Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Batteries
Lithium polymer batteries or lithium-ion polymer batteries, often abbreviated to Li-Poly, Li-Po, or simply LiPo, are rechargeable lithium batteries featuring electrolytes in the form of polymer gel with graphic anode and cathode in the form of a Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2) or some similar material.
Lithium polymer batteries are usually flat batteries without rigid casings. This allows them to be rather lightweight and are often used in handheld devices, remote-controlled toys, drones, some electric vehicles, etc.
Nominal voltage, cutoff voltage, maximum charging voltage, discharge current, and other features depend on the exact chemistry type and the battery's intended use.
While large, deep-cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries often have a maximum continuous discharge current of around 1C, some high-discharge LiPo batteries feature a maximum discharge current of 100-120C or even more.
Because of such strong discharge currents, in order to keep the cells balanced, smaller LiPo batteries may have both discharging and charging wires, allowing the battery charger to analyze, balance, monitor, and in the end, charge individual cells, prolonging the battery's operating lifetime.
Lithium polymer batteries mostly differ according to their capacity, discharge current, and the number of cells connected in series:
- Lithium LiPo 2S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 7.2-7.4 volts,
- Lithium LiPo 3S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 10.8-11.1 volts,
- Lithium LiPo 4S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 14.4-14.8 volts,
- Lithium LiPo 5S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 18-18.5 volts,
- Lithium LiPo 6S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 21.6-22.2 volts,
- Lithium LiPo 7S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 25.2-25.9 volts,
- Lithium LiPo 8S Battery, with a nominal voltage usually around 28.8-29.6 volts, etc.
High-power tools and vehicles use lithium polymer batteries with even more cells connected in series and hence, higher voltages.
Note: while the lithium 8S battery has a nominal voltage of 28.8-29.6 volts, 8 (eight) cell Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery has a nominal voltage of "only" 25.6 volts. This voltage difference of 3.2-4 volts doesn't seem much, but if those two batteries are being discharged with 100 Amps, the power difference will be 320-400 watts. Designers of high-end devices, tools, and even vehicles often need just a few more volts/amps to be "the best."
With the advances in electronics and chemistry, some manufacturers offer LiPo batteries with 3.8V cells, which in the case of, for example, 8S LiPo batteries, means a nominal voltage of 30.4V.
How to Charge LiPo Batteries?
Although LiPo batteries are able to provide currents up to 50-100+C, the best practice is to charge them with currents in the 0.5-1.0C range or as recommended by the battery manufacturer.
In order to keep them in perfect working order, LiPo Balance Chargers (Amazon link, opens in the new window) are recommended - they feature JST-XH ports for 2S, 3S, 4S, etc. batteries allowing them to charge the battery and balance each cell individually.
Note: Even when charging them with professional Lipo balance chargers, which protect the batteries from overcurrent, overheat, and overvoltage, lithium polymer batteries should not be recharged unattended, not even when being stored in special LiPo Battery Fireproof Bags (Amazon link, opens in the new window). Also, it is a good practice to break in new LiPo batteries using a good balance charger/discharger by charging and discharging the battery for the first few times down to 25%, 50%, and 75% DoD - even gradually than that! Just my 2c ...
Also, never underestimate lithium batteries' tendency to catch fire...
LiPo Batteries Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some of the most common Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about LiPo batteries:
How are LiPo batteries different from other lithium batteries?
LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries differ from other lithium batteries, like Li-ion (Lithium-Ion) batteries, mainly in their composition and form factor. While Li-ion batteries use a liquid electrolyte, LiPo batteries contain a solid or gel-like polymer electrolyte, making them more lightweight and flexible.
This flexibility allows LiPo batteries to be molded into various shapes and sizes, ideal for compact or irregularly shaped devices such as drones, RC vehicles, and smartphones.
However, LiPo batteries generally have a slightly lower energy density and are more sensitive to charging and discharging conditions compared to Li-ion batteries, which require careful handling and storage to avoid swelling or safety issues.
What are the main benefits of using LiPo batteries?
The main benefits of using LiPo batteries include their lightweight and compact design, which allows them to fit in devices where space and weight are critical, such as drones, RC vehicles, and mobile devices.
Their high discharge rates provide rapid and efficient energy output, ideal for applications that require bursts of power. Additionally, LiPo batteries offer flexibility in shape and size, allowing them to be custom-shaped for various applications, and they have low self-discharge rates, which means they retain charge well when not in use.
Overall, LiPo batteries combine portability, power, and versatility, making them popular in both consumer electronics and hobbyist applications.
Are LiPo batteries safe to use?
LiPo batteries are generally safe to use when handled correctly, but they do require careful management to avoid potential risks. Due to their sensitive chemical composition, they can be prone to swelling, overheating, or even fire if overcharged, short-circuited, or physically damaged.
To ensure safety, it's very important to use appropriate chargers (balance chargers), avoid over-discharging, and store them in a cool, dry place.
How long do LiPo batteries typically last?
LiPo batteries typically last 300 to 500 charge cycles under optimal conditions, though actual lifespan can vary based on usage, charging habits, and storage practices.
Proper handling, such as avoiding overcharging, not fully discharging, and storing at around 50% charge when not in use, can help extend their lifespan.
High-drain applications or frequent deep discharges may reduce the overall cycle life, while careful use and maintenance can maximize performance over time.
Can LiPo batteries be used in cold or hot temperatures?
LiPo batteries can operate in a range of temperatures, but they perform best between 15°C to 45°C (59°F to 113°F). Using them in very cold conditions can reduce capacity and output, as low temperatures slow down the chemical reactions within the battery, leading to decreased performance.
In hot temperatures, LiPo batteries may overheat, potentially causing swelling, degradation, or even safety hazards if they exceed their safe operating range.
To preserve performance and longevity, avoid extreme temperatures and, when necessary, warm up or cool down batteries gradually before use.
Why do LiPo batteries sometimes swell or puff up?
LiPo batteries can swell or puff up due to gas buildup inside the battery, often caused by overcharging, over-discharging, physical damage, or exposure to high temperatures.
When these batteries are stressed, the electrolyte inside breaks down and releases gases, which accumulate and expand, causing the battery casing to puff. This swelling is a clear sign of damage and a potential safety hazard, as swollen batteries are more prone to leaks, overheating, and, in severe cases, fire or explosion.
If a LiPo battery swells, it should be discontinued immediately, handled carefully, and disposed of at a certified recycling facility to avoid further risks.
Why does my LiPo battery smell sweet, and is it dangerous?
A sweet smell from a LiPo battery can indicate it has been punctured, damaged, or is leaking, which is a serious safety concern. This odor often comes from the electrolyte chemicals within the battery, which may leak if the battery’s internal structure is compromised.
A damaged LiPo battery poses risks of fire, thermal runaway, or even explosion if not handled properly. If you notice this smell, immediately stop using the battery, avoid charging or discharging it, and carefully place it in a fireproof container.
Dispose of it safely at a designated battery recycling or hazardous waste facility, as continued use could lead to dangerous outcomes.
For more about LiPo batteries and their chargers, feel free to check:
- LiPo Battery Balancers: What They Are and Why You Need One
- Reviving a Dead LiPo Battery: Is It Possible and Is It Safe?
Here is the list of our latest lithium polymer battery reviews and recommendations, ordered according to the date added or updated:
Zeee SDL-9545180 4S 9000mAh 14.8V 100C RC LiPo Battery
Zeee SDL-9545180 is a relatively large and heavy 4S LiPo battery intended for heavy-duty use - the battery features metal plates on 5 sides for additional protection, a large 9000mAh capacity, and a maximum discharge current of 100C!
Zeee SDL-9545180 is intended for RC cars, trucks, tanks, and similar vehicles, but it can be used for large RC planes, robots, electric vehicles, and other applications that require such batteries.
Updated: August 22, 2024.
HOOVO 6S 22.2V 8000mAh 100C LiPo Battery
HOOVO 6S 22.2V 8000mAh 100C LiPo Battery is a lithium polymer (LiPo) battery intended for powering large and energy-hungry RC models and other devices, tools, toys, gadgets, etc.
HOOVO 6S 22.2V 8000mAh 100C LiPo Battery is a soft case LiPo battery designed to provide very strong currents and to accept charge rather fast.
Published: March 4, 2024.
HOOVO 7.4V 70C 6200mAh 2S Lipo Battery
HOOVO 7.4V 70C 6200mAh 2S Lipo Battery is a very popular Lithium Polymer hard-case battery intended for various hobby applications, including RC trucks, airplanes, and drones, but also for hobby robotics and similar projects.
HOOVO 7.4V 70C 6200mAh 2S Lipo Battery features a very balanced design, offering very good performances and safe operation while keeping the price in check, especially when two or more batteries are purchased as a bundle.
Published: June 12, 2023.
HRB 5S 18.5V 50-100C 5000mAh LiPo Batteries
HRB 5S 18.5V 50-100C 5000mAh LiPo Batteries are relatively large and powerful Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries featuring 5 LiPo cells connected in series, strong discharge currents, long lifetime, etc., and are commonly used in various RC toys, trucks, quadcopters and similar vehicles that require a lightweight and reliable power source.
HRB offer 5S 18.5V 50-100C 5000mAh LiPo batteries with either XT90 or Deans T plug and with standard JST-XH charging/balancing plug.
Published: October 14, 2022.
Ovonic 7.4V 2S 50C 6200mAh Hard Case Lipo Battery
Ovonic 7.4V 2S 50C 6200mAh Hard Case Lipo Batteries are very popular 2S LiPo batteries very often used in 1/8 and 1/10 RC cars and trucks and other RC toys.
Ovonic 7.4V 2S 50C 6200mAh Hard Case Lipo Batteries are known for their durability, they support a large number of charging/discharging cycles, strong output currents, etc. But, like any other LiPo battery, Ovonic 7.4V 2S 50C 6200mAh Hard Case Lipo Battery also must be taken special care of, especially when charging.
Published: March 9, 2022.
HOOVO 3S 11.1V 50C 5200mAh Lipo Battery
HOOVO 3S 11.1V 50C 5200mAh Lipo Battery is a lightweight lithium polymer rechargeable battery featuring Tracxas discharge plug, and being able to provide plenty of power for various RC toys and hobby projects including RC cars, trucks, airplanes, helicopters, FPV, drones, etc.
Like all other Lipo batteries, HOOVO 3S 11.1V 50C 5200mAh Lipo Battery should also be charged using professional balance chargers with few first charging/discharging cycles being done at home, in controlled conditions, gradually increasing Depth of Discharge (DoD%).
Updated: September 10, 2021.
Ovonic 5S 18.5V 100C 1300mAh Lipo Battery
Ovonic 5S 18.5V 100C 1300mAh Lipo Battery is a very popular 5S Lipo battery with a very high discharge rate, suitable even for professional FPV competitions, for powering RC quadcopters and other multirotors, for RC helicopters, RC airplanes, and similar.
Ovonic 5S 18.5V 100C 1300mAh Lipo Battery is able to provide plenty of power for a very short time, but like all other Lipo batteries, it should be charged with typical 0.5-1.0C charging currents.
Published: August 21, 2021.
Ovonic 2S 7.4V 5200mAh 50C Lipo Battery
Ovonic 2S 7.4V 5200mAh 50C Lipo Battery is a reliable and affordable, high-capacity lithium-polymer battery with a hard case, intended for RC toys and similar applications that require lightweight energy sources being able to provide plenty of energy and power.
Ovonic 2S 7.4V 5200mAh 50C Lipo Battery features standard Deans T plug and JST-XH plug, ensuring firm connection when being both discharged and charged.
Published: August 21, 2021.
Zeee SDL-9543125 2S 7.4V 50C 5200 mAh Lipo Battery
Zeee SDL-9543125 is a very popular 2S 7.4V 50C 5200 mAh lithium polymer battery, often used in 1/8 and 1/10 RC cars and trucks, but also other RC toys like RC airplanes, RC helicopters, RC boats, drones, etc.
Zeee SDL-9543125 2S 7.4V 50C 5200mAh Lipo Battery features a 2S1P configuration and comes with a Deans T connector/plug and JST-XH plug. Although it is a Lipo battery, Zeee SDL-9543125 features a hard case for increased protection.
Published: August 21, 2021.