When shopping for RC (Radio Controlled) cars or planes, you’ll often see terms like RTR, Kit, RTF, and ARTF. These acronyms describe the level of assembly required before you can start enjoying your new RC vehicle or aircraft. Choosing the right option depends on your experience level, interest in building, and how quickly you want to get started. Here, we’ll break down the differences between these options to help you make an informed decision.
What Does RTR Mean?
RTR stands for “Ready-to-Run,” and it’s a popular choice for beginners and hobbyists who want to get started quickly.
Features of RTR RC Cars:
- Pre-Assembled: RTR cars come fully built straight out of the box. There’s no need for complicated assembly.
- Includes Electronics: They typically include all necessary components, such as the motor, ESC (Electronic Speed Controller), servo, and transmitter.
- Plug and Play: You may only need to add batteries or charge the included battery pack to get started.
- Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for those new to RC cars who want a hassle-free experience.
Common Uses for RTR RC Cars:
RTR cars are ideal for casual users and beginners who want to enjoy their vehicle immediately without worrying about assembly or selecting components. At radio-controlled.co.uk, we offer a range of RTR RC cars that are perfect for newcomers.
What is a Kit RC Car?
A Kit RC Car is sold as a collection of parts that you assemble yourself. These are geared towards hobbyists who enjoy the process of building and customizing their vehicles.
Features of Kit RC Cars:
- Unassembled: Kits require you to put the car together, including installing the motor, suspension, and drivetrain.
- Customization: You choose your own electronics, such as the motor, ESC, and transmitter, allowing for tailored performance.
- Skill Development: Building a kit teaches you about the mechanics and electronics of RC cars, which can be helpful for repairs and upgrades.
- Time Investment: Assembly can take several hours, depending on the complexity of the kit.
Common Uses for Kit RC Cars:
Kit RC cars are popular with enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on projects and want to fine-tune their vehicle’s performance. They’re also great for racers who need specific setups for competitive events.
What About RC Planes? RTF vs. ARTF
If you’re looking at RC planes, you’ll come across similar terms:
RTF (Ready-to-Fly):
- Like RTR cars, RTF planes come pre-assembled and ready to use.
- They include all necessary components, such as the motor, ESC, servos, and transmitter.
- Minimal setup is required, making them perfect for beginners.
ARTF (Almost Ready-to-Fly):
- ARTF planes require partial assembly, such as attaching the wings or installing the motor and electronics.
- They offer a balance between ease of use and customization.
- Ideal for hobbyists who want some assembly but not the full build process of a kit.
At radio-controlled.co.uk, we sell both RTF planes for beginners and ARTF planes for those who want a bit more involvement in the setup.
Comparison Table: RTR vs. Kit RC Cars (and RTF vs. ARTF Planes)
| Feature | RTR RC Cars/RTF Planes | Kit RC Cars/ARTF Planes |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly Required | None or minimal | Partial to full assembly |
| Ease of Use | High | Moderate |
| Customization | Limited | High |
| Skill Level | Beginner-friendly | Best for intermediate to advanced |
| Time Investment | Minimal | Significant |
| Component Choice | Pre-selected | User-selected |
Which Should You Choose?
Your decision between RTR and Kit RC cars (or RTF and ARTF planes) depends on your preferences:
- Choose RTR/RTF: If you’re new to the hobby or want to start driving or flying right away with minimal effort.
- Choose Kit/ARTF: If you enjoy building, customizing, and learning about your RC vehicle’s mechanics and electronics.
Why Buy From Radio-Controlled.co.uk?
At radio-controlled.co.uk, we stock a wide range of RTR RC cars, Kit RC cars, RTF planes, and ARTF planes to suit all experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for simplicity or an enthusiast seeking customization, we’ve got you covered. Explore our selection today and find the perfect RC vehicle or plane for your needs!