Which is better Ceramic or Semi-metallic Brake Pads?

The brakes are without a doubt the most important part of the vehicle as an efficient braking system is what conveniently slows down your car’s momentum and brings it to halt. It is important to understand how the brake pads work before you can decide which type of brake pad is right for you.

How do the brake pads work?

When you press the brake pedal on your car, fluid is pushed through brake lines to each wheel. The brake pads apply pressure to the rotor (disc)and this pressure creates the friction which is required to stop the car.

What are the brake pads made of?

The traditional brake pads were made of a material called asbestos which used to be effective but highly toxic due to its heat-absorbing property. Nowadays, brake pads can be categorized into three types Organic, Ceramic, and Semi-metallic. The latter two are usually preferred over the organic and we will discuss which one is better.

Ceramic Brake Pad

The ceramic brake pads are made with a mixture of ceramic material with copper fibers and these fibers are excellent for increasing friction and improve heat conductivity. The ceramic brake pads are mainly popular for being low noise and producing fewer dust particles as they tear down over time. They are also known to perform well in a range of different temperatures and driving conditions. However, ceramic brake pads are expensive than semi-metallic and organic pads.

Semi-metallic Brake Pad

The semi-metallic brake pads (also called metallic brake pads) are made from metals including copper, iron, steel, and other alloys. These pads are usually preferred by those with high-performance vehicles as metals are a good conductor of heat and can withstand more heat. However, semi-metallic brake pads are noisier and sometimes add more stress to the brake rotors.

Which one should I choose?

Choosing the right brake pad type depends on certain factors but we will try to make it easier for you. If you own a high-performance car or your driving style is different than a regular commuter then you should go for the semi-metallic brake pads. However, if you drive regularly around the city and do not indulge in any high-performance activity such as speeding or towing then the ceramic brakes are ideal for you.