Tips for selecting your racing set

Selecting the perfect slot car racing set is key to fully enjoying this thrilling hobby. This guide will assist you in making a well-informed decision by exploring various scales, analog vs. digital options, and the top brands on the market.

Which size or scale should you choose?

There are four main scales in the world of Slot Car racing (note that the most common is 1:32):

1:64 :

The smallest scale, seen in AFX Racing sets for adults and Micro Scalextric sets for children. This scale is closest to model trains. Though parts are less common, it allows for compact racing sets alongside miniature trains.

1:43:

Carrera GO!!! sets are ideal for children, providing a great alternative to Micro Scalextric with better value for money. The cars are larger and more detailed, offering exciting track layouts and various themed accessories.

1:32:

The most popular scale for adults and clubs, striking a good balance between detail and affordability. Most manufacturers produce cars in this scale.

1:24:

A high-end option for enthusiasts and clubs, featuring highly detailed cars but at a higher price point.

Analog or Digital?

Analog: The traditional form of slot car racing with one track, two lanes, and two cars. Although analog tracks use the same rails as digital, the power bases and controllers differ. You can upgrade your analog set to digital by purchasing additional components, but this can be costly. If you’re considering switching to digital in the future, it’s recommended to start with a digital set.
Digital: This system uses the same track as analog but features cars equipped with an electronic chip for enhanced control and customization of track sections. A digital racing set can manage up to six cars, offering advanced features such as lane changes, ghost cars, lap counting, and car lighting control.

A key feature of digital racing is lane changing. By pressing a button on the remote, a mechanical device in the track allows the car to switch lanes, adding a strategic element to the race.

AFX Racing vs Carrera vs Policar vs Scalextric?

Each brand operates on the same basic principle, and you will likely be satisfied with any of them. However, there are several scenarios where we recommend one over the other.

Policar

Perfect for clubs, Policar offers analog racing sets with excellent grip, minimizing drift and improving lap times. For racing, a lap counter from another brand can be added. Policar has now replaced the former Ninco track brand.

100% analog racing sets with no electronic components.
Tracks provide strong grip, making them ideal for clubs or rally-style races.
To track laps, you’ll need to add a lap counter from another brand (e.g., DS-Racing).

Carrera DIGITAL 132/124

In recent years, Carrera has become the world’s largest slot car brand, offering a product range that rivals Scalextric and provides more advanced features in several areas.

Superior quality with a more reliable digital system.
Wider tracks, ideal for racing, accommodate both 1:32 and 1:24 cars, offering two distinct racing experiences (power supply adjustments are required).
Fully digital racing sets with enhanced features, including multiple lane changes, up to six ghost cars, lap counting, Safety Car, car lighting control, and more.
Rechargeable wireless controllers with their own charging stations.
Stainless steel rails that resist corrosion.
More rigid rails, ideal for elevated track sections.
Improved lane connections for better stability.
Wider track slots, making it easier to reposition cars.
Car settings and race starts can be managed without additional software or apps.
Enhanced functionality for competitive racing, such as sector times and Pit Lane entry/exit detection.

AFX Racing

Renowned for its compact 1:64 scale racing sets, AFX offers exceptional aesthetic and mechanical quality. Their 1:64 cars, often mistaken for 1:32 due to their impressive detail, showcase the brand’s commitment to high standards.

Excellent quality in both design and performance.
Small footprint.
Popular with both adults and children.
Multiple speed settings available.

Scalextric ARC AIR

The top analog racing set with the best features.

Supports a lap counter through a free app.
Enables power limitation for cars.
Compatible with wireless controllers.

Scalextric ARC PRO

As the most famous slot car brand, Scalextric offers a wide variety of products catering to both children and adults.

Allows the use of both analog and digital cars on the same track without needing to change the powerbase.
Ideal for collectors with many non-digitized cars who still want to race new digital models.
Compact tracks are great for smaller spaces, featuring tighter curve radii, perfect for winding layouts.
The flexible rails are easy to assemble, more durable, and less prone to breaking.

Which racing set should I choose?

For children aged 3 and up, with a budget under £34: We recommend Carrera FIRST. This range is affordable and battery-operated, making it safe for young children.
For children aged 6 and up, with a budget under £60: We suggest Carrera GO!!!. This range is larger than Scalextric’s “Micro” series and offers a good variety of track extensions and additional cars.
When space is limited: Opt for Scalextric ARC. Scalextric tracks are more compact with tighter curves, allowing you to fit more track pieces in a smaller area.
For large racing sets suited for older children and adults: Carrera DIGITAL 132 is a great choice. It provides advanced digital features and the option to upgrade to 1:24 cars.
Choosing between “Carrera Evolution” and “Scalextric Standard”: If you prefer to stick with analog, Scalextric Standard is recommended. It takes up less space while offering similar features, and some sets even include additional car speed adjustments.
Comparing “AFX Racing” and “Micro Scalextric”: We recommend AFX Racing sets for their extensive variety of 1:64 rails. Though slightly more expensive than Micro Scalextric, AFX sets offer greater variety and durability, providing fun for both adults and children.