Upgrading the camshaft in a stock 350 small block is one of the most effective ways to increase horsepower and torque. But choosing the right cam requires balancing lift, duration, and lobe separation with your engine’s stock components like compression ratio, intake, and exhaust. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry standards for valvetrain stability, and aggregated owner feedback to evaluate seven popular camshafts. Our comparison focuses on real-world performance, durability, and ease of installation for a stock 350 without major modifications.
We evaluated each cam based on published specs, common owner experiences, and compatibility with stock valve springs and pistons. Not every cam is right for every build. We highlight the strengths and limitations of each pick so you can choose the best cam for your goals, whether that’s a lopey idle, strong mid-range, or reliable daily driving.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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COMP Cams Xtreme Energy 268H Best Overall for Stock 350 268/268 duration, .454/.454 lift, 110 LSA |
9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Edelbrock Performer-Plus 2102 Best for Low-End Torque 204/214 duration, .420/.443 lift, 112 LSA |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lunati Voodoo 60101 Best for Mid-Range Power 262/268 duration, .468/.489 lift, 110 LSA |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Howards Cams 110951-08 Best Value Hydraulic Roller 274/280 duration, .525/.525 lift, 110 LSA |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Summit Racing SUM-1103 Best Budget Flat Tappet 262/272 duration, .440/.465 lift, 110 LSA |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Crower 00231 Best for High-RPM Applications 280/288 duration, .480/.480 lift, 108 LSA |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Chevrolet Performance 14097395 Best OEM Replacement 194/204 duration, .390/.410 lift, 112 LSA |
7.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. COMP Cams Xtreme Energy 268H: Best Overall for Stock 350
The COMP Cams Xtreme Energy 268H is a hydraulic flat tappet cam designed specifically for small block Chevys with stock or mild modifications. In our evaluation, it delivers a strong torque curve from 1500 to 4500 RPM, making it ideal for street-driven stock 350s. Owner feedback consistently reports noticeable seat-of-the-pants gains without sacrificing drivability. The 110-degree lobe separation angle produces a mild lope at idle that sounds aggressive but remains smooth enough for power brakes and accessories.
However, this cam reaches its limit above 5500 RPM, so it is not suited for high-rpm racing. It also requires proper break-in with zinc-rich oil to avoid lobe wear. If you plan to rev beyond 6000 RPM or use aftermarket cylinder heads, consider a roller cam instead. The 268H is best for enthusiasts who want a reliable street cam with a classic muscle car idle.
- Excellent mid-range torque and horsepower gains on stock 350
- Works with stock valve springs and pushrods in most applications
- Mild idle with a subtle lope, good for daily driving
Pros: Broad power band from idle to 5500 RPM; Simple installation, no major modifications needed
Cons: Top-end power drops off above 5500 RPM
2. Edelbrock Performer-Plus 2102: Best for Low-End Torque
The Edelbrock Performer-Plus 2102 is a mild cam matched to the Edelbrock Performer intake, but it works well on a stock 350 with any manifold. We researched its specs and found it prioritizes low-end torque and drivability over peak horsepower. Owner feedback highlights its compatibility with stock ECM and emissions equipment on later models, making it a solid choice for daily drivers. The 112 LSA provides a smooth idle and strong vacuum for accessories.
This cam will not produce a aggressive lope or high-rpm power. If you want a cam that screams at 6500 RPM, look elsewhere. The Performer-Plus is best for those who want a trouble-free upgrade that enhances low-speed response without changing valve springs or pushrods. It’s a conservative pick but very reliable.
- Designed for stock 350 with factory intake and exhaust manifolds
- Smooth idle, excellent vacuum for power brakes
- Improves torque from 1500 to 4500 RPM
Pros: Great for towing and heavy vehicles; Easy on valvetrain components
Cons: Limited top-end power, not for racing
3. Lunati Voodoo 60101: Best for Mid-Range Power
The Lunati Voodoo 60101 uses a modern lobe design that fills the cylinder faster, improving torque and horsepower in the mid-range. In our evaluation of owner feedback, many users reported gains of 30-40 horsepower on a stock 350 with headers and a carburetor. The cam has a distinct lope that sounds great but may cause low vacuum, affecting power brakes. It is a hydraulic flat tappet cam that requires careful break-in.
One real weakness is that the aggressive lobes can accelerate wear on stock valve springs, so we recommend upgrading to Lunati’s recommended springs. Also, the idle quality may not suit everyone. If you have a stock converter and highway gears, the Voodoo may feel a bit lazy below 2000 RPM. Skip this if you want a smooth idle or plan to keep stock valve springs.
- Aggressive lobe profile for strong mid-range pull
- Works with stock valve springs but may require checking coil bind
- Noticeable lope at idle
Pros: Significant horsepower gain from 2500 to 5500 RPM; Good value for performance increase
Cons: Valve spring upgrade recommended for reliability; Idle may be too rough for some daily drivers
4. Howards Cams 110951-08: Best Value Hydraulic Roller
The Howards Cams 110951-08 is a hydraulic roller cam that offers the benefits of a roller profile without the high cost of a full conversion kit. We compared its specs to similar roller cams and found it delivers a strong power curve with a choppy idle. Owner feedback praises its durability and performance, but notes that installation is more involved than a flat tappet cam. You will need retro-fit roller lifters, a timing set, and possibly new pushrods.
The real limitation is that this cam is not a simple swap. The stock 350 block does not have provisions for roller lifters, so you must use a spider and dogbone setup or a link-bar lifter system. This adds cost and complexity. If you are comfortable with that, the Howards cam provides great value. Skip it if you want a straightforward weekend install.
- Hydraulic roller design for reduced friction and faster spool
- Requires retrofit roller lifters and pushrods
- Strong power from 2000 to 6000 RPM
Pros: Roller cam reliability and performance; Excellent value for a roller cam package
Cons: Requires additional parts and machine work for installation; Not a direct drop-in for stock 350
5. Summit Racing SUM-1103: Best Budget Flat Tappet
The Summit Racing SUM-1103 is a budget-friendly hydraulic flat tappet cam that offers a mild performance bump for stock 350s. In our research, it is one of the most popular entry-level cams due to its low cost and ease of installation. Owner feedback indicates it provides a noticeable improvement in throttle response and a slightly choppy idle, but peak horsepower gains are modest. It is a good choice for a first cam swap.
However, durability can be a concern. Some owners report lobe wear issues, especially if break-in procedures are not followed precisely. The cam also does not include a timing chain or lifters, so factor in those costs. If you are on a tight budget and want a simple upgrade, this cam works. But if you plan to push the engine hard, invest in a higher-quality cam.
- Affordable upgrade for stock 350
- Mild performance increase with a slight lope
- Works with stock valve springs and pushrods
Pros: Very low price point; Simple installation, no modifications needed
Cons: Modest power gains compared to pricier cams; Quality control can be inconsistent
6. Crower 00231: Best for High-RPM Applications
The Crower 00231 is a serious performance cam designed for high-rpm power. Our evaluation of its specs shows it has a 108 LSA and aggressive duration that shifts the power band above 4000 RPM. This cam is not intended for a stock 350 used on the street. It requires aftermarket valve springs, hardened pushrods, and likely a higher stall converter. Owner feedback confirms that it makes impressive power at the track but is frustrating to drive around town.
The real weakness is its incompatibility with stock components and poor low-end performance. If your 350 has stock compression, intake, and exhaust, this cam will likely disappoint. It is best for dedicated race cars with supporting modifications. Skip this cam if you want a streetable upgrade or plan to keep your engine stock.
- High duration and lift for top-end power
- Requires upgraded valve springs and retainers
- Rough idle, low vacuum, not for street use
Pros: Strong power above 4000 RPM; Good for race or strip use
Cons: Poor low-end torque and drivability; Not compatible with stock components
7. Chevrolet Performance 14097395: Best OEM Replacement
The Chevrolet Performance 14097395 is a genuine GM replacement camshaft for small block 350 engines. It is the same cam that came in many stock trucks and passenger cars. We researched its specs and found it offers no real performance improvement. It is designed for reliability and emissions compliance. Owner feedback is positive for those doing a restoration or wanting a trouble-free daily driver, but disappointing for those seeking power.
This cam will not make your 350 sound aggressive or perform noticeably better. If you want a cam that adds horsepower and a lope, this is not the one. It is best for owners who need a direct OEM replacement and value simplicity over performance. Skip this if you are looking for an upgrade.
- Factory replacement cam for stock 350
- Smooth idle, excellent vacuum, emissions legal
- Works with all stock components
Pros: Perfect for a stock restoration; Reliable and easy to install
Cons: Minimal performance gain over stock; Does not produce a performance sound
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cam for a stock 350 without changing springs?
The best cam for a stock 350 without changing valve springs is typically a mild flat tappet cam with lift under .470 inches. The COMP Cams Xtreme Energy 268H and Edelbrock Performer-Plus 2102 both work with stock springs in most applications. However, always check coil bind clearance and spring pressure, as some stock springs may be weak or have high mileage. For peace of mind, many owners upgrade to new stock replacement springs anyway.
Will a bigger cam damage my stock 350?
A too-aggressive cam can cause issues like valve float, piston-to-valve interference, and poor idle quality. Cams with high lift and duration may require fly-cutting pistons, aftermarket valve springs, and a higher stall converter. For a truly stock 350 (stock pistons, heads, intake, and exhaust), we recommend staying with a cam that has lift under .480 inches and duration under 270 degrees. The risk of damage increases with cams like the Crower 00231.
Do I need to upgrade the torque converter with a new cam?
It depends on the cam’s power band. Mild cams like the Edelbrock Performer-Plus work well with a stock torque converter. Cams with a later power band, such as the Lunati Voodoo 60101, may feel sluggish off-idle with a stock converter. For cams with duration over 270 degrees, a stall converter of 2000-2500 RPM is often recommended. Check the cam manufacturer’s recommendations.
What is the difference between hydraulic flat tappet and roller cams?
Hydraulic flat tappet cams are traditional, less expensive, and require zinc-rich oil for break-in. Roller cams reduce friction, allow more aggressive profiles, and are more reliable but cost more and often require retrofit lifters for a stock 350 block. For a stock 350 on a budget, a flat tappet cam is fine. For higher performance and durability, a roller cam is better but more complex to install.
Can I use a cam with a 110 LSA on a stock 350?
Yes, a 110 LSA (lobe separation angle) is common for performance cams and gives a choppy idle and good mid-range power. However, it reduces vacuum, which can affect power brakes and headlights. On a stock 350 with low compression, a 110 LSA may cause a rough idle and poor low-end torque. Cams with 112-114 LSA are more street-friendly. Test your vacuum after installation to ensure accessories work.
Our Verdict
After researching specs and owner feedback, our top pick is the COMP Cams Xtreme Energy 268H. It offers the best balance of performance, drivability, and compatibility with a stock 350. The Edelbroch Performer-Plus 2102 is a close runner-up for those who prioritize low-end torque and a smooth idle. Both provide reliable gains without requiring major modifications. For a budget option, the Summit Racing SUM-1103 is acceptable if you follow break-in carefully.
