An indispensable piece of equipment in manufacturing and warehousing, Forklifts are the backbone of the construction world. Powered by hydraulics and with load capacities between one and five tons; these machines are one of the most powerful vehicles in the building industry. So it’s no wonder then that the experience of wielding your own has been made possible with fully functional RC scale models, allowing you to experience the finesse of controlling a Forklift at home, without the worry of a workplace accident!
- Our Top Pick: Carson Model Sport Linde H40D
- The Big One: Top Race Jumbo TR-216
- Budget Pick: WolVol 6-Channel Electric Remote Control Forklift
- Build-it Yourself: Think Gizmos Ingenious Machines Remote Control Robot Building Kit
- Hobby-Grade: Lesu RD-A0002 Hydraulic Forklift
- Buying Advice
Looking for more RC Construction action? Check out Best RC Construction Equipment (2020 Roundup)
The Top-Rated RC Forklifts (2020)
| Editor’s Pick | Model | Type | Scale | Age | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our Top Pick | Carson Model Sport Linde H40D | Ready-to-run | 1:14 | 14+ | N/A |
| The Big One | Top Race Jumbo TR-216 | Ready-to-run | 1:10 | 8+ | 4.2 |
| Budget Pick | WolVol 6-Channel Electric Remote Control Forklift | Ready-to-run | 1:16 | 3+ | 4.2 |
Our Top Pick: Carson Model Sport Linde H40D
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
RTR | 1:14 scale | Ages 14+
Radio System: Gamepad style, 2.4GHz 6-channel
Scale: 1:16
Lifting Capacity: 0.8 lbs
Running Time: up to 3 hours
Charging Time: N/A
Batteries: 13 x AA’s
Control Range: Up to 100ft
Recommended Age: 14+
- The Pros: Realistic tilting of the mast angle, based on a real Linde H40D, Sound mute toggle
- The Cons: Requires counterbalance weights to be added for best performance, no rechargeable battery as standard
The Carson Model Sport Linde H40D RC forklift is an all in one package that at 1:14 scale, is by no means big, but packs all the features you’d wish for in a remote control forklift.
Construction
Based on a real Linde H40D Forklift, the build quality and model details are a strong point. With a realistic design, an actual driver in the cabin, and remote control operation for the lights and horn sounds, easily accessible with a switch on the large and comfortable 2.4GHz remote. The rest of the sounds can also be muted from the underside of the machine to turn everything off for silent operation if desired.
Control
Speed is merely adequate, as to be expected from a scale forklift, but the handling is where this model shines due to its small size and realistic rear-wheel steering. Clearance is ideal for managing rougher terrain like gravel, but it will struggle in the grass or deeper sand due to its small wheel diameter.
The other great feature is the realistic remote manipulation of the mast angle, allowing for easy lifting and carrying of the included pallets and crates. While the construction is plastic, it’s able to lift loads of just under 1 lb, more than enough for manipulating the included props.
With a 100ft range from the 2.4GHz controller and no issues with connectivity, you won’t have to worry about dropouts or lagging controls.
The Bad
While the weight is low, the unfortunate problem comes in weight distribution. There is no real counterbalance on the rear of the machine, and the front forks without load don’t actually have enough weight to lower down entirely without lightly pressing down with your finger. Some RC wheel weights stuck to the lower rear of the forklift, and a few on the loading assembly help to alleviate this problem, although we would have liked to have seen these included in the box.
Our other gripe is the use of 5xAA’s for the truck and 8xAA’s for the controller. The inclusion of the batteries in the box is welcome, although we would have loved to have seen at least some kind of rechargeable option included. However, with some slight modification, a 7.4v Lipo battery can be fitted.
Alternatively, we would definitely recommend picking up a set of rechargeable AA batteries to improve usability.
The Verdict
While it’s not the most exceptional performer in terms of sheer lifting capacity, for the level of control on offer, the absolute ease of driving and realistic loading of items with remote manipulation of the mast angle, more than makes up for its shortfalls in power.
If you want to impress with your forklift finesse, the Carson Model Sport Linde H40D is a great pickup that makes it’s price tag a bit more forgivable.
The Big One: Top Race Jumbo TR-216
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
RTR | 1:10 scale | Ages 8+
Radio System: Gamepad style, 2.4GHz 8-channel
Scale: 1:10
Lifting Capacity: 6 lbs
Running Time: 25 minutes
Charging Time: 90 minutes
Batteries: Rechargeable, 7.2v 400mAh
Control Range: Up to 100ft
Recommended Age: 8+
- The Pros: Supplied with hook & fork, Impressive 6 lbs lifting weight, Can pull 26 lbs on the slab attachment accessory, Huge size! Tiltable mast
- The Cons: Plastic parts at key stress points, Wide turning angle, Poor steering under heavy load
Top Race’s “Jumbo” TR-216 forklift is a 1/10 scale beast of a machine, part of Top Race’s 200 series, which includes the TR-211 & TR-211M Excavators, the TR-213 Bulldozer, the TR-214 Crane, and the TR-212 Dump Truck.
Coming in at 13” tall, and with the forks able to be lifted to 15”, nothing will lift a faux pallet higher! and a mostly metal construction (More on that later), there’s a fair heft to be had. Weighing in around 10 lbs, it’s impressively sized even against other Top Race models, and with a detailed realistic look that looks great even up close.
Control
With 8-channels of control from the 2.4GHz remote, all the features you would expect at this price point are present — everything from rear-wheel steering, fully functional forks, and mute toggles for the sounds. Along with a demo reel, there are plenty of features to show off.
Signal strength is great from the 2.4GHz controller, with a max range of about 100ft and no issues with losing connection.
The included sounds are the standard for Top Race models, and as such, feel a little more out of place with it being a forklift as opposed to other, heavier construction equipment. Although, it’s worth noting that just like on many Top Race models, it can be muted.
Some missing features would have been welcome, such as remote-controlled adjustment of the mast angle – There is still a manual tilting option for adjusting the angle, but not by much. The forks can also be swapped out for an included hook instead of winching or lifting things supported by ropes.
The only real functional downside is the turning radius. Giving nothing like the on-the-spot turning you would expect from a forklift. This is made even more sluggish with the addition of any loaded weight.
The TR-216 It’s not the most nimble machine on the list, but it’s able to make it’s way across most surfaces with enough ease that you’re not wrestling with clearance. But for something of this unmatched scale, you’re really buying it for it’s imposing size than it’s track performance.
Construction
Where it does however shine is in it’s pulling weight. Along with the optional Top Race TR-217 Carrier Slab Attachment or other similarly compatible slabs, the TR-216 can hitch up with the rear mounting hook, letting it’s powerful motors give a pulling strength of 26 lbs, able to transport other Top Race trucks with ease.
While the loading ramps are less suited to drive up and are really best to just lift your load on manually. It may be possible to drive another model up, especially something with a bit more vertical mobility like the Top Race TR-211 Excavator, but we’d recommend a makeshift chock to stop it moving as you do.
The Bad
Despite its size, and adequate lifting performance up to about 6 lbs, we wouldn’t recommend going too much over this limit, owing to the only real let-down of the entire machine.
While the forks are metal, the mounting plate to the mast is plastic. This weakness leaves open a pretty dramatic point of failure, so leaving your loads under the 6 lbs limit is the safest way to prevent any early misfortune.
Battery
All this power comes from the 6cell, 7.2v 400mAh Na-CD battery. A small let down when considering the size of this machine. However, while Top Race does sell additional battery packs, a higher capacity would have helped give more than it’s 25 minute run-time at full workload, after a 90-minute charge from the included USB charger.
The Verdict
A few shortfalls leave this just shy of being our top pick, but if you want big, there’s no better option!
Compatible Accessories
Budget Pick:WolVol 6-Channel Electric Remote Control Forklift
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
RTR | 1:16 scale | Ages 3+
Radio System: Gamepad style, 27MHz 6-channel
Scale: 1:16
Lifting Capacity: 1 lb
Running Time: 30-40 minutes
Charging Time: N/A
Batteries: Rechargeable, 4.8v 700mAh
Control Range: Up to 100ft
Recommended Age: 3+
- The Pros: Handles various surfaces with ease, Sturdy build quality
- The Cons: Tilted forks make loading difficult
While not offering the size or build quality of the more expensive models on this list. The WolVol RC Forklift packs together a great all-around package for those looking for an entry-level lifter.
Construction
Constructed from heavy-duty ABS plastic, there’s little metal to be seen compared to some of the alternative models on this list, but the design is impressively detailed in the cabin area. The stickers are where the look falls short, although it’ll still impress any child that gets their hands on it. Real working lights on the front also give a touch of character when in use.
Control
The controller, with 6-channels of operation, allows tight turns, forward and reverse, and fork controls to move up them and down. While comfortable and easy to operate, it does, unfortunately, rely on a 27MHz connection, leaving performance to rely on your environment. In optimal conditions, the response is quick enough to serve but can be a bit spotty at further distances or with interference nearby, especially from mobile phones. However, when it’s working correctly, it offers tight turns and reasonable speed.
Movement is smooth on a range of surfaces, from hard floors to even higher pile carpets. Though the included pallet and oil drum are great to get started with, the forks are angled slightly upwards, meaning it’s somewhat tricky to sometimes hook the Forks inside the pallet on the ground. You can remedy this with a quick DIY fix by gluing some popsicle sticks to the bottom of the pallet. Alternatively, you may find some other pallets sold separately that will fit easier on the forks.
Battery
Battery life is a reasonable 30-40 minutes on a full charge with the 4.8v, 700mAh battery and included USB charger, so there’s nothing to stop you from getting straight to the action!
The Bad
While the lifting weight is nothing spectacular, coming in around 1 lb, it’s really only suitable for small plastic props without putting a strain on its plastic lifting mechanisms.
The Verdict
As a budget pick, the WolVol RC Forklift is an affordable offering with reasonable performance and great for younger kids.
Build-it Yourself:Think Gizmos Ingenious Machines Remote Control Robot Building Kit
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
KIT | Ages 6+
Radio System: Gamepad style, IR 8-channel
Scale: N/A
Lifting Capacity: N/A
Running Time: N/A
Charging Time: N/A
Batteries: 4xAAA’S and 2xAA’s (included)
Control Range: N/A
Recommended Age: 6+
- The Pros: Expandable with other Think Gizmos kits, Great STEM learning tool
- The Cons: Finished builds lack strength, Instructions sometimes frustrating
As always, we like to include an option for those looking for something a little outside the box, and the Think Gizmos’ kit is precisely the construction toy for the more construction minded!
This 240-piece modular set allows you to build several different vehicles, with included designs for a crane, forklift, dump truck and bulldozer. But of course, you are only limited by your imagination. These are just the start of the things you can build.
Control
The remote control includes different selectable channels, allowing for various functions all controllable independently from each other. You can even add a total of 8 motors giving expandable options like 4WD driving controls, extra functionality, or allowing multiple kits to run alongside each other with no interference. Surprisingly strong motors included provide a lot of speed, grip and pulling strength, allowing for some ingenious creations!
Construction & Build
While the pieces have a similarity to Lego Technic, these are unfortunately incompatible. However, Think Gizmos do sell other kits that can be combined to expand the limits of your building opportunities. As far as the difficulty of the builds goes. The Construction Kit is one of the more complicated of the range, with instructions and diagrams sometimes taking up multiple steps in single images or assuming steps entirely. But paying close attention to all the holes and labels and you’ll soon find yourself tackling the builds.
Though aimed for kids ages 6+, some steps might be handled best with adult supervision to help with some of the more obtuse and fiddly steps.
While the vehicles themselves may not be suited for performing their proposed tasks like other models on this list, they do a great job at looking and feeling the part in motion. They also provide a great educational tool to help to improve hand-eye coordination, problem-solving, dexterity, and fine motor skills.
The construction quality once completed, could be improved, with some pieces feeling uncomfortably brittle during assembly. However, with some careful applications of force, everything was secured enough.
The Verdict
While you won’t see these out in the yard with the other picks on this list, what you will find is a toy that will keep children entertained for hours as they build, take apart and drive around their very own creations.
Hobby-Grade (Hydraulic):Lesu RD-A0002 Hydraulic Forklift
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
KIT | 1:14 scale | Ages 16+
Radio System: N/A
Scale: 1:14
Lifting Capacity: N/A
Running Time: N/A
Charging Time: N/A
Batteries: N/A
Control Range: N/A
Recommended Age: 16+
- The Pros: Realistic tilting of the mast angle, Hobby-grade construction, Real working hydraulics
- The Cons: Experience hobbyist only
Includes:
- 1/14 Forklift Kits Set
- ESC
- Servo
- Motor
- Trumpet
- Warning Light
Requires:
- Light System
- Sound System
- Battery
- RC Controller and Receiver
While in short supply due to their small production numbers and their high demand amongst the enthusiast RC crowd, the Lesu RD-A0002 is an astounding piece of RC engineering. Forget electronic servos, this thing uses a real 2-valve hydraulic system and is the first “affordable” Hydraulic Forklift to come on the market.
The Lesu RD-A0002 retails for around $1000 USD depending on where you find them. While that may seem expensive, and it is, you will be amazed at the level of detail and engineering that’s gone into this model.
These hydraulically powered forklifts replace the standard plastic gearing and motors for pumps and servo-controlled valves, which manage the lifting and tilting of the mast and forks. These rugged builds are more than capable of lifting much heavier weights with none of the stress of breaking parts.
While the Lesu RD-A0002 is supplied as a kit and can be complicated, fiddly, and sometimes guided by incorrect and obtuse instructions, the finished project is one that’ll be sure to impress anyone that lays their eyes upon it.
If you’re looking for your first hydraulic RC model, the Lesu RD-A0002 is it. Providing you can get hold of one!
For more information about LESU products visit their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/LesuRcChina/
To learn more about the Lesu RD-A0002, watch the build video from RCSparks Studio below.
RC Forklift Buying Advice
- Expandability
- Accessories
- Lifting Weight
- Volume
- Size & Scale
- Run time & Batteries
- Remote Control Types
- Connectivity
Expandability
Looking to expand your RC collection? check out our Curated Buyers Guides, or check out all the Best RC Construction Models From 2020.
- All the Best RC Construction Models of 2021
- Best RC Forklifts of 2021
- Best RC Tractors of 2021
- Best RC Dump Trucks of 2021
- Best RC Snow Plows of 2021
- Best RC Excavators of 2021
- Best RC Cranes of 2021
- Best RC Bulldozers of 2021
Accessories
While most RC Forklifts come with the basics to get going, you may find some models including accessories ranging from customizable attachments and tools to props.
Bruder Toys offer a fantastic range of pallets, faux crates, and containers to add or expand any sets you have. These offer a safe way to test your limits, without pushing the limits of the forklift itself and risking damage.
Lifting Weight
Another thing to consider is the amount you plan to lift with your forklift, with some models offering a far greater lifting capacity than others, either due to better materials, smarter weight distribution, stronger motors, or just better build quality in general.
You may also want to consider the type of loads you wish to carry, be it with the forks or to a hook attachment if it is available.
Volume
Depending on if your kids will be playing in your vicinity, and how much noise you can tolerate, one thing to consider is the option of a mute button to allow your kids to play while also keeping yourself sane. While this might not be a problem if your child plays with their toys in their own room. If they are instead frequently playing in areas with other people, having a mute switch can be a lifesaver!
Size/ Scale
An easily-missed thing to think about is just how large the model itself is. With some models being pocket-sized 1/43 scale little nippers, that may pose a choking hazard for younger children, to obnoxiously large 1/8 scale models, where finding a place to store it may be an issue.
Some models might also prove unwieldy for younger children and might be a bit more painful when someone accidentally drives it into your ankle!
Run time & Batteries
Batteries. Nobody likes to run on empty, which is why knowing what powers your vehicle is important if you like long uninterrupted play sessions.
Many cheaper remote control models will use simple AA batteries that can be replaced easily. However, some may include rechargeable batteries, either being able to charge by USB or by using a proprietary charger.
Some smaller micro models may also include a charging function from the remote itself. Whereas many larger models can also include removable battery packs that can be inserted into an external charger for faster, more reliable charging times.
There may also be times where the battery is of a much more obscure, even unique type, which may require sourcing replacements directly from the manufacturer.
The main three forms of rechargeable batteries:
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) offering powerful output and capacity but can be more volatile and the most expensive.
Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd) is the middle of the road and most common in mid-range price points, offering a good balance between price and performance.
Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) is an older form of battery that still sees some use in lower-end models but has the lowest capacity.
When comparing capacity, look for the rated milliampere-hour (mAh) of the battery. A higher mAh will give longer run times with a greater charge capacity.
Remote Control Types
Dual Stick
The most common remotes you will find come in 2 distinct styles. One is the more traditional “Dual stick” type transmitter, using a more familiar gamepad style layout, with steering and acceleration placed on individual sticks, with any extra functions placed around these.
Gun Style
The alternative is the more recent “Gun” style transmitter. With a trigger for acceleration and braking, and a steering wheel style dial for turning left and right.
App Control
Most camera-enabled RC Cars can be controlled using an included remote. However, you may find some include extra options when paired with a companion smartphone app.
Some may allow for things like Gyroscopic or Touch controlled steering via the app, which may or may not be more responsive than using the included remote.
Connectivity
Connectivity is an important factor to consider depending on your ideal use scenario.
Most radio-controlled models today tend to use 2.4GHz connections, which are much more user-friendly, enable more devices to be used simultaneously and are less prone to interference.
Another connection type that is becoming more common is Bluetooth remote control models, which can be controlled using a smartphone via an app often included with the car itself.
However, for camera-enabled cars, most will use an Ad-Hoc Connection to your device using WiFi. In some cases (See the SunFounder Pi enabled car) models can also be controlled via web servers for even greater range limited only by the connection to the car itself.
On limited occasions, you may find Infrared (IR) remotes being used, which can be limited by factors such as distance and line of sight.
In rare instances, controls may also be tethered to the device physically with a cable.
The control range is dependent on a lot of factors, ranging from the connection type, distance, obstructing objects or walls, and the strength of the antenna in your device or smartphone.
Channels
In most cases when talking about RC remote channels, most are referring to the number of channels you can assign each car and remote to. This is to prevent signals from one remote affecting an unintended car.
However within the context of RC products such as Forklifts, and other such vehicles that are doing more than just turning and steering, the term “Channels” is referring to the individual signals, and therefore the individual commands that the transmitter can send and receive.
For example, an RC Car that only turns and accelerates, will typically only have 2-channels. One for each function. With a Forklift that has many functions that require additional motors, such as adjusting the mast, these will all be assigned a different radio frequency channel. This allows it to control that function independently without affecting other parts of the excavator.
With this in mind, the number of “Channels”, is referring to the number of individual controls available to the user.
Frequency Numbers
The second thing to consider is the frequency numbers. If devices all use the same frequency, multiple vehicles will all receive the same signal from a single remote. This makes it impossible for multiple children to use different models at the same time.
Some models may have their radios linked to a specific vehicle itself, while others will have selectable channels on both the remote control and the model itself to allow users to pick and choose who controls which vehicle.
Some models may have their radios linked to a specific vehicle itself, while others will have selectable channels on both the remote control and the model itself to allow users to pick and choose who controls which vehicle.
MHz Crystal radios Vs 2.4GHz
A much more obsolete and now rarely seen with the advent of 2.4GHz transmitters are FM Crystal synced transmitters, which work by using the oscillating signal from a tiny quartz crystal.
These work by sending specific frequencies to a receiver set to listen for a signal from the same frequency. They are however prone to all sorts of interference, are limited in the number of available channels due to a set range within government-regulated standards, and require physically modifying the hardware to change signals between devices.
2.4GHz based devices are not limited by these setbacks as they are encoded to listen specifically for it’s set receiver and transmitter when paired together, Thus have widely overtaken the market for modern devices.
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