Best Slot Car Track
Getting Started In 1/32nd Scale Slot Cars
Choosing your 1st Track
If there is a question that is asked more frequently than any other in our hobby, it is: “What is the best track for me to start with?” There are many different opinions out there in our hobby, but below are our personal recommendations.
I am going to list the most popular systems available today, however, there are systems that I feel stand out above the rest. Which brings me to mention again that this article is based solely on my personal preference, so take this into consideration. What I might feel is the ideal track, may not be the best system for you.
Therefore, picking the best slot car tracks is a difficult task. Besides your personal preference, you need to pay attention to types, track material, spaces, and other race track accessories in order to choose the most suitable slot car racetrack.
As stated, there are quite a few choices one could make today in choosing your first track. However, before you choose, take some time and ask yourself a few basic questions:
How much money do you want to spend?
- Some of you are on tighter budgets than others and this can be the biggest factor when choosing a set.
Best Slot Car Track. The use of the word ‘giant’ on the box actually undersells this amazing 62.5-foot track. A combination of risers, curves, and overlaps let you really push the endurance of a race. A digital lap counter and three difficulty modes provide a way to throttle up the difficulty. The cars and track will break under rough. Slot Car World has recently acquired access to the full line of track, accessories and parts and is the U.S. It is an easy track to assemble and disassemble, a hard plastic instead of flexible one, and being almost exactly the size of Scalextric you can fit a 4 lane track in smaller spaces quite nicely. The next slot car to consider is the Carrera GO!!! First of all, let's have a look at the slot car track design. The track consists of several pieces with the slots to insert vehicles. The entire track size is 2.3' x 4.6', so you can easily set it up even in a small room.
How much room do you have?
- The amount of space you have certainly plays a role in your design, and even the track you choose.
Do you want to build a permanent layout?
- Perhaps you only want a smaller layout, or one that is portable and/or that you can change frequently.
These are just 3 of the many questions that determine what track might be best for you. Thankfully, our hobby has a vast selection of track systems to fit just about any need. With all that is currently available today, you can find the track system that’s just right for you, and with a price you can afford.
Artin, Carrera, Ninco, and Scalextric Sport are the major brands I recommend that are available to you today. Other/older track systems are still available as well, but the above mentioned brands will provide you with all you need to enjoy the hobby, and are easier to find parts and accessories for. One other thing to keep in mind when purchasing your first set is the cars. Even the best track system will not please you if the cars you have included in it do not. All the below systems offer the newcomer an excellent choice of high quality slot cars in their sets. Artin cars are also decent quality, but they lack the scale detail and performance found in some of the other manufacturers today.
This doesn't make them bad, in fact it makes them almost perfect for the beginning enthusiast and for our younger racers.
Also, depending on your budget, if you KNOW what brand you want and that this is the hobby for you, try and purchase the largest set you can afford. It is a lot cheaper in the long run when you do this as the extra track pieces, borders, etc, included in the larger sets are less expensive when purchased in a set, than if you purchased these separately.
If you know what track you want, but not sure of your design, I can safely suggest Tracker 2000 layout design software. I have used this program many times even after I have designed my own and is well worth the small cost. Also, many enthusiasts use this software themselves and have posted many layout suggestions throughout the world wide web.
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The Artin track system has had one major advantage over the years: Price. If money is the bottom line, you might want to take a look at what they have to offer. Slot Car World has recently acquired access to the full line of track, accessories and parts and is the U.S. distributor. It is an easy track to assemble and disassemble, a hard plastic instead of flexible one, and being almost exactly the size of Scalextric you can fit a 4 lane track in smaller spaces quite nicely. As mentioned above the quality of the cars available are not as detailed or perform like the cars found in Scalextric, Ninco and Carrera sets. But these cars make great beginner cars for younger (and older) racers to bang around and learn to drive. I like the system as an inexpensive way to see if you really like the hobby, but if you end up catching a bad case of slot car fever, you’re going to need some upgrades, most importantly power, to get the most of the system.
Click here to read my recent review of the Artin 4 lane system, or the 2 Lane System and see if it is right for you.
I try and cover the pro's and con's of this system, so if you have the time, give it a read.
ARTIN UPDATE!
I have come to the conclusion after racing with this system for a while that it is one of the best tracks to get started with. And to be honest, one that can grow with your interest in the hobby. The track surface is smooth, and I prefer the hard plastic track for almost all track designs. Many enthusiasts like utilizing crossovers and elevating their track, and here is where the harder track systems like Artin and Carrera are ideal.
If you ask most 'veteran' slot racers, they will tell you that upgrading power and control is needed on ALL track systems. I don't really think this is the case, however if you are going to upgrade in the future then the controller and power supply included in these sets mean nothing. So when you look at the price of Artin, it becomes an even greater value if you are just going to replace the power and control components in the future.
New track pieces are now available to help this track system have more design flexibility. However you can still design a fun, challenging course with this track. In our new store we just built a very challenging and fun layout using only the track pieces included in two 4 Lane Sets.
There are a lot of misconceptions about the Artin system. Most of what you hear that is negative about the system is either untrue or unimportant. It is the best system to not only start your hobby, but one that can grow over time. We have chosen this system for THREE layouts in our store to show how versatile it is, and that it CAN accommodate the enthusiast at different levels of interest.
The first track is simply a 2 lane layout built with only the track found in the 2 lane set. There is enough track in this entry level set to create a very fun and challenging layout in a small space. The venerable 4 X 8 sheet of plywood is the most common table utilized by enthusiasts in not only our hobby, but others as well. Having a track design that fits this space is VERY important to those who decide they enjoy this hobby enough to build a more permanent and dedicated raceway.
Our Second track is the 4 Lane Show-Me Speedway Oval. This 24 foot track is perfect for both the beginner and for the advanced enthusiast. Oval racing is some of the most fun in the hobby and you owe it to yourself to build and race on one before dismissing them. Construction is simple and is again based on the 4 X 8 series of tables. Our track uses 3 of these tables set end to end. If you do not have room, you can always shorten it to 16 feet.
The third track system is based on utilizing only 2 of the Artin 4 lane sets and is ideal for any enthusiast. This is our signature track and has become some of the most fun we have had in this hobby. This shows that the Artin system can be utilized to build a layout for the advanced enthusiast and also how easy it is to add items such as banking and painting the track for added realism.
All 3 of these layouts have 2 things in common:
1. NONE of these layouts utilize more than 3 different track pieces:
The Standard R1 curve, the Outer R2 curve and standard 11 inch straight.
This proves you DO NOT need to have additional specialty track to design a fun layout.
2. All of these track systems are inexpensive.
The 2 lane set can be built from the ground up for under $200.00 and even the advanced Dixon Hills Speedway was constructed under $800 and that includes the computer and custom timing track.
In the end, this is the track system I have chosen for my personal use and I must recommend it to anyone starting in our hobby today. It combines high quality with a price that anyone can afford.
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Carrera track sets itself apart from the rest as actually being 1/24th scale (188mm roughly 7 3/4 inches wide) track. If your thinking you might like to run this scale, as well as 1/32nd, this is most likely your track. Like Artin, Carrera track is of a harder plastic design than that of the flexible plastic designs of Scalextric, SCX and Ninco. This system has long been the racing surface of choice for many in the hobby, and it still is today. If you have the room, you can certainly create some fantasticlayouts. The track rails are a low grade stainless steel and while it may have less magnetic attraction it promotes good electrical connections and prevents rust/corrosion which is good for harsh environments (damp basements, Garages, etc.) The harder plastic track also is ideal for these areas where humidity and temperature changes are present.However, you will need more space than you would with other systems, so if space is an issue, you may want to look elsewhere.
I sometimes think of Carrera as being the 'Cadillac' of track systems. It has a wonderfully smooth surface, durable rails, deep slot and the added room for larger scale models. We have built several layouts using this system over the years and we enjoyed every one of them. This track is ideal for those who have a larger budget, and also a larger amount of space to work with.
You might hear that Carrera track is difficult to assemble or take apart. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I don't think it is difficult at all to assemble. It does take a little more TIME...but that doesn't mean it is more DIFFICULT. Carrera utilizes small plastic clips underneath to secure the track together. Once installed, you have simply the smoothest track connection in the plastic track arena.
Carrera has a great selection of systems including some very nice models that are simply beautiful, to go with them. I have to recommend the Carrera track, as it has provided many hours of trouble-free racing.
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NINCO track is a fine system in its own right. It is a flexible track system and is slightly wider (7') than conventional 1/32nd scale track. The main reason I didn't prefer this track was the racing surface is not smooth. The surface of the track is almost abrasive in nature, and I just didn't care for it. That certainly doesn't mean you won't and this is not to say it isn't a good system to start with. On the plus side, NINCO produces some of the nicest 1/32nd scale models available today, and usually the prices are just right for some budgets. The transformer supplied in the sets is outstanding, and I have used these transformers for years on my home layout before recently upgrading. The controllers than come with this system are also some of the best you can find in stock form. The OHM rating for these controllers are better suited for a wider variety of models and we found the throttle response to be the best out of 'set' controllers. The NINCO system has a nice selection of accessories and track components, making it a decent choice to get started.
Check theREVIEW ARCHIVESsection for a look at some of the fine models they offer. Ninco accomplished a great balance of scale detail and smooth performance that has made their models favorites on our track.
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This brings us to the Scalextric Sport. At roughly 6 1/8 inches wide, this track has plenty of room for 1/32nd scale racing. Improved over their older classic track system, it addressed some of the problems of the classic system that enthusiasts wanted changed, which shows their commitment to the hobby. It now has a deeper groove, recessed flush rails, and best of all a smoother surface.
The track system is a flexible plastic design and offers a wide variety of specialty track sections. However I want to amplify something about the models in these sets. Scalextric makes some truly wonderful slot cars that fill the 'need for speed' for almost anyone. Utilizing a stronger bar magnet allows these models to stay on the track easier and provides very fast racing. Many of these cars are lighted and have a very good level of scale appeal. To sum it up, they make some of the best models available in our hobby and this makes choosing Scalextric to get started a good choice.
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Sometimes analysis leads to paralysis. Don't let this happen to you, because in the end it really doesn't matter what brand you choose, just get started in the hobby!
Regardless of what system you begin with ,once you DO get started, you will find what style you enjoy the best, and you can begin to upgrade and custom tailor your track to those styles. I know many of people that started out with one brand, and after a while, they change to something different. I am one of those people myself, and honestly, with set prices being what they are, you are certainly not locked in to one brand if you decide you don't like what you have.
So don't wait to begin one of the most satisfying hobbies the world has to offer. Grab a set and get racing, and remember its all about having FUN!
Then you will know that the best track is the one YOU own!
Harry
If you have any other question regarding track systems, feel free toemail meor drop me a line in the
This article is a little less bot-like and little more for the hobbyists out there. We’ve got all the best slot car set options to add to your collection this year. It’s great to live in an age when the ‘frivolous’ fun of youth gets retooled and upgraded. Many things that were thought of as toys are now series machines that support careers. Slot car racing might not quite be useful as a job, but it certainly has come a long way.
Slot cars provide the thrill of participating in a competition based on control and instinct. The feeling of hard-fought victory may explain some of slot car racings remarkable history and growth. Today the best slot car set combines the simple pleasures of old with new levels of realism. Branded sets give a glimpse into car culture and the world of racing.
Whether you are starting as a beginner or developing a collection as an enthusiast, slot cars have a lot to offer.
10 Best Slot Car Set Picks
Now that you have a grasp of the ins and outs of the hobby, we’ll look at some great picks for getting started in slot car racing.
Best Slot Car Set for Kids
This set from the Go!!! line makes an excellent starter set for kids. The 1:43 scale is compatible with Carrera’s Digital 143 hobbyist line but geared for children. They will love the character representations and the easy-to-learn analog controls. The set features a lap counter, three difficulty modes, and a loop. Prices are reasonable and the durability will hold up to some aggressive usage from the eight and up crowd.
Best Slot Car Track
The use of the word ‘giant’ on the box actually undersells this amazing 62.5-foot track. A combination of risers, curves, and overlaps let you really push the endurance of a race. A digital lap counter and three difficulty modes provide a way to throttle up the difficulty. The cars and track will break under rough handling but can survive some rough and tumble starts. Controls can get set to digital or analog.
You get a lot in the box but the drawback of this system is its lack of major compatibility as it’s not provided by one of the frontrunner companies. This is one of the best slot car track to buy because of it’s size for the price.
Best Slot Car Set for the Money
This middle tier (in size and difficulty) product from Carrera features 1:25 scale cars and tracks. The smaller cars make the track look long and winding without taking up too much space. This size also allows for more reaction time and skill improvement in comparison to the 1:34 line.
Best Slot Car Track For Adults
The included Mustang GT and Shelby Cobra cars are fun. They have great detail and identical performance. It’s a shame that the cars don’t have different handling or speeds. Carrera’s track kit comes with risers and a combination of cure grades to create some solid skill-building tracks. The guard rails protect most of the track so you will have few problems will fly-offs.
Best Slot Car Set for Beginners
Geared for children but with compatibility to other 1:32 Scalextric products, comes the Fast and Furious set. The cars have a bit of bulk in comparison to some other slot car products. This provides them with some needed heft when going over the signature jump of this set.
The track provides some incredible competitive features usually found in larger sets. Aside from the jump, the set includes a crossover section and a sideswipe area. This narrowing of the track can allow one car to shove the other off the track to devastating effect.
Finally, the set comes with analog controls but has a digital plug ready to upgrade or if you want to use the cars elsewhere.
This set brings a little more gimmick than performance over other top sets. The track is made of a durable light absorbing material that glows in the dark. Kids will love watching the cars zipping through the near total darkness on a futuristic glowing roadway. The cars and the track are extremely durable and even a bit rubbery over other sets.
The controls are analog only and a bit heavy on the battery power. The set itself uses batteries instead of an adapter setup. The 46 feet of track store well and come apart without the usual concern for edges as the power is in the cars via the controller chargers. A good beginner set if rough-playing children is a concern for more delicate products.
Another in the line of big boxes loaded with some competent and durable beginners equipment. The 1:43 scale of the track and cars are perfect for many Carrerra products but won’t necessarily be compatible.
Analog controls and hard to break cars make it easy to deal with the ostentatious track. LEDs installed under the tracks or on the loop configurations add some spectacular color. This set only has two-speed modes. The jump between the two can be a bit much for smaller children. Watch out for that frustration when swapping modes!
Best Digital Slot Car Set
The track only allows for a simple oval without purchasing more track. But with the track at 1:43 scale, this can be easy to find. For those looking to supply a larger competitive experience, this set comes with four cars and controllers. The cars use dynamic racing technology to allow them to jump slots on the track and move back and forth across lanes easily. This creates a heated competitive experience.
The durability of the track and cars is surprisingly high with all the grooves in the track.
Another from the kid-friendly Go!!! line but with some added pizazz. The 1:43 scale cars have a lot of detail from the stock car world with branding and logos galore. The track features loops, banked turns, and a 70-degree raised bank. The lower speed is just enough to keep the cars on the track across the more dynamic features.
The set comes with spacers for the controllers that work as throttle limiters. This makes changing speed settings even more intuitive. The excitement kicks in when you go to the intermediate or advanced settings. Controls are analog with digital ready options.
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. Similar to changing gears, you can also swap the power levels on the fly. Most sets require the levels to be set through the power supply between races.
At 1:32 scale it is compatible with other Scalextric products even those in the ARC line. The cars have beautiful and intricate detailing and run like a dream.
Best Slot Car Set for Enthusiasts
For the serious enthusiast looking to get started in the digital control and competition world comes the Platinum GT. The set comes with four cars and supports up to six.The provided cars accurately simulate high-end vehicles from several manufacturers. Feel the power of a Mercedes, BMW, Aston Martin, or Porsche. A tablet app and stand provide a scoreboard.
As a starter for the ARC Pro line, this also gets you a toehold which can be expanded by adding more track. It already has a stellar set of features built in including pit stops, tire wear, lane changing, and even weather. More features can be added with additional programming.
Best Slot Car Set Features
Best Slot Car Race Sets
Ask an expert what makes the best of anything and they’ll start spitting jargon and fuzzy metrics at you. They’re not dodging the question, they just happen to need to answer it with the knowledge you might not have. Armed with this information, we’ll highlight a few of the best sets currently on the market, much as we’ve done with electric trains.
Brands
Brands of slot car racing sets matter. In part, the brand offers a window into the rich history of the hobby. More importantly, it tells you something about the compatibility of products. In a wise move, each company ensures that sets within a certain timeframe work together. This means you can start with a brand and continue to purchase new sets without fear your new pieces will no longer be compatible with the old sets.
The top brands currently offering slot car excitement include:
- Ninco
- SCX
- Carrera
- Scalextric
Scalextric and Carrera lead the market in terms of sales, branded deals, and history.
Controls
Controls come in digital and analog formats. Some companies even use smartphone apps as controllers.
- Analog controls connect to the track and set the power fed to a specific lane. These controllers use a pressure switch to regulate power and go back to the start of slot car racing.
- Digital controls are newer and provide more options, overall. These control specific cars. With these options for track changes and more competitive elements became possible. Digital controllers also free up internal components, since these are on the car and not the track. This allows sets to support four to six cars instead of the standard two.
Tracks and Customization
As we just touched on, tracks come in 2, 4, or 6 car configurations. Tracks no longer conform to simple ovals and eights but can be built out to cover dramatic shapes and recreations of real-world courses. Components such as pit areas, risers, and different slopes for corners all increase the excitement and the skill level of slot car racing. Amazing features such as loop da loops and lane switching panels add to the danger.
Also taking a page from model trains, slot car sets provide even more entertainment when dolled up. Combine accessories and miniatures to create a facsimile of the real world.
The most advanced sets leave space for a monitor, tablet, or smartphone to be used as a digital scoreboard. These display number of laps, lap times, and other information. Pace cars and AI controlled opponents provide ways of improving skills. Pit areas go from fun visual additions to necessary tools when you add in fuel limits (power limits) to the cars.
Tire wear, car damage, and incidents programmed into the race bring up the realism.
Durability
Having a lot of customization and parts comes with a hit to durability. Cars, now heavier and laden with internal control mechanisms (for digital controllers) become easier to break. They also go up in price to replace. The track edges fit together snuggly to prevent lines and grooves which could trip up a speeding car. This makes them easier to put together than pull apart. When pulling apart a track, the edges need to be pristine or it will interrupt power flow.
Power Needs
Power bases work double duty in the best slot car racing sets. They provide power to the track and/or cars but also manage elements of the race program. A power base can be configured to provide power to the 2, 4, or 6 cars and also for which control scheme is preferred. In this way, the power base is essentially the computer running the rest of the track.
Cars
Slot cars retain a surprising level of backward compatibility even with the new technology. Not the most key reason collections of vintage models grow in popularity and price, but it is worth consideration. Adjustments kits for tweaking the tires, weight of the car, and the connection to the track all provide more nuance to a race. While track pieces stay compatible only within a specific brand, cars can be widely used across different sets.
Accessories
Finally, third-party accessories (a staple in hobbyist circles) give more options in the aftermarket. PC controllers simulate realistic racetrack options and run from a computer. AI-programmed cars find their ways into shops.