Turnabot N10 Planetary gearmotor
They’re here. The Turnabot N10 Planetary Gearmotors deliver big power in a micro package, answering a long-standing need for truly durable planetary drive motors at a very small size. Superior to spur gear motors, they’re built around a true 12mm all-metal planetary gearbox, with weights starting at just 13.8g—designed to survive combat robotics abuse while saving significant weight over 16mm planetaries. Compact enough for tight drive layouts and demanding lightweight mechanisms.
$18.00
22 in stock (can be backordered)
Why a Planetary Gearmotor?
In combat robotics, drive motors are exposed to repeated shock loads, sudden reversals, and side impacts that quickly reveal the limits of traditional spur gearboxes. Planetary gearboxes distribute load across multiple gears and through a rigid carrier and ring, significantly improving impact resistance while increasing torque capacity within the same diameter envelope.
The Turnabot N10 Planetary Gearmotors are built around a true 12mm all-metal planetary gearbox, offering a substantial durability upgrade over spur gear motors of similar size. This design helps resist shaft bending, gear tooth shear, and retention failures that commonly end matches early in small weight classes.
Compact, Durable, and Weight-Efficient
Designed specifically for very small combat robots and tightly packaged mechanisms, the N10 planetary format delivers impressive torque while keeping overall mass to a minimum. Weights start at just 13.8g, allowing builders to allocate more weight to armor, weapons, or additional drive motors without sacrificing drivetrain reliability.
Compared to larger 16mm planetary gearmotors, the N10 format provides meaningful weight savings while remaining compact enough for narrow chassis layouts, articulated mechanisms, and space-constrained drivetrains common in the smallest competitive robots.
Output Shaft and Wheel Retention
Each N10 planetary gearmotor features a robust output shaft with a machined retention notch and ships with a circlip for secure wheel retention. This system dramatically improves resistance to wheel loss under weapon hits and wall impacts, a frequent failure mode for small spur gearmotors and smooth-shaft designs.
Speed, Torque, and Electrical Considerations
The Turnabot N10 Planetary Gearmotors are available in multiple speed options to suit different drive styles and applications. Published RPM values should be considered typical measured performance under standard conditions; engraved motor markings may not reflect final output speed once installed in a planetary gearbox or operated at different voltages.
Manufacturer testing and recommendations frequently reference Malenki Standard and Malenki HV brushed ESCs, which are known to work well with these motors. Other brushed ESCs may also be used, provided their current capability and voltage ratings are appropriate for the selected motor variant and battery configuration. Always verify ESC and battery specifications when designing your drivetrain.
Features
- N10 motor plus planetary drivetrain: Combines the familiar N10 motor size with a real all-metal planetary gearbox, delivering a durability and torque upgrade over traditional spur gear N motors.
- All-metal 12mm planetary gearbox: Planetary load sharing improves shock resistance, helping the drivetrain survive weapon hits, wall impacts, and sudden reversals common in combat robotics.
- Ultralight, weight-efficient design: Weights start at just 13.8g, freeing valuable mass for armor, weapons, or multi-motor drive configurations.
- Compact form factor: Small enough for narrow chassis layouts, articulated mechanisms, and tightly packaged drivetrains where larger planetaries are not practical.
- Multiple speed options: Available in a range of RPM variants to support different drive styles, from controlled pushing bots to higher-speed configurations.
- Robust output shaft with retention groove: Designed to support secure wheel retention under impact, while remaining compatible with a variety of hub and retention strategies.
Specifications
Motor Specifications
| Motor Specifications (TB N10) | Value |
| Gearbox Diameter | 12mm |
| Output Shaft Diameter | 3mm |
| Output Shaft Length | 16mm |
| Overall Length | 36.85mm |
| Mounting Holes | 2× M2 |
| Mounting Hole Spacing | 8.5mm |
| Wheel Retention Feature | Retention groove (circlip included) |
| Typical Weight | Starts at 13.8g |
Planetary Motor Family Comparison
| TB N10 | TB N20 | TB N30 2S | TB N30 3S | |
| Weight (g) | 13.8 | 15.2 | 17.8 | 17.8 |
| 2S Speed (RPM) | 1540 | 1300 | 1250 | 1440 |
| 2S Current (A) | 1.1 | 2.1 | 3.1 | 2.2 |
| 2S Torque (g·cm) | 769 | 1385 | 0 | |
| 3S Speed (RPM) | 2310 | 1950 | 1875 | 2160 |
| 3S Current (A) | 1.65 | 3.15 | 4.65 | 3.3 |
| 3S Torque (g·cm) | 1154 | 2077 | 0 | |
| Recommended ESC | Malenki Standard or equivalent brushed ESC | Malenki Standard or Malenki HV, or equivalent | Malenki HV or equivalent high-current ESC | Malenki HV or equivalent high-current ESC |
| Recommended Battery | 2S–3S LiPo (application dependent) | 2S–3S LiPo (application dependent) | 2S LiPo recommended | 3S LiPo recommended |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn’t the RPM engraved on the motor match the RPM listed in the specs?
The RPM values listed in the specifications represent typical measured output speed under real operating conditions. Engraved markings on the motor can reflect nominal ratings, different test voltages, or manufacturer labeling conventions and should not be relied on as final output speed once installed in a planetary gearbox. Always use the published specs for drivetrain design.
Do I have to use a Malenki ESC with these motors?
No. The manufacturer’s recommendations reference Malenki Standard and Malenki HV ESCs because they are known, tested combinations. Other brushed ESCs can work as long as their voltage and current ratings are appropriate for the motor variant and battery you are using. Always verify ESC specifications before installation.
Can I run the N10 planetary motors on both 2S and 3S?
Yes. N10 planetary gearmotors are commonly used on both 2S and 3S LiPo batteries depending on the selected motor variant and application. Higher voltage increases speed and current draw, so ensure your ESC and battery are rated accordingly.
Do I have to use the included circlip for wheel retention?
No. The retention groove and included circlip provide a secure option for wheel retention under impact, but many builders choose to use set-screw or clamping hubs instead. The retention groove does not prevent the use of common hub styles.
What tools are required to install or remove the circlip?
Circlips are typically installed and removed using small snap-ring pliers or fine needle-nose pliers. Care should be taken during installation and removal to avoid scratching the shaft or generating metal debris. If you prefer not to work with circlips, compatible set-screw or clamping hubs can be used instead.
Will my existing N10 motor mounts fit these gearmotors?
The gearbox diameter follows the standard 12mm planetary format, but overall length and shaft features differ from spur-gear N motors. Always verify dimensions against your chassis or CAD before final installation, especially in tight layouts.
Are these motors only for combat robotics?
While designed for the shock loads and abuse common in combat robotics, these motors are also well-suited for any application requiring compact size, higher torque capacity, and improved durability compared to traditional spur gearmotors.