ETRONIX PHOTON 1/8 COMBO W/3.5D 2150KV MOTOR/120A ESC ET0435

Overview

The eTronix Photon 1/8 Combo with 3.5D 2150KV Motor and 120A ESC represents an exceptional entry point into brushless RC performance for 1/8-scale vehicles. This complete system delivers the convenience and power of modern brushless technology in a package specifically designed for buggy, truggy, short-course truck and truck applications. Whether you're upgrading from a brushed setup or discovering brushless RC for the first time, the Photon system offers sensible performance across a wide range of ability levels, making it an ideal choice for both casual bashers and those serious about their RC hobby in the UK.

As a trusted ready-to-run RC combo, the eTronix Photon combines proven engineering with user-friendly features that appeal to RC enthusiasts throughout Britain. The system's sensorless waterproof design means you can take your RC car to wet conditions without concern, whilst the included SBS LED Programming Card allows you to fine-tune ten different parameters to perfectly suit your driving style and track conditions. This is genuine brushless RC technology made accessible—no complex setup required, just unpack, charge a battery, and drive.

The 120A rating makes this system ideally suited to RTR-style applications and general-purpose 1/8-scale use, offering a practical balance between power, efficiency and reliability. If you're exploring brushless RC cars in the UK market, this combo represents outstanding value and genuine performance capability.

Key Features

• 4-Pole Brushless Motor System — The included 3.5D 2150KV motor is engineered as a 4-pole brushless unit that operates either sensorless straight out of the box or sensored when paired with aftermarket sensored motors, giving you complete flexibility to upgrade your setup as your skills develop.
• Waterproof 120A ESC — The Electronic Speed Controller is fully waterproof, meaning you can confidently run through wet grass, mud splashes and damp conditions without worrying about water damage to your electronics, expanding where you can safely operate your RC buggy or truck.
• Separate Sensor Cable Port — A dedicated sensor connection port allows you to upgrade to sensored aftermarket brushless motors in the future, enabling you to gradually enhance your setup without needing a complete electronics replacement.
• Wide Battery Compatibility — The system supports both modern LiPo chemistries (2–6S) and traditional NiMH/NiCd packs (5–18S), meaning you can use whatever battery chemistry suits your budget and preferences without compatibility concerns.
• Adjustable BEC Output — The integrated 3-amp Battery Eliminator Circuit provides selectable voltage output at either 6.0V or 8.4V, giving you the flexibility to power various aftermarket servos and receiver combinations exactly as needed.
• Programmable ESC Setup Card — The included Etronix Photon SBS LED Programming Card (ET0107) lets you adjust ten different performance parameters including motor timing, throttle response, braking characteristics, and rotation direction—transforming how your RC car feels and performs without any complex software or PC requirements.
• Adjustable Performance Parameters — Fine-tune cutoff voltage (automatically detects cell count), running mode (forward-only, forward/reverse, or forward with pause), motor timing from very low to very high, initial acceleration, throttle percentage in reverse, throttle limiting, braking strength, drag brake effect, motor rotation, and neutral deadband range.
• Impressive Burst Current Rating — With 760A burst current capability, the 120A ESC handles sudden acceleration spikes and high-load moments without cutting out, delivering responsive and reliable performance during aggressive driving.

Technical Performance

The eTronix Photon 1/8 brushless system is built around proven engineering principles that prioritise both reliability and adjustability. The 3.5D motor format offers excellent power density whilst the 2150KV rating provides a strong balance between top speed and torque characteristics suitable for 1/8-scale applications. Running at 120A continuous with 760A burst capability, this ESC delivers genuine performance for 1/8 buggies, truggies and short-course trucks without the complexity of larger competition-grade systems. The waterproof construction means you're not limited to dry-weather operation—a genuine advantage for UK RC enthusiasts who often face challenging weather conditions.

Battery flexibility is a significant strength. The system's support for 2–6S LiPo batteries gives you multiple power level options, with 4S typically representing the sweet spot for this 2150KV motor rating, whilst 6S operation is achievable within manufacturer recommendations. The integrated 3A BEC with voltage selectability handles modern receiver and servo requirements reliably. The programmable nature of the ESC means you're not locked into a single performance profile—whether you want smooth, predictable throttle response for learning or more aggressive acceleration for bashing, the ten adjustable parameters allow you to dial in exactly what suits your driving style and RC car setup. The sensorless design keeps things simple without sacrificing performance, though the separate sensor port opens upgrade pathways for those wanting to advance their RC experience later.

What's in the Box

• eTronix Photon 120A Waterproof Electronic Speed Controller
• eTronix 3.5D 2150KV 4-Pole Brushless Motor
• Etronix Photon SBS LED Programming Card (ET0107)

What You Need to Complete

• LiPo battery pack (2–6S recommended) or NiMH/NiCd pack (5–18S compatible)
• LiPo battery charger (if using lithium batteries)
• RC receiver and transmitter system (not included)
• Motor connectors (you will need to solder your preferred connector type onto the ESC)
• 1/8-scale RC buggy, truggy or truck chassis

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the eTronix Photon 120A suitable for beginners to brushless RC? — Absolutely. The Photon system is specifically designed as an ideal brushless starting point or upgrade from stock brushed setups. The included programming card makes setup straightforward with clear LED indicators, and the wide range of adjustable parameters means you can dial in performance that matches your ability level without complexity.
• What battery should I use with this brushless RC combo? — The system supports 2–6S LiPo (lithium polymer) or 5–18S NiMH/NiCd batteries. For this 2150KV motor, 4S LiPo is generally the recommended starting point offering excellent performance and battery life, though 6S operation is supported. If you're new to RC, 4S provides an ideal power level to develop your driving skills.
• Can I upgrade this system to sensored operation? — Yes, the dedicated sensor cable port allows you to connect sensored aftermarket brushless motors without replacing the ESC, giving you a clear upgrade path as you advance in the hobby.
• What is the difference between this 120A system and the 150A Photon? — The 120A Photon (this model) is tailored for RTR-style applications and general 1/8-scale use, whilst the higher-end 150A version features 150A continuous current and 1080A burst capability, designed for competitive buggy and truck racing where maximum power and performance tuning matter. The 120A suits everyday driving and bashing, whilst the 150A targets serious racers.
• Will this waterproof ESC work in wet conditions? — Yes, the waterproof rating means you can safely operate in wet grass, mud and damp environments without concern for water damage to the electronics, though you should always ensure your battery connectors and receiver are protected.
• What is the motor output shaft size? — The 3.5D motor features a 5mm output shaft, which is the standard size for most 1/8-scale brushless applications and aftermarket pinions.
• Is this compatible with my Hobao Hyper VS or similar 1/8 buggy? — The Photon system should work in most 1/8-scale buggies, though you may need to source an appropriate motor mount for your specific chassis. Consultation with your chassis manufacturer or experienced RC shops is recommended for conversion projects.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the ETRONIX PHOTON 1/8 COMBO W/3.5D 2150KV MOTOR/120A ESC ET0435 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.