Once you go brushless, it's hard to go back.

But that said, we have brushed motors in everything from hair dryers to vacuum cleaners.

The brushes do wear out, but it takes longer than most people think.

However brushless setups do cost more, and a newbie is often shocked by the cost of things in this hobby....

Look at how many are unwilling to spend $400.00+ on an RTF Trainer... and instead opt for something that doesn't last very long or is unsuitable for a beginner....

You're right though, brushless setups are more efficient.