A Guide to RC Car Scales and Sizes

Navigating the world of RC car scales is a fascinating journey that goes beyond mere size, encompassing an intricate relationship with its real-life counterparts. In this guide, we explore the intricacies of scales like 1:5, 1:8, 1:10, and more, shedding light on their pros, cons, and practical considerations. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to RC car racing, this article should help you make informed decisions about the size and scale that aligns with your preferences and racing aspirations. So let’s get to it.

How RC Car Scales Work

In the realm of radio-controlled cars, scale plays a crucial role. As we mentioned, the sizing of an RC car is intricately tied to its real-life counterpart, with a notation system denoting this relationship. The scale refers to how large an RC car is compared to the model it is based on. For example, a 1:10 (or 1/10) RC car signifies that it is ten times smaller than the full-sized vehicle it mimics, while a 1:1 RC car would, theoretically, precisely mirror the size of its real-world inspiration. So, the larger the second number, the more diminutive the RC car becomes. 

But that doesn’t mean that, let’s say, a 1:14 RC is necessarily smaller than a 1:10 one if they are not based on the same model - the real-life vehicle that the 1:14 is modelled on could be large enough that, even when shrunk to a sixteenth of its size, it’s still larger than the 1:10. Think of a 1/14 RC firetruck compared to a 1/10 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia - the firetruck is still going to be larger even though it’s of a smaller scale. It's also important to note that this scale exclusively addresses the physical size of the RC car and doesn't delve into considerations like weight or the intricacies of internal components.

What Are the Limitations of RC Scales?

Theoretically, there are no limitations to RC car scales. However, the community has established some practical benchmarks. Anything larger than 1:8 is commonly deemed as large, catering to enthusiasts who relish commanding big, more imposing models. On the flip side, scales of 1:24 and smaller earn the title of micro models, tailored for those with a penchant for compact, precision-oriented setups. With one caveat - most large real-life vehicles, like trucks, haulers, combines, etc., are made in micro RC car scales due to their imposing size.

It's worth emphasizing that these extreme scales, whether in the macro or micro spectrum, typically cater to niche enthusiasts with specific preferences and purposes in mind.  That being said, the most common types of RC cars are 1:8, 1:10, and 1:12, with 1:10 making up the majority. 

The Pros and Cons of Different RC Sizes

When it comes to the pros and cons of different RC sizes, there’s no best RC car. We must mostly talk in general terms because, as we said, it’s not just about the scale but about the size of the real-life model that the RC car was scaled down from. In any case, let’s start on the large end:

• 1:5 scale - 1:5s are some of the biggest models you’ll find on the market. They can reach high speeds, have very good performance, and are typically very durable. If you wished to go bigger than 1:5, you would likely have to build your own RC car. On the negative side, they tend to be rather expensive, the choice of models is limited, and they are simply too big for indoor driving. All in all, these models are not considered beginner-friendly.
• 1:8 scale - 1:8s are also considered bigger models and that also means they have fine details and good performance. They are primarily meant for off-road driving and are usually somewhere between 45cm and 60cm long and 25cm to 40cm wide. Unlike 1:5s, there is a wider range of models to pick from.
• 1:10 scale - one of the main benefits of 1:10 RC cars is that you can find almost any model, from buggies to drift cars, in this scale due to its popularity. On the other hand, 1:10s are not the fastest models and are often unsuitable for indoor spaces due to their size, but they offer a good balance of overall performance, speed, and cost.
• 1:12 scale - RC cars in this scale are also rather popular. They perform similarly to 1:10s and provide a good balance of speed and handling, while still retaining most of the details of real-life models.
• 1:18 scale - 1:18s slowly startstary leaning towards miniature models. They may have fewer details than larger models and are relatively lightweight, making them more difficult to handle. On the other hand, RC cars of this scale are suitable for indoor driving, so they could be your choice if that is what you are looking for.
• 1:24 scale - 1:24 RC cars are considered miniature models by most enthusiasts and are more of a niche hobby. These models are lightweight, which allows them to reach high speeds, but that also makes them difficult to handle. On the other hand, if you are looking for RC trucks or similar larger vehicles, most will come in the 1:24 scale due to the sheer size of the real-life models. 1:24 cars are typically suitable for indoor use, while 1:24 trucks are intended for off-road driving.

Which Size of RC Car Should You Buy?

If you are just getting into RC car racing, we would suggest getting a 1:10 model or possibly a 1:8 or 1:12 if you have your heart set on it. You will have the widest selection to choose from if you go for a 1:10 and they tend to be budget-friendly. They provide a good balance of speed and performance, while also allowing you to make modifications.

However, at the end of the day, it’s your choice which RC car scale is your favourite. And when you do make your choice, we can help you get the model you want. RCMA is a model and hobby shop that sells radio-controlled cars in all scales and sizes. You can order on-road, off-road, and drift RC cars or even RC motorcycles and trucks. We even offer RC car parts and accessories if you are into modifications.

You can order online or come to our store to get your RC car in person (and meet some people in the RC car racing community). Choose from multiple payment options, including buy-now-pay-later, and get the model you want to start out with! And if you have any questions, feel free to contact us - we’ll gladly explain all you wish to know.