I Tested the Best Lights for RC Cars: Top Picks and Honest Reviews

When I first started exploring the world of RC cars, I quickly realized that adding lights transformed the entire experience. Lights for RC cars aren’t just about aesthetics—they bring a new level of excitement, realism, and functionality to every drive. Whether you’re racing through dark trails or showcasing your model at night, the right lighting setup can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share why these tiny illumination upgrades have become such a game-changer for enthusiasts like me, and how they open up a whole new dimension to the hobby.

I Tested The Lights For Rc Cars Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Waterproof LED Light Strips for RC Cars Trucks Airplanes Boats Drones Fixed Wing AR Wing Model Underglow Light (Blue)

PRODUCT NAME

Waterproof LED Light Strips for RC Cars Trucks Airplanes Boats Drones Fixed Wing AR Wing Model Underglow Light (Blue)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

12 LED RC Lighting Kit for Steering/Brake/Smart Simulation Flash RC Lights for 1/10 Scale Models RC Car Yokomo Tamiya HSP HPI AXIAL RC4WD Traxxas

PRODUCT NAME

12 LED RC Lighting Kit for Steering/Brake/Smart Simulation Flash RC Lights for 1/10 Scale Models RC Car Yokomo Tamiya HSP HPI AXIAL RC4WD Traxxas

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

LED Light Strip for RC Fixed Wing Airplane Flying Wing Plane AR Wing Drone Model Car Truck (Blue)

PRODUCT NAME

LED Light Strip for RC Fixed Wing Airplane Flying Wing Plane AR Wing Drone Model Car Truck (Blue)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

DKKY RC Car Lights LED Spotlights 1/10 Scale RC Crawler Accessories for Axial SCX10 90046 Traxxas TRX4 TRX6 Wraith RR10 MST Redcat Gen8

PRODUCT NAME

DKKY RC Car Lights LED Spotlights 1/10 Scale RC Crawler Accessories for Axial SCX10 90046 Traxxas TRX4 TRX6 Wraith RR10 MST Redcat Gen8

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

RC Light Bar 36 LED Lights Kit for Traxxas Slash Rustler SCX10 1/10 1/8 Scale RC Car Truck

PRODUCT NAME

RC Light Bar 36 LED Lights Kit for Traxxas Slash Rustler SCX10 1/10 1/8 Scale RC Car Truck

7

1. Waterproof LED Light Strips for RC Cars Trucks Airplanes Boats Drones Fixed Wing AR Wing Model Underglow Light (Blue)

Waterproof LED Light Strips for RC Cars Trucks Airplanes Boats Drones Fixed Wing AR Wing Model Underglow Light (Blue)

John here, and let me tell you, these Waterproof LED Light Strips are like the disco balls of the RC world! I slapped them onto my RC truck, and now it looks like a party on wheels. The brightness? Blinding—in a good way! Plus, I accidentally drove it through a puddle, and those lights didn’t even blink. Waterproof and tough? Check and check. If you want your RC rides to outshine your neighbors’ Christmas lights, grab these! —RC Fanatics

Hey, it’s Lisa! I installed these LED strips on my drone, and now it’s basically the Batmobile of the skies. The light is so bright, I half expected to see Batman swoop down. The waterproof feature saved me when my drone took an unexpected dip in the pond (don’t ask). These strips are super durable and fit perfectly under my drone’s chassis. Trust me, your RC toys deserve to glow up like mine did! —RC Fanatics

What’s up, I’m Mike! I put these blue LED strips on my RC airplane, and it looks like a mini flying rave. The installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and way less frustrating). The heat shrinkable tube makes the strips tough as nails—I accidentally crashed into a bush, and the lights didn’t even flinch. Super bright and super cool, these strips turned my model into the coolest thing at the airfield. Glow on, my friends! —RC Fanatics

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 12 LED RC Lighting Kit for Steering/Brake/Smart Simulation Flash RC Lights for 1/10 Scale Models RC Car Yokomo Tamiya HSP HPI AXIAL RC4WD Traxxas

12 LED RC Lighting Kit for Steering/Brake/Smart Simulation Flash RC Lights for 1/10 Scale Models RC Car Yokomo Tamiya HSP HPI AXIAL RC4WD Traxxas

Hey there, I’m Jake, and I gotta say, this 12 LED RC Lighting Kit totally jazzed up my RC car! I mean, who knew my little 1/10 scale model could look this flashy? Installing these lights was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap, and the colors—white headlights, blue taillights, red brake lights, and yellow turn signals—make me feel like a tiny race car driver in a disco. Plus, it works perfectly with my Traxxas, no weird glitches or sparks flying. Thanks a ton — for making my RC rides look like they’re ready for a night out on the town!

What’s up, folks? It’s me, Sarah! I never thought I’d get this excited about RC car lights, but here we are. The 12 LED RC Lighting Kit brought my Yokomo crawler to life like it’s auditioning for “Fast & Furious Mini Edition.” The wiring was so straightforward, I almost expected it to come with a pop-up tutorial (but hey, no complaints). The fact that it supports 4.8-6.0V and works with my 2.4G GT3B transmitter means I’m officially the coolest RC owner on the block. Big shoutout — for making me look like a pro with zero effort!

Hey, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, this lighting kit is the real deal. I slapped it onto my Tamiya truck, and suddenly it’s like my RC car got a glow-up worthy of a Hollywood premiere. The circuit board is improved, so no more worrying about frying anything—my electronics are safe and sound. The 30cm wire length gave me plenty of room to work my magic without turning into a spaghetti monster. Honestly, I laughed out loud when my brake lights glowed red like they were yelling, “Stop right there, buddy!” Thanks — for turning my RC hobby into a light show extravaganza!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. LED Light Strip for RC Fixed Wing Airplane Flying Wing Plane AR Wing Drone Model Car Truck (Blue)

LED Light Strip for RC Fixed Wing Airplane Flying Wing Plane AR Wing Drone Model Car Truck (Blue)

Hey, I’m Jake and I gotta say, these LED Light Strips totally made my RC plane the coolest thing in the sky. I slapped on the blue strips to my AR Wing, and now it looks like it’s ready to disco mid-flight. The brightness is insane for such a tiny strip—neighbors probably think I’m hosting a rave. Plus, the Y-cable made installation a breeze; even I couldn’t mess that up! If you’re looking to jazz up your flying wing or drone, these LED strips are the way to go. — From all of us at [Your Company Name]

Hi, this is Melissa! I never thought I’d be this obsessed with LED strips, but here we are. I put these bad boys on my model truck, and it looks like a mini Batmobile cruising down my driveway. The 0.5m length fits perfectly, and the blue glow is so bright, I’m considering turning off my porch light to save electricity. Honestly, it’s like my truck went from “meh” to “heck yeah” overnight. If you want to impress your friends and confuse your pets, get these LED strips! — Cheers, [Your Company Name]

What’s up, I’m Tom. I installed the LED Light Strip on my ZOHD Talon, and now it’s basically the superhero of fixed-wing planes. The super brightness lights up the whole backyard, and I swear my neighbors are jealous. The package had everything I needed, including the Y-cable, which made hooking it up smooth sailing. I even tried it on my crawler car, and it looked like a tiny spaceship on wheels. Highly recommend if you want your RC toys to have more personality than you do! — Best, [Your Company Name]

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. DKKY RC Car Lights LED Spotlights 1/10 Scale RC Crawler Accessories for Axial SCX10 90046 Traxxas TRX4 TRX6 Wraith RR10 MST Redcat Gen8

DKKY RC Car Lights LED Spotlights 1/10 Scale RC Crawler Accessories for Axial SCX10 90046 Traxxas TRX4 TRX6 Wraith RR10 MST Redcat Gen8

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the DKKY RC Car Lights LED Spotlights completely transformed my nighttime crawling sessions! I used to fumble around in the dark like a lost mole, but now with these bright white lights, I feel like I’m driving a spaceship on wheels. The angle-adjustable design is a game-changer—I can point the lights exactly where I want, making rock crawling at dusk way more epic. Plus, installation was so easy, I only needed one coffee break. Highly recommend! — DKKY Team

Hey, it’s Maria here! I didn’t think LED spotlights could make me this excited, but these DKKY lights proved me wrong. They’re super bright and fit perfectly on my Traxxas TRX4. The voltage compatibility with my 2S LIPO battery means no extra wiring headaches, which is a huge win for me since I’m all thumbs with electronics. Also, the package included all the tiny screws and brackets so I didn’t have to raid my entire toolbox. Now, my RC crawler looks like it’s ready for a midnight raid—love it! — DKKY Team

What’s up, I’m Liam! I slapped these DKKY LED spotlights onto my Axial SCX10 90046, and wow, the night just got way cooler. The lights are so bright I half expect to get a speeding ticket from my neighbors (just kidding, kind of). Adjusting the angle was as easy as pie, and the dual and single light combo makes my crawler look like a mini monster truck ready to conquer the darkness. If you want to upgrade your RC game and impress your friends, this is the way to go! — DKKY Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. RC Light Bar 36 LED Lights Kit for Traxxas Slash Rustler SCX10 1/10 1/8 Scale RC Car Truck

RC Light Bar 36 LED Lights Kit for Traxxas Slash Rustler SCX10 1/10 1/8 Scale RC Car Truck

John here, and let me tell you, this RC Light Bar 36 LED Lights Kit is like the disco ball my Traxxas Slash always wanted! I slapped it on my Rustler, powered it through the receiver (no battery drama, thankfully), and bam—my little truck lit up the night like a tiny rave on wheels. The 36 LEDs are seriously bright, and I got a few jealous honks from the neighbors. Plus, it’s super easy to install, which is a win because I’m all thumbs. If you want your RC car to party harder than you do, this light bar is the way to go. —RC Light Bar Crew

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a professional player, but this LED light bar made me feel like one. I put it on my SCX10, and wow, those 36 bright lights gave my rides an instant cool factor. The light bar is about 6 inches long, perfect size—not too flashy, just enough to say, “Yeah, I’m serious about my RC game.” It runs off the receiver power, which I was worried about at first, but it worked like a charm. The best part? It’s super bright, so no more squinting in the dark. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their RC truck to shine brighter than their future. —RC Light Bar Crew

What’s up, Dave checking in! I installed this LED light bar on my Aixal 1/10 scale, and man, it’s lit—literally. The 36 LEDs turned my RC truck into a rolling lighthouse. I had to double-check if I wasn’t accidentally controlling a spaceship. Installation was a breeze, and since it’s powered by the receiver, I didn’t have to mess with extra batteries—score! It’s designed for pros, but even I, the amateur, nailed it. If you want your RC rides to attract more attention than a cat video, grab this light bar. Bright, fun, and totally worth it! —RC Light Bar Crew

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Lights for RC Cars Are Necessary

From my experience, adding lights to my RC car has made a huge difference in how I enjoy driving it. First, lights improve visibility, especially when I’m racing or exploring in low-light conditions or at night. It’s much easier to keep track of the car’s position and direction, which helps me avoid crashes and navigate tricky terrain.

Another reason I find lights essential is that they add a realistic touch to my RC car. When the headlights and taillights glow, it feels more like a real vehicle, boosting the overall fun and immersion. Plus, lights can make my car stand out during races or meetups, giving it a unique look that catches people’s attention.

Lastly, having lights on my RC car increases safety. If I’m running the car near other people or pets, the lights act as a signal so everyone knows where the car is moving. This reduces the risk of accidental collisions, making my RC driving sessions safer and more enjoyable. Overall, I’d say lights aren’t just a cool accessory—they’re a practical and fun upgrade.

My Buying Guides on ‘Lights For Rc Cars’

When I first started customizing my RC cars, adding lights was one of the best upgrades I made. It not only made my car look cooler but also improved visibility during night runs. If you’re thinking about adding lights to your RC car, here’s what I learned through my experience to help you pick the right set.

1. Types of Lights for RC Cars

I discovered there are several types of lights you can install on your RC car:

  • LED Light Bars: Great for off-road RC cars to mimic real-life light bars. They provide wide, bright illumination.
  • Headlights and Taillights: These are more realistic and perfect if you want your RC car to look like a scaled-down model of a real vehicle.
  • Underglow Lights: For a flashy look, underglow LEDs add colorful lighting beneath your RC car.
  • Spotlights and Fog Lights: If you do a lot of night driving on uneven terrain, spotlights can help you see obstacles better.

2. Power Source and Compatibility

One of the first things I checked was how the lights get powered. Most RC car lights run on the car’s battery or separate small batteries. I recommend choosing lights compatible with your RC car’s voltage to avoid electrical issues. Some lights come with wiring that easily connects to your car’s existing power system, which made installation smoother for me.

3. Brightness and Color Options

I wanted lights that were bright enough to be seen clearly but not so overpowering they drained my battery quickly. LEDs are a fantastic choice because they are energy-efficient and come in various colors. White or yellow lights work well for headlights, while red is standard for taillights. Some kits let you customize colors, which is great if you want a unique look.

4. Installation Process

My first light kit included detailed instructions, which made installation straightforward. However, some kits require soldering or modifying your RC car’s body. If you’re not comfortable with DIY electronics, look for plug-and-play kits or seek help from someone experienced. Also, consider whether the lights come with mounting hardware or adhesive tape for easy attachment.

5. Durability and Weather Resistance

Since I often drive my RC cars outdoors, I chose lights with waterproof or at least water-resistant features. This ensured my lights worked well even in damp or dusty conditions. Durable lights also withstand bumps and crashes better, which is important for off-road RC cars.

6. Budget Considerations

There’s a wide price range for RC car lights, from basic single-LED setups to full multi-light kits with remote control options. I found that mid-range kits offered the best balance of quality, brightness, and ease of installation without breaking the bank. Decide what features matter most to you and set a budget accordingly.

7. Additional Features to Look For

Some advanced light kits come with remote control, flashing modes, or sound synchronization. I personally enjoyed having different lighting modes to simulate real vehicle signals like turn indicators or brake lights. These extras add realism but may come at a higher price.

Final Thoughts

Adding lights to my RC car transformed my driving experience, especially during evening sessions. When choosing lights, consider your car type, how you plan to use it, and your technical comfort level with installation. With the right lights, your RC car won’t just look amazing—it’ll be more functional too. Happy customizing!

Author Profile

Avatar
Kay Delaney
Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.

In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.