Probably you have already gained some knowledge about the combos. But finding the best RC crawler motor ESC combo can be tiring.
There are lots of options, and I have chosen the finest and most powerful ones to give you the strategic advantage in racing.
In this article, you will get to know about such products that are not only a good combination for speed but also precise control and stability. Let’s get started.
Our Recommendations On Best RC Crawler Motor ESC Combo:
- Best Brushed Combo: HOBBYWING Axe 550 FOC System Combo
- Best Brushless Combo: Spektrum Firma 160A Brushless Smart ESC / 1250Kv Sensorless Motor Combo
- Best Budget: Hobbywing QuicRun WP 1060 60A
- Most Popular Brushless Combo: Tekin ROC412 and Castle Creations Mamba Max Pro
- Waterproof Combo: Innovateking 5200KV Sensorless Brushless Motor with 120A ESC
What Type of Motor ESC Combo Do RC Crawlers Need?
The first thing is that you can use both brushed and brushless motor-ESC combo for your RC crawler.
Both have advantages and disadvantages based on your requirements and application.
Generally, a brushless system is preferred by experts, but they also suggest a brushed combo in a few cases.
That is why I have selected and reviewed different models from both types.
If you look at the specs and features, you will understand that brushed motors are great for their throttle response.
Also, the combos’ ability to provide better control at low speed compared to the brushless ones make them perfect for crawlers.
Also, brushed motor and ESC are the most affordable upgrade options for beginners.
On the other hand, brushless motors are popular because of their efficiency and ability to provide more speed.
Though they cost more, the motors last longer than their counterparts. In the long run, brushless systems win the debate by a mile.
However, serious RC hobbyists agree that a brushed motor with a compatible ESC is the best combination for crawlers.
Top 5 RC Crawler Motor ESC Combo Review:
I hope that you have already decided on the right size of motor and type of combo for your RC crawler.
Now, read the reviews and choose one without worrying about reliability or quality.
1. Best Brushed Combo: HOBBYWING Axe 550 FOC System Combo
Specifications:
- Constant Velocity: 2700KV
- Continuous Current: 80A
- Peak Current: 480A
- Waterproof: Yes; IP67
After lots of iterations and numerous tuning improvements, this 2700KV motor and compatible ESC has become very reliable. That is the reason behind the popularity of the world’s first FOC brushless system perfect for Rock Crawler.
You will be glad to know that it has built-in Bluetooth connectivity making it more convenient for the users. It makes the users’ life easier by letting them quickly update the ESC data or firmware without wired connections. Also, the IP67 rating makes it suitable for all types of terrains.
What I like about its ESC is consistency and precise signal output resulting in super linearity and high torque without making much noise. Though it has resistance against water and dust, you will have to upgrade your RC accordingly to take full advantage of it.
Another thing I want to mention about the combo is adjustable drag brake along with drag brake rate control. This feature gives it the extreme ability to park on slopes without introducing any jerky stops. Either use 2-3S LiPo or 6-9S NiMH battery pack for powering it.
Pros:
- Durable and reliable performance
- Waterproof making the crawler run on any ground and any weather condition
- Very popular for its speed
Cons:
- May turn out to be not-so-powerful for many hobbyists
2. Best Brushless Combo: Spektrum Firma 160A Brushless Smart ESC / 1250Kv Sensorless Motor Combo
Specifications:
- Constant Velocity: 1250KV
- Continuous Current: 5A
- Peak Current: 1050A
- Waterproof: Yes
Compared to the previous product, the Spektrum combo can’t generate the same level of power. This one is more suitable for smaller models. Also, lots of RC crawler models can’t house very powerful systems or large battery packs.
It is one of the most desirable upgrades for their RC crawlers. Within its compact size, the motor can provide enormous power compared to the competitors. I have to admit that the combo is a bit pricey but the investment is worth every penny.
I like the ESC because Spektrum uses a powerful 32-bit ARM M4 processor. Programing the kit is very easy as it comes with button programming, and Smart ESC Programming Box. Using the SmartLink USB Updating and Programmer application, even beginners can figure things out quickly.
For safety, the manufacturer provides over-current protection, automatic LiPo low-voltage cutoff, thermal protection, and failsafe protection. The best thing about this combo is its real-time communication ability which lets you adjust the performance on the go.
Pros:
- Fits nicely without any adjustments
- Powerful enough to achieve up to 100 mph
- Good heat insulation system
- User-friendly interface and features for adjustments on the go
Cons:
- The firmware should be more polished
3. Best Budget: Hobbywing QuicRun WP 1060 60A
Specifications:
- Constant Velocity: 1200KV
- Continuous Current: 60A
- Peak Current: 360A
- Waterproof: Yes
For your 1/10 RC touring car and crawlers, Hobbywing QuicRun WP 1060 can be a great addition. Replacing the stock motor and ESC combo with this one will give you superior maneuverability without spending hundreds of dollars.
I like the motor for its useful features and capabilities. Considering the price, you will understand the reason for a simpler ESC. It can only maintain basic connectivity and gives the motor low-voltage, overheat, and throttle signal loss protection.
But the slight downside gets covered by the waterproof and dustproof build. Therefore, you can ride the RC crawler on any terrain without worrying about damaging the parts.
For speed, and better performance, the combo uses a very efficient and effective aluminum cooling system. Also, the integrated cooling fan pulls cool air helping the internal temperature under control.
According to the seller, you have to use 2S LiPo battery packs in order to maximize the motor’s speed. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t use 3S LiPo batteries; the motor supports both.
Pros:
- Capable of handling rough experiments
- Built-in protections for safety
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Efficient aluminum cooling system
Cons:
- Not as powerful as the top 2 models on the list
4. Most Popular Brushless Combo: Tekin ROC412 and Castle Creations Mamba Max Pro
Specifications:
- Constant Velocity: 3100KV
- Continuous Current: Not Specified
- Peak Current: Not Specified
- Waterproof: No
Here, I have got a combo from different manufacturers. The previous ones are made and marketed by the same company. But I wanted to include this exception because of its popularity in the community.
According to the pros, you will get the best combo for your RC crawler by buying the motor from Tekin and ESC from Castle Creations. Together, the brushless system is capable of supporting 6S maximum input.
Read the reviews, and you will know that the motor is absolutely a beast. To house the heavy motor and ESC, you will have to modify the body and chassis accordingly. The users are very satisfied and think that the motor may rip the truck apart to go where it is going given the chance.
Considering how much money you will be investing in this upgrade, it is disappointing to tell you that the motor is not waterproof. That is the only reason I couldn’t place it on top of the list.
Check out the stock specs, compare them with this combo, and you will know that it can provide twice as much power as the factory parts. If you are into racing, you will love this motor and ESC combo for your RC crawler.
Pros:
- Very powerful, efficient, and suitable to dry ground
- Capable of providing additional power for more speed
- Supports both 5V and 7V systems
Cons:
- Not waterproof
5. Waterproof Combo: Innovateking 5200KV Sensorless Brushless Motor with 120A ESC
Specifications:
- Constant Velocity: 5200KV
- Continuous Current: 120A
- Peak Current: Not Specified
- Waterproof: Yes
Lastly, I have got a mid-range combo. Read the specs and reviews from the link I have given. And, you will know that it has the best bang for the buck. Comparing the specs, features, abilities to the price, you will know that no other brand can offer such durable products within such a budget.
Though the motor has a rating of 5200KV (more than the top pick), you will have to keep your expectations low. In real life, you may not get the featured speed, but it will be way more than the budget pick from Hobbywing.
With its easy programming interface and management system, you won’t have to spend time matching different motors and ESCs. Also, the waterproof build quality makes it more convenient for the users.
For 1/10 RC crawlers, there will be no requirement for body adjustments as Innovateking makes it keeping the OEM specs in mind. Besides durability and precise fit, you will also be glad to know about the safety features it has. Therefore, frequent burning of the stock motor will not happen here.
Pros:
- Waterproof and dustproof for all-weather racing
- Efficient motor design for more speed
- Coil doesn’t get burned frequently like stock
Cons:
- The QC and finishing should be done more carefully
What to Consider Buying the Best RC Crawler Motor ESC Combo
There are lots of online discussions on motor ESC combos for RC cars and trucks.
In particular applications such as using them in RC crawlers, beginners need to be enlightened.
Everywhere, you will notice that brushless motors and ESCs are the primary choices which is not the case here.
I have already explained the reason for brushed motors to be perfect for crawlers above.
The low price and better speed control at low speed are perfect for rock crawlers. Here, speed is not a big concern, maneuverability is.
After fixing a budget for your upgrade, you should start looking for a compatible drive system or the ESC that is compatible with the motor.
Then, measure the dimension inside your crawler to make sure that the combo fits perfectly.
Also, calculate the weight it can support. Otherwise, you won’t get the expected result in the end. At the same time, check whether the battery can power it.
Next, consider the water-resisting ability of the combo so that you can run the crawler in any circumstance.
Finally, read the customer reviews of your chosen model to know how well it performs in real life.
Final Words
That is all about buying the best RC crawler motor ESC combo review. You have the list of top products and a buying guide. All you have to do is read them carefully, set the requirements, and buy one accordingly.
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