Both disc brakes and drum brakes are widely used on overhead and gantry cranes, and “better” depends on the duty profile and environment. Disc brakes generally offer superior heat dissipation and more consistent torque at higher speeds, which makes them attractive for high-duty hoisting, frequent stops, and applications where stable braking performance is critical. They can also be easier to inspect and maintain in some layouts.
Drum brakes (including electro-hydraulic block brakes) are extremely common in crane travel and hoist systems because they are rugged, proven, cost-effective, and tolerant of harsh industrial conditions. They often integrate well with electro-hydraulic thrusters and standard crane architectures.
Selection should be driven by required torque, stopping energy, duty cycle (stops/hour), shaft speed, space constraints, and exposure to dust, moisture, or corrosion. The best crane brake is the one correctly sized for both torque and thermal load.