When talking about Porsche, you simply can’t skip the topic of brakes.

Known as the “best brakes in the universe,” Porsche’s braking system is just as crucial as its acceleration performance. Anyone who has ever pressed the brake pedal in a Porsche will immediately understand this. These brakes are not just devices to stop the car; they are true works of art that teach you the joy of controlling deceleration.

Tires of the Boxster GTS

When I first drove the 981 Boxster GTS, I was genuinely amazed by the brilliance of its brakes.

There are plenty of cars with exhilarating acceleration, but Porsche is the only one where deceleration feels just as thrilling. Since many readers have asked whether they should opt for PCCB, I’ll dive deep into Porsche brakes in this article.

Standard Brakes Offer Exceptional Performance

Porsche’s standard brakes use cast iron discs.

Most are internally ventilated, and some specifications offer cross-drilled discs. Four-piston or six-piston calipers are employed to provide high rigidity and excellent responsiveness.

Boxster Black Edition

One hallmark of Porsche brakes is their short pedal travel. The system is designed so that braking force is controlled by pedal pressure within a short stroke. It might feel unfamiliar at first, but once you get used to it, it’s truly remarkable. Just as you control acceleration with the gas pedal, you can precisely control deceleration with the brake pedal. This sensation is unique to Porsche.

While the braking power itself is more than sufficient, Porsche brakes truly shine in their exceptional controllability.

PSCB vs. PCCB: Key Features Explained

PSCB stands for Porsche Surface Coated Brakes, which feature cast iron discs coated with a ceramic layer. The white calipers are distinctive, and brake dust generation is significantly reduced.

Developed by Japan’s Akebono Brake Industry, PSCB is available on models like the Cayenne but not on serious sports cars such as the 718 or 911.

Porsche 911 GT3 equipped with PCCB

Then there’s the famous PCCB—Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes—with their iconic yellow calipers.

PCCB uses ceramic discs that are over 50% lighter than cast iron counterparts. They deliver stable braking performance across a wide temperature range and maintain consistent performance even under repeated heavy braking. The dramatic reduction in unsprung weight allows the suspension to respond more nimbly to road surfaces, greatly enhancing grip, steering response, and high-speed stability.

My first PCCB experience was on the 991 GT3 Touring, and the high-speed stability was beyond expectations. Even within the same GT3 model, the driving feel changes noticeably with or without PCCB. Standard brakes feel slightly smoother at low speeds, but PCCB truly shines as speed increases. The car feels lighter and more agile. Experiencing this performance gap makes the roughly 1.5 million yen price tag (depending on the model) feel justified.

Clearing Up Misconceptions and Choosing the Right Brake

A common concern about PCCB is that it doesn’t work well when cold—but that’s a thing of the past.

At least from the 991 generation onward, PCCB brakes work effectively right from the first stop. Some say the pedal feel takes getting used to, but most drivers adapt after just three brake applications. In fact, Japanese domestic cars’ “grabby” brakes are often harder to get used to.

However, PCCB is not recommended for those who frequently drive on the track.

Extreme conditions are not ideal for ceramic brakes, and replacement costs are very high. But if you mainly drive on public roads and only hit the track once or twice a year, PCCB is absolutely worth choosing. My Spyder RS is equipped with PCCB, and even after 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers, the wheels remain spotless. Once you experience this level of comfort, it’s hard to go back.

In my opinion, PCCB should be reserved for that “special” Porsche.

Whether you plan to keep your Porsche for a long time or own a special edition like an RS or limited model, PCCB is a worthy investment. If you’re opting for a top-tier model, choosing the best brakes is only natural.

The driving quality improvements PCCB offers are well worth the price.

High-speed stability, sharp steering response, and the ability to keep your wheels looking pristine—all these enrich your Porsche ownership experience. Ultimately, it comes down to your budget, but I hope you make a choice you won’t regret. Porsche brakes are not just parts; they are items that elevate your Porsche to the next level.