Our top RC Buggies

Our top 5 at a glance

1. RCG Racing Wind Speed 1/16 Buggy
2. FTX Vantage 2.0 1/10 4WD Brushed Buggy
3. Maverick Phantom XB 1/10 Buggy
4. RCG Racing Storm Rider 1/16 Buggy
5. FTX Outlaw 1/10 Ultra-4 Brushed Buggy

What is an RC Buggy?

RC buggy’s were originally scale models of full-size buggies designed to race across sandy deserts. The classic silhouette is a rakish long-nosed chassis with two narrow ribbed-front-tyres mounted at the front with two wide knobbly tyres mounted at the rear, the later driven by an electric motor hung right out of the back of the chassis, a huge angled rear wing mounted high above it.

The term is now applied to a wider selection of off-road vehicles including four-wheel-drive models (normally identified by matching wide front tyres front and rear).

Why buy one?

Buggies are largely simple and uncomplicated in their design. The drive-train, motor position and resulting weight balance make for entertaining handling, plus their independent suspension and ground clearance allow them to be driven on a wide variety of terrain. 

1. RCG Racing Wind Speed 1/16 Buggy

The RCG Racing Wind Speed is a compact yet powerful buggy, ideal for both beginners and hobbyists. This 1/16 scale model features a 4WD drivetrain and is equipped with a 390-type motor, allowing it to reach speeds of over 15mph. It comes ready-to-run, including a 7.4V 2000mAh Li-Ion battery and USB charger, offering up to 30 minutes of runtime. The detailed hard-plastic body, complete with LED headlights, adds to its appeal. Its durable construction and proportional 2.4GHz radio system ensure reliable performance across various terrains.

2. FTX Vantage 2.0 1/10 4WD Brushed Buggy

The FTX Vantage 2.0 is a 1/10 scale buggy that combines proven performance with a fresh new look. It features a 4WD shaft-driven drivetrain and is powered by a 550 brushed motor, managed by a 60A waterproof brushed ESC. The package includes a 1800mAh NiMH battery and USB charger, providing up to 20 minutes of runtime. The Vantage 2.0 is equipped with adjustable turnbuckles, large bore oil-filled shocks, and metal differential gears, ensuring durability and adaptability on various terrains. Its ready-to-run setup makes it suitable for both beginners and seasoned RC enthusiasts.

3. Maverick Phantom XB 1/10 Buggy

The Maverick Phantom XB 1/10 Buggy is a versatile and user-friendly model, ideal for both newcomers and seasoned RC enthusiasts. This ready-to-run (RTR) buggy features a 4WD shaft-driven system powered by a 550 high-torque brushed motor, delivering reliable performance across various terrains. Its waterproof electronic speed controller (ESC) and water-resistant servo enhance durability, allowing for operation in diverse conditions. The package includes a 7.2V 1800mAh NiMH battery and a USB charger, ensuring convenience and extended run times. With independent double-wishbone suspension and oil-filled shock absorbers, the Phantom XB offers excellent handling and stability, making it a solid choice for those seeking a balance between performance and ease of use.

4. RCG Racing Storm Rider 1/16 Buggy

The RCG Racing Storm Rider is a 1/16 scale buggy that shares its chassis and parts with the popular Wind Speed model. It comes ready-to-run, including a 7.4V 2000mAh Li-Ion battery and USB charger, providing up to 30 minutes of runtime. The Storm Rider is capable of speeds over 15mph, powered by a 390-type motor. It features a detailed hard-plastic body with LED headlights and a removable roof-rack. The 2.4GHz proportional radio system allows for interference-free operation with multiple models. Its durable construction and off-road capabilities make it suitable for hobbyists of all ages.

5. FTX Outlaw 1/10 Ultra-4 Brushed Buggy

The FTX Outlaw is a 1/10 scale Ultra-4 brushed buggy that offers a blend of scale realism and performance. It features a 2WD drivetrain and is powered by a 550 brushed motor, managed by a water-resistant brushed ESC. The package includes a 7.2V 1800mAh NiMH battery and wall charger, providing a ready-to-run experience. The Outlaw's realistic tubular roll cage and adjustable suspension system make it adept at handling rough terrains. Its unique design and robust build quality appeal to both casual drivers and enthusiasts seeking off-road adventures.

Where can I buy an RC buggy?

We stock a wide selection of RC buggies and truggies, browse our full range on our webstore.

If you are contemplating buying a buggy and are new to the world of RC, we suggest reading our battery introduction, the basics of charging, our introduction to the controllers and (if you were considering buying one) what brushless RC cars are. These articles along with a whole host of tutorials are available in this blog site. Remember you can learn more about a specific model type via the buying guides on our webstore.

RC Geeks : Buggy ‘buffs’

As you may have gathered from the variety and depth of our reviews above, we love this chassis layout and are always interested in testing out new models. If you want to see us review a specific model, or have any questions about any of the buggies you have seen here, leave us a message. Likewise, we’d love to hear what your top 3 buggies are, so leave your list in the comments section below!