VESC, Fardriver, Kelly, or original controller: a workshop comparison
When you want to replace the controller on an electric scooter, a light motorcycle, or an electric kart, four main types come to mind: VESC controllers, Fardriver controllers, Kelly controllers, and the original controller that came with the vehicle. They don't all have the same design philosophy. This comparison doesn't aim to declare a single "winner"; instead, it's designed to help you choose the controller that best suits your project.
The essentials
- The VESC stands out due to its open-source software and the depth of its settings and diagnostic capabilities.
- Fardriver and Kelly use a proprietary, closed-source software system specific to their brand, with their own dedicated tuning application.
- The original controller is the easiest to keep, but it offers the least amount of adjustability.
- Regardless of the choice, the battery and motor determine the performance limits, and the quality of the assembly determines the reliability.
Les quatre familles en bref
The original controller
It comes with the scooter and is designed for its battery, motor, and display. It works right out of the box and integrates perfectly, but its settings are limited to what the display offers.
The VESC
A project for an open-source controller, configurable with VESC Tool, and free of charge. Several manufacturers produce compatible hardware. Everything is adjustable and observable: currents, voltages, temperatures, and data logging. See our guide "VESC Explained Simply".
Fardriver
A popular brand of controllers commonly used in light electric motorcycles and two-wheel conversions. Configuration is done through a proprietary app. The internal software is not publicly available.
Kelly
A long-standing brand in electric motorization, present in karting, light utility vehicles, and conversions. The controllers are programmed using the brand's software or application. The internal software is also not publicly available.
The comparison table
| Original | VESC | Fardriver | Kelly | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Internal software | Closed | Free (GPL v3) | Closed | Closed |
| Tuning tool | The display, sometimes an application | VESC Tool, free of charge | Brand application | Software or application from the brand |
| Scope of adjustments | Low | Very wide | Large | Large |
| Data and recordings | Limited | Very comprehensive | According to the model | According to the model |
| Integration with the machine | Perfect | To be adapted (display, controls) | To be adapted | To be adapted |
| Documentation | That of the manufacturer | Global community, primarily in English | Resellers and community | Brand Documentation |
| Getting Started | Immediate | Learning request | Learning request | Learning request |
The catalogs for each brand are constantly evolving, so always check, model by model, the maximum voltage, the current ratings, and the type of motor sensors supported.
The criteria that truly matter
The motor and its sensors
Hall sensors, encoder, or no sensor: not every controller can read all of these. This is the first key factor to consider. A controller that can operate without a sensor offers more flexibility, but may have a less responsive start from a standstill.
Voltage and current
The controller must accept the full battery voltage with some margin, and its currents must match what the battery and motor can handle. Please read the specifications carefully: a "maximum" current may only be sustainable for a few seconds. Our controller guide details these figures.
Cooling and space
A powerful controller generates heat. It needs a surface to dissipate that heat, and space within the device. On an electric scooter, this is often the real limiting factor.
The diagnosis
The day your machine breaks down, the controller's ability to pinpoint the cause can save you hours. This is a key strength of the VESC, as its logs record current, voltage, and temperature readings at the time of the failure.
The service
Who can help you if you encounter a problem? A free and open-source software with a large community, a reseller who is familiar with the brand, or a workshop that is proficient with the equipment: this is a criterion that is just as important as the specifications.
Which controller for which project?
- Want to ride without worrying about the electronics? Keep the original controller, or choose a system that comes pre-configured.
- If you enjoy understanding and fine-tuning, especially for track use, then the VESC is for you.
- You are converting a lightweight motorcycle with a motor and a kit designed for a specific brand: Following the brand recommended by the motor manufacturer simplifies the integration process.
- Are you powering a utility vehicle or a kart? The choice depends on the motor, voltage, and cooling system; this is the work of our engineering department.
Workshop tip
The best controller, if poorly installed, will always be less reliable than an average controller that is properly installed. Cable sections, connector quality, mounting, and cooling are just as important as the brand.
And what about RageLink?
Our RageLink controllers take a different approach: a complete system, including the controller, display, telemetry, and application, designed and manufactured in France in our workshops, and adjustable and updated via your phone. They are not yet for sale; the waiting list is open.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most powerful controller?
The question is poorly phrased: each brand offers models of all sizes. The effective power is determined by the battery, the motor, and the cooling system; the right controller is one that utilizes these components without exceeding their limits.
What does open-source software mean for me?
The controller's operation is open-source, meaning the community can study, correct, and improve it, and the configuration tool is free. For the user, this primarily translates to very comprehensive settings and extensive documentation.
Can the original display be used with a different controller?
Rarely directly compatible: The display typically uses the communication protocol of its original controller. You will need a display that is compatible with the new controller, or an adapter.
Does changing the controller void the warranty?
Generally, yes, at least for the electrical components. However, check with the seller before modifying a scooter that is still under warranty.