Introduction
SBEC and UBEC are two of the most common voltage regulators used in RCs. You’ve to buy one according to the compatibility of your device. Choosing between them can be pretty tough. Thus, many users are left frustrated. We hope to make things simple for you.
The real question is, which one to select: SBEC vs UBEC?
For starters, SBEC is more efficient and stable than UBEC. However, SBEC has a bigger voltage drop. They’re also noisier. You’ll get a better output ripple smoothing with UBEC. SBUS is the larger of the two in terms of size. You’ll find UBEC to be more affordable.
This information is very little to go on. You’ll need to dive in deep to make an educated choice.
Let’s get straight to it, then.
SBEC vs UBEC: Basic Differences
Before we get into the details, we suggest you understand how voltage regulators operate first. Once you understand the concept, you’ll find it easier to choose between SBEC and UBEC.
With that being said, we’ve prepared a chart consisting of basic differences between the two. This’ll give you a surface-level idea about the regulators-
| Features | SBEC | UBEC |
| Efficiency | More | Less |
| Size | Bigger | Smaller |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Reliability | Less | More |
| Noise | More | Less |
| Voltage Drop | More | Less |
We hope we were able to whet your appetite for a thorough discussion. Because that’s exactly what’s coming next.
SBEC Vs UBEC: Head-To-Head Battle
In this segment, we’ll provide you the details of the 2 regulators. Analyze them thoroughly before deciding which one you want.
Efficiency
If you get UBEC, it’ll lower the voltage of the battery. For example, if 6.2 Li-Po goes through UBEC, you’ll only get 5 volts. 2.2 voltage is lost due to heat dissipation. Moreover, due to its smaller size, UBEC can heat up very quickly.
On the other hand, there is no such voltage loss with SBEC. The battery will get the full voltage. Since SBEC is bigger, it can handle the extra heat.
Furthermore, even if SBEC has a bigger voltage drop, it can control the output current. This is something UBEC can’t do. Therefore, you’ll find most top-quality RC rally cars come with UBEC.
Stability
Once again, SBEC takes the lead here because it’s more stable than UBEC.
SBEC doesn’t consume power in an inefficient manner. They’re also aided by a microprocessor. As a result, you’ll get a much more stable current with SBEC. You can even configure and adjust the output voltage in some models.
As far as UBEC is concerned, it lacks any advantage that a microprocessor provides. Hence, they’re not as stable. You’ll sometimes notice the current input is lagging.
If the input voltage drops, UBEC won’t be able to adapt to the situation. As a result, the input voltage won’t be maintained properly.
If you’re planning to use your device with UBEC, there’s one solution to this problem. Connecting the regulator to a top-notch ESC will improve stability. This is because the more powerful the ESC is, the more juice regulators get.
Battery
The battery also plays a part in how the voltage regulator operates.
When it comes to UBC, the voltage is directly proportional to the battery’s health. When the battery voltage falls below the UBEC voltage, it ceases to produce current. Hence, if the battery reaches 6 volts, UBEC will cut off reception.
On the flip side, SBEC performs the function of a switching power supply. It converts the input current into a sine wave and divides it into different voltages. In consequence, reception isn’t cut off no matter how much the voltage falls.
When selecting a battery, keep the accepted input and output voltages in mind.
Moreover, UBEC can be juiced up by a 3S or a 4S Li-Po. SBEC can be boosted by a 6S Li-Po. On that note, we’d like to recommend the top two RC batteries you’ll find-
| Product 1 | Product 2 |
Price
Lastly, price is another important differentiating factor. This difference can help you make a decision while picking between SBUS and PPM.
So, there’s a significant price difference between SBEC and UBEC.
You’ll get SBEC for around $60-80. So, make sure to use it carefully. Or else you’ll have to spend a lot of money to replace it.
UBEC, however, is quite budget-friendly and comes at a reasonable price. You’ll get them for half the price of their counterpart. In most shops, they’re available for around $30-40.
SBEC Vs UBEC: Final Verdict
You now have a thorough understanding of both voltage regulators. Consequently, choosing between SBEC and UBEC should be less difficult for you.
If you’re using a powerful RC that requires a high voltage, SBEC is your pick. But, if you require an affordable regulator for mid-level RC, UBEC will do quite well.
FAQs
Question: Which of SBEC and UBEC is more durable?
Answer: The durability of these voltage regulators depends on how you’re using them. If you take proper care of SBEC, it’ll last for at least 5 years. UBEC will give you about 3 to 4 good years. It’s advisable that you don’t use any regulator for more than 5 years.
Question: Why is SBEC more expensive than UBEC?
Answer: SBEC has more components than UBEC. Manufacturing those parts doesn’t come cheap. This is why SBEC is more expensive than UBEC. It doesn’t take as much to create the parts of UBEC.
Question: Why do I need a cooling fan for my UBEC?
Answer: UBEC can heat up pretty quickly. A cooling fan will circulate cooler air over the UBEC. This’ll protect it from overheating and extend the life of the regulator. You should get a 20W cooling fan for optimum results.
Conclusion
That’s all the information you need to know on SBEC vs UBEC. We hope you enjoyed reading our guide.
The light at the end of the tunnel should be a bit clearer now. Therefore, it shouldn’t be too hard for you to make a decision. Feel free to select the regulator that best meets your needs.
We’ll meet again soon. Until then, take care and good luck!
