In 2025, drone electric motors, particularly brushless motors, will be the best choice for most drone users. These motors last longer and work better than regular DC motors. Brushless motors also make less noise. Now, 86% of drone motors are brushless, indicating that most people prefer them. You can still use brushed motors if you want to save money. Brushed motors are good for starting with FPV racing drones. Think about what you want your drone to do and how much money you have. Decide how much work you want to do to keep your drone working. You can trust Retek Motion to help you pick the right drone electric motor.
Key Takeaways
- Brushless motors are the top pick for most drone users in 2025. They last a long time, work well, and need less care.
- Brushed motors cost less and are simple to repair. This makes them good for beginners or easy drone projects.
- Think about what you need and how much you can spend when picking a motor. Brushless motors work better, but brushed motors are great for learning.
- Brushless motors let drones fly longer and use power better. Your drone can go farther with one charge.
- Retek Motion can help you pick the right motor for your drone. They make sure you get the best results for what you need.
Drone Electric Motor Choice in 2025
Brushless Motors: The Top Pick
You want your drone to work well and last long. It should not need a lot of fixing. In 2025, most people will pick brushless motors for their drones. Experts and companies say brushless motors are the best. They use less battery and give more power. This means your drone can fly longer. Brushless motors are also quiet, so they do not bother people or animals.
Tip: Brushless motors need less fixing. They do not have brushes, so fewer parts break. You will not spend much time on repairs.
Here is a table that shows why brushless motors are popular in 2025:
| Feature | Explanation |
|---|---|
| High Efficiency | Uses less power, so drones fly longer |
| Longer Lifespan | No brushes, so motors last a long time |
| Low Noise | Runs quietly, does not make much sound |
| High Torque-to-Weight | Gives strong power but is not heavy |
| Reduced Maintenance | Needs less fixing, good for flying often |
Most drones use brushless motors because they can handle lots of power. This lets you use bigger propellers and carry more weight. The 2212 brushless motor is great for beginners. It fits many drones and works well for small and medium ones. If you want your drone to move smoothly and stay steady, brushless motors help. They stop your drone from moving slowly or getting too hot.
Retek Motion says brushless motors are best for people who want top performance. Their team helps you pick the right brushless motor for your drone. This is true if you fly for fun, work, or racing.
Brushed Motors: When Simplicity Matters
You might want brushed motors if you like things simple and cheap. Brushed motors have a basic design. They are easy to use and fix. Brushed motors cost less because they use simple parts. If you are new to drones, brushed motors are a good way to start.
Note: Brushed motors need new brushes and cleaning sometimes. You will spend more time fixing them, but it is not hard to do.
Here are the main reasons beginners like brushed motors:
- Brushed motors are cheaper than brushless motors.
- You can fix and change parts easily.
- The design is simple, so you learn how motors work.
- Brushed motors are good for basic FPV racing drones and low-cost builds.
Brushed motors do not last as long as brushless motors. The brushes wear out, so you must replace them. Brushed motors are also louder and use more battery. If you want your drone to fly longer or do harder jobs, brushed motors may not be enough.
Factors Influencing Your Choice
When you pick between brushless and brushed motors, think about a few things. Experts say these points are important:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Technological Evolution | New designs and materials make motors better and stronger. |
| Regulatory Frameworks | Safety and environmental rules change what motors can do. |
| Pricing Dynamics | Prices change when more motors are made or when they get better. |
| Global Economic Factors | Things like shipping and world events change prices and supply. |
Pick your drone motor based on what you want, how much you can spend, and how much fixing you want to do. Brushless motors are best for most people in 2025. But brushed motors are still good for simple and cheap drones.
Retek Motion’s team helps you choose the right motor. You get advice and many motor choices, so your drone works well.
Brushed Motors vs Brushless Motors: Key Differences
How Brushed Motors Work
Brushed motors have a simple design. They use brushes and a commutator. The brushes touch the commutator to send electricity. This makes the motor spin. When the brushes touch, they create friction and heat. You need to change the brushes often because they wear down. Brushed motors are louder than other motors. They can mess with your drone’s electronics. Many beginner drones use brushed motors. They cost less and are easy to fix.
Here is a quick look at how brushed motors work in your drone’s electric motor system:
| Characteristic/Drawback | Description |
|---|---|
| Friction and Heat | Brushed motors make more friction and heat because the brushes touch the commutator. |
| Noise | They make a lot of noise. This noise can bother your drone’s electronics. |
| Maintenance | The brushes wear out fast. You need to replace them often. |
| Efficiency | Brushed motors are not as efficient. They speed up slower than other motors. |
How Brushless Motors Work
Brushless motors have a more advanced design. These motors do not have brushes inside. An electronic speed controller (ESC) controls the electricity. The ESC sends power to the motor’s coils. This makes the rotor spin. There is less friction and heat. Brushless motors are quiet and last longer. You only need to check the bearings sometimes. Most new drones use brushless motors. They work better and need less fixing.
Key parts of brushless motors include:
- Stator: This part stays still and makes a magnetic field.
- Rotor: This part spins and has magnets.
- Bearings: These help the rotor spin smoothly.
- Controller: This part changes the speed and direction.
Comparing Core Features
You should compare both motor types before you pick one for your drone. Here is a table that shows the main differences:
| Feature | Brushed Motors | Brushless Motors |
|---|---|---|
| Commutation | Uses brushes and a commutator | Uses electronic communication |
| Efficiency | 75-80% efficiency | 85-90% efficiency |
| Maintenance | Needs new brushes often | Needs little fixing, just bearings |
| Lifespan | 1,000 to 8,000 hours | 10,000 to 100,000 hours |
| Cost | Costs less at first | Costs more at first, but it saves money later |
Brushless motors are about 1.5 times more efficient than brushed motors. Brushed motors need more repairs and do not last as long. Brushless motors cost more at first, but you spend less on fixing them. If you want a motor that lasts longer and works better, pick brushless. Brushed motors are still good for simple or cheap drones. They help you learn about DC motor basics.
Drone Performance Comparison
Efficiency and Power Output
You want your drone to fly far and work well. The motor you pick matters a lot. Brushless motors are better for motor efficiency and energy efficiency. These motors use new technology to lower friction and energy loss. You get more power and longer flights.
Here is a table that shows how efficient brushed motors and brushless motors are:
| Feature | Brushed Motor | Brushless Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 50%–70%, with lots of energy lost from friction | 80%–90%, high efficiency with little energy lost |
Brushless motors give more power. They spin faster and keep torque steady. Your drone can go faster and carry more weight. Brushed motors lose energy because brushes slow them down. This makes them not as good for fast drones.
- Brushless motors work better and give more power than brushed motors.
- They go faster and use less energy because there is no brush friction.
- Brushed motors lose power because brushes slow them down.
- Brushless motors spin faster and keep torque steady.
- No brushes means brushless motors can spin faster and make more power.
- Brushless motors are better in speed and power than brushed motors.
- They are best for fast drones because they are efficient.
If you want your drone to work its best, pick brushless motors. Retek Motion says brushless motors are best for people who want strong power efficiency and energy efficiency.
Durability and Maintenance Needs
You want your drone to last long and not break often. Brushless motors are strong and need little fixing. These motors do not have brushes, so they do not wear out fast. You only need to check the bearings sometimes. Brushless motors can last thousands of hours. Some people say their motors last up to ten years if they take care of them.
Here is a table that shows how long each motor type lasts:
| Motor Type | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Brushed Motor | Short life (tens to hundreds of hours) |
| Brushless Motor | Long life (thousands of hours) |
You will see that brushless motors need very little fixing. You just check the bearings and keep them clean. Brushed motors need fixing a lot. The brushes and commutator wear out fast. You must change these parts often to keep the motor working.
- Brushed motors need fixing often because the brushes and commutator wear out.
- Brushless motors need little fixing, mostly checking bearings.
If you want your drone to fly more and break less, pick brushless motors. Fast drones use brushless motors because they last longer and need little fixing. Retek Motion has brushless motors that are made to last and are easy to care for.
Cost and Value
You may think brushed motors are better because they cost less at first. Brushed motors use simple parts, so you pay less when you buy them. But you should look at the total value over time. Brushless motors cost more at first, but you save money later. You spend less on fixing and changing parts because they last much longer.
Let’s compare what you get from each motor type:
- Brushed motors cost less at first, but you pay more for fixing and new parts.
- Brushless motors cost more at first, but you save money later because they last longer and need less fixing.
- Fast drones use brushless motors because they give better motor performance and energy efficiency.
- If you want the best value, brushless motors are the best choice for most drone users in 2025.
Retek Motion helps you find the right mix of cost and performance. Their team helps you pick the best motor for your needs, whether you want a simple DC motor for a cheap drone or a top brushless motor for a fast drone.
Tip: Always think about the total cost, not just the price you pay first. Brushless motors give you better performance, last longer, and cost less to fix.
You can see that brushless motors win in every way: efficiency, power, strength, fixing, and value. Brushed motors still work for simple or cheap drones, but brushless motors are the best for drone performance in 2025.
Practical Considerations for Drone Electric Motors
Flight Time and Battery Life
You want your drone to fly for a long time. You also want the battery to last. Brushless motors help with this. They use less energy and cause less friction. This means your drone can fly farther on one charge. Brushed motors use more power because the brushes slow things down. You will notice shorter flights and need to change batteries more often with brushed motors. If you do harder tricks, your drone needs more power. This makes flight time shorter. The air and altitude can change how well your drone flies. High places make the air thin, so propellers work less well. This makes your drone stay in the air for less time. Brushless motors are strong and can make your drone go fast. But they use more battery when flying fast. Brushed motors are not as strong. They can help your drone fly longer, but only if you go slowly.
- Brushless motors help your drone fly longer and save battery.
- Brushed motors can fly longer only if you go slowly.
Maintenance for Brushed Motor vs Brushless Motors
You want to spend less time fixing your drone. Brushless motors are easy to care for. You just check the bearings and clean them sometimes. Brushed motors need more fixing. The brushes wear out fast, so you must replace them often. After each flight, look at your motors and propellers for damage. Clean them with air and check your battery. Clean and check the ESCs often to keep your drone working well. Keep your drone in a safe case. Do not let it get too hot or cold.
| Motor Type | Maintenance Costs |
|---|---|
| Brushed | Higher because you fix them more often |
| Brushless | Lower, just check bearings sometimes |
Best Use Cases: Beginner, Hobbyist, Professional
You need the right motor for your skill and what you want to do. Beginners like brushed motors because they are simple and steady. Hobbyists pick brushless motors for good power and many uses. Professionals use brushless motors for speed and strong performance. Brushed motors are good for new pilots. Brushless motors work for fun flying and trying new things. Fast brushless motors are best for racing and hard jobs.
| User Type | Key Factors for Motor Selection |
|---|---|
| Photography & Cinematic | Quiet motors and smooth flying help cameras stay steady |
| Agricultural | Motors that lift heavy things and resist dust and water |
| Racing | Light motors with high KV for fast moves and quick turns |
| Industrial/Survey | Motors that last long and work all the time need backup and save energy |
Tip: Pick brushless motors if you want pro results and less fixing. Choose brushed motors if you want a simple, cheap drone or want to learn about dc motor basics.
Making the Right Choice with Retek Motion
When to Choose Brushless Motors
You should choose brushless motors if you want top performance from your drone’s electric motor. Brushless motors give you more power, longer flight times, and less noise. You will spend less time on repairs because brushless motors do not have brushes that wear out. If you fly your drone for work, racing, or photography, brushless motors help you get the best results. You can use brushless motors for heavy lifting, fast speeds, and smooth flying. Retek Motion offers many brushless options for every type of drone.
When to Choose Brushed Motors
You may want brushed motors if you are new to drones or want a simple build. Brushed motors cost less and help you learn about how a DC motor works. You can fix brushed motors easily and replace parts without much trouble. Brushed motors work well for small, light drones or for practice. If you do not need long flight times or high power, brushed motors can meet your needs. Retek Motion also provides quality brushed motors for basic drones.
Quick Decision Checklist
Use this checklist to help you pick the right motor for your drone:
| Question | Choose Brushless | Choose Brushed |
|---|---|---|
| Do you want long flight times? | ✅ | |
| Do you need high power or speed? | ✅ | |
| Is low maintenance important to you? | ✅ | |
| Are you building a budget or practicing drone? | ✅ | |
| Do you want to learn about motor basics? | ✅ |
Tip: Retek Motion’s experts can help you compare brushless and brushed motors. You can find the right fit for your drone project from their wide product range.
You get the best results in 2025 when you choose brushless motors for your drone’s electric motor. These motors offer strong power, long life, and less maintenance. Always think about your needs, budget, and how you use your drone. Use this checklist to help you decide:
- Confirm voltage compatibility for every motor.
- Choose the right KV for your drone’s job.
- Match your ESC and battery to the motor.
- Test thrust and efficiency before flying.
Retek Motion gives you expert support and a wide range of DC motor options.
FAQ
What is the main benefit of using brushless motors in drones?
Brushless motors work better and last longer. They are quiet and do not need much fixing. Your drone can fly farther and move smoothly.
Can you replace brushed motors with brushless motors on any drone?
You need to make sure they fit. Brushless motors need electronic speed controllers (ESCs). Your drone’s frame and electronics must work with the new motors. Always check your drone’s details before you change anything.
How often should you maintain drone motors?
Check brushless motors every few months. Clean the bearings and look for dust. Brushed motors need more care. Change the brushes and clean the commutator after 10–20 flights.
Are brushless motors worth the higher price?
| Feature | Brushless Motor | Brushed Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | Longer | Shorter |
| Maintenance | Lower | Higher |
| Performance | Better | Basic |
Brushless motors save you money over time. They last longer and need less fixing.
