Estimate output speed and torque, then verify whether a specific gearbox supports the exact ratio and operating point your design needs.
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The calculator describes the ideal ratio relationship. A catalogue part still needs to match the requested reduction, motor curve, load, and duty cycle.
A family’s ratio range does not mean every value in that range is offered. For example, the published Maxon GPX 10 standard configurations list 4:1, 16:1, 64:1, 256:1, and 1024:1 across one to five stages; that catalogue does not list a 10:1 option.
The Maxon GPX 10 catalogue lists maximum efficiency of 90% for one stage and 81% for two. Efficiency varies with design and operating conditions, so use the chosen gearbox’s data rather than a universal value.
A ratio calculation does not check continuous or intermittent torque, input speed, shaft loads, backlash, or temperature. Those limits belong to an exact gearhead and motor combination.
These manufacturer examples show why “10 mm” or “planetary” alone cannot establish a 10:1 configuration or its rating. They are references, not specifications for every OEM gearbox.
| Family and source | Published ratio information | Published limits / performance | What to verify for 10:1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maxon GPX 10, standard version | 4:1, 16:1, 64:1, 256:1, and 1024:1; one to five stages. | Max. continuous input speed: 12,000 rpm. Max. continuous torque: 0.01 Nm (one stage), 0.03 Nm (two). Max. efficiency: 90% / 81%; average no-load backlash: 1.5° / 1.8%. | The listed standard configurations do not include 10:1. Check current availability and any custom configuration directly with the supplier. |
| FAULHABER 10/1 family | The family page publishes a 4:1–4096:1 range; it does not establish that every ratio is available. The listed standard variants include 4:1, 16:1, 64:1, 256:1, 1024:1, and 4096:1; 10:1 is not listed. | The published continuous torque range is 5–100 mNm. Exact speed, efficiency, backlash, and load values depend on the selected configuration. | Confirm the exact ratio and the selected part’s datasheet limits; do not infer them from family range endpoints. |
Evidence checked 30 September 2026. Specifications can change; use the current document for the exact part number.
Planetary gearheads use coaxial input and output and distribute load across planet gears. Spur gear trains use meshing gears on parallel axes. Choose from the required shaft layout, envelope, exact ratio options, and rated data—not the name of the gear type alone.
| Design check | Planetary | Spur train |
|---|---|---|
| Shaft layout | Typically coaxial | Typically parallel axes |
| Selection focus | Stage count, ratio, backlash, and output bearing | Gear stages, center distances, ratio, and output support |
| Compare by | Exact part ratings and tests for the intended load, speed, temperature, and duty | |
Mechanical arrangement is general; performance is configuration-specific. See the manufacturer explanation of planetary gearheads.
Output speed = input speed ÷ 10
Estimated output torque = input torque × 10 × efficiency
Worked estimate (illustrative inputs)
At 10,000 rpm, 20 gf·cm input torque, and an assumed 85% efficiency: estimated output is 1,000 rpm and 170 gf·cm. The corresponding power estimate is about 2.05 W in and 1.75 W out. These are calculator results, not measured gearbox performance.
The estimate assumes an exact 10:1 ratio and simultaneous input speed and torque values. It does not calculate a motor torque-speed curve, gearbox thermal limit, bearing load, or service life. Gearhead efficiency changes with configuration and operating conditions; enter a value supported by the selected datasheet when available. FAULHABER notes that load, temperature, and number of stages affect planetary gearbox efficiency.
Source: FAULHABER planetary gearhead guide.
| Bring this requirement | Why it changes the choice | What to request |
|---|---|---|
| Exact ratio and tolerance | Nominal ratio availability and actual tooth-count ratio vary by design. | Available ratios and absolute ratio for the part |
| Loaded speed and torque | Motor output changes with load; the gearbox has its own continuous and peak limits. | Motor curve plus gearbox torque, speed, and efficiency data |
| Duty and environment | Temperature, starts, reversals, and run time affect heating and life. | Duty cycle, ambient temperature, and test conditions |
| Output mechanics | Shaft geometry, bearing loads, and backlash affect integration and accuracy. | Radial/axial load with lever arm, shaft, flange, and backlash needs |
Speed-focused
If the design needs fast output, enter the motor’s speed at the expected load. Then verify that the chosen ratio and gearbox input-speed limit are compatible.
Torque-focused
If load torque drives the design, compare the estimate with the gearbox’s continuous rating, motor heating, and the application’s start-up peaks.
Position-focused
If the output must stop accurately or hold a load, request backlash data and a power-off backdrive test for the actual motor-gearbox assembly.
Record load torque, target RPM, ratio window, and duty cycle before comparing a motor and gearbox.
Send the target operating point and mechanical interfaces for an OEM feasibility review. We can help identify which specifications still need confirmation.
