If you tow a caravan, boat trailer, or work trailer an electric brake controller is an essential piece of kit. They’re important because they keep you, your family and the other vehicles on the road safe, and it’s also a legal requirement to have working brakes if your trailer weighs over 750kg.
So if you want peace of mind when you tow and you want to be safe and confident, an electric brake controller is the go.
But which one should you choose? There are a bunch of models out there, and landing on the right one for you and your towing setup is important, especially given how integral they are to safe towing.
To help you out, we’ve put together this introduction to what we feel are four of the best brake controllers out there. We all use these ourselves on our own trailers here at Speedy Towbars, and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anybody. The four controllers are:
- Tow-Pro Elite V3
- Tow-Pro Link
- Elecbrakes VM1
- Elecbrakes EB2
Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader, a family on the road, or running a hire fleet, there’s an option to suit your needs.
Overview of the Four Controllers
REDARC Tow-Pro Elite V3
The Tow-Pro Elite V3 is REDARC’s flagship brake controller, a solid all-rounder known for its reliability and flexibility. It’s neatly dash-mounted, with just a small control knob visible, keeping things tidy inside your vehicle.
What sets it apart is the dual-mode operation. You get proportional braking for everyday towing on the highway, and a user-controlled mode for low-speed or off-road conditions. That makes it ideal if you tow in a mix of environments.
The fully ADR-compliant V3 supports both 12V and 24V systems and works with both electric and electric hydraulic brakes. It integrates smoothly with ESC systems so won’t interfere with your vehicle’s built-in safety features.
Tried and tested across Australia, the Tow-Pro Elite V3 is a top choice if you’re looking for dependability and versatility.
Ideal for: touring 4WDs, tradies, and anyone wanting a clean, permanent install.
REDARC Tow-Pro Link
The Tow-Pro Link is REDARC’s newer, more flexible option that simplifies installation by mounting near the towbar instead of inside the dash. It’s controlled via a USB remote and the REDARC app, so there’s no need to cut into your dashboard. Great for modern vehicles or leased cars.
Despite the simpler setup, it’s packed with features. A built-in 6-axis motion sensor ensures smooth proportional braking, and there’s a handy sway control override button for added safety in tough conditions.
It’s rugged, sealed, and built to handle harsh Aussie environments, making it a smart choice for off-roaders and tradies who want a quick install without sacrificing performance.
Ideal for: Quick installs, frequent towers, and rugged conditions.
Elecbrakes VM1
The Elecbrakes VM1 brings wireless convenience to towing. It mounts directly to your trailer or vehicle and is controlled through a smartphone app, remote, or your vehicle’s Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
It’s ideal for towing multiple trailers, with up to five saved presets and smart brake adjustments based on slope. Built tough with an IP67-rated seal, it’s ready for all kinds of Aussie conditions.
If you like clean installs and modern control options, the VM1 is a sleek, reliable choice.
Ideal for: Drivers who tow multiple trailers and want tech-friendly, wireless control.
Elecbrakes EB2
The EB2 is a true plug-and-play option that’s easy to set up. It mounts directly to the trailer, with no wiring needed in your vehicle.
You control it via a smartphone app, remote or your vehicle’s infotainment system using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It’s also IP67 rated, so it stands up well to dust, water and rough conditions.
If you regularly switch between tow vehicles or just want a fast, fuss-free solution, the EB2 is a smart pick.
Ideal for: Hire fleets, multi-vehicle families, or anyone wanting total plug-and-play flexibility.
Which Brake Controller is Right for You?
Choosing the right brake controller all comes down to how you tow, what you tow and what kind of setup suits your lifestyle.
- Want a traditional wired install with maximum compatibility and hands-on control? You can’t go past the Tow-Pro Elite V3. It’s been the go-to for years for a reason — it just works, and it works well.
- Prefer something that’s quicker and easier to install, without compromising on performance? The Tow-Pro Link is your mate. Clean, simple, and intuitive, it gets the job done without the extra fuss.
- If you’re a bit of a tech lover and like the idea of adjusting your brake settings from your phone or infotainment system via Carplay or Android Auto, the VM1 will feel right at home in your setup. It brings wireless control and modern convenience into the world of towing.
- And if you’re chasing the easiest, most portable option, especially if you swap between vehicles, then the EB2 should tick your boxes. Plug it in, sync it up, and you’re good to go.
Contact Speedy Towbars with Your Brake Controller Questions
We’re always here for the towing community if you have any questions about electric brake controllers or towing safety in general.
At the end of the day, if you opt for one of the four brake controllers above, you’re choosing safety, quality, and peace of mind. Each one is fully ADR compliant and built to handle tough Aussie conditions.
Ultimately, it’s about towing with confidence. You want to know your setup is safe, smart, legal, and ready for anything the road throws at you.
Still unsure? Drop by Speedy Towbars or give us a shout. We’ll help you find the electric brake controller that’s just right for you.
Jordan is the co-owner of Speedy Towbars and a trusted source of towbar knowledge for Queensland drivers. When he's not installing towbars, he treasures time with his family and hitting the road for caravanning adventures!