As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
- Best overall: Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck
- Best budget: ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck
- Best premium: ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck
- Best for small spaces: ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck
- Traxxas Slash models suit shoppers who want a short-course truck with a low, wide stance and track-inspired handling.
- ARRMA GRANITE models suit shoppers who want monster-truck tires, high ground clearance and backyard bashing.
- The Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s balances four-wheel drive with brushless power for an all-around pick.
- The ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 is the compact choice at 1/18 scale.
- Compare drive layout, power system and included battery or charger before choosing a Black Friday 2026 RC truck.
Traxxas Slash vs ARRMA GRANITE Black Friday 2026 comes down to two distinct RC-truck styles: short-course control or monster-truck clearance. The Traxxas Slash has a wide, low body designed around short-course racing. The ARRMA GRANITE sits higher, with large tires built for backyard runs and rougher ground. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify the strongest picks across both families.
The best fit depends on where you drive, how much power you want to manage and whether you prefer two-wheel or four-wheel drive. The Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s is our best overall balance, while the ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX is the premium power pick. Each truck below has a clear use case, core specs and a direct answer to a common shopper question.
How We Picked
- Compared drive layout, scale and power system so shoppers can match each truck to the terrain and handling they want.
- Reviewed manufacturer specifications, owner feedback and common setup considerations, including battery and charger needs.
- Included brushed and brushless choices to cover beginners, casual drivers and shoppers seeking higher performance.
- Selected both short-course and monster-truck designs, plus a compact 1/18-scale option for smaller spaces.
- Prioritized clear use cases and practical trade-offs over vague claims about speed or value.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Drive | Scale | Power system |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck | New drivers and short-course styling | 2WD | 1/10 | XL-5 brushed |
| Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck | All-around short-course driving | 4WD | 1/10 | BL-2s brushless |
| Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck | Experienced short-course drivers | 4WD | 1/10 | VXL brushless; up to 3S |
| ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck | New monster-truck drivers | 2WD | 1/10 | Brushed MEGA |
| ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck | Casual 4WD backyard runs | 4WD | 1/10 | Brushed MEGA |
| ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck | Brushless monster-truck bashing | 4WD | 1/10 | 3S BLX brushless |
| ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck | Small spaces and compact storage | 4WD | 1/18 | Brushed MEGA |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck
The Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is the best entry-level short-course pick for new drivers, with a 1/10-scale chassis and a brushed XL-5 power system.
Best for: New drivers who want a classic short-course truck.
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drive
- 2WD
- Power system
- XL-5 brushed ESC
- Motor
- 12T 550 brushed
- Familiar short-course design
- Simple brushed setup
- Large aftermarket and owner community
- Two-wheel drive has less traction than 4WD on loose ground.
- Battery and charger are generally sold separately.
Is the Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is a sensible first RC truck for drivers who want a manageable brushed setup and short-course styling. The Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck's 2WD layout rewards smooth throttle control.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2 · Top pick
Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck
The Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is the best all-around short-course pick for drivers who want four-wheel traction, with a 2S brushless power system.
Best for: Drivers seeking 4WD and brushless power.
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drive
- 4WD
- Power system
- BL-2s brushless
- Battery system
- 2S LiPo compatible
- Four-wheel drive adds traction
- Brushless system offers room to grow
- Short-course body protects the truck
- A compatible battery and charger add setup steps.
Is the Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is a strong choice for drivers who want a short-course shape with 4WD traction. The 2S brushless system suits regular recreational driving without stepping up to a 3S setup.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck
The Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is the best premium short-course pick for experienced drivers, with a VXL brushless system that supports 3S LiPo power.
Best for: Experienced drivers who want a high-output Slash.
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drive
- 4WD
- Power system
- VXL brushless
- Battery system
- Up to 3S LiPo
- Brushless performance platform
- Four-wheel drive
- Wide range of tuning and upgrade options
- Higher power calls for more driver control and careful setup.
Is the Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is a good premium pick for drivers comfortable managing a powerful brushless RC truck. The Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck's 4WD drivetrain and 3S-compatible system suit open areas and experienced users.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck
The ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck is the best budget-friendly monster-truck style pick for newer drivers, with a 1/10-scale chassis and brushed 550 motor.
Best for: New drivers who prefer a monster-truck stance.
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drive
- 2WD
- Power system
- Brushed MEGA
- Motor
- 550 brushed
- Tall stance and large monster-truck tires
- Brushed setup suits casual driving
- BOOST platform supports drivetrain upgrades
- 2WD offers less grip than the 4WD GRANITE models.
Is the ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck is a practical starter for shoppers drawn to high ground clearance and a brushed system. The 2WD layout keeps the setup straightforward, though loose surfaces call for measured throttle.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck
The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck is the best brushed 4WD monster-truck pick for casual backyard drivers, with a 1/10-scale chassis and 550 motor.
Best for: Backyard drivers who want 4WD without brushless power.
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drive
- 4WD
- Power system
- Brushed MEGA
- Motor
- 550 brushed
- Four-wheel drive helps on loose terrain
- Monster-truck clearance
- Brushed power suits relaxed sessions
- Brushed power is less suited to shoppers seeking a high-output brushless setup.
Is the ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck makes sense for casual drivers who want 4WD grip and a classic monster-truck shape. The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck's brushed 550 motor keeps the power system approachable for recreational runs.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck
The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck is the best high-power monster-truck pick for experienced bashers, with a brushless system compatible with 3S LiPo power.
Best for: Experienced drivers seeking brushless 4WD bashing.
- Scale
- 1/10
- Drive
- 4WD
- Power system
- 3S BLX brushless
- Battery system
- Up to 3S LiPo
- Brushless power system
- Four-wheel-drive traction
- High-clearance monster-truck format
- The higher-output setup benefits from a larger, open driving area.
Is the ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck is a strong match for experienced drivers who want a brushless basher with 4WD. The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck's 3S-compatible system offers a higher-power path than the MEGA brushed models.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck
The ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck is the best compact pick for drivers with limited space, with a 1/18-scale chassis and 4WD.
Best for: Small spaces, younger drivers and compact storage.
- Scale
- 1/18
- Drive
- 4WD
- Power system
- Brushed MEGA
- Motor
- 380 brushed
- Compact size is easy to store
- Four-wheel drive in a small platform
- Monster-truck body and tires
- Smaller scale is less suited to large, rough outdoor areas.
Is the ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck is a convenient choice for compact storage and smaller driving areas. The ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck's 1/18 scale and 4WD layout deliver monster-truck styling in a smaller package.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better for Black Friday 2026: Traxxas Slash or ARRMA GRANITE?
The Traxxas Slash and ARRMA GRANITE offer 2 distinct driving styles across 1/10-scale models: short-course handling and monster-truck clearance. The Slash’s wide, low body suits flatter tracks and open pavement, while the GRANITE’s tall stance and larger tires are a natural fit for backyard terrain.
Choose a Traxxas Slash if short-course looks, stable cornering and racing-inspired proportions matter most. Choose an ARRMA GRANITE if ground clearance, tire size and a truck built for casual bashing matter more. Both families include brushed and brushless options, so compare the individual power systems rather than choosing by body style alone. Best bet: decide where the truck will run, then select the drivetrain and power level that fit that surface.
Which Traxxas Slash or ARRMA GRANITE is best for beginners?
The Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 and ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 are 2 brushed 1/10-scale choices for shoppers starting with RC trucks. Brushed power gives new drivers a straightforward entry point, while each model’s body style makes the difference: short-course proportions for the Slash and monster-truck clearance for the GRANITE.
Drivers who expect to use grass or loose ground should consider a 4WD model, such as the Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s or ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550. Four driven wheels help put power down on uneven surfaces. Easy recommendation: match the truck to the surface first, then choose brushed power for a simple start or brushless power for a more performance-focused setup.
Are Traxxas Slash and ARRMA GRANITE trucks good for grass and rough ground?
The ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 and ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX are 2 high-clearance 1/10-scale options for grass and uneven ground. The GRANITE design prioritizes large tires and a lifted stance, helping the truck handle terrain that challenges a lower short-course body.
A 4WD Traxxas Slash, including the Slash 4X4 BL-2s, brings more traction than a 2WD Slash, but its short-course shape remains closer to the ground. Grass length, surface softness and battery condition all affect driving. For mixed backyard terrain, start with a 4WD model and use smooth throttle inputs; reserve 2WD models for flatter surfaces and drivers who enjoy more deliberate control.
What battery and charger should shoppers check before choosing?
The Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL and ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX support 3S LiPo power, while the Slash 4X4 BL-2s is built around a 2S brushless system. Battery type and connector compatibility matter, so verify the exact model’s included equipment and manufacturer guidance before adding a battery or charger to a gift list.
Ready-to-run describes the assembled vehicle and radio setup, not a promise that every package includes a battery and charger. Check the product listing for the exact bundle contents, then match the charger to the battery chemistry and cell count. A compatible battery, charger and safe charging routine are essential parts of the complete RC setup.
What should shoppers know about maintenance and repairs?
The Traxxas Slash and ARRMA GRANITE each need routine checks of 4 key areas: tires, suspension, drivetrain and fasteners. Grass, dust and small debris build up during driving, so clean the truck after a run and inspect moving parts before the next session.
Brushed models such as the ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 keep the power system approachable, while brushless models such as the Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL call for careful battery and drivetrain setup. Replacement parts and upgrades vary by model. Keep the exact model name and version handy when ordering components, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions for safe operation.
Buying Guide
Choose the right truck shape
The Traxxas Slash is a short-course truck, while the ARRMA GRANITE is a monster truck. Pick the Slash for its lower, wide racing-inspired stance; choose the GRANITE for higher ground clearance and large tires.
Match drive layout to the surface
A 2WD model such as the Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 suits flatter surfaces and drivers who value simple control. A 4WD model such as the ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550 offers added traction on loose or uneven ground.
Select brushed or brushless power
Brushed models suit casual driving and simpler setups. Brushless models, including the Traxxas Slash 4X4 BL-2s and ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX, suit shoppers seeking a higher-performance system.
Check battery and charger details
Confirm the battery chemistry, cell count, connector and charger requirements for the exact model. Package contents differ, so check whether a battery and charger are included before completing a Black Friday 2026 gift list.
Think about storage and driving space
The 1/18-scale ARRMA GRANITE GROM takes less storage space than a 1/10-scale truck. A compact model suits smaller areas, while full-size 1/10-scale Slash and GRANITE options suit larger outdoor driving spaces.
FAQ
Which is faster, Traxxas Slash or ARRMA GRANITE?
The brushless Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL and ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 3S BLX are the performance-focused picks in their families. Actual speed depends on battery, gearing, tires and setup. Compare the specific motor and ESC rather than assuming every Slash or GRANITE has the same pace.
Is the Traxxas Slash 2WD good for beginners?
Yes. The Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 1/10 Scale RTR Short-Course Truck is a beginner-friendly option for shoppers who want a brushed system and 2WD control. The model suits flatter ground best, and new drivers should use smooth throttle inputs while learning.
Which ARRMA GRANITE is best for beginners?
The ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST Mega 550 1/10 Scale RTR Monster Truck is a strong beginner option for shoppers who prefer a brushed 2WD model. Drivers who expect more loose or uneven ground can consider the brushed ARRMA GRANITE 4X4 MEGA 550.
Is the ARRMA GRANITE GROM good for indoor driving?
The ARRMA GRANITE GROM 4X4 MEGA 380 1/18 Scale RTR Monster Truck is the compact pick for small driving areas. Indoor use still depends on available space and surface conditions. Clear fragile objects, check local rules and drive at a controlled speed around people and pets.
Do Traxxas Slash and ARRMA GRANITE trucks include a battery and charger?
Package contents vary by exact model and seller bundle. Check the listing for the Traxxas Slash or ARRMA GRANITE version you plan to buy, including battery, charger, radio and connector details. Match any separate battery and charger to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Should I buy a 2WD or 4WD RC truck?
Choose 2WD for a simpler setup and flatter surfaces; choose 4WD for more traction on loose or uneven ground. The Traxxas Slash 2WD XL-5 and ARRMA GRANITE 4X2 BOOST are 2WD examples, while both brands offer 4WD alternatives.