Best Electric Slot Car Race Track
Slot car racing is an exciting, interactive hobby for automobile fans and anyone who likes speed and competition. Slot cars make a great alternative to video games because they tap into similar skill sets—hand-eye coordination, risk-reward thinking, competition, manual dexterity—yet remain physical, i.e. hands-on, three-dimensional and face-to-face.
We carry two high quality slot car brands: Carrera, which tends to appeal to younger racers, and Scalextric Sport, which attracts an older audience and enthusiasts. In other words, Carrera is a little bit “toy,” while Scalextric is much more “hobby.” In this post, I’ll explain some of the features of each brand to help you make a better purchase.
Digital vs. analog
WIHA - WIH75313 -.050x28MM SYSTEM 4 BIT (slot car) Price: $2.98. JKP - JKO8B2BU13 JKP2081728 - RTR Wide Indy Car with Custom painted #8 NTT Data body. Cheetah 21 Indy chassis, Hawk 7 motor, 3/32 axle and 64 pitch gears (slot car) JKP - JKO8B2BU13 JKP2081728 - RTR Wide Indy Car with Custom painted #8 NTT. Best Slot Car Race Track. This simple entry in the best slot car track to buy list builds skill like no other. The track has a few turns and weaves but no frills. The controllers are where the real dynamic action lies. The controllers are digital and come with power selector for on the fly adjustments.
Both Carrera and Scalextric offer analog and digital formats. With an analog set—the sort that has been around for half a century—you can only race as many cars as you have lanes. Your controller adjusts the current sent to the track lane, which speeds up and slows down the car in that particular lane. With a digital setup, the controller is programmed to control the car itself. Digital sets have crossover sections that allow you to switch from lane to lane for passing, blocking, and overtaking. These tracks also support more cars, so that three or four (with some sets, up to six) people can race at the same time. I’ll come back to that a little later.
3 Questions to Help Decide What's Right for You
There are a few things to consider up front if you’re looking at a slot car set:
How old are your racers? I do not recommend slot-car racing for very young children. Ideally, a child should be eight or older, and certainly no younger than six or seven. Eight might even be pushing it for the more technical demands of an advanced Scalextric set.
You need a good deal of skill and finesse to navigate the track, especially around turns, and practice is absolutely necessary. You can’t simply haul back on the throttle and expect the cars to zoom around flawlessly. They will hop out of the slot and skitter away. Of course, that’s part of the fun. If there were no skill involved, you would get bored pretty quickly. For the most part, a child younger than 8 simply lacks the dexterity and coordination to grasp the finer points of adjusting speed to stay on track, and may not have the patience to put in the necessary practice.
Where will you put your track? The three-dimensional, hands-on, physicality of slot racing is great, but this does mean that you need space to dedicate to your layout. Even the smallest tracks are several feet across. You don’t want it in the middle of the living room where it will get stepped over—or on!—bumped, full of cookie crumbs and pet hair. The track pieces are generally pretty flexible and robust, and are designed to withstand a trodding or two, but they aren’t indestructible.
How often will you be racing? It's not a good idea to set up the track, race a few laps, and then pack it away again. The tracks are designed to be assembled and disassembled without too much effort, but only infrequently. Pulling track pieces apart is usually a little tougher than clipping them together, and can require a good deal of force. You want to make sure that you tug evenly so you don’t snap off the connector tabs that hold them together. Repeated assembly and disassembly will also eventually wear and loosen the connectors, when what you want is a snug fit.
Your best option is to set up the track in a place where it can be left out, ideally on a table or platform of some sort. Take it apart only when you want to add to or modify the layout.
Carrera
Carrera has two product lines: GO!!! (analog) and Digital 143. Both are 1:43 scale, so a little on the smaller side. Carrera GO!!! is a perfect starter line. With fun themes like Mario Kart, and Disney/Pixar’s Cars 3, and exciting “action” features like loops, jumps, elevated banks that run up walls, the tracks are ideal for children around eight years old. Sets and accessories are modestly priced, too.
Digital 143
Digital 143 is more advanced, and pricier. Digital cars, for instance, are about double the cost of analog. However, if this is the first track, starting with a digital set can be a good investment, because upgrading from analog to digital requires a bunch of new equipment, including a new powerbase, new cars, and some lane-changing track. The good news is that standard track pieces are universal, so the majority of a GO!!! setup will be ready to go should you decide to upgrade to Digital 143.
The benefit of Carrera’s digital sets is that it supports up to three cars at once and allows for lane switching. Lane changes are done by holding a button on the controller before reaching a special crossover track. For the Digital 143 line, Carrera makes crossover tracks red (or green on the MarioKart set) rather than black so you can identify them easily. Crossover tracks can be single (right-to-left, left-to-right), or double (“X”-shaped).
Scalextric
Our Scalextric sets are the better choice for hobbyists. Scalextric sets have bigger, more detailed cars (1:32 scale), some of which sport cool features like working lights and, in the case of James Bond’s Aston Martin from Goldfinger, ejector seats. They let you build bigger and more technically challenging track layouts, and offer bigger and better opportunities for customization and modification, especially with Scalextric’s digital sets.
There is even a dedicated community of Scalextric racing hobbyists, who conduct full-on tournament racing with rules and regulations. With this in mind, you’ll find that Scalextric tends toward more realism—you won’t find jumps and loops here—and more technical demands.
A Note on Track
Scalextric makes a wide range of track pieces to customize your layout. Straight tracks come in a number of lengths and formats. Some of the unique pieces that are available include starter grids, crossovers for making figure-eights, side-swipes for bumping other racers, and single-lane tracks to run alongside pit lanes. There are borders and guardrails that clip along the side of just about any piece of track to help prevent you from jumping the track. Because the track is flexible, you can give some height to your layouts with elevation supports, banked curve supports, and elevated crossovers.
There are numerous options for curves, from lazy wide turns to harrowing hairpins, crossovers and side-swipes, letting you add a ton of variety and challenge to your set.
The track selector wheel demonstrates the range of curves available. You can find lots of support atscalextric.com/uk-en/, including a download for a Track Designer to help build your layout. It’s also very easy to find online forums and communities to get ideas for customizing your setup.
Scalextric Digital
One of the nice things about Scalextric is that the transition between analog and digital is pretty smooth. Upgrading an analog set will require a new power base, transformer, and some lane-changing track, but the cars are not hooked into one or the other exclusively. Analog cars will run on a digital set with a few button presses on the power base. Lane-changing will be disabled, obviously, but it’s nice to know that your old cars won’t be obsolete if you upgrade. You can do the opposite, too: a digital car will work on an analog set, should the need arise. Most of the analog cars we stock from Scalextric come “digital ready,” and can be upgraded to digital with the simple installation of a microchip. And yes, like Carrera, standard track is compatible between digital and analog; only lane-changing elements are exclusive to digital setups.
Most digital sets from Scalextric come with a power base that supports up to four cars, and can do a few neat tricks like set the cars to run either clockwise or counterclockwise. Stepping up to the Advanced Six-Car Power Base brings a ton of features, like the ability to program various racing modes, set speed caps on individual cars, set cars to reduce speed or even pause in the event that one racer jumps the track, and so on. As far as I’m concerned, however, the coolest feature is the ability to run ghost cars, so you have some competition even when you’re racing by yourself.
ARC systems (App Race Control)
The ARC ONE, ARC AIR and ARC PRO (for digital sets) are the latest additions to Scalextric’s product lineup, which takes advantage of hand-held smart devices to add a whole new dimension to slot racing as a hobby. Set up a Bluetooth-enabled device opposite the power base and use the free iOS or Android application to create and control races, track your statistics, manage and share your collection, and more.
Before you start, you can choose from several different types of races, including Quick Race, Practice, Grand Prix, Endurance, Tournament, Drag Race, Arcade and Pace Car, although not every race is available in all ARC systems. As you play, the app monitors just about anything you can think of, from lap times and lap counts, to speed and penalties. There are several cool additions to mix things up. Turning on fuel consumption, tire wear, or car damage, means that you have to keep an eye on the condition of your car and make a stop in the pits when necessary—or risk disqualification. There are even random “incidents” like engine blow-outs and punctured tires that can bring another measure of unpredictability and realism to the race. After the race, you get analytic breakdowns of your speed, start reaction times, fuel use, and so on, which you can post to Twitter or Facebook.
Finally, there is a “Garage” mode, in which you can catalogue the cars in your collection, save track layouts, and post photos. You can also log your track pieces and accessories and use the app to explore possible layout designs.
The ARC Systems each have their own exciting features.
ARC level ARC race control system
- Hard-wired hand controllers
- Core app functionality
- Analogue system
- 2-car racing
Key features:
- Pit stops
- Post-race statistics
Mid-range ARC race control system
- 2.4Ghz wireless hand controllers
- Intermediate app functionality
- Analogue system
- 2-car racing
Key Features:
All of the features of ARC One plus:
- Wireless controllers (plus rumble)
- Variable race conditions
- Braking button
Premium ARC race control system
- 2.4GHZ wireless hand controllers
- advanced app funcitonality
- Digital system
- Multiple car racing (up to 6)
Key features:
All of the features of ARC AIR plus:
- Lane changing
- Multiple cars
- KERS boost
On your mark, get set…race!
If you are a fan of cars and racing, I believe that you are already aware that racing is not only a fun-filled activity, but it is also a lifelong passion, the reason you find kids and adults enjoying racing games. Besides that, racing games are helpful with family bonding since these games can be fun for all family members- boys and girls alike. For those of you who are in love with this game, the best slot race sets can act as a perfect addition in your gaming collection.
Ideally, the set comprises of electrically-driven miniature cars that travel in a slot on a track. Some of the sets support smartphone apps and lane-switching, which make them great alternatives to races in video games. That said, if you are on the market for a slot car set, below you will find a review of the best electric race car tracks in 2021. The reviewed items comprise sets that include high-quality tracks and high-performing cars. I hope that you will enjoy the list.
List of the Best Electric Race Car Tracks of 2021:
| Preview | Product |
|---|---|
| Scalextric ARC Pro App Race Control Sunset Speedway Slot Car Digital 1:32 Race Track Set... | |
| Anki Overdrive Starter Kit | |
| Hot Wheels Criss Cross Crash Motorized Track Set, 4 High Speed Crash Zones, 4-Way Booster, 4 Loops,... | |
| SCX Extreme Raiders 1:43 Scale Slot Car Set With AC Adaptor and 2 Cars | |
| REMOKING RC Track Car, Rail Race RC Track Car Toys 860cm Build Your Own 3D Super Track Ultimate Slot... | |
| Artin Super Loop Speedway Slot Car Racing Set Slot Car Set | |
| Buenotoys 1:64 Remote Control Track Slot Car Toy(Circumference 354.74 inch) | |
| DMXSLOTS Exclusive Slot Car Racing Package (4 Cars Included) | |
| Carrera GO!!! GT Contest 1:43 Scale Electric Powered Slot Car Race Track Set - Corvette vs Ferrari | |
| Carrera First Disney/Pixar Cars 3 - Slot Car Race Track - Includes 2 cars: Lightning McQueen and... |
10. Scalextric ARC Pro App Race Control Sunset Speedway Slot Car Digital 1:32 Race Track
Get it now on Amazon.comTake advantage of the Scalextric ARC Pro so that you can create and manage races wireless via a handheld device. The digital slot race control system work via a free ARC app which you are supposed to download on your smartphone or tablet. After which, it connects to the device via Bluetooth, giving you the chance to control it. You can control the acceleration characteristic of your car using the preconfigured acceleration graphs.
Moreover, you can limit the maximum power of the car, enabling it to suit your racing style. The ARC PRO includes a braking button designed to enhance more control and power level control. Also, it contains a rumble pack that alerts you about different race features, including weather changes and whether your car needs to pit. With it, you can allow for up to six racers and lane changing properties to guarantee endless fun.
9. Anki Overdrive Starter Kit
Get it now on Amazon.comWhether you want to battle against friends or Al controlled vehicles, you can be sure to get hours of endless fun with Anki Overdrive Starter Kit. The kit comprises two supercars, two riser pieces, four straight track pieces, six 90-degree curved track pieces, a 40-car charging platform, and a tire cleaner.
The Anki Overdrive allows you to use your mobile devices so that you can take command of real robotic supercars. When battling between Android and iOs devices, you must have a wifi connection to enhance smooth play. The supercars are equipped with a dedicated 50MHz CPU, an optical sensor, and two high-performance motors. You can connect the cars to the Anki Overdrive app on your mobile device for you to race immediately.
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8. Hot Wheels Criss Cross Crash Track Set
Get it now on Amazon.comStimulate your kid’s problem-solving skills with the Criss Cross Crash Track Set. The set includes one hot-wheels vehicle so that you can use it as soon as it arrives. There is a cool car feeder that makes it easy for kids to line up lots of Hot Wheel cars to get them on track. Also, there are 4-way loops and crash zones. These challenge kids allowing them to focus on winning the game. The Criss Cross Crash Track Set is equipped with more than 16-feet of track hairpin turns, endless loops and motorized boosters to enhance endless play. Also, it features parking spaces designed to provide additional storage and provide protection against the crash zones.
7. SCX Extreme Raiders 1:43 Scale Slot Car Set
Get it now on Amazon.comCrank up competition among your kids with the Extreme Raiders 1:43 Scale Slot Car Set. The set contains an AC power adaptor, two cars, a 4.5-meters track, two wired controllers, a lap counter, and two wired controllers. On the hand, the track features a loop, a bridge, lane changes, and instructions for four different possible speedy configurations. Because of this, you can opt for this gadget when looking for an electric race car track that is easy to use and designed to deliver hours of endless fun.
6. REMOKING Rail Race RC Track Car Toys
Get it now on Amazon.comGet a new experience of racing with Autoflier Speed Track. The track includes multiple connection points that allow you to connect it to other track sets. It includes a car feeder ramp which makes it easy for kids to add cars. The track comes with two Autoflier vehicles enabling you to use it right out of the box. The track features an 860cm total length to guarantee endless hours of play.
5. Artin Super Loop Speedway Slot Car Racing Set
Get it now on Amazon.comBring back the excitement of car racing when you get the Super Loop Speedway Slot Car Racing Set. The set includes a track that features a range of turns and loops so that it can offer a sense of real tournament racing. Also, it comes with 2 Porsche 911 GTS RS racing cars and two Speed Controllers. These allow you to play the game as soon as the racing set arrives while making it suitable for use by two kids at a time. The track offers over 38 feet of racing distance with two single-action loops designed for above and under racing challenges.
4. Buenotoys 1:64 Remote Control Track Slot Car Toy
Get it now on Amazon.com
Fuel exciting storytelling moments when you get Buenotoys 1:64 Remote Control Track Slot Car Toy. The track is made using high-quality ABS that is not only durable but also safe for kids. The track features 222.24″ of Orbital circumference. Accompanying the track are two cars and two Speed controls which makes it suitable for use by two kids at a time. The 1:64 Remote Control Track provides room to expand your racing options, where you can choose to use expansion sets, a wide selection of additional cars, and accessories to enhance endless hours of fun.
3. DMXSLOTS Exclusive Slot Car Racing Package
Get it now on Amazon.comTake racing to the ultimate level when you get the Exclusive Slot Car Racing Package from DMXSLOTS. The package comprises four cars and four remotes which makes it suitable for use by up to four players. On top of that, there are 12 pieces of straight tracks and 12piecs of curved track, enabling you to form an 18′ total track length.
You can get this package when looking for the best electric race car tracks designed to take the excitement to the next level. The reason is that DMX employs a unique patented rotating pin technology that allows cars to change lanes and overtake. Also, the track provides room for blocking your competitors at any time and place to guarantee an enjoyable playing experience.
2. Carrera GO!!! GT Contest 1:43 Scale Electric Powered Slot Car Race Track Set
Get it now on Amazon.comBoost your kid’s creativity, and experimentation level with the GT Contest 1:43 Scale Electric Powered Slot Car. The track features 12feet of racing distance featuring straight and curved designs. It comes with two cars that reach speeds of up to 370mph. Each of the vehicles features double contact brushes designed to ensure maximum contact with the track. Furthermore, there are strong down-force magnets on the cars designed to allow for quick cornering making it suitable for use by beginners.
The set also includes two Speed controllers. The controllers integrate a turbo boost button designed to offer extra speed so that the cars can jump a ramp, navigate through the loop, or pass the competition. Also, the controllers feature governors. The result is a controller that allows kids to learn and develop their racing skills at a lower speed. The track includes a hotspot junction where near-misses and collisions happen to enhance more fun time.
1. Carrera First Disney/Pixar Cars 3 – Slot Car Race Track
Get it now on Amazon.comA perfect race car track designed for use by little kids is Carrera First Disney/Pixar Cars 3 – Slot Car Race Track. The track offers 7.87feet of racing distance. It features a themed decor which makes it appealing to look at. Furthermore, the set includes two cars- a Lightning McQueen car and a Dinoco Cruz car. The vehicles feature magnets underneath to enhance more control and tight cornering. The two small ergonomic speed controllers are another plus designed for little hands so that kids can control the cars with a lot of ease.
Conclusion
Nothing surpasses the love of families who love performing activities together, the reason it is worth for you to get the best electric race car tracks. Even though you do not enjoy playing the game, introducing the tracks to kids who love cars and cheering them up when playing can bring more fun to kids. So, consider getting one of the reviewed items so that you can upgrade the way your kids enjoy the racing fun.