I think it really depends on what you are used to and what you want to do with it. For reference the Rustler 4x4 is almost 100% identical to the Slash but has a shorter wheelbase. This means more twitchy handling, but if you want to do flips or stunts the shorter wheelbase is good for that. Out of the box they are kind of slow (all brushed models) So if you plan on running on the streets often it would get boring very fast. You can get them up in to the 20-30mph range with larger pinion gears on the motor but then the motor overheats during extended use...
The plus side is that brushed models are light and fun to drive. They take a beating and keep on going. These lighter trucks are great for jumping around in the dirt. We have an 6s Arrma Kraton that does a legit 60+mph (GPS confirmed by yours truly), but we also have a brushed Slash LCG that is lots of fun to drive and jump. It has a more realistic feel not being crazy powerful as the power matches the scale size better. Plus it does not break EVER other models that go too fast break constantly. I really thought the brushed Slash would be too boring, but we have lots of fun with it.
Don't get me wrong I'll drive the 6s Kraton over the brushed Slash any day because I am a power/speed junkie. As a starter vehicle the brushed models are not all bad.