Introduction
So, you’re in the market for a budget-friendly RC truck that looks like the popular armor Outcast? Well, your search might just be over. I have two brand new TPRC cars in front of me, both of which are inspired by the Outcast. But here’s the catch – only one of them is truly worth buying. Let’s dive into the details and find out which one it is.
When it comes to remote-controlled (RC) cars, the ARRMA Outcast is a popular choice among hobbyists. It offers an exhilarating experience with its speed and performance. However, not everyone may be able to afford the original Outcast, which can be quite expensive. Fortunately, there are two cheaper options available that resemble the Outcast. In this article, we will compare these rip-offs and determine which one is worth buying.
The SMRC S910
The first contender is the SMRC S910, a 1/16 scale truck available in both brushed and brushless versions. The brushed version comes in a sleek black and pink color scheme, costing around 60 pounds or 75 dollars. However, the brushless White Version, priced at 87 pounds or 110 dollars, is the one I have here.
The JJRC Q 2146
Moving on to the next option, we have the JJRC Q 2146, which is slightly larger at 1/14 scale. As far as I know, this truck is only available in a brushed version, although there might be plans for a brushless one in the future. The price for the brushed version is 73 pounds or 91 dollars, an attractive deal if it performs well.
What’s in the Box?
Now that we have a brief overview of both trucks, let’s take a closer look at what each one offers. Starting with the SMRC S910, let’s explore the contents of its packaging.
The SMRC S910 Unboxed
When you open the box of the SMRC S910, you’ll find the truck itself, ready to take on any terrain. It is equipped with a durable chassis and eye-catching design that closely resembles the popular Outcast. Along with the vehicle, you’ll also receive a remote control, battery pack, and a charger to keep the fun going.
The JJRC Q 2146 Unboxed
Moving on to the JJRC Q 2146, let’s see what awaits you inside its box. Just like the SMRC S910, this truck comes fully assembled and ready to hit the road. The packaging includes the truck, a remote control, battery pack, and a charger. However, since this model is available only in brushed version, it may lack the performance of its brushless counterpart.
Performance Matters
Now that we know what we get with each truck, it’s time to focus on their performance. After all, that’s what truly matters when choosing an RC truck.
SMRC S910: The Brushless Beast
The SMRC S910, especially in its brushless version, packs quite a punch. With its powerful motor and sturdy build, this truck offers impressive speed and handling. Its larger scale also contributes to a more stable and smoother ride. Whether you’re tackling jumps, rough terrains, or just cruising around, the SMRC S910 has got you covered.
JJRC Q 2146: A Solid Performer
While the JJRC Q 2146 might not have the brushless advantage, it still manages to deliver a solid performance. Ideal for beginners or those looking for a more budget-friendly option, this truck handles well on various surfaces and offers decent speed
The Transmitter
The first thing we’ll discuss is the transmitter. To be frank, it feels rather plasticky. It bears a striking resemblance to the pine cone models, but there’s something about it that just seems a bit cheap. Of course, it does come with your standard adjustments – steering trim, steering jewelry, and throttle jewelry. The wheel features a nice foam grip, but even the trigger lacks the smoothness one would expect. To get the transmitter up and running, you’ll need three double A batteries.
The Included Accessories
In the package, you’ll find a variety of accessories. There is a 2s 1500 milliamp hour lithium-ion battery, decal sheets, and an instruction manual that guides you on where to place everything. I personally found the pink decals to be quite cool-looking, so I chose those. The package also includes a screwdriver and a spare parts bag, which even has a cross wrench. Furthermore, there is a typical, budget-friendly USB charger, and finally, a black and white instruction manual. Unfortunately, the manual lacks exploded diagrams, but it does list all the parts at the back.
The Second Transmitter
Now, if you thought the first transmitter was a bit cheap-looking, well, this second one is even worse. Personally, I find the design to be rather toy-like, and it doesn’t sit well with me. It features the same steering trim adjustment, as you can see, and on the other side, it says “dual rate,” although it’s unclear whether that refers to the steering or the throttle. The wheel, again, has a foam grip, but this one requires four double A batteries to operate. I must admit, I’m not a fan of this transmitter at all. It simply feels incredibly cheap.
Remember, when choosing between these two ARRMA Outcast rip-offs, consider the quality and feel of the transmitters. While both have their drawbacks, one definitely stands out as the superior option.
The Package Contents
Let’s start by examining the package contents of these two cheap ARRMA Outcast rip-offs. The first thing we notice is the typical, cheap, RC car USB charger. It’s nothing special, but it gets the job done. Along with the charger, we also have a screwdriver that comes with two different bits. It’s a handy tool to have for any RC car enthusiast. Additionally, the battery included in the package is a 2s 1500 milliamp hour lithium ion battery, which is the same as the previous model.
Now, let’s take a look at the manual included with the rip-offs. Compared to the previous one, this Black and White Manual is more comprehensive. It provides exploded diagrams and overall seems to be of higher quality. It’s a nice addition to have when setting up your RC car.
Exterior Features
Moving on to the exterior features, the color scheme of the first rip-off catches the eye. The pink decals give it a unique and cool look. The front bumper is made of firm plastic and includes an LED light bar. There is also a wheelie bar at the back and a flexible rear wing. Overall, the design is visually appealing and adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the RC car.
Under the Body
Let’s now take a closer look under the body of the first rip-off. Unlike traditional body clips, this one is held on with velcro, which makes it easier to access the internals. However, there is one major disappointment with this RC car. The friction shocks are of poor quality. As you can see, the truck bounces excessively and it’s frustrating to deal with. It’s perplexing why these manufacturers continue to include such subpar shocks with ready-to-run cheap RC cars. On the positive side, the front of the truck features sturdy metal CBDs, which is a redeeming quality.
The Second Rip-Off
Now it’s time to shift our focus to the second rip-off. Upon first glance, the color scheme and decals are less appealing compared to the first one. However, looks can be deceiving, so let’s dive deeper. Under the body, we find the same velcro attachment method and unfortunately, the same disappointing friction shocks. It’s disheartening to see that the manufacturers have not improved this crucial component. On the positive side, like the first rip-off, this one also includes metal CBDs at the front.
The Decision: Which One is Worth Buying?
After closely examining both rip-offs, it’s clear that only one of them is worth buying. Despite its visual appeal and unique color scheme, the first rip-off falls short due to the inadequate friction shocks. On the other hand, the second rip-off may have a less attractive appearance, but it suffers from the same issue with the shocks. Ultimately, neither rip-off is a worthy investment if you value a smooth and enjoyable RC car experience. It’s important to consider all aspects, including the quality of components, when making a purchase decision.
Introducing the ARRMA Outcast Rip-Offs
Today, we are going to talk about two cheap ARRMA Outcast rip-offs. Both of these RC cars claim to offer the same features and performance as the original Outcast, but are they really worth buying? Let’s dive in and find out!
The First Rip-Off: A Plastic Chassis and Firm Tires
Our first contender boasts metal dog bones on the rear and a metal Center Drive Shaft. It also features metal gears, diffs, and ball bearings throughout. However, disappointingly, it has a plastic chassis and tires that feel more like hard plastic than proper grip-friendly material. In comparison to high-end models like the Outcast, the plastic used here feels brittle and not likely to last long.
Examining the Electronics
Now, let’s talk about the electronics. This rip-off comes equipped with a 45 amp brushless ESC, which supposedly can handle 3s power. It also features a 28 47 4200 KV brushless motor and a free wire servo. While it may look cool, these electronics are not exactly top-of-the-line, and it’s questionable whether they will perform well in the long run.
The Second Rip-Off: A Closer Look
Moving on to our second contender, it also comes with a firm and rigid rear wing, similar to the original Outcast. However, the front bumper is somewhat disappointing, and there is no rear bumper at all. This leaves a noticeable gap at the rear that doesn’t quite meet the mark.
One feature worth mentioning though is the body clips with retainers. It’s a rarity to see this level of detail in cheap RC cars, so it’s a small positive aspect.
Under The Hood
With the body off, we can take a closer look at what’s underneath. Unfortunately, this rip-off doesn’t offer any standout features in terms of its mechanics or components. It lacks the durability and robustness of the original Outcast, which raises doubts about its overall performance and longevity.
The Verdict: Only One is Worth Buying
After examining both rip-offs closely, it’s evident that only one is worth buying – and that is the first contender. Despite its shortcomings, it still offers some decent features and durability compared to the second rip-off. While it may not match the performance of the original Outcast, it at least comes close in terms of value for money.
So, if you are in the market for a cheap alternative to the ARRMA Outcast, be sure to choose wisely and go for the contender that offers a better balance between performance and build quality.
Quality Build and Suspension
Taking a look underneath these two ARRMA Outcast rip-offs, one can immediately notice the striking resemblance to WL toys. The familiarity is reminiscent of an old best friend, the 144001. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing, as the rip-offs feature proper metal oil field adjustable shocks. In comparison to the bouncy nature of the other model, these shocks are a breath of fresh air. This is how it should be done – providing stability and a smoother ride.
Durable Construction and Drivetrain
The front of these rip-offs boasts metal cvds and dog bones, while the rear sports thin-looking counterparts. It is worth mentioning that these thinner parts tend to bend easily in my past experiences. On the positive side, both models come equipped with metal gears and differentials, although there seems to be a lack of sufficient grease in these components. This is definitely something to inspect if you decide to invest in one of these vehicles. Moreover, one of the rip-offs features a sturdy metal chassis, but disappointingly lacks hex hardware. Nevertheless, adjustable turnbuckles, shock towers, and front and rear metal center drive shafts contribute to a reliable and robust build. The presence of tall bearings throughout the rip-offs is also worth noting. Additionally, the battery tray in one of the models is impressive, offering the flexibility to accommodate longer packs.
Improved Wheels and Tires
Moving on to the wheels and tires, there is a noticeable improvement in the second rip-off. These upgraded components are noticeably softer and offer improved grip. This is a significant upgrade from the previous model, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience.
Mediocre Electronics
In terms of electronics, one of the rip-offs features a 390 size brushed motor, a two-in-one 35 amp brush DSC and Receiver, and a five-wire servo. While the motor and DSC are decent, the five-wire servo can be a hindrance when it comes to upgrading.
In conclusion, while both of these ARRMA Outcast rip-offs have their pros and cons, it is clear that one stands out as the superior option. With better suspension, a durable construction, and improved wheels and tires, this particular model outperforms its counterpart. Despite the mediocre electronics, it is without a doubt the one worth investing in for a more thrilling and enduring RC driving experience.
The SMRC Version
First up, let’s take a look at the SMRC version of the ARRMA Outcast rip-off. We decided to do a quick 2s speed test using the included batteries. Heading over to my little car park, I prepared myself for the speed test.
As I hit full throttle, I immediately noticed that the truck felt quite bouncy. It was a bit unexpected, but it didn’t deter me from wanting to see how fast it could go. After a few moments, I couldn’t help but wonder what the final speed would be. This particular version is the brushless one, but there’s also a brushed option available.
As I brought the truck back, it was time to check the speed. To my disappointment, it only reached 24 miles per hour. Comparing this to other cars in the same price range, it seemed quite slow. Was this an indication of its overall performance? I had my doubts.
The JJRC Version
Now, let’s move on to the JJRC version of the ARRMA Outcast rip-off. I had a feeling that this one might give us a slightly better speed. As I put the truck to the test, it did feel fairly quick. However, I couldn’t help but notice that the transmitter didn’t feel very responsive. There seemed to be a delay with the steering, which was quite off-putting.
Unlike the previous version, this one didn’t have the same bouncy feel. Thanks to the proper oil-filled shocks, the ride was smoother. But what would the final speed be? As I brought the truck back to check, I hoped it would be more impressive.
After a quick glance, it was clear that this version was slightly faster. It reached speeds in the mid 20s, which was an improvement from the SMRC version. However, it still left something to be desired.
Conclusion: Which One is Worth Buying?
After comparing the two ARRMA Outcast rip-offs, it’s clear that the JJRC version has a slight edge in terms of speed. However, both trucks fell short when compared to other cars in the same price range.
While the SMRC version provided a bouncy ride and the JJRC version offered better responsiveness, neither of them truly stood out. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, these rip-offs might be worth considering. However, if speed and overall performance are your priorities, it might be best to invest in the genuine ARRMA Outcast.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. But remember, sometimes it’s worth paying a little more for quality and satisfaction.
The Performance of the 22 Rip-Off
Upon testing the 22 rip-off version of the ARRMA Outcast, it became apparent that although it may be a little slower, it handles better than its counterpart. This is a significant advantage, as a smoother handling can greatly improve the overall driving experience. However, this alone does not make it a worthy purchase.
The Disappointing Off-Road Performance of the SMRC 910
Moving on to the SMRC 910 rip-off, it was expected that its off-road performance would not be satisfactory, considering its excessive bounce. The lack of proper oil-filled shocks is the cause of this issue. It is puzzling why manufacturers choose to compromise on essential components when upgrading them would greatly enhance the product. Moreover, the difference in price for oil-filled shocks is not significant, and consumers would gladly pay extra for a better performing vehicle.
Power and Off-Roading Capability
Despite its shortcomings on the road, the power delivered by the SMRC 910 rip-off is surprisingly satisfactory. Off-road, it provides an adequate amount of power. However, the vehicle lacks stability and tends to bounce and wander around, making it a rather challenging and frustrating vehicle to drive. In comparison to the MJX Hyper, the SMRC 910 rip-off stands no chance.
The Flipping and Body Detachment Issue
One of the major setbacks of the SMRC 910 rip-off is the frequent detachment of its body whenever it flips over. The velcro system used to secure the body is not reliable, and it becomes a hassle for the driver each time the body comes off. It would have been wiser to stick with the more conventional and secure body clips. This design flaw further adds to the disappointment of the SMRC 910 rip-off.
Anticipation for the JJRC Performance
After the underwhelming performance of the previous rip-off version, the anticipation for the JJRC rip-off increases. Will it redeem the shortcomings of its predecessor? Stay tuned to find out.
Arrma Outcast Rip-Offs: A Comparison
When it comes to off-road RC cars, there’s no denying that the Arrma Outcast is a popular choice among enthusiasts. However, not everyone can afford the hefty price tag that comes with it. That’s where the knockoffs come in. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at two cheap Arrma Outcast rip-offs and determine which one is actually worth buying.
The First Rip-Off: Looks Can Be Deceiving
Let’s start with the first rip-off, the SMRC. When it comes to appearances, this RC car certainly nails it. It looks sleek and stylish, just like the real deal. However, looks can be deceiving. Despite its cool exterior, the performance of the SMRC leaves much to be desired. The handling is subpar, and it feels like it lacks the power it needs. It’s a disappointment, to say the least.
The Second Rip-Off: Performance Over Appearance
Next up is the JJRC. While it may not have the same aesthetic appeal as the SMRC, the performance of this rip-off is surprisingly better. The oil-filled shocks make a noticeable difference in absorbing impacts, providing a smoother ride. The handling is decent, even if the power is not quite up to par. Overall, the JJRC outperforms the SMRC in terms of performance.
A Tough Decision
Now, you might be wondering, would I actually buy either of these trucks? Well, with the likes of the MJX Hyper Go and the High Boxing cars in the market, the competition is tough. Both of these brands have proven to be solid contenders when it comes to performance and value for money.
While the SMRC may look great, its lackluster performance puts it at a disadvantage. On the other hand, while the JJRC may not win any beauty contests, its better performance makes it a more viable option.
Ultimately, the decision of which RC car to buy comes down to personal preference. Some may prioritize looks over performance, while others may prefer a more reliable and capable vehicle. Whichever you choose, just remember to do your research and consider all aspects before making a purchase.
The JJRC Rip-Off
One of the rip-offs of the ARRMA Outcast is the JJRC model. Although it may not have the same brand reputation as ARRMA, the JJRC still offers some impressive features. If you are attracted to the appearance of both cars, the JJRC may be the better choice. Its design closely resembles the Outcast, giving you that desired look without breaking the bank.
Considerations other than Speed
While the speed of an RC car is undoubtedly important, there are other factors to consider as well. Handling plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance of the vehicle. In this aspect, the JJRC surpasses its rival. Although it may not be as fast as the other rip-off, its superior handling capabilities make it a more enjoyable option for both beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.
Affordability and Longevity
For those new to the hobby, the cheaper rip-offs can serve as a good starting point. The JJRC is the recommended choice due to its affordability. By purchasing this model, beginners can dip their toes into the RC car world without emptying their wallets. Additionally, the JJRC also provides the option for a brushless upgrade in the future, ensuring its longevity as you gain more experience and desire more power.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the ARRMA Outcast is undeniably a top-notch RC car, not everyone can afford it. This is where the cheaper rip-offs come into play. Between the two options, the JJRC stands out as the superior choice. Its similar appearance to the Outcast, coupled with its impressive handling and affordability, make it the go-to option for beginners and budget-conscious hobbyists. So, if you are looking for a cost-effective way to satisfy your RC car cravings, the JJRC is the one worth buying. Thank you for watching and I hope you enjoyed seeing both of these trucks in action.