What are the differences between brushless and brushed DC geared motors?

As we all know, DC geared motors are widely used. Depending on different applications and requirements, they are divided into brushed, brushless, and other types. Among them, brushless and brushed DC geared motors are the most common. So, what are the differences between these two types of motors? We will mainly compare them in these three aspects:

I. Scope of Application

Brushless DC geared motors are often used in equipment with high control requirements and high speeds, such as in model aircraft motors and precision instruments. Relatively speaking, the requirements for motor speed are quite strict. Power equipment uses brushed motors, such as factory electric motors and household range hoods. Additionally, series-wound motors can also achieve very high speeds, but because the carbon brushes are prone to wear, their lifespan is often shorter than that of brushless geared motors.

II. Lifespan

The lifespan of a brushless DC geared motor is generally tens of thousands of hours, but this also depends on the bearings; better bearings result in a longer lifespan. The continuous working life of a brushed motor is only a few hundred to a little over a thousand hours. After reaching a certain lifespan, the carbon brushes need to be replaced; otherwise, it will easily cause bearing wear and damage to the motor!

III. Usage Effects

DC brushless geared motors generally use digital frequency conversion control, offering strong controllability. Speeds ranging from a few revolutions per minute (RPM) to tens of thousands of RPMs are relatively easy to achieve. Brushed geared motors, on the other hand, generally have a relatively constant operating speed after startup, and speed adjustment is not as easy. While series-wound motors can also reach 20,000 RPMs, their lifespan is shorter.

Both brushed and brushless DC geared motors have their own advantages, so the correct choice should be made based on the specific application and requirements.