5 best motors and escs for rc crawlers

top 5 motor/esc combos for rc crawlers
5 - Hobbywing 1080 esc - snp.link/a28c36f7
Holmes Hobbies motors -
4 - Furitek Lizard Pro and Komodo combo - snp.link/c09fe8a9
3 - Castle Copperhead ESC - snp.link/4043f113
Holmes Hobbies Puller Pro -
2 - Holmes Hobbies Revolver motor - snp.link/b3b552ed
Holmes Hobbies Trailmaster esc -
1 - Hobbywing Axe 550 v2 - snp.link/b46820a2
Hobbywing Fusion combo -

[@matusknives]

So - 2 years down the road - would you still chose the same options, or were there some significant developments? Maybe it's time for another video of this kind. Just thinking out loud 😋

[@tmccarrico7187]

I'm new to this rc hobby but dang this guy's channel is gonna have me being an expert in no time! Thanks so much for all the great content really help me in deciding on what to purchase for upgrades

[@RCCinematic]

I’m running the hobbywing axe 3300kv in my Trx4 defender for about 2 years. That thing is a beast, takes everything. I bash, crawl, trail, go swimming with my TRX4 and nothing stops it!

[@RCReviewChannel]

It's so good it changes the vehicle into an all purpose crawler basher. You can change the pinion too to a bigger one for more pop.

[@derricksazrc3411]

it's nice to know hobbywing has stepped up to the constant torque game. You answered a question I had with the top brushed esc. Thanks Brother.

[@wgmainline9812]

Thank You for all you work in these reviews!!! One of my favorite channels for sure!!! 1080 and a crawlmaster is hard to beat for the price. I have the Castle Mamba X with a Slate 2850 but the Hobbywing Axe is by far my absolute favorite setups. Excellent Drag brake quiet operation Bluetooth programming excellent low speed control and an easy on/off switch. Only downside is the soldering of the wires on the ESC and only compatible with their motors. Again thank you for all the excellent reviews!!! Keep up the great work!!!!!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Right on. This is very much appreciated.

[@1521joe]

@@RCReviewChannel hey bro, can you do a video for best ESC & motor for 1/8 scale and 1/7 scale on road rc cars, like the new Hobao vte2 1/7 scale or maybe the limitless, thanks.

[@danielbrown7796]

@@RCReviewChannel hey I'm looking to upgrade my trx6 motor and esc to get a little more speed but don't wanna lose my crawl ability any recommendations. I like to play in the snow mud and puddles

[@gm3353]

the FOC has been a game changer incredible levels of control as well, great drag brake too. love my AXE

[@GrimJerr]

I have 2 HW AF R2, 1 540L 2800kv and the 550 3300kv, and 2 Castle Copperhead 10 Crawler edition slate 1406 3800kv, Both are excellent systems and you can't go wrong either way. I tip toward the Hobbywing AXE FOC due to Integrated Bluetooth for ESC, and still much quieter than the Castle system which has been much improved for noise over previous systems.

[@m.a.s.hq8715]

I heard that hw 2800 better than 3300 in terms of torque for crawling... do u have any idea ??

[@micahjared8082]

From deeeep in the Mountains of NY 🍻 Thank You for your SUPERB content! Just got back into RC after a 20 yr hiatus. Started in the late 80s till around 2000, and maaaan how things have changed! Just got my TRX Bronco today (and got the Losi Drag car coming soon 😂) You are a wealth of info that Ive been relying on. Could watch this channel all day and night, and no doubt I will. Cant wait to check out the TRX stock for a bit ; and slowly upgrade. TY Brother!!!

[@fishdogg44]

Really low your videos! My 6 year old and I got into the hobby last year and it quickly became a full family hobby. I’m doing my first build now and you are a wealth of information! Thanks for all you do!

[@RCReviewChannel]

That is awesome!

[@garybeckwith9045]

Thnx for the Holmes hobby reference! I live in Japan and their service is superb!

[@meadowlarkgal23]

Excellent suggestions and explainations for motor and ESC installation in my first kit build (TRX4 Sport) I always enjoy your videos, you are a great teacher.🌻

[@thesillypig785]

For brushed the Hobbywing 1080 can't be beat, and the price is so good. I put 4 of them in my cars this year, in my Tamiya CC01, CC02 and the Quadtrack and even in my Kyosho Javelin buggy. In my main crawler, good old SCX10, I put the Hobbywing Xerun Axe 540L R2-2100kv and damn it's amazing because you can adjust all settings on your phone while actually having the car in use. No programming card to connect, not having to take off the body or anything is just brilliant. Just open the app, adjust and keep on driving. Best thing ever.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Very good insight

[@gregbakke8296]

Excellent reviews. Installed the hobbywing 1080 in my trx4 based on one of your prior reviews. Love it! Now I gotta look at installing a Holmes Hobby motor 😉

[@RCReviewChannel]

You're doing it right.

[@stevemcclain3345]

Lol me to you definitely sold me on the hobby wing 1080 on my second trx motor so I’m gna get me Holms hobby motor

[@jooonsRC]

I watch the channel alot and try to help my local community with this knowledge in rc

[@jeffparryncc1701]

Hobbywing Fusion 1800 2in1, perfection :)

[@tangosierra1]

I run the Hobbywing 1080 and Holmes 550 sport motors in all my crawlers.

[@RCReviewChannel]

It is the goto standard for us too. Often, much more expensive brushless systems are not significantly better on most rigs.

[@jeffsnowden4323]

@@RCReviewChannel but which is best for a sport, 21 or 27 turn??

[@jeffreyd5129]

Hi, just yesterday I placed an order for a Furitek LIKO Pro Brushless Combo Kit from Ebay for my SCX24 Jeep. The total price was $130.84 with free shipping. So excited can't wait to receive it and install it! 😁

[@RCReviewChannel]

Welcome to the club.

[@jeffreyd5129]

@@RCReviewChannel I received it installed it, OMG the slow crawl modulation is amazing!!! I recently upgraded it with Treal weighted beadlock wheels gray/silver with HOPLEX 1.0 55mm by 18.5mm soft rubber crawler tires, Treal aluminum 7075 high clearance links, Treal aluminum gray center skid plate, Treal black aluminum steering rack link set (whew)😅. I also put in a GoolRC 5G Digital high torque metal gear servo, Mojuego 4pcs brass wheel counterweights, Aimrock 2-pack 8.4g brass diff covers and Coda Racing 4pcs 7mm brass hex wheel hubs. I also installed Treal Brass Steering Knuckles and Treal Rear Brass Counterweights 20g. And finally I made a weight from lead sinkers melting them into a 32g weight and mounted them on to the steering servo for a total weight of 504g. I also want to make an indoor crawler course!

[@steveblackbird]

Thank You for the review Francis. I know two things. The stock system in most crawlers is enough to get you started. Second, after I installed the Hobbywing Fusion system in my SCX10 it completely transformed how it drove. FOC is cheating to some but the effortless control is amazing. One I'd definitely recommend. Great that it's switchable too. Happy Holidays mate!

[@hyperlogos]

My Fusion is in the mail right now, where USPS sat on it for a week with no status updates. Got my 3s batts already. I'm currently on the stock ESC (in my gen8 v2) and a holmes trailmaster sport 21T. Can't wait.

[@RCReviewChannel]

The waiting is the hardest part.

[@joshkelly6393]

i just ordered a hobbywing 1080 esc and holmes hobbies trailmaster sport 550 21t for my trx4 sport kit build

[@bozhang4378]

Holmes trailmaster sport is going for $59.50 on Amazon as of Feb 2022 vs $25 when the video was shot......

[@goreyboggs]

This is awesome I have been researching motors & speed controllers all day for my new gate keeper kit!!!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Great to hear

[@bajanredman3250]

Excellent and informative review as always. I must say its because of you I bought my Traxxas trx4 Sport. So far it has not disappointed. Great crawler! Now you have me thinking about motor and esc combo upgrade! Keep up the good work. I really enjoy the information you share. Thanks!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Great to hear! Takes a bit of effort to collect my random thoughts. :)

[@AcidAngel501]

Fusion 1800kv is perfect for a Trx4, fits right in and makes awesome power and control.

[@bajanredman3250]

@@AcidAngel501 Ok thanks! Will look into it

[@mgscheue]

Great recommendations. Another: the Mofo Torquebeast 2 is a drop-in replacement for the stock SCX24 motor. Just need to cut one leg off the battery tray. Excellent brushed upgrade.

[@RCReviewChannel]

We will try that for sure!!!!

[@seanbristow6757]

Copperhead 10 combo Fer my top contender on my trucks ,if not I go fusion pro 2300 on trail rigs works minty and cheaper in $ department thank you for this video was Kool to see some of the different ways to go ,should do 2in 1 comparison as well happy trails mate

[@kennethwelty1190]

1080 is my go too ecs. I have 1 Holmes motor in my Gen-8 V-1.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Sooo good for the money. That esc is money!

[@edselnaguit]

Hi. Question, can i use the hw 1080 on a traxxas slash 2wd using the stock brushed motor? Or the 1080 only applies to crawler? Thanks in advance.

[@d.khoung359]

I love my tekin RX4 and ROC HD combo. So strong I usually have to turn it way down.

[@RCReviewChannel]

good to hear.

[@SnarkyRC]

You should add the Carisma ARC-2 ESC to the list. It's one of the best brushed ESCs on the market. It's the same price as the Hobbywing 1080 but, with more settings and a better drag brake. It also has a better wiring layout and a lower profile. Another good brushed ESC is the Radiolink Cool 9030. Lots of good settings and can handle up to 4s.

[@jeeplivion]

Love my copperhead/slate combo. Waiting for my sensor wire upgrade!

[@RCReviewChannel]

What, no sensor wire and you got it working on a crawler? That's the great thing with the Copperhead is it can work both ways.

[@jeeplivion]

@@RCReviewChannel oh I still have the one that comes with it, works okay until it gets wet. I'm getting the castle harness that direct connects the copperhead to the slate.

[@jeffakers9752]

Hobbywing 1080 is a lot easier than you think. I have one. Super easy to program. But that just my opinion. And yes Holmes hobby motor. Great video.

[@RCReviewChannel]

It's not hard especially after the first time but those numbers and tiny fonts :). Also it's not like an iphone app for sure.

[@zeekmx1970]

I know you'll think I'm nutty yet I won't use anything except Traxxas certified parts unless there's no other option. Traxxas has given me more than I've paid for even if I got scammed a tiny bit. The box showed sunset paint job, When I opened the box it was the red on black. I wasn't deterred just more determined to achieve perfection. I use the red on black body as my accidental bashing body and have my show room black edition body kit with sticker pack NOT Applied when displaying.

[@Bigbillyrayfan]

Torque at Super low rpm with outrunners comes from the length of the lever arm more so than the intertia.

[@bonesworld7178]

Brother, thank you so much for all of your content. You cost me a lot of money hahaha. I did not hear your recommendation on the trail master sport which turn? I'll. Obviously I want slow speed. Speed controllability but good punch. Can you make a recommendation on which turn for the trailmaster? Crawmaster no right?

[@justanrcguy]

Thanks man, for all your videos 💪🏻💪🏻

[@RCReviewChannel]

Glad you like them! Not easy but someone's gotta do it.

[@kennethwelty1190]

I enjoy your channel good information. Keep up the good work. Have a good year in 2022.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Thanks, you too!

[@TheFoxalot]

Excellent review as usual. Thank you 🙏

[@rcarty419]

Always just professional honest unbiased opinion. 👍

[@RCReviewChannel]

I appreciate that!

[@memphisness4209]

First of all love your videos and all your input. You are much more real than the other guys. I wanted your opinion on what esc should my friend put into his scx6. It's a new truck but he has had nothing but problems with the esc. Would appreciate and help.

[@abrahammagana2286]

I always learn so much from your videos. Thank you! What motor and esc combo would you recommend for a stock TRX6?

[@richardcranium5393]

I really recommend the tsky or T-Rex, less than 20 bucks, you can't go wrong.

[@Mikey1962]

Great video. I've purchased the Hobbywing 1080 ESC twice now based on your recommendations in the past. It really is a great ESC for the money.

[@RCReviewChannel]

I’d buy it at twice the price

[@P0110X]

great list. I personally like the hobbywing xr10 combo, using it with a a rock racer, a rally and two drift cars, obviously with different kv for each operation, unfortunately it's not waterproof but is a cheap combo.

[@RCReviewChannel]

The whole Hobbywing line is incredible. Even the monster motors.

[@danielchan854]

Hi, have you tried the rhino ve80 bl combo? Here in the philippines and also thailand almost all the competitive crawlers use this for super low cg setups

[@kollinsendall1]

I know it’s been out for a long time but I can’t believe you didn’t review the Holmes BR-XL esc! That thing paired with their 540 magnums are heavenly

[@welcome2myworld1.o89]

Bro I love you no homo. You literally read my mind! Yesterday I was looking for another motor / ESC setup for my trx-6 because my hobbywing quicrun Fusion 1800kv does not allow me to give more juice to my servos because I'm still using the Traxxas receiver. And I can't run my trx-6 lights because I can't power them because you can't plug in the Traxxas high power BC because you can't power the BEC using the darn motor! Anyways now I think I know what to get LOL

[@RCReviewChannel]

Ha, ha, I'm very happy to help.

[@paulmastone6886]

Interesting list. Team brood is much better choice. Bruushed or brushless and outboard motors

[@paulnorton7444]

Great vid as always could you pls recommend a reasonably priced esc for a 1/10 crawler with a 390 brushed motor. Was gonna get a hobbywing 1060 but i think they are only for 540 motors.

[@RC_TRX4]

Hello. I don't know English. That's why I didn't understand what you said. Which one is best for trx-4 land rover defender? Thank you for your answer.

[@zonegamma8197]

HW1080+ Holmes Motor is soooo good for the price

[@RCReviewChannel]

It has 90% of the benefit that a brushless delivers.

[@gerardodominguezcalderon1869]

Hi there... I just got me an upgrade of the 1080 and a holmes hobbies 550 sport for my enduro rig; but there is a problem, the motor runs in the right direction but the speed is off... really fast backwards and slower forward!!! I already double checked my settings twice and they are all good. Maybe you have a solution. Thanks

[@EvgeniyRC]

Очень интересно. А где же в этом списке всеми любимая Мamba X ? Я сам пользуюсь Hobbywing Axe 550 и постоянно слышу от своих друзей - Попробуй Мamba X - она хороша ... Им точно не понравится ваше видео.! А я согласен с вами на все 100%. терпеть писк Castle - это невыносимо.😉

[@kenskens69]

Nice , my friend by any chance you have a video or Tutorial on how to set up different sproud or opinion combination somthing like that im having problems ,will like to set it up correct thanks

[@alittleofeverything7296]

I been looking for a video like this nice

[@RCReviewChannel]

You’re wel

[@tristianmason4730]

Thx for this video I keep Burning electronics up bc the faults don’t match up

[@RCReviewChannel]

Glad to help

[@thecandyman9308]

informative as always my man!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Appreciate it!

[@Nordlicht05]

The hobbywing 1080 is great. But I use some random brushed 540 with 35t on 3s... I am happy. But I am not the typical crawler driver.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Yeah, ESC is the first priority in an upgrading the motor system.

[@knoopx]

i dont understand why car electronics are so expensive. I switched over to drone escs with open source am32 firmware over a year ago and not looking back. For ~$50 you get a compact, passive and programmable 60A esc with a 1500kv 3542 brushless stubby and 6 channel receiver which performs as good or better than +$150 solutions. You can even switch to brushed motors using the same esc (i have a dual esc setup on a moa).

[@knoopx]

@@themountain59 yep, that's mostly the only limitation (amp rating), as a heavier build might pull more than they can deliver.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Competition and innovation is poor in car electronics. We're lucky to be using drone chargers and batteries now. So cheap and so good!

[@jephtheduck8770]

I use a sensorless hobbywing 3200kv (3660 SL I believe) in my trx4. In my personal experience it is fine is sensored really necessary for crawlers? I do not have any cogging issues or anything I guess it is nice to have though

[@RCReviewChannel]

For slow crawling and technical stuff, sensored is definetly needed. The TRX4 is not quite a high end rock crawler. Also, it's 2-speed tranny really helps it out with very low gearing.

[@HobbyZoneModelismo]

What about the new Furitek 1/10 stuff lizard 10 esc and motor with FOC as well? I am very curious on its performance against Hobby Wing.

[@zhugzug]

I was told that for my Crawler that if I got a brushless motor for it, that it may be too fast and twitchy for rock crawling. Is this true? I have a traxxas two a two speed transmission

[@dsimms6]

What do you recommend for a motor esc that can do some rock crawling but also rock racing kind of like what the Ryft can do?

[@Bigbillyrayfan]

Best for water running? Thanks!

[@Jamstorm-e5m]

I’m new and trying for a good esc and motor for my 1/10 grave digger monster truck.. brushless

[@Rcworldshop]

The hobbywing fusion is best.. quality functionality compact design run time time

[@RCReviewChannel]

Yes, it is unique and offers a compact and lightweight solution ideal for some rigs.

[@jdssurf]

What turn motor should I get for the trx4 sport, what’s the difference in turns

[@michaelmunger7688]

I am building F450 for speed. What would you recommend for motor and gears?

[@TheFuentesv]

question, I just start into the RC world and bought a WLToys 12429 and will like to upgrade the motor and ESC, I will go with the hobbywing 1080 ESC, which motor do you recommend from Holmes hobbies? my style will be 70 crawler 30 trail. So trailmaster 550 27 tor the 45t? Also, do I have to change the remote control? thanks

[@rafaeltamayo8099]

Hi , Can you recommend me one of these 5 best engines with high torque for my HG p801 please help , thanks

[@mktoysreborn]

I bought a mn82 with 280 motor. Can i upgrade to any of these motors? Or no?

[@michaeldorich4485]

It's a great little vehicle. It would be great if these cars were waterproof. I live in an area where we get snow. We already had snow and there are posts with drivers running their TRX4M in snow. Tower Hobbies carries some of the FMS cars. Are there many parts that are interchangeable?

[@bluestone75]

Will any upgrade such as esc upgrade.... affect my traxxas link controls ? Thanks for all your videos.

[@Texasbroski512]

Trying to decide on a copperhead 3800 slate or hobbywing fusion but the fusion is 200grams and the copperhead is 70grams plus another 197grams for the motor

[@RCReviewChannel]

If you don't need all that speed, the Hobbywing Fusion Pro 2300kv is our first choice

[@davidmarchand-smith4105]

Thanks for the review! I'm curious... what are your thoughts on the Spektrum Firma ESC/540 motor combo for crawlers?

[@kollinsendall1]

I’m very surprised the Holmes Hobby Magnum series isn’t in here. I’ve never had a motor with such smooth startup and torque.

[@RCReviewChannel]

ahh, haven't tried it. And couldn't put too many Holmes motors in this list. :)

[@doubleaaaron]

I enjoyed this video. Great information! I have been wondering about a few upgrades to my gen 8 v2. I was thinking about the Holmes hobby 21t 550 sport. I hear the drag brake works well if you keep the stock esc and use that motor. This is off topic as it's for my shelf queen skully 2wd stampede, but I have been looking for a faster motor and possibly esc combo for to keep it brushed. I have a ton of brushless bashers so I was just looking for something different if anyone has a suggestion. Thanks very much.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Change the Redcat ESC for sure with the 1080. The Redcat motor is not bad for that vehicle.

[@johnjones2194]

Hello please tell me if 4000kv would be much for a gatekeeper. Some crawling and wheel speed thanks. Your videos have got the best info buddy.

[@surfside75]

Reedy Radon 20t❤

[@half-bakedcruisers4218]

I am looking to put a holmes revolver motor in my TF2, which is sensorless and brushless motor. What ESC would you recommend for this application? I need a sensorless and brushless esc correct?

[@Steve-ee3mq]

What the motor turns of your top five?

[@NewLifeeight]

What decent priced brushed esc that will run an 8 turn motor ?

[@christophersiegel8738]

Im just getting into rc crawling and i have a axial wraith body but need a motor and esc what would u recommend. It has the stock trans in it

[@strictlybanks8612]

What type of battery dose the ecs use I have the exact same one and also how do you wire th motor and ecs up there’s the extra wire where does it go?

[@strictlybanks8612]

Nvm on the extra wire idk why I said

[@matthewmulhern7038]

thank you i was struggling and i'm just going to make a switch what would you recommend i have a heavy trx4 and i would like a 7.4 bec compatible

[@sitlos.]

Castle creation copperhead is what I have in my trx4 and it’s heavy. Works amazing!

[@Se530d]

Hobbywing fusion works well

[@matthewmulhern7038]

@@sitlos. what motor are you running

[@slick1523]

I just got a hobby wing fusion on Christmas and I love it

[@sitlos.]

@@matthewmulhern7038 I have the black limited edition copperhead combo, I think it’s the 1412 3200kv Sensored combo. Lots of torque and speed with 3s. Can do 4s also. My rig has brass upgrades anywhere they can go besides metal axle housings. So it’s heavy and that set up is about perfect. Great for trailing and great for rock crawling. Highly recommend if u can spend about $200 for electronics. Think it was $189? If u go hobbywing combo I would go for the v2 sets. Imo anyhow. Either way u go tho, good luck 👍

[@liamjones3028]

Hi i have a Mn99s crawler and was wondering if you could suggest a good motor and esc. Many thanks

[@knightmpw]

My crawler is a 1/10 . Its quite heavy.. do you recommend fusion SE 1200kv for that?

[@RCReviewChannel]

I would recommend the 2300 KV. It has enough low and modulation and great power as well.

[@aiizen_pr]

Hello i bought a axial wraith it has a 540 motor do i upgrade to a 550 and if i do which one?? Im new soo thanks in advance

[@lowercentenary]

Can anyone help and give a recommendation? I have a tamiya quick drive (toy level) and want to change the electronics but keep the stock motor. The motor is 280 so my question is what esc receiver etc will be a good match , i dont want to fry anything? Any idea at all?

[@nathanmeyer3855]

What would you recommend for cross rc 6x6 military truck? Its about 1:11 scale. Brushless motor, esc, and high torque steering servo.

[@RCReviewChannel]

I cannot say. The last one I tried, the EMO AT4 was very good.

[@Dowan_Gim]

Thank you.

[@RCReviewChannel]

You're welcome! This is cool info indeed.

[@wardesvanzyl8221]

Will i be able to put a yellow jacket on my trx 6?

[@ka4172]

Does the AXE Fusion need any servicing to have it constantly waterproof?

[@ThatsQuacktastic]

How do I know what kv I need? I dont understand all that.

[@hunterd.911]

Can you please do a review on the spektrum 2300kv 2 in 1? Part no: SPMXSEM1040B

[@silentjde]

The Fusion only comes in a 1200 and 1800, the 2300 is the spectrum version.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Interesting!!! Much appreciated.

[@shelbyGT40]

Do you have a video that has the first two esc and motor running together??

[@kalaganne]

I just couldn’t focus on the explanations cause of the LCG in the back 😄

[@BananaBabys]

What about furitek for 1/10?

[@rct2]

On the first motor you said brushed was not good in water? I do believe that is incorrect, the best way to bed in a brushed motor is to submerge it in water and run it really slow for ages. This helps bed in the brushes and has never seen me wrong for years. If I did not hear you right then I do apologise.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Very clean, pure water is ok for brushed motors. But most creeks, puddles and mud bogs are not. This water contains dirt and sediments and can easily ruin the motor brushes and armature if run for many minutes. Brushless will run in the muddiest water no problem.

[@taaraadv9144]

How come you did not review the Acis and Kratos 10-pole motors frome 3BROTHERSRC? They are litterally the smoothest sensored and non sensored motors available?

[@RCReviewChannel]

Always... out of stock.

[@taaraadv9144]

@@RCReviewChannel not their old motors. Their new 10-pole inrunners.