If you have an insatiable need for speed, you need a braking system that’s up to the task. That’s why so many driving enthusiasts turn to StopTech for their aftermarket brake and rotor needs.
Engineered and manufactured specifically for racing cars and high-performance vehicles, StopTech provides premium braking power and a sharp reduction in braking noise. Find out how StopTech brake parts can turn your drive into an experience you’ll want to have again and again.
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Comparison of the Best Stoptech Brakes and Rotors
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Who is StopTech?
Since 1999, StopTech has been a leader in aftermarket braking components and parts specifically for high-end vehicles. During this time, the company has earned four patents on brake parts, as well as accolades from race car drivers and numerous publications. In addition, StopTech is an official supplier of OEM brake parts to several OEMs, as well as a distributor of aftermarket components to various retailers.
In 2006, APC Automotive Technologies purchased StopTech and merged it with Centric—another brand under the APC umbrella. Today, StopTech is the performance division of Centric, keeping the two brands linked despite the difference in their product lines.
With around 230 employees in their California-based office and factory, StopTech generates $46 million annually through these parts:
- Brake pads
- Brake rotors
- Brake kits
- Brake lines
- Axle packs
- Accessories
Thanks to its diverse array of high-quality products, StopTech remains a leader in brake parts, giving high-flying drivers the braking power that they’ve come to trust for over two decades.
Review of the Best StopTech Brakes and Rotors
With a lineup of high-grade products, StopTech brakes and rotors provide a premium solution to high-octane drivers. Whether you’re upgrading a vehicle or replacing worn-out parts, here’s a glance at some of the top aftermarket brake parts from StopTech.
Best StopTech Rotors:StopTech Select Sport Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors
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PROS
- Reduced brake fade
- Users report excellent braking bite
- Drilled and slotted for extra cooling
- Improved aesthetic to match alloy wheels
- Zinc-plated finish for improved corrosion resistance
CONS
- No extra rust coating for wet-weather climates
- Some users report low-frequency noises when completing a stop
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech Select Sport Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors are the entry-level options in the StopTech lineup, combining performance with affordability.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
Although StopTech’s Select Sport rotors are primarily for sports car enthusiasts or muscle car drivers, everyday drivers that want a bit of extra stopping power may find these rotors suitable. Conversely, aggressive drivers that want premium rotors at an affordable price should discover these rotors strike a nice balance.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
If you’re searching for high-end rotors specifically for street or track racing, you may find other StopTech rotors a better fit for your driving style.
Bottom Line
Affordable yet packed with superb stopping power, StopTech Select Sport Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors provide an entry point for high-end brake parts without a hefty price tag. However, experienced drivers or those who want even more bite may want to look at StopTech’s premium options.
Best StopTech Brake Pads:StopTech Sport Brake Pads
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PROS
- Excellent bite at all speeds
- Superior braking power without fade
- Ideal for everyday driving or lively street driving
- Low amounts of brake dust even under heavy braking
- Excellent alternative to OEM replacements on most vehicles
CONS
- Some users report a short life span
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech Sport Brake Pads are the midrange lineup option, slotted between the StopTech Street and StopTech Race brake pad lines
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
Although StopTech states that these brake pads are ideal for light track usage, some users reported that the temperature gets too hot for the pads to remain effective. As a result, these brake pads are more suited to everyday driving and spirited street driving. It is possible to track these pads if you have a light car though.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
As the mid-range offering, these brake pads provide the best of both worlds: low price and supreme stopping power. But those that need a brake pad for daily driving or touring may want to opt for the StopTech Street Select or StopTech Street brake pads.
Bottom Line
For drivers that want to hit the track, StopTech Sport Brake Pads may not supply the braking power necessary, while everyday drivers may find them on the pricier side. Still, those who want above-average braking performance will find that these will meet their expectations.
Runner-up StopTech Rotors:StopTech GCX Elemental Protection Brake Rotors
PROS
- Superior durability and life span
- Partial RS200 coating on friction service for faster pad bed-in
- Machine finished for improved balance and better aesthetics
- Specifically formulated to eliminate disc thickness variation issues
- Full GEOMET coating on vanes for maximum corrosion and rust protection in all climates
CONS
- Some claim they cause brake pads to glaze more quickly
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech GCX Elemental Protection Brake Rotors fill the void in the company’s lineup by providing the only blank, coated rotor option. As a result, these brake rotors fall in the middle of StopTech’s offerings between the Select Sport (entry-level) and Sport (premium) offerings.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With adding protective coating over other types of StopTech brake rotors, this product is ideal for drivers consistently exposed to the elements. This includes wet weather, coastal, and heavy snow areas, as these rotors can protect against salt and moisture.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
If you don’t live in wet or cold/snowy or climates, these rotors aren’t entirely necessary. In most instances, the other rotors in the StopTech lineup will suffice, specifically the Select Sport variants.
Bottom Line
With extra corrosion-protective coating and quick bed-in of brakes, StopTech GCX Elemental Protection Brake Rotors can stand up to even the harshest weather and deliver excellent stopping power. Dry-climate drivers or those with an affinity for drilled and slotted options should look elsewhere.
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Runner-up StopTech Brake Pads:StopTech Street Select Brake Pads
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PROS
- Low amounts of brake dust
- Multi-layer shims for noise reduction
- Hardware included for easy installation
- OE slots and chamfers for maximum compatibility
- Contains extra friction compounds for better stopping power
CONS
- Not ideal for towing and hauling
- May not have stopping power preferred by drivers of high-performance vehicles
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech Street Select Brake Pads are the introductory level product in StopTech’s lineup. Although less expensive than StopTech’s Sport or Racing lines, these still provide an adequate mix of affordability and braking without excessive noise.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
These brake pads are best for daily driving, commutes, and touring on light-duty trucks and most types of cars, excluding high-performance vehicles.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Drivers aiming for a more responsive braking experience may want to opt for StopTech Sport Brake Pads, as these provide more stopping power than this selection.
Bottom Line
With OE-style fittings, a low price point, and above-average stopping power, StopTech Street Select Brake Pads are an inexpensive way to switch out worn brake pads. However, high-performance drivers may want to opt for brake pads with more grip and bite.
Best StopTech Rotors for the Money:StopTech Sport Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors
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PROS
- Enhanced grip, even in wet-weather climates
- Drilled & slotted rotors protect pads from glazing
- Constructed as a direct replacement for OE brake rotors
- Excellent thermal capacity and bite for all types of driving styles
- Durable black e-coating over the hat for better protection against corrosion
CONS
- Users report lower life span than expected
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech Sport Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors are the premium option from the company, providing the highest amount of braking power. This puts them at the high end of the spectrum in both price and quality, surpassing both the Select Sport and GCX product lines.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With consistent stopping power due to both slots and drilled holes, these brake rotors are ideal for towing, heavy payloads, or those who want peace of mind due to extra stopping power.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Budget-conscious drivers may balk at the higher price of these brake rotors, and instead, opt for the Select Sport. In addition, those in wet, coastal, or snowy areas may prefer the added protection afforded by the GCX Elemental Protection Brake Rotors.
Bottom Line
With corrosion-reducing e-coating, excellent stopping power, and low amounts of brake dust, StopTech Sport Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors are a valuable addition to any vehicle. However, the thrifty and everyday drivers may find an equal option in a lower price range.
Best StopTech Brake Pads for the Money:StopTech Street Brake Pads
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PROS
- Low brake dust formula
- Consistent performance at all speeds
- Formulated to reduce excessive noise
- Designed to match OE-style brake pads
- Includes shims and hardware for quick installation
CONS
- Users report high levels of brake dust, despite the ‘low’ brake dust formula
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech Street Brake Pads are the second-most affordable option from StopTech. This product is a higher tier than StopTech Street Select Brake Pads, but don’t have the superior braking power found in StopTech Sport or StopTech Racing brake pads.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With OE-style design and fit, as well as low amounts of noise and decent stopping power, these brake pads are ideal for commuters, everyday drivers, and leisurely weekend drives.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
If you drive high-performance vehicles or prefer more stopping power, StopTech Sport Brake Pads are a better choice. Those looking to replace their brake pads with a higher-quality product than the entry-level will discover that these pads are an improvement over the Street Select line.
Bottom Line
For non-aggressive drivers and those who don’t own high-performance vehicles, StopTech Street Brake Pads offer excellent stopping power without feeling like overkill. For premium braking and better pedal feel, driving enthusiasts should consider a higher-end brake pad.
Best StopTech Stainless Steel Brake Lines:StopTech Stainless Steel Brake Lines
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PROS
- Works well with older model vehicles
- Several end fittings included for extra compatibility
- Brackets and fasteners included for easy installation
- Braided stainless steel line produces maximum durability
- Consistent brake pressure for a more consistent pedal response
CONS
- Install is lengthy if it’s your first time DIY
Where Does This Model Land in StopTech’s Lineup?
StopTech Stainless Steel Brake Lines only come in one variety, making the decision simple for the indecisive.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
Most cars come off the assembly line with rubber brake lines, which provide acceptable durability at a low cost. However, drivers that want an increased life span in their brake lines should find this product fits the bill. With a rubber tube surrounded by braided stainless steel, durability is at its highest. SS Brake Lines also help combat swelling in aging brake lines, which can make the brakes feel spongy and un-responsive.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
This is the only stainless-steel brake line from StopTech, so if you’re looking for the best, this is it!
Bottom Line
More durable than rubber brake lines, StopTech Stainless Steel Brake Lines are ideal for drivers who want a longer-lasting product or the highest performing brake system.
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What Else Does StopTech Make?
While StopTech is best-known for its brake pads, brake rotors, and brake lines, they also offer a number of other products that work well in unison. If you’re already using StopTech rotors or pads on your vehicle, these other brake pads will provide significant upgrades in the overall performance of your braking system.
Brake Systems
StopTech Big Brake Kits provide the utmost stopping power, making them ideal for track use and energetic street driving. The key to these systems lies in StopTech Balanced Brake Upgrade technology, which distributes front and rear braking that accounts for vehicle weight distribution during braking. In addition, these brake systems provide larger rotors for increased heat capacity, as well as stiffer calipers for improved pedal feel.
Axle Packs
For all-in-one braking solutions, nothing beats StopTech Axle Packs. With direct-fit, pre-matched brakes and rotors in the same box, you can take the guesswork out of aftermarket brake part replacement. These are available in four-wheel, front-wheel, and rear-wheel options.
Accessories (Brake Fluid)
To get the best performance out of your braking system, you need a brake fluid that’s up to the task. Available in both STR-600 (street racing) and STR-660 (track racing) variants, StopTech brake fluid provides optimal braking performance at high temperatures without a loss of viscosity or lubricity.
Stoptech Street vs. Sport – Comparison Overview
Introduced in 2016, both StopTech Street and StopTech Sports products provide excellent stopping and braking for all types of drivers. Here is a quick breakdown of the two product lines
StopTech Street
With brake rotors and brake pads formulated for everyday driving, StopTech Street products eliminate noise while also producing low amounts of brake dust. As a result, drivers don’t have to worry about constantly cleaning their wheels, while also enjoying quiet operation while commuting or running daily errands. This product line is also StopTech’s most affordable, providing braking solutions at a fraction of the price.
StopTech Sport
Originally titled Sport Performance but renamed after an upgrade to the manufacturing process, StopTech Sport products are a superb choice for autocross, lively driving, and light track use. The key to its success as a premium choice for rotors and pads lies in its higher maximum operating temperature. This eliminates brake fade, improves pedal feel, and affords an overall upgrade in your braking system.
Power Stop vs. Stoptech vs. The Competition – Comparison Overview
Power Stop vs. Stoptech
Introduced to the market in 1995, Power Stop is another reputable brand in aftermarket brake parts. However, huge differences lie between this company and StopTech. While StopTech is well-known in racing circuits across the globe, Power Stop is an economical choice that’s more suited to daily driving.
Yet with StopTech products, you’re getting more value for your money, especially if you’re an aggressive or high-performance driver. Overall, StopTech products get the nod over Power Stop for high-end and mid-grade braking performance. But Power Stop still has a price point that’s far lower than that of StopTech, making them a thrifty choice for brake part replacement.
Stoptech vs. Brembo
For 60 years, Brembo has been a leader in aftermarket brake parts. Just like StopTech, the Italian company is highly regarded for racing-inspired components, and more specifically, their brake calipers.
Although both companies have an extensive catalog of products, StopTech provides an extended range of products to meet the needs and budgets of drivers. Most notably, StopTech has a wider array of brake pads for all types of applications.
Still, Brembo is well-respected for its brake rotors, hydraulics, and innovative, proprietary caliper and UV coating technologies. Nevertheless, both companies offer great braking products for the racers at heart.
Stoptech vs. EBC
Started in 1978, EBC Brakes is a global leader in brake pads, supplying over 500 million pads to aftermarket buyers in just over 40 years. As of 2020, EBC is the largest producer of brake pads in the world, operating out of both the U.S. and the U.K. Not only does the company produce brake pads for vehicles, but they’re the biggest manufacturer of aftermarket brake pads for motorcycles. StopTech also provides a vast range of brake pad options, but not to the effect of EBC.
Both companies produce a variety of brake rotors for all types of specifications, as well as accessories. Yet StopTech is more suited to high-performance driving compared to the everyday applications of many EBC products.
Full Speed Ahead
Boasting a diverse line of aftermarket brake products, StopTech continues to impress drivers and mechanics with its quality and affordability. From track racing to commuting, few competitors can match the stellar stopping power, noiseless operation, and overall performance of StopTech.
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People Also Ask
Even with StopTech’s impressive resume and product lines, you may have questions about other aspects of the company. Here are some of the most common inquiries about the StopTech nameplate.
Where Are StopTech Brakes Made?
StopTech currently manufactures a majority of its products at factories in China. However, the company has strong quality control guidelines to ensure the highest standards of its product lineup.
However, StopTech AeroRotors—the company’s patented performance rotors—are casted and machined at a 71,000-square-foot factory in Compton, California. This makes the organization one of the few remaining brake part companies that maintain at least a portion of their manufacturing operations in the United States.
Are Centric and StopTech the Same?
Both Centric and StopTech are subsidiaries of APC Automotive Technologies. However, Centric and StopTech are closely related. Following APC’s purchase of StopTech in 2006, StopTech became Centric’s high performance and racing division for brakes. Conversely, Centric produces an array of brake products geared toward commuting and everyday driving.
Meet the Team!
