Best RC Snow Plows of 2021

Winter is here and your driveway is covered in snow. You could get up and grab that shovel. But what if there was another way? A remote-controlled way? Welcome to the world of RC Snowplows!

• Ready-to-run
• Kits
• Buying Advice

Want to learn how to get started in RC? Check out An Introduction to Remote Control Cars in 2020 by Matt Benfield.

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The Top-Rated RC Snow Plows (2020)

Model	Type	Scale	Age	Rating
Kyosho Blizzard FR	RTR	1:14	14+	4.1
Fisca RC Snow Plow	RTR	1:18	6+	4.3
Axial SCX10 II+ RC4WD Z-X0007 Blade Snow Plow Blade Kit	KIT	1:10	15+	4.2

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RTR RC Snow Plows

READY-TO-RUN!
Get straight to the action with these RTR models supplied with everything required to run straight out of the box!

1.Fisca RC Snow Plow

Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0

RTR | 1:18 scale | Ages 6+

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Radio System: Gamepad style, 2.4GHz 6-channel
Scale: 1:18
Motors: Dual motors
Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive
Batteries: Rechargeable, 6v 400 mAh
Running time: 15-25 minutes
Charging Time: 3-4 hours
Control Range: Up to 150ft
Recommended Age: 6+

• The Pros: Tight controls, Realistic molding
• The Cons: Stock tires lack grip

An entry-level offering from Fisca brings a 6-channel snowplow that for its price-point, is a fantastic performer. Styling is detailed and realistic without looking too toy-like and with a fully metal plow and cab, alongside high-quality ABS plastic on the bodywork, the Fisca RC Snow Plow can hold its own against some of the bigger players at a fraction of the cost. For a kid wanting a plow that will keep them busy, this is a great alternative to some of the much more expensive, hobby-grade models on this list.

Performance

Ground clearance is decent with its chunky rubber tires, and with the 4WD drive tank-style control system, on the spot turning is a breeze. Although the tires don’t have the greatest grip from its relatively low treads, one clever hack from a YouTuber involved drilling screws into the tires to offer some extra grip on icy surfaces. Just be sure not to run it over your hardwood floor after performing this mod!

Battery

Battery life is a respectable 30 minutes from its rechargeable, 6v 400 mAh battery. However, Fisca does sell an increased capacity 700mAh from their amazon store, found here. Which not only doubles the playtime but also serves as a swap in when charging the other battery. Ideally, we would have liked to have seen the 700mAh included, but for this price range, we can’t complain.

Control

Signal quality is great, able to handle distances of around 50m before having any loss of control thanks to its 2.4GHz radio. Which not only controls movement on the plow but can control the lights on the cab itself.

The Bad

While pushing power is limited to fairly light powdery snow and sand, it’s able to move through 3-4 inches of snow with little trouble. However, with thicker, wetter snow or sand, you may find the truck struggling. If you find yourself getting stuck or need to lift some snow out of the way, the plow can be remotely lifted and lowered with simple controls on the remote itself.

The Verdict

Overall, even as a cheaper option on the list, the Fisca RC Snow Plow really does punch well above its weight.

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KIT RC Snow Plows

BUILD-IT-YOURSELF
Not for the fainthearted, these build-it-yourself KITS not only require assembly, but additional parts such as a receiver, transmitter, batteries, servos, and even paint! If you want realism, look no further.

1.Kyosho Blizzard FR

Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0

RTR | 1:32 scale | Ages 14+

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Radio System: Gamepad style, 2.4GHz 4-channel
Scale: 1:32
Motors: Two independent side-by-side motors
Drivetrain: Continuous track
Batteries: Rechargeable, 7.2v 1800mAh Ni-MH
Running time: N/A
Charging Time: N/A
Control Range: Up to 150ft
Recommended Age: 6+

• The Pros: Waterproof electronics, Lightweight construction,
• The Cons: Plastic tracks can sometimes slip off (can be upgraded)

Includes:

• Pre-assembled chassis with control linkages complete
• Complete printed body
• 2.4GHz Syncro KT-431S R/C system
• KYOSHO SPEED HOUSE NiMH 2200 battery
• USB charger (Super plug type)
• Binding connector
• Tool (1.5 mm hex wrench)

Required To Operate:

• 4 x AA sized alkaline batteries for transmitter

The Kyosho Blizzard FR is a powerful little RC plow that, despite its small size and appearance, can more than impress with it’s pushing power! Based on a modified design of Kyosho’s earlier Blizzard SR, the FR adds some nice improvements without taking away too much from what made the original so popular.

Construction

With a tank-style control system with individual suspension on each of its wheels, it’s grippy rubber tracks can skim over uneven terrain with ease. Though it can comfortably travel over multiple surfaces, it’s really suited more for traversing over snow itself.

The main body is rather light, with most of the internals housed within the middle of the chassis. This positioning adds a nice balance, and its low center of gravity helps prevent tipping against higher mounds of snow. The top shell is constructed from a rather well detailed, albeit slightly flimsy plastic, styled with Kyosho’s own Blizzard branding. The Kyosho Blizzard FR also features new waterproof servos, which will at least hold up to any melting snow that finds its way over the top of the plow.

Out of the box assembly is reasonably quick, just taking a few minutes to attach the included plow to the arms at the front, attaching the battery, and securing with the included Velcro. The plow itself can be lifted and lowered remotely via the 4-channel, 2.4GHz remote, which is solidly built and features extra channels to allow for the addition of the optional rear tiller or other features in the future.

A nice touch on the remote is the textured grip on the end of the remote sticks, which, while slightly uncomfortable on bare skin, do allow for a good grip while wearing gloves in the snow. A smart touch to user-friendliness in its natural habitat outside. 

Battery

The Ni-MH, 7.2v 1800 mAh battery offers a solid amount of usage on a single charge, clocking in at around 1½ to 2 hours. While the plow can be upgraded with LiPo batteries, there is no automatic cut off support, requiring you to add your own Lipo Alarm to ensure safe operability. Charging the standard battery takes a reasonable 3-4 hours with the included USB charger.

The Bad

One downside to its relatively powerful 370 class motors is due to its rather light size. Despite it’s Twin electronic speed controls on each motor allowing fine control of turning and speed, and the inclusion of suspension on each wheel, we’ve found a tendency for the wheels to slip off of the plastic tracks when running too fast. While the plastic tracks leave a lot to be desired, these can be upgraded for an optional metal track design, which we would recommend over the stock tracks. 

Our main problems with the Kyosho come down to its rather disappointing build quality. Plastic servo arms for the plow don’t offer much in the way of assurance that it will be able to handle much in the way of weight on the plow, and with our testing, it’s best suited to light, powdery snow and not much more.

The Verdict

At this price range, we would have expected better overall build quality. But if you’re looking for a ready to run plow with little effort, the Kyosho Blizzard FR is the one for you.

Compatible Accessories

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2.Axial SCX10 II + Hot Racing SCX1213P08 Snow Plow Kit

Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0

KIT | 1:10 scale | Ages 15+

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Radio System: Steer wheel style, 2.4GHz Tactic TTX300 3-channel SLT radio
Scale: 1:10
Motors: 35T brushed motor
Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive
Batteries: Rechargeable, 7.2v 1800mAh Ni-MH
Running time: N/A
Charging Time: N/A
Control Range: Up to 100ft
Recommended Age: 15+

• The Pros: Endlessly customizable, Superb build quality, Doubles as an excellent rock crawler, Massive ground clearance
• The Cons: Short plow, Requires setup and extra parts

Includes:

• Motor: 35T brushed motor
• Radio: Tactic TTX300 3-channel SLT radio
• Servos: Tactic TSX45 Servo. Torque: 6.0V 151 oz-in, 4.8V 143 oz-in
• ESC: AE-5, forward/reverse, drag brake, 3S LiPo compatible, waterproof

Requires:

• Battery: 2S or 3S LiPo pack, or NiMH pack (batteries not included)
• Battery Charger: Compatible with selected battery

Our final pick is more of a customized project than an off-the-shelf product. The foundation of which is the Axial SCX10 II. An enthusiast-grade 4×4 Rock Crawler. A hobby that involves slow-speed, careful and precise driving, and high torque generated through large gear reductions in the vehicle’s drivetrain. Rock crawlers often drive up, down and across obstacles that would appear impassable. Pushing terrain to the limits, taking on steep rocks, logs, water crossings, and more.

Built for low-end torque, speed is not the name of the game. Rock Crawlers, and the SCX10 II, in particular, boast a range of engineering highlights such as locking differentials, lowered gearing, long-travel shock absorbers, and taller off-road tires to name a few.

Before the SCX10, hobbyists had to “scratch build” a rig, which was difficult, expensive and required a great deal of technical skill. Axial developed the first consumer kit, taking away the technical challenges and enabling the hobbyist to focus their attention on personalization and visual customization.

What’s Changed?

The SCX10 II improves upon this legacy with a new higher pinion gear design, giving massive ground clearance and offering a range of improvements such as no bump steering when going over obstacles, keeping your driving line smooth no matter what the terrain. All metal gears in the engine ensure durability when getting the most of the power it can push out. Driveshaft angles have been improved for stability and durability. Realistic quad linking suspension that mimics a real car, while also offering benefits to wheel stability. New waterproof receiver and ESC boxes are also there to keep everything working when running in mud, water, or snow!

We could go on listing the advances that Axial has gone to push the design of this Rock Crawler, but we haven’t even begun to speak about the pièce de résistance that pushes this truck from a top of the range Rock Crawler to a snowplow monster.

Turning the SCX10 II Into a Snow Plow

To turn this Rock Crawler into a snowplow monster, you will need the following: Hot Racing SCX1213P08 Snow Plow Kit & high torque metal gear servo.

Hot Racing SCX1213P08 Snow Plow Kit

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To learn more about the Hot Racing SCX1213P08 Snow Plow Kit check out the Hot Racing website.

ANNIMOS DS3218MG 20KG High Torque Full Metal Gear Waterproof Digital Servo

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Construction

The Plow kit is relatively straight forward to assemble, mounting to the front of the chassis of the SCX10 II. Building the CNC’d aluminum frame which supports the included shock mounts, and holds the actual mounting sockets for the plow itself takes no time at all, and mounting a high torque servo in the frame, allows for movement of the plow up and down via the third channel on the controller.

Thanks to the increased drive height and raised suspension, you’ll find the completed kit can make light work of several inches of heavy snow. However, you may find that lowering the drive height of the SCX10 II, with one of its optional wheelbase link kits from its stock 12.3” to 11.4”, may give you a better pushing angle. Though the chassis’ forward weight bias does help to reduce this problem, this avoids having to dig down into the ground, while also stopping the wheels’ suspension from lifting the plow above the snow line. This paired with the forward pressure from the sprung suspension allows a smooth plow every time.

Steering is a breeze with its 45-degree wheel angle giving plenty of control, and with the stability of Axial’s superb suspension, you’ll get a razor straight edge in your snow canvas.

The Verdict

The Axial SCX10 II paired with the Hot Racing SCX1213P08 Snow Plow Kit is by no means the cheapest build, and will easily run several hundred dollars, and some investment in time to build everything. But if you’re looking for a serious snow shifter that cuts no corners, that also doubles up as an incredible Rock Crawler for the summer? Then this bundle pushes aside the competition. 

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RC Snow Plow Buying Advice

• Expandability
• Turning style – Pivoting wheels vs Tank-style
• RTR vs Kits
• 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 our roundup of 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

Turning style – Pivoting wheels vs Tank-style

Steering control will take a number of forms depending on the type of truck and its drivetrain.

Tank-style – Vehicles using tracks or fixed wheels will use a tank-style control system, assigning both sides of the truck’s drivetrain to a stick on the control pad. This allows for much tighter turns and more flexible control, just like the real thing.

Pivoting wheels – Vehicles with wheels that pivot will use relative controls, where one stick will control throttle and reverse, and another will be dedicated to turning the front wheels left and right.

RTR vs Kits

A ready-to-run (RTR) model comes fully assembled out of the box and includes almost everything required to run. The only items that may be required are compatible batteries and chargers.

A Kit model comes supplied in parts and requires assembly. They are aimed at hobbyists who enjoy the process of building their own models and selecting their own parts. These models are usually missing items such as motors, servos, radios, and batteries.

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.