Key Takeaways
- The Stampede XL-5 Brushed 2WD is the straightforward starting point, with a battery and USB-C charger included.
- The Stampede HD BL-2S Brushless 2WD keeps the rear-wheel-drive layout and adds brushless power; battery and charger are not included.
- The Stampede VX3 Brushless 4X4 drives all four wheels for added traction and comes with a Velineon VX3 ESC and V3200 motor. Battery and charger are not included.
- 2WD drives two wheels; 4WD drives all four. Choose based on the surfaces you expect to tackle and the equipment you already own.
What makes a 1/10-scale monster truck?
Want a truck that takes uneven ground in its stride? A 1/10-scale monster truck typically pairs a tall stance, big tyres and useful ground clearance to help it roll over bumps and obstacles. The Stampede is Traxxas’ long-running take on that go-anywhere format, with versions ranging from brushed 2WD to brushless 4X4.
The first decision is often 2WD or 4WD. A 2WD model sends power to two wheels; on these Stampedes, that means the rear wheels. It has a simpler driven-wheel layout and a lively feel. A 4WD model sends power to all four wheels, which can help maintain traction when the surface is loose or uneven.
Next, consider the motor system. A brushed motor uses physical brushes to transfer electrical current inside the motor. A brushless motor uses electronic switching instead, so there are no motor brushes to wear. The ESC, or electronic speed control, regulates the power sent from the battery to the motor.
Battery terminology is worth knowing too. NiMH is a rechargeable nickel-metal-hydride battery type; LiPo means lithium polymer, a rechargeable battery chemistry commonly used in RC models. Always check the model’s product information and instructions for battery compatibility before choosing a pack.
First Truck Territory: Stampede XL-5 Brushed 2WD
Looking for a ready-to-run start without sourcing the drive battery and charger separately? The Stampede XL-5 Brushed 2WD is the most straightforward option in this guide.
This version combines an XL-5 ESC with a Titan 550 brushed motor. Its box includes a 7-cell NiMH battery and a 4A USB-C charger, so the main drive battery and charging equipment are part of the package. USB-C is a familiar, convenient connection; check the product page for the complete list of anything else needed to run the model.
The XL-5 uses a TQ 2-channel radio: one channel controls steering, the other throttle. A clipless body uses latches rather than traditional body clips, making it quicker to remove the shell when you need access to the chassis.
Who does it suit? It’s a sensible choice if you’re new to the hobby, prefer a brushed setup, or want the convenience of a supplied battery and charger. Brushed motors are a proven, easy-to-understand starting point; their brushes are the wearing parts that distinguish them from brushless motors.
Pro tip: Check the model’s listing and instructions for any additional items you need before your first drive. “With battery and charger” refers to the included drive battery and charging equipment, not necessarily every item required to operate the radio.
The Step Up: Stampede HD BL-2S Brushless 2WD
Want brushless power, but prefer to keep the Stampede’s 2WD layout? The Stampede HD BL-2S Brushless 2WD is the next step.
Its BL-2S brushless system replaces the brushed motor arrangement with a brushless power system, while retaining rear-wheel drive. With no motor brushes to wear, brushless operation changes the maintenance picture; the ESC still regulates how electrical power reaches the motor. The model also has a clipless body for fast access to the chassis.
There’s an important difference to account for when planning your setup: the battery and charger are not included with this model. That gives you a chance to select your charging equipment and a compatible battery, but it also means you should check those requirements before buying.
Who is it for? Choose the BL-2S if you want the brushless option but don’t need four driven wheels. It suits drivers who enjoy the classic 2WD format and are comfortable choosing a separate battery and charger.
Pro tip: Don’t assume a battery or charger from another RC model is automatically suitable. Confirm compatibility against the product details and instructions for this exact Stampede.
The Full Package: Stampede VX3 Brushless 4X4
Want brushless power and four driven wheels? The Stampede VX3 Brushless 4X4 brings both together.
This model pairs the Velineon VX3 ESC with a V3200 motor and a TQi Sport 2-channel radio. Its 4WD drivetrain sends power to all four wheels, giving it a traction-focused advantage over the two 2WD models when the ground is loose or uneven. It also has a clipless body.
The battery and charger are not included, so factor those into your choice and check the product information for compatible equipment. If you’re moving up from a simpler setup, remember that a four-wheel-drive chassis has more driven components than a 2WD layout. Matching the model to your intended terrain and being ready to look after its drivetrain are both part of choosing well.
Who does it suit? The VX3 is the Stampede for drivers who want the combination of brushless power and four-wheel traction. It’s a strong option when your driving spots regularly include surfaces where extra grip matters.
Which Stampede suits you?
Still weighing up the three? Start with how you want to drive and what you need in the box.
- Choose the XL-5 Brushed 2WD if you want a brushed model and value having a 7-cell NiMH battery and 4A USB-C charger included.
- Choose the BL-2S Brushless 2WD if you want a brushless system but are happy with rear-wheel drive and selecting a battery and charger separately.
- Choose the VX3 Brushless 4X4 if you want brushless power with four-wheel drive for added traction, and are prepared to source a battery and charger.
- Check the equipment you already own. Battery type and charger compatibility matter; don’t choose by motor label alone.
- Think about the ground. For loose or uneven surfaces, 4WD traction may be the deciding factor. If your priority is a straightforward 2WD setup, compare the XL-5 and BL-2S packages.
Upgrades and spares worth knowing about
What happens after the first few runs? Bodies and accessories can personalise your truck, while having the right spares information makes it easier to identify parts for the exact version you own.
- Green bodyshell: The Traxxas Stampede painted green bodyshell is listed as fitting Stampede and Stampede VXL models. Check fitment for your exact version before ordering.
- Lighting: The Traxxas Stampede 2WD LED light set is a lighting option for compatible 2WD Stampede models.
- Telemetry mounting: The Stampede 2WD telemetry expander mount is listed for 2WD Stampede models. Check what additional compatible telemetry equipment you may need.
- 4X4 parts: For the VX3, browse the dedicated Stampede 4X4 Brushless spares category.
A final fitment check saves frustration. Stampede versions can use different parts, so match the model name and product code before ordering. If you’re unsure which listing applies, AT Models’ specialist knowledge and after-sales support can help you make sense of the options.
Ready to choose your truck or find the right replacement part? Explore the Traxxas spares hub and discover what’s available for your Stampede.
Meta title: Stampede Buyer's Guide: XL-5, BL-2S & VX3 Meta description: Compare the Traxxas Stampede XL-5, BL-2S and VX3 4X4. Understand the drive systems, included equipment and which model suits you. Tags: Traxxas Stampede, RC monster trucks, brushed vs brushless, RC car buyer’s guide Category: Cars
