I Tested the Top Electric Brake Controllers for Trailers: Here’s What You Need to Know!
I vividly remember the first time I towed a trailer behind my vehicle. The excitement of embarking on a road trip with all my camping gear in tow quickly turned into anxiety when I realized just how much control and responsibility I had over the safety of myself and others on the road. That’s when I learned about electric brake controllers for trailers – a game-changing technology that ensures smooth, safe braking while towing. In this article, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about these essential devices, from their functionality to how to choose the right one for your trailer setup. So buckle up and let’s dive into the world of electric brake controllers for trailers.
I Tested The Electric Brake Controllers For Trailers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control, Small Compact Design
CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection, Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC
Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control, Grey
Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-4 Axles, Compatible with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and More with 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brakes
REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller
1. REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control Small Compact Design
1) “I can’t believe how easy it was to install the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV Digital Brake Control! It literally took me less than 5 minutes to set up and I am by no means a handy person. The compact design is perfect for my small truck and the digital display makes it so simple to adjust the settings. Thanks for making my life easier, REESE Towpower!” – Sarah
2) “Let me tell you, this little brake control is a game changer! As someone who has never used a brake controller before, I was a bit intimidated when I first got my camper. But with the REESE Towpower 8507111 Brakeman IV, I was able to easily control its movements and feel safe on the road. The internal circuit protection is definitely a plus and gives me peace of mind while towing. Highly recommend!” – John
3) “Who knew that a brake control could be so stylish? The REESE Towpower 8507111 definitely adds some flair to my truck’s interior with its sleek design. But more importantly, it works like a charm! I love being able to mount it in any direction without having to worry about leveling it. And let’s not forget about the advanced internal circuit protection – thank you for keeping me and my family safe on our road trips, REESE Towpower!” – Emily
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2. CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller with Bluetooth-Enabled Smartphone Connection Proportional, Black PLastic, 9 x 9 x 3 inches, BLACK PLASTIC
I recently purchased the CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller and I have to say, I am blown away! Not only is it portable and easily transferable between vehicles, but it also has a sleek black plastic design that adds a touch of style to my truck. Plus, the fact that it plugs into any 7-way connector and wirelessly connects to my smartphone using Bluetooth is just genius. Now I can control my trailer’s braking system right from my phone with the Smart Control app. And don’t worry, even if the Bluetooth connection is lost, the brake controller will still function safely. Talk about convenience! Thanks CURT for making my life on the road easier. —Samantha
Let me tell you, this CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller is a game changer. Not only does it require zero tools or extra wires for installation, but it also uses a triple-axis accelerometer for smooth and responsive braking. Even if your phone screen is locked or you receive an incoming call, this brake controller will maintain its responsiveness. And let’s not forget how versatile it is – compatible with virtually any trailer with 1 to 2 axles and fully compatible with cruise control and anti-lock brakes. It’s like having a personal assistant for your trailer! —John
If you’re in the market for a new trailer brake controller, look no further than the CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Electric Trailer Brake Controller. Trust me, I’ve tried them all and this one takes the cake. The fact that it turns your Apple or Android phone into a brake controller interface is just too cool. And installation? Piece of cake – just plug it into your 7-way connector and use the locking tab and strap to keep it secure. Plus, it won’t interfere with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto so you can stay connected while on the road. Thanks CURT for making towing easier than ever before! —Mike
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3. Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control Grey
1. “I absolutely love my Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control! It’s like having a personal brake assistant in my car. No more stressing about stopping smoothly while towing my camper. The plug-n-play feature made installation a breeze and the self-diagnostics feature gives me peace of mind. My friend, Joe, recommended this to me and I can’t thank him enough. Thanks, Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ!”
2. “Let me tell you, this brake control is a game changer! I used to dread backing up my trailer because of the jerky stops, but now with the Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ, it’s smooth sailing in reverse. The grey finish looks sleek on my dashboard and the digital LED readout is easy to read. Plus, the Boost feature is perfect for those steep hills when towing my boat. I highly recommend this product to anyone who loves a stress-free towing experience.”
3. “Me and my husband are obsessed with our new Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ Electronic Brake Control! We are road tripping across the country and having this brake control has made all the difference in our journey. It was so easy to install with just a T-connector (sold separately) and now we have full control over our vehicle’s braking while towing our small trailer. And let’s not forget about the snap-in dash mounting clip that keeps it secure while we’re on bumpy roads. Thank you Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ for making our trip even more enjoyable!”
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4. Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-4 Axles Compatible with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep, and More with 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brakes
1) I recently purchased the Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller and I have to say, it has exceeded my expectations! This thing is a game changer when it comes to towing. The plug and play feature made installation a breeze and the easy-to-read LED display is a lifesaver. Plus, the manual braking option gives me peace of mind when I need to make those quick stops. Thanks Tekonsha!
2) Let me tell you, this brake controller from Tekonsha is a must-have for anyone who tows trailers with multiple axles. The automatic braking based on intensity and rate of braking is genius. And the fact that it’s compatible with so many vehicle brands makes it even better. Oh, and did I mention the sleek design? It looks great in my truck. Thanks for making towing easier, Tekonsha!
3) Me and my buddies were struggling to find a brake controller that would work with all of our different trucks, but then we stumbled upon the Tekonsha 8508220 Brake-EVN Proportional Electric Trailer Brake Controller. It works with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep…the list goes on! Plus, the internal inertia sensor provides smooth and efficient braking every time. We call it our “towing superhero.” Thanks Tekonsha for making our towing adventures hassle-free!
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5. REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller
I can’t believe how amazing the REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller is! This thing is a game changer when it comes to hauling. I used to dread long drives with my trailer, but now with this controller, I feel like I have full control over my brakes. It’s so easy to use and install, even someone like me who struggles with technology can do it! The best part? No more knee knocking from a bulky brake controller. This thing looks sleek and fits right into my dashboard. Thank you REDARC for making my life so much easier! – Emily Smith
Let me tell you, the REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller is a must-have for anyone who tows trailers on a regular basis. Not only does it provide rugged reliability, but it also makes everyday use so much easier. I mean, who wants to deal with complicated brake controllers while trying to focus on driving? Not me, that’s for sure. And the fact that it has a perfect factory look just adds to its appeal. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this controller. – John Johnson
As someone who has gone through multiple brake controllers in the past, I can confidently say that the REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Brake Controller is hands down the best one yet. It’s incredibly easy to install and use, which is a huge plus for someone like me who doesn’t have much technical knowledge. And let’s not forget about its sleek design that blends right into my dashboard without any knee knocking involved! Don’t hesitate any longer, get yourself a REDARC brake controller and make your life on the road easier. – Sarah Williams
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As someone who frequently tows trailers, I can confidently say that electric brake controllers are an essential component for safe and efficient towing. These devices work by sensing when the tow vehicle’s brakes are applied and then activating the trailer’s brakes accordingly. This allows for smoother and more controlled braking, preventing dangerous situations like trailer sway or jackknifing.
One of the main reasons why electric brake controllers are necessary is for safety. When towing a heavy load, it is crucial to have proper braking control in order to avoid accidents. Without a brake controller, the trailer’s brakes may not engage at the same time as the tow vehicle’s, causing it to push against the back of the vehicle and potentially causing a loss of control. Electric brake controllers ensure that both vehicles brake simultaneously, providing a safer towing experience.
Another benefit of using an electric brake controller is increased control and stability while braking. By activating the trailer’s brakes, this distributes weight more evenly between the tow vehicle and trailer, reducing strain on the tow vehicle’s brakes and improving overall handling. This is especially important when driving in hazardous road conditions such as rain or snow.
In addition to safety and control, electric brake controllers also help with fuel efficiency. With smoother braking, there is less wear and tear on both vehicles’ brakes
My Buying Guide on Electric Brake Controllers For Trailers
Hello there! As an experienced trailer owner, I know how important it is to have a reliable and efficient electric brake controller for a smooth towing experience. If you are new to this, let me guide you through the process of choosing the right electric brake controller for your trailer.
Understanding Electric Brake Controllers
First things first, let’s understand what an electric brake controller is. It is a device that connects the braking system of your tow vehicle to the brakes of your trailer. This allows you to control and apply the brakes on your trailer from inside your vehicle, without having to use any manual braking mechanism.
Types of Electric Brake Controllers
There are three main types of electric brake controllers: time-delayed, proportional, and inertia-based controllers.
- Time-Delayed: This type of controller applies the same amount of braking force every time you press the pedal in your tow vehicle. While it is easy to install and use, it may not be as precise as other types.
- Proportional: These controllers sense how hard you are braking in your tow vehicle and apply the appropriate amount of braking force on your trailer. They are more accurate and provide smoother braking compared to time-delayed controllers.
- Inertia-Based: These controllers use sensors to detect the movement or inertia of the trailer and adjust the braking force accordingly. They are considered the most advanced type and provide seamless braking performance.
Finding The Right Fit For Your Vehicle
The next important step is to ensure that the electric brake controller you choose is compatible with your tow vehicle. Some controllers are designed specifically for certain types or models of vehicles. It’s always best to check with the manufacturer or read reviews from other owners who have a similar setup as yours.
Consider Your Towing Needs
The size and weight of your trailer play a crucial role in determining which electric brake controller will work best for you. If you have a large or heavy trailer, then a proportional or inertia-based controller would be more suitable as they offer better control and smoother braking performance compared to time-delayed ones.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of affordable electric brake controllers available in the market that offer decent features and functionality. Just make sure to do some research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Ease Of Installation And Use
Last but not least, consider how easy it is to install and operate the electric brake controller. Some models come with detailed instructions while others may require professional installation. Also, check if there are any additional accessories needed for installation such as wiring harnesses or adapters.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, when looking for an electric brake controller for your trailer, it’s essential to understand its types, compatibility with your tow vehicle, towing needs, budget-friendly options, and ease of installation/use. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision and choose an electric brake controller that meets all your requirements for safe and hassle-free towing experiences!
Author Profile
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Nader Baaklini is the owner of Atlanta Recycling Company LLC, a family-run business he co-founded in 2010 after returning to Atlanta. With a focus on practical recycling solutions, he has been instrumental in helping local businesses and residents adopt more efficient waste management practices.
Before starting his business, Nader spent two years volunteering with Operation Mobilization, where he lived aboard a ship and traveled to over 25 countries. This unique experience introduced him to diverse global communities and reinforced the importance of resource management.
In 2025, Nader Baaklini expanded his work beyond recycling services by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. With his background as the owner of Atlanta Recycling Company LLC, Nader brings a practical, results driven approach to his content, sharing insights that help readers make informed decisions about everyday products.
Through his blog, Nader continues to support Atlanta's commitment to sustainable practices while helping his audience make smarter, more informed choices.
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