How to Choose BLDC Motor For FPVs

The Ultimate Guide to BLDC Motors for FPV Drones: 7″, 10″, and 15″

As an R&D Engineer here at Atom Aviation, I often see pilots trying to scale up their builds using standard 5-inch components. But when you step into the world of 7-inch long-range, 10-inch cinelifters, or 15-inch heavy-lift platforms, the physics changes entirely. You need components that can handle the increased torque requirements and heat dissipation.

The heart of these large builds is the BLDC motor. Today, I’m breaking down the best motors for these classes that we have tested and stocked right here at Mall of Aviation, comparing options from GEPRC, Emax, and MAD Motors.

---

1. 7-Inch Long-Range / Freestyle Hybrid

For a 7-inch build, you are typically looking for a balance between flight time and agility. You don’t want a motor that is too heavy, but you need enough stator volume to spin a 7-inch prop efficiently without overheating.

Our Recommendation:

• Emax ECOII-2807-1300KV Brushless Motor

  • 

    Why we chose it: The 2807 stator size is the “gold standard” for 7-inch builds. At 1300KV, this motor is perfect for 6S LiPo setups, giving you smooth cruising efficiency for long-range mountain surfing while retaining enough punch for freestyle maneuvers. The ECO II series is also incredibly durable and cost-effective.

---

2. 10-Inch Cinelifter & Endurance

Stepping up to 10-inch props requires a significant jump in stator size. These drones are often carrying heavy cinema cameras (like a RED Komodo) or huge batteries for 30+ minute flight times. You need torque, not high RPM.

Option A (The Workhorse):

• GEPRC EM3115 900KV Motor

  • Why we chose it: This motor is a beast. With a massive 3115 stator, it generates huge torque to spin 10-inch props with authority. The 900KV rating is optimized for 6S-8S setups, ensuring your motors stay cool even under heavy loads.

Option B (The Premium Choice):

• MAD Motor – BSC 3115 900KV FPV Drone Motor

  • Why we chose it: MAD Motors specializes in heavy-lift industrial applications. Their BSC 3115 offers slightly higher efficiency and premium bearing quality compared to standard FPV motors. If you are building a rig for professional commercial work where vibration minimization is critical, this is the motor to choose.

---

3. 15-Inch Heavy-Lift Industrial

This is the industrial territory. At 15 inches, standard “FPV” motors simply won’t cut it. You need high-voltage, low-KV motors capable of swinging massive props without burning out.

Our Recommendation:

• GEPRC EM4218 350KV Motor (Check availability in Motors section)

  • 

    Why we chose it: The EM4218 is a massive motor designed specifically for 13-15 inch builds. With a super-low 350KV rating, it is designed for high-voltage setups (8S-12S), allowing you to spin large props slowly and efficiently. This provides the immense lift required for heavy payloads or extreme endurance.

  • Pro Tip: Pair this with our Shadow X 15″ FPV Frame Kit for a complete industrial-grade solution.

---

Comparison: GEPRC vs. Emax vs. MAD

---

How to Choose the Best Motor (R&D Tips)

1. Match Stator to Prop Size:

   • 7-inch Prop: Use 2806.5 or 2807 stators.

   • 10-inch Prop: Use 3110 or 3115 stators.

   • 15-inch Prop: Use 40mm+ wide stators (like the 4218).

2. Watch the KV:

   • As prop size goes up, KV must come down. A 10-inch prop on a high KV motor will burn it out instantly. Stick to 1300KV for 7″, 900KV for 10″, and 350-500KV for 15″.

3. Check Your Battery Voltage:

   • Ensure your motor’s KV is matched to your battery cell count (6S, 8S, or 12S).

For any custom industrial drone requirements or help with your build, feel free to reach out to our team at Atom Aviation.

Ready to build? Shop our full collection of motors here:

👉 Shop Drone Motors at Mall of Aviation