EC3 vs XT60: Which One To Go For?

Introduction

Confused about choosing the right connector for your RC batteries? EC3 and XT60 are two great options. However, if you’re new to the RC world, you may get confused about choosing one.

Fret not! All you need to know is their differences and fields of applications. And we’re here to help you know that.

So which one to choose between, ec3 vs xt60

Ec3 has 3.5 mm gold bullet connections placed in a two-position casing. XT60 on the other hand has 3mm small bullet connections and is composed of strong nylon. EC3 is used for eFlite, Blade line helicopters, and RC car batteries. XT60 is used for applications that require up to 65A.

This information might not be enough for you to make a choice. We have all the details you require in our article. So keep reading!

EC3 vs. XT60: Head-to-Head Comparison

Before jumping straight into the technical details, it’s better to grasp an idea about these connectors first. Here we have provided a basic difference between these two. It will help you understand the features and their differences better. Basic differences can come in handy if you’re confused between DX8 and DX6. 

EC3 vs. XT60: Detailed Comparison

EC3 and XT60 are pretty popular connectors for RC batteries. Comparing ec3 and xt60 is a lot more complicated than Rustler and Stampede.  

To understand their differences, you’ll need to know when and where to use these connectors. Let’s take a look into their builds and other differences.

Bullet Connection

EC3 connectors are just normal 3.5mm gold bullet connections. XT60 battery connector is composed of strong nylon. And it has gold-plated sockets molded into it.

EC3 connector uses the hollow ends of pins to glue wires, your plastic housing will not melt. These pins are snapped into the junction, which is why there’s no melting strain.

EC3 connector does not require heat shrink to be insulated. The issue comes when you try to replace or reuse something. RC battery connector type can’t be replaced because the wires run into the connector housing.

XT60 connectors are superior to EC3 connectors. Because they are easier to plug and unplug. They are small 3mm bullets. Additionally, they are made of nylon. This protects them against melting and pin loosening difficulties. 

This generic XT60’s design eliminates reverse polarity. And also the link is rock-solid when connected in. There are some external soldering pins that require heat shrink encapsulation. Yet this connector type can still be replaced and reused.

Capacity

The ability of an amplifier to carry more current than usual is referred to as burst power. It also assures that the system is free of distortion. However, it only lasts for a brief time.

The capacity of ec3 and xt60 is somewhat similar. No matter what RC device you’ve got, there will be a battery connector for the task. The factors such as how easy they are to solder. And the current-carrying capability of the plug all plays a role in your choice. 

Connection 

EC3s provide an extremely secure connection that can be difficult to break. They don’t melt and don’t require heat shrink for insulation. For that reasons it’s difficult to solder EC3 connectors.

However, by properly heating up the EC3 connectors and applying flux, soldering EC3 connectors is possible.

On the other hand, XT60 ensures a high amperage and strong connection. The XT60 connector is not prone to melting or distortion. They are more dependable and of higher quality. Moreover, soldering XT60 can be easily done if you know the process.

Applications

EC3 connectors are mostly used for eFlite, Blade line helicopters, RC car batteries, etc. It’s very popular and suitable for them.

The XT60 is best suited for applications requiring up to and including 65A. This aids with the connection of your RC quadcopter helicopters to a battery. And for airplane and Robotics Electronics as well. 

Price 

The cost of XT60 is $0.58 per pair, whereas the price for EC3 is in the range of $ 0.38-0.55. Both of these connectors cost almost the same. But for this segment, EC3 takes the lead for being cheaper.

Final Verdict

XT60 is likely to be the most popular RC connector nowadays. As it has more advantages than EC3 and it’s easy to operate. But both of them have different fields of applications. It’s better to take that into consideration as well. 

XT60 is easy to operate as they are simple to plug and unplug. Its connection is really strong and safe. The price of XT60 is also cheaper than EC3. In the aspect of its durability and its advantages, XT60 is better. 

However, they are more expensive than EC3. so if you want a more budget-friendly connector for your battery, EC3 is your one. But do make sure you’re using the best RC battery with this.

So that’s all we could offer on these connectors today. We tried to give you a detailed comparison between EC3 and XT60. we hope the guide will come to use!

FAQs

An XT60 or an EC3: Which would be worse?

Answer: XT60s are just re-packed bullets that are small (3mm or 3.5mm). They do not have the same current handling as Deans. EC3, which has a narrow lantern-shaped conductor. And its small contact points are similar, if not worse.

Which connectors are better: Deans type, XT60, or EC3?

Answer: Although the EC3/EC5 connectors are good, they are difficult to reuse. XT60s are just re-packed bullets that are small (3mm or 3.5mm) and do not have the same current handling as Deans.

Is the XT60 the same as the IC3?

Answer: Although the IC3 is backward compatible with the legacy EC3 connector. The battery’s “smart” features are lost. You’ll need an IC3 male to EC3 female adapter and then an EC3 male to XT60 female converter. Because the HOBBYMATE has standard XT60 connectors.

EndNote

We will part ways from here. With all the information, we hope that you figured out the difference between ec3 vs xt60. Now you should be able to make up your mind on one connector.

Let us know which one you picked for your batteries in the comments below.

Until next time, see you!