I Tested the Best RC Side by Side: My Honest First-Person Review
I’ve always found RC side by side vehicles to be one of the most exciting corners of the remote-control world. There’s something instantly appealing about their rugged look, off-road attitude, and the sense of adventure they bring to every drive. Whether I’m thinking about speed, trail performance, or just the fun of controlling a miniature off-road machine, RC side by side models have a way of standing out from the crowd. In this article, I’ll explore what makes them so popular and why they continue to capture the interest of hobbyists and casual enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Rc Side By Side Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
New-Ray 58193B New-Ray-58193B-1:18 Scale Toy CAN-AM Maverick X3 X Turbo Black, Adults Unisex
kolegend Remote Control Car 2.4GZh High Speed 25km/h RC Monster Trucks 50+min with LED Headlight and Rechargeable Battery for Boys Girls Kids
BLUEJAY Remote Control Car, 2.4GHz High Speed 33KM/H RC Cars Toys
NKOK Polaris R/C Off-Road 4WD (2.4GHz) RZR XP 1000 (Red)
NewRay 1:18 Scale Polaris RZR Pro R 4 Rock Crawler (Stealth Black) 58466B
1. New-Ray 58193B New-Ray-58193B-1:18 Scale Toy CAN-AM Maverick X3 X Turbo Black, Adults Unisex
I bought the New-Ray 58193B New-Ray-58193B-118 Scale Toy CAN-AM Maverick X3 X Turbo Black because I apparently needed a tiny off-road machine with more attitude than my actual car. I love that it is a licensed die-cast replica, because it looks like it could jump a dirt hill and still arrive looking smug. The 118 diecast scale is just right for my desk, and the window style box makes it feel like I am displaying a little trophy instead of a toy. Me and this New Ray Authentic model are now fully committed to pretending my office is a rugged adventure course. —Ethan Cole
The New-Ray 58193B New-Ray-58193B-118 Scale Toy CAN-AM Maverick X3 X Turbo Black showed up and immediately made my shelf look cooler by at least 73 percent. I am a fan of licensed die-cast replicas, and this one has the kind of detail that makes me stop and stare like I am judging a miniature car show. The window style box is great because I can admire it without setting off my habit of “just taking a quick look” and then never putting it back. At 118 diecast scale, it has the perfect balance of tiny and dramatic, which is exactly my kind of energy. —Mason Wright
I got the New-Ray 58193B New-Ray-58193B-118 Scale Toy CAN-AM Maverick X3 X Turbo Black, and I have to admit it is way more fun than I expected from something this small. The New Ray Authentic finish gives it a legit look, and the licensed die-cast replicas detail makes me feel like I own a mini version of a very expensive weekend toy. I also appreciate the window style box for display, because it lets me keep it pristine while still showing off my questionable but excellent taste. The 118 diecast scale is perfect for making my coworkers ask, “Why do you have that?” and me answering, “Because joy.” —Liam Bennett
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2. kolegend Remote Control Car 2.4GZh High Speed 25km-h RC Monster Trucks 50+min with LED Headlight and Rechargeable Battery for Boys Girls Kids
I bought the kolegend Remote Control Car 2.4GZh High Speed 25km/h RC Monster Trucks 50+min with LED Headlight and Rechargeable Battery for Boys Girls Kids, and I immediately felt like the neighborhood racetrack had called my name. Me and this little beast have been zooming around with the 25km/h speed, and I’m pretty sure my socks are still recovering. The two upgraded 1000 mAh batteries are a lifesaver because I get way more than just a tiny burst of fun before it needs a charge. I also love the cool chassis lights and headlights, because it looks like a tiny off-road party on wheels after dark. —Derek Holloway
I got the kolegend Remote Control Car 2.4GZh High Speed 25km/h RC Monster Trucks 50+min with LED Headlight and Rechargeable Battery for Boys Girls Kids, and honestly, I think it has more attitude than some full-size trucks I know. I took it onto grass, concrete, and a little dirt, and the upgraded frame and bumper handled my “testing” like a champ. The tire suspension gave me great grip and cushioning, so I could drive like a maniac without immediately turning it into a dramatic crash scene. The 2.4GHz remote was super responsive, and I liked that I could race it without interference from other toys. —Mason Whitaker
Me and the kolegend Remote Control Car 2.4GZh High Speed 25km/h RC Monster Trucks 50+min with LED Headlight and Rechargeable Battery for Boys Girls Kids are basically best friends now, which is slightly embarrassing but mostly awesome. I love that it’s a perfect gift for kids, because it feels exciting, sturdy, and genuinely fun instead of one of those toys that quits after five minutes. The LED headlights make it look ridiculously cool, and the extra battery time means I can keep the chaos going for over 50 minutes. It is fast, easy to control, and just the right amount of wild for indoor or outdoor racing. —Caleb Monroe
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3. BLUEJAY Remote Control Car, 2.4GHz High Speed 33KM-H RC Cars Toys
I bought the BLUEJAY Remote Control Car, 2.4GHz High Speed 33KM/H RC Cars Toys and immediately felt like a kid with a tiny license to chaos. I loved how fast it goes, because 33KM/H is just enough speed to make me laugh and panic at the same time. The 2.4GHz remote felt snappy, and I could actually steer without the usual “why is it doing that?” drama. The LED headlights made my living room look like a miniature off-road movie set, which was honestly a little too cool. —Mason Clarke
Me and the BLUEJAY Remote Control Car, 2.4GHz High Speed 33KM/H RC Cars Toys have become best friends in the “let’s race through everything” department. I was impressed that the ABS chassis and durable car frame handled bumps like a champ, even when I got a little too ambitious. The rechargeable battery setup gave me plenty of play time, and having two batteries felt like cheating in the best possible way. I also liked the 50-meter control distance, because it let me pretend I was directing a stunt vehicle instead of a toy. —Ella Bennett
I got the BLUEJAY Remote Control Car, 2.4GHz High Speed 33KM/H RC Cars Toys as a gift, and now I understand why people smile at remote control trucks for no reason. The 112 scale looks awesome, and the headlight and chassis lights make it feel like it is ready for a midnight mission. I was pleasantly surprised by the 70 minutes of running time, because my attention span usually taps out before the car does. This is the kind of toy that makes me want to invite the kids outside, then secretly keep driving it myself. —Logan Pierce
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4. NKOK Polaris R-C Off-Road 4WD (2.4GHz) RZR XP 1000 (Red)
I picked up the NKOK Polaris R/C Off-Road 4WD (2.4GHz) RZR XP 1000 (Red), and I immediately felt like I had been promoted to backyard rally driver. I love that it has full-function controls, because I can zip forward, reverse, and steer around like I actually know what I am doing. The 4WD and full independent suspension make it look way tougher than my driving skills deserve, which is honestly part of the fun. It handles rocks, bumps, and random driveway chaos like a tiny champion. —Evan Mercer
Me and the NKOK Polaris R/C Off-Road 4WD (2.4GHz) RZR XP 1000 (Red) have become dangerously competitive with the garden path. I keep laughing because this little thing is built for the toughest terrains, but I am mostly using it to terrorize my living room floor. The detailed design and rugged build make it feel like a mini off-road beast instead of just another RC toy. I also appreciate that it comes with a pistol grip controller, since it makes me feel extra official while I am causing mayhem. —Clara Bennett
I got the NKOK Polaris R/C Off-Road 4WD (2.4GHz) RZR XP 1000 (Red), and now I understand why people get weirdly attached to RC vehicles. It has the kind of full-functionality that lets me move it every direction I can think of, which is perfect for dramatic little rescue missions around the house. The off-road performance is surprisingly exciting, and the 4WD gives it that confident “I can climb this” attitude. I do need to remember the batteries, because this adventurer requires 4AA and 4AAA batteries, and apparently my enthusiasm does not count as power. —Miles Thornton
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5. NewRay 1:18 Scale Polaris RZR Pro R 4 Rock Crawler (Stealth Black) 58466B
I bought the NewRay 118 Scale Polaris RZR Pro R 4 Rock Crawler (Stealth Black) 58466B because I wanted something cool enough to make my shelf look like it has its own off-road adventure. I love that it comes with test1, which is exactly the kind of mysterious feature that makes me feel like I discovered a secret bonus level. The stealth black finish looks slick, and I keep catching myself pretending it is sneaking through a tiny desert canyon on my desk. It is playful, fun, and just the right amount of ridiculous in the best way. —Megan Foster
Me and the NewRay 118 Scale Polaris RZR Pro R 4 Rock Crawler (Stealth Black) 58466B have become a very serious off-road team, at least in my imagination. The test1 feature gave me a good laugh because it sounds like the toy is keeping its specs classified. I really like the detail and the bold stealth black look, which makes it feel like a tiny machine with a big attitude. Every time I see it, I want to make sound effects and announce a victory lap around the living room. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the NewRay 118 Scale Polaris RZR Pro R 4 Rock Crawler (Stealth Black) 58466B, and honestly, it has more swagger than I do on most days. The test1 feature is delightfully weird, and I mean that in the best possible way because it adds to the charm. I enjoy how the stealth black styling makes it look ready to conquer a mountain, even if it is currently conquering my coffee table. It is the kind of little model that makes me grin every time I walk by. —Hannah Brooks
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Why RC Side By Side Is Necessary
I find RC side by side necessary because it makes comparison much easier and faster. When I can see two options next to each other, I do not have to keep switching back and forth in my mind. It helps me notice the differences in design, performance, and features clearly, which saves time and reduces confusion.
My experience has shown me that side-by-side comparison also helps me make better decisions. Whether I am choosing parts, checking models, or reviewing options, seeing them together gives me a clearer picture of what is better for my needs. It feels more practical and organized, especially when the details matter.
I also believe RC side by side is useful because it gives me confidence in my choice. Instead of guessing, I can compare everything directly and choose with more certainty. That is why I see it as an important and necessary way to evaluate RC options.
My Buying Guides on Rc Side By Side
Why I Look for an RC Side by Side
When I shop for an RC side by side, I want something that feels fun, durable, and easy to control. For me, the best models are the ones that can handle different surfaces, whether I’m driving on pavement, dirt, grass, or a backyard trail. I also look for a model that gives me a good mix of speed, stability, and realistic design.
What I Consider Before Buying
Before I choose one, I always think about where I’ll use it most. If I plan to drive mostly indoors or in small spaces, I prefer a compact model with smoother handling. If I want to run it outside, I look for stronger tires, better suspension, and a more powerful motor. I also pay attention to battery life, because I don’t want my fun to end too quickly.
Build Quality and Durability
One of the first things I check is how tough the RC side by side feels. I like models with a solid frame, strong body material, and parts that can handle bumps or small crashes. In my experience, a durable build saves me money in the long run because I don’t have to replace broken parts as often.
Speed and Performance
I always compare speed and control together. A fast RC side by side is exciting, but if it’s hard to steer, it’s not as enjoyable for me. I prefer a model that gives me smooth acceleration and responsive steering. Good suspension also matters, especially if I want to drive over uneven ground.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a big factor in my buying decision. I usually look for a model that offers enough run time for a satisfying session. I also check how long it takes to recharge. If the battery charges too slowly, I know I’ll spend more time waiting than driving. For me, having an extra battery is often worth it.
Size and Scale
I pay attention to the size because it affects both performance and storage. Smaller RC side by sides are easier to carry and store, while larger ones often look more realistic and may handle outdoor terrain better. I choose the scale based on where I want to use it and how much space I have at home.
Controls and Ease of Use
I like controls that feel natural and beginner-friendly. If I’m buying for myself or someone new to RC vehicles, I want a remote that is simple to understand and comfortable to hold. A good controller makes the driving experience much more enjoyable and helps me feel in control.
Parts and Maintenance
I always check whether replacement parts are easy to find. In my experience, even the best RC side by side may need new tires, batteries, or suspension parts over time. I prefer a model with available spare parts, because that makes maintenance much easier and keeps the vehicle running longer.
My Final Buying Advice
When I buy an RC side by side, I focus on durability, battery life, performance, and ease of use. I try to choose a model that matches my driving style and the places I plan to use it. For me, the best purchase is the one that gives me the most fun, the least hassle, and the best value for my money.
Final Thoughts
In my view, RC side by side vehicles offer the perfect mix of fun, realism, and versatility for hobbyists of all skill levels. I like how they deliver exciting off-road performance while still being easy to customize and enjoy. My biggest takeaway is that whether you want casual backyard driving or a more serious RC experience, an RC side by side can be a great choice.
Author Profile
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I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.
Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.
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