Are ceramic pads better than semi-metallic pads?

Ceramic pads are usually quieter and lower dust for daily driving. Semi-metallic pads can offer stronger heat handling and bite, but may create more noise and dust.

Will performance brakes be noisier?

Performance-oriented pads and drilled/slotted kits can be noisier than comfort-focused ceramic pads, especially when cold or paired with aggressive driving.

How should I confirm brake part fitment?

Use the merchant fitment tool, compare the exact part number, and verify trim, drivetrain, rotor diameter, caliper package, and production date before buying.

Hawk Performance review

Hawk Performance HPS Pads

Hawk HPS is a performance-minded pad for drivers who want sharper response than commuter ceramics.

By Miles McQueen, Brake Hero editorUpdated May 14, 2026Reviewed for fitment-safe buying guidance

Best for: Street performance drivers.

Sport padStreet performance

We may earn a commission from retailer links. We focus on use case and fitment, but you should always confirm current price and compatibility before ordering.

Check Hawk HPS fitment

Confirm axle position, trim, rotor size, drivetrain, and merchant fitment data.

Quick take

Choose this if

Street performance drivers.

Buyers who prioritize bite over lowest dust.

Skip if

Comfort-first commuters.

Truck towing buyers who need a full kit.

Confirm first

Expect a more performance-biased comfort profile.

Confirm rotor condition before choosing pads-only.

Key scores

Towing60/100

Daily comfort72/100

Noise66/100

Low dust62/100

Stopping power90/100

Heat resistance86/100

What to know

Good value if the driver will feel and use the added street-performance bite.

Compare with EBC or Hawk pads and EBC Greenstuff/Yellowstuff based on comfort-versus-performance tolerance.

Check before ordering

Pads-only product; rotor condition and pairing matter.

Confirm the exact HPS application for the vehicle and axle.

View Hawk Performance brand page

Compare next

Best Performance Brake Pads Best Semi-Metallic Brake Pads EBC Greenstuff Brake Pads review EBC Yellowstuff Brake Pads review

If this isn’t it

Nearby options if this one is too aggressive, too expensive, or too basic.

EBC Greenstuff Brake Pads

Greenstuff fits drivers who want more bite than commuter ceramics without jumping to an aggressive performance pad.

Read review

EBC Yellowstuff Brake Pads

Yellowstuff is for performance-minded drivers who accept comfort tradeoffs for stronger bite and heat tolerance.

Read review

Common questions

Brake safety and fitment warning

Brake fitment varies by year, make, model, trim, drivetrain, rotor size, axle position, and sometimes production date. Use these recommendations to narrow the field, then confirm exact compatibility before ordering. If you are not comfortable installing brake components, have a qualified mechanic do the work.

Check Hawk HPS fitment