A finished model on the shelf is nice. A model you can then drive yourself is even better. Remote-controlled building blocks combine both: the building fun of a sophisticated Technic set and the driving fun of an RC vehicle.

For adults in particular, that's a great combination. While building, you understand how drive, steering and gearbox work – and afterwards you see how everything works together. Here you'll find out what matters with RC sets and which models we recommend.

What's inside a remote-controlled set?

Besides the bricks, an RC building block set has three technical components:

• Motors drive wheels, tracks, steering or working functions. The more motors, the more movements can be controlled independently.
• A control unit receives your commands and supplies the motors with power.
• A remote or app is your interface to the model.

All the sets we present here already include this technology. So you don't need to buy anything extra.

Static or remote-controlled?

Static models are pure display models: they focus on looks and details and sit on the shelf once built. Remote-controlled models go one step further. They need space for motors and electronics, but in return, what you've built actually moves.

The rule of thumb: if you mainly want to collect and display, a static set is ideal. If you want to drive, dig or lift, there's no way around an RC set.

Remote or app?

A classic remote sits well in the hand and responds directly. Ideal if you simply want to get going.

The smartphone app shows its strengths on models with many functions, such as excavators or cranes, where several motors work at the same time. Many sets support both. You can see which control method is included on the respective product page.

Which RC set suits you?

Sports cars and hypercars

For car fans, the Cada Ferrari C61042W is a highlight: an Italian supercar in 1:8 scale with 3,187 pieces, a V8, LED lighting and PRO motors.

Also built in 1:8 scale is the Cada Yangwang U9, an electric hypercar with four motors, app control and an LED light matrix.

Off-road

Like it rough? The Mould King 13061 6x6 is modelled on the Mercedes G700 6x6, has 3,686 pieces and several motors and can be controlled via remote or app. With its three axles, it's a real eye-catcher – and a great example of how much technology fits into a building block model.

Construction machines

Excavators and crawlers show what motors can do: driving tracks, rotating superstructures, lifting booms. A good entry point is the Mould King Excavator 13112 with 1,830 pieces and control via remote or app.

More power comes from the Cada Bulldozer C61056: seven motors, 1:16 scale and 2,826 pieces.

Tractors

For farming fans, there's the Mould King Tractor 17020: 2,716 pieces, remote-controlled and with mounting options for attachments.

Trains

Railway fans get their money's worth too. The remote-controlled Mould King 12024 4-4-0 steam locomotive comes with a tender, a passenger car, a mountain tunnel scene and an oval track.

Trucks

Remote-controlled trucks are a chapter of their own. Semi-truck, crane truck, fire engine: we present the best models in our guide to building block trucks.

Our RC recommendations at a glance

Who is an RC set for?

For everyone who doesn't want to stop once the last brick is in place. RC sets are ideal for tech fans who want to understand how motors, gearboxes and steering work together. They're also exciting for families: building together, and driving together even more so.

How building an RC set works

Most remote-controlled models are built in similar stages. First you build the chassis, drive and steering. Then the motors and control unit go into place and the cables are routed. Finally come the bodywork, cab or superstructures.

Plan short test runs between the stages. That way you'll notice right away whether everything works and won't have to take anything apart later. Give yourself some space for the first drive – and enjoy the moment your model moves for the first time.

Tips for more driving fun

• Test early: Check motors and cables as soon as they're installed – not only once the bodywork is closed.
• Route cables neatly: Loose cables can get caught in gears or tracks.
• Keep an eye on power: If the motors become noticeably slower, check the power supply.
• The right surface: Sports cars prefer smooth floors, while tracked vehicles also cope with uneven ground.

After the drive

To keep your model running for a long time, a quick check after driving is worthwhile. Remove hair and dust from axles and wheels – especially on carpet, things like to wrap around the axles. Switch off the power supply completely and place the model somewhere dust-protected. That way it's ready to go again for the next drive.

Order worry-free from KBS

All sets at KBS are LEGO-compatible. If a piece is missing during the build, we'll send it to you free of charge. And thanks to our 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try out your RC set risk-free.

Frequently asked questions about remote-controlled building blocks

Are remote-controlled building blocks suitable for adults?

Absolutely. Many RC sets have several thousand pieces and sophisticated mechanics – just right for adult builders who want more than a display model.

Do I need a smartphone?

Not necessarily. Many sets come with a remote, and the app is then an additional option. Exactly what's included is shown on the respective product page.

Are the sets compatible with LEGO?

Yes, all sets at KBS are LEGO-compatible.

What happens if a piece is missing?

Get in touch with us – we'll send missing pieces free of charge.