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- Best overall: ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR
- Best budget: Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR
- Best premium: Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate
- Best for compact spaces: ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR
- ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR is the speed-focused pick, with a stated top speed of 50+ mph on 3S power.
- Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR balances four-wheel drive with a stated 35+ mph top speed.
- ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR is a compact 1/18-scale option for smaller driving areas.
- Check the listed battery and charger contents before choosing; included equipment varies by model and package.
- Compare drivetrain, scale, speed, and replacement-part availability before choosing a Black Friday 2026 RC truck.
Traxxas Rustler and ARRMA Granite RC trucks each have strong Black Friday 2026 contenders, with 2WD and 4WD options spanning 1/18 and 1/10 scale. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to help match each model to its driver, terrain, and preferred level of speed.
The Rustler lineup includes approachable brushed models and faster VXL versions, while Granite choices range from a compact GROM to powerful 4WD trucks. Our Best bet for an all-around mix of speed and traction is the ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR. Treat stated speed figures as manufacturer claims, and confirm battery, charger, and radio details on the specific listing.
How We Picked
- Compared manufacturer-listed scale, drivetrain, motor type, and stated speed to identify the differences shoppers notice first.
- Reviewed product specifications, owner feedback, and common use cases such as beginner driving, rough ground, and compact spaces.
- Included both brushed and brushless models, along with 2WD and 4WD configurations, to cover different skill levels and priorities.
- Favored picks with clearly differentiated features and recognizable model names, rather than ranking every truck by speed alone.
- Considered practical ownership details, including battery and charger requirements, durability features, and the availability of compatible replacement parts.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Scale | Drivetrain | Stated speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR | New RC drivers | 1/10 | 2WD | 35+ mph |
| Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR | Brushed 4WD driving | 1/10 | 4WD | 35+ mph |
| Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR | Experienced speed-focused drivers | 1/10 | 4WD | 65+ mph with 3S LiPo |
| Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate | Premium Rustler upgrades | 1/10 | 4WD | 65+ mph with 3S LiPo |
| ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR | Entry-level 2WD bashing | 1/10 | 2WD | 30+ mph with 2S LiPo |
| ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR | Fast all-around 4WD driving | 1/10 | 4WD | 50+ mph on 3S |
| ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR | Compact spaces | 1/18 | 4WD | Not listed |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR
The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR is the best straightforward starter truck for drivers who want simple rear-wheel-drive fun, with a stated top speed of 35+ mph. The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR's brushed setup keeps the driving experience approachable.
Best for: New RC drivers and backyard bashing
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drivetrain
- 2WD
- Motor
- Titan 12-turn 550 brushed
- Stated speed
- 35+ mph
- Simple brushed power system
- Large 1/10-scale platform
- Easy-to-understand 2WD handling
- Rear-wheel drive has less traction than 4WD on loose ground
Is the Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR is a sensible Black Friday 2026 choice for new drivers who want a full-size-feeling 1/10-scale truck and a brushed setup. The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR's stated 35+ mph speed provides room to grow.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR is the best Rustler for drivers who want four-wheel-drive traction without a brushless power system, with a stated top speed of 35+ mph. The brushed configuration suits controlled everyday driving.
Best for: Brushed 4WD driving
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Motor
- Titan 12-turn 550 brushed
- Stated speed
- 35+ mph
- Four-wheel drive improves traction
- Brushed power is approachable
- Versatile 1/10 scale
- Less peak speed than the VXL Rustler options
Is the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR is worth considering for drivers who value 4WD grip and a manageable brushed setup. The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR's stated 35+ mph speed suits fun driving without moving up to the faster VXL power system.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR is the best Rustler for experienced drivers chasing high speed, with a stated top speed of 65+ mph using a 3S LiPo battery. The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR's brushless system calls for confident throttle control.
Best for: Experienced speed-focused drivers
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Motor
- Velineon brushless system
- Stated speed
- 65+ mph with 3S LiPo
- Fast brushless power
- Four-wheel-drive traction
- Adjustable handling features
- High speed is less forgiving for inexperienced drivers
Is the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR is a strong Black Friday 2026 pick for experienced RC drivers seeking brushless acceleration. The manufacturer states 65+ mph with a 3S LiPo battery, so confirm the required battery and charger separately.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate is the best premium Rustler for drivers who want upgraded hardware and brushless speed, with a stated top speed of 65+ mph using a 3S LiPo battery. The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate's upgraded components distinguish it from the standard VXL.
Best for: Premium Rustler upgrades
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Motor
- Velineon brushless system
- Stated speed
- 65+ mph with 3S LiPo
- Brushless power
- Upgraded components over standard versions
- Four-wheel drive
- Advanced performance is more than many beginners need
Is the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate is worth a look for experienced drivers who want a Rustler with premium upgrades and VXL brushless performance. The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate's stated 65+ mph capability uses a 3S LiPo battery, so review the package requirements.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR
The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR is the best Granite for drivers who want a simple 2WD entry point, with a stated speed of 30+ mph when equipped with a 2S LiPo battery. The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR's brushed motor keeps the setup accessible.
Best for: Entry-level 2WD bashing
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drivetrain
- 2WD
- Motor
- MEGA 550 brushed
- Stated speed
- 30+ mph with 2S LiPo
- Straightforward brushed setup
- Large 1/10-scale truck
- Simple 2WD platform
- 2WD offers less traction than the 4WD Granite models
Is the ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR is a practical Black Friday 2026 pick for drivers starting with a 1/10-scale 2WD truck. The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR's stated 30+ mph speed requires a 2S LiPo battery, so check what the selected package includes.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6 · Top pick
ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR
The ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR is the best overall choice for drivers seeking fast, all-terrain 4WD performance, with a stated top speed of 50+ mph on 3S power. The ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR's brushless system delivers a substantial step up from brushed models.
Best for: Fast all-around 4WD driving
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Motor
- Brushless 3S BLX system
- Stated speed
- 50+ mph on 3S
- Brushless power
- Four-wheel drive for varied terrain
- High stated speed
- Fast performance asks for careful throttle control
Is the ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR is a strong Black Friday 2026 buy for drivers who want a fast 1/10-scale 4WD truck. The ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR's manufacturer-stated 50+ mph speed on 3S makes it the lineup's most balanced high-performance pick.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR
The ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR is the best compact pick for younger or space-conscious drivers, with a 1/18 scale and 4WD layout. The ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR's smaller footprint is easier to accommodate than a full-size 1/10 truck.
Best for: Compact spaces and smaller drivers
- Scale
- 1/18
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Motor
- MEGA 380 brushed
- Battery system
- 2S LiPo platform
- Compact 1/18 scale
- Four-wheel drive
- Brushed power is approachable
- Smaller size is less suited to large, rough terrain
Is the ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR is a good Black Friday 2026 choice for drivers who need a compact 4WD truck. The ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR's 1/18 scale fits smaller driving areas better than the full-size 1/10 Granite models.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better, Traxxas Rustler or ARRMA Granite?
The ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR is the better pick for fast all-terrain driving, while the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR suits shoppers who prefer brushed power and a stated 35+ mph top speed. Both brands have several versions, so compare model names rather than relying on the family name alone.
Rustler gives shoppers clear steps from the 2WD XL-5 to 4WD brushed and VXL brushless options. Granite likewise ranges from the 2WD MEGA to the compact GROM and the faster 4WD 3S BLX. For loose ground, the 4WD choices provide traction at all four wheels; for simpler driving, the 2WD models are more direct.
Easy recommendation: choose the Rustler 2WD XL-5 for an approachable starting point, the Granite GROM for compact spaces, or the Granite 3S BLX for high-speed 4WD.
Which Rustler or Granite is best for beginners?
The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR is a good beginner pick because its 1/10 scale, brushed motor, and 2WD layout make the basic controls easy to understand. The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR is another beginner-friendly option, with a brushed 550 motor and a manufacturer-stated 30+ mph when using a 2S LiPo.
Drivers who want extra traction can step up to the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 XL-5 RTR. The brushed motor keeps the power system less aggressive than the brushless Rustler and Granite options, while 4WD helps the truck put power down on uneven surfaces.
Adult supervision is sensible for younger drivers, especially around roads, people, and pets. Start in an open area, use a gentle throttle setting where available, and read the model manual before driving.
Which model is fastest for Black Friday 2026?
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR and Traxxas Rustler 4X4 Ultimate lead this selection with a manufacturer-stated 65+ mph top speed using a 3S LiPo battery. Those numbers make the two brushless Rustlers the speed leaders in this guide, ahead of the ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR at a stated 50+ mph on 3S.
High speed needs room, a suitable surface, and a driver who can manage acceleration and braking. Speed claims depend on setup, battery, gearing, and conditions; review manufacturer instructions before choosing a battery or changing gearing.
For many shoppers, the Granite 3S BLX is the more balanced fast pick. Its 4WD layout and brushless system make it a capable all-rounder, while the Rustler VXL models make more sense for drivers prioritizing maximum stated speed.
Do the trucks include a battery and charger?
Battery and charger contents depend on the exact Traxxas Rustler or ARRMA Granite package, so check the Black Friday 2026 product listing before checkout. RTR means ready-to-run, but it does not guarantee every listing includes a battery and charger.
The Rustler VXL speed claims specify a 3S LiPo battery, and the Granite 3S BLX speed claim also refers to 3S power. The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA speed figure specifies a 2S LiPo. Confirm battery compatibility, charger requirements, and whether a transmitter is included in the exact package.
A compatible battery and charger add to the practical setup cost and affect the first-drive experience. Buyers who already own compatible equipment should verify connector and voltage requirements rather than assuming that a battery from another RC car fits.
What should you compare before choosing an RC truck?
Compare scale, drivetrain, motor, and battery requirements first: those four details distinguish the 1/18 ARRMA Granite GROM from the 1/10 Rustler and Granite trucks. Scale helps indicate the truck's footprint, while drivetrain and motor type shape traction and acceleration.
Brushed models such as the Rustler XL-5 and Granite MEGA are accessible options for everyday driving. Brushless models such as the Rustler VXL and Granite 3S BLX target higher performance. A 4WD truck suits drivers who want more traction on loose or uneven ground; 2WD remains a simple, direct choice.
For Black Friday 2026, compare the exact model and package, not just the brand or product-family name. Review return terms, parts support, included accessories, and the manual's battery guidance. The lowest advertised listing is not automatically the best match if essential gear is missing.
Buying Guide
Choose 2WD or 4WD
The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR and ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR are 2WD choices, while the other trucks here use 4WD. Pick 2WD for a simple platform; choose 4WD when traction on loose ground matters more.
Match the motor to your experience
Brushed trucks such as the Rustler XL-5 models and Granite MEGA are approachable for routine driving. Brushless Rustler VXL and Granite 3S BLX models prioritize speed and acceleration, making them a better fit for experienced drivers.
Think about scale and space
The 1/18 ARRMA Granite GROM suits smaller driving areas and easier storage. The 1/10 Rustler and Granite trucks have a larger footprint and need more open room to drive safely.
Confirm battery and charger details
Check the exact listing for included batteries, chargers, and compatible connectors. Speed figures tied to 2S or 3S LiPo batteries depend on using the specified power system and following the manufacturer's safety instructions.
Compare exact package names
Rustler and Granite families include meaningfully different versions. Verify the full model name, drivetrain, motor, included radio equipment, warranty, and return terms before selecting a Black Friday 2026 listing.
FAQ
Traxxas Rustler vs ARRMA Granite: which is better for beginners?
The Traxxas Rustler 2WD XL-5 RTR is a straightforward beginner pick, with a brushed motor and 2WD layout. The ARRMA Granite 4X2 MEGA 550 RTR is another accessible 1/10-scale option. Choose the Rustler for its 35+ mph stated speed or the Granite for a 2S LiPo speed rating of 30+ mph.
Which is faster, the Rustler VXL or Granite 3S BLX?
The Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR has the higher stated top speed at 65+ mph with a 3S LiPo. The ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR is stated at 50+ mph on 3S. Actual speed depends on setup, battery, gearing, and driving conditions.
Is the ARRMA Granite GROM good for small spaces?
Yes. The ARRMA Granite GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 Brushed RTR is a compact 1/18-scale truck with 4WD. Its smaller footprint makes it easier to use in limited driving areas than the 1/10-scale Rustler and Granite trucks.
What is the difference between Rustler XL-5 and Rustler VXL?
The Traxxas Rustler XL-5 models use brushed power and are listed at 35+ mph, while the Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL RTR uses a brushless system and is stated at 65+ mph with 3S LiPo. The XL-5 suits approachable driving; VXL targets experienced speed-focused drivers.
What should I check before buying an RC truck on Black Friday 2026?
Check the full model name, drivetrain, motor, battery compatibility, and package contents. Confirm whether a battery and charger are included, then review return terms and parts support. Speed claims for models such as the ARRMA Granite 4X4 3S BLX RTR depend on the specified battery setup.