LiPos › LiPo batteries for RC, drones and FPV
LiPo batteries for RC, drones and FPV
RC cars, planes, helicopters and FPV quads all use LiPos, but their demands differ. This page covers typical choices and the habits that keep you safe at the field.
Typical uses
| Use | Typical choice (a guide only) |
|---|---|
| Small cinewhoops and tiny whoops | 1S to 4S, small capacity |
| 5-inch FPV racing or freestyle | Often 4S to 6S; check your quad's spec |
| RC cars and buggies | 2S to 4S, depending on model and motor |
| Foam planes and park flyers | 2S to 4S, sized to the motor |
| Camera drones | Usually sealed smart packs supplied by the maker |
These are common patterns, not rules. Use the cell count and connector in your model's manual: see ratings explained.
Match the pack to the model
- Cell count must match the electronics.
- Capacity: more mAh means more flight time but more weight.
- C rating: needs to cover peak current.
- Size and shape: it must fit your battery bay and keep the centre of gravity right.
- Connector: use the correct plug. Never twist wires together.
At the field
- Inspect every pack before use: leads, plug, wrapper, swelling.
- Do not charge a hot pack straight after a flight. Let it cool.
- Avoid draining packs flat. Land with some charge left. A cell should never go below 3.0 V (BYU's guide), and many pilots land well above that. Many flight controllers and ESCs can warn you about low voltage.
- Do not charge in the car unattended. Fire services warn against leaving batteries charging unattended anywhere.
- Carry packs in a protective case, not loose with tools or keys.
After a crash
Crash damage is a major cause of pack failures. Check for swelling, dents and heat. If in doubt, retire it. See swelling, damage and fire safety.
Charging at home
Use balance charging and a LiPo bag, away from combustibles and escape routes, with a smoke alarm nearby. Never leave it unattended: read the charging guide.
UK drone rules in brief
The CAA says a drone or model aircraft of 250 g to under 25 kg needs a Flyer ID and an Operator ID. For 100 g to under 250 g, a Flyer ID is required, and an Operator ID is needed if it has a camera and optional if it does not. Under 100 g, a Flyer ID is recommended but not required. No IDs are needed indoors or where the aircraft cannot escape, such as inside a closed net. The CAA does not recognise overseas registrations. Rules change, and these are not the whole of the law on where you may fly, so read the CAA's pages before you fly.
Spare packs and weight
Buy a few packs of the same type and rotate them so each gets similar use. Mixing old and new packs in the same flight or in a series or parallel arrangement is a common source of problems. Keep a record of which pack is which.
Travelling to a flying site
By car, keep packs out of hot boots and direct sun. By air, see flying with lithium batteries. At home, store packs as in storage voltage.
This is general information, not a substitute for the instructions that came with your battery and charger. If your manufacturer's advice differs, follow the manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions
What cell count do I need for my quad?
Whatever your quad's electronics are designed for. Check the manual or the motor and ESC spec.
Do I need a Flyer ID for a drone?
For 250 g and over, yes. For 100 g to under 250 g, a Flyer ID is required too. Check the CAA table.
How low can I drain a LiPo?
BYU's guide says not below 3.0 V per cell. Land well before that.
Is it safe to charge in the car?
Fire services advise against leaving batteries charging unattended anywhere. Do not leave it unattended.