BLHeli_S vs BLHeli_32: Which ESC Firmware for FPV?
BLHeli_S runs on 8-bit microcontrollers, while BLHeli_32 runs on 32-bit ARM microcontrollers. BLHeli_32 supports bidirectional DShot, which sends motor RPM back to the flight controller for RPM filtering. Stock BLHeli_S has no built-in bidirectional DShot. The SpeedyBee F7 V3 stack with a BLHeli_32 ESC costs $145.99, and the SoloGood stack with a BLHeli_S ESC costs $101.99.
Quick facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| BLHeli_S MCU | 8-bit BusyBee microcontrollers |
| BLHeli_32 MCU | 32-bit ARM microcontrollers |
| BLHeli_S DShot | DShot from revision 16.5 |
| BLHeli_32 DShot | Bidirectional DShot in version 32.7 |
| BLHeli_32 stable version | 32.7, per Betaflight |
| Lowest price stack here | $47.63 for the F722 Mini stack |
What is the core difference between BLHeli_S and BLHeli_32?
BLHeli_S runs on 8-bit BusyBee microcontrollers. BLHeli_32 runs on 32-bit ARM microcontrollers with more headroom.
BLHeli_S is open source. BLHeli_32 is closed source and licensed to ESC makers, with the license cost in the hardware price, per Betaflight.
The 32-bit chip handles higher PWM rates and more features. That is why BLHeli_32 feels smoother on fast throttle changes.
What is bidirectional DShot and why does it matter?
Bidirectional DShot sends motor RPM and telemetry back from the ESC to the flight controller. It uses the same wire as the throttle signal.
RPM filtering uses that RPM data to filter gyro noise at the motor speed. It is widely seen as the gold standard for noise rejection in Betaflight PID loops.
BLHeli_32 supports bidirectional DShot in version 32.7. Stock BLHeli_S has no built-in bidirectional DShot, so it needs third-party firmware for RPM filtering.
Which BLHeli_32 version should you run?
Betaflight recommends version 32.7 as the stable release for fixed PWM output. It supports bidirectional DShot and RPM filtering.
Betaflight warns against versions 32.8 and 32.9. Reports cite DShot errors and stuck or hot motors on those releases.
Check the version in the configurator before you fly a new stack. A stack that ships on 32.8 needs a downgrade to 32.7.
How do you tell which firmware your ESC runs?
Read the listing before you buy. The SpeedyBee F7 V3 stack lists a BL32 4-in-1 ESC, which means BLHeli_32.
The SoloGood F722 stack lists a BLS 4-in-1 ESC, which means BLHeli_S. The F405 V3 stack also lists a BLHeli_S ESC.
Connect the ESC to its configurator to confirm. BLHeli_S and BLHeli_32 use different configurators that do not mix.
Which firmware fits your build?
BLHeli_32 fits a 5-inch freestyle or racing build where RPM filtering matters. The SpeedyBee F7 V3 stack costs $145.99 with a BLHeli_32 ESC.
BLHeli_S fits a budget build or a small quad where cost matters more. The F722 Mini stack costs $47.63 with a 55A 4-in-1 ESC.
Both firmwares fly well on basic setups. Pick BLHeli_32 when you tune PID loops hard, and BLHeli_S when you fly stock tunes.
How the options compare
| Firmware | MCU | Bidirectional DShot | License | Stable version |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLHeli_S | 8-bit BusyBee | No, stock firmware | Open source | 16.7 |
| BLHeli_32 | 32-bit ARM | Yes, from 32.7 | Closed, licensed | 32.7 |
How do you pick BLHeli_S or BLHeli_32?
- Decide if you need RPM filtering for your tune.
- Read the ESC listing for BL32 or BLS in the name.
- Pick BLHeli_32 for hard tuning and freestyle.
- Pick BLHeli_S for a budget build or a small quad.
- Check the firmware version in the configurator before the first flight.
Parts that fit this guide
In-stock parts ship from the New York, USA warehouse in 1-2 business days. Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 10, 2026.
F722 Mini 20×20 Stack with 55A 4-in-1 ESC, 3-6S ($47.63)
Mini stack at $47.63. It pairs an F722 Mini controller with a 55A 4-in-1 ESC on 3S to 6S.
F405 V3 30×30 Stack with 50A/60A 4-in-1 ESC ($66.10)
Stack at $66.10. It pairs an F405 V3 controller with a 50A or 60A BLHeli_S 4-in-1 ESC.
Aocoda F465S V4 Stack with F405 FC and 65A ESC for FPV Racing ($96.29)
Stack at $96.29. It pairs an F405 controller with a 65A ESC for FPV racing.
SoloGood F722 F7 80A Stack with 4-in-1 BLS ESC for 7-15 Inch FPV Freestyle ($101.99)
Stack at $101.99. It pairs an F722 controller with an 80A BLS 4-in-1 ESC for 7 to 15 inch builds.
SpeedyBee F7 V3 50A Stack with BL32 4-in-1 ESC for FPV Racing ($145.99)
Stack at $145.99. It pairs an F7 V3 controller with a 50A BL32 4-in-1 ESC for FPV racing.
Shop the full range: FPV Flight Controller Stacks at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can BLHeli_S do bidirectional DShot?
No, not in stock firmware. Third-party firmware adds it, but stock BLHeli_S has no built-in support.
Is BLHeli_32 worth the extra cost?
Yes, for hard tuning. Bidirectional DShot gives RPM filtering, which cleans gyro noise for aggressive PID tunes.
Which BLHeli_32 version is safe?
Version 32.7, per Betaflight. Avoid 32.8 and 32.9, which have reports of stuck or hot motors.
Do BLHeli_S and BLHeli_32 use the same configurator?
No. Each firmware has its own configurator, and the two do not mix.
Sources
Last updated: November 10, 2026.