If you’re new to RC cars, boats, planes or drones, you’ve probably come across the terms brushed motor and brushless motor.
But what do they actually mean? Is brushless always better? Why are some RC models cheaper with brushed motors, while others use brushless power systems?
In this beginner-friendly guide, we explain the difference between brushed and brushless RC motors, their advantages and disadvantages, and which type of motor is best for your RC model.
What Is a Brushed Motor?
A brushed motor is a traditional type of electric motor that has been used in RC models for many years.
Inside the motor are small carbon brushes that physically make contact with a rotating part called the commutator. This transfers electrical power to the motor and makes it spin.
The technology is relatively simple, which is one of the reasons brushed motors are still popular for beginner-friendly RC models.
Advantages of Brushed Motors
- Simple technology
- Generally inexpensive
- Easy to use
- Smooth and predictable power delivery
- Good for beginner RC models
- Suitable for slower RC cars, boats and other applications
- Brushed ESCs are generally straightforward to set up
Disadvantages of Brushed Motors
The main disadvantage is wear, because the brushes physically contact the commutator while the motor is running, they gradually wear down. The motor may therefore require maintenance or eventually need to be replaced.
Brushed motors can also produce more electrical and mechanical losses than modern brushless systems, especially when used for high-performance applications.
What Is a Brushless Motor?
A brushless motor removes the physical brushes from the design.
Instead of brushes making electrical contact with the rotating part, the motor uses electronic switching to control the magnetic fields that make the motor spin.
This requires a compatible brushless ESC (Electronic Speed Controller).
Brushless technology has become extremely popular in modern RC because it can deliver high performance with excellent efficiency.
Advantages of Brushless Motors
- Higher performance
- Excellent efficiency
- More power for the size
- Higher potential RPM
- Less mechanical wear
- No brushes to replace
- Excellent for high-performance RC cars, boats, planes and drones
- Often better suited to demanding applications
What Is a Brushless Motor?
A brushless motor removes the physical brushes from the design. Instead of brushes making electrical contact with the rotating part, the motor uses electronic switching to control the magnetic fields that make the motor spin.
This requires a compatible brushless ESC (Electronic Speed Controller).
Brushless technology has become popular in modern RC. Why? Because it can deliver high performance with excellent efficiency.
Advantages of Brushless Motors
- Higher performance
- Excellent efficiency
- More power for the size
- Higher potential RPM
- Less mechanical wear
- No brushes to replace
- Excellent for high-performance RC cars, boats, planes and drones
- Often better suited to demanding applications
Disadvantages of Brushless Motors
- Usually more expensive
- Requires a suitable brushless ESC
- Can be more complex to set up
- High-performance systems can put more stress on drivetrains, batteries and other components
Brushed vs Brushless: What's the Main Difference
The easiest way to remember the difference is:
Brushed = mechanical. Brushless = electronic.
Is Brushless Always Better?
Not necessarily! For a beginner looking for an affordable RC car that is easy to use, a brushed motor can be an excellent choice. For example, a brushed RC crawler can be ideal when you want slow, controlled driving rather than maximum speed. The smooth power delivery can also make it easier to control the vehicle over rocks and obstacles.
A brushless system becomes particularly attractive when you want more speed, acceleration, efficiency or overall performance.
