FPV drone racing and freestyle are becoming increasingly popular among enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of flying. However, to achieve the best possible flight experience, it is essential to choose the right components for your FPV drone. One of the most important components is the brushless micro motor. But with so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to know which motor is the right fit for your drone.
We will discuss the basics of brushless micro motors for FPV drones and guide you through the process of selecting the best motor for your setup. We will cover the meaning of the numbers that come with these motors, which motor is best suited for different battery voltages, and which propeller size is most suitable for different motors. We will also discuss which motors are best for drones under 250g.
Brushless Motors: What Are They?
Brushless motors are used in drones because they are more efficient and reliable than brushed motors. Brushless motors use an electronic controller to direct the flow of current to the motor windings. This results in less maintenance and a more reliable motor.
Brushless motors come in different sizes and are typically labeled with a set of numbers, such as "2204" or "2306." The first two digits refer to the stator diameter in millimeters, while the second two digits indicate the stator height in millimeters. Generally, larger stator sizes provide more torque and power, while smaller sizes are more efficient and maneuverable.
KV Rating: What Is It?
When looking at brushless micro motors, you may come across the term KV rating. The KV rating refers to the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) per volt that the motor will spin. A higher KV rating means the motor will spin faster, while a lower KV rating means the motor will spin slower.
The KV rating is an important consideration when selecting a motor for your drone as it affects the overall performance of the motor. Higher KV ratings are typically better for smaller propellers and faster flying, while lower KV ratings are better suited for larger propellers and slower flying.
It's important to note that when choosing a motor, you should consider the overall setup of your drone, including the battery voltage and propeller size. A motor with a higher KV rating may not necessarily be the best option if it's not matched with the right battery voltage and propeller size.
Battery Voltage: Which One Is Best?
When choosing a brushless micro motor for your FPV drone, it is essential to consider the voltage of your battery. The voltage of your battery determines the amount of power that your motor can handle.
For instance, a 2S battery (7.4V) is best suited for smaller drones with 2-inch or 3-inch propellers and micro motors with a stator size of 1104 or 1306. A 3S battery (11.1V) can handle slightly larger motors with stator sizes of 1407 or 1506 and propellers up to 4 inches. For more power, a 4S battery (14.8V) is ideal and can handle motors with stator sizes up to 2207 and propellers up to 5 inches.
Propeller Size: Which One Is Right?
The propeller size you use on your drone also depends on the motor you choose. For instance, smaller propellers are more suitable for smaller motors, while larger propellers are better suited for larger motors.
When selecting propellers, it's essential to consider the size and pitch of the blades. The pitch of the blade refers to the angle at which the blade meets the air. A higher pitch produces more thrust, while a lower pitch produces less thrust but more control.
| Motor Size | KV | Battery | Propeller | Thrust |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1103 | 10000 | 1S (3.7V) | 2" - 2.5" | 50g - 70g |
| 1103 | 8000 | 2S (7.4V) | 2" - 2.5" | 80g - 120g |
| 1104 | 8500 | 2S (7.4V) | 2" - 3" | 90g - 150g |
| 1104 | 7000 | 3S (11.1V) | 2" - 3" | 100g - 180g |
| 1106 | 7500 | 2S (7.4V) | 2" - 3" | 120g - 200g |
| 1106 | 6000 | 3S (11.1V) | 2" - 3" | 150g - 250g |
| 1106 | 4500 | 4S (14.8V) | 2" - 3" | 180g - 300g |
| 1204 | 5000 | 2S (7.4V) | 2.5" - 3.5" | 100g - 170g |
| 1204 | 3500 | 3S (11.1V) | 3" - 4" | 120g - 210g |
| 1206 | 4500 | 3S (11.1V) | 2.5" - 3.5" | 170g - 280g |
| 1206 | 3500 | 4S (14.8V) | 4" - 5" | 250g - 400g |
| 1404 | 3500 | 4S (14.8V) | 3" - 5" | 300g - 500g |
*guideline values
Drones Under 250g: What Is The Best Setup?
For drones under 250g, it's crucial to keep the weight of the components in mind. Look for micro motors with lower stator sizes (1103 or 1104) and 2-inch or 3-inch propellers to keep the drone as lightweight as possible.
Additionally, choosing a 2S battery is ideal for keeping the overall weight of the drone down. A 2S battery can provide enough power for smaller micro motors to fly efficiently while keeping the overall weight of the drone as low as possible.
It's also important to note that when building a drone under 250g, it's essential to keep the build clean and organized to minimize any additional weight from excess wires or components. Keeping the overall weight down will increase flight times and maneuverability, making for a better FPV experience.
Overall, when building a drone under 250g, it's crucial to balance weight and performance. By choosing the right micro motor, battery, and propeller setup, you can achieve a lightweight yet powerful drone that's perfect for flying indoors or outdoors in calm conditions.
Choosing the right brushless micro motor for your FPV drone can be a complex process, but understanding the basics of stator size and battery voltage can go a long way in making an informed decision. By considering your specific needs and matching them with the appropriate motor and propeller size, you can achieve the best possible flight experience.