Traxxas is a brand that produces radio-controlled vehicles. They are number one in the industry and continue to impress customers with their trucks, cars, speedboats, and quadcopters.
Traxxas has been making radio-controlled vehicles since 1986, and they have only improved since. The company has many models, and it can be difficult to decide which one to purchase.
Every Traxxas model is excellent, however, there are twelve that stand out amongst all others. By continuing to read below, you will find out which models are the best for beginners, speed, and price. You will also discover what the best overall models are.
Best Models for Beginners
It is no secret that Traxxas is known for its powerful and speedy cars. However, inexperienced drivers may not know how to operate the car at its full potential. Luckily, Traxxas caters to all of their customers, not just the professionals; they want everyone to be able to enjoy the cars. This is why all Traxxas radio control cars come with a training mode. The training mode will allow you to get the feel for the car before you use it at its maximum ability. When the training mode is activated, the speed and power are reduced by 50%.
1. Traxxas Stampede 4×4 1/10 RTR
The Traxxas Stampede 4×4 1/10 RTR is an excellent choice for beginners. The car is built to be durable, which means that drivers who are not yet as skilled do not have to worry about breaking it. Traxxas themselves describe the truck as “nearly indestructible.”
One of the reasons this truck is so difficult to break is because it can be used in all weather conditions, as it is waterproof. When using the Stampede 4X4, beginners enjoy having the ability to grow their skillset no matter the weather.
Once you feel confident in your ability to handle the Stampede 4X4, it is ready to race. The monster truck comes fully equipped and races extremely well. You can expect the best performance from this truck on any terrain. Even when off-roading, the Traxxas Stampede 4×4 1/10 RTR will exceed your expectations. The rough terrain does not phase the truck, due to its amount of clearance.
Features of the Traxxas Stampede 4×4 1/10 RTR:
- Waterproof
- Oil-filled Ultra Shocks with shock guards
- XL-5 electronic speed control
- 1/10 scale
- Speed of 30+ mph
- Level one
- Electric
- Costs $319.99
2. Traxxas Slash Short-Course
Second on the list for the best beginner Traxxas cars is the Slash Short-Course. One of the best features of this car is how well it off-roads. It has a long-travel suspension and oil-filled shocks that make off-roading a breeze.
This car does well on any terrain, whether it be rough or smooth. This car is versatile and can perform well under any conditions. It has features that allow it to off-road better than most other Traxxas cars.
Beginners enjoy the Traxxas Slash Short-Course because of how versatile it is. If you are wanting to go off-roading with your radio control car, then this is the one to buy. It will allow you to drive the car no matter the terrain, which is a perfect feature for beginners.
Features of the Traxxas Slash Short-Course:
- 1/10 scale
- Level one
- Electric
- Speed of 30+ mph
- XL-5 waterproof electronic speed control
- Water-sealed receiver box and steering servo
- Costs $239.99
3. Traxxas Rustler VXL
Third on the list for the best beginner Traxxas vehicles is the Traxxas Rustler VXL. This truck is on the list because of how durable it is. One of the key features of this truck is how strong and powerful it is.
No matter what happens, you can be assured that the truck will not break. It will stand the test of time and you will not be disappointed. Another one of the reasons why beginners use this truck is because of its stability. The Rustler is so stable that drivers can even use it on ice or snow.
One thing to be aware of is how quick the truck is. The truck can go over 70 mph, which is over double that of the previous two trucks. Thankfully, the training mode will force the truck to half its maximum speed.
Features of the Traxxas Rustler VXL:
- 1/10 scale
- Level two
- Speed of 70 mph
- Electric
- Waterproof electronics
- Digital high-torque waterproof steering servo
- Steel transmission gears
The Best Model for Speed
Many Traxxas models are known for their speed. There is no slow model, and so it can be difficult to figure out which models are the fastest. Although there are many speedy models, only one can be the fastest. The model that takes the title as the best Traxxas for speed is the XO-1.
1. Traxxas XO-1
The best model for speed is the Traxxas XO-1. This is the world’s fastest radio-controlled car, as it can reach 100 mph in under five seconds. Because of the speed of this car, it is only for experts, as beginners will not have a developed skill set for dealing with this kind of speed.
The XO-1 is a powerful vehicle that can be difficult to control. Beginners must train to be able to operate this kind of machinery, as it can be dangerous to them and others around them.
Even experts have been surprised by just how difficult it is to operate the XO-1. There is nothing like this model, and Traxxas warns about the power of this model:
“Previous experience with high-power radio controlled models is required! These models are capable of extreme speed and acceleration! They carry our highest skill level rating (10) and are intended for expert drivers only. This model is not intended for use by children or minors younger than 16 years old. Individuals younger than 16 years old require responsible adult supervision during operation and maintenance.”
Traxxas
Traxxas outdid itself with the Traxxas XO-1. Engineers worked until they mastered the speed, and now it is a model for all other radio-controlled vehicles. The technology put into this car is extensive, and that will be clear to you if you purchase the XO-1.
Features of the Traxxas XO-1:
- 1/17 scale
- Level 10
- Electric
- Speed of 100+ mph
- All-wheel drive
- Integrated speed, RPM, temperature, and voltage telemetry system
- Hard-anodized, PTFE-Coated GTR shocks
- Costs $799.99
Best Models That Are Inexpensive
Because of their engineering and design, Traxxas vehicles are expensive. They are worth the purchase, but sometimes they can be difficult to afford. Thankfully, Traxxas has created models that are less than $250, so they are more affordable. Below is a list of the best models that are under $250.
1. Traxxas Bigfoot
First on the list for the best inexpensive models is the Traxxas Bigfoot. The Bigfoot set the stage for all other monster trucks, and Traxxas provides a fully licensed replica of the truck.
There is a lot of excitement surrounding the Bigfoot, and it brings back many reminiscent memories for drivers. Despite being so inexpensive, the Bigfoot does not skimp. The monster truck is waterproof, heavy-duty, and durable.
Features of the Traxxas Bigfoot:
- 1/10 scale
- Level one
- Speed of 30+ mph
- Electric
- Costs $245.99
- Waterproof electronics all-weather, all-season RC excitement
- Powerful XL-5 waterproof electronic speed control
- Watertight receiver box and 3 channel TQ receiver
2. Traxxas 4-Tec 2.0
Second on the list of the best inexpensive models is the Traxxas 4-Tec 2.0. This model is perfect for on-road driving. Although it does not handle off-road driving very well, it does a fantastic job of driving on pavement. The chassis on the vehicle is more responsive and it is easier to disassemble. If you are looking for an inexpensive Traxxas, then you will want to seriously consider the 4-Tec 2.0.
Features of the Traxxas 4-Tec 2.0:
- Powerful XL-5 waterproof electronic speed control
- Adjustable chassis accepts standard 200 mm bodies
- Race-proven sealed differentials
- 1/10 scale
- Level one
- Speed of 30+ mph
- Electric
- Costs $239.99
3. Traxxas 1/16 Slash 4X4
Third on the list for the best inexpensive models is the Traxxas 1/16 Slash 4X4. This is one of the least expensive options available, so if you are going for cheap, then this is for you.
The Slash is an all-around dependable vehicle that you are sure to enjoy. It has features of the more expensive models, while still maintaining its inexpensive price.
Features of the Traxxas 1/16 Slash 4X4:
- Level one
- 1/16 scale
- Electric
- Costs $179.99
- Waterproof electronics
- Full-time 4WD for superior handling and control
- XL-2.5 electronic speed control
Best Overall Models
If money is not an issue, then you will want to consider the following models. Traxxas has a number of amazing RC’s, and it can be difficult to decipher which ones are the best.
It is also important to remember that just because a vehicle is expensive, it does not necessarily mean it is what you want. Below is a list of the top five best Traxxas models that can help you decide which is the best for you.
1. Traxxas X-Maxx
The best overall Traxxas is the X-Maxx. This truck is well renowned and has optimal features. Anything you can think of, the X-Maxx probably has it.
“Unrelenting 4X4 power, mammoth size, and award-winning innovation make X-Maxx the ultimate monster truck. With 30+ volts of extreme 8S power, X-Maxx defies physics, unleashing jaw-dropping acceleration and 50+mph speeds. Engineered to conquer the most extreme terrain and take brutal real-world punishment in stride, X-Maxx is the definition of Traxxas Tough.”
Traxxas
Features of the Traxxas X-Maxx:
- Maxx scale
- Speed of 50+ mph
- Level six
- Electric
- Costs $929.99
2. Hoss 4X4 VXL
Second on the list for the best Traxxas is the Hoss 4X4 VXL. This monster truck is a combination of speed and power. Engineers designed the Hoss to allow it to drive on any type of terrain.
It is strong and durable, being able to drive on both dirt and snow. There is nothing that can stop the Traxxas Hoss 4X4 VXL, not even the roughest of drivers.
Features of the Traxxas Hoss 4X4 VXL:
- 1/10 scale
- Speed of 60+ mph
- Level four
- Electric
- Costs $479.99
- Improves straight-line acceleration and braking on low-traction surfaces
- 540 XL torque
- Oil-filled steel gear front and rear differentials
- Maintains steering composure to allow throttle-on powerslides
3. Unlimited Desert Racer
Third on the list for the best Traxxas is the Unlimited Desert Racer. This truck allows drivers to take charge of the desert. The Desert Racer has waterproof LED lights that will never dim or flicker.
Rather, they will light up the desert with their high voltage amplifier. Drivers can unleash all of their rugged energy when using the Desert Racer as it is engineered to be just like an actual desert truck.
Features of the Traxxas Unlimited Desert Racer:
- Pro scale
- Level five
- Speed of 50+ mph
- Electric
- Costs $759.99
- Independent double-wishbone front suspension with captured rod ends
- Provides scale looks and authentic off-road driving dynamics
- Improves straight-line acceleration and braking on low-traction surfaces
4. Bandit VXL
Fourth on the list for the best Traxxas is the Bandit VXL. This car is an excellent choice if you are looking for a lightweight, speedy machine. The Bandit can go an impressive seventy mph on either pavement or while off-roading.
The stability of the car has been improved as to where it is possible to drive on loose sand or snow. The Bandit will not allow you to lose control of the vehicle, even while driving on these surfaces.
Features of the Traxxas Bandit VXL:
- 1/10 Scale
- Level two
- Speed of 70+ mph
- Electric
- Costs $299.99
- Has waterproof electronics
- Precision steel turnbuckles with heavy-duty rod ends
- Digital high-torque waterproof steering servo
5. Revo 3.3
Fifth on the list for the best Traxxas is the Revo 3.3. The Revo 3.3 is the best nitro monster truck, and it is the most awarded. The engineering on this truck is impressive, and everything was created with precision.
Everything about the truck is state of the art, and there is nothing the Revo does not have. If something does happen to go wrong, which is unlikely, it is backed up by the Lifetime Engine Replacement Plan.
Thankfully, something going wrong with Revo monster trucks is uncommon.
Features of the Revo 3.3:
- 1/10 scale
- Level four
- Speed of 45+ mph
- Nitro
- Costs $529.99
- Dual digital waterproof ball-bearing servos with 250 oz.-in. combined torque
- Factory-installed Telemetry sensors – RPM, speed, temperature, and battery voltage
