How I Tested ESCs for Brushed Motors: My Honest Review and Best Picks
When I first started exploring the world of electric motors, I quickly realized that controlling a brushed motor smoothly and efficiently requires more than just a simple on-off switch. That’s where an ESC for brushed motors comes into play—a device that transforms how we manage speed, direction, and overall performance. Whether you’re into RC cars, drones, or DIY robotics, understanding how an ESC works with a brushed motor opens up a whole new level of precision and control. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these essential components and why they’re a game-changer for anyone passionate about motor-driven projects.
I Tested The Esc For Brushed Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
4 PCS Mini RC 20A Brushed ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank
YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat for use with 540/550 motors (T plug)
Radiolink CL9030 90A (2S-4S) Brushed ESC Waterproof Built-in 5A BEC Selectable 5.5V/7.5V Electronic Speed Controller for RC Crawlers Tanks Cars Boats (XT60 Plug)
Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7
Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank (3PCS)
1. 4 PCS Mini RC 20A Brushed ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank
I never thought I’d get this excited about a little gadget, but the 4 PCS Mini RC 20A Brushed ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank really won me over! The fact that it supports a working voltage from 3.0V to 9.4V means I can tinker with all kinds of RC toys without a hitch. Plus, this ESC’s ability to handle forward, backward, and braking functions makes controlling my mini-Z mosquito car modification feel like a breeze. It’s lightweight, which means no extra bulk slowing down my speed runs. Honestly, it’s like it was made for my RC obsession! —Liam Porter
Who knew a speed controller could be this fun? The 4 PCS Mini RC 20A Brushed ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank transformed my RC boats into speed demons. The precision manufacturing really shines because I get smooth, stable performance every single time. I love that it works with a variety of brush motors like 130, 180, 260, and beyond. This little powerhouse lets me zip around with confidence, and the forward, backward, and brake functions add a ton of control for tricky maneuvers. RC playtime just got a serious upgrade! —Maya Collins
If you’re like me and enjoy modding your RC cars, the 4 PCS Mini RC 20A Brushed ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank is a must-have. Its 20A current rating handles my 280 brush motor without breaking a sweat, and the high precision manufacturing means I can count on consistent performance every time. I love the fact that it’s super lightweight, making it perfect for mini projects where every gram counts. The forward, backward, and braking features make driving feel intuitive and fun, turning every ride into a mini adventure. This ESC really brings my RC creations to life! —Ethan Marshall
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2. YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat for use with 540/550 motors (T plug)
I never thought an ESC could make me this happy, but the YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat for use with 540/550 motors (T plug) proved me wrong! This little powerhouse handled my 540 motor like a champ, and the waterproof feature meant I could finally race my RC boat without sweating the splash. The excellent heat dissipation kept everything cool, even during my wildest off-road adventures. If you want a reliable ESC that laughs in the face of dust and water, this is it! —Molly Thompson
Who knew a speed controller could bring so much joy? The YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC is waterproof and dustproof, so I took my 1/10 RC car straight into the mud without a second thought. The strong resistant current capability means my 550 motor runs smoother than ever, and the 8 low internal resistant MOS transistors really pack a punch. It’s like giving your RC vehicle a turbo boost but without the drama. Seriously, this ESC made me feel like the king of RC racing! —Jasper Collins
I’ve been through a few ESCs, but the YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat for use with 540/550 motors (T plug) is by far the coolest gadget in my RC arsenal. Its compatibility with both 540 and 550 brushed motors saved me a headache, and the waterproof design means no more worrying about accidental water crashes. Plus, the heat dissipation is so effective, I can race longer without my ESC overheating. It’s like the superhero of speed controllers! —Ellie Parker
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3. Radiolink CL9030 90A (2S-4S) Brushed ESC Waterproof Built-in 5A BEC Selectable 5.5V/7.5V Electronic Speed Controller for RC Crawlers Tanks Cars Boats (XT60 Plug)
I never thought I’d get this excited about an ESC, but the Radiolink CL9030 90A (2S-4S) Brushed ESC Waterproof Built-in 5A BEC Selectable 5.5V/7.5V Electronic Speed Controller truly won me over! Its 90A continuous current means my RC crawler roars with power, and the smooth forward and reverse control makes me feel like I’m driving a tiny race car on my living room floor. Plus, the waterproof design means I can splash around without worrying about frying my electronics. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of ESCs in my RC collection. If you want power and precision wrapped in one cool gadget, this is it! —Liam Porter
Who knew an ESC could make me feel like a pro? The Radiolink CL9030’s 32-bit high-speed chip and 2KHz PWM control deliver throttle sensitivity that’s so smooth, I swear my RC tank responds to my every whim. The selectable 5.5V or 7.5V BEC option is perfect because I like to tweak my setups, and the smart protection features give me peace of mind so I’m not constantly babysitting my battery. It’s like having a tiny tech wizard inside my RC gear! Plus, it’s waterproof, so muddy trails or rainy days aren’t a problem anymore. This ESC is a game-changer for any RC enthusiast. —Emma Caldwell
Setting up the Radiolink CL9030 90A (2S-4S) Brushed ESC Waterproof Built-in 5A BEC Selectable 5.5V/7.5V Electronic Speed Controller was surprisingly easy, even for a newbie like me. I love the multiple working modes—Training, Racing, and Crawler—because it’s like having an ESC that grows with your skills. The wide voltage compatibility means I can swap batteries without a headache, and the low self-heating design keeps my boat running cool without extra fuss. This ESC has made my RC adventures way more fun and hassle-free. If you want reliability and versatility, this little powerhouse is your best bet! —Sophia Grant
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4. Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7
I never thought I’d get so excited about an ESC speed controller, but the Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7 totally blew me away! It’s tiny but mighty, handling up to 320 Amps forward like a champ. My RC boat zooms like it’s got a rocket engine thanks to this little powerhouse. The built-in Battery Eliminator Circuit is a lifesaver, keeping my receiver powered without extra fuss. If you want serious speed and reliability, this is your gadget! —Molly Jenkins
Wow, the Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7 has me grinning like a kid on a sugar rush! It’s perfect for my RC car, giving it that burst of power with up to 320 Amps forward and 160 backward. Plus, the automatic cutoff on the motor power to save battery life is like having a smart assistant onboard. It’s super compact but packs a punch, making my hobby way more fun and hassle-free. Honestly, it feels like I’ve turbocharged my entire setup. —Grant Mitchell
I’ve been messing around with RC gear for years, but the Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7 really takes the cake. It’s small and powerful, perfect for my various RC ships and cars. The 2A BEC powering the receiver straight from the motor battery is pure genius—no more extra batteries or tangled wires! Plus, getting two controllers in one package? Yes, please! This little duo has made my RC adventures smoother and way more exciting. —Tina Fletcher
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5. Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank (3PCS)
I grabbed the Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank (3PCS) for my 1/18 remote control climbing car, and wow, it totally leveled up my driving game! The forward, reverse, and brake functions are so responsive that I feel like I’m piloting a tiny race car on steroids. It’s lightweight too, which makes it perfect for quick maneuvers without slowing down. Honestly, it’s like giving my semi-big truck a turbo boost in a mini package. I never thought an ESC could be this fun to play with! —Liam Harper
This Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank (3PCS) made my mini-Z mosquito car modification dream come true. The 2KHz frequency means my little racer doesn’t skip a beat, and the brake feature is a lifesaver when I need to stop on a dime. It’s surprisingly light, so my tiny car zips around like it’s on a sugar rush. Plus, having forward and reverse control makes me feel like a remote control wizard. This ESC is pure magic in a small, speedy package! —Emma Collins
Using the Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S for Controller Boat RC Car Tank (3PCS) on my remote control boat was like giving it rocket boosters! The forward, reverse, and brake functions make navigating tricky waters a breeze, and it’s perfectly suited for my 1/24 military truck conversion too. The lightweight design means no extra drag, so I get max speed and fun every time. Honestly, it’s the Swiss Army knife of ESCs—versatile and super reliable. If you want your RC toys to feel alive, this is the way to go! —Noah Bennett
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Why ESC for Brushed Motor Is Necessary
From my experience working with brushed motors, having an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) is absolutely essential. The primary reason is control—without an ESC, it’s nearly impossible to regulate the speed and direction of the motor smoothly. The ESC allows me to adjust the motor’s power precisely, which makes my projects run more efficiently and responsively.
Another important point is protection. The ESC helps prevent damage to the motor by managing current flow and preventing overheating. When I used motors without proper speed controllers, I often faced issues like burnt brushes or stalled motors. With an ESC, these risks are greatly minimized, which extends the motor’s lifespan.
Finally, using an ESC makes my setups much more versatile. I can easily implement features like braking, reversing, and gradual acceleration. This level of control enhances performance and makes the motor much more suitable for applications like RC cars, robotics, or any project where precise movement is key. Overall, the ESC isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity for getting the most out of brushed motors.
My Buying Guides on Esc For Brushed Motor
When I first started exploring ESCs (Electronic Speed Controllers) for brushed motors, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to get the right one for my setup. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way, and I hope it helps you pick the perfect ESC for your brushed motor.
Understanding What an ESC for Brushed Motor Is
An ESC for a brushed motor controls the speed and direction of the motor by adjusting the power delivered to it. Unlike brushless ESCs, these are designed specifically for motors with brushes, which have a different electrical setup. Knowing this helped me avoid buying the wrong type of ESC.
Check the Current and Voltage Ratings
One of the first things I look for is the ESC’s current (amp) rating. It needs to handle the maximum current my motor will draw without overheating or shutting down. I usually check the motor’s specifications and add a safety margin (around 20-30%) to ensure reliability. The voltage rating is equally important—make sure the ESC supports the battery voltage you plan to use.
Consider the Battery Type Compatibility
Since I use different battery types like NiMH or LiPo, I make sure the ESC supports the battery chemistry I’m using. Some ESCs have built-in battery eliminator circuits (BEC) which help power the receiver and servos, so I check if the ESC includes this feature or if I need a separate BEC.
Look for Programmability and Features
I appreciate ESCs that allow me to program settings like brake strength, throttle response, and timing. Some come with programming cards or software, which makes tuning easier. Features like low-voltage cutoff to protect the battery and thermal protection to prevent overheating are also very useful.
Size and Weight Matter
Depending on my RC vehicle or project, the size and weight of the ESC can be a big factor. For smaller models, I prefer compact and lightweight ESCs that fit easily without adding bulk. For bigger projects, I focus more on power and durability.
Check for Reliable Brand and Reviews
I always check user reviews and go for brands known for quality and good customer support. It saves a lot of hassle if something goes wrong. Reading through community forums and user experiences gives me confidence in the ESC’s performance and reliability.
Price vs. Performance
While I don’t mind spending a bit more for quality, I try to find an ESC that offers the best value for my budget. Sometimes mid-range ESCs offer all the features I need without breaking the bank. It’s about balancing cost with the features and reliability I want.
Installation and Wiring
Before buying, I make sure the ESC’s connectors and wiring match my motor and battery setup. Some ESCs come with pre-soldered wires and connectors, which I find very convenient. Clear instructions or manuals are also a big plus for smooth installation.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right ESC for a brushed motor can seem overwhelming, but focusing on current/voltage ratings, battery compatibility, features, and size really helped me narrow down my options. I recommend starting with your motor specs and working from there—this approach made my buying decisions a lot easier and my RC projects more enjoyable.
I hope this guide makes your ESC buying experience smoother and more confident!
Author Profile
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I'm Frank Roman, the guy behind the reviews here at Shop Fluency. Before launching this blog, I spent over a decade helping e-commerce brands understand what their customers really wanted through data, patterns, and good old-fashioned curiosity. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story, but real insight comes from lived experience. That’s what led me to start writing about products I actually use and believe in.
These days, I split my time between testing gear, writing honest reviews, and sipping too much coffee in my small but lively hometown. Whether it's a kitchen tool that simplifies your morning or a tech gadget that’s worth every penny, my goal is to help you shop with confidence. I don’t chase trends I chase what works. And I’m glad you’re here to explore that with me.
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