When it comes to upgrading your turbocharger, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a ball bearing turbo and a journal bearing turbo. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages, and understanding the key differences can help you select the best option for your performance needs, whether you’re driving a Subaru WRX FA20/FA24 or a Honda Civic Type R FK8/FL5.

What is a Journal Bearing Turbo?

A journal bearing turbo relies on a simple hydrodynamic system where the turbo shaft rotates within a layer of oil. It’s a design that’s been used in turbochargers for decades due to its simplicity and reliability.

Advantages of Journal Bearing Turbos:

• Cost-Effective: Journal bearing turbos are generally less expensive to produce and purchase. If you're looking for a budget-friendly upgrade, this is often the first choice.
• Proven Reliability: They’ve been a mainstay in the industry for years, offering steady performance and durability in various applications.
• Maintenance: With proper oiling and regular care, journal bearing turbos can last a long time and deliver solid performance.

Disadvantages of Journal Bearing Turbos:

• Slower Spool Time: One of the major drawbacks is slower spool times compared to ball bearing turbos. This means it can take longer for the turbo to hit its full boost, which might not suit those looking for quicker throttle response.
• More Friction: Since the shaft rides on a film of oil, there's naturally more friction involved. This can slightly reduce overall efficiency and performance.

What is a Ball Bearing Turbo?

A ball bearing turbo uses a set of ball bearings to support the turbo shaft, reducing friction and allowing for quicker and smoother rotation. This results in faster spool times and better performance, especially for high-horsepower builds.

Advantages of Ball Bearing Turbos:

• Faster Spool Time: Thanks to reduced friction, ball bearing turbos spool up much quicker than journal bearing counterparts. This is a significant advantage for performance drivers looking for instant throttle response and reduced turbo lag.
• Increased Efficiency: Less friction also means the turbo can operate more efficiently, potentially increasing both power output and longevity.
• Better Durability Under Extreme Conditions: Ball bearing turbos are better suited to high-performance applications where the turbo experiences extreme heat and stress. The design allows for greater stability at higher RPMs and in more demanding environments.

Disadvantages of Ball Bearing Turbos:

• Higher Cost: The added performance benefits come at a price. Ball bearing turbos are generally more expensive than journal bearing versions, which might not suit all budgets.
• Replacement and Repairs: While they offer better performance, ball bearing turbos are more difficult to repair. If something goes wrong, you may need to replace the entire unit, which can be costly.

Which Turbo is Right for You?

If you’re building a high-performance street car or a race car, a ball bearing turbo is the obvious choice. The faster spool times and increased efficiency will give you the responsiveness and power you're after. However, if you’re working with a tighter budget and prefer a more time-tested, cost-effective solution, a journal bearing turbo may be all you need, especially for a daily driver or a more moderate build.

Performance Turbo Upgrades for Subaru WRX FA20/FA24 and Honda Civic Type R FK8/FL5

No matter what bearing type you choose, upgrading your turbo is one of the best ways to increase power and improve your vehicle’s performance. If you’re looking to take your Subaru WRX FA20/FA24 or Honda Civic Type R FK8/FL5 to the next level, PLM offers a range of performance turbo upgrades that deliver unmatched power and reliability. Check out our PLM turbo selection for your next big performance leap!