Best RC Electric Motors for Airplanes of 2025

Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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RC electric motors for airplanes are becoming increasingly popular in the world of remote-controlled aviation. These motors are powered by rechargeable batteries and offer a quieter and more efficient alternative to traditional gas-powered engines. They are also easier to maintain and can be used indoors or outdoors without any harmful emissions. RC electric motors come in a range of sizes and power levels to suit different types of aircraft and flying styles. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced pilot, there is an electric motor out there that can enhance your flying experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1
RC Airplane Motor and Accessory Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
#TOP 2
RC Brushless Motor+ESC+Servos+Propeller
ftb score rating icon 9.8
#TOP 3
KingVal 3548 900KV Brushless Motor
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 RC Electric Motors for Airplanes

#TOP 1

RC Airplane Motor and Accessory Kit

Teror
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RC Airplane Motor,2212 KV2200 Motor + 40A XT60T ESC + SG90 Servo + 6035 Propeller Accessory Kit for RC Aircraft
ftb score rating icon 9.9
FTB Score

This RC Airplane Motor and Accessory Kit includes a 2212 KV2200 Motor, 40A XT60T ESC, SG90 Servo, and 6035 Propeller. The ESC can calibrate the throttle range for compatibility with different transmitters and supports multiple programming methods. The micro servo has stable and professional performance, and the entire kit is compatible with both lithium and Ni-MH batteries. The installation is simple, saving time and effort.

What We Like
Compatible with both lithium and Ni-MH batteries
ESC can calibrate the throttle range for compatibility with different transmitters
Micro servo has stable and professional performance
#TOP 2

RC Brushless Motor+ESC+Servos+Propeller

FPVDrone
ME01
FPVDrone RC A2212 1400KV Brushless Motor+30A ESC+SG90 Servos+8060 Propeller for RC Plane Airplane
ftb score rating icon 9.8
FTB Score

This RC Electric Motor set includes a 30A ESC with a linear BEC output, SG90 Servos, and an A2212 1400kv Brushless Outrunner Motor with T plug and 3.5mm banana connectors. The motor is suitable for 2-3 Li-Poly batteries and the ESC supports 2-4S LiPo batteries. The SG90 Servos operate at 4.8V-6V and 0.12 sec / 60 deg (4.8 V). This set is perfect for RC Quadcopter Helicopter Aircraft Copter Multi-copter and effectively avoids welding problems.

What We Like
Includes brushless motor, ESC, servos, and propeller
Linear BEC output for ESC supports 2-4S LiPo batteries
SG90 Servos operate at 4.8V-6V and 0.12 sec / 60 deg (4.8 V)
#TOP 3

KingVal 3548 900KV Brushless Motor

KingVal
C3548 900KV Kit
900KV
KingVal Replacement 3548 900KV Brushless Motor with Screw Kit Compatible with RC Fixed-Wing Airplane Glider Aircraft
ftb score rating icon 9.6
FTB Score

The KingVal Brushless Motor is designed for optimal performance in RC fixed-wing airplanes and gliders. Its 14-pole, 12-slot construction provides high torque, ensuring you get the power needed for smooth flights. The CNC machined aluminum heatsink can effectively dissipates heat, enhancing the motor's durability and performance. With high purity copper windings, this motor maximizes efficiency, allowing you to enjoy longer flight times. Additionally, the precision balanced rotor ensures a smooth operation, which translates to better reliability and higher RPMs during your flights.

What We Like
High torque design
Efficient heat dissipation
Maximized energy efficiency
Smooth operation
#TOP 4

Chazcool RC Plane Motor Kit

Chazcool
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Chazcool RC Plane Motor Kit, RC Airplane Motor 2212 KV2200 Motor + 40A XT60T ESC + SG90 Servo + 6035 Propeller Accessory Kit, RC Airplane Power Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.4
FTB Score

The Chazcool RC Motor Kit offers excellent features for your remote-controlled aircraft. Made from durable metal and plastic, it ensures easy installation and compatibility with lithium-ion batteries. This means you can easily adapt it to different brushless motors, saving you time and effort. The kit also boasts a wear-resistant and sturdy design, allowing for a longer lifespan. Its micro servo is lightweight yet powerful, delivering stable performance with low noise. This makes it ideal for a variety of RC models, enhancing your flying experience.

What We Like
Easy installation
Durable materials
Lightweight micro servo
Versatile compatibility

uxcell 4PCS DC 3V Micro Motor for RC Models

a19032000ux0462
4x12mm 4PCS
uxcell 4PCS DC 3V Coreless Micro Motor 412 4x12mm for Airplane Model RC
ftb score rating icon 9.3
FTB Score

The uxcell 4PCS DC 3V Coreless Micro Motor is designed for use in RC aircraft, mobile phones, and other electronic vibration equipment. With a stable and reliable performance, it delivers high speed, low noise, and high efficiency. Its low resistance ensures smooth operation. The motor should not be locked while the electric is on, as this could cause it to burn out.

What We Like
Stable and reliable performance
Low noise, high speed, and high efficiency
Low resistance for smooth operation
#TOP 6

Goolsky SURPASS 2216 1120KV Brushless Motor for RC Airplanes

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Goolsky Original SURPASS High Performance 2216 1120KV 14 Poles Brushless Motor for RC Airplane Fixed-wing
ftb score rating icon 9.1
FTB Score

The Goolsky SURPASS 2216 1120KV Brushless Motor is designed for RC Airplanes. Its 14 Pole 12 slot hi-torque motor design, CNC machined 6061 T6 billet aluminum heatsink can, and high purity copper windings make it highly efficient. The motor features High RPM ABEC5 oversized bearings and a precision balanced rotor, ensuring smoothness, reliability, and maximum RPM. Additionally, the motor is engineered with a Stator-super thin (0.2mm) laminations for maximum energy conversion.

What We Like
Efficient and high-performance
Precision balanced rotor for smooth operation
Designed with high purity copper windings for maximum energy conversion
#TOP 7

E-flite Power 32 Brushless Outrunner Motor 770Kv 3.5mm Bullet EFLM4032A

EFLM4032A
E-flite Power 32 Brushless Outrunner Motor 770Kv EFLM4032A Electric Brushless Motors Air
ftb score rating icon 8.9
FTB Score

The E-flite Power 32 Motor is a high-quality RC Electric Motor that provides an equivalent power to a 30-36 size glow engine for sport and scale airplanes that weigh 3.5-6 lb. It is an ideal option for 25-36 size 3D airplanes up to 4.5 lb and models that require up to 800 watts of power. This motor is a high-torque, direct-drive alternative to inrunner brushless motors. It includes a mount, prop adapter, and mounting hardware. With the E-flite Power 32 Motor, you can enjoy excellent performance and stability for your RC airplane. Its versatility makes it perfect for a wide range of applications, and its high power output ensures you can handle any challenge.

What We Like
High-quality performance
Direct-drive alternative
Wide range of applications
#TOP 8

LE2204 1800KV Brushless Motor for RC Airplane

LE2204
Readytosky LE2204 1800KV Brushless Motor 2-3S for RC Airplane Fixed-Wing Airplane Aeroplane KT F3P
ftb score rating icon 8.8
FTB Score

This brushless motor is designed for RC fixed-wing aeroplanes and airplanes. It has a model number of LE2204 1800KV and can fit 2-3 Li-Po batteries. The bolt holes spacing is 31.5mm/1.24in, and it comes with 3.5mm banana plug adapters. This motor is perfect for those who want to fly their RC airplanes with ease and efficiency.

What We Like
Designed for RC fixed-wing aeroplanes and airplanes
Fits 2-3 Li-Po batteries
Comes with 3.5mm banana plug adapters
#TOP 9

FLASH HOBBY D2836 Brushless Outrunner Motor

FH D2836-1500
1500kv
FLASH HOBBY D2836 Brushless Outrunner Motor 2~4S Helicopter RC Motor for RC Airplane Fixed-Wing Drone FPV (1500KV)
ftb score rating icon 8.7
FTB Score

The FLASH HOBBY D2836 Brushless Outrunner Motor is a 1500KV motor with high torque design, 42SH magnets and purity copper windings, and is compatible with 7~9 inch propeller. It provides incredible power and thrust in a lightweight package, with a precision balanced rotor for reliability and maximum RPM. The motor is also durable, stable, and has high torque. Each motor is dynamically balanced and comes with a crush-resistant damping bearing to eliminate vibration effectively. The RC electric motor mount is 1619 mm (M34) and the motor size is 28 x 36 mm.

What We Like
High torque design
Precision balanced rotor for reliability and maximum RPM
Eliminates vibration effectively
Lightweight and durable
#TOP 10

FLASH HOBBY D2836 880KV Brushless Motor

D2836
880kv
FLASH HOBBY D2836 880KV 2-4S Brushless Outrunner Motor for Rc Multicopter Airplane Helicopter (880kv)
ftb score rating icon 8.7
FTB Score

The FLASH HOBBY Brushless Motor is a powerful choice for your RC multicopter or airplane. With a maximum output of 243W, it supports various propeller sizes, allowing you to customize your setup for optimal performance. Its advanced design features a high torque motor with precision balanced rotor testing, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. The CNC machined aluminum bell and high-quality bearings enhance durability, making this motor reliable for intense use. Additionally, the copper wire winding is resistant to high temperatures, providing peace of mind during extended flights.

What We Like
High power output
Durable construction
Customizable propeller options
High-temperature resistance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size electric motor do I need for my RC plane?

The size of the electric motor needed for an RC plane is determined by its power, measured in watts. As a general guideline, you can use 100 watts per pound for sport flying, 150 watts per pound for aggressive aerobatics, and 200 watts per pound for 3D flying. This estimation helps ensure that the motor provides sufficient power for the desired performance of the RC plane.

2. How much rpm is needed to fly an RC plane?

The required RPM (revolutions per minute) to fly an RC plane depends on factors such as the propeller size, pitch speed, and desired thrust. For example, a 6x4 APC E propeller typically needs around 18630 RPM to produce the necessary thrust. To estimate the power needed, you can consider the static pitch speed and desired thrust. It is recommended to use the appropriate propeller P/D (Pitch/Diameter) ratio for the specific model and flight requirements.

3. What is a good power to weight ratio for an RC plane?

The power-to-weight ratio for an RC plane is expressed as a ratio between the thrust produced and the weight of the plane. For gliders or light and slow-flying model aircraft, a ratio of 0.3:1 to 0.4:1 is suitable. Trainer models typically have a ratio of 0.5:1 to 0.8:1, while fast models typically have a ratio of 0.8:1 and higher. The power-to-weight ratio is an important factor in determining the performance and capabilities of an RC plane.

4. How big of an area do you need to fly an RC plane?

The required flying area for an RC plane depends on the wingspan and type of aircraft. For example, aircraft with wingspans over 72 inches, such as giant scale, RC scale aerobatics, and turbine-powered jet aircraft, may require a flight area of around 2000 feet to the left and right of the pilot and 1500 feet in front of the pilot. This ensures a safe and adequate space for maneuvering and maintaining control during flight.

5. How many channels do you need for an RC plane?

A standard RC transmitter for an RC plane typically has 6 channels. These channels are used to control different components of the plane, including the rudder, elevator, ailerons, motor, and auxiliary functions. Each channel controls a different motor or feature on the plane. Having multiple channels allows for precise control and maneuverability of the RC plane during flight.

Editor's Notes

During our rc electric motor for airplanes research, we found 24 rc electric motor for airplanes products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,049 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rc electric motors for airplanes list. We found that most customers choose rc electric motors for airplanes with an average price of $20.64.

The rc electric motors for airplanes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rc electric motors for airplanes, including Teror, FPVDrone, KingVal, Chazcool, uxcell. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 78 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by

Jimmy Roof is a toy designer who lives in Chicago with his family. He works in a big toy firm, so he is surrounded by toys every day. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in children's toys, baby products and preschool education. Jimmy Roof often publishes articles related to toys on key websites.