Unboxing and Contents
Upon opening the box, let’s take a brief look at what comes inside. We are provided with a small, single-sided instruction sheet outlining how to install the battery, charge it, remove battery covers, and operate the car. Accompanying this guide is a tiny Phillips head screwdriver, which proves handy for removing the aforementioned battery covers. A USB type charger is also included, along with two 600 milliamp power, 3.7 Volt lithium-ion cells. One of these batteries is already pre-installed within the car. Additionally, there is a transmitter included, which is compact and simplistic in design, but one cannot expect much more at this price range. Surprisingly, the transmitter also comes with two already installed AA batteries, which is a convenience rarely seen in RC vehicles.
Design and Features
This RC car, labeled as a two-wheel drive truck, boasts friction dampers and offers some degree of suspension travel in the rear, albeit limited. The front suspension seems to provide more travel compared to the back. The wheels are secured with screws instead of nuts, and the tires themselves are quite rigid, as one might anticipate. It is worth noting that this particular model does not come with steering rates pre-set. Instead, users are required to adjust the rates manually using a small knob provided on the car.
Battery Compartment
Moving on to the battery compartment, it is located conveniently within the car. There is ample room inside to accommodate the battery, allowing for easy installation and removal. This is a practical feature that ensures hassle-free operation and maintenance.
Performance and Durability
When it comes to performance, this $30 RC car holds up surprisingly well. The two-wheel drive system provides decent power and control on various surfaces. The suspension, although limited, manages to absorb minor bumps and uneven terrain adequately. However, it is important to bear in mind that this RC car is not designed for extreme off-road experiences.
In terms of durability, the car appears to be fairly robust. It can withstand occasional crashes and minor impacts, but it is always advisable to avoid excessive abuse to ensure its longevity. The sturdy construction and well-secured components make it suitable for beginners and those seeking a budget-friendly option.
Design and Build Quality
The $30 RC car from Amazon offers a decent design for its price range. The body shell looks pretty nice and even includes a plastic spoiler on top. The four body clips, which are made of plastic, are a unique feature that I haven’t seen before. Despite its low price, the overall build quality of the car is surprisingly good. The battery can be heard moving around inside the car, but it does not seem to affect the performance or durability.
Affordable Fun for All Ages
With the holiday season approaching, this RC car can be a great gift option for young kids or beginners in the hobby. If you have a child in the family or even a neighbor kid you want to introduce to RC cars, this affordable option might be worth considering. The compact size of the radio controller makes it perfect for small hands, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for young users.
Enclosed Components and LED Features
One notable feature of this RC car is that all its components, including the motor, are enclosed. This adds an extra layer of protection, preventing any damage from external factors. The car also comes equipped with metal steering links, similar to what you would find in higher-end models like Tama cars. Additionally, the car has LEDs on the top, which give it a cool glowing effect when turned on.
Steering Performance
It’s important to note that the steering of this RC car is not proportional, meaning that it does not provide precise control over the turning radius. Instead, it offers slam-bang steering, which might be more suitable for quick and dynamic movements rather than precise maneuvering. While this may not be ideal for experienced RC car enthusiasts, it could still be exciting for beginners or those looking for a fun and speedy driving experience.
Overall, the $30 RC car from Amazon provides an affordable option for those looking to try out the hobby or introduce it to young kids. Despite its limitations in terms of proportional steering, the car offers a decent design, sturdy build quality, and additional features such as the enclosed components and LED lights. For its price, this RC car can certainly provide hours of entertainment and fun for the whole family.
The nonproportional steering and throttle
When it comes to the $30 RC car from Amazon, one notable feature is its nonproportional steering. While some may consider this a drawback, it has its own charm. With all left or all right steering, it offers a simple and straightforward driving experience. Additionally, the throttle is not proportional either, allowing for a different kind of control.
The functionality of the wheels and throttle inputs
Despite its nonproportional steering, the wheels of this RC car turn smoothly, even when placed on a tabletop. This speaks to the car’s agility and maneuverability. Furthermore, the throttle inputs are responsive and reliable. Unlike many modern RC cars, which require double-tapping the reverse function, this car allows for quick and seamless transitions between forward and reverse.
The absence of braking and lighting effects
One downside of the $30 RC car is the lack of a braking function. Typically, RC cars with electronic speed controllers (ESCs) offer a braking feature when transitioning from forward to reverse. However, this car does not possess that capability. On the bright side, the car comes with flashy LED lights in the front, delivering a visual spectacle, especially in the dark. Kids, in particular, might find these lights amusing and exciting.
The power and terrain capabilities
Though not heavily powered, this RC car is not to be underestimated. While it may not tear up rough terrains, it holds its own when driven around the backyard or on the driveway. Its performance outdoors is yet to be tested fully, but it seems promising enough for some enjoyable playtime.
In conclusion, the $30 RC car from Amazon offers a unique driving experience with its nonproportional steering and throttle. While it lacks certain functionalities like braking, it compensates with flashy LED lights that add a touch of excitement. Its performance on various terrains remains to be fully explored, but it has the potential to provide hours of fun for both kids and RC enthusiasts.
Performance on Grass and Dirt
When I first got my hands on the $30 RC car from Amazon, I wasn’t expecting much in terms of performance. And rightly so, because when I took it outside to test it on grass and dirt, it struggled. The small motor and the included 3.7 cell batteries just couldn’t provide enough power for the car to navigate through the grass. Even on a slight uphill grade, it really had a tough time moving forward.
Best on Concrete
I found that this RC car performs best on a flat slab of concrete. Whether it’s on the driveway or in the garage, the car glides smoothly and effortlessly. The wide turning radius is not a major issue on concrete surfaces, and it allows for a more controlled and stable driving experience. However, be prepared for the car to jostle a bit when going over rough terrain. The friction dampers combined with the hard tires make it a bit challenging to navigate through anything other than a smooth surface.
Underpowered and Not Suited for Outdoors
In my experience, this $30 RC car is not well-suited for outdoor use. The underpowered motor and the limitations of the included batteries make it difficult for the car to overcome obstacles and rough terrain. As I attempted to conquer a small burm on my track, it took multiple tries before the car finally made it over. The wide turning radius, lack of power, and struggles with rough terrain make it clear that this RC car is more suited for indoor use in a large enough space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the $30 RC car from Amazon offers a decent package for its price range. The inclusion of extra batteries, along with a user-friendly instruction sheet, is a commendable touch. While it may lack some advanced features, it compensates with reliability, performance, and durability. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, this RC car presents an affordable and enjoyable option.
Overall, the $30 RC car from Amazon is a decent option for indoor use on smooth surfaces. It offers a wide turning radius and a stable driving experience on concrete. However, its limitations become evident outdoors, where it struggles to provide the necessary power and maneuverability. If you’re looking for an affordable RC car for some indoor driving fun, this could be a good option. But if you’re planning to take it outside and conquer various terrains, you might want to consider investing in a more powerful and versatile model.
