Chad Valley Radio Controlled Excavator – Digger Toy Review {2025 update}

In my last post I mentioned that our family had been lucky enough to become part of the Chad Valley Play Panel, and therefore Freddie and Sasha have been given the chance to try out some of the wonderful toys that Chad Valley has to offer through Argos. We were sent a large Chad Valley Radio Controlled Excavator for Freddie (although Sasha has thoroughly enjoyed playing with it too!), and I was keen to see how our vehicle-mad 5 year old would find it as he is utterly obsessed with tractor toys, digger toys, and anything like it!

Before F got hold of his excavator I decided to unbox it and give it a spin myself, as I wanted to make sure that it really was easy to use and manoeuvre- I’m sometimes wary of remote control toys for young children as they’re not always child-user-friendly, but thankfully on this occasion my worries were unfounded when it came to this digger toy!

The excavator is a whopping 70cm high, with a very large digger arm and scoop that are controlled by the remote control. The remote control also moves the excavator forwards and backwards, as well as turning it left and right depending on where the child wants it to go. 

Freddie soon got the hang of using the control, and was able to direct the excavator and start incorporating it in his ‘building site’ games- picking up Lego and Duplo bricks being the favourite! I was concerned that the remote control might be a bit too big and chunky for little hands at first, but actually it made it easier for Freddie to use, as he could put it on his lap or on the floor and direct the buttons really easily. So if you’re looking for a digger toy for a 2 year old or 3 year old, I’d say that they would be okay managing this.

My only ‘criticism’ if I had to be really fussy is that I wish the remote control for this digger toy was wireless (I know, get me and my new-found love of all things tech!) rather than on a lead, as although it didn’t get in the way too much I occasionally had to step in and prevent it from getting tangled. I’m sure though an older child would easily be able to sort this out themselves. 

I would happily buy this though for a digger toy -loving child for Christmas or Birthday, as I think it takes imaginative construction play to the next level- something cool for children who have perhaps started to outgrow their more ‘babyish’ cars or digger toys.

Since giving the excavator house-room, it’s been played with pretty much every day, and we’ve had one very happy Freddie!

FAQs: Chad Valley Radio Controlled Excavator

Q: Is the Chad Valley Radio Controlled Excavator suitable for toddlers?
A: While it’s one of the more interactive digger toys for toddlers, I personally think it’s best suited for children aged 3 years and up, due to the remote control features, although like I said, a 2 year old could probably manage and grow into it. 

Q: How easy is it for young kids to use the remote control?
A: The remote is simple enough for most young children to use after a bit of practice. Freddie loved operating his own mini digger toy, and the controls are pretty basic – forward, backward, left, and right, with a button to lift or lower the arm.

Q: Does the excavator have a working scoop?
A: Yes! The scoop moves up and down with the remote, which makes it feel more realistic. It’s great for light digging in sand or scooping up small toys, which both of my children loved! This makes it perfect for kids who love JCB toys or construction play.

Q: Is this a good option for kids who love construction vehicles?
A: Definitely! Mine are vehicle and construction toy obsessed, so if your child is into building sites, digger toys, or JCB toys, this excavator will be a big hit. It’s a great introduction to radio-controlled vehicles too.

Q: Can the Chad Valley Excavator be used outdoors?
A: Yes, it can be used outdoors on flat surfaces like patios, decking, or firm ground. We use it in the garden all the time. It’s not designed for very rough terrain, but it works well in sandpits or garden play areas, ideal for kids digger toy adventures!

Q: Does it require batteries?
A: Yes, both the excavator and the remote control require batteries (usually AA or AAA), which weren’t included, so it’s worth checking before gifting it.

Q: How does it compare to other kids’ digger toys?
A: The Chad Valley version is a fun and budget-friendly option, and currently retails at £14.99 as of 2025, so I believe that this has actually gone down in price since we first reviewed it! It may not have the heavy-duty features of high-end RC construction toys, but for younger children it’s a fab balance between fun and simplicity.

Updated for 2025

We first reviewed the Chad Valley Radio Controlled Excavator a while back, and it’s still a firm favourite in the world of kids’ digger toys. This post has been updated for 2025 to reflect the latest availability, pricing, and user feedback—so whether you’re buying for a construction-mad toddler or looking for a budget-friendly gift, you’re in the right place!

We have reviewed this toy as part of the Chad Valley Play Panel and were given it in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions our own. 

You can read more of my parenting posts here, and review posts here!

Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.