Shimano MT200 vs MT400 vs MT500 Brakes: Which One Is Right for You?
Share
Shimano’s MT-series brakes — MT200, MT400, and MT500 — are some of the most common hydraulic disc brakes found on modern bikes. From commuter and hybrid bikes to trail hardtails and light e-MTBs, these brakes are everywhere for one simple reason: they’re reliable, affordable, and easy to live with.
While these brakes look similar on the surface, they deliver very different performance on the trail or road — especially once you factor in brake pad choice.
In this guide, we’ll break down the real-world differences between Shimano MT200, MT400, and MT500 brakes, explain which riders each system suits best, and show why upgrading your brake pads is the fastest and most cost-effective way to improve braking performance.
Upgrade Your Shimano MT Brakes
Most Shimano MT brakes are supplied with basic stock pads designed to meet a price point. Upgrading your brake pads delivers stronger bite, better heat control, quieter braking, and longer pad life — without replacing your brakes.
Find Brake Pads for Shimano MT Brakes✓ Guaranteed fit • ✓ Rider-tested • ✓ No guesswork
🔍 Shimano MT200 vs MT400 vs MT500: Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Braking Feel | Stock Pad Type | Upgrade Path |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MT200 | Commuting / Light MTB | Moderate | B01S Resin | Shop B-Type Pad Upgrades → |
| MT400 | Trail / Hybrid / All-Round | Stronger & more consistent | B01S Resin | Shop B-Type Pad Upgrades → |
| MT500 | Aggressive Trail / e-MTB | High power, fast bite | E01S / E03S | MT500 uses a different pad shape |
🚴 Shimano MT200: Simple, Reliable, Budget-Friendly
The Shimano MT200 is an entry-level hydraulic brake commonly found on commuter bikes, hybrids, and light trail builds. It’s easy to maintain and a huge upgrade from mechanical disc brakes — but it’s also where riders most often feel the limits of stock braking performance.
Common MT200 Rider Feedback
- Braking feels weak on longer descents
- Fade under repeated braking
- Noise or glazing from stock resin pads
How Most MT200 Riders Upgrade
- Daily riding & commuting: Quieter, smoother compound
- Light trail use: Stronger all-round performance pads
- Hills or heavier riders: Higher-durability compound
Shop MT200 Brake Pad Upgrades →
⛰ Shimano MT400: The True All-Rounder
The Shimano MT400 builds on the MT200 with a stiffer caliper body and improved heat management. It’s a popular choice for riders who mix commuting, trail riding, and longer weekend rides where consistency matters.
Why MT400 Feels Better Than MT200
- More consistent lever feel
- Better braking control on longer descents
- Improved durability under load
Recommended Pad Choices for MT400
- Quiet & low maintenance: Organic performance pads
- Trail & all-round riding: Semi-metallic compound
- Wet conditions or harder use: High-performance compound
Shop MT400 Brake Pad Upgrades →
🔥 Shimano MT500: A Step Toward Performance Braking
The Shimano MT500 sits above MT200 and MT400 and introduces Servo Wave lever technology for faster pad engagement and higher peak braking power. It’s aimed at aggressive trail riders and e-MTB users.
Important: MT500 uses a different pad shape (E01S / E03S) than MT200 and MT400, so pad compatibility is not shared.
🧩 What Brake Pads Do Shimano MT200 & MT400 Use?
- MT200 & MT400: Shimano B-Type pad shape (B01S / B03S)
- Compatible with organic, semi-metallic, ceramic, and performance compounds
Choosing the right compound depends on how and where you ride. If you’re unsure, our Brake Pad Compound Comparison explains the differences clearly.
🌍 Why Choose Gorilla Brakes Pads?
- REACH-compliant compounds (no harmful materials)
- 100% recyclable, plastic-free packaging
- Brake Pad Recycling Program — send used pads back to us
- Tested by real riders in commuting, trail, and e-MTB conditions
🛒 Find the Right Pads for Your Shimano MT Brakes
If you’re running Shimano MT200 or MT400 brakes, upgrading to a better pad compound is the single biggest improvement you can make to your braking.
Shop Shimano B-Type Brake Pads (B01S / B03S)