The Scale of RC car refers to the proportion of the size of the model contrasted with the size of
the genuine vehicle it is designed according to. It is expressed as a ratio of 1/10, 1/16, and so on.
Scale Selection
The selection of the scale depends upon the following factors:
- Intended Use: Indoor/outdoor, casual/competitive racing.
- Space: Smaller/Larger scales
- Budget: Consider the budget before selecting the scale
- Performance need: Speed and Power, Control and Precision and Durability
RC car are available in different scales, each has its own benefits and uses. Choose the scale that best matches with your performance needs, space, budget, and intended use.
Now we will discuss the commonly used 1/10, 1/16, 1/20, and 1/24.
1/10 RC scale Car:
1/10 scale RC car is one of the most popular size for hobbyists, offering a good balance between size, detail, and performance. Suitable for both on-road and off-road applications. It is usually made of Lexan or polycarbonate for durability.
Larger Scale: 1/10 RC car scale comes in larger scales which offer better performance but at the same time require more space and investment.
Here’s a general size guide for a 1/10 RC car:
Dimensions:
- Length: Approximately 17 to 22 inches
- Width: Approximately 7 to 10 inches
- Height: Approximately 4 to 6 inches
- Wheelbase: Approximately 10 to 14 inches
Weight
- On-road: 1.4 to 2.3 kg
- Off-road: 1.8 to 3.2 kg
Tire Diameter
- On-road: Approximately 2 to 3 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 3 to 4 inches
Tire Width
- On-road: Approximately 1 to 2 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 1.5 to 3 inches
Features
- Suitable for both on and off-road
- High performance
- Powerful motors
- Advanced suspension systems
- Often 4WD
- More detail in bodies and accessories
Limitations
- Requires more space
- Heavier so difficult to transport
- Expensive
1/16 scale RC car:
1/16 scale RC car is smaller than 1/10 scale. It is best for Intermediate hobbyists. It works in both indoor and outdoor environment and is easier to transport and store.
Medium Scale: 1/16 scale car comes in medium scales which provide a balance between size, performance, and storage.
Here’s a general size guide for a 1/16 RC car:
Dimensions
- Length: Approximately 10 to 14 inches
- Width: Approximately 5 to 7 inches
- Height: Approximately 3 to 5 inches
- Wheelbase: Approximately 6 to 9 inches
Weight
- On-road:0.7 to 1.4 kg
- Off-road:0.9 to 1.8 kg
Tire Diameter
- On-road: Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 2 to 3 inches
Tire Width
- On-road: Approximately 0.75 to 1.5 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 1 to 2 inches
Features:
- Medium-sized bodies
- Moderate motor power
- Good suspension systems
- Often 4WD or 2WD
- Use indoor and outdoor both
Limitations
- Less detailed as 1/10
- Limited high-performance options
- large for small spaces
1/20 scale RC car
1/20 scale RC car is smaller, compact and more affordable for entry-level hobbyists, this scale is good for indoor use or small spaces making it easy to transport. It offers less performance and detail compared to larger scales
Smaller Scale: This scale comes in smaller scale, affordable for enthusiast but with limited performance.
Here’s a general size guide for a 1/20 RC car:
Dimensions
- Length: Approximately 7 to 10 inches
- Width: Approximately 3.5 to 5 inches
- Height: Approximately 2 to 4 inches
- Wheelbase: Approximately 4 to 6 inches
Weight
- On-road: 0.3 to 0.7 kg
- Off-road: 0.45 to 0.9 kg
Tire Diameter
- On-road: Approximately 1 to 1.5 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches
Tire Width
- On-road: Approximately 0.5 to 1 inch
- Off-road: Approximately 0.75 to 1.25 inches
Features
- Compact bodies
- Basic suspension system
- Often 2WD
- Ideal for indoor use
- Easy to store and transport
- More affordable
Limitations
- Limited performance
- Less features
- Less detail and realism
- Not suitable for rough terrain or outdoor use
1/28 scale RC car:
1/28 scale RC car is one of the smallest scales available suitable mainly for casual use, It is perfect for indoor play.
It is suitable to the enthusiasts with very limited space. However, offers limited performance and detail.
Smaller Scales: It also comes in smaller scales that is ideal for compact spaces and affordability.
Here’s a general size guide for a 1/28 RC car:
Dimensions
- Length: Approximately 5 to 7 inches
- Width: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 inches
- Height: Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches
- Wheelbase: Approximately 3 to 4 inches
Weight
- On-road: 0.1 to 0.2 kg
- Off-road: 0.18 to 0.34 kg
Tire Diameter
- On-road: Approximately 0.75 to 1.25 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 1 to 1.5 inches
Tire Width
- On-road: Approximately 0.25 to 0.5 inches
- Off-road: Approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches
Features
- Best for indoor use
- Lowest cost
- Easy to store or transport
- Often 2WD
Limitations
- Less performance
- Limited detail and durability
- Not suitable for rough terrain
Scales Comparison
| Scale | Length (in) | Width (in) | Height (in) | Wheelbase (in) | Weight (kg) |
| 1/10 | 17-22 | 7-10 | 4-6 | 10-14 | 1.4-3.2 |
| 1/16 | 10-14 | 5-7 | 3-5 | 6-9 | 0.7-1.8 |
| 1/20 | 7-10 | 3.5-5 | 2-4 | 4-6 | 0.3-0.9 |
| 1/28 | 5-7 | 2.5-3.5 | 1.5-2.5 | 3-4 | 0.1-0.3 |
Best RC car Scale for beginners
When choosing an RC car scale for a beginner, it’s important to consider factors like ease of use, cost, durability, and the intended use (indoor vs. outdoor)
For most beginners, the 1/16 scale is often the best choice that strikes a good balance between usability, cost, and performance, making it a versatile and accessible choice.
It’s large enough to provide good handling and stability, making it easier for new users to control.
This scale offers enough power that made it durable to keep the experience exciting and enjoyable option for those new to RC cars.
However, if you have specific needs or preferences, another scale might be more suitable.
