The rx8 really allowed me to tune the extremely brutal powerband of the 1/8th motor so that power delivery was incredibly smooth compared to a simple punch setting such as that on the HW and other escs on the market. I am thrifty as well as money isnt exactly growing on trees, but the difference in feel between the hw 150/120a (ive had both) and a well tuned gen 2 rx8 is substantial. Money very well spent in my opinion because the refined power delivery makes the e 1/8th more enjoyable and easier to drive. This was just my experience, take it for what you will. Im not sponsored and I buy stuff I think is worth the money.