Published 2026-10-10, updated 2026-10-10, by the Maclean team in Suzhou
Brushless or Brushed Motor Floor Washer: Which One to Choose
Short answer: A brushless motor gives higher suction and a longer service life. A brushed motor costs less and fits an entry price tier. In our range the brushless GT8 reaches 12 kPa on High and the brushed GT3 9 kPa, while the GT3 runs longer per charge.
Many cordless floor washers now use brushless motors, and brushed models are still sold as entry models. Below we compare the two motor types with numbers from our four floor washer series.
How the two motor types differ
A brushed motor passes current through carbon brushes that touch the spinning part of the motor. The brushes wear over time. A brushless motor has no brushes. Electronics switch the current instead, so there is less friction and less wear.
- Brushless: higher suction for the same size, longer service life, more efficient, higher cost.
- Brushed: simpler and cheaper. Suitable for an entry price tier.
Real numbers from our range
| Series | Motor | Suction (High / Low) | Runtime (High / Low) | Units per 20GP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT6 | 25.9V brushless | 15 / 12 kPa | 30 / 40 min | 288 |
| GT8 series | 25.9V brushless | 12 / 9 kPa | 35 / 45 min | 681 |
| GT9 series | 25.9V brushless | 11 / 9 kPa | 35 / 45 min | 456 |
| GT3 | 22.2V brushed | 9 / 6 kPa | 36 / 48 min | 710 |
The brushless models have the higher suction. The brushed GT3 has the longest runtime per charge in our range and the most units per 20GP, which keeps freight per unit low.
Which one to choose
- Choose brushless if your shoppers compare suction numbers, or if you sell in the mid and top price tiers.
- Choose brushed if you need an entry model next to a brushless one, so your range covers more price points.
- You can also carry both: the GT3 as the entry model and the GT8 or GT9 as the main model.
Test the sample on both gears before you approve it. Our sample checklist has the full list.
More guides
- How Many Floor Washers Fit in a 20GP, 40GP and 40HQ Container
- Floor Washer Sample Checklist: 12 Checks Before Mass Production
Related products: all floor washers, OEM service.