10 Best Ceramic Brake Pads of 2023: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs

by Joshua Thomas

The ceramic brake pad is an affordable aftermarket brake pad that is heavy-duty, durable and easy to install. In fact, this type of brake pad is quickly replacing the traditional semi-metallic brake pad mostly because of its lower price point and dust-free braking that keeps your wheels clean.

One of its best features is that the ceramic brake pad is highly resistant to heat. Therefore, your brakes will always perform at top performance even after hours of driving.

If you are fresh on the market for the best ceramic brake pad for the money, we've got you covered!

Below we give you an overview of some popular models. Let's see if they belong in your vehicle or not!



Summary of 10 Best Ceramic Brake Pads

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1083 Ceramic Brake Pad

1. Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1083 (Universal Fit & Easy to Install)

  • Easy to install by beginners
  • Universal fit for all vehicles with a rotor and brake pad system
  • 35% quieter when compared to other models
  • Resists high temperatures well
Bosch BC905 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Brake Pad

2. Bosch BC905 QuietCast (Excellent Price to Performance Ratio)

  • Good price and great performance
  • Superior build construction
  • Uses patented technologies to make it last longer
  • Quiet in operation
ACDelco 17D1367CH Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set

3. ACDelco 17D1367CH (Thick & Limits Vibrations)

  • Thick brake pads. Durable and long-lasting
  • Does not produce noise or vibrations
  • Easy to install by beginners
Akebono ACT787 ProACT Ceramic Brake Pad

4. Akebono ACT787 ProACT (Efficient & Long-lasting)

  • Durable brake pad that last a long time
  • Does not produce any dust
  • It will not cause wear and tear on your rotors
ACDelco 14D785CH Ceramic Brake Pad With Hardware

5. ACDelco 14D785CH (Affordable & Performing)

  • Good price for the performance
  • Does not require a cure time
  • Produces little to no vibrations and noise
Wagner QC537 Rear Ceramic Brake Pad

6. Wagner QC537 (Thick & Durable Rear Brake Pad)

  • Thick and durable
  • Affordable and good value
  • 35% quieter and 50% more stop power
Bosch BC1095 QuietCast Ceramic Rear Brake Pad

7. Bosch BC1095 QuietCast (Does Not Contain Copper)

  • Does not contain any copper
  • Affordable and value for money
  • Quiet in operation
KFE 914-104 Premium Ceramic Front Brake Pad Set

8. KFE 914-104 (Easy to Install by Beginners)

  • Easy to install
  • More stopping power than a conventional brake pad
  • Does not create dust
Bosch BC1114 Premium Rear Ceramic Brake Pad

9. Bosch BC1114 (High-quality & Great Stopping Power)

  • Thick and decent stopping power
  • Quality and durable brake pad
  • Quiet in operation
Wagner ZD1293 Ceramic Brake Pad

10. Wagner ZD1293 (Superior Stopping Power)

  • One of the best stopping power on the market
  • Comes as a complete installation kit
  • Uniform wear and tear for better efficiency

Top 10 Best Ceramic Brake Pad Reviews

Editors' Picks for Top Ceramic Brake Pads of 2023
Editors' Picks for Top Ceramic Brake Pads of 2023

1. Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1083 - Universal Fit and Easy to Install

Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1083 Ceramic Brake Pad
Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1083 Ceramic Brake Pad

The Wagner ThermoQuiet is a pair of front ceramic brake pads that is very easy to install and should universally fit almost any type of vehicle. This model is delivered as a complete kit that makes installation easy by even beginners.

One of the main features of this model is that the manufacturer claims that it is 35% quieter when compared to a traditional brake pad. There is some truth to it as ceramic brake pads are generally extremely quiet.

Best of all, you will also experience 15% more stopping power using this brake pad. Even if it is not as heavy-duty as a semi-metallic brake pad, this is still more than enough for most people. Moreover, since these made from ceramic, it is quite durable and will offer good resistance to high temperatures.

The only caveats we note is that the front pads a bit long so it may be difficult to fit in the calipers of some brake systems. Additionally, the back of the plate seems to be black color painted which may start chipping away. Nothing that will affect performance, though.

Pros

  • Easy to install by even beginners
  • The manufacturer claims that it is 35% quieter when compared to other brake pads
  • Good resistance to high temperatures
  • Should technically fit any type of vehicle that has a rotor and a brake pad system

Cons

  • The front pads are a bit long
  • The paint on the back plate may start chipping over time

2. Bosch BC905 QuietCast - Excellent Price to Performance Ratio

Bosch BC905 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Brake Pad
Bosch BC905 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Brake Pad

The Bosch BC905 is rated as one of the best ceramic brake pads on the market because it has an excellent price to performance ratio. Indeed, much of the performance that you will get from this brake pad is due to its high-quality build construction.

Moreover, due to the efficient design, it is quiet and will not vibrate even if you press hard on the brake pedal. Additionally, this unit is 2025 copper-free law approved which means that it does not have copper or other harmful metals in it.

In addition, the design of this ceramic brake pad will ensure that it protects not only the brake pad from wear and tear but extend the life of the router as well.

All in all, if you're looking for a pair of rear ceramic brake pads, the Bosch BC905 is an excellent model to consider because of its superior build construction and excellent price to performance ratio.

The only real disadvantage we see with this Bosch brake pad is that it produces a little bit more dust than the competition. Additionally, the sensors are quite fragile so you need to be careful when installing it as they can break easily.

Pros

  • Excellent price to performance ratio
  • Superior build construction. 2025 copper-free law approved
  • Uses a special technology to enhance its lifespan
  • Quiet operation and low vibrations

Cons

  • You need to be careful when installing this brake pad as the sensors can easily break
  • Produces more dust when compared to similarly priced brake pads

3. ACDelco 17D1367CH - Thick and Limits Vibrations

ACDelco 17D1367CH Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
ACDelco 17D1367CH Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set

ACDelco is one of the best ceramic brake pad brands on the market. This model is equally high quality and meant to be installed on the front of almost any type of vehicle that uses a brake pad. Moreover, the ceramic on this brake pad is quite thick which does a great job of helping to limit vibrations.

Additionally, you will not hear any squeaking noises with this brake pad as it has an excellent design like premium shims, slots, and chamfers that are intended to limit those kinds of noises. The build construction of this ceramic brake pad is also very good which guarantees that it is durable and long-lasting.

Furthermore, the backing plate is designed in such a way that it will move efficiently within the caliper assembly which will help promote the durability and longevity of both the brake pad as well as the vehicle's rotors.

The only problem with this high-quality ceramic brake pad is its price. But if money is not an issue, it is an excellent choice to consider.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting brake pad
  • Efficient design helps limit vibrations and noises
  • Will fit a wide range of vehicles that use a brake pad set
  • Easy to install by even beginners

Cons

  • The price could have been a little bit more competitive

4. Akebono ACT787 ProACT - Efficient and Long-lasting

Akebono ACT787 ProACT Ceramic Brake Pad
Akebono ACT787 ProACT Ceramic Brake Pad

The Akebono ACT787 is an excellent upgrade for those looking to replace their factory brake pad with an aftermarket ceramic brake pad. Indeed, this model has been designed in such a way that it is extremely efficient and will last a long time, even if you press hard on the brake pedal.

Moreover, since it is made from ceramic, it does not produce a lot of dust which will leave your wheels clean even if you drive for long hours. This is a big problem with semi-metallic brake pads, and you will not have this issue with this Akebono brake pad.

One of the best features of this brake pad remains its highly durable surface and decent thickness.

Indeed, this thickness will ensure that this ceramic brake pad will last longer than your factory brake pad. This means that you get more value for your money with this purchase.

In addition, it has a standard design, so it should easily replace any brake pad in your vehicle, whether it is ceramic or semi-metallic. However, you still need to be careful because this model is not universal, so you need to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.

Pros

  • Thick and durable ceramic lining
  • Does not produce dust. Your wheels will remain clean
  • It will not cause excessive wear and tear on your rotors

Cons

  • Not universally compatible with every vehicle

5. ACDelco 14D785CH - Affordable and Performing

ACDelco 14D785CH Ceramic Brake Pad With Hardware
ACDelco 14D785CH Ceramic Brake Pad With Hardware

ACDelco generally makes premium and expensive brake pads. However, this ACDelco brake pad is quite affordable and surprisingly, it does not sacrifice build construction or performance.

The shims, slots, and chamfers of this ceramic brake pad are made in such a way that it will help limit vibrations and not produce any noise even if you generally press hard on your brake paddle.

Moreover, the ceramic lining is heavy-duty and will not wear easily. Bottom line, you get a longer-lasting brake pad if you go with this model.

One of the best things about this brake pad is that it does not need any cure-in time, unlike other models. This means that once you install this brake pad on your vehicle, it will work at 100% performance all the time.

Just make sure that it is compatible with your vehicle because this particular model is quite choosy on the type of vehicle that it can be installed on.

Pros

  • Good price to performance
  • Does not need any cure-in time
  • Efficient design helps limit vibrations and noise
  • Delivered as a complete kit. Easy to install by even beginners

Cons

  • Fits a limited number of vehicles

6. Wagner QC537 - Thick and Durable Rear Ceramic Brake Pad

Wagner QC537 Rear Ceramic Brake Pad
Wagner QC537 Rear Ceramic Brake Pad

One of the most distinguishing features of the Wagner QC537 is the thick ceramic lining that makes it very durable and long-lasting.

This model has the same high-quality builds construction as the Wagner model we have covered above in our ceramic brake pad review. However, this model is intended for the rear of the vehicle while the other was the front.

Moreover, this pad has a universal design so it will have no problem replacing your factory brake pad.

Additionally, the manufacturer claims that is a brake that is 35% quieter and has fewer vibrations due to a more efficient design. It also has 15% more stopping power as well. Since this brake pad does not create any dust, it will also leave your wheels clean even if you drive for long hours.

All in all, this is a good ceramic brake pad especially if you pair it with the ThermoQuiet QC1083 which is a front ceramic brake pad by the same manufacturer.

Note that you need to firsthand clean your rotors before the installation of this brake pad or else it will create unnecessary dust.

Pros

  • Thick ceramic lining. Durable and long-lasting
  • Affordable. Value for money
  • Easy to install by even beginners
  • 35% quieter and 50% more stopping power

Cons

  • Your rotors need to be clean when installing this brake pad or it will create dust

7. Bosch BC1095 QuietCast - Does Not Contain Copper

Bosch BC1095 QuietCast Ceramic Rear Brake Pad
Bosch BC1095 QuietCast Ceramic Rear Brake Pad

The Bosch BC1095 is an updated version that is 2025 copper free legislation law approved. Indeed, this ceramic brake pad does not contain any copper and will not create dust even if like to press hard on the brake pedal.

Moreover, the price of this rear ceramic brake pad is very affordable considering the quality of the build construction. In order to help diminish vibrations and noise, it has a rubber core multi-layer shim that also provides this rate pad with more strength and enhances durability.

In addition, due to the standard design, it will replace the rear brake pad of almost any type of vehicle on the market. Best of all, it is very beginner friendly and easy to install. This model will also come as a complete kit which includes some synthetic lubricant as well.

But, you need to ensure firsthand that this unit is compatible with your vehicle because this is not a universal brake pad.

Pros

  • Affordable value for money
  • Comes as a complete installation kit. Also includes synthetic lubricant
  • 2025 copper-free legislation law approved
  • Quiet and no vibrations during operation

Cons

  • Not universally compatible with all vehicles

8. KFE 914-104 - Easy to Install by Beginners

KFE 914-104 Premium Ceramic Front Brake Pad Set
KFE 914-104 Premium Ceramic Front Brake Pad Set

This KFE is another affordable ceramic brake pad that is intended for the front of your vehicle. This model has been designed in such a way that it will easily replace the factory brake pad of any vehicle with is. Indeed, it has perfect fitment so it is incredibly easy to install by beginners.

Moreover, the ceramic lining is very durable which will make this brake pad long-lasting. Even if you have the tendency of pressing hard on the brake pedal, it will not create dust which will help keep your wheels clean.

In addition, there are multiple technologies working in this brake pad that will ensure that it has a stronger stopping power as well as does not emit noise or vibrations during operation. Just be wary that you need to first calibrate this brake pad properly to prevent it from making any noise.

Pros

  • Easy to install by even beginners
  • Has more stopping power than a traditional brake pad
  • Does not create dust. Will keep your wheels clean
  • No vibration or noise due to a dual rubber wolverine shim

Cons

  • They need to be calibrated or else may produce a squealing noise

9. Bosch BC1114 - High-quality and Great Stopping Power

Bosch BC1114 Premium Rear Ceramic Brake Pad
Bosch BC1114 Premium Rear Ceramic Brake Pad

Bosch is one of the best ceramic brake pad brands on the market. The Bosch BC1114 is a clear example of that as one of the highest quality rear brake pads you can buy. It is durable, does not vibrate and has an excellent stopping power.

Best of all, the price tag of this brake pad is still affordable for the quality that you are buying. This unit is also 2025 copper-free legislation law approved, so it is safe to use. Moreover, the thick ceramic lining of this brake pad makes it very durable and long-lasting. It can definitely be used as a heavy-duty brake pad.

Moreover, due to the shape of this brake pad, it should be virtually compatible with any vehicle on the market. However, it is still a good idea to inquire with the car manufacturer if this model is compatible or not.

The only caveat we see with this Bosch brake pad is that the price could have been a little bit more competitive.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Quiet and no vibrations
  • Thick ceramic lining provides this brake pad with more stopping power

Cons

  • The price could have been a little bit more competitive

10. Wagner ZD1293 - Superior Stopping Power

Wagner ZD1293 Ceramic Brake Pad
Wagner ZD1293 Ceramic Brake Pad

The Wagner ZD1293 concentrates on one thing and that is stopping power. Indeed, this model boasts to be one of the best ceramic brake pads for the money when it comes to stopping power.

It is able to do this by having a thick ceramic lining when compared to a traditional front brake pad as well as a more efficient design that will help limit noise and vibrations.

Moreover, the design ensures that the wear and tear of the ceramic lining is uniform throughout the brake pad. This will ensure that the brake pad is still performing even if the lining has thinned.

Best of all, you get this top-rated ceramic brake pad as a full installation kit as it comes with all installation accessories. But, if the environment is important to you, keep in mind that the Wagner ZD1293 is not 2025 copper-free law compliant.

Pros

  • Thick ceramic lining produces more stopping power
  • Comes as a complete kit with all installation accessories
  • Uniform wear and tear on the brake pad ensures better performance for a longer period

Cons

  • Not 2025 copper-free law compliant

Ceramic vs. Semi-metallic Brake Pad

There are basically 2 types of brake pads on the market. The ceramic brake pad and the semi-metallic brake pad.

Ceramic Brake Pad: The ceramic brake pad has a thin layer of ceramic coated on top of the brake pad that applies friction when it presses over the rotors which then allow you to stop your vehicle.

One of the best things about the ceramic brake pad is that it is very affordable and has an acceptable stopping power.

Additionally, this type of brake pad is known for not producing dust, so it helps in keeping your wheels clean even if you drive for an extended period of time.

Advantages:

  • Quiet. Does not produce a high noise level
  • Does not produce any dust. Keep your wheels clean
  • Very affordable due to a cheaper manufacturing process
  • Excellent resistance to high temperatures

Disadvantages:

  • Stopping power is not as strong as a semi-metallic brake pad

Semi-metallic Brake Pad: The semi-metallic brake pad is the oldest type of brake pad on the market.

As its name suggests, it has a metallic layer on top of the brake pad which is usually 30% copper and a mixture of other metal alloys that provide the friction for the stopping power.

The main advantage of the semi-metallic brake pad is that it is a high-performance brake pad that has a very strong stopping power. On the downside, it produces a lot of noise, unlike the ceramic brake pad.

Advantages:

  • High stopping power due to better performance
  • Not affected by high temperatures. Dissipates heat away from the brake system
  • Less pressure needs to be applied on the brake pedal

Disadvantages:

  • More expensive than other brake pads
  • Produces dust when used for an extended period of time
  • Noisy when compared ceramic brake pads

How to Buy the Best Ceramic Brake Pads

How To Buy A Ceramic Brake Pad
How To Buy A Ceramic Brake Pad

1. Compatibility

First and foremost, you need to consider the compatibility of the brake pad. Not all ceramic brake pads are compatible with every vehicle out there. If you are unsure if the brake pad will fit your vehicle, you can either check with the manufacturer or make some research online to see if your vehicle is compatible with a particular brake pad model.

However, in general cases, the ceramic brake pad is a universal brake pad that is compatible with most brake systems that have a rotor. This includes vehicles like cars, SUVs and even some trucks.

Read More: 10 Best Brake Rotors

2. Thickness

The durability of the ceramic brake pad is mostly because of its thickness. Indeed, the thicker the ceramic brake pad, the more durable and long-lasting it will be as it will take more time to grind a thicker ceramic layer.

A thicker ceramic brake pad also means that you can press on the brake pedal harder without damaging the brake pad. In addition, you will experience fewer vibrations both at the wheels and on the brake pedal when using a thicker ceramic brake pad since it has a greater capacity in absorbing shocks and vibrations.

3. Easy to install

The ceramic brake pad is very easy to install, at least as long as you have the necessary tools to dismount your wheels and replace a brake pad.

Moreover, some manufacturers ship their brake pads as a kit which includes all necessary accessories that will allow you to quickly and easily replace your original brake pad with an OEM or aftermarket model. This can be beneficial for you if you have never replaced a brake pad before.

4. Price

One of the best things about the ceramic brake pad is definitely its price as it is cheaper than a semi-metallic brake pad.

However, prices can quickly get out of hand especially if you are trying to buy a top-rated ceramic brake pad. Therefore, we recommend that you set a budget when purchasing the brake pad and stick to it.

5. Noise levels

Even if the ceramic brake pad is not very loud due to the technology and material it uses, it is still important to ensure that the manufacturer states how loud it is in its feature list.

Look for words like "quiet" or "low noise technology" to be sure. Additionally, a low noise level also generally translates into lower vibrations and superior brake effectiveness.

6. Rotor life

Every time you press on the brake pedal, the ceramic brake pad presses against the rotors of your vehicle and this is what creates the stopping power to stop the vehicle. Evidently, there is a lot of wear and tear that goes on both on the ceramic brake pad as well as on the rotors.

Make sure that the ceramic brake pad is optimized in such a way that it is rotor-friendly as this will help enhance the durability and lifespan of both the ceramic brake pad as well as the rotor in general.

Read More: 12 Best Brake Fluids

Buy on Walmart

Bosch BC905 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Disc Brake Pad For: Infiniti: - Walmart Link

Wagner QuickStop ZD813 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - Walmart Link

Power Stop Z26-1405 Z26 Extreme Performance Carbon-Ceramic Front Brake Pad - Walmart Link

Wagner QuickStop ZD1160 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - Walmart Link

Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1324 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - Walmart Link

ACDelco Silver 14D369CH Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set with Hardware - Walmart Link

Bendix CFC1327 Premium Copper Free Ceramic Brake Pad (with Installation Hardware Front) - Walmart Link

KFE KFE905-104 Ultra Quiet Advanced Premium Ceramic Brake Pad REAR Set Compatible With: - Walmart Link

Bosch BC1451 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set For: Acura TSX; Honda Accord, - Walmart Link

ACDelco Silver 14D785CH Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Bosch BC905 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Disc Brake Pad For: Infiniti: - eBay Link

Wagner QuickStop ZD813 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - eBay Link

Power Stop Z26-1405 Z26 Extreme Performance Carbon-Ceramic Front Brake Pad - eBay Link

Wagner QuickStop ZD1160 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - eBay Link

Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1324 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - eBay Link

ACDelco Silver 14D369CH Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set with Hardware - eBay Link

Bendix CFC1327 Premium Copper Free Ceramic Brake Pad (with Installation Hardware Front) - eBay Link

KFE KFE905-104 Ultra Quiet Advanced Premium Ceramic Brake Pad REAR Set Compatible With: - eBay Link

Bosch BC1451 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set For: Acura TSX; Honda Accord, - eBay Link

ACDelco Silver 14D785CH Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set - eBay Link

Conclusion for Ceramic Brake Pad Buyers

As we have seen, the ceramic brake pad is a heavy-duty brake pad that does not produce dust and helps keep your wheels clean. Furthermore, you can have a heavy foot on the brake pedal when using the ceramic brake pad as it is very durable.

Best, this type of brake pad is very economical and has an excellent tolerance to high temperatures. If you are looking forward to changing the brake pads in your vehicle for an aftermarket unit, the ceramic brake pad is an excellent choice.

Finally, if you have read our ceramic brake pad review above and still unsure of which model to go with, we recommend that you read the review one more time as you may have missed something.

Ceramic Brake Pad Sources

  1. Ceramic vs. Semi-Metallic Brake Pads - Sears Auto Center
  2. Ceramic vs. Metallic Brake Pads: What's the Difference? - Bridgestone

About Joshua Thomas

Joshua Thomas just simply loves cars and willing to work on them whenever there's chance... sometimes for free.

He started CarCareTotal back in 2017 from the advices of total strangers who witnessed his amazing skills in car repairs here and there.

His goal with this creation is to help car owners better learn how to maintain and repair their cars; as such, the site would cover alot of areas: troubleshooting, product recommendations, tips & tricks.

Joshua received Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at San Diego State University.

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