Nitro engines are considered superior in terms of power and sound. A nitro engine monster truck with remote control is really fast and really loud. However, nitro engine RC vehicles require more maintenance and money than electric engine RC vehicles. This makes them the less suitable option for beginners. Further, nitro engines emit harmful gases so you shouldn't be using a nitro RC vehicle in a poorly-ventilated area. But if you want to learn how to tinker with the inner workings of RC vehicles, then a nitro engine RC vehicle is definitely your best choice.
Electric engine RC vehicles are geared towards beginners. All you have to do when you get an electric RC vehicle is put in the batteries, flip the on switch and you're good to go. The batterie are long-lasting and recharge quickly. If you want a reliable RC vehicle that you won't have to spend a lot of time tinkering with, this is the way to go. Electric engine RC vehicles can be fitted either with a brushed or brushless motor. Brushed motors are open to the environment, which helps them cool faster, but it also exposes them to debris and dirt. Brushless motors, on the other hand, are more expensive, but they're also more powerful and more durable, with their only downside being potential overheating.
Electric-powered RC vehicles can use two types of batteries - Li-Po and Ni-Mh. Ni-Mh batteries are easier to use, making them more suitable for beginners. However, they aren't as powerful. Li-Po, although more powerful, are also more expensive. Some batteries last only 15 minutes, whereas others last significantly longer. It's a good idea to have an extra pack of batteries you can use while you recharge the other pack.
But regardless of whether you go for an electric or nitro engine RC vehicle, there are a few other important things you'll have to consider. For instance, you'll have to decide whether you want a 2WD or 4WD model. 2WD models are more affordable, more durable and easier to maintain, as they don't feature as many parts. However, they aren't as fast, aggressive and grippy as 4WD. 2WD models are more difficult to maneuver, so they aren't as beginner-friendly. But once you master them, it can be very rewarding.
Furthermore, consider the type of terrain you'll be driving over for the most part. If you're going to be traversing smooth surfaces or even pavements, you should consider an RC car. If you're going to be traversing sand, gravel, rocky trails or muddy areas, then an RC monster truck is the ideal choice. RC monster trucks are also built to be more durable, which is important when you're riding over rough terrain.
Some of the best brands that manufacture RC vehicles are Traxxas, Axial and Redcat. Traxxas is based in Texas, and they've been in the industry for over 35 years. They have a wide range of quality models, including RC cars, buggies, truggies, monster trucks, stadium trucks, etc. Redcat Racing is a fairly new brand, and they've taken the market by storm. They feature a broad range of models that are powerful and come as ready-to-run kits. Axial manufactures high-quality RC vehicles and accessories for beginners and pros that focus on style, durability and performance. You should expect to pay more for an Axial RC vehicle, but you should also expect to get years of use out of it with minimum hassle.