The Tamiya tanks are more robust model kits that must be assembled. Their suspensions act and work just like the real tanks for the most part. While they don't shoot bbs or smoke, they have superior sounds, the barrel recoils and a laser tag system is available for competing with your buddies. Spend some time perusing the forum and you'll see why so many like the Tamiya tanks. Each brand caters to a different segment of the hobby and this place (RCU) is where they merge. Plenty of guys own both and like them both. Each has their ups and downs.