1/10 scale brushless motor esc combos are a popular choice among hobbyists and enthusiasts who are into remote control cars. These combos offer a powerful and efficient performance that is unmatched by traditional brushed motors. They are ideal for those who are looking for speed, power, and durability in their RC cars.
The brushless motor technology has been around for a while, but it has only recently become popular among RC enthusiasts. The brushless motors use a series of magnets and coils to create a rotating magnetic field that powers the motor. This technology is more efficient than brushed motors because it produces less heat, noise, and friction.
When it comes to purchasing the best 1/10 scale brushless motor esc combo, there are a few things that you should consider. The first thing is the compatibility of the motor and esc with your RC car. You need to make sure that the motor and esc are compatible with the size and weight of your RC car. The second thing is the power and speed of the motor. You need to choose a motor that can provide enough power and speed to meet your needs.
We spent countless hours researching and testing ten 1/10 scale brushless motor esc combos to identify the ones that offer the best performance and value for money. In this article, we will share our findings and help you choose the best combo for your needs.
Getting the most out of your 1/10 scale remote control vehicle means finding the ideal brushless motor and electronic speed control (ESC) combo. For blazing fast speed runs or competitive racing, you need a system that can deliver massive torque and horsepower without overheating. This guide will overview the top motor and ESC combinations for dominating the track or pavement in 1/10 scale RC vehicles.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- 1800-4000KV sensorless brushless motors offer the best balance of speed and power for 1/10 racing.
- 40-120A ESCs can sufficiently handle high current demands from performance motors.
- Short course trucks need torque focused lower KV motors while buggies need higher KV for speed.
- Sensored brushless motors have advantages for acceleration and efficiency.
- Proper gearing ratios are critical to optimizing the powerband.
- Heat dissipation is important for maintaining output during extended runs.
Brushless Motor Types
Here are the main specifications to consider when selecting a racing-level brushless motor:
KV Rating – This indicates RPMs per volt applied. 1800-4000KV is ideal for high speed 1/10 racing. Lower KV provides more torque, higher KV enhances top speed.
Power – Look for at least 500 watts of power capability, with short burst outputs reaching 1000+ watts.
Sensored vs Sensorless – Sensored motors have integrated hall effect sensors for improved low-end torque and efficiency.
Stator Size – Larger 35+ mm stators help dissipate heat better for constant high output.
Number of Poles – Higher pole counts like 14 poles also aid with heat management under heavy loads.
Canning – Canned motors with an aluminum casing run cooler than open models for extended runs.
Electronic Speed Controllers
The ESC regulates power delivery to the motor. For high performance applications, look for:
- Current Rating – 40-120+ amps to handle large brushless motors without throttling.
- ESC Programming – Adjustments for timing, power curves, brake strength, etc.
- BEC Voltage – 5-6V BEC for stable voltage to electronics.
- Cooling – Heat sinks and/or fans for dissipating heat under heavy loads.
- Waterproofing – Protection for all-weather racing conditions.
Vehicle Types
The optimal motor and ESC combo depends partly on your RC vehicle type:
Short Course Truck
- Motor KV: 1800-2800KV
- ESC Amps: 100+ amps
Focuses on torque and stability from lower KV.
Stadium/Dirt Oval Truck
- Motor KV: 2600-3400KV
- ESC Amps: 80+ amps
Needs good mid-range punch and top speed.
Buggy/Truggy
- Motor KV: 3000-4000+KV
- ESC Amps: 80+ amps
Higher KV provides the most straight line speed.
Monster Truck
- Motor KV: 2000-3000KV
- ESC Amps: 100+ amps
Good compromise of stability, acceleration and speed.
Recommended Brushless Motor & ESC Combos
What are Some Good Options for RC cars that are Cheap?
For RC enthusiasts, choosing the right brushless motor ESC combo is crucial for achieving optimal performance. These combos offer a powerful and efficient combination of motor and electronic speed controller, providing the perfect balance of speed, power, and control. With so many options available, it can be challenging to find the best one for your needs. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 1/10 scale brushless motor ESC combos on the market, based on their performance, durability, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, these combos are sure to take your RC experience to the next level.
GoolRC Brushless Motor ESC Combo
If you’re looking for an affordable brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 scale RC car or truck, the GoolRC Upgrade Waterproof 3650 3500KV Brushless Motor with 60A ESC Combo Set could be a great option.
Pros
- The 3.175mm shaft diameter and 4 pole 12 slot high-torque motor design provide plenty of power and speed for your RC vehicle.
- The high purity copper windings maximize efficiency, so you can get the most out of your battery life.
- The built-in 5.5V/3A BEC is a nice added feature for powering your RC car’s electronics.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the motor can be a bit clunky and delayed when starting to move.
- The ESC has been known to fail after a short period of use for some users.
- The throttle response can be a bit laggy at first, but this may be due to programming and can be adjusted with a programming card.
If you’re looking for an affordable brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 scale RC car or truck, the GoolRC Upgrade Waterproof 3650 3500KV Brushless Motor with 60A ESC Combo Set could be a great option. This combo provides plenty of power and speed for your RC vehicle, thanks to its 3.175mm shaft diameter and 4 pole 12 slot high-torque motor design. The high purity copper windings also ensure maximum efficiency, so you can get the most out of your battery life. Additionally, the built-in 5.5V/3A BEC is a nice added feature for powering your RC car’s electronics.
However, some users have reported that the motor can be a bit clunky and delayed when starting to move, which may be a turnoff for some. Additionally, the ESC has been known to fail after a short period of use for some users, which can be frustrating. Finally, the throttle response can be a bit laggy at first, but this can be adjusted with a programming card if needed.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 scale RC car or truck, the GoolRC Upgrade Waterproof 3650 3500KV Brushless Motor with 60A ESC Combo Set is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the potential issues with the motor and ESC, and make sure to adjust the programming as needed to get the best performance out of your RC vehicle.
ARRAROWN Brushless Motor ESC Combo
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performance brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 scale RC car or truck, the ARRAROWN Brushless Motor ESC Combo is a great choice.
Pros
- Excellent performance with high torque and RPM
- Waterproof and dustproof design for all-weather races
- Multiple protection features for safety and durability
Cons
- May require some tuning and adjustment for optimal performance
- Instructions may be difficult to follow for beginners
- May not be compatible with all types of RC cars and trucks
The ARRAROWN Brushless Motor ESC Combo is designed for 1/10 scale RC racing cars and trucks, and it delivers excellent performance with high torque and RPM. The waterproof and dustproof design makes it ideal for all-weather races, and the multiple protection features ensure safety and durability.
However, some users may find that the motor and ESC require some tuning and adjustment for optimal performance, and the instructions may be difficult to follow for beginners. Additionally, the combo may not be compatible with all types of RC cars and trucks.
Overall, the ARRAROWN Brushless Motor ESC Combo is a great choice for RC enthusiasts who want a reliable and high-performance motor and ESC combo for their 1/10 scale RC cars and trucks.
ARRAROWN F540 Brushless Motor and 60A Waterproof ESC Combo
If you’re looking for a brushless motor and ESC combo that’s waterproof and dustproof for all-weather races, the ARRAROWN F540 Brushless Motor and 60A Waterproof ESC Combo is a solid choice.
Pros
- The CNC machined 6061T6 billet aluminum heatsink can helps to maximize efficiency and minimize heat.
- The motor is universal fit and features high purity copper windings for smoothness, reliability, and maximum RPM.
- The 60A brushless ESC is specially designed for RC cars and features excellent start-up, acceleration, and linearity features.
Cons
- The ESC is best used with a 2S battery, so using it with a 3S battery or above could lead to short circuits.
- The included program card doesn’t work for some users, so adjusting braking power and throttle control can be difficult.
- The motor may not be strong enough for some users, even with the required 2S battery.
The ARRAROWN F540 Brushless Motor and 60A Waterproof ESC Combo is a reliable choice for all-weather races. The CNC machined 6061T6 billet aluminum heatsink can helps to maximize efficiency and minimize heat, while the high purity copper windings and precision balanced rotor ensure smoothness, reliability, and maximum RPM. The 60A brushless ESC is specially designed for RC cars and features excellent start-up, acceleration, and linearity features. However, it’s important to note that the ESC is best used with a 2S battery to avoid short circuits, and the included program card may not work for some users. Additionally, some users may find that the motor isn’t strong enough even with the required 2S battery. Overall, the ARRAROWN F540 Brushless Motor and 60A Waterproof ESC Combo is a solid choice for those looking for a brushless motor and ESC combo for all-weather races.
Innovateking Brushless Motor ESC Combo
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performance brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 RC car or truck, the Innovateking Brushless Motor ESC Combo is a great choice.
Pros
- Complete combo set with motor, ESC, and programming card for easy installation and setup
- Excellent start-up, acceleration, and linearity features for a smooth and powerful driving experience
- Multiple protection features to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to your RC car or truck
Cons
- The cooling fan on the ESC can be noisy and may need to be removed for water use
- The instructions can be a bit unclear and may require some trial and error to figure out
- The reverse function may need to be programmed down for smoother operation
The Innovateking Brushless Motor ESC Combo is a great choice for RC enthusiasts looking to upgrade their 1/10 scale vehicles with a high-performance and reliable brushless motor and ESC. The combo set includes everything you need for easy installation and setup, and the motor and ESC deliver excellent performance with smooth and powerful acceleration and linearity features. The combo also includes multiple protection features to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to your RC car or truck. However, the cooling fan on the ESC can be noisy and may need to be removed for water use, and the instructions can be a bit unclear and may require some trial and error to figure out. Additionally, the reverse function may need to be programmed down for smoother operation. Overall, the Innovateking Brushless Motor ESC Combo is a great investment for RC enthusiasts looking to take their 1/10 scale vehicles to the next level.
GoolRC Surpass Hobby F540 4370KV Brushless Motor Waterproof 45A ESC with BEC for 1/10 RC Car Truck
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 scale RC car, the GoolRC Surpass Hobby F540 4370KV Brushless Motor Waterproof 45A ESC with BEC is a solid option that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- The 4 pole 12 slot high-torque motor design provides plenty of power for your RC car.
- The CNC machined 6061 T6 billet aluminum heatsink can ensures efficient cooling.
- The combination sell of motor and ESC is more economical for customers.
Cons
- The ESC may heat up quickly with a 3s battery.
- There may be some cogging during operation.
- The ESC may be underpowered for some users.
The GoolRC Surpass Hobby F540 4370KV Brushless Motor Waterproof 45A ESC with BEC is a great choice for those on a budget who still want a powerful motor for their RC car. The motor design and aluminum heatsink can provide reliable performance, and the combination sell of motor and ESC is a convenient option for customers. However, users should be aware that the ESC may heat up quickly with a 3s battery, and there may be some cogging during operation. Additionally, the ESC may be underpowered for some users, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a purchase.
Castle Creations Sidewinder 4 SCT Edition Combo
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient brushless motor ESC combo for your 1/10 scale short course truck or stadium truck, the Castle Creations Sidewinder 4 SCT Edition Combo is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- CRYO-DRIVE TECHNOLOGY keeps the ESC cool, allowing for longer runs and higher gear ratios.
- Exceptional efficiency thanks to the 4-pole 12-slot motor design and oversized NMB bearings.
- Fully programmable using a Castle Link USB adapter and freely downloadable Castle Link Windows software or the Castle Link App for Android or iOS and a B-LINK Bluetooth Adapter.
Cons
- May require a fan for the motor if running on 3s LiPo.
- Some users have reported issues with the ESC failing prematurely.
- Not the cheapest option on the market.
The Castle Creations Sidewinder 4 SCT Edition Combo is a top-of-the-line option for 1/10 scale short course and stadium trucks. With its powerful brushless motor and efficient ESC, you’ll be able to push your vehicle to the limit without worrying about overheating or premature failure. However, it’s worth noting that the motor may require a fan if running on 3s LiPo, and some users have reported issues with the ESC failing prematurely. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality motor ESC combo and don’t mind paying a premium price, the Sidewinder 4 SCT Edition Combo is definitely worth considering.
GoolRC Brushless Motor ESC Combo Set
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly brushless motor ESC combo set for your 1/10 RC car or truck, the GoolRC combo set is worth considering.
Pros
- The precision-balanced rotor ensures smoothness for reliable and maximum RPM.
- The high-strength magnets provide unmatched brush motor performance, excellent torque, and long run times.
- The direct-solder wiring tabs allow for flexible soldering options.
Cons
- The product recommends using 2S (7.4V) batteries for the unit. Using a mismatched battery may result in the risk of burning out the electronics.
- The throttle response can be glitchy, especially when stopped.
- The product may require some programming to get it to work properly.
The GoolRC combo set boasts a dual-ball bearings design that makes it waterproof and dust-proof, making it ideal for all-weather races. Additionally, it comes with multiple protections, including low voltage cut-off protection for the battery, overheat protection, and throttle signal loss protection.
The set is made of copper material and has a horsepower of 900 watts, a voltage range of 5.5 to 13 volts, and a speed of 50,000 RPM. With a rating of 3.5 and 175 ratings in total, this combo set is a good value for beginners and those looking for a budget-friendly option. However, it may not be the most reliable option for advanced RC enthusiasts who demand more precision and responsiveness from their brushless motor ESC combo set.
Overall, the GoolRC Brushless Motor ESC Combo Set is a decent choice for those who are looking for an affordable option that still delivers good performance.
GoolRC Brushless Motor Waterproof 3650 4300KV Upgrade Brushless Motor with 60A ESC Combo Set for 1/10 RC Car Truck
If you’re looking for an affordable brushless motor and ESC combo for your 1/10 scale RC car, the GoolRC Brushless Motor Waterproof 3650 4300KV Upgrade Brushless Motor with 60A ESC Combo Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The 4 pole 12 slot high-torque motor design provides excellent energy conversion and smooth operation.
- The precision balanced rotor ensures reliability and maximum RPM.
- The multiple protection features including low voltage cut-off protection, over-heat protection, and throttle signal loss protection keep your ESC and motor safe.
Cons
- Some users have reported lag when hitting the throttle.
- There have been reports of the product arriving scratched or damaged.
- It may be difficult to work with for some users.
The GoolRC Brushless Motor Waterproof 3650 4300KV Upgrade Brushless Motor with 60A ESC Combo Set is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable upgrade to their 1/10 scale RC car. The 4 pole 12 slot high-torque motor design and precision balanced rotor provide excellent energy conversion and smooth operation. Plus, the multiple protection features keep your ESC and motor safe. However, some users have reported lag when hitting the throttle and there have been reports of the product arriving scratched or damaged. It may also be difficult to work with for some users. Overall, it’s a good value for the price and worth considering for those on a budget.
Gearing and Setup
Choosing the right gearing ratio is also critical to balancing acceleration with top speed potential from your motor/ESC power system. Use a smaller pinion gear for more torque and a larger spur gear for increased top speed. Monitor motor and battery temperatures and adjust gearing to avoid overheating. Take the time to properly set gear mesh tolerance for efficiency.
Program your ESC for the appropriate use profile (e.g. drag racing, off road, etc.) and make adjustments to fine tune throttle and brake response. If running lower cell count LiPo batteries, set the proper cutoff voltage level on your ESC so the battery is not over-discharged.
With the knowledge of how to properly select compatible brushless motors and ESCs, you can build a custom power system optimized for competitive 1/10 scale RC racing. Just don’t forget proper gearing, programming and setup – those final touches will enable your vehicle to dominate on the track or pavement.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best 1/10 scale brushless motor ESC combo, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Motor Type
There are two main types of brushless motors: sensor and sensorless. Sensor motors provide more precise control and smoother operation, but they tend to be more expensive. Sensorless motors are less expensive and simpler to use, but they may not offer the same level of control.
ESC Type
There are two main types of ESCs: brushed and brushless. Brushed ESCs are simpler and less expensive, but they tend to be less efficient and generate more heat. Brushless ESCs are more efficient and generate less heat, but they tend to be more expensive and more complex to use.
Motor and ESC Compatibility
It’s important to make sure that the motor and ESC you choose are compatible with each other. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations and make sure that the motor and ESC have the same number of poles and are rated for the same voltage and amperage.
Programmability
Some ESCs offer programmability options, which allow you to adjust settings such as throttle response, braking force, and motor timing. This can be useful if you want to fine-tune your setup for specific conditions or preferences.
Brand Reputation
Finally, consider the reputation of the brand you’re considering. Look for brands with a proven track record of quality and reliability. Check reviews and ask for recommendations from other RC enthusiasts to help you make an informed decision.
The world of remote control (RC) racing has been revolutionized by the advent of brushless motors and electronic speed controllers (ESCs). These components have drastically enhanced the performance of RC cars, making them faster, more reliable, and more efficient. This article is a guide to help you find the best 1/10 scale brushless motor ESC combo for high-performance racing.
Understanding the RC Motor and ESC
Before diving into the top picks, it’s essential to understand what an RC motor and an ESC are and how they contribute to your RC car’s performance.
RC Motor
An RC motor is the heart of your RC car. It converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive your vehicle. There are two main types of RC motors: brushed and brushless. Brushless motors, the subject of this article, are more efficient, longer-lasting, and provide more power than their brushed counterparts.
ESC
An electronic speed controller (ESC) controls the motor’s speed and direction. A brushless ESC is designed specifically to work with brushless motors, providing smoother and more efficient operation.
Brushless Motor and ESC Combo
A brushless motor and ESC combo is a package deal, offering both components designed to work together optimally. This compatibility is crucial for achieving the best performance from your RC car.
Top 3 Best 1/10 Scale Brushless Motor ESC Combo
Now that we have a basic understanding of what an RC motor and ESC are, let’s take a look at the top 3 best 1/10 scale brushless motor ESC combo for high-performance racing:
- GoolRC Brushless Motor ESC Combo
- Motor: The GoolRC Brushless Motor is known for its high-efficiency performance and excellent torque. With a 3650 brushless motor, it provides incredible power to your 1/10 scale RC car. The GoolRC motor review is often positive, praising its reliable and consistent performance.
- ESC: GoolRC also offers a compatible ESC, designed to work seamlessly with its brushless motor. This ESC provides smooth and precise control, ensuring your RC car performs at its best.
- Price: GoolRC offers one of the best cheap brushless motor and ESC combos on the market, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
- Castle Creations 3800KV 1410 Motor ESC Combo
- Motor: The Castle 3800KV 1410 motor is a high-performance motor designed for speed. It’s one of the fastest brushless RC motors 1/10, making it perfect for competitive racing.
- ESC: The Castle Creations ESC is a top-quality component, designed to work flawlessly with the 3800KV 1410 motor. It offers excellent control and efficiency, allowing your RC car to reach its full potential.
- Price: This combo is a bit more expensive, but it offers superior performance and durability.
- 3650 Brushless Motor ESC Combo
- Motor: The 3650 brushless motor is a versatile and powerful motor, suitable for various RC car models. It’s a favorite among RC enthusiasts due to its high torque and excellent performance.
- ESC: This ESC is designed to work hand in hand with the 3650 brushless motor, providing smooth control and efficient operation.
- Price: This brushless motor ESC combo 1/10 offers excellent value for money, balancing price and performance.
Honorable Mentions
- Best RC Crawler Motor ESC Combo: For crawler enthusiasts, a high torque brushless motor is a must. The Castle Creations ESC paired with a high torque brushless motor makes for a fantastic crawler ESC motor combo.
- Best Brushless Motor for 1/10 RC Car: The GoolRC 3650 Brushless Motor stands out with its impressive balance of power and efficiency, making it the best brushless motor for 1/10 RC car.
- Fastest Brushless RC Motor 1/10: For pure speed, the Castle 3800KV 1410 motor is a standout choice.
How to Choose the Right ESC for Brushless Motor
Choosing the right ESC for your brushless motor can be a daunting task. Here are a few pointers:
- Compatibility: Ensure the ESC is compatible with your brushless motor. The voltage, current rating, and motor type (brushless) should align.
- Programmability: A programmable ESC allows you to fine-tune the performance of your RC car to suit your driving style and the conditions.
- Brand Reputation: Choose ESCs from reputable brands that offer good customer support and warranty.
Brushless RC Motor Tuning Tips
Tuning your brushless RC motor can help you squeeze out every ounce of performance. Here are a few tips:
- Gear Ratio: Adjusting the gear ratio can help you balance between speed and torque, depending on the track or terrain.
- ESC Settings: Experiment with the ESC settings. You can adjust parameters like braking strength, punch control, and throttle curve to optimize performance.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection of the motor and ESC can help maintain optimal performance and longevity.
Conclusion
The world of RC racing has been transformed by the introduction of brushless motors and ESCs. With the right combo, you can significantly boost the performance of your RC car. Whether you’re a speed demon, a crawling enthusiast, or a beginner looking to upgrade your RC car motor, there’s a brushless motor ESC combo out there for you. Remember, the best brushless motor ESC combo for you will depend on your specific needs, your RC car, and your budget.
Get out there, upgrade your RC car with a high-performance brushless motor and ESC combo, and leave your competition in the dust!
Frequently Asked Questions
What KV rating is best for a short course truck?
1800-2800KV offers the right combination of torque and stability for short course. Anywhere from a 2100KV to 2600KV sensorless motor paired with a 100+ amp ESC is ideal.
Do I need a sensored motor for racing?
Sensored brushless motors are not an absolute must, but they can provide better acceleration and low-end torque out of the gate along with increased efficiency. The hall sensors optimize timing and control.
Should I get the highest capacity ESC I can?
Not necessarily – it’s more important to size the ESC appropriately for the motor’s potential current draw. Too big of an ESC can result in poor efficiency and may not provide as smooth of throttle control.
How many cells should my LiPo battery have?
For high performance 1/10 racing, 2-3 cell LiPo configurations are common. This provides sufficient voltage for the motor while keeping battery size and weight reasonable for the vehicle. Make sure your ESC can support your desired cell count.
What gauge wire should I use for my battery connections?
For anything over 50+ amps of current, 12 gauge silicone wire is recommended to reduce resistance and avoid power loss. Higher capacity systems may benefit from 10 gauge or 8 gauge battery wiring.
Why does my motor cog or stutter under heavy throttle?
This is usually a sign of excessive mechanical load on the motor. Double check your gear mesh alignment and try a lower pinion gear ratio to ease strain on the motor under acceleration.
My motor gets very hot running back to back races. What should I do?
Larger stator size, sensored motors, higher pole counts, and/or canned motors can all help dissipate heat better. Also allow more cooling time between runs and consider a motor fan or heatsink if overheating is an issue.