Bandit VXL

As we mentioned earlier, buggies are best when you already have driving experience. These extreme vehicles will be able to handle top-notch speeds that can go well over 70 mph!

Since buggies can be a little more challenging to operate, the more practice you have under your belt, the better your experience. We should just start with the Traxxas Bandit VXL. This brushless RC buggy is an extreme sports model.

You’ll be able to enjoy more power than ever before! Using a brushless system, you’ll be able to accelerate like a jet taking off into the sky.

Take advantage of your sure-footed braking power, and enjoy a low-slung lightweight power machine. Your fast rocket buggy will be able to handle pavement and road off-road terrains.

What Customers Think

With more than 149 ratings, customers have had plenty of time to try, test, and race the Bandit. Like other Traxxas cars, it has a high rating of nearly 5-stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ at an average of 4.7. Here’s what customers liked and didn’t like in their reviews:

• Quality: The Traxxas Bandit is generally praised for its quality and durability. However, some users have reported that certain parts can break under heavy use.
• Performance: This RC car is lauded for its speed and power. However, some users have reported that the tires wear out quickly, especially when used with a 3S lipo battery.
• Durability: The Traxxas Bandit is described as sturdy and durable, but some users have noted that certain parts can break under heavy use.
• Value for Money: While the Traxxas Bandit is seen as a worthwhile investment by many, some users have reported needing to spend additional money on upgrades and replacements for frequently failing parts.

What Our Experts Liked

You can expect to put all of your driving skills to the test for this mind-blowing Traxxas model. When you get a bandit VXL buggy, you also are getting a vehicle that has waterproof electronics.

The steel transmission gears and digital high torque waterproof steering will help your truck last year after year. The battery and charger are sold separately, which is normal for a lot of Traxxas models.

Cab Forward Body Buggy

As you start looking at the different RC Traxxas buggies, you’ll notice that many models use a cab-forward design. The cab-forward bodies will give you the advantage of downforce, and they’re easier to handle.

Benefits of Nitro Powered RC Cars

Who should buy nitro cars? Older teenagers and adults with a curiosity for mechanical things should look into the advantages of nitro models.

Nitro models are a great way to enjoy pure power and a fun adrenaline rush! If you consider yourself at a level two driving skill level or above, a nitro model could be a great place to begin.

Nitro models typically use 2.5 CC 2 stroke engines powered by a fuel made of nitromethane and alcohol. Pure nitromethane and alcohol mix to create racing fuel.

Nitro engine sizes are similar to gas-powered weed trimmer engines. These engines are small enough to fit within the palm of your hand.

Unlike electric models, the nitro models are going to be louder. There will also be a smell associated with the nitro models because of the exhaust.

However, the smell and noise are worth it when you have the ability to reach unbelievable speeds and acceleration. If you’re a gearhead at heart, a nitro model is always the right choice.

Electric Powered Traxxas Cars

What if you don’t want to deal with the mess of creating racing fuel? In that case, you’ll need an electric-powered remote control car. Traxxas makes vehicles that are both nitro and electric powered.

Young children and adults who are new to Traxxas cars should use an electric power source. You’ll be able to jump right into all of the fun Traxxas cars can provide.

How will you keep your car charged? It’s easy. For each of the electric models, you’ll be able to use rechargeable batteries.

One of the reasons we suggest going electric at first is the simplicity these vehicles bring to the table. You’ll find that electric models are clean, quiet, and easy to operate and maintain.

New drivers will have more fun exploring how to handle the vehicle without dealing with the advanced challenges that nitro power vehicles can bring. Kids will also enjoy using their Traxxas cars with minimal adult supervision.

4. Electric Monster Truck: Traxxas E-Revo

What’s one of the best electric-powered Traxxas trucks? If you want power, strength, and speed, you have to check out the monster truck Traxxas E-Revo. It’s unlike any other design.

What Customers Are Saying

With a 4.2 star rating and 83 reviews, the E-Revo is not as highly rated as the first 3 models on our list. However it’s still popular and worth checking out. Customers have both pros and cons:

• Quality: The Traxxas E-Revo is generally praised for its quality. However, some users have reported that certain parts can break under heavy use, particularly due to defects in materials or assembly workmanship.
• Performance: This RC truck is lauded for its speed and power. However, some users have reported that the tires wear out quickly, especially when used with a 3S lipo battery.
• Durability: The Traxxas E-Revo is described as sturdy and durable, but some users have noted that certain parts can break under heavy use.
• Value for Money: While the Traxxas E-Revo is seen as a worthwhile investment by many, some users have reported needing to spend additional money on upgrades and replacements for frequently failing parts.

What Our Experts Found

You’ll be able to enjoy the highest level of creativity and top-notch engineering for the ultimate racing monster truck performance. Take advantage of a stunning array of new technology and the best innovation to reach unheard speeds and set new benchmarks. The new E-Revo retains all of the benefits of its predecessor, including an award-winning design.

However, the new E-Revo takes things one step further by bringing the intensity with brute strength and the ultimate driveline upgrades. Drivers will be able to use improved driving dynamics such as the more robust low CG chassis and Max spec.

You’ll discover that the E-Revo has enormous tires. The oversized wheels can handle any type of terrain you throw their way. The tough rubber can also take some of the most punishing speeds, thanks to aggressive tread patterns.

Overall the E-Revo brand new six-spoke black wheels are perfectly engineered for maximum durability and a menacing stance. The E-Revo is track-proven and uses a rocker-actuated suspension that’s expertly adapted. This superior technology makes it the pinnacle of monster truck designs.

What About Slow Traxxas RC Cars?

Not everybody wants to go fast with their Traxxas RC car. If you don’t have enough space to reach top speeds or enjoy a slower driving experience, you should check out some of the quieter models that Traxxas RC brings to the table.

If you want the slowest Traxxas RC car today, you’ll enjoy the Traxxas TRX-4. There are three different models: the Traxxas TRX-4 Ford Bronco, the Traxxas TRX-4 Sport, the Traxxas TRX-4 Scale and Trail, and the standard Traxxas TRX-4.

For instance, you can take advantage of a 45° steering angle and a front motor design with the Traxxas TRX-4 Ford Bronco. The Bronco features high ground clearance.

The high clearance makes it possible to approach some of the most extreme angles. Thanks to the high steering and well-tuned drag links, you’ll be able to enjoy a powerful driving experience. The metal gear even features a high torque. 

The Ford Bronco also has race center driveshafts and suspension links, so you won’t have to worry about losing control of the car. Equipped with sleeved cables and completely waterproof micro servos, you’ll be able to operate your Bronco in any type of weather, or across the water. You’ll find that your bronco can handle water, sand, and rocks.

5. Traxxas TRX-4 Sport Electric Truck

Another slow-moving model with the highest climbing versatility is the Traxxas TRX-4 sport. The sport model can handle any terrain using innovative wheels and a unique body design.

What Customers Think

With hundreds of reviews and a nearly perfect 4.8 rating, the TRX-4 is a 5-star Traxxas Truck in our view ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Here’s what customers are saying online:

• Quality: The Traxxas TRX-4 Sport is generally praised for its quality. However, some users have reported that certain parts can break under heavy use, particularly due to defects in materials or assembly workmanship.
• Performance: This RC truck is lauded for its speed and power. However, some users have reported that the tires wear out quickly, especially when used with a 3S lipo battery.
• Durability: The Traxxas TRX-4 Sport is described as sturdy and durable, but some users have noted that certain parts can break under heavy use.
• Value for Money: While the Traxxas TRX-4 Sport is seen as a worthwhile investment by many, some users have reported needing to spend additional money on upgrades and replacements for frequently failing parts.

What Our Experts Love

You’ll also find that your Traxxas TRX-4 sport has a heavy-duty steel frame and an adjustable wheelbase. The result is an incredibly durable vehicle.

When you add on the aluminum scale shocks and sturdy floor pans, the stability gets even better. Fully equipped with lock differentials and hardened steel and hardened to steal u-joints, you’re guaranteed to have a smooth driving experience.

This slow-moving model has innovative designs that make previous models a thing of the past. Your Traxxas TRX-4 scale and trail is the ultimate vehicle for capability and versatility.

You’ll be able to enjoy a robust and rugged driving experience while also having a ton of fun. The scale and trail model has high steering and high ground clearance.

Tackle the most extreme angles with your front motor design and raised center driveshafts. You can refer to the scale and trail car as an amphibious RC car. Whether you want to drive the car across water or cross rocks, you’ll be all set.

Find the Right Traxxas RC Car or Truck for You

We hope this article cleared up some of your biggest questions about Traxxas RC cars. With so many fun styles to choose from, your main goal should be finding a car that makes you happy. To summarize, here’s a quick table showing the most popular models, their rating, and the most recent price available.

Traxxas Model	Reviews	Customer Rating	Price
Traxxas Slash 4X4	700+	4.8/5	$449
Traxxas Rustler 4X4	300+	4.7/5	$399
Traxxas X-Maxx 8S	200+	4.9/5	$899
Traxxas TRX-4 Sport	150+	4.8/5	$359
Traxxas Stampede 4X4	100+	4.7/5	$319

Here at TheToyz.com, our team of RC toy experts loves providing top-notch reviews so that you can buy with confidence. We always love hearing from our readers if you’d like to leave us a comment.

Don’t have any questions? You’re also welcome to stay awhile, have fun, and keep learning all about RC cars and even offroad trucks too.