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Drum Brake Vs Disc Brake: Which is the Better Choice?

ByMatsumoto Naoki-January 29, 2021

Modern braking systems have been a great wonder of technology. Using computers, sensors, and many other engineered parts, these have been able to stop the vehicle safely. However, with the changing trend, some cars use drum brake systems while others have a disc brake in them. So, if you’re looking to change this system in the car, let’s first compare drum brake Vs disc brake, to find the better one.

Drum Brake Vs Disc Brake: The Ultimate Comparison

For your better driving tips, there are certain differences between disc and drum brakes based on their setup, working, and efficiency, which you must know.

Take a look at the video below to see the comparison of Drum Brake Vs Disc Brake

1. Constructional Difference

Drum brakes are attached to the wheel’s hub and rotate with the wheel. These are mounted with shoe brakes in such a way that when brakes are applied, the outward motions of brake shoes develop frictional contact with the drum lines. Thus, enabling the vehicle to stop immediately. Whereas, in case of disc brakes, a caliper is used that is attached to the disc in a way that on applying the brake, the rotating disc is slowed down by the brake pads, which in turn causes the vehicle to stop.

Additionally, in a drum brake, large brake shoes are used for creating frictional contact with the rotating drum lines. And, the brake pads are regulated by the large size hydraulic cylinders placed inside the drum. While, in a disc brake, small brake pads are used for making frictional contact with the disc in rotation. And, to govern the clamping movement of brake pads, small hydraulic cylinders located inside the caliper are used.

Overall, the battle between drum brake Vs disc brake here is won by the drum brakes as it has larger arrangement than the disc brake system.

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2. Working Difference

In case of drum brakes, brake oil enters the drum having high pressure and applies it to the pistons of wheel cylinder that forces the piston to move. With this, the brake shoes move outward and clamp the rotating drum lines.

However, in the disc brake system, when the brake is applied, the piston forces the compressed brake oil to the brake caliper. Creating high pressure, the oil enters the caliper that makes the right and left pad move. With this, the brake shoes move inward and clamp the rotating disc.

Comparison of drum brake Vs disc brake. Source: Pro Car Mechanics

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3. Efficiency Difference

The rotating wheel receives less or moderate frictional force during the brake applied. That’s why drum brakes are mainly installed in larger vehicles. Another reason is that these brakes can expand in size, which makes them quite efficient according to the requirement of heavy cars.

Battle between drum brake Vs disc brake. Source: Internet 

When it comes to disc brakes, the rotating wheel gets quite high frictional force because of the contact between the rotating disc and the brake pads.

4. Application Difference

Now, as the drum brakes can expand to any large size, therefore, they’re generally used in heavy vehicle likes trucks and buses. However, the disc brakes are generally made smaller in size; therefore, these are widely used in two-wheelers like scooters and bikes.

After comparing, drum brake Vs disc brake, now it’s up to you, which brake system will you prefer.

Matsumoto Naoki is senior car blogger at Car From Japan. Having background in mechanical engineering, he has a unique perspective on a lot of new car innovations. Prior to Car From Japan, Matsumoto was Mechanical Design Engineer at Yajima Plant, Subaru Corporation. His articles provide detailed DIY instructions and how-tos to help you get your new car on the road. If you want to save money and feel more confident when working on your cars, you should not ignore Matsumoto’s sharing posts. He presents driving tips and tricks for everyone through easy-following steps and mechanically but friendly writing.

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