Rock crawlers are the new trend, and some of the best rc cars out there. They’re not as fast as some of the best off-road buggies out there, but they really aren’t meant to be – they’re here to get through the toughest terrain, letting you blast your way with torque and maximum control.

Our two favorite entries to the industry are the TRX-4 Scale and Trail Crawler, a beautifully realistic Land Rover replica from high-end RC expert Traxxas, and the mid-range FTX5570 Outlaw from FTX, dressed as a buggy from the Ultra-4 desert but able to go slowly and steadily when needed.

But what is the creme de la creme creeping? Which truck can you trust to spill the mud? Let’s break them down and find out.

Traxxas TRX-4 vs. FTX FTX5570 Outlaw: Price

There is no getting around it. The TRX-4 is an expensive RC car. It’s not as high end as Traxxas’ XO-1 supercar (in fact it’s about half the price) but at around £ 575 / $ 499 / AU $ 800 it’s not a toy pocket money. This is an enthusiast level 1:10 scale platform that comes ready to go.

The FTX FTX5570 (also in 1:10 scale) is much cheaper, with an MSRP of £ 139 / AU $ 285 – in the US you’re considering an import, so expect a price of around 250 $. This makes it perfect for budget buyers looking to play with rock crawling (and, indeed, enjoy its straight-line speed) for the first time.

So the FTX wins on the price, right? Well, yes, it is cheaper. But the investment you make in the Traxxas model might be a better spend overall, as we’ll find out: The Outlaw is rough and ready, but he’s also nervous and fragile.

Traxxas TRX-4 vs. FTX FTX5570 Outlaw: Conception

In terms of realism, the Traxxas TRX-4 wins here: if you’ve ever wanted a small Land Rover Defender, this is absolutely it, making the most of its license. It sounds very good; the only thing missing is a working winch up front, and we are the ones who are obnoxiously demanding.

The FTX FTX5570 Outlaw is a much more standard RC car fare, with a raised body and a much more plastic look. Note that both models come with spare tires that can be replaced if you hit too rough terrain.

The outer shell isn’t the only concern, however. What’s underneath really matters, and the extra investment you make in Traxxas’ crawler really makes a difference here. The FTX is no slouch, with serious oil-filled shocks, a lightweight frame, and a 550 engine underneath.

But the TRX-4’s portal axles elevate it, its TitanT 21T reverse-rotating motor gives it power, and its steel frame makes it one of the stiffest RC cars around.

Traxxas TRX-4 vs. FTX FTX5570 Outlaw: Speed

The Outlaw often feels like he’s on the run, easily hitting a 30km / h clip and possibly pushing even further depending on your battery, with his power driven by a 4-shaft drive. driving wheels. Keep the throttle low and there’s definitely enough torque (and pretty flexible dampers) to tackle just about any terrain.

The TRX-4 is nowhere near that fast. While modders have managed to get their TRX-4s to around 50km / h, a stock bone model will instead give you 8km / h on low speed, 14km / h on high. Honestly, even the lowest speed is probably a little high if you are working on particularly rough terrain, but it does give you good range to play.

Traxxas TRX-4 vs. FTX FTX5570 Outlaw: Control

There’s a clear winner here: The TRX-4 can be whatever you want it to be, with five smart ride modes that take it anywhere from Race mode (which cuts off reverse) to Crawl mode. (which applies a 100% neutral holding brake) to a special drive mode that applies half the power so kids can safely try. You can shift into high or low gear, and lock the differentials remotely; it absolutely looks like the total package.

The FTX5570 does not have the same control range – it is more of a manual dexterity test than a modern set of equipment. It can be a bit nervous when running, especially over rough terrain, and many users say it tends to tip and roll with little provocation; you might want to experiment with its adjustable shocks and reposition the battery weight to find the right balance for you.

Traxxas TRX-4 vs FTX FTX5570 Outlaw: which is better?

The Traxxas TRX-4 is the best. It’s just. He is one of the most respected rock crawlers. It’s great fun to tinker with, has a whole load of functions to explore, and it comes and goes. If you are looking to invest in the RC hobby and even have a passing interest in rock crawling, this is the one for you.

But the FTX FTX5570 is faster. It is less expensive. It is arguably more versatile. And maybe it is even more fun? It would depend on what you wanted to do with it, of course, but there is something to be said for a newbie car with a good price tag and plenty of perks.