Two of the biggest manufacturers of remote control cars are Traxxas and Redcat Racing. Traxxas has been in business for over three decades, while Redcat only started building RC cars back in 2005.
So Traxxas VS Redcat RC Cars? Which is better for you?
While both manufacturers have a full lineup of cars, trucks, and crawlers, Traxxas is known for higher end vehicles that tend to be more expensive than Redcat. I absolutely love the Traxxas Velineon motor and ESC that come in their VXL models.
Redcat, on the otherhand, specializes in entry level models that are more affordable.
In this post, we will look at Traxxas VS Redcat RC cars to analyze each brand’s strong points!
Traxxas VS Redcat Models
Both Traxxas and Redcat have ready to roll models that have just about everything you need to get on the road. “Ready to roll” means that the vehicles come fully assembled and all you have to do is charge up a battery to get on the road.
With either brand, double check if you need to buy a LiPo or NiMH battery, battery charger, and double A batteries to power the transmitter. It is typical for hobby grade RC cars to exclude a battery, charger, and batteries for the transmitter.
Almost all Traxxas vehicles need a battery pack and charger to get rolling.
Redcat, on the other hand, has several different models that come with a battery and charger. Make sure to double check if you need a battery before you commit to buying a new car from either of these brands.
Redcat VS Traxxas RC: Model Comparison
My favorite Traxxas vehicle is the Traxxas Slash. It is a 1/8 scale short course truck that can race, bash and jump. It comes in several different variations including:
- Slash Two wheel drive brushed model
- Four wheel drive VXL brushless model
- Ultimate Edition
The Redcat Blackout XTE is a comparable model to the Slash. The Blackout is a 1:10 scale RC truck, just like the Slash. However, it is going to be slower than the Slash out of the Box because it is running a single 7.4 volt 2S LiPo. The LiPo battery and charger is included with your purchase of the truck, which is a big plus.
But, most Slash models run an 11.1 volt 3S LiPo. 3S battery and ESC systems are so much faster than 2S. So, if you want the Redcat to compete with the Slash at the track, you need to ditch the 2S battery and upgrade to 3S.
Although the Redcat Blackout comes with a battery and charger, its not the best battery on the market. So, you will need to spend a bit more for a 3S battery to reach maximum speed and performance.
If you are looking to start driving your RC truck right away, the Redcat Blackout is a great choice for your needs because it comes with a battery and charger.
However, you could spend a little bit more money on a Traxxas Slash and buy your own battery and charger, and have a faster truck.
Redcat VS Traxxas RC Cars : Parts and Components
I think Redcat has a solid and affordable lineup of vehicles. They control costs by using Hobbywing ESCs and brushed motors on many of their vehicles. Traxxas, on the other hand, installs a Velineon ESC and motor on their VXL and premium RC cars and trucks. I can tell you from experience, the Velineon motor is a beast! When paired with a 3S LiPo, it makes a ton of power!
Brushless VS Brushed Motors
You can’t compare brushed motors to brushless systems. Brushless motors offer more power and are more efficient. So, when it comes to components, Traxxas installs top of the line electronics on many of their vehicles. Almost every 4×4 Traxxas truck comes with a brushless motor. Redcat installs brushed motors on many of their trucks. Again, brushed motors still produce a lot of power. But, brushless motor technology is better than brushed systems.
Traxxas also offers their proprietary TSM stability management system in many of their vehicles. TSM helps keep the truck driving in a straight line on slick surfaces like gravel and wet pavement.
Traxxas Vs Redcat Durability Test
From my experience, Traxxas RC cars and trucks can take a serious beating. I have crashed my Traxxas Slash over and over again and rarely break any parts. So, if you want a durable RC, I can attest that Traxxas RC cars will last a long time.
Traxxas parts are also readily available on Amazon and at your local hobby shop. If you do end up breaking a part on your Traxxas rig, you can have a replacement part on the way in no time. There are also tons of videos online showing how to care for your Traxxas vehicle.
Redcat, on the other hand, is the less popular brand of the two. Redcat parts are not as easily sourced as Traxxas parts. If you break something on your Redcat rig, you could be down for a week or two while waiting on replacement parts.
I think Traxxas is the clear winner when it comes to durability, parts availability, and how to guides online.
Traxxas Vs Redcat RC Cars FAQs
Are Traxxas RC Cars Better Than Redcat?
Traxxas RC cars are built with more expensive parts and electronic components. The premium parts will cost more, but tend to last longer. Therefore, I think that Traxxas RC cars have better parts compared to Redcat RC vehicles. But, Redcat vehicles won’t cost as much and are made for beginners.
Are Redcat RC Cars For Beginners?
Redcat RC cars are affordable and some models come with everything you need to get the vehicle rolling. Redcat has several models that have brushed motors and 2S batteries that are perfect for beginners looking for their first RC car or truck.
Are Traxxas RC Trucks For Beginners?
Traxxas is known for quality RC cars and trucks that are suitable for all skill levels. If you are looking for a beginner RC car or truck, a two-wheel drive brushed model will make a great and affordable first RC vehicle.
Is Traxxas or Redcat More Expensive?
Traxxas RC vehicles are more expensive than Redcat RC vehicles. Redcat RCs are made for beginners, while Traxxas RCs are considered hobby-grade and will cost more.
Final Thoughts on Traxxas Vs Redcat RC Cars
I think Redcat RC cars are great for beginner drivers looking to learn how to drive and repair RC cars. They are affordable, powerful, and come ready to roll. All you need to do is charge up the battery and start driving. Traxxas vehicles, on the other hand, are more refined and come with better components and software. Some Traxxas trucks, like the Traxxas XRT, can run at 8S! That is some serious power. Therefore, if you are looking for a hobby grade RC truck that is built with the best components, Traxxas is what you want to buy. But, if you are looking for your first RC truck, a Redcat is a great entry level option. No matter what type of RC vehicle you buy, they all break down and require new parts. So make sure you research before you buy and talk to your local hobby shop about spare parts so you can keep your truck on the road with minimal downtime. Happy driving!
