Clipper motors

Question
I've gotten too many random answers in my two years as a groomer to make sense out of it, so i was wondering if i could get it cleared up for me. What are the differences, pros and cons, between carbon brush motors, rotary motors, magnetic rotary motors, ect? Thanks for any help you can give.

Answer
I am not an expert in clipper motors, but I tried to get an answer for you.  I always suggest you choose clippers based on criteria that is important to you.  I have groomed a lot of years and have some joint wear and tear so I purchase clippers primarily based on weight and how they feel to hold.  I then look at Strokes Per Minute because I want the fastest motor I can comfortably handle.  I also look at the ease in getting repair work done.  I use a local repair shop and made the mistake of purchasing an "off brand" clipper.  When it broke down I had a much longer wait for the repair while parts were special ordered instead of being in stock and quickly available.

I didn't realize that clippers had anything other than carbon brush motors until your post came through.  Then I went online to research this for myself.  I called the Andis Clipper Corporation to ask about the advantage of a rotary motor.  I was told that there is no difference in basic speed.  The advantage of a rotary motor is in it's durability.  It has more torque  and is more able to go through a thick and heavy coat without breaking down.  A carbon brush motor is more likely to overheat or burn up when subjected to tough grooming demands.

I would suggest you take the different brands and models of clippers you are considering and call each manufacturer's consumer line.  Ask your questions from the technicians there.  They should be able to give you the most informed knowledge based on what they know of the product development.  

Clippers are a big investment and so you do need to get as much as possible for what you are willing to spend.  Define your personal criteria and then look at each clipper from that perspective. I don't do a lot of heavy duty shave downs so the extra durability may not be worth paying extra for to me. I've always liked my carbon brush motors.  Most of my clippers last 5-10 years without needing major motor overhaul.  I do the necessary maintenance and check and change brushes regularly.  I also work a keeping my blades well oiled and maintained to lesson the burden on the clipper motor.

I hope this helps to at least partially answer your question.  Every groomer has their own preferences based on their needs, so I would look to the manufacturer for more of your technical answers. Then find out why different groomers choose and use the type of clipper they do.  If they will let you try out a different clipper then take it for a test drive.  Clippers, scissors and blades are very important to your job.  So do the research and purchase the equipment that will work best for you.