Best Brake Controller for the Money – Buying Guide & Reviews

Can you imagine a day without a vehicle? The answer is known to everyone, and it is crystal ‘No’; and, if you are on the road with any vehicle, you must have to think of the brake controller. A good brake controller secures you while driving and it ensures that you enjoy your journey. So, no specify concern if you are a professional driver or not, you need the best brake controller for the money that comes with all the features for yours and your vehicle’s security.

Driving is fun for some people and for others, it is required; whatever it is, if you drive a car, you must have to be careful about the vehicle and the road; and here comes the necessity of a good brake controller. Modern brake controllers come with a digital display that shows the voltage and power information. Besides, it warns when any issue is identified. So, a good brake controller plays an important role to save and secure you in the street.

A Quick View of Our Reviewed Brake Controller

Pick Name	Thumbnail	Product Name	Price
1st		Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control	$112
2nd		Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control	$90
3rd		Hayes 81760 Engage Digital Time Based Brake Controller	$57
4th		Reese Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control	$43
5th		Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control	$149

Ideal Brake Controller to Consider Buying

The saying, “Money Matters” is true in almost everywhere. Let’s think of the manufacturers; if they intend to prefer more features, they have to invest much money. On the other hand, they can give you almost a similar product in the lowest money with some missing features. So, you can buy a brake controller at only $50, and you also can buy one at $150. Though both of them will provide you the regular features, some differences are quite okay, and anyone will agree to this. However, read this review carefully, and you will find different types of brake controllers that will help you choose the best brake controller for you.

Our 5 Best Brake Controller for the Money Reviews

01 Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control

Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control comes with unique brake control mode. This controller is designed to ensure easy installation and usable on different vehicles. It has a plug harness to offer you a huge number of benefits. Stopping a vehicle is not an easy task, and for giving you the optimal brake control, Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control is an ideal brake controller to meet your needs. Providing you the precise and reliable control of your vehicles, it has been a reputed braking system in the world of the braking controller.

Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control is engineered to make sure that you are not distracted when you drive the vehicle. For instances, it allows you hassle-free mounting on the dashboard and plugs into the socket of your vehicle without any issue. This device also works with anti-lock brakes and cruise control and this capacity makes it one of the best brake controller for the money on the market. You do not need to become an expert to install and work with this device. This is a wonderful option to buy if you want an easy to use and effective brake controller.

Specifications

Pros

• Ensuring Smooth Stops with Motion-sensing Accelerometer
• Providing Dynamic Power Adjustment with Third Axis
• Optimal Sensitivity Adjustment
• User-selectable Power Output
• No Setup Required

Cons

• Wrong Use Damages Battery

FAQ

Question: Does it come with a digital display to inform you about the current degree?
Answer: Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control comes with a digital display to make the user aware of the braking control. It informs you of the current adjustment degree.

Question: What size breaker will this controller take?
Answer: If you bring a factory harness, it will plug in with no problems. If not, you must buy an installation kit compatible with your vehicle, and it will give everything you need. However, it is difficult to install and if you are not an expert, hire someone to do this.

Our Remarks

Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control comes with motion sensing-accelerometer to give the smooth stop opportunity. Stopping in an emergency has been easier than ever, and it secures you from a terrible accident. Besides, it allows you to control the output power. It requires you no setup; so, anyone can set up this device without any difficulties. However, you need to be careful about the wrong use of the controller that is responsible for damaging the vehicle battery. A little care helps you use this as the best brake controller.

02 Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control

Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control is a popular and widely used brake controller, which is electric. The versatile features of the brake control come for your convenience which makes it one of the wonderful options. It comes with great adjustment technology, and it uses sensor technology that allows you to take necessary steps immediately with the pro brake control. So, whether you drive a large vehicle or a small home, Draw Electronic Vehicle is more useful than anything.

The brake control aims to give you a smooth towing experience. Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control allows you to mount the controller on any part of the dashboard with snap-in-mounting clip. It also brings you a removable electrical connector that allows you to store the device when the device is not in use. Most of the users are appealed with the digital display that shows you the amount of voltage applied to the braking system.  Besides, the LED readout warns if any issue is detected.

Specifications

Pros

• Signaling Issues with LED Readout
• Coming with Boost Feature
• Utilizing Plug-N-Play Port
• Opportunity for Removing and Storing Control
• Durability

Cons

• Sideways Mounting Is Not Possible

FAQ

Question: Does it need an adapter for 2006 dodge ram 3500?
Answer: Yes, you definitely have an adapter to make your vehicle work with this brake controller. If you want to get the optimal performance, buy an adapter from the similar manufacturer. It can be installed fast.

Question: Does this controller work on 2001 2500 suburban without any adapter harness?
Answer: We are sorry ‘No.’ You must have to collect a harness for your vehicles for getting the optimal performance. The controller has the capacity of securing you from many terrible accidents.

Our Remarks

LED readout informs about the power system and it warns about any issue detected in your Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control. It utilizes Plug-N-Play port that is added for two plug adapters. Besides, this brake control includes Boost feature and has the capacity of working in reverse. The mounting clip comes to allow you to store or remove the control when it is not used. However, this device doesn’t allow you to mount sideways. Except this, the controller is full of advantages.

03 Hayes 81760 Engage Digital Time Based Brake Controller

In modern time, everyone is busy, and nobody wants to waste time for installation. So, everyone is looking for a brake controller that can be installed in no time. As a solution of your issue, we have brought Hayes 81760 Engage Digital Time Based Brake Controller in the list because we found it different than others while our team was working and researching on around 200 brake controllers. This device can be connected easily; just after mounting it. Meanwhile, it offers you manually and automatically braking opportunity.

Hayes 81760 Engage Digital Time Based Brake Controller is available in the market with a compact design; its small size attracts the customers at first sight. It comes with a level adjustment technology; so, no hassle of adjusting to being confronted. This device is completely lead-free. Interested to know about the size, it comes with 4.2 x 1.8 x 8 dimensions and weighs 9.6 ounces. For extra security, it brings you a warranty for a lifetime and the company is in your assistance if you find any issue with this brake controller.

Specifications

Pros

• No Hassle of Level Adjustment
• Providing Manual and Automatic Braking
• Quick Connect Installation
• Completely Lead-Free
• Attractive Design

Cons

• Difficult to Decide with Which Vehicle to Be Used

FAQ

Question: Does it permit automatic braking?
Answer: Hayes 81760 Engage Digital Time-Based Brake Controller features both automatic and manual braking system. So, you can choose the braking system according to your requirement and managing capacity.

Question: Does it connect fast?
Answer: Well, it depends on the one who connects it. However, the braking controller has the capacity to be installed and connected fast. It doesn’t waste your time for installation.

Our Remarks

Whether you think it is important or not; the warranty is significant for any product, and if the product is a tool, the warranty could be a great support. Buying this brake controller means you are tension free with its one-year warranty. Besides, you need to worry about level adjustment. It comes with the easy installation process, and it doesn’t waste your time with the late connection. The only issue is the vehicle is not fixed for this brake controller; so, the beginner driver might face issues. So, be careful and talk to the retailer while buying to avoid this issue.

04 Reese Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control

Even you are not a professional driver; you want a digital display with your brake controller that will keep you up-to-date about the required information. Reese Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control comes with a clear and large digital display to meet your needs. Tracking the voltage and power applied to a vehicle’s brake, it helps you adjust accurately while driving on the road. Meanwhile, it also comes with separate push buttons that take the responsibility of adjusting controls. So, it makes you easy to drive with safety and security.

Reese Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control features a small and compact design that makes it easy for the mountain. The small design makes it easy to move and carry when required. Interested to know about the size? The dimension of this controller is 6.5 x 4 x 2 inches, and it weighs only 5.6 ounces. If you still feel unsecured about your investment, the good news awaits. This brake controller comes with a lifetime warranty, and you can get the solution of any issue you confront with this controller. So, it has been more dependable than ever.

Specifications

Pros

• Opportunity of Mounting in Any Direction
• Two Push Buttons Ensures Easy Adjustment
• Coming with Digital Display
• Advanced Circuit protection
• Compact Design

Cons

• Seems Like an Old Model

FAQ

Question: Does it include a mounting bracket?
Answer: The question is common among the new customers, and a valid reason works behind this. Reese Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control comes with a mounting bracket that helps you install the brake controller and keeps it secured.

Question: Does this brake controller work with a 2003 ford explorer?
Answer: It works, but you need to collect wiring adapter for any specific vehicle or SUV along with this the brake controller. Once you use the adapter with it, it works great.

Our Remarks

Now, let’s revise what you have learned about this brake controller. Adjustment is an important thing for a brake controller; so, we will remind you of the two push buttons at the beginning as the buttons have made it possible. They make sure that the adjustment is accurate. Meanwhile, the digital gauge helps you be aware of the amount of power and voltage used for the brake, and it also warns about the issue that might cause an accident. However, the model might seem the old, but its performance is really like the pro. Buy it, and you won’t be disappointed.

05 Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control

Tekonsha 90195 P3 electronic brake control is one of the most highly rated electric brakes controllers. Though it is a bit expensive, its performance is praise-worthy, and a large number of drivers recommend it. Choosing to buy this controller means you are going to have a brake controller with exceptional quality. You don’t need to worry about your own and your trailer’s safety, and the brake controller is worth the price. If you want to get a good controller, The Tekonsha brake controller is one of the best controllers on the market.

With this electric trailer brake controller, you enjoy a braking system that seems to be quite exceptional. Many features have been included to make it a reliable brake controller for your vehicle. You have the option of modifying your braking system to suit your needs in the best ways possible. This brake controller comes with an easy to read digital display. So, you do not need to pay attention to the trailer but the driving itself. The controller has five different settings to allow you to adjust for working with different types of vehicles. So, you are getting a huge service from this Tekonsha P3 brake controller, and it lasts for a long time.

Specifications

Pros

• Featuring Plug-N-Play Port
• Easy to Read Gauge
• Warning System for Highest Security
• Boost Features for Customized Braking
• Storing and Removing Control

Cons

• Can Be Overheated Within A short-time

FAQ

Question: Do the brakes engage during backing up?
Answer: Yes, it also comes with a “reverse” mode for easy engagement; just hold the brake pedal while pressing the boost button for only 5 seconds. It will remain in reverse mode for 3 minutes if you don’t press boost again to deactivate the reverse mode.

Question: Does this controller come with a mounting bracket?
Answer: Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control features a wonderful mount bracket to make the installation easier. But, some problems are identified with the display contrast. A little improvement can make it adaptable to more users.

Our Remarks

Security is an important issue for anyone and everyone. So, you are on the street and driving a car; you need to focus on the security features of everything you use. Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control comes with a technology that warns about any problem identified in the braking control. Besides, its digital display has made it even popular. It shows all the voltage and power used by the device. However, the controller gets heated within a short time, and it might be harmful to it. Meanwhile, if the light is improved a little; it could be even better and be your one of the best trailer brakes controllers.

Best Brake Controller for the Money – Detailed Buying Guide

While looking for the best brake controller for the money, a number of things need to be considered. This is very important, and it helps you make a wise decision while buying your brake controller. Here are some of the significant considerations:

Key Features

The quality features of your device make it the best brake controller. Look for Plug-N-Play options and the other important features like selection of the mode; whether electric or hydraulic. Know about the alert features and self-diagnostics that give you warnings when any issue caused. Consider the power setting and the sensor on your brake controllers.

Display

Our recommendation is to go for the model that features a visible display. Selecting an LED display is significant and has numerous advantages. Without regarding the driving conditions, you should be able to see the right readout for the brake controller, even when you are driving under extreme light or darkness at night.

Voltage

Voltage is important for any brake controller as it is an electric tool. Usually, the required voltage for a brake controller is 12V except some brake controllers. Though a few numbers of brake controllers work in 24V, use 12V for your brake controller unless the manufactures or instruction guide mentions supplying 24V.

Mounting

It is essential to consider mounting types that is a must with a brake controller. You want something that is easy to mount, and dismounting is also effortless when your device is not in use. If you find a brake controller that comes with mounting hardware and needs no tools, it will be better.

Mode of Operation

You will get either an electric or a hydraulic brake controller. However, when you read various brake controller reviews, you want to find the right controller. Some models are available with a combination of hydraulic and electric; and all you need to make sure that it is capable of supporting each mode.

Remembering the Extras

Delivery

Though brake controllers are not heavy, you need to know about the delivery procedure. The device works with electric, and rough movement might cause short-circuit to the controller. Ensure you haven’t received a damaged brake controller.

Return Policy

Returning is not your motto but still if any wrong product comes to you; you definitely should be informed about how the returning will be taken place and whether you have to pay for the carrying cost or not. How long will it take to receive the controller after solving the problem?

Warranty

Look for the brake controller that comes with at least a one-year warranty. Though all controllers don’t offer a warranty, getting one with warranty is your security. Usually, expensive brake controllers offer a warranty to make the customers tension-free in investment.

How to Use and Maintain Brake Controller?

Safety Features

Look for the safety features that come with your brake controller. The features will secure your device when it is in no use. For instance, keep it in a polyethylene bag and then in the box; so that dust doesn’t damage your controller.

Maintenance

If you get a brake controller that is maintenance free, nothing can be better than this. So, look for one.

Brake Controller Maintenance

Being operated with power, brake controller has something sensitive like the voltage. Failing to ensure the accurate power supply damages the device. Besides, short-circuit might cause anytime to a brake controller.

Wipe with Dry Cloth

Dust is the real enemy of a brake controller, and if the dust enters into the brake controller, the controller stops working. So, make sure that you wipe the brake controller regularly. It will enhance the lifespan of your brake controller, and you will be relaxed for a long time.

Attention!

Make sure that no water can enter into the brake controller. Water can burn the circuit and flame it. Check that the brake controller is not suffering from over-heating. Make sure you know about setting the brake controller wiring; if not, get help from an expert.

Final Verdict

Reading the above texts, you have learned a lot about the brake controller including knowing the five different types of controllers. So, it is significant to know about the good brake controllers that you have already been informed about. However, still, we think we need to share some more information so that you can choose the best brake controller for the money without any hesitation and you don’t have to regret after buying.

Believing in the similar product that people already believe in has some positive effects. When a huge number of people reveal their positive observation about a brake controller, you can expect the controller serve you better unless any uncertain situation occurs. We will talk about such two brake controllers. Tekonsha 90195 P3 Electronic Brake Control is the most expensive in this list, and it is the most popular too. So, you can take as an exceptional choice for those who afford this. On the other hand, Draw-Tite 20191 I-Stop IQ Electronic Brake Control is used by numerous people, and they are positive about this. Meanwhile, it comes at a reasonable price. Either of them can satisfy you and serve your needs.

We love to present two more electric brake controllers that come with an affordable price for anyone and everyone. If you have a low budget, Reese Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control is a good choice for you. It serves your needs and doesn’t hurt your wallet. But, if you are ready to spend a little more, you can try Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control. However, if you compare the popularity of these two brake controllers. Curt Manufacturing CURT 51140 TriFlex Brake Control is ahead than another one.

Choosing the best brake controller for the money is difficult, but our expert researchers have made it easier than anything. Whether you choose a prodigy brake controller or the best buy Kenosha, you have to decide on buying the best brake controller for the money in the market for ensuring your longtime secured driving. Happy Buying!