RC toys: Why it's so much fun for kids

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: March 6, 2023

Why is RC toys so much fun for kids?

RC toys are one of the most popular toys because of the many possibilities. Children can let their imagination run wild and try out their freedom of movement.

In this article you can read everything about what makes RC toys so much fun for children and what you should pay attention to when purchasing.

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What is RC Toys?

What is RC Toys?

RC toys, also called radio controlled toys, stand for Remote Control toys. This means that the toy can be controlled remotely via a remote control. In short, RC toys are toys that can be controlled remotely.

The essence of RC toys

The essence of RC toys is the wireless communication that takes place between the remote control and the vehicle. Signals are transmitted via invisible frequencies. This in order to be able to steer and maneuver the vehicle remotely. This gives children the freedom of movement to easily control the toy and avoid obstacles. RC toys can be used in different places, such as on land, in water and in the air.

How do RC toys work?

RC toys are powered by a power source, usually a battery pack. The remote control sends signals to the vehicle via radio signals. These signals are picked up by a receiver in the vehicle and converted into movement. The vehicle can then be controlled by the remote control.

Batteries and charging

RC toys are powered by a battery pack. Charging the battery usually takes a few hours and can be done via a cord that comes with the toy. When the battery is empty, it can be quickly exchanged so that you can continue driving immediately. It is important to dispose of the batteries correctly to prevent damage to the environment.

What types of RC vehicles are there?

What types of RC vehicles are there?

RC vehicles come in many shapes and sizes. Below you will find an overview of the most popular types.

RC cars

RC cars are the most popular RC vehicles and are available in many sizes and models. They are controlled using a remote control and can be powered in a variety of ways, such as electricity, nitro or gasoline.

• Electric RC cars are cheaper to buy and are easy to drive. They make little noise and do not need to be refilled with fuel. The downside is that they have less speed than nitro or petrol cars and battery life is limited.

• Nitro RC cars are faster and more powerful than electric cars and have a realistic engine sound. However, they are more expensive to purchase and require more technical knowledge to maintain.

• Gasoline RC cars are larger and more powerful than nitro or electric cars and are more economical to use. However, they are more expensive to purchase and make more noise than other types of RC cars.

RC helicopters

RC helicopters are great to fly and can be used both indoors and outdoors. They are controlled using a controller and are available in different sizes and models.

• Electric RC helicopters are easy to fly and make little noise. However, they are less powerful than nitro or petrol helicopters and have a limited flight time.

• Nitro RC helicopters are more powerful than electric helicopters and have a realistic engine sound. However, they are more expensive to purchase and require more technical knowledge to maintain.

RC boats

RC boats are perfect for racing on the water and are available in different sizes and models. They are controlled using a controller and can be powered by electricity or gasoline.

• Electric RC boats are easy to drive and make little noise. However, they are less powerful than petrol boats and have a limited running time.

• Gasoline RC boats are more powerful than electric boats and have a realistic engine sound. However, they are more expensive to purchase and make more noise than electric boats.

Examples of RC toy cars

There are many types of RC toy cars available, from luxury models to children's toy cars. Below you will find some examples:

• Chicco RC Fiat 500: a toy car for children from 2 years old with sound effects and a remote control.
• Maisto RC Lamborghini Aventador: a scale luxury RC car with realistic details and a remote control.
• Jamara RC Desertbuggy Dakar: an RC buggy for all terrain with a speed of about 20 km/h and a remote control.
• Steel RC Buggy Black: a scale RC buggy with a speed of about 15 km/h and a remote control.

Also read: these are the best RC cars you can buy right now

What should you pay attention to when buying RC vehicles?

When buying RC vehicles, it is important to pay attention to the following:

• Age: Check that the vehicle is appropriate for the child's age.
• Specifications: Check the specifications of the product to make sure it meets your needs.
• Battery life: check how long the battery life is and how long it takes to charge.
• Engine type: distinguish between electric, nitro and petrol vehicles and choose the type that suits you best.
• Technical knowledge: Please note that some vehicles require regular maintenance and you need technical knowledge to maintain them.
• Noise: Pay attention to the noise level of the vehicle, especially if you want to use it indoors.

What makes RC toys fun for kids?

RC toys are one of the best gifts you can give to a child. It is available in different categories from radio controlled cars to drones and boats. There are many reasons why every child should own an RC toy. Here are some of the main reasons why RC toys are so much fun for kids:

RC toys are cool and creative

Kids love to experiment with RC toys and pull off the craziest tricks. They can show their friends how to drive or fly their RC car or drone in the most impossible places. RC toys are a great way to stimulate children's creativity and expand their imagination.

RC toys are available in different types and price ranges

There are many types of RC toys available, from off-road buggies to remote-controlled wooden play figures. RC toys are available in different price ranges, from a few euros to hundreds of euros. So there is a suitable RC toy for every child.

RC toys are safe

While some RC toys run on fuel, most RC toys today are electrically powered. This makes RC toys safer than ever before. In addition, most RC toys are designed to take a beating, making them less likely to break.

What should you pay attention to when buying RC toys?

Age and level

First of all, it is important to look at the age of the child who will use the RC toy. There are RC cars and other vehicles available for children from the age of 3, but there are also models that are more suitable for older children. In addition, it is important to look at the level of the child. Is the child already familiar with RC toys or is this the first introduction? For beginners, simple drivable cars are often best, while older children may prefer a model they can build themselves.

Range and speed

Another important point to pay attention to is the range of the RC toy. How far can the car or vehicle go while you can still control it? This differs per model, so check carefully before you buy. In addition, the speed of the vehicle is of course also important. How fast does it go and how long does it take before the battery is empty? This is often stated somewhere in the specifications of the model.

Maneuverability and remote control

Another important point to pay attention to is the controllability of the RC toy. How easy is it to control the car or vehicle? Are there many buttons on the remote that make it difficult to control the vehicle properly? In addition, it is also important to look at the size of the remote control and the number of buttons. This differs per model and can affect how pleasant it is to drive the vehicle.

Fuel and substrates

If you are going to buy RC toys, it is also important to look at what fuel the vehicle uses. Some models run on petrol, while other models run on batteries or accumulators. In addition, it is also important to look at what surfaces the vehicle can drive on. Some models are only suitable for indoor use, while other models can also be used outdoors.

Are RC toys dangerous?

RC toys are a popular product range for children of different ages. It's a great way for kids to play and learn at the same time. However, RC toys can also be dangerous if not used properly.

Security settings and needs

It is important to know that RC toys are not dangerous in themselves, but they can be dangerous if not used properly. That's why it's important to understand the product's security settings before purchasing. Check that the product is appropriate for the age and abilities of the child and that the product meets safety standards.

Can you drive anywhere?

RC toys can be used in different places, such as at home, on the street or in the park. It is important to know where you can and cannot drive the toy. Check local laws and regulations to see where it is allowed to use RC toys.

Prices and security

RC toy prices vary depending on the brand and quality of the product. It is important to remember that a higher price does not always mean that the product is safer. Always check the product's security settings and needs, regardless of price.

What age is RC toy best for?

RC toys are a great thing for kids of all ages. Depending on the size, speed and complexity of the controllable toy, it can be suitable for children from 2 years old to adults. Here are some important aspects to pay attention to when choosing RC toys for different age groups:

Toddlers and preschoolers

For the younger kids, RC cars and trucks are available in different sizes and price ranges. The most important aspect to pay attention to is safety. RC toys for this age group should be easy to operate and contain no small parts that can be swallowed. It is also important to pay attention to the distance that the toy can travel. RC cars that drive up to 5 kilometers per hour are suitable for this age group.

Older children

For older children, RC toys offer more of a challenge. There are different variants of RC cars, boats, planes and helicopters available. The most important aspect to pay attention to is the degree of safety and the distance the toy can travel. RC cars that drive up to 20 kilometers per hour are suitable for this age group. It is also important to pay attention to the load capacity of the toy, so that it does not break easily.

Teenagers and adults

For teenagers and adults, RC cars, boats, planes and helicopters are available that are considerably more expensive than the toys for younger children. The most important aspect to pay attention to is the maximum speed and the distance the toy can travel. RC cars that drive up to 50 kilometers per hour are suitable for this age group. It is also important to pay attention to the complexity of the toy so that it does not become too difficult to operate.

Specialist RC toys

Specialized RC cars, boats, planes and helicopters are available for the real enthusiasts. These are mainly intended for adults and offer the opportunity to work with RC toys on a deeper level. For example, there are RC cars that have real engine sound outputs on which you can play your own music. These cars are often finished with a high-gloss paint and are easy to assemble.

Most Popular RC Toys

Research done by various webshops, including Bol.com and GT Garden, revealed the following most popular RC toys:

• RC cars: these are available in various sizes and price ranges. The maximum speed varies from 5 to 50 kilometers per hour and they can bear loads of up to 2 kilograms. Some RC cars have a switch that allows you to turn the LED lighting on and off.
• RC boats: these are especially popular with children from 8 years old. They are electrically powered and have a maximum speed of 20 km per hour. Some RC boats have a real engine sound output on which you can play your own music.
• RC Airplanes: These are especially popular with teens and adults. They are available in various sizes and price ranges and have a maximum speed of 50 km per hour. Some RC planes have a camera that allows you to take beautiful images while flying.

The disadvantage of RC toys is that they are often more expensive than other gadgets and gadgets. But honestly, it's well worth the price. RC toys offer hours of fun for young and old and are a great way to play together.

Conclusion

It's great to see kids expressing themselves with RC toys.

It is an excellent alternative to a game console or tablet and a way to stimulate their creativity and imagination. It is also a way to improve their motor skills.

So it is definitely worth buying an RC model and it will change their lives forever.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.