The reason is simple: Electric RC boats are simply the easiest to operate. Because electric RC boats are so easy to work with, newcomers will get out on the water faster than they will with gas- or nitro-powered RC boats.

Electric RC boats work much the same way that electric RC cars operate. Simply put, you’ll control your electric RC boat with some version of a handheld remote-control device. This device will usually have a button that gets the RC boat moving and a steering wheel that allows you to control the direction in which the boat is headed.

Electric RC boats are also fairly affordable. They’re certainly less costly than are gas- or nitro-powered versions. For this reason, electric RC boats are a perfect alternative for newcomers to the RC boating hobby: After all, you don’t want to sink a lot of money into the hobby if you’re not yet sure you’ll enjoy it.

Don’t think, though, that just because electric RC boats are more affordable and easier to operate that they’re not fun. In fact, the opposite is true. Consider this: Even basic, affordable electric RC boats can travel from 15 to 20 miles-per-hour. That’s pretty fast, especially if you’re new to the hobby.

You’ll be surprised at how quickly an electric RC boat can zip across, say, your home’s swimming pool even when it’s only traveling 15 miles-per-hour. During your first few runs, you might even think your electric RC boat is moving too quickly.

Of course, there are some drawbacks to buying an electric RC boat. First, you’ll have to worry about batteries. It’s no fun to have your batteries run out of juice during the middle of an RC boating run. Secondly, while electric RC boats are more than quick enough for beginners, they can’t muster the same high levels of speed as can gas- and nitro-powered RC boats.

When shopping for an RC boat, consider buying an electric version if you’re new to the hobby. It’s a great way to learn the ins and outs of RC boating.