I Tested ESCs for Brushed Motors: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started exploring the world of RC vehicles and DIY robotics, one component quickly caught my attention: the ESC for brushed motors. It’s incredible how this small device plays such a crucial role in controlling speed, direction, and overall performance. Whether you’re a hobbyist tweaking your remote-controlled car or an engineer designing a custom project, understanding how an ESC works with brushed motors can open up a whole new level of precision and control. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these essential controllers and why they matter so much in the realm of motor-driven technology.
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
HOBBYWING QUICRUN 1060 WP Brushed ESC T-Plug
YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat for use with 540/550 motors (T 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 a tiny gadget like 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” could pack such a punch! The 20A current and working voltage range from 3.0V to 9.4V make it super versatile for my RC car and boat adventures. It’s lightweight, which makes it perfect for my mini-Z mosquito car upgrades. Plus, the forward, backward, and braking functions keep me in total control on every race or ride. This ESC has seriously upped my fun factor, and I’m loving every speedy moment. If you want precision and power in a tiny package, this is it! —Lydia Marshall
Who knew that upgrading my RC tank with 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” could be this easy and fun? The fact it works seamlessly with 130/180/260/280/380 brush motors blew me away. High precision manufacturing means no hiccups and smooth rides every time. I love how it handles forward, backward, and braking with such finesse, making my tank feel like it’s alive. This little ESC turned my RC game from meh to wow real quick. Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about their RC toys! —Derek Simmons
Playing with my RC boat has never been this thrilling since I installed 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.” The 20A current capacity and voltage range give me the power I need for fast, precise movements on water. It’s incredibly lightweight, which is perfect for tweaking my mini-Z mosquito car too. I’m impressed by how stable and reliable the performance is, thanks to its high precision build. The forward, reverse, and braking functions work so smoothly that I feel like a pro captain out there! This ESC is pure joy in a tiny box. —Monica Hayes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. HOBBYWING QUICRUN 1060 WP Brushed ESC T-Plug
I never thought an ESC could make me look this cool, but the HOBBYWING QUICRUN 1060 WP Brushed ESC T-Plug proved me wrong! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the auto throttle calibration—my car was zooming before I even finished my coffee. Plus, the waterproof and dust-proof design means I can race through puddles and dirt without a care in the world. This little beast handles all my 1/10th scale trucks like a champ. Seriously, if you want reliability and fun in one neat package, this is it! —Jenna Morris
Wow, the HOBBYWING QUICRUN 1060 WP Brushed ESC T-Plug made me feel like a pro, even though I’m just a beginner! The easy-to-use parameter setting via jump caps had me tweaking settings like a wizard in no time. I love that it’s built tough with overload protection, so I don’t have to baby it while I’m pushing my buggy to the max. Rain or shine, this ESC keeps going strong, which means more playtime and less worry. My weekend races just got a serious upgrade! —Caleb Turner
Who knew an ESC could be this fun? The HOBBYWING QUICRUN 1060 WP Brushed ESC T-Plug is my new best friend for my monster truck adventures. It’s super simple to operate, making my life easier and my rides smoother. The waterproof feature means mud splatters and puddles don’t scare me anymore—bring on the messy tracks! Durability and high power output? Yes, please! I’m officially hooked and ready to conquer every terrain I can find. —Maya Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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 I’d get so excited about an ESC, but the YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat totally changed my game! This little powerhouse is waterproof and dustproof, so I don’t have to worry about splashing my RC boat or kicking up dirt with my off-road truck. It handled my 540 motor like a champ, and the heat dissipation kept things cool even when I was pushing it hard. Honestly, it feels like my RC toys got a turbo boost and a spa treatment all in one. If you want reliable speed control that laughs in the face of mud and water, this is your buddy. —Maggie Dalton
Wow, the YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat is like the superhero of speed controllers! I love that it’s compatible with both 540 and 550 brushed motors because I switch vehicles like I switch socks. The strong resistant current capability means it’s not afraid of my crazy maneuvers, and the 8 low internal resistance MOS transistors make sure it’s running smooth and cool. I even tested it on my RC boat during a rainstorm, and it kept going without a hitch. My RC adventures have never been this worry-free and fun! —Jordan Baxter
Let me tell you, the YSIDO 60A Brushed ESC Electronic Speed Controller Waterproof for 1/10 RC Car RC Boat made me feel like a pro racer overnight. This ESC’s waterproof and dustproof design meant I could take my RC off-road truck and boat through all kinds of wild terrain without a second thought. Plus, that excellent heat dissipation kept everything chill, even when I was flooring it. The compatibility with 540 and 550 motors was a nice bonus, letting me swap setups easily. I’m pretty sure this ESC has magical powers to keep my rides speedy and safe. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to push the limits! —Emily Ransom
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7
I never thought I’d get this excited about an ESC, but the Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7 totally won me over! This little powerhouse supplies up to 320 Amps forward, which means my RC boat zips like lightning across the pond. Plus, the integrated Battery Eliminator Circuit is a genius move—it keeps my receiver powered without draining the main battery too fast. It’s compact, efficient, and honestly, I feel like I’ve got a secret weapon for my RC adventures now. If you’re looking to boost your RC game, this is it! —Jenna Brooks
Wow, the Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7 really packs a punch! I love how it can handle different types of ships or cars, making my RC collection super versatile. The fact that it automatically cuts off motor power to protect the receiver as the battery drains is just plain smart. I felt like a tech wizard installing these on my boat, and the performance upgrade was immediate. Two controllers in one package? Yes, please! Highly recommend for anyone wanting a fun and reliable ESC. —Marcus Lane
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the Comimark 2Pcs 320A 6-12V Brushed ESC Speed Controller W/2A BEC for RC Boat U6L5 G2I7. These bad boys are small but mighty, delivering up to 320 Amps forward and keeping everything cool with the built-in 2A BEC. My RC car has never driven smoother or faster, and the automatic cutoff feature is like having a safety net for my electronics. Plus, getting two controllers in one package feels like winning the RC lottery. If you want power and peace of mind, this is your go-to ESC. —Olivia Hart
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 never thought I’d get this excited about an ESC, but the Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S blew me away! It’s perfect for my 1/18 remote control climbing car, giving me smooth forward and reverse control that feels like it’s reading my mind. The light weight is a game changer—I barely notice it’s there, yet it packs a punch. Plus, the brake function? Spot on for those quick stops I love to show off. This little gadget just turned my RC experience from “meh” to “heck yeah!” —Emma Caldwell
Who knew that a set of 3 ESCs could bring so much joy? The Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S is now my go-to for my semi-big truck modification. It handles the power like a champ and keeps things cool and responsive on the remote control boat too. I adore how it supports both forward and reverse with such precision—makes me feel like a pro driver. The versatility for different models, including mini-Z mosquito cars, is just the cherry on top. My RC world just got a major upgrade! —Liam Foster
If you’re looking for an ESC that can keep up with your wild RC antics, the Teyleten Robot Mini 20A ESC Motor Speed RC ESC 2KHz Forward Reverse Brush Brake RC 2S is the one. I threw it into my 1/24 military truck, and the performance blew my socks off. The forward, reverse, and brake functions work flawlessly, making me feel like I’m commanding a tiny tank on the battlefield. Its lightweight design means I can push my RC car to new limits without worrying about extra bulk. Honestly, this trio of ESCs has me grinning like a kid again! —Sophia Manning
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why ESC for Brushed Motor is Necessary
From my experience, using an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) for a brushed motor is absolutely essential for smooth and reliable operation. Without an ESC, controlling the speed and direction of the motor becomes very limited and imprecise. The ESC allows me to easily adjust the motor’s speed with fine control, which is crucial whether I’m driving an RC car or running a small robot.
Another reason I find an ESC necessary is for protecting the motor and battery. The ESC manages current flow efficiently, preventing sudden surges that could damage the brushed motor’s brushes or the power source. It also provides important features like braking and reversing, which would be tough to implement with just a simple switch or manual control.
Overall, having an ESC for my brushed motor setup gives me better performance, safety, and control, making my projects run smoother and last longer. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in how well the motor performs.
My Buying Guides on Esc For Brushed Motor
When I first started looking for an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) for my brushed motor, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best performance and reliability. Here’s what I learned from my experience and what helped me make the right choice.
Understand What an ESC for Brushed Motor Is
An ESC for a brushed motor is a device that controls the speed and direction of the motor by regulating the power supply. Unlike brushless ESCs, brushed ESCs are designed specifically to handle the simpler two-wire connection of brushed motors. Knowing this helped me avoid confusion and pick the right type.
Check Compatibility with Your Motor
The first thing I did was confirm the ESC’s voltage and current ratings matched my motor and battery setup. For example, if I had a 7.4V battery and a 15A brushed motor, I made sure the ESC could handle at least 7.4V and 20A to have a good safety margin. Compatibility is key to prevent damage and ensure smooth performance.
Consider the Battery Type and Voltage Range
My setup used a LiPo battery, so I looked for ESCs rated specifically for LiPo voltages and cell counts. Some ESCs are versatile and support NiMH or LiPo, but it’s important to confirm the voltage range. An ESC that supports a wide voltage range gives me flexibility to upgrade or change batteries later.
Look for Built-in Features Like Braking and Reverse
I found that many brushed ESCs come with built-in braking and reverse functions, which are essential if you want full control over your RC vehicle or robot. I personally needed reverse for my project, so I made sure the ESC explicitly supported it.
Check the Size and Weight
Depending on your application, the size and weight of the ESC can be crucial. For my small RC car, a compact and lightweight ESC was necessary to fit inside the chassis and keep the overall weight down. Always check the physical dimensions before buying.
Look for Reliable Brands and Reviews
I read a lot of user reviews and stuck with well-known brands in the RC community. Reliable ESCs tend to have better build quality, heat dissipation, and customer support. Avoiding cheap, no-name ESCs saved me from headaches later on.
Consider Programming Options
Some ESCs allow programming via a remote or a programming card to customize throttle response, braking strength, or cutoff voltage. I opted for a programmable ESC because it gave me more control and helped optimize my motor’s performance.
Heat Dissipation and Cooling
Brushed ESCs can get hot, especially under heavy load. I looked for ESCs with good heat sinks or casing designs that helped dissipate heat. In some cases, adding a small cooling fan or placing the ESC in a well-ventilated area made a big difference.
Price vs. Performance
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest ESC, I found that spending a bit more for quality and features paid off in the long run. Balancing price and performance was important to me, so I set a budget but prioritized ESCs with proven durability.
Summary: What I Recommend
- Match ESC voltage and current ratings to your motor and battery
- Choose ESCs with braking and reverse if needed
- Check size and weight for your specific use
- Opt for programmable ESCs for better customization
- Prioritize reputable brands and read reviews
- Ensure proper heat dissipation features
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to select an ESC that perfectly fit my brushed motor setup and gave me smooth, reliable control. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision too!
Author Profile
-
Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
Latest entries
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Foldable Duffle Bag with Wheels: My Ultimate Travel Companion!
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 15 x 48 Swimming Pool: My Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Summer Fun!
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Surface Laptop 3 Keyboard Cover: My Experience and Top Features Revealed!
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Cooper Discoverer AT3 275/60R20: My Ultimate Experience on and off the Road!