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.

PowerStop review

PowerStop Z26 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Pads

A performance-leaning pad-only path for drivers who want more bite without buying a full kit.

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

Best for: Performance-car owners who need pads only.

Street performanceCarbon-fiber ceramic

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 Z26 pad fitment

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

Quick take

Choose this if

Performance-car owners who need pads only.

Drivers comparing Z26 pads against EBC, EBC or Hawk, and Hawk.

Skip if

Quietest possible commuting.

Truck towing as the main use case.

Confirm first

Confirm the exact pad set and included hardware before checkout.

Key scores

Towing66/100

Daily comfort78/100

Noise72/100

Low dust70/100

Stopping power88/100

Heat resistance86/100

What to know

Good value when you want stronger street feel but do not need rotors.

Compare against EBC Yellowstuff, Hawk HPS, and EBC or Hawk pads.

Check before ordering

Pads-only product; confirm exact year, make, model, trim, axle position, and hardware.

Inspect rotor condition before choosing pads-only.

View PowerStop brand page

Compare next

Best Performance Brake Pads EBC Yellowstuff Brake Pads review Hawk Performance HPS Pads review

If this isn’t it

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

EBC Yellowstuff Brake Pads

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

Read review

Hawk Performance HPS Pads

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

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 Z26 pad fitment