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RC car scales explained
By Paul Walsh Last reviewed
The scale tells you roughly how big a car is compared with the real thing. In practice, it decides where you can drive it, how much it costs, and what batteries it needs.
The common scales
| Scale | Rough length | Typical battery | Where to drive | Running cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/28 to 1/24 | 15 to 20cm | Small 1S to 2S | Indoors, desks, mini courses | Very low |
| 1/18 to 1/16 | 25 to 35cm | 2S | Gardens, driveways, indoors | Low |
| 1/12 to 1/14 | 30 to 40cm | 2S | Gardens, parks | Low to moderate |
| 1/10 | About 40 to 55cm | 2S to 3S (some 4S) | Parks, tracks, anywhere | Moderate |
| 1/8 | About 50 to 60cm+ | 4S to 6S, or nitro | Big open spaces, tracks | Higher |
| 1/5 | Around 1m | Petrol or 8S+ | Large private land | High |
These sizes are rough: a 1/10 Arrma Granite monster truck, for example, is about 45cm long, while 1/10 touring cars are shorter and lower. Always check the actual dimensions.
How scale changes things
Terrain. Bigger wheels roll over grass, bumps and gravel that would stop a small car.
Speed. Larger cars on higher voltages go faster, and hit harder.
Cost. Batteries, tyres and parts all cost more as the car gets bigger.
Space. A 1/8 truck needs a big field; a 1/24 crawler can run round the living room.
Transport. 1/10 fits in any boot; 1/5 needs a lot of space.
Which scale for you?
- First hobby-grade car for an adult: 1/10. The best range of cars and parts. See best RC cars for beginners.
- Children or small gardens: 1/16 to 1/18. See best RC cars for kids.
- Indoors: 1/24 crawlers.
- Big bashing: 1/8 or larger, as a second car.
Batteries by scale
Small scales use small 1S to 2S packs; 1/10 cars use 2S hard-case packs (some trucks take 3S or 4S); 1/8 cars use 4S to 6S. Never use more cells than the electronics are rated for. See LiPo batteries explained.
The type of car matters too: see types of RC car and the RC car buyer's guide. Back to the RC cars hub.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular RC car scale?
1/10. It has the widest choice of models, parts and upgrades, and is the main racing scale.
Is a bigger RC car better?
Bigger cars handle rough ground better and look impressive, but they cost much more to run, repair and transport.
Are scales the same between brands?
Not exactly. Scale is a rough guide; two 1/10 cars can differ noticeably in size, especially monster trucks.
Related guides
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Types of RC car
Buggies, truggies, monster trucks, short course, crawlers, touring and drift cars: what each is built for and which suits the way you want to drive.
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RC car buyer's guide
On-road or off-road, scale, motor, RTR or kit, spares and running costs: everything to weigh before buying an RC car in the UK.
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Best RC cars for kids
RC cars that survive children, by age group: sensible speeds, waterproofing, battery safety and when to step up to a hobby-grade car.