If you’re looking to get into RC drifting, then you’ve probably been wondering which is better; brushed vs brushless RC drift cars? Both have their pros and cons, but which one is ultimately better for this purpose? In this article, we’ll break down the differences between brushed and brushless drift cars so that you can make an informed decision about which type of car is right for you.
Pro Tip #1: Brushless motors are better than brushed motors.
That doesn’t mean brushed RC drift cars aren’t any fun or considered cheap.
Pro Tip #2: If you are a beginner you can buy an RC drift car with a brushed motor. It will still perform very well. However, if you are looking for a pro RC drift car, make sure it has a brushless motor.
What is the difference between a brushed and brushless RC Motor?
The answer to this question is twofold. First, let’s discuss the difference between brushed and brushless RC motors.
- Brushed motors have a commutator and brushes that make contact with the spinning armature to create electricity.
- Brushless motors do not have brushes; instead, they have fixed magnets in the motor’s rotor.
The second difference is in terms of efficiency.
- Brushed motors are less efficient than brushless motors because the brushes create friction and cause the motor to heat up.
- Brushless motors are more efficient because they do not have brushes and do not create as much friction or heat.
Performance-wise, brushless motors are superior to brushed motors. They are more powerful and can reach higher speeds. However, they are also more expensive.
If you want to learn how drift, check out our post how to drift RC cars.
Brushed vs Brushless RC drift Cars: Key Differences
There are several key differences between brushed and brushless RC drift cars.
The Motor
The most important difference is the type of motor used. Brushed motors are less expensive, but they require more maintenance and can be less powerful than brushless motors. Brushless motors are more expensive, but they’re much more durable, offer more power, and last longer.
With electric RC car motors, you don’t typically replace the parts inside the motor. When I talk about brushed motors being higher maintenance, I mean you will have purchase a new motor, remove the old motor, and install the new motor.
This isn’t something you have to do all the time, but if you notice your car slowing down or not performing like it used to either the motor or the battery is going out.
Electronic Speed Controller
The type of controller used can also be a key difference between brushed and brushless RC cars. Brushed RC cars typically use a basic ESC (electronic speed controller), while brushless RC cars often use a more sophisticated ESC that can offer more features and better performance. Check out our post on sensored ESCs and brushless motors to learn more.
Efficiency
Efficiency is another key difference between brushed and brushless RC cars. Brushed RC cars are typically less efficient than brushless RC cars, meaning that they’ll use more battery power and won’t be able to run as long on a single charge. Lower efficiency means less power when comparing brushed vs brushless motors.
Pro tip #3: Brushless motors are more efficient.
Control
In general, brushless RC cars offer more power and better performance than brushed RC cars. However, brushed RC cars can be easier to control and may be a better choice for beginners. It really comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in an RC car.
Brushed motors will be easier to control because they don’t have as much power or torque. The lower powered brushed motors could help beginners learn how to drive easier.
However, many brushless motors and ESCs can be adjusted to output 50% power to help beginners get the feel of their new car.
What’s Better for Drift RC Cars Brushed or Brushless Motors?
There are two types of RC cars: brushed and brushless. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which is better for you.
Brushed RC Drift Cars
Advantages:
- Brushed RC cars are typically less expensive than brushless models.
- they are great for beginners and entry level RC enthusiasts.
Disadvantages:
- The biggest downside to brushed motors on RC drift cars is that they wear out faster. The brushes will eventually wear out and the motor will need to be replaced.
- brushed motors on drift cars also tend to be slower than brushless motors.
Brushless RC Drift Cars
Advantages:
- Brushless RC drift cars are more powerful and can be customized with a sensored motor and ESC.
- They’re also more durable since there are no brushes to wear out.
- Brushless motors are more efficient, so they run cooler and last longer on a single battery charge
Disadvantages:
- The biggest downside to brushless RC cars is that they’re usually more expensive than brushed models.
- They can also be more difficult to maintain since there are more parts that can fail.
So, which is better?
Ultimately, it depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and customizable RC drift car, then brushless is the way to go.
However, if you’re on a budget or prefer an easier-to-maintain vehicle, then brushed is the better option.
Whichever you choose, make sure to do your research and buy from a reputable dealer to ensure that you get a quality product.
Are Brushless RC Drift Cars Faster Than Brushed? (and Why?)
The answer to this question is a resounding yes! A brushless RC motor is definitely faster than a brushed RC motor.
Here’s why:
A brushless RC motor will typically run on a LiPo battery where brushless motors often use NiMh batteries. A 2S LiPo battery will be 7.4 volts.This is compared to a 2S NiMh battery running at 7.2 volts.
Not only is the LiPo battery higher in voltage, but the motor is more effecient. These two variables equal more power and higher top speeds.
A brushless motor does not have brushes inside the motor body which means that there are no parts inside that can wear out or get jammed with dirt and debris. This makes the brushless motor much more efficient and allows it to reach higher speeds and last longer before re-charging.
Another reason that brushless RC motors are faster is because they don’t have to work as hard as brushed motors. A brushed motor has to constantly push against the brushes in order to spin. This resistance slows down the motor and causes it to heat up. A brushless RC motor doesn’t have this problem because there are no brushes to push against.
Finally, brushless motors can be paired with a programmable ESC and sensored motor. This will allow you greater control over the throttle curves, boost, and punch settings on your ESC.
So, if you’re looking for a faster RC car, go with a brushless motor. You won’t be disappointed!
The Verdict: Brushed vs Brushless Motor for Drift RC Cars
There is no doubt that brushless motors are more powerful than brushed motors. They can provide more torque, speed, and can have customized throttle profiles. These three aspects make brushless motors perfect for drifting.
However, brushless motors are also more expensive. A brushless RC drift car will require a more expensive ESC than a brushed RC drift car.
The type of battery you use will also affect the performance of your RC drift car. LiPo batteries are the best choice for brushless motors because they provide more power and last longer than NiMH batteries.
So, which is better? If you are looking to win races and drift like a pro, then brushless is the way to go. However, if you are just starting out or on a budget, then brushed is the better option.
