If you are searching for ways to improve your RC car or quadcopter, then you have coursed and landed in the right place! One of the best ways to increase the performance of your RC vehicle is to upgrade the motors. Simply looking for a motor does not guarantee that you are getting a model with the right specs and features. You have to know your purpose for your RC vehicle as well as its components to see what motor fits it.
To make researching easier for you, we gathered the best brushless RC motors with a reasonable price tag. Take note of the features that you must watch out for, especially the standard configuration to better understand the labels and the numbers you are looking at.
Our Picks for the Top 8 Best Brushless RC Motors
Get your RC cars and quadcopters competition-ready with only a remarkable brushless RC motor available in the market today. In this list, you will definitely find the motor that will maximize your vehicle’s potential!
- GoolRC 2435 4800KV 4P Sensorless
- 4 poles 12 slot Hi-torque motor design.
- CNC machined 6061 T6 billet alumium heatsink can motor.
- High RPM ABEC5 oversized bearings.
For those who wish for a universally fit motor to power their 1/16 and 1/18 brushless cars, look no further. This GoolRC brushless motor is one of the best choices on the list.
It has a VK rating of 4800 that can be powered by a battery with at least 7.4V up to a maximum of 11.1V. With that, you get a motor that runs at approximately 53,280 RPMs. For a motor, that definitely packs a punch!
The motor is encased in 24-millimetre housing with a can length of 35 millimetres. This can is like no other cheaply manufactured can. It’s built from CNC-machined 6061 Aluminum that optimizes thermal conductivity.
Like the previous motor, this GoolRC also has 4 poles/12 slots that deliver optimum torque. Apart from that, it has bullet connectors that are created to ensure a secure and high-quality connection.
What’s more? At its price point, you already get a sensorless brushless motor plus an electric speed controller that enables you for enhanced speed regulation.
The ESC included in the package uses an advanced software interface that is quick to set up and has updates readily available. It reacts and responds quickly to throttle output, thanks to its high anti-interference capability that blocks external input.
- 4800KV that delivers 53,280 RPMs when powered by 11.1V
- 4 pole/12 slots for optimum torque
- Includes an ESC that delivers accurate throttle linearity and smooth, non-interfered connections
- CNC-machined 6061 Aluminum heatsink for excellent conductivity
- Bullet connector motor plugs to secure connection
- There is no built-in programming method or card included in the package
Bottom Line:
Finally, it has multiple protections for low-voltage, over-heating, as well as throttle signal loss.
2. Crazepony 4pcs EMAX RS2205 2300KV
- High Quality Guarantee: The new standard of EMAX RS2205 2300KV brushless motor is...
- Strong Thrust Power: Produces over +1,000g of thrust using 4S and GF5045BN, is more...
- Well Capability: High N52 Magnets, the highest grade magnets, which is better...
Anyone with enough flying skills to manoeuvre an FPV racing drone quadcopter will feel the difference in experience with this Crazepony brushless motor!
The motor is rated at 2300KV with at least 12.6V to a maximum input voltage of 16.8V. With this, you get a motor that runs at 38,640 RPMs. For a quadcopter, you already get almost the highest speed of a motor with this unit.
It boasts extra-secure dual locks, clockwise and counterclockwise motors. These are easy to install with identifiable motor rotation direction signs and anti-off U-rings for safety and stability.
The 4-pc motors are durable, thanks to their high-quality Japanese NMB bearings and sturdy N52 Neodymium magnets. With its strong magnetic field, there is a reduced internal resistance – resulting in the creation of this beast of a motor.
In addition to that, your quadcopter maintains its speed because of the strong magnetic field. There is also better acceleration as well as stopping power, which means you maintain the rpm delivered by the KV rating at its used power voltage.
- Highly rated KV at 2300 which delivers an above-average of 38,640 RPMs at the maximum required voltage
- Durable housing and bearings
- Secured CW and CCW prop nuts
- Enhanced safety and stability with anti-off U-ring
- Thrust weighs in at more than 1,000g demonstrating strength and sturdiness
- Quite heavy at 30 grams with wires
Bottom Line:
Finally, the fins allow cool air from the base of the motor to pass through the coils as it spools up for a higher efficiency rating and long-lasting use. Indeed, this motor promises strength and durability compared to other 2205 brushless motors with its thrust weight of over 1,000g.
3. Goolsk SURPASS High Performance 2216 880KV 14 Poles
- 14 Pole 12 slot hi-torque motor design.
- CNC machined 6061 T6 billet aluminum heatsink can.
- High purity copper windings maximizes efficiency, High RPM ABEC5 oversized bearings.
This small yet power-packed Goolsk with 14 poles and a rated constant velocity of 880KV should deliver you steady, balanced power for long-lasting use!
At its KV rating, the motor can run at a minimum of 6,160 RPMs to a maximum of 15,840 RPMs when 18V is applied to power it. If your propellers are at 11*8.5 or 10*7 or 12*6, then you can be confident to experience the full potential of the brushless motor.
This motor has 14 poles, which means it is at least 3 times more efficient and delivers higher torque compared to 4-pole motors. The poles work in 12 slots to accommodate the turns each pole makes around the tooth. It also has a maxed energy conversion with super-thin stator laminations of 0.2mm.
Aside from all that, it is encased in a CNC-machined 6061 Aluminum heatsink can for balanced thermal conductivity. With its golden banana connector, you can rest assured that the connection is fastened and secured. Both work together with their super-high current silicon wires.
- Propeller compatibility – 11×8.5, 10×7, and 12×6
- Made from 6061 Aluminum heatsink can for efficient thermal conductivity
- Has an efficient ratio of pole/slot which stabilizes the gearing of the motor
- Silicon wiring and banana plugs to secure connection
- Full potential energy conversion with super-thin stator laminations at 0.2mm
- Low constant velocity rating of 880KV at the maximum power of 18V
Bottom Line:
Above all else, this Goolsk Surpass promises a precisely balanced and smooth rotor that offers reliability and, at the same time, delivers the maximum RPM.
- Jrelecs 3674 1900KV 4 Poles Sensorless
- Hi-torque and hi-efficiency, Removable/Replaceable rotor
- High RPM ABEC5 oversized bearings, High purity copper windings maximizes efficiency
- CNC machined 6061 T6 billet aluminum heatsink can, Precision engineered for maximum...
If you are looking for the best brushless RC motor for your ⅛ RC car or monster truck, take a look at this first product on the list. This Jrelecs motor is a 4-pole sensorless brushless motor that has a 1900KV rating. With that rated constant velocity, it promises a balanced speed for long-lasting use.
For its price, it is indeed worth every cent you invest in it. Many amateurs and professional RC racers trust the brand for rendering the best units that promise long-lasting use at affordable prices.
The Jrelecs motor is encased in a 36-millimetre heatsink housing at 74-millimetre length. It has a KV rating of 1900 that runs at less than 26 maximum voltage. With these specifications, the unloaded motor runs from 49,400 up to 50,000 RPMs.
In addition to that, it has 4 poles, which means it has a higher ratio of torque per horsepower. The efficiency of a higher torque is delivered by its 16-millimetre shaft.
It is a sensorless brushless motor that is lighter in weight, less complicated, and not as prone to failure compared to other sensored motors. This motor is a universal fit. However, it best fits all ⅛ brushless cars. It offers a multi-mounted system using M3 screws.
- High KV rating and RPM
- 6061 Aluminum heatsink can that delivers good thermal conductivity
- Higher torque per horsepower with its 4 poles
- Universal fit for all ⅛ cars and allows for multi-mounting system
- There is no electric speed controller included in this package
Bottom Line:
To ensure an efficient electrical connection, the motor uses 4-millimetre golden banana plugs for all three wires.
5. DYS D3548 1100KV Outrunner
If you are looking for the best brushless motor for an RC plane, then you are looking at it already! Outrunners are particularly created for electrically-propelled RC model aircraft, and this DYS brushless motor outrunner offers efficient and enhanced stable performance.
The peak voltage range is at least 11.1 up to 18.5 volts, which would mean 12.6 up to 21 volts on a fully charged LiPo battery pack. By proper calculation, the 1100KV rating can realistically and reliably be handled by 3 to 5 LiPo battery cells.
Depending on the particular set-up, the wattage of this motor can achieve at least 1500 to 1800 Watts. Apart from that, the RPM is about 12,200 up to 20,350 RPM.
The motor has dimensions of 35 millimetres in diameter and 48 millimetres in length with an overall weight of 156 grams. Apart from that, it has a pull of 2150 grams.
- Motor turns at 20,350 RPM at 1110KV rating
- Delivers 21V on a fully charged LiPo battery pack
- Balanced pull at 2150 grams
- Can fly at 100mph if applied with the 70A ESC
- Made of heavy-duty material which increased its weight to 156 grams
Bottom Line:
With at least one 4S battery, an ESC that can handle 70A and a 10×8 propeller, the motor allows the RC plane to fly in excess of 100mph.
- GoolRC 3650 3930KV 4P Sensorless
A beast of a monster RC truck needs a brushless motor that can deliver high and balanced speed to conquer the dirt tracks! This GoolRC 3650 motor is a suitable alternative for the best Traxxas motor.
It was created for 1/10 radio-controlled cars, especially for those off-road trucks. Also, it boasts of its 3930KV rating that is suitable for a minimum of 7.4V to a maximum of 11.1. With that, you get a motor that runs at 43,623 RPMs.
In addition to all that, you can rest assured that the pole/slot ratio of the motor is better than a motor with a 6/12 or ½ ratio. This motor has 4 poles and 12 slots, which means it has a lower value ratio of ⅓. With that, you get higher KV for the same number of turns around each tooth!
Let’s talk about its construction materials. It is encased in a durable CNC-machined 6061 Aluminum heatsink for ensured thermal conductivity with measurements of 36 millimetres in diameter that stretches at 50 millimetres in length.
Apart from that, the windings are made to maximize efficiency. Thanks to the usage of high-purity copper material! The stators installed in the motor unit are made of ultra-thin laminations at about 0.35 millimetres.
- Universally fit for all 1/10 brushless cars
- Allow for a multi-mounted system using M3 screws
- High KV rating of 3930 that delivers 43,623 RPMs at 11.1V
- Lower value of pole/slot ratio at ⅓ which enhances KV rating
- No noteworthy downsides
Bottom Line:
Since the motor is sensorless, take note of its maximum current of 60A and maximum watts of 820. Make sure the ESC you will obtain with this motor is suitable for those numbers to prevent overworking the motor, which could cause serious damage.
- FastWin 2845 3930KV 4P Sensorless
In need of a sensorless brushless motor with ESC for 1/14, 1/16, or 1/18 RC cars? Worry no more! This FastWin motor presents an ideal match for you.
It has a KV rating of 3930 with a maximum allowable voltage of 13V. With this, you get a motor that turns 51,090 RPMs. The motor is encased in a CNC-machined 6061 Aluminum heatsink that optimizes thermal conductivity. It measures 28 millimetres in diameter and stretches 45 millimetres in length.
The best thing about this motor is that it already comes with an ESC. At its price point, there is nothing more you would ask for! The ESC is made of the highest quality of components that delivers only high-efficiency operation.
It also uses multiple protections to ensure long-lasting use. From low voltage cut-off protection to overheating and throttle signal loss protection. In addition to that, it has an internal timing that can be easily changed whenever you wish to use the ESC for other motors.
- The package comes with an ESC
- Multiple protection enabled ESC that is easily programmed for different motor connections
- High KV rating at 3930 with a maximum voltage of 13 which delivers 51,090 RPMs
- Uses durable CNC-machined 6061 Aluminum heatsink can
- Nothing to mention
Bottom Line:
The ESC uses 2-3s LiPo batteries, equivalent to 4-6s NiMH batteries. It has a burst current of 120A, which is 10S, so make sure you do not exceed those variables to prevent damage.
- Axial AX24007 55T Rock Crawler Electric
- Axial 55 Turn Rock Crawler Electric Motor.
- Designed exclusively for RC Rock Crawlers.
- Provides more low end pull and slower speed while crawling than stock 27 turn motors
You’ll always feel some kind of pleasure as you watch your RC rock crawler conquer the roughest, toughest terrains and other off-road obstacles. Power your rock crawler with only the best!
Included in this list of only the best brushless motors is this Axial electric motor specifically made for RC rock crawlers.
The motor is encased in durable housing that is 36 millimetres in diameter and 50.75 millimetres in length. With an overall weight of 164 grams or 5.8 ounces, this electric motor packs enough power while at the same time maintaining its lightweight.
Using an input voltage of at least 4 plus cells, which is 12VDC, you get an extremely stable power with very low ripple and have no switching frequencies. Take note, you’ll have less punch and speed with a NiCd 7.4V battery than you will with a 3S LiPo battery.
The motor is easy to equip in your RC vehicle. It delivers a low-end pull and slower wheel speed while crawling.
- No soldering is needed as it comes with pre-installed bullet connectors
- Lightweight at 164 grams
- Wire length of 115 millimetre
- Low-end pull and slower wheel speed for crawling
- Missing speed control
Bottom Line:
The lower the number of turns, the slower it is and the higher the torque. Because torque is so important in a crawler, this 55T electric motor should be efficient enough.
Features to Look for Before Buying
Before making a purchase, take a look at these specifications to help you determine the best brushless RC motor for your car or quadcopter.
- KV Rating
The KV rating is represented by the number of revolutions per minute that the motor delivers when voltage is applied. In addition to that, there should be no load attached.
If speed is your priority, choose a motor with a higher KV for faster rotation. One more thing that you should be aware of is that the motor’s KV is constant, whereas the RPM is variable. This means that when you change the voltage, the RPM also changes.
When you are comparing motors, it is best to look at the KV more than the RPM.
2. Wattage Rating
Always watch out for the wattage rating. It indicates the rate at which your motor draws electrical energy from the battery to convert it into mechanical energy and heat. With this, you have to consider the efficiency and heat generated.
Since wattage is used to rate the motor power, remember that it must not exceed the maximum to prevent working the motor too hard.
3. Speed Control
This control allows you to precisely regulate the speed of an electric motor. Electronic speed control, or ESC, is the common electronic circuit used for brushless motors. This enables you to reverse the motor and allow dynamic braking.
4. Sensored and Sensorless
The only difference between the sensor system and the sensorless system is their precision of transmitting data to the speed control.
An advantage that sensor systems present is the accuracy of their response to all speed changes, whereas sensorless motors are merely able to estimate the rotor position. With that in mind, it is only estimating whether it is delivering the right speed.
5. Rated Amperage
When it comes to amperage, you should be aware that exceeding the amp rating of a brushless RC motor poses the risk of overheating. Not even the best brushless motors can handle such an increased rated amperage.
Since amperage refers to the maximum current flow that the motor draws, choose a motor that has a rating that suits your application for it.
For instance, a motor with 300W and a maximum voltage of 11.1 should have a rated amperage of 27.03. How did we arrive at that answer? Simply divide the wattage by the voltage.
This amp rating tells you that the ESC you choose for your motor must have a rating higher than 27.03A. If your ESC has a lower amp rating, it will hold back the maximum potential of your motor.
6. Efficiency Rating
The efficiency rating is the one that you see with a percentage (%) label. This entails the ratio of how much of the motor’s electrical input power has the capacity to convert into mechanical output power. Aside from that, it also displays the amount of energy lost in the form of heat.
And the less efficient a motor is, the greater the heat is produced. With this, the motor is at risk of damage in its parts, which greatly reduces performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will motors last?
Brushless motors, in general, have a long life expectancy. The best brushless RC motors should last tens of thousands of hours on average. This is because there are no brushes that wear out, unlike the brushed motors that can only last up to a thousand to three thousand hours.
2. How do you test It?
If your motor is spinning but constantly overheats, you can run a dry test to understand the issue. Simply disconnect the motor from the electronic speed controller and wind it up using a variable speed drill.
Run it at full speed for a couple of minutes until you hear a strange noise or the motor gets heated. If this happens, it means the winding is shorted, or there must be a loose magnet.
Aside from that, you can use a voltmeter to know if your motor wires have problems. Otherwise, if the meter does not read an open circuit, your motor is broken.
3. Can you run LiPo batteries?
Given that you are going to use 2-cell LiPo batteries that match the right ESC, then the answer is a yes. You can use that kind of battery on the best RC brushed motor and feel a little boost using them more than NiMH packs.
Make sure you have the LVC on the speed control turned on to watch over the voltage being delivered by the battery.
Final Words
One of the most important features to look at when buying is the standard ratings to ensure you are obtaining the right components and making the engine work.
Clearly, the best brushless RC motor means the right KV rating with the required power supply or voltage, as well as the suitable ESC. There is no one perfect product for a particular vehicle. It depends on the capacity of your RC vehicle as well as your personal preferences.