If you are in the market for an RC excavator and have settled on these two, you will surely have a question that runs through your mind: What is this worth spending money on? The answer will be totally dependent on what you intend to do with the machine and who you are as a buyer. This disassembly is offered to help you make a fair comparison and choose the model you will really want, rather than just being instructed that one model is better than the other.
What You Are Actually Comparing
On the surface, both the Huina 1594 and the Kabolite K5901 seem pretty serious machines. Both are metallic, both are digging, and both are ready to run. However, beyond the surface, they are in entirely different brackets.
The Huina 1594 is an electric RC excavator that is 1:14 scale and based on the actual Volvo EC950EL excavator. It has the lightweight ABS plastic as in the popular Huina 1580 and 1593 models, but features full metal tracks, gearbox, bucket, and servo actuators. It comes equipped with four attachments, including a rock breaker, timber grabber, standard bucket, and grab bucket. The remote is a 2.4GHz with up to 100m range (depending on model) and will last between 40-50 mins per charge.
The Kabolite K5901, however, is a 1:18 scale excavator that takes the next step in almost every category. The body is 99% metal, 9.9kg, and it has an electronic lifting system that is used to move the boom, stick, and bucket, which would be noticeable to anyone who saw it in action, as it produces a much smoother and more powerful action than the Huina. In addition, it provides a planetary reduction gearbox for sure navigation, a 360-degree turret rotation, and three interchangeable attachments: an electric hammer, ripper, and electric claw. It runs for 40-60 minutes and has fairly good, responsive control with the FlySky 2.4GHz radio.
Build Quality and Digging Power
This is where the two machines separate clearly.
Huina 1594: Solid, Capable, and Accessible
The 1594 was meant to be the strongest Huina that can access in the electric range. It is more powerful than the previous 1593 model with a stronger boom servo, and its digging capabilities are close to those of the more expensive 1580. The metal track system is a great choice for traction and has a sound that is very realistic. A lot of hobbyists who use them really like the sound they make as they travel. The upper body is constructed partly using plastic, which is intended, not a shortcut. Helps to lower the overall weight of the machine, resulting in easier mobility and less strain on the motors.
If you're looking for a robust and realistic digging machine on a not-too-expensive budget, you won't be disappointed with the 1594. It's also well supported, and upgrades and all the necessary spare parts are available at Heavy Duty RC when you're planning for the future.
Kabolite K5901: Premium Performance for Serious Enthusiasts
No tricks are used with the K5901. The almost all-metal construction (9.9 kg) provides the machine with a presence and stability that is not even close to a plastic-bodied machine. The electronic lifting system equates to smoother and more controlled arm movements, which is much more ideal for the more precise digging tasks and for display purposes. A planetary gearbox also adds to its ability to perform on different terrain.
The tool swapping system is a real time saver. It can convert this machine from a digger to a complete worksite recreation tool by switching between an electric hammer, ripper, and electric claw. With realism and versatility in mind, the K5901 has you covered
Who Should Buy the Huina 1594?
If you're new to RC excavators or want a reliable machine that you won't need to be an expert to operate and maintain, then the Huina 1594 is the perfect option. It's also a more popular choice for younger fans or those looking for a solid machine that they can upgrade over time. It is a more affordable option for those looking to enter the serious RC building equipment arena and is considered to be a lower-risk option. Looking for reliability, digging ability, and community support? It's the 1594 machine for you!
Who Should Buy the Kabolite K5901?
The Kabolite K5901 is designed for the more advanced hobbyist who is familiar with what he or she desires and isn't afraid to pay for it. If you already have an entry-level RC excavator and are looking for the next level of performance with the best attachments and smoothest running, this would be the next step. It's also a better pick for enthusiasts and for people who shoot RC footage or create intricate worksite scenes, where the realism of the motion and weight of the machine is an important factor.
Final Verdict
It is not possible to say which of the two models is objectively superior. The Huina 1594 is the better value for the beginning player or for a player on a budget with a need for a truly good machine. For the true excavator maniac, the Kabolite K5901 is definitely worth the additional money to get the closest thing to a real excavator in mini form!
The models are available from Heavy Duty RC, an official and authorized dealer of Huina Toys and one of the largest stockists in the world. They have it in the USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe. It ships quickly, import taxes will be paid, and if needed, help will be provided in buying parts or getting directions.
Select a machine to match RC Journey. Whatever you do, you won't be disappointed.