What Battery Should I Use in My RC Car?

An RC car is an exciting toy to have, but it can only be as much fun as the battery that powers it. Choosing the right one is essential to getting the most out of your vehicle. Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are becoming increasingly popular among RC car enthusiasts, but they are not the only option.

NiCad and NiMh Batteries

Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMh) batteries are the two most common types used in RC cars. They are relatively inexpensive, have a long shelf life, and are easy to find in many hobby stores.

However, they do have some drawbacks. These batteries do not deliver a lot of power for their size and weight, so they won’t last as long as other types of batteries. Additionally, these types of batteries tend to suffer from memory effect, which means that after multiple charge/discharge cycles their capacity will start to decrease.

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Batteries

Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are becoming increasingly popular among RC car enthusiasts due to their high energy density and light weight. These batteries can store more energy than NiCad or NiMh batteries for the same size and weight, meaning they can power your vehicle longer. Additionally, LiPo batteries don’t suffer from memory effect like other battery types do so they don’t need to be fully discharged before recharging.

Conclusion

When choosing a battery for your RC car, it is important to consider both cost and performance. For those on a budget, NiCad or NiMh batteries may be a good choice since they are relatively inexpensive and easy to find in most hobby stores. For those looking for more power and longer run times, LiPo batteries offer an excellent solution with their high energy density and light weight.

In conclusion, when deciding what battery should you use in your RC car depends on your budget and performance needs; if you want something affordable then go with NiCad or NiMh but if you want more power and longer run time then Lithium Polymer (LiPo) is your best option.

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James Gardner