Side-by-Side Specs
| Spec | Kraton 6S BLX | Kraton 8S BLX |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | 1/8 | 1/5 |
| Motor | Spektrum Firma 2050Kv brushless | Spektrum Firma 800Kv brushless |
| ESC | Spektrum Firma 150A Smart | Spektrum Firma 200A Smart |
| Battery system | 2x 3S LiPo (6S total) | 2x 4S LiPo (8S total) |
| Top speed (stock) | 70+ mph | 80+ mph |
| Wheelbase | 385mm | 595mm |
| Chassis material | Composite fiber | Aluminum + steel |
| Weight (without battery) | ~4.5 kg | ~8.5 kg |
| Street price (approx.) | ~$459 | ~$849 |
| Parts availability | Excellent | Good |
| Beginner-friendly | Moderate | No — advanced only |
Power and Speed: The Real Difference
On paper the gap looks modest — 70 mph vs 80 mph. In reality the experience is completely different. The Kraton 8S's 1/5-scale motor with lower Kv rating generates torque in a different class entirely. It doesn't just go faster — it accelerates faster, more violently, and puts far more stress on every component with every throttle punch.
The 6S delivers strong, predictable power that you can modulate. The 8S will snap the car sideways under full throttle if you're not ready. Experienced drivers love this — beginners crash immediately.
For real-world bashing, the 6S is often more fun because you can push it harder without consequences. The 8S rewards only those who've mastered throttle control at 6S speeds.
Speed tip:
Both models benefit significantly from higher-discharge batteries. With 100C+ packs, the 6S can push 75+ mph. The 8S with 6000mAh 100C packs regularly achieves 85–90 mph on flat pavement in real-world tests.
Size, Weight, and Terrain
The 1/5-scale 8S is a significantly larger vehicle — nearly double the footprint and almost twice the weight. This has practical implications:
- Transport: The 8S barely fits in most car trunks; the 6S fits easily in a backpack carrier.
- Terrain clearance: The 8S actually has better obstacle clearance due to its larger wheels and longer suspension travel.
- Public spaces: The 8S is a genuine safety hazard at speed in crowded areas; the 6S is still very fast but more controllable.
- Indoor: The 8S is unsuitable for any indoor bashing. The 6S can handle large warehouse sessions.
For backyard sessions, parks, and dirt lots, the 6S handles everything without compromise. The 8S truly shines in open fields, empty parking lots, and dedicated RC tracks where its size isn't a liability.
True Cost Comparison
The sticker price difference ($459 vs $849) is just the beginning. The total-cost-of-ownership gap is substantial:
| Cost item | Kraton 6S | Kraton 8S |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle (RTR) | ~$459 | ~$849 |
| 2x quality batteries | ~$100–140 (2x 3S 5000mAh) | ~$180–250 (2x 4S 6000mAh) |
| Smart charger | ~$60–100 | ~$80–120 |
| Typical first-year crash parts | ~$40–80 | ~$80–150 |
| Estimated total year 1 | ~$659–779 | ~$1,189–1,369 |
Parts costs assume average bashing intensity. Speed runs on pavement typically cause fewer crashes but more drivetrain wear.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kraton 6S if:
- ✅ You're upgrading from a 3S or 4S RTR
- ✅ You bash in residential areas, parks, or backyard
- ✅ You want the best parts availability and community support
- ✅ Budget is a consideration — the 6S ecosystem is more affordable
- ✅ You want a manageable car that's still devastatingly fast
- ✅ You're under 18 or share the car with others
Buy the Kraton 8S if:
- ✅ You've been running 6S for 6+ months and want more
- ✅ You do speed runs on open pavement or airstrips
- ✅ You have dedicated RC space (large field, empty lot)
- ✅ $1,200+ total investment doesn't concern you
- ✅ You want the biggest, most capable ARRMA monster truck
- ✅ You have experience with high-power RC vehicle management
What Owners Actually Say
"Had the Kraton 6S for two years before upgrading to the 8S. The 6S is genuinely the better vehicle for 95% of bashing scenarios. I love my 8S but I only take it out when I have real space. The 6S got used every single weekend."
— Amazon review, Kraton 8S owner
"The 8S is legitimately scary fast. I've been driving RC cars for 10 years and the acceleration still catches me off guard. Get the 6S first, master it, THEN upgrade. Skip steps and you'll have an expensive pile of parts."
— RC enthusiast, r/rccars
"I regret buying the 8S before the 6S. The power is incredible but I crashed it 4 times in the first month learning to manage the throttle. The 6S would have taught me those lessons at a much lower repair cost."
— Forum post, arrmaforum.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict
The ARRMA Kraton 6S is the right choice for the vast majority of RC enthusiasts. It delivers world-class monster truck performance in a manageable, cost-effective package with excellent parts support. The 6S is genuinely all the RC car most experienced hobbyists will ever need.
The Kraton 8S is a specialist tool for those who have genuinely conquered 6S and need the next level. Its 1/5-scale presence and raw power are unmatched — but only meaningful if you have the space, skill, and budget to use it properly.