Upgrading the camshaft in your Chevy 350 can transform its powerband and driving character. But with countless grinds and profiles available, choosing the right cam requires careful research. We evaluated the top contenders using manufacturer specifications, published performance data, and aggregated owner feedback from forums and verified purchasers. This guide breaks down the strengths and trade-offs of seven real camshafts to help you match a cam to your specific engine build and driving goals.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 268 Best Overall for Street Performance Duration: 268/268, Lift: .454/.454, LSA: 110 |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Lunati Voodoo 262 Best for Low-End Torque Duration: 262/268, Lift: .468/.489, LSA: 110 |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Crane Cams 114681 Best Budget Cam Duration: 272/272, Lift: .454/.454, LSA: 112 |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Howards Cams 110985 Best for High-Performance Street/Strip Duration: 280/288, Lift: .480/.490, LSA: 108 |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Edelbrock Performer Plus 2102 Best for Easy Installation and Tuning Duration: 272/272, Lift: .454/.454, LSA: 110 |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Summit Racing SUM-1103 Best for Value Street Performance Duration: 274/274, Lift: .465/.465, LSA: 110 |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Comp Cams 12-300-4 Best for High-RPM Racing Duration: 306/306, Lift: .520/.540, LSA: 106 |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 268: Best Overall for Street Performance
In our evaluation, the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 268 stands out as the most versatile cam for a typical 350 street engine. Based on manufacturer specs and owner feedback, it delivers a noticeable power increase without sacrificing drivability. The 268 duration and 110 LSA provide a broad torque curve that suits daily driving, towing, and light performance use. Many owners report a mild lope that sounds aggressive but remains civil with a stock torque converter.
However, this cam is not designed for all-out strip use. If your goal is to exceed 6000 rpm regularly or run a high-stall converter, a more aggressive grind would be better. Skip this cam if you need a choppy idle for show or plan to build a dedicated race engine.
- Balanced power increase from idle to 5500 rpm with noticeable mid-range torque.
- Smooth idle quality suitable for daily drivers with automatic transmissions.
- Extensive owner feedback confirms consistent quality and easy break-in.
Pros: Excellent mid-range torque for street driving.; Works with stock converter and mild stall.
Cons: Not ideal for high-rpm racing builds above 6000 rpm.
2. Lunati Voodoo 262: Best for Low-End Torque
For builds prioritizing low-end torque, the Lunati Voodoo 262 is a strong contender. Our research shows its asymmetrical lobe design produces excellent cylinder filling at low rpm, making it ideal for heavy vehicles like trucks or vans. Owner reports confirm it pulls strongly from idle and pairs well with stock torque converters, improving drivability in stop-and-go traffic.
However, this cam runs out of steam above 5000 rpm, so it is not suited for high-rpm performance builds. If you want a cam that screams to 6500 rpm, look elsewhere. Also, the aggressive ramp rates can increase valvetrain noise, which some owners find noticeable.
- Designed to maximize torque from idle to 5000 rpm for heavy vehicles.
- Fast ramp rates improve throttle response without excessive overlap.
- Aggressive lobe design tested on street-driven engines for reliability.
Pros: Great for trucks and SUVs needing low-end grunt.; Works well with stock or mild stall converters.
Cons: Limited top-end power above 5000 rpm.
3. Crane Cams 114681: Best Budget Cam
The Crane Cams 114681 is our top budget pick based on value analysis and owner satisfaction. It provides a solid performance increase over stock without breaking the bank. The 272 duration and 112 LSA yield a smooth idle and good vacuum, making it compatible with power brakes and accessories. Many budget builders report reliable daily driving with this cam.
However, the modest .454 lift means it won’t produce the top-end power of more aggressive grinds. If you are building a high-horsepower engine, this cam will hold you back. It is best for stock rebuilds or mild upgrades where cost is the primary concern.
- Affordable option with proven performance for budget 350 builds.
- Mild idle and broad power band from 1500 to 5500 rpm.
- Includes cam and lifters for a complete swap kit.
Pros: Very good value for money.; Reliable and easy to install with included lifters.
Cons: Lower lift limits peak power potential.
4. Howards Cams 110985: Best for High-Performance Street/Strip
For enthusiasts seeking a cam that delivers strong top-end power while remaining streetable, the Howards Cams 110985 is a standout. Our research shows it pulls hard from 2500 to 6500 rpm, making it ideal for weekend drag racing or spirited driving. The 108 LSA creates a choppy idle that sounds aggressive, and owner feedback confirms it can run on the street with proper tuning.
However, this cam demands upgraded valve springs and pushrods to avoid valve float. It also has reduced vacuum, which may require a vacuum pump for power brakes. Skip this if you want a smooth idle or plan to use a stock converter.
- Aggressive profile for 2500-6500 rpm powerband with strong top-end.
- Dual-spring compatible design supports higher rpm stability.
- Owner feedback indicates consistent performance on street/strip cars.
Pros: Excellent high-rpm horsepower gains.; Works well with 2500+ stall converters.
Cons: Requires upgraded valvetrain components for reliability.
5. Edelbrock Performer Plus 2102: Best for Easy Installation and Tuning
The Edelbrock Performer Plus 2102 is our pick for those who want a hassle-free cam upgrade. It is designed to work seamlessly with Edelbrock’s Performer intake, and owner feedback highlights its simple installation and good idle quality. The 110 LSA provides ample vacuum for power brakes and air conditioning, making it a favorite for daily drivers.
However, its mild specs limit peak power. If you are looking for a cam that will win at the drag strip, this is not it. It is best for stock-replacement builds or mild upgrades where ease of use is the priority.
- Matched cam and lifter kit designed for Performer intake manifolds.
- Smooth idle and excellent manifold vacuum for street accessories.
- Straightforward swap with no need for major valvetrain upgrades.
Pros: Very easy to install and tune.; Great for beginners or first-time cam swappers.
Cons: Modest power gains compared to more aggressive cams.
6. Summit Racing SUM-1103: Best for Value Street Performance
The Summit Racing SUM-1103 is a budget-friendly cam that offers a modest performance boost for the price. Owner feedback indicates it works well for basic street builds, providing a slight increase in torque and horsepower. It is a popular choice for first-time builders on a tight budget.
However, we found mixed reviews regarding durability and consistency. Some owners reported premature wear or incorrect grind specs. This cam is best for low-stress applications where cost is the primary concern, but we recommend careful break-in and inspection.
- Affordable cam with a mild upgrade over stock for street use.
- Broad power band from 1500 to 5500 rpm.
- Includes cam and lifters at a low price point.
Pros: Very low cost for a complete kit.; Decent power improvement for the money.
Cons: Inconsistent quality control reported by some owners.; Not suitable for high-performance builds.
7. Comp Cams 12-300-4: Best for High-RPM Racing
The Comp Cams 12-300-4 is a race-only cam designed for maximum top-end power. Our evaluation shows it will produce impressive peak horsepower numbers above 4000 rpm, but it sacrifices all low-end torque and drivability. It requires a high-stall converter, upgraded valve springs, and often a solid roller conversion.
This cam is not for daily drivers or even weekend street cars. Skip it unless you are building a dedicated race engine with a high-rpm focus. The cost of supporting modifications and reduced engine life make it a poor choice for most 350 owners.
- Extreme duration and lift for high-rpm power above 4000 rpm.
- Requires extensive valvetrain upgrades and high stall converter.
- Not intended for street use; race-only application.
Pros: Produces very high peak horsepower at high rpm.; Aggressive sound and idle.
Cons: Unusable on the street; poor low-rpm torque and drivability.; Expensive supporting mods needed (springs, pushrods, lifters).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cam for a stock 350 engine?
For a stock 350 with factory compression and intake, a mild cam like the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 268 or Edelbrock Performer Plus 2102 is ideal. These cams provide a noticeable power increase without requiring major modifications. They maintain good idle quality and manifold vacuum, making them compatible with stock torque converters and accessories.
Do I need to replace valve springs with a new cam?
Yes, it is highly recommended to install new valve springs matched to the cam’s lift and duration. Many cam manufacturers specify spring requirements. Using stock springs can lead to valve float, reduced performance, or engine damage. Always follow the cam manufacturer’s spring recommendations.
What is the difference between a 110 LSA and 112 LSA cam?
Lobe separation angle (LSA) affects the powerband and idle quality. A 110 LSA cam typically has a more aggressive idle, higher peak power, and a narrower torque curve, while a 112 LSA cam offers smoother idle, better vacuum, and a broader powerband. For street use, 110-112 LSA is common; 106-108 LSA is more race-oriented.
Can I use a cam with a stock torque converter?
Yes, if the cam is mild enough. Cams with duration under 270 degrees and LSA of 110 or higher usually work with stock converters. More aggressive cams require a higher stall converter to prevent stalling and poor drivability. Check the cam’s powerband and converter recommendations.
How important is cam break-in?
Cam break-in is critical for flat-tappet cams to ensure proper lifter rotation and prevent lobe wear. Follow the manufacturer’s break-in procedure, which typically involves running the engine at 2000-2500 rpm for 20-30 minutes with proper oil. Failure to break in correctly can destroy the cam.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top camshafts for the Chevy 350, our top pick is the Comp Cams Xtreme Energy 268 for its excellent balance of performance and drivability. For those seeking more top-end power, the Howards Cams 110985 is a strong runner-up, but it requires supporting upgrades. Choose based on your engine’s intended use and budget.
