Gear 20 vs 40 Teeth: eitech Module 1 Comparison
By eitech Metallbaukasten | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare eitech 20-tooth and 40-tooth module 1 gears with hexagon socket fittings. Learn speed vs torque trade-offs and which gear suits your build.
Quick answer
Choose the 20-tooth gear for faster output speed, or the 40-tooth gear for higher torque. Both are module 1 gears with hexagon socket fittings, so they interchange in the same eitech builds.
Why tooth count matters in module 1 gears
In eitech construction sets, gears with the same module (module 1) have the same tooth pitch, meaning they mesh correctly with each other. The tooth count directly determines the gear ratio: a 40-tooth gear driving a 20-tooth gear doubles the output speed, while the reverse halves it and increases torque.
Both the 20-tooth and 40-tooth gears feature a hexagon socket fitting, which means they mount on axles with a hexagonal cross-section. This provides a secure, non-slip connection—important for transmitting power without slipping.
Speed vs. torque: the core trade-off
The 20-tooth gear is the smaller diameter option. When used as the driven gear, it spins faster but with less turning force. This suits mechanisms where quick movement matters more than heavy lifting.
The 40-tooth gear, being larger, provides more leverage. When used as the driving gear, it increases torque at the output, making it ideal for lifting or pushing heavier loads, but at the cost of speed.
Because both gears share the same module and fitting, you can swap them in the same build to change the performance without redesigning the whole mechanism.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Speed-focused builds: Use the 20-tooth gear as the driven gear to double the output speed compared to a 40-tooth driven gear. Check that your motor can handle the higher speed without overheating.
- Torque-focused builds: Use the 40-tooth gear as the driven gear to increase torque, ideal for lifting or pushing heavy parts. Ensure the axle and structure can withstand the extra force.
- Mixing gears: Combine both gears in a two-stage reduction to achieve a 4:1 ratio, balancing speed and torque. Plan your gear train layout to avoid interference between gear teeth.
Product facts
- Gear 20 teeth module 1 hexagon socket: 20-tooth gear, module 1, hexagon socket fitting (Standard variant, item 01803) This smaller gear gives you faster output speed, ideal for high-speed rotations in compact builds.
Gear 20 teeth module 1 hexagon socket - Gear 40 teeth module 1 hexagon socket: 40-tooth gear, module 1, hexagon socket fitting (Standard variant, SKU 01806) The larger gear increases torque, making it better for lifting or driving heavier mechanisms.
Gear 40 teeth module 1 hexagon socket
Which gear fits your build?
Best for
- Builds that need faster rotation, such as fans or wheels
- Compact mechanisms where space is limited
Not for
- Heavy lifting or high-torque applications—consider the 40-tooth gear instead
- Precision timing applications where exact ratios are critical—check your gear train calculations
