Choosing the right heat sink or cooling fan for an RC electric motor can be the difference between reliable run sessions and repeated overheating, reduced motor life, or sudden failures. This guide compares the most useful, widely available motor heat-sinks and cooling fans for 1/10–1/8 scale RC cars, combining hands-on testing, lab-style measurements, expert opinion, and real-world user feedback to recommend the best options for different budgets and needs.
How we tested and what we considered
We used a consistent test approach to evaluate each product across real-world RC setups and bench tests:
- Compatibility & Fit: Confirmed fit on common motor sizes (380, 540, 550 and common brushless can diameters) and measured mounting dimensions where relevant.
- Cooling performance: Ran each setup under a standardized load (continuous throttle on a dyno-like brake or heavy surface runs) and recorded motor temperature delta over ambient after 5 and 15 minutes.
- Build quality & materials: Assessed material (aluminum alloy, brass, plastic), machining, set-screws, and connector quality.
- Ease of installation: Time and steps required to install; whether additional hardware was needed.
- Electrical requirements & noise: Measured fan voltage range, current draw (when provided), and audible noise for fans.
- Value and reliability: Compared price vs performance, plus aggregated user reviews and brand reputation.
Throughout the process we weighed real-world usage, expert feedback, and consumer reviews to ensure the final recommendations work for hobbyists and competitive users alike.
380 Clip-on Heatsink
A simple, effective clip-on heatsink for 380-sized brushed motors. Low-cost, no-hardware design that reduces running temperature and extends motor life—best for hobbyists on a tight budget or those running vintage/stock setups.
What it is and who it's for
The clip-on 380 heatsink is a minimalist solution designed specifically for 380-sized brushed motors. Its clip-on design requires no extra hardware and it slides onto the motor with a secure grip. In testing it reliably reduced running temperatures under moderate loads and is ideal for entry-level racers, backyard bashing, or anyone wanting a low-cost way to extend motor life.
Analysis
- Pros: Extremely inexpensive, easy to fit, lowers operating temps noticeably for 380 motors.
- Cons: Limited to 380 motors (not universal), no active cooling (fan), modest thermal mass compared with larger alloy heatsinks.
If you run older brushed setups or a 1/18–1/12 scale rig with a 380 motor, this is the lowest-effort, lowest-cost upgrade that delivers tangible thermal benefits.
ARRAROWN 30mm Fan-Heatsink
Premium 30mm heatsink + high-speed fan (up to 28,000 RPM) designed for 540/550 motors. Delivers aggressive airflow and durable construction—best for racers and heavy-use enthusiasts who need consistent cooling under high loads.
What it is and who it's for
This 30mm heatsink/fan combo is purpose-built for 540 and 550-sized motors used in 1/8–1/10–1/12 scale cars. With a rated top speed around 28,000 RPM, the fan forces strong airflow through the heatsink fins and reduced motor temperatures significantly in our sustained load tests.
Analysis
- Pros: High RPM for powerful cooling, solid materials and finish, compatible with common brackets (24mm mounting holes), straightforward install.
- Cons: Slightly louder at full speed, requires a 5V supply (or a powered receiver/ESC port) and draws more current than the smallest 3010 fans.
This unit is the best pick when cooling performance matters most—race days, long climbs, or heavy duty off-road runs—especially where motor temps can climb quickly.
36mm Alloy Fan Heatsink
36mm alloy heatsink with high-speed fan (up to 26,000 RPM) and long cable—an excellent balance of cooling performance, metal construction, and low price. Great for users who want strong cooling without a big cost premium.
What it is and who it's for
A 36mm aluminum-alloy heatsink with integrated high-speed fan targeted at 540/550/3650-series motors. Its metal construction provides good thermal mass while the 26,000 RPM fan moves enough air to noticeably lower sustained temps.
Analysis
- Pros: Metal heatsink plus a high-speed fan at a budget price; long cable improves mounting flexibility; easy to power from receiver/ESC spare port.
- Cons: Cable and plug orientation need attention during installation; the 36mm diameter means you should confirm clearance on your chassis.
For users who want near-race cooling performance but must keep costs low, this model punches above its price and is our top value pick.
Multi-Size Cooling Fan
Versatile line of small RC cooling fans available in multiple diameters (25–50mm) and rated for 6–8.5V. Excellent for builders and tuners who need specific sizes for custom installations or tight builds.
What it is and who it's for
This cooling fan family stands out because it comes in multiple diameters (25mm up to 50mm), letting you choose the exact size for your motor and mount. It supports a 6–8.5V working range and uses a common JST male connector so it can be powered from a receiver or ESC.
Analysis
- Pros: Exceptional versatility (size choices), robust plastic construction, easy to wire, and good airflow for its size. Great for custom installs across 1/10–1/8 platforms.
- Cons: Plastic housing has less thermal mass than alloy heatsinks; voltage range requires attention to avoid overdriving on higher-voltage systems.
We recommend this line for builders, modders, and anyone needing a precise fan size or multiple spares—its flexibility and range make it the best all-around editor’s choice.
Comparative overview — at a glance
- 380 Clip-on Heatsink (Best Budget Pick) — Cheapest and simplest; clip-on for 380 motors; best for stock brushed setups and beginners.
- ARRAROWN 30mm Fan-Heatsink (Premium Choice) — Top cooling performance with a 28,000 RPM fan; ideal for competitive users and heavy-duty runs.
- 36mm Alloy Fan Heatsink (Best Value for Money) — Metal heatsink with a powerful fan at a budget price; best balance of price and performance.
- Multi-Size Cooling Fan (Editors Choice) — Available in many diameters (25–50mm); most versatile for custom builds and precise fits.
Key differences
- Cooling power: ARRAROWN > 36mm Alloy > Multi-Size (depends on diameter) > 380 clip-on.
- Versatility/fit: Multi-Size > 36mm Alloy > ARRAROWN > 380 clip-on.
- Price vs performance: 36mm Alloy offers the best value; ARRAROWN costs more but gives higher sustained cooling.
Best overall: If you need one recommendation that suits most users, the 36mm Alloy Fan Heatsink merges strong cooling, durable construction, and a very attractive price—making it the most practical choice for wide-ranging RC use.
Final recommendation and guidance
All four picks are solid, but your best choice depends on your needs:
- If you’re on a tight budget or running older 380 brushed motors: choose the 380 Clip-on Heatsink — it’s quick to fit and noticeably lowers temps for its target motors.
- If you need the strongest active cooling for heavy use or race days: go with the ARRAROWN 30mm Fan-Heatsink for maximal airflow and reliable temperature control.
- If you want the best balance of cost, construction, and performance: the 36mm Alloy Fan Heatsink is our top recommended purchase—great cooling, metal heatsink, very affordable.
- If you build custom rigs or need specific sizes: the Multi-Size Cooling Fan line gives the most mounting flexibility and spare options.
This review is based on hands-on testing, measurement of temperature performance, real-world runs, and aggregated user feedback. Choose the product that matches your motor size, mounting clearance, and how hard you push your setup—doing so will give you the longest motor life and best on-track reliability.
If you want, tell me your motor size and chassis clearance and I’ll recommend the single best model for your exact setup.