Are Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Better Than Ceramic?

By Slyng Team

Updated Feb 18, 2024

In Learn Feb, 2024

Are you looking to replace your brake pads and are wondering what type of brake pad is best for your car? You may have heard that semi-metallic brake pads are better than ceramic brake pads, but do you know why? Are Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Better Than Ceramic Brake Pads? Continue reading to find out!

Table of Contents

    This blog post will discuss the pros and cons of both types of brake pads. So, you can make an informed decision about which type is best for your car. We'll also talk about how to tell if your brakes need to be replaced and how often you should replace them. Stay tuned!

    What Are Brake Pads?

    Brake pads, including any decent replacement brake pads, are the part of your car that reduces the speed of your wheels when pressed against the rotors in your brake calipers. This is done through friction.

    How Do Brakes Work?

    The brake pads and brake rotors in your car don't stop the vehicle. They only slow it down with enough force to activate sensors that can bring your vehicle to a stop.

    If you're not sure how a brake system works, here's what you need to understand. Braking power comes from pressure on the brake pedal. It pushes fluid into the master cylinder forcing pistons outward.

    When these pistons on brake lines push back against the brake pads inside each wheel caliper, it brings both wheels into the rotor. This slows them down and eventually brings the vehicle to a stop.

    Are Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Better Than Ceramic
    Photo Credit: Columbia Auto Car

    What Are The Different Types Of Brake Pads?

    There are four main types of brake pads, including semi-metallic, ceramic, organic, and carbon. Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Pads usually last anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000 miles before they need to be replaced, and that's just how brake pads work. But, of course, it depends on your driving habits.

    Ceramic Brake Pads

    The number one reason people buy ceramic brake pads is that they think they can help the environment by using a product that isn't bad for the earth. But there are other reasons why people prefer ceramic brakes as well. For example, ceramic brake pads have very little wear on them. So, if you live in an area where you have to deal with snow or ice often during the winter months, these types of pads might be best for you.

    Ceramic brake pads don't perform well when they're wet. So, if you live in an area where it often rains during the fall/winter months, you may want to use another type of brake pad instead (more on this later). Unfortunately, they also don't work for very long after getting wet or covered in snow or ice. This means that if it's not safe to drive your car while its brakes are wet, ceramic brake pads might not be your best bet. 

    Organic Brake Pads

    Organic brake pads were good for about ten years but then made way for the more popular ceramic option. These brakes use asbestos to improve their performance and give drivers better braking power. However, asbestos is hazardous to your health. Therefore, it's not recommended for daily use.

    Organic pads were phased out due to their potential adverse effects on drivers and the environment. Organic brake pads' wear today is that they perform well in wet and cold conditions. But, they need to be replaced less frequently than semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads. They don't work too well when they're dry because these types of brakes don't have high-performance levels. These brake pads also create a lot of dust compared to other options. This condition can be dangerous for drivers who are asthmatic or have allergies.

    Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

    Semi-metallic brakes are durable, reliable, quiet, and long-lasting. These qualities make them an excellent choice for drivers who don't want to replace their brake pads every few months. They're also suitable for drivers who live in areas where it rains or snows often. This is because they work well with either scenario.

    Carbon Ceramic Brake Pads

    Carbon ceramic brake pads are the newest option on the market. They are ideal for drivers who live in areas where it rains or snows often. In addition, they're one of the most durable types on the market. So, if you don't want to deal with replacing your brake pads every month or so, this is a good option for you. They also offer excellent performance when braking over high speeds. Moreover, they also have minimal dust build-up throughout their lifetime. This makes them appealing to people who don't like driving around covered in dirt and dust. 

    Are Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Better Than Ceramic
    Photo Credit: Auto Evolution

    What Is The Difference Between Semi-Metallic And Ceramic Brake Pads?

    Semi-Metallic

    A semi-metallic brake pad is pretty durable. But, it tends to produce more dust than most other types of brake pads. This makes them less appealing as an option because they don't perform as well in wet conditions as ceramic brakes do.

    Semi-metallic pads also create a lot of noise when you first start applying your brakes. It can also be pretty loud when braking over high speeds. This is why semi-metallic brake pads are ideal for trucks. 

    Ceramic

    Ceramic brake pads are newer brake pads introduced to replace conventional semi-metallic brake pads.

    They perform well in wet conditions. This makes them perfect for drivers from stormy areas, where it gets pretty bad during the fall and winter months caused by brake dust.

    What Are The Advantages Of Semi-Metallic Brake Pads?

    Semi-metallic brake pads are long-lasting and durable. This means they can last you a very long time without having to be replaced. In addition, these brake pads don't make as much dust as ceramic brake pads do. This quality makes them appealing for people who hate being covered from head to toe with thick dust after a drive to work.

    They also improve the stopping power of your car. This is excellent if you're concerned with safety and want your car to have strong breaking during stops. 

    Are Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Better Than Ceramic
    Photo Credit: AMS Automotive

    What Are The Advantages Of Ceramic Brake Pads?

    Another great thing about ceramic pads is that they don't make as much noise when you start using them during a drive. This is an essential factor for drivers looking for a quiet ride.

    These brake pads also have excellent stopping power and work well in wet conditions. So, it makes them ideal for people from stormy areas where it tends to rain or snow year-round.

    Are Semi-Metallic Brake Pads Way Better Than Ceramic?

    Semi-metallic brake pads are ideal for cars that don't see too much action during the day, making them more suitable for trucks. They're also long-lasting and durable, but they tend to produce more dust than ceramic brake pads do.

    Meanwhile, ceramic brake pads are new on the market. Most companies haven't started making cars with this brake pad installed yet. This is why you won't find many options to choose from when buying a car).

    However, both semi-metallic brake pads and ceramic ones offer excellent stopping power and work well in wet conditions. This is important for drivers who live in areas where it often rains or snow throughout the year. 

    Where To Buy Semi-Metallic And Ceramic Brake Pads?

    Brake pads are a reasonably inexpensive braking system. That means there isn't a big price difference when comparing semi-metallic brake pads to ceramic brake pads.

    That being said, it's safe to say that brake pads are an essential part of your car. They help you stop quickly and safely, so it's essential to choose the right type for your car. Road Cartel has a wide selection of semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads to choose from, so you can find the perfect set for your vehicle.

    Our ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads are made with the latest technology and materials. So, you can be sure they'll last longer and provide better braking performance than other brands on the market. Plus, our prices are unbeatable. So, you can get the best brake pads without breaking the bank.

    Order your new set of brake pads today on our website!