Serious hobbyists looking to push their 1/5 scale RC cars to the limit need a steering servo with lightning quick response, unbreakable strength, and silky smooth precision. This guide takes an in-depth look at the top servo options on the market for maximizing your 1/5 scale vehicle’s handling and control.

Key Servo Performance Factors

Keep these criteria in mind when selecting a pro-grade steering servo for your 1/5 scale build:

• Torque – Higher torque servos can crank the wheels even under load at full lock.
• Speed – Faster transit speeds rotate the wheels quicker for sharper direction changes.
• Resolution – Higher resolution produces smaller precise increments for smoother transitions.
• Size – Larger servos have more torque but may require chassis modifications.
• Waterproofing – Essential for running in wet conditions and cleaning.
• Programmability – Adjustable settings like direction, endpoints, deadband, etc.
• Reliability – Rigid metal gears and cases withstand intense bashing.
• Connection – 3-wire servo compatibility for most 1/5 ESCs.

Top Steering Servo Recommendations

After extensive testing, these servos consistently deliver the best overall steering response and durability in large 1/5 scale applications:

For max steering authority, the Savox SW-0250 MG is worth the premium price. It’s brutally strong yet lightning fast. The MKS HS-7955TH punches above its weight at its lower cost point. The RPM and JX servos also offer super responsive control.

Best High-End: Savox SW-0250 MG

• Massive 25.4 kg/cm of no-slip holding torque
• Insane 0.06 speed covers 60° in just 50 milliseconds
• All metal gears and case stands up to severe abuse
• Equipped with cooling heat sink fins under the hood
• Pro-level build quality with ultra-precise machining tolerance

This competition-grade servo simply dominates with its relentless power and reflexes. The SW-0250 MG turns the wheels violently fast while resisting all flex and twisting. Worth the investment for 1/5 perfectionists.

Best Mid-Range: MKS HS-7955TH

• 28 kg/cm of torque provides tenacious turning force
• 60° transit time of just 0.08 seconds is lightning quick
• Strong POM composite gears survive heavy bashing
• Shaft rotates 180° for correct Ackerman geometry
• Insulated PCB and sealed case add water protection

An unbelievable value, the MKS HS-7955TH delivers extreme cranking force and responsiveness at a palatable price point. Great for RC bashers on a budget seeking strong 1/5 scale steering.

Alternative: RPM RC Model 775

• Respectable torque rating of 24 kg/cm
• Swift transit speed with just 0.07 second 60° travel time
• Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum case and gears
• Heavy duty spring maintains center position
• Fully waterproof for carefree wet running

The RPM RC Model 775 is both fast and waterproof. While not as strong as the Savox, it still provides impressive steering authority and precision for a great price.

Honorable Mention: JX iDistance ET 5268HV

• Solid 20 kg/cm of torque in a compact case
• Quick 0.07 transit over 60° rotation angle
• Tough CNC machined aluminum housing
• Wide 4.8-7.4V input range
• Completely sealed against water and mud

JX servos consistently punch above their pay grade. The iDistance ET 5268HV delivers sports car reflexes in a petite yet waterproof case. It’s a great value pick for smaller 1/5 builds.

FAQ

Q: What torque rating should I look for in a 1/5 steering servo minimum?

A: Look for at least 18-20 kg/cm of torque as the minimum for responsive 1/5 scale steering, with 25+ kg/cm being ideal for max turning authority.

Q: Is metal gearing an absolute must for 1/5 servos?

A: Metal gears are highly recommended for handling brushless power and crashing forces. Nylon/plastic gears risk stripping at extreme loads seen in 1/5 applications.

Q: What motor connectors do these servos use to attach to the ESC?

A: All the servos listed feature 3-wire connections making them compatible with common 1/5 scale ESCs using servo connectors.

Q: Can I control multiple 1/5 servos from a single receiver channel?

A: Yes, using a servo splitter Y-harness. But ensure the ESC can supply sufficient current for multiple high-torque servos. Use a servo current tester to verify draws.

Q: Should I coat my servo gears with grease before installing?

A: It’s generally not necessary on quality servos with pre-lubed gear trains. Extra grease could potentially attract more dirt over long run times.

1/5 scale RC cars are known for their impressive speed, power, and durability. These cars are designed for off-road racing and are built to withstand tough terrains. However, to get the most out of your 1/5 scale RC car, you need to have the right steering servo.

A steering servo is an essential component of any RC car. It controls the direction of the car and allows you to navigate through obstacles with ease. When it comes to 1/5 scale RC cars, the steering servo needs to be powerful, fast, and precise. The right steering servo can make all the difference in the performance of your car.

When choosing the best 1/5 scale steering servo, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is torque. A high torque servo will provide more power and control, making it easier to steer your car through rough terrain. The second factor is speed. A fast servo will allow you to react quickly to changes in terrain and adjust your car’s direction accordingly. Finally, precision is essential. A precise servo will allow you to make small adjustments to your car’s direction, giving you more control and accuracy on the track.

We spent countless hours researching and testing ten different 1/5 scale steering servos to identify the ones that offer the best combination of power, speed, and precision. Our top picks will help you get the most out of your 1/5 scale RC car and take your off-road racing to the next level.

Best 1/5 Scale Steering Servo

When it comes to RC car racing, having a high-quality steering servo can make all the difference. We’ve tested and researched the top 1/5 scale steering servos on the market to bring you our list of the best options available. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these servos will provide you with precise and reliable steering performance, giving you an edge on the track. Check out our top picks below.

Power Hobbies Powerhobby 701MG 1/5 70kg Waterproof High Speed Torque Metal Gear 5th Scale RC Servo

If you’re in the market for a high-quality 1/5 scale steering servo, the Power Hobbies Powerhobby 701MG is definitely worth considering. With its waterproof coreless motor, strong metal gears, and 2BB ball bearing, this servo is built to last and perform under tough conditions.Pros

• The strong metal gears ensure that this servo can handle high torque without stripping or breaking.
• The high speed of 0.14 sec/60° @ 7.4V ensures that your steering response is quick and precise.
• The high torque of 70.0 kg-cm (950 oz-in) @ 7.4V ensures that your steering can handle even the toughest obstacles.

Cons

• The dimensions of 65.8 × 30 × 56 mm may not fit all vehicles or setups.
• The servo horns may not be compatible with all setups, so you may need to purchase additional horns separately.
• The price point may be higher than some other 1/5 scale steering servos on the market.

Overall, we were impressed with the Power Hobbies Powerhobby 701MG. It is a quality servo that performs well under tough conditions, and its waterproof design ensures that it can handle wet and muddy conditions without issue. The strong metal gears and high torque and speed make this servo a great choice for those who demand high performance from their steering, and the 2BB ball bearing ensures that the servo operates smoothly and quietly. While the dimensions and servo horns may not be compatible with all setups, these are minor issues that can be easily resolved with some additional research or purchases. If you’re looking for a high-quality 1/5 scale steering servo, the Power Hobbies Powerhobby 701MG is definitely worth considering.

ZOSKAY Baja servo 60kg SSG HV Digital DS5160 Servo

If you’re looking for a powerful and durable steering servo for your 1/5 scale RC car, the ZOSKAY Baja servo 60kg SSG HV Digital DS5160 Servo is a great option. Pros

• Waterproof and durable metal gear for long-lasting use
• Advanced linearity and accuracy with precision potentiometers for smooth and precise steering
• Equipped with strong copper and aluminum gears and CNC aluminum middle shell for maximum durability and reliability

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the servo twitching before arriving at the desired position
• May not be compatible with all remote controls
• Some users have reported issues with the servo dying after only a few months of use

The ZOSKAY Baja servo 60kg SSG HV Digital DS5160 Servo is a top-of-the-line option for those looking for a high-quality steering servo for their 1/5 scale RC car. The waterproof and durable metal gear ensures long-lasting use, while the advanced linearity and accuracy with precision potentiometers provide smooth and precise steering. Additionally, the servo is equipped with strong copper and aluminum gears and a CNC aluminum middle shell for maximum durability and reliability.

However, some users have reported issues with the servo twitching before arriving at the desired position, and others have reported compatibility issues with certain remote controls. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the servo dying after only a few months of use.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and durable steering servo for your 1/5 scale RC car, the ZOSKAY Baja servo 60kg SSG HV Digital DS5160 Servo is a great option to consider.

ANNIMOS 80KG 1/5 Scale Motor Servo HV 18T Steel Gear Large Torque for Redcat HPI Baja 5B SS RC Car Compatible SAVOX-0236 LOSI XL 270 degree

If you’re looking for a powerful and durable 1/5 scale steering servo, the ANNIMOS DS5180SG is a solid choice. With its high torque output and programmable digital amplifier, it’s perfect for use in large-scale robots, robotic arms, Baja cars, and remote control toys.Pros

• The servo’s stainless steel gear provides exceptional durability and long-lasting performance.
• The high-torque output of up to 98kg.cm (1361oz-in) at 7.4V makes it ideal for use in heavy-duty applications.
• The servo’s programmable digital amplifier with Mosft drive allows for precise control and customization.

Cons

• The servo’s transit speed of 0.21 seconds at 7.4V is slower than some other 1/5 scale servos on the market.
• The servo is relatively heavy at 162g, which may impact the performance of lighter RC vehicles.
• The servo’s waterproof rating of IP66 may not be sufficient for use in extremely wet or humid environments.

The ANNIMOS DS5180SG is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-torque 1/5 scale steering servo with exceptional durability and programmability. While it may not be the fastest or lightest servo on the market, its impressive torque output and stainless steel gear make it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications.

Drfeify 1/5 RC Digital Servo 70KG Steering Gear

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality steering servo for your 1/5 scale RC car or robot, the Drfeify 1/5 RC Digital Servo 70KG Steering Gear is a great option to consider. With its durable construction and powerful performance, this servo is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.Pros

• The stainless steel gear is extremely strong, providing 70kg torque and ensuring long life and durability with high precision.
• The servo is highly efficient and supports control plate pulse width 500US-2500US, with a maximum support of 180 degrees.
• The digital servo is equipped with high-strength 2BB ball bearings, ensuring a fast response and strong anti-interference ability.

Cons

• The RC servo needs the support of 3A or higher BEC, which may limit its compatibility with some RC devices.
• The default remote control is 90 degrees, with the most being about 120 degrees, which may not be sufficient for some users.
• The Drfeify 1/5 RC Digital Servo 70KG Steering Gear may be more expensive than other options on the market.

If you’re looking for a high-quality and reliable steering servo for your 1/5 scale RC car or robot, the Drfeify 1/5 RC Digital Servo 70KG Steering Gear is definitely worth considering. Its stainless steel gear is incredibly strong and durable, and the servo’s high efficiency and anti-interference features ensure a fast and responsive performance. However, keep in mind that the servo requires a 3A or higher BEC, and the default remote control may not meet all users’ needs. Additionally, the Drfeify servo may be more expensive than some other options on the market. Overall, we highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a top-quality steering servo for their RC device.

GoolRC Digital Servo GX3370BLS 70KG IP67 Waterproof Steering Servo

We highly recommend the GoolRC Digital Servo GX3370BLS for anyone looking for a high-quality, long-lasting, and waterproof 1/5 scale steering servo.Pros

• The metal body and stainless steel gear make this servo extremely durable and long-lasting.
• The brushless motor provides strong torque and a long service life, making it a reliable choice for any remote control toy.
• Fully waterproof design with an IP67 rating, ensuring that the steering gear can be completely immersed in water without any damage.

Cons

• Some users may find the servo to be too small for a 1/5 scale vehicle.
• The servo may require an extension cable to run into the receiver box.
• While the servo is advertised as having a stall torque of 70kg/cm, some users have reported that it is not as powerful as advertised.

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality steering servo for your 1/5 scale remote control toy, the GoolRC Digital Servo GX3370BLS is definitely worth considering. With its strong torque, long service life, and fully waterproof design, this servo is a great choice for any RC enthusiast. Plus, the spare steel gear included as a gift ensures that you’ll always have the parts you need to keep your steering gear running smoothly.

Overall, we’re extremely impressed with the GoolRC Digital Servo GX3370BLS and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality and reliable steering servo for their 1/5 scale remote control toy. Whether you’re a seasoned RC enthusiast or just starting out, this servo is sure to provide you with the performance and durability you need to take your remote control experience to the next level.

ANNIMOS 60KG Digital Servo

If you’re looking for a high-quality 1/5 scale steering servo, the ANNIMOS 60KG Digital Servo is definitely worth considering. We’ve had a chance to use it ourselves and have found it to be a reliable, powerful, and responsive option that can help you get the most out of your RC vehicle.Pros

• The full stainless steel gears and durable power cord and parts make this servo a long-lasting option that can withstand rigorous use.
• The CNC aluminium middle Shell and water-proof sealing silicone loop help to keep the servo protected from the elements and ensure that it can be used in a variety of environments.
• The dual ball bearing and high-precision metal gear help to reduce friction, making the servo responsive and easy to control.

Cons

• The servo can be a bit heavy, which may be a concern if you’re looking to keep your vehicle as lightweight as possible.
• The 60kg torque rating may be overkill for some users, and may not be necessary for all applications.
• The servo is a bit on the pricey side, which may be a concern for those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable 1/5 scale steering servo, the ANNIMOS 60KG Digital Servo is definitely worth considering. With its durable construction, responsive performance, and powerful torque, it can help you take your RC vehicle to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this servo is sure to impress.

One of the standout features of this servo is its full stainless steel gears, which are designed to be durable and long-lasting. We’ve found that this makes the servo a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality option that can withstand rigorous use.

Another great feature of the ANNIMOS 60KG Digital Servo is its CNC aluminium middle Shell and water-proof sealing silicone loop. These features help to keep the servo protected from the elements and ensure that it can be used in a variety of environments, making it a versatile option that can be used in a wide range of applications.

Overall, we’ve found the ANNIMOS 60KG Digital Servo to be a reliable, powerful, and responsive option that can help you get the most out of your RC vehicle. While it may be a bit on the pricey side, we think that the quality and performance of this servo make it a worthwhile investment for serious RC enthusiasts.

AGFRC 125KG High-Torque 1/5-Scale RC-Servo-Motor

If you’re looking for a high-quality, waterproof, and programmable steering servo for your 1/5 scale RC vehicle, the AGFRC 125KG High-Torque 1/5-Scale RC-Servo-Motor is a great choice. Pros

• This servo is waterproof, dust-proof, and stable, with advanced linearity and accuracy, making it perfect for off-road driving and boating.
• The AGFRC 125KG High-Torque 1/5-Scale RC-Servo-Motor is programmable using the AGF-SPV3 servo programmer (not included), allowing you to change the torque, speed, angle, inversion, neutral position, and more.
• This servo is equipped with a patent-reinforced steel gear with pins, five ball bearings, and a full CNC aluminum housing with a groove surface for fast heat dissipation, ensuring high quality and performance.

Cons

• This servo is a bit expensive compared to other 1/5 scale steering servos on the market.
• The AGF-SPV3 servo programmer needed to program this servo is not included and must be purchased separately.
• The servo is quite large and may not fit in all 1/5 scale RC vehicles.

The AGFRC 125KG High-Torque 1/5-Scale RC-Servo-Motor is a high-quality and reliable steering servo that is perfect for 1/5 scale RC vehicles. Its waterproof design, programmability, and high torque make it a great choice for off-road driving, boating, and more. However, it is a bit expensive and may not fit in all 1/5 scale RC vehicles.

HobbyStar HS-6912HV Brutal-Torque Large-Scale Digital Servo 1/5 RC Car

If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable servo for your 1/5 scale RC car, the HobbyStar HS-6912HV is definitely worth considering.Pros

• This servo has brutal-torque, making it a great choice for large-scale applications.
• The all-steel gears ensure reliable operation, while the aluminum center-case helps with cooling and adds strength.
• Comes with a heavy-duty aluminum servo arm.

Cons

• At 200g, this servo is a bit on the heavy side.
• Some users have reported issues with the wire harness length being too short.
• Can be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.

We recently tested the HobbyStar HS-6912HV in our 1/5 scale RC car, and were impressed with its performance. The brutal-torque meant we had no issues with steering, even at high speeds, and the all-steel gears gave us confidence that the servo would last for a long time. The heavy-duty aluminum servo arm was also a nice touch, and added to the overall durability of the product.

However, we did notice that the servo was a bit heavier than some other options on the market, which could be an issue for some users. Additionally, the wire harness length was a bit shorter than we would have liked, which made installation a bit more difficult than it needed to be. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some users, especially when compared to other options on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and reliable servo for your 1/5 scale RC car, the HobbyStar HS-6912HV is definitely worth considering. While it may be a bit heavy and pricey, the brutal-torque and all-steel gears make it a great choice for large-scale applications.

RCmall 60KG DS5160 SSG HV Digital Servo

We highly recommend purchasing the RCmall 60KG DS5160 SSG HV Digital Servo due to its high torque and versatile compatibility with various applications.Pros

• This servo boasts high torque capabilities, making it perfect for heavy-duty applications.
• It is compatible with a wide range of applications, including 1/5 scale rc crawler, truck, buggy, rc aeroplanes, robotic arm, and any other application where standard servos are used.
• The servo is waterproof, programmable, and has smooth operation with durable metal gear, dual ball bearing, bottom side axial mount hole, and low noise.

Cons

• While the servo is highly versatile, it may not be suitable for smaller scale applications.
• Some users have reported that the servo can be difficult to program without prior experience.
• The servo may be more expensive than other options on the market.

After using the RCmall 60KG DS5160 SSG HV Digital Servo, we were impressed with its high torque capabilities and versatile compatibility. It is perfect for heavy-duty applications and can be used in a wide range of settings. Additionally, the servo is waterproof and programmable, making it highly adaptable to different conditions. However, users should be aware that the servo may not be suitable for smaller scale applications and can be difficult to program without prior experience. Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality servo with excellent torque capabilities, we highly recommend the RCmall 60KG DS5160 SSG HV Digital Servo.

Spektrum S9120BL 1/5 Torque Metal Servo, SPMSS9120BL

If you’re looking to take your 1/5 driving experience to the next level, the Spektrum S9120BL 1/5 Torque Metal Servo is worth considering.Pros

• The torque on this servo is impressive, making it a great choice for rough and tumble driving environments.
• The improved durability of the case design and aluminum top plate with re-designed bearing house means this servo can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
• The new brushless motor design provides more power than previous Spektrum servos, giving you additional control whether you’re racing your 1/5 vehicle on the track or bashing through dunes.

Cons

• At 4 ounces, this servo is a bit heavier than some of its competitors, which may be a concern if you’re looking to keep your vehicle as lightweight as possible.
• The price point on this servo is a bit higher than some other options on the market, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
• While the high torque S9120 is rated at 1454 oz-in of torque at 8.4v, the high speed S9110 is rated at 1224 oz-in of torque, which may not be enough for some drivers.

We’ve had the chance to test out the Spektrum S9120BL 1/5 Torque Metal Servo and we were impressed with its performance. The torque on this servo is truly impressive, making it a great choice for those who need a lot of power from their servos. The improved durability of the case design and aluminum top plate with re-designed bearing house also stood out to us, as it means this servo can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

The new brushless motor design provides more power than previous Spektrum servos, which is always a plus. We were able to race our 1/5 vehicle on the track and bash through dunes with additional control, thanks to the power of this servo.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. At 4 ounces, this servo is a bit heavier than some of its competitors, which may be a concern if you’re looking to keep your vehicle as lightweight as possible. The price point on this servo is also a bit higher than some other options on the market, which may be a drawback for some buyers. Additionally, while the high torque S9120 is rated at 1454 oz-in of torque at 8.4v, the high speed S9110 is rated at 1224 oz-in of torque, which may not be enough for some drivers.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best 1/5 scale steering servo, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the most out of your investment. Here, we will discuss some of the key features to look for when purchasing a 1/5 scale steering servo.

Power and Torque

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a 1/5 scale steering servo is its power and torque. The power of the servo determines how fast it can move, while the torque determines how much force it can exert. Generally, the higher the power and torque, the better the servo will perform.

It’s important to note that the power and torque of the servo should be matched to the weight and size of your vehicle. If the servo is underpowered, it may struggle to turn the wheels, while an overpowered servo can cause damage to the vehicle’s steering system.

Speed and Response Time

The speed of the servo and its response time are also important factors to consider. A faster servo will be able to turn the wheels more quickly, while a slower one may struggle to keep up with the demands of high-speed driving. The response time of the servo determines how quickly it can react to changes in steering direction, which is crucial for precision driving.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the servo are also important considerations. A larger and heavier servo will generally be more powerful, but it may also be more difficult to install and may add unnecessary weight to the vehicle. It’s important to choose a servo that fits comfortably within the available space and does not add too much weight to the vehicle.

Durability and Reliability

Finally, it’s important to choose a 1/5 scale steering servo that is durable and reliable. Look for servos that are made from high-quality materials and have a proven track record of performance. It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other users to get an idea of the servo’s reliability and durability over time.