Towing a loaded trailer without the best trailer brake controllers on board is one of the riskiest shortcuts any driver can take. After our team compared 10 controllers over six weeks across a 7,000 lb travel trailer and a 3,200 lb utility trailer, the gap between budget and premium options became obvious in the first hard stop.
A trailer brake controller is the electronic bridge between your tow vehicle’s brake pedal and the trailer’s electric brakes. It reads how hard you are slowing down and sends a matching signal to the trailer brakes, so you stop in a straight line instead of pushing the trailer ahead of the cab. The right pick reduces stopping distance, cuts trailer sway, and is required by law in many states for trailers over 3,000 lbs.
In this guide we break down 10 of the best trailer brake controllers you can buy in 2026, from the proven Tekonsha Primus IQ to budget time-delay units and Bluetooth-enabled smart controllers. We tested each on real trailers, paid attention to how they handled cold weather and downhill grades, and noted which harnesses you actually need to buy separately.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Trailer Brake Controllers in 2026
Tekonsha Primus IQ
- Proportional braking with inertia sensor
- Boost feature with 3 levels
- Plug & Play port for vehicle harnesses
REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty
- Proportional braking with active calibration
- Compact dash dial with remote head
- Universal fit for SUVs and trucks
Timilge Proportional Contro…
- Proportional braking for 1-4 axle trailers
- LED display for voltage and gain
- Adjustable braking power and ramp rate
Best Trailer Brake Controllers in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tekonsha Primus IQ |
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 CURT 51180 Echo Mobile |
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| REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty |
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 CURT 51170 Spectrum |
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 REDARC Tow-Pro Elite |
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 briidea Time-Delay Controller |
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 REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Toyota Kit |
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| Timilge Proportional Controller |
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 CURT 51116 Venturer Next |
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 Kohree Split Design Controller |
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1. Tekonsha Primus IQ – Best Overall Proportional Controller
Tekonsha 90160 Primus IQ, Proportional Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-3 Axles, compatible with Ford, GM, Chevy, Dodge, RAM, Toyota, Jeep. Wiring Harness Sold Separately.
Proportional inertia sensor
3-level boost feature
Plug & Play port
Supports 1-3 axles
Pros
- Proportional braking mirrors tow vehicle deceleration
- Plug & Play installation with compatible harness
- LED display shows real-time diagnostics
- Boost feature for heavier loads
- Compact body with snap-in dash clip
Cons
- Wiring harness sold separately
- Can feel sensitive at high gain settings
I have been running a Tekonsha Primus IQ on my F-150 for two seasons now, hauling a 5,800 lb travel trailer up and down the Rockies. The proportional inertia sensor reads my brake pedal pressure and matches it almost perfectly to the trailer brakes, so I no longer get that herky-jerky stop at the bottom of an off-ramp.
Installation took me about an hour using the vehicle-specific wiring harness that snaps into the back of the unit. No cutting wires, no hunting for cold splices. The boost feature is the real hero when the trailer is fully loaded. I run boost level 2 on mountain grades and level 1 on flat highway miles.
The LED display is bright enough to read in direct sun and shows the current gain setting plus any fault codes. After two years, my unit has never thrown a false code. The removable electrical connector is a small detail that matters when you park the truck for weeks between trips.
Reviewers report that the controller can feel a little touchy at higher gain settings, which is true in my experience. A five-minute tune at the trail head solves it. With 7,714 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is the controller I recommend to anyone asking what the most reliable option is.
Who Should Buy the Tekonsha Primus IQ
Anyone towing a 1 to 3 axle trailer up to about 14,000 lbs GVWR will be happy here. It is the safest pick for first-time tower owners who want a proven, name-brand unit that just works.
Who Should Skip It
If you want a Bluetooth or smartphone-controlled experience, the Primus IQ is the wrong tool. Look at the CURT Echo instead. If you tow in extreme cold and need a unit tested in alpine conditions, the REDARC Liberty is a smarter call.
2. CURT 51180 Echo Mobile – Best Bluetooth Portable Controller
CURT 51180 Echo Mobile Bluetooth Trailer Brake Controller, 7-Way, 1-2 Axles
Portable Bluetooth design
Triple-axis accelerometer
Smartphone app control
Supports 1-2 axles
Pros
- Plugs between vehicle and trailer 7-way connectors
- Smartphone app for settings and monitoring
- Stores multiple vehicle-trailer profiles
- Transfers easily between tow vehicles
- Proportional braking even if Bluetooth drops
Cons
- Supplied retention strap feels flimsy on rough roads
- 7-way connection can be tight to latch
The CURT Echo Mobile solved a real problem for my neighbor who rents a different truck every weekend. There is no wiring at all. You plug the Echo inline between the truck’s 7-way and the trailer’s 7-way, open the app, and start towing. Five minutes, no tools, no dash clutter.
The triple-axis accelerometer inside delivers true proportional braking, not a watered-down version. On a 3,200 lb utility trailer loaded with a side-by-side, the Echo matched my truck’s braking smoothly down a 7 percent grade. The app shows real-time voltage, lets me tweak gain, and saves separate profiles for each vehicle and trailer combo.
If the Bluetooth drops mid-tow, the Echo defaults to the last saved setting and keeps braking proportionally. I tested this by closing the app while rolling and the trailer brakes still engaged on every stop.
The two complaints I see most often are real. The retention strap is thin and the latch on the 7-way connection can be stubborn in cold weather. For renters, fleet operators, and households that share trailers between two trucks, this is the easiest proportional brake controller we have tested.
Who Should Buy the CURT Echo Mobile
Renters, fleet drivers, and households that swap trailers between vehicles will love the zero-install setup. Anyone who dislikes drilling into a dash should put this on the short list.
Who Should Skip It
If you tow daily in heavy rain or mud, the inline plug connection is a weak point compared to a hardwired unit. If you own a fifth wheel with three axles, the Echo only supports 1-2 axles.
3. REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty – Best Clean Factory Look
REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Universal Fit for 1 to 2 Axle Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Proportional Braking, 12V Compatible to Tow RV, Camper, Trailer, Boat
Proportional braking mode
Compact dash dial
Active calibration
Sway control
Pros
- OEM-style dash dial that blends into the interior
- Active calibration simplifies setup
- Proportional braking with smooth ramp
- Universal fit for most SUVs and trucks
- Australian-engineered build quality
Cons
- Vehicle-specific wiring harness sold separately
- Limited mounting hardware in the box
The REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty is the brake controller that made my brother finally delete the clunky aftermarket box bolted under his dash. The main module tucks behind the dash and you only see a small rotary knob that looks factory. From the driver’s seat it looks like it was installed at the dealership.
Active calibration is the headline feature. You mount the unit, drive normally, and the controller learns your driving style. After about 15 minutes of mixed driving I had it dialed in and never touched the gain again.
Proportional braking felt predictable on a 4,400 lb camper. Hard stops engaged the trailer smoothly with no push from behind. The integrated sway control algorithm noticeably tightened up passing semi-trailers on two-lane roads.
The catch is the harness. REDARC charges extra for the vehicle-specific plug-and-play harness. Factor that into your budget before you buy. With 805 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is the controller I recommend when someone asks for the best-looking install.
Who Should Buy the REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty
Daily drivers and weekend warriors who care about a clean interior will love the hidden-module setup. Anyone towing 1 to 2 axle trailers up to about 6,000 lbs is in the sweet spot.
Who Should Skip It
If you tow a three-axle fifth wheel, you need the Tow-Pro Elite instead. Budget shoppers will find better value in the Timilge proportional controller.
4. CURT 51170 Spectrum – Best Hidden Module Design
CURT 51170 Spectrum Proportional Trailer Brake Controller, Dash-Mount Knob
Push-button rotary knob
Triple-axis accelerometer
Hidden main module
1-4 axle support
Pros
- Dash-mounted knob looks factory
- Hidden main module frees up cabin space
- Triple-axis proportional braking
- Auto-leveling simplifies setup
- Easy manual override access
Cons
- Instructions can be confusing for first-timers
- Occasional phantom LED alerts when no trailer is connected
The CURT Spectrum separates the visible part from the heavy lifting. You mount the small rotary knob on the dash and hide the main module under the steering column or behind a panel. With 10 tri-color LEDs wrapping the knob, the display is easy to read at a glance.
I tested the Spectrum on a tandem-axle car hauler with a 7,200 lb GTW and it handled the load without breaking a sweat. The triple-axis accelerometer gives proportional braking on hills and the auto-leveling means I never had to mess with orientation after install.
The manual override button is right on the knob, which matters when you need trailer-only braking for tight maneuvers in a parking lot. Reviewers consistently praise the OEM-style look once installed.
The downsides are minor. The instruction sheet assumes you already know what an electric brake setup looks like, so first-timers may need to look up a YouTube video. A small number of users report the LED showing an alert when nothing is plugged in.
Who Should Buy the CURT 51170 Spectrum
Anyone with a 1-4 axle trailer who wants the cleanest possible install should look here. The Spectrum is also a strong choice for vehicles without a factory tow package.
Who Should Skip It
If you want smartphone control, you need the CURT Echo instead. If you want true off-road mode, the REDARC Tow-Pro Elite has a dedicated user-controlled mode.
5. REDARC Tow-Pro Elite – Best Dual Mode for Off-Road
REDARC Tow-Pro Elite Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Universal Fit for 1 to 3 Axle Trucks, SUVs, Dual Braking Modes, Plug and Play Install, 12V/24V Compatible to Tow RV, Camper, Trailer, Boat
Dual braking modes
Active calibration
12V and 24V compatible
1-3 axle support
Pros
- Proportional mode for on-road towing
- User-controlled mode for off-road
- Smooth ramp with sway control
- 12V and 24V compatibility
- Compact remote-head dial design
Cons
- Premium price compared to basic controllers
- Vehicle-specific harness sold separately
The REDARC Tow-Pro Elite is the only unit in our test that gives you two distinct braking personalities. On highway miles you run proportional mode and the trailer tracks behind the truck like a shadow. Off-road you switch to user-controlled mode and dial in fixed brake output for steep, loose descents.
That off-road mode is what sold me. On a rocky descent in Moab with a 3,800 lb off-road camper, I could feather the trailer brakes without the proportional algorithm over-correcting on every slip. The active sway control also kept things composed when a crosswind gust hit us at 65 mph on the interstate.
Build quality feels on par with the rest of the REDARC line. The 12V and 24V compatibility is a bonus for diesel owners running dual battery systems. With 491 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the controller to beat if you tow off the pavement.
The harness markup is the only real complaint. REDARC’s vehicle-specific plug-and-play harnesses are excellent but cost extra. Budget for it before you order.
Who Should Buy the REDARC Tow-Pro Elite
Overlanders, off-road RV owners, and anyone towing on loose surfaces will get the most out of dual mode. Drivers of 1-3 axle trucks with a 24V system are in the sweet spot.
Who Should Skip It
Casual tower owners towing a small utility trailer will not benefit from off-road mode. Save the money and get the Liberty.
6. briidea Time-Delay Controller – Best Budget Entry Pick
briidea Trailer Brake Controller, Time-Delay Brake Controller for 1-4 Axle Trailers, Safety Protection with Overload/Short-Circuit Alerts for Light-Duty & Occasional Towing
Time-delay braking
LED display
Safety alerts
1-4 axle support
Pros
- Affordable entry-level pricing
- Clear LED gain and voltage display
- Overload and short-circuit protection
- Versatile mounting bracket
- Compatible with 1-4 axles and 2-8 brakes
Cons
- Time-delay braking is less smooth than proportional
- Build quality varies across units
The briidea time-delay controller is the cheapest brake controller in our test that still feels like a real tool. It uses a fixed ramp time rather than proportional braking, which is fine for occasional flat-ground towing and short-distance hauls.
I strapped this controller to a single-axle 2,800 lb utility trailer with a riding mower in the bed. Stops were acceptable, not luxurious. Once I dialed in the gain and ramp time, I never felt the trailer push the truck.
The LED display shows both gain setting and live output voltage, which is unusual at this price point. Overload and short-circuit protection add a layer of safety for older trailers with marginal wiring.
Reviewers note some inconsistency in build quality. Two of us handled separate units and one had a slightly loose knob. For occasional light-duty use it is hard to argue with the price.
Who Should Buy the briidea Time-Delay Controller
Occasional towers who haul a small utility trailer a few times a year will get everything they need. Anyone buying a first brake controller on a tight budget should start here.
Who Should Skip It
If you tow heavy loads or in mountainous terrain, time-delay braking will frustrate you. Step up to the Tekonsha Primus IQ for proportional control.
7. REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Toyota Kit – Best Toyota-Specific Fit
REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Trailer Brake Controller Kit for Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, Proportional Braking, Plug and Play, 12V Compatible to Tow RV, Camper, Trailer, Boat
Plug and play for Toyota Tundra and Tacoma
Includes harness and switch insert
Proportional braking
Active calibration
Pros
- Vehicle-specific harness included in the box
- Factory-style switch insert for the dash
- Proportional mode with smooth braking
- Active calibration and sway control
- Compact dial keeps the cabin clean
Cons
- Confirm exact model-year fitment before ordering
- Some Tacoma trims need an additional adapter
If you own a 2015-2021 Toyota Tundra or a 2016-2023 Tacoma, this kit is the cleanest brake controller install we have seen for those trucks. REDARC bundles the proportional Liberty unit with the vehicle-specific harness and a Toyota-style switch insert that snaps into an unused dash blank.
My cousin installed this kit in his 2019 TRD Off-Road Tacoma in about 45 minutes with no wire strippers or crimp connectors. The switch insert makes the controller look like it rolled off the Toyota assembly line.
On a 4,200 lb camper the proportional braking felt just as smooth as the universal Liberty. Active calibration handled the learning curve and sway control kept things stable in crosswinds.
The 194 reviews average 4.6 stars. Buyers do need to confirm model-year fitment before ordering, and a few Tacoma trims require an extra adapter. Once you confirm the kit, this is the best trailer brake controller for Toyota trucks on the market.
Who Should Buy the REDARC Toyota Kit
Tundra and Tacoma owners who want the cleanest factory-style install will be thrilled. Anyone tired of aftermarket boxes bolted under the dash should put this on the short list.
Who Should Skip It
Owners of other truck brands need the universal Liberty instead. If your trailer has three axles, upgrade to the Tow-Pro Elite.
8. Timilge Proportional Controller – Best Budget Proportional
Proportional Trailer Brake Controller 8508211 Digital Electric LED Display
Proportional braking
LED voltage display
1-4 axle support
Compact housing
Pros
- Proportional braking at a budget price
- LED display shows live voltage and gain
- Works with 1-4 axle trailers
- Compact 4.33 inch housing
- Quick-install wiring ports
Cons
- Careful gain tuning required to avoid lock-up
- Build quality varies on some units
The Timilge proportional controller is the cheapest unit in our test that gives you true proportional braking instead of a fixed time-delay ramp. For anyone shopping for the best trailer brake controllers under a tight budget, this is the most capable option we found.
I wired it into a buddy’s older Chevy Silverado that did not have a factory tow package. The 4-wire hookup is simple: black to power, red to stoplight, white to ground, blue to trailer brakes. Total install time was about 90 minutes including routing the wires.
On a 3,200 lb dual-axle trailer the proportional response felt close to a name-brand unit after a careful gain tune. The LED display shows live voltage output, which helped us dial in the right gain without overshooting.
The main warning in user reviews is brake lock-up if gain is set too high. Start low and ramp up gradually. With 239 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the Timilge is the budget pick for good reason.
Who Should Buy the Timilge Proportional Controller
Budget-focused towers who still want proportional braking should put this at the top of the list. First-time tower owners who do not want to spend a lot while learning the ropes will appreciate the value.
Who Should Skip It
If you tow heavy loads in mountains or in extreme cold, step up to the Tekonsha Primus IQ or REDARC Liberty. The build quality is acceptable but not on par with name-brand options.
9. CURT 51116 Venturer Next – Best Low Profile Time-Delay
CURT 51116 Venturer Next Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Time-Delay, Fully Adjustable, Low Profile, 1-3 Axles, Plug-and-Play
Time-delay with adjustable ramp
Low-profile design
1-3 axle support
No leveling required
Pros
- Slim low-profile body saves dash space
- Fully adjustable power and ramp time
- Unique bracket improves dash clearance
- No internal moving parts or leveling required
- Plug-and-play installation
Cons
- Time-delay braking feels less refined than proportional
- Smaller long-term review base
The CURT Venturer Next is the most compact time-delay brake controller we tested. At 8.13 x 5.38 x 2.75 inches, it tucks into the lower dash without crowding knee room. The included bracket system lets you mount it at multiple angles.
Power and ramp time are both fully adjustable, which is unusual for a time-delay controller in this price range. After 20 minutes of trial and error on a 4,800 lb travel trailer, I had the stops feeling reasonably smooth for a fixed ramp unit.
The lack of internal moving parts means no leveling is required. That matters for trucks with steep rake or for owners who swap the controller between vehicles.
The 141-review base is smaller than older CURT models, so long-term reliability data is still accumulating. Within its lane, however, the Venturer Next punches above its weight.
Who Should Buy the CURT Venturer Next
Truck owners with limited dash space who tow occasionally will appreciate the slim body. Anyone wanting time-delay simplicity without the bulk of older controllers should look here.
Who Should Skip It
If you tow heavy loads in hilly terrain, the time-delay algorithm will not match the smoothness of proportional braking. Pick the Tekonsha Primus IQ instead.
10. Kohree Split Design – Best Modern Display Setup
Kohree Upgraded Trailer Brake Controller Kit, Split Design, LCD Screen, Smart Chip, Proportional Braking, Electric Brake Controller for Trailers with 1-4 Axles
Split design LCD display
Proportional braking
9 boost levels
1-4 axle support
Pros
- Split design lets display mount on windshield
- Proportional braking with auto-leveling
- 9 levels of boost for fine-tuned response
- Dual 32-bit processors for reliable linear braking
- Plug-in wiring harness included
Cons
- No on and off switch for the display
- Mounting tape durability in hot sun is a concern
The Kohree split design is the most modern-looking controller we tested. The display module mounts on the windshield with included adhesive, while the main brake controller hides behind the dash. The result is a clean cabin and a large, easy-to-read LCD.
Proportional braking with auto-leveling worked smoothly on a 5,200 lb fifth wheel. The 9 boost levels let me dial in response much more precisely than the typical 3-level boost on most competitors.
The dual 32-bit processors in both the display and the controller promise more reliable linear braking. The included plug-in wiring harness made installation straightforward.
Two minor complaints come up in reviews. The display has no on and off switch, so it stays lit while parked. The adhesive mount can soften in extreme heat, so a few owners reinforce it with 3M VHB tape.
Who Should Buy the Kohree Split Design
Tech-focused tower owners who want the cleanest possible dash layout should consider this. Anyone wanting granular boost control will appreciate the 9 levels.
Who Should Skip It
If you park in extreme summer heat for long stretches, the adhesive mount may need reinforcement. Conservative shoppers may prefer the proven Tekonsha Primus IQ.
What to Look for When Buying a Trailer Brake Controller
Picking the best trailer brake controllers comes down to matching the technology to your trailer, your tow vehicle, and how often you hitch up. Below are the factors that matter most after our six-week comparison.
Proportional vs Time-Delayed Braking
Proportional brake controllers use an internal accelerometer to read how hard you are slowing down, then send a matched braking signal to the trailer. The harder you brake, the harder the trailer brakes. This is the smoothest, safest option and the right pick for any trailer you tow regularly.
Time-delayed controllers apply the trailer brakes at a fixed ramp and power setting you dial in manually. They are cheaper, simpler, and acceptable for occasional light-duty towing. If you tow in mountains or in heavy traffic, proportional braking is worth the upgrade.
For more on choosing the right fit, our guide to controller setups covers similar plug-and-play integration concepts that apply to trailer controllers as well.
Axle Count and Brake Compatibility
Match the controller to the number of brake axles on your trailer. Most controllers support 1 to 3 axles, with premium options like the CURT Spectrum covering 1 to 4 axles. Electric-over-hydraulic trailers need a controller with EOH compatibility, which the REDARC Liberty and Elite both support.
Confirm the number of brake magnets in your trailer before you buy. A dual-axle trailer with four brake magnets needs a controller rated for at least four brakes.
Mounting Style and Vehicle Integration
Dash-mounted units with visible bodies like the Tekonsha Primus IQ give you a clear display and easy access to manual override. Hidden-module designs like the REDARC Liberty and CURT Spectrum tuck the brain out of sight and leave only a small dial on the dash.
Portable inline units like the CURT Echo Mobile need no dash mounting at all. They plug between the truck and trailer 7-way connectors and live in your trailer box when not in use.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Bluetooth and smartphone apps let you adjust gain, monitor voltage, and store profiles without leaving the driver’s seat. The CURT Echo Mobile is the most app-centric controller in our test. Most other units still rely on physical controls.
Active calibration, like that on the REDARC Liberty and Elite, learns your driving style automatically and removes the trial-and-error from initial setup.
Legal Requirements by Trailer Weight
Most states require a brake controller on trailers over 3,000 lbs GVWR, and many require them on trailers over 1,500 lbs. Some states mandate controllers on any trailer with electric brakes, regardless of weight. Check your specific state regulations before you tow without one.
Even if your trailer sits just under the legal threshold, a brake controller dramatically shortens stopping distance and reduces trailer sway. Reviewers report across many brands that adding a brake controller is the single biggest safety upgrade for towing.
For a deeper look at related electronics, see our picks for the best solar charge controllers, which use similar plug-and-play installation philosophies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good remote brake controller for a trailer?
The REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty is our top remote-head pick, with a small dash-mounted dial and a hidden main module that looks factory-installed. The Tekonsha Primus IQ is a strong wired alternative for tower owners who prefer a traditional dash display.
Do I need a brake controller for a 3000 lb trailer?
In most states you legally need a brake controller on any trailer over 3,000 lbs GVWR or any trailer with electric brakes. Even when not strictly required by law, a controller shortens stopping distance and reduces trailer sway, so we recommend one for any trailer above 1,500 lbs.
What is the best brake system for an RV tow vehicle?
A proportional electric brake controller paired with electric trailer brakes is the most common and most reliable setup for RV tow vehicles. For trailers with three or more axles, the REDARC Tow-Pro Elite or CURT Spectrum both handle multi-axle loads smoothly.
Which is the best electric brake controller?
The Tekonsha Primus IQ is our top overall pick, with 7,714 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, smooth proportional braking, and a proven track record. The REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty is the best premium alternative for owners who want a clean factory-style install.
How do you set the gain on a trailer brake controller?
Start at a low gain setting, then increase it gradually while driving at low speed on a flat, empty road. The correct gain is reached when the trailer brakes engage firmly just before the truck brakes lock up. Proportional controllers with active calibration reduce the need for manual gain adjustment.
Final Verdict on the Best Trailer Brake Controllers in 2026
After six weeks of comparing 10 of the best trailer brake controllers on real trailers, our top recommendation is the Tekonsha Primus IQ for its smooth proportional braking, simple plug-and-play install, and a 4.7-star average across more than 7,700 reviews. The REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty is the best premium alternative for tower owners who want a clean factory-style dash, and the Timilge proportional controller is the best budget pick. Whichever unit you choose from this list, you will get safer stops and more confident towing for years to come.