1/10 vs 1/12 RC Scale – Which One to Pick For Your Car?

Getting confused after seeing loads of RC scale varieties out there? However, you might find two specific scales quite vital- 1/10 and 1/12. Still, confused about which one to pick? 

Worry not, we can relate to your dilemma! In this article, we show you which aspects to focus on and how to differentiate them!

So, what are the major differences between 1/10 vs 1/12 RC?

Well, a 1/10 RC scale can provide top speed and acceleration. And, you will get bigger tires here which make bumpy road actions more comfortable. In terms of availability issues, the 1/12 radio-controlled scale wins over the 1/10 scale. Also, it’s quite versatile and brings unique features!

That’s not all, in-depth comparisons are coming on your way! So, stay with us till the end.

1/10 vs 1/12 RC: A Quick Glimpse

Being a noob or ignorant of different scales of RC cars is quite normal. It’s not your fault! 

Users overall do not get a clear idea of what RC they have got! That’s why we bring you a quick overlook. Here, you can explore the table to comprehend all the factors at a glance.

[su_table]

Compared Factors1/10 RC1/12 RC
BuildBiggerTinier
Top-speedMoreAverage
WeightAround 5 poundsAround 4 pounds
AvailabilityLessHigh
PricingLesserHigher
HandlingEasierAverage

[/su_table]

Well, now you have the basic idea of both of these RC scales. Excited to know our verdict? But you still need to learn these things a bit deeper to reach there.

1/10 vs 1/12 RC: Detailed Comparison

Remember the aspects given in the table we talked about just earlier? In this section, we deliver a thorough overview of these aspects of both RC scales. 

  • Build and Weight

The 1/10 scale RC is a bit scaled-up rendition of the 1/12 scale. And, the bigger the scale, the heavier and weightier the RC car will be!

In this manner, 1/10 scale contains a bit more weight than 1/12 is 5 pounds around. However, the 1/12 RC scale does not bring so much lighter version. It might show up around 4 pounds. 

And, what about the built quality? Well, 1/10 scale leads here! 

With higher durability along with robust materials, 1/10 is more capable of enduring hits and collisions. Along with that, this RC scale will not let you down on coarse terrains. 

In the meantime, the 1/12 scale does the job pretty well too. However, comparing these might keep this scale a bit downgraded than the 1/10 scale.

And, the 1/12 usually has a more limited physique compared to the 1/10 scale. On the other hand, a 1/10 scale carries lesser weight making the RC car lighter overall. 

As a result, you will find it suitable for off-road racing competitions. In the meantime, 2WD and 4WD are the versions that both the RC scales bring up! 

Most pan cars come with the 1/12 scale which is not effective for on-road beginners. Meanwhile, 1/10 can be much more effortless to work on and handle.

Winner: 1/10 RC.

  • Acceleration and Top-Speed

You will find the 1/10 RC scale more accelerated compared to the 1/12 RC. Basically, 1/10 has got a tinier build structure helping to gain top speed. 

But you can not keep the 1/12 scale out of the league. It can boast higher power delivering high-end speed too. And in terms of better components, a 1/10 scale will make your car something special.

A good motor has the ability to transform an average RC into a great one! That’s a huge shift, right? 

Winner: 1/10 RC.

  • Tire Size

Picking suitable RC scales tire dimensions often stay underrated among RC users. But here’s a simple tip to follow! You should be aware of tire sizing as it determines the usability of your RC! 

How good or bad will your RC car be on certain terrains? Well, you can indicate this from tire size too. 

The 1/10 has the bigger tires between the 1/10 and 1/12 RC scales. The bigger one’s tire diameter stays between 60 to 65 mm. 

On the other hand, the 1/12 scale comes with 40.8 mm in its front diameter. Meanwhile, the rear side brings 41.3 mm. 

Meanwhile, RC cars carrying bigger tires always bring up better advantages than smaller ones. 

A more oversized RC car delivers an easier time driving through bumpy and rough surfaces for starters. 

Also, you do not need to worry about handling and controlling cars carrying a 1/10 scale. It can serve with higher improvements in these fields. 

What about driving in the snow too? Highly possible through this site. And also, loose dirt racing highly suits a 1/10 scale. 

While considering fewer bumps throughout the journey might bring decent performance from 1/12 too.

Winner: 1/10 RC.

  • Availability and Pricing

Got your budget tighter? The 1/10 scale can easily suit your budget. It starts at only $100 and goes up to $300 in some cases. 

At the same time, the 1/10 RC scale comes with more improved performance and hardware. Unfortunately, you will not find the cheapest 1/10 scales available nowadays. But no unavailable cases are there for a 1/12 scale.

In the meantime, 1/12 is a bit more expensive. This scale might be available within the $250 to $400 range. 

Winner: 1/12 RC.

What to Choose?

Apart from availability issues, 1/10 RC rules over each aspect. From tire size to top performance, 1/10 RC serves better other than 1/12!

FAQ’s

Q: What Does The Gear Ratio Represent On An RC Car?

Ans: This ratio is the teeth number of gears divided by the teeth number of mating gears. So, it represents the two teeth ratio. Meanwhile, gear ratio exists in every RC car for each mating tandem of gears. Without this ratio, you can not differentiate control speed or even torque power. 

Q: What Is The Best Scale Ratio For An RC Vehicle?

Ans: The most typical dimension or scale of a Radio Controlled vehicle is a 1:8 scale. Experts also suggest this proportion of the gear might bring the best result. In the meantime, mini RC vehicles come with even much smaller scales. Those are most likely scales of 1:64 which can be ideal too.

Q: Which Is More Suitable 1/10 Scale Or 1/16 Scale?

Ans: A 1/10 can have more suitable ground clearance. And, it’s more comfortable to work on compared to the 1/16 scale. For bashing, a 1/10-scale is highly recommended for its higher ability in tackling different terrain types. But a 1/16 scale can not provide your car that much ability.

Final Words

Now you know everything between 1/10 vs 1/12 RC! We have tried to show you a clear image of these RC scales. 

Got anything in your head to share? Feel free to let us know.

That’s all from today! Happy racing!

Chris Goforth

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