After researching manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback, we compared the top nitrous cams for small block Chevy (SBC) engines. Our evaluation focuses on lobe separation, lift, duration, and real-world durability to help you choose the right cam for your nitrous setup. Whether you are building a street strip car or a dedicated drag racer, these cams are designed to maximize power when the juice is flowing.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Comp Cams Nitrous HP 12-000-9 Top Pick Hydraulic roller, 236/242 duration, .600/.600 lift, 112 LSA |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lunati Voodoo 30100703 Runner Up Hydraulic roller, 230/236 duration, .585/.585 lift, 110 LSA |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Bullet Racing Cams Nitrous 306S Best for High Horsepower Solid roller, 260/268 duration, .700/.700 lift, 114 LSA |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Howards Cams 110945-12 Best Budget Hydraulic Hydraulic flat tappet, 224/234 duration, .470/.470 lift, 112 LSA |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Crower 00271 Best for Street/Strip Hydraulic roller, 224/230 duration, .550/.550 lift, 112 LSA |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Edelbrock 2105 Best for Beginners Hydraulic flat tappet, 214/224 duration, .442/.442 lift, 112 LSA |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Summit Racing SUM-1782 Budget Flat Tappet Hydraulic flat tappet, 218/228 duration, .458/.458 lift, 110 LSA |
7.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Comp Cams Nitrous HP 12-000-9: Top Pick
The Comp Cams Nitrous HP 12-000-9 is a hydraulic roller cam tailored for nitrous use. With a 236/242 duration and .600/.600 lift on a 112 LSA, it offers a great balance of power and drivability. Based on owner feedback, this cam delivers consistent performance gains when used with a proper nitrous system. The 112 LSA helps reduce cylinder pressure spikes common with nitrous, improving safety.
However, this cam does require upgraded valve springs to prevent valve float at high RPM. It is not ideal for stock engines or those without supporting modifications like a good intake and headers. Users with mild builds should consider a less aggressive profile.
- Designed specifically for nitrous applications with a wide 112 LSA
- High lift and aggressive lobe profile for significant power gains
- Compatible with stock valve train with recommended spring upgrade
Pros: Excellent power gains with nitrous; Proven reliability in many builds
Cons: Requires upgraded valve springs for safe operation
2. Lunati Voodoo 30100703: Runner Up
The Lunati Voodoo 30100703 is a popular choice for nitrous SBC builds. Its Voodoo lobe design offers aggressive ramp rates that improve volumetric efficiency. With a 230/236 duration and .585 lift on a 110 LSA, it produces a distinct idle and strong mid-range power. Owner reports indicate it works well with up to 200 shot of nitrous.
The 110 LSA can cause a rough idle that may not suit daily drivers. Also, the fast ramp rates demand quality valve springs and careful assembly. This cam is best for enthusiasts who prioritize performance over street manners.
- Voodoo lobe design for fast ramp rates and increased area under curve
- 110 LSA provides a choppy idle and strong mid-range
- Matched with Lunati springs and retainers recommended
Pros: Strong mid-range torque; Good value for the performance
Cons: Idle can be rough for street use
3. Bullet Racing Cams Nitrous 306S: Best for High Horsepower
The Bullet Racing Cams Nitrous 306S is a solid roller cam built for serious power. With 260/268 duration and .700 lift on a 114 LSA, it is intended for dedicated race cars. The wide lobe separation angle helps manage cylinder pressure when running large nitrous shots. Based on spec sheets, this cam can support over 800 horsepower with the right components.
However, it is not suitable for street use due to a rough idle and the need for periodic valve lash adjustments. It also requires solid roller lifters, pushrods, and heavy-duty valve springs. This cam is only for experienced builders chasing maximum power.
- Solid roller design for extreme RPM and power
- Wide 114 LSA for nitrous safety and reduced cylinder pressure
- Requires solid roller lifters and frequent lash adjustments
Pros: Capable of 800+ horsepower with proper support; Wide LSA enhances nitrous tolerance
Cons: Not street friendly; requires maintenance
4. Howards Cams 110945-12: Best Budget Hydraulic
The Howards Cams 110945-12 is a hydraulic flat tappet cam that offers a budget-friendly entry into nitrous. With 224/234 duration and .470 lift on a 112 LSA, it provides a mild performance increase without breaking the bank. Owner feedback suggests it works well with small nitrous shots (up to 150 hp) and can use stock valve springs in some applications.
However, its flat tappet design limits RPM and overall power compared to roller cams. It is not ideal for high-horsepower builds or those seeking maximum performance. This cam is best for budget-minded builders with mild nitrous setups.
- Affordable flat tappet design for budget builds
- 112 LSA helps with nitrous compatibility
- Works with stock valve springs in many cases
Pros: Very affordable; Easy installation for beginners
Cons: Limited power potential compared to roller cams
5. Crower 00271: Best for Street/Strip
The Crower 00271 is a hydraulic roller cam that aims to blend streetability with nitrous performance. With 224/230 duration and .550 lift on a 112 LSA, it offers a noticeable power gain while maintaining a decent idle. Based on owner reports, it works well with up to a 200 shot of nitrous and retains vacuum for power brakes.
However, its milder profile means it leaves some power on the table compared to more aggressive cams. It may not satisfy those seeking maximum strip performance. This cam is best for enthusiasts who want a fun street car that can handle occasional nitrous use.
- Designed for dual-purpose street and strip use
- Moderate lift and duration for good drivability
- 112 LSA balances power and nitrous safety
Pros: Good street manners; Durable construction
Cons: Not as aggressive as dedicated nitrous cams
6. Edelbrock 2105: Best for Beginners
The Edelbrock 2105 is a mild hydraulic flat tappet cam designed for beginners. With 214/224 duration and .442 lift on a 112 LSA, it offers a slight performance improvement and can handle small nitrous shots (up to 100 hp). Owner feedback indicates it is easy to install and does not require major modifications.
However, its conservative specs limit power gains, and it is not suitable for large nitrous systems. This cam is best for those new to nitrous who want a safe, easy upgrade. Experienced users will quickly outgrow it.
- Mild cam suitable for first-time nitrous users
- 112 LSA provides some nitrous compatibility
- Works with stock components in many engines
Pros: Simple installation; Low cost
Cons: Minimal power gain with nitrous; Not for serious racing
7. Summit Racing SUM-1782: Budget Flat Tappet
The Summit Racing SUM-1782 is a budget-friendly flat tappet cam that offers a mild upgrade for nitrous. With 218/228 duration and .458 lift on a 110 LSA, it produces a noticeable idle and some mid-range power. Owner reviews note it works with small nitrous kits but caution about the 110 LSA potentially raising cylinder pressure.
This cam is not recommended for aggressive nitrous use or high-RPM operation. It is best for budget builds with low shot nitrous. Serious racers should look to roller cams for better performance and safety.
- Inexpensive flat tappet cam for mild nitrous
- 110 LSA provides a slightly choppy idle
- Works with stock valve train with care
Pros: Very low price; Decent idle sound
Cons: Limited nitrous capacity; LSA may increase cylinder pressure risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What LSA is best for a nitrous cam?
A wider lobe separation angle (LSA) of 112 to 114 degrees is generally recommended for nitrous cams. The wider LSA helps reduce cylinder pressure spikes caused by nitrous, improving reliability and safety. It also provides a smoother idle and better vacuum for accessories.
Can I use a nitrous cam without nitrous?
Yes, you can use a nitrous cam without nitrous, but it may not perform optimally. Nitrous cams typically have wider LSA and more overlap, which can reduce low-end torque and cause a rougher idle when running naturally aspirated. They are designed to work best with nitrous.
Do I need to upgrade valve springs for a nitrous cam?
Most aggressive nitrous cams require upgraded valve springs to prevent valve float at high RPM. Even mild cams benefit from stronger springs to handle the increased cylinder pressure. Always follow the cam manufacturer’s recommendations.
What is the difference between hydraulic and solid roller cams for nitrous?
Hydraulic roller cams are easier to maintain and quieter, suitable for street/strip use. Solid roller cams offer higher RPM potential and more aggressive profiles but require periodic valve lash adjustments and are best for dedicated race cars.
How much horsepower can I expect from a nitrous cam?
Horsepower gains depend on the entire engine setup. A well-matched nitrous cam can add 30-100+ horsepower over a stock cam when used with a nitrous system. The cam alone does not guarantee power; it must be paired with proper intake, exhaust, and fuel system.
Our Verdict
After research and comparison, the Comp Cams Nitrous HP 12-000-9 earns our top pick for its proven performance, reliability, and optimal 112 LSA for nitrous safety. The Lunati Voodoo 30100703 is a strong runner-up with excellent mid-range power and value. Choose based on your power goals and street/strip balance.
