The speed controller itself doesn't determine how fast or powerful the plane will be.

Rather it merely supplies the current needed by the motor and prop combo.

If the ESC is too small for the prop/motor, you'll burn it out quickly.

There is no set rule of thumb for all of this.

You basically make choices based upon how you want your plane to fly and the resources you want to expend.


There are many on-line calculators that help you with your configuration.

Google for "RC Prop calculator" and "RC Power" calculator...

Electrifly has a nice on-line interactive configuration guide as well but only for their hardware.

Remember to use the manufacturer's ALL UP FLYING WEIGHT multiplied by an additional 15-20% to get your actual flying weight.