Elecbrakes EB2 vs VM1: What’s the Difference?

We get asked this question a lot at Speedy Towbars: 

What’s the difference between the Elecbrakes EB2 and VM1 brake controllers?

It’s a fair question – they look similar and ultimately they do the same job of controlling your trailer’s electric brakes. 

There are some key differences, though, and we’re going to go through those, and the similarities, so you’ll have a good grasp on which brake controller is right for your towing setup. Have a look at this video before reading on: 

The Big Difference: How They Install

This is where the two units part ways.

The Elecbrakes EB2 is a plug-and-play electric brake controller that plugs into the vehicle’s trailer socket, drawing power from your trailer park and brake lights. Mount it to your trailer or vehicle, connect the app and you’re good to go. There’s no drilling or dash wiring or permanent changes to the vehicle. You get great portability, which is very attractive if you use multiple vehicles to tow the same trailer. You simply unplug it and move it across to a different ute or SUV without any extra cost or hassle. For more frequent use we recommend utilising the EB’s optional dedicated power input by installing a 12V power feed into your cars trailer socket.

The Elecbrakes VM1 works differently. It’s built for a permanent, single-vehicle install. Power comes straight from your 12V battery, and it connects directly into your trailer plug. No fiddly adaptors, no extra connections sitting in between the car and trailer. The result is a clean and professional install that’s fully integrated into your vehicle without any dashboard modifications. If you’ve got one dedicated tow vehicle and multiple trailers, then the VM1 could be the best solution for you.

What The EB2 and VM1 Share

To install both products, no dashboard modifications are required. Your interior stays clean and fresh, your warranty stays intact. 

Moving past the installation method, there’s even more in common. 

Both the EB2 and VM1 are made in Australia and have an IP67 waterproof rating. They can handle the Queensland rain downpours, and you can put them through beach runs and river crossings without thinking twice. They’re a local product, built with knowledge of the local context. This makes the Elecbrakes brake controllers perfect companions for your Aussie roadtrips. 

Both units are also controlled via the Elecbrakes Bluetooth app which is available on iPhone and Android. The app allows you to adjust braking sensitivity, create up to five custom profiles for different trailers, check real-time braking data and apply manual braking on the go. It’s super intuitive and easy to use. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility means you can manage your brake controller from your car’s touchscreen. You can also use the Elecbrakes remote to control them, which can be purchased as an optional extra. 

EB2 at a Glance

• Plug-and-play install
• Powered by tail light and brake light circuits
• Portable across multiple vehicles and trailers
• Bluetooth app control with CarPlay and Android Auto support
• IP67 waterproof, Australian-made
• Optional dedicated 12V power supply circuit

VM1 at a Glance

• Permanent single-vehicle install
• Powered directly from the 12V battery
• Installs into trailer plug, no joins or splices
• No dashboard modifications required
• Bluetooth app control with CarPlay and Android Auto support
• IP67 waterproof, Australian-made

Which Brake Controller Is Right for You?

As Josh puts it in the video, these two brake controllers are very similar. The main question is how you tow.

If you swap between vehicles, a work ute during the week and the family wagon on weekends for example, the EB2 gives you the flexibility to move your controller without any fuss. It’s also a straightforward entry point if you’re new to electric brake controllers and want a clean, low-commitment install.

If you have one vehicle you always tow with and you want a permanent, tidy solution with a direct battery connection, the VM1 is worth looking at.

Both controllers comply with Australian towing regulations, and both will give you reliable, safe and proportional braking on the road. We love these products here at Speedy Towbars, and don’t hesitate to recommend them to our customers.

Get in Touch with Speedy Towbars

If you’ve got any more questions about the EB2 and VM1 brake controllers, or any other towing-related questions, our team is here for you. Give us a call on 1300 SPEEDY or get in touch here. 

We fit both of these units regularly and we’re happy to talk through your setup and steer you in the right direction. You can also drop into our Everton Hills or Slacks Creek locations for a chat, no appointment needed. See you soon!