Yes, the ESC can make it run hotter, even though it runs good. The programing makes it run smooth, but the quality of the components inside create more resistance and therefore more heat. And I'm not knocking HW since I run one in my SCT 410. But it can make the motor run hot due to esc components. I run a Advanced Electronics black diamond esc,(mostly because I always drooled over them and got a HELL of a deal on a used one) and I can push it as hard as I want with my 17.5 and it barely gets over ambient room temp. Its made with all Mil-Spec components. lower price speed controls are built with components from the lowest bidder so there is a variance in component quality, some run cool, some real hot and no telling for sure what your gonna get.
Not saying you need one like mine, just saying the insides affect the outsides, lol
It IS nice to have a speedo that is way better than me, although it takes away something to blame my driving on,lol