Ever feel like your drone or RC car is missing that extra burst of power? That feeling often points to the heart of your machine: the battery. Specifically, a 4S Lipo battery. But with so many numbers and letters on the packaging, picking the right one can feel like cracking a secret code.
Choosing the wrong 4S Lipo battery can lead to disappointing performance, shorter flight times, or even damage to your valuable equipment. It’s a common frustration for hobbyists and enthusiasts alike. You want more power, longer playtime, and reliable energy, but the sheer variety can be overwhelming.
This post is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what all those numbers mean and guide you toward selecting the perfect 4S Lipo battery for your needs. By the end, you’ll understand the key features that make a 4S battery great and feel confident in your next purchase. Get ready to power up your passion!
Our Top 5 4S Lipo Battery Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 4S Lipo Battery Detailed Reviews
1. HOOVO 4S Lipo Battery 14.8V 6500mAh 120C RC Battery Pack with TR Plug for Maxx X-Maxx RC Car Truck Buggy Crawler Helicopter Drone
Rating: 8.6/10
Power up your RC adventures with the HOOVO 4S Lipo Battery 14.8V 6500mAh 120C! This pack of two batteries is designed to give your Maxx, X-Maxx, or other 1/5 to 1/8 scale RC vehicles the serious boost they need for longer run times and incredible performance. With its high discharge rate and ample capacity, you’ll experience thrilling speed and consistent power.
What We Like:
- High Energy Density: Get more power packed into every charge for longer playtime.
- Longer Run Times: Enjoy up to 15% more time out in the field.
- Faster Charging: Spend less time waiting and more time having fun with quicker recharge times.
- Uniform Cell Balance: This helps your battery last longer and perform better.
- Lightweight Design: The batteries are about 8% lighter, which can improve your RC vehicle’s handling.
- ISO Certified: These batteries meet international quality standards for reliability.
- Versatile Application: Works with a wide range of RC cars, trucks, boats, drones, and helicopters if the specs match.
- Two-Pack Value: You get two batteries, so you always have a spare ready to go.
What Could Be Improved:
- Softcase Design: While lighter, softcase batteries might be more prone to damage than hardcase options if not handled carefully.
- Specific Plug Requirement: Ensure your RC vehicle uses the TR Plug, or you might need an adapter.
If you’re looking to push the limits of your RC vehicle with reliable power and extended run times, the HOOVO 4S Lipo Battery pack is a fantastic choice.
2. Zeee 4S Lipo Battery 6200mAh 14.8V 80C Hard Case Battery with EC5 Connector for Car Truck Tank RC Buggy Truggy Racing Hobby(2 Packs)
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for some serious RC action with the Zeee 4S Lipo Battery 6200mAh 14.8V 80C Hard Case Battery. This pack comes with two powerful batteries, each boasting a 6200mAh capacity and an 80C discharge rate, perfect for giving your RC car, truck, tank, buggy, or truggy the boost it needs for exciting races and wild adventures. The robust hard case design and EC5 connector ensure durability and a secure connection.
What We Like:
- High Capacity and Discharge Rate: The 6200mAh capacity and 80C discharge rate provide plenty of power for extended playtime and high-speed performance.
- Durable Hard Case: The hard case protects the battery from impacts and damage, making it ideal for rugged RC use.
- Versatile Application: Fits many 1/10 and 1/8 scale RC models, including popular brands like Traxxas and Losi, as long as the specs match.
- Convenient 2-Pack: You get two batteries right out of the box, so you can swap them out and keep the fun going.
- Clear Specifications: The product details are clearly laid out, making it easy to check compatibility.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dimensions Require Careful Checking: While it fits many models, users must double-check the battery’s dimensions (138*47*48mm) to ensure it fits their specific RC vehicle.
- Safety Precautions are Crucial: Users must follow strict safety guidelines, including using only LiPo-specific balance chargers and never charging unattended.
If you’re looking to upgrade your RC car’s power and runtime, these Zeee 4S Lipo batteries are a solid choice. Just remember to always prioritize safety when handling and charging LiPo batteries.
3. Socokin 4S Lipo Battery 14.8V 6500mAh 100C Lipo Batterie with TR Connector Plug Soft Case for RC Car X-Maxx RC Boat RC Racing Truck Helicopter Airplane
Rating: 9.1/10
Unleash the power in your RC adventures with the Socokin 4S Lipo Battery 14.8V 6500mAh 100C. This battery pack is built for high-performance RC vehicles, offering a robust 14.8V and a massive 6500mAh capacity to keep you running longer. Its 100C discharge rate means it can deliver a surge of power when your RC car, boat, truck, helicopter, or airplane needs it most. The included TR connector plug and soft case design make it a convenient and safe choice for a variety of RC models.
What We Like:
- High capacity (6500mAh) for extended run times.
- High discharge rate (100C) for powerful performance.
- Comes as a 2-pack for great value.
- Durable soft case design for protection.
- Balanced charging plug (JST-XHR) for safe charging.
- Durable 1P configuration for longer battery life.
What Could Be Improved:
- The TR connector might not be compatible with all Traxxas chargers; a genuine brand LiPo balance charger is recommended.
- Users need to ensure dimensions and plug type match their specific RC model before purchasing.
- Requires careful charging practices to avoid damage, such as waiting for the battery to cool and avoiding overcharging/over-discharging.
This Socokin Lipo battery pack provides excellent power and longevity for your RC hobbies. Just remember to follow the charging guidelines for the best and safest experience.
4. Zeee 14.8V 4S Lipo Battery 50C 3300mAh Soft Case Battery with XT60 Plug for RC Airplane Helicopter RC Boat UAV Drone FPV RC Car Truck Boat(2 Packs)
Rating: 9.1/10
Power up your RC adventures with the Zeee 14.8V 4S Lipo Battery 50C 3300mAh! This two-pack of soft-case batteries is designed to give your RC airplanes, helicopters, boats, drones, and cars the boost they need for longer, more exciting flights and drives. With a solid 14.8V and a strong 50C discharge rate, these batteries deliver reliable power for your high-performance models.
What We Like:
- Great Value: You get two high-capacity 3300mAh batteries in one pack, offering excellent bang for your buck.
- Versatile Power: The 50C discharge rate means these batteries can handle the demands of powerful RC vehicles like Slash VXL and E-Maxx Brushless.
- Ready to Go: The included XT60 plug makes connecting to your RC models quick and easy.
- Sufficient Capacity: 3300mAh provides a good amount of runtime for many RC applications.
- Clear Specifications: The dimensions and weight are clearly listed, helping you confirm compatibility.
What Could Be Improved:
- Soft Case Durability: While soft cases are flexible, they might not offer the same level of protection as hard-case batteries in rough landings or crashes.
- Charging Instructions: The safety warning emphasizes using specific chargers and not exceeding 1C, but more detailed advice on optimal charging practices would be helpful.
If you’re looking for dependable power for your 14.8V RC gear, this Zeee battery two-pack is a solid option. Just remember to always charge and handle LiPo batteries with care.
5. Zeee 4S Lipo Battery 2200mAh 14.8V 120C with XT60 Plug RC Graphene Battery for RC Models RC Boat FPV Drone Quadcopter Helicopter Airplane RC Car(2 Pack)
Rating: 9.1/10
Power up your RC adventures with the Zeee 4S Lipo Battery 2200mAh 14.8V 120C. This pack comes with two high-performance graphene batteries, each featuring an XT60 plug for easy connection. Whether you’re flying a drone, racing a boat, or piloting a helicopter, these batteries deliver the energy you need.
What We Like:
- High Discharge Rate: The 120C rating means these batteries can deliver a lot of power quickly, which is great for demanding RC models.
- Good Capacity: With 2200mAh, you get a decent amount of flight or run time for many applications.
- XT60 Plug: This is a common and reliable connector for RC electronics, making it easy to use with many devices.
- Dual Pack: Getting two batteries in one package is a great value, allowing for longer sessions or a backup.
- Versatile Application: They fit a wide range of RC models like drones, FPVs, airplanes, helicopters, and boats, as long as the specs match.
What Could Be Improved:
- Safety Precautions: While essential, the safety warnings about charging and handling LiPo batteries can be a bit daunting for new users.
- Specific Model Fit: The note that it only fits if voltage, dimension, and plug match is important but means you still need to check carefully before buying.
If you’re looking for reliable power for your RC models, this 2-pack of Zeee 4S Lipo batteries offers a solid combination of performance and value.
Your Guide to Picking the Best 4S Lipo Battery
So, you’re looking for a 4S Lipo battery for your drone, RC car, or maybe even a power tool? Great choice! These batteries pack a punch, giving your gear more power and longer run times. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry, this guide will help you find the perfect fit.
What Makes a Good 4S Lipo Battery?
When you’re shopping, keep these key features in mind. They’ll tell you a lot about how well the battery will perform.
Key Features to Look For
- Capacity (mAh): This is how much energy the battery can hold. Higher mAh means longer flight times or more run time. Think of it like a bigger gas tank for your vehicle. A common range for 4S batteries is from 1300mAh to 5000mAh or more.
- Discharge Rate (C-Rating): The C-rating tells you how much power the battery can safely give out at once. A higher C-rating is good for things that need a lot of quick power, like high-performance drones or RC cars that accelerate fast. For example, a 75C battery can deliver 75 times its capacity in amps. So, a 2000mAh 75C battery can give you up to 150 amps.
- Voltage: A 4S Lipo battery has 4 cells connected in series. Each cell is about 3.7V nominal (fully charged it’s closer to 4.2V). So, a 4S battery has a nominal voltage of around 14.8V. This is standard for many applications.
- Connector Type: Make sure the battery has the right connector for your device. Common connectors include XT60, XT90, and EC3. If it doesn’t match, you might need an adapter.
- Dimensions and Weight: Batteries come in different sizes and weights. Make sure it fits in your device and doesn’t make it too heavy.
What’s Inside a 4S Lipo Battery?
These batteries are made from specific materials that help them work.
Important Materials
- Lithium Polymer (LiPo): This is the main material. LiPo batteries are known for being lightweight and having high energy density. This means they can store a lot of energy for their size.
- Electrolyte: This is a special liquid or gel inside the battery that helps the lithium ions move between the positive and negative parts of the battery. This movement creates electricity.
- Casing: The outer shell protects the delicate inner components. Good quality casings are durable.
What Makes a Battery Great (or Not So Great)?
Some things make a 4S Lipo battery perform better, and others can make it less reliable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better materials and have stricter quality control. This usually means a more reliable and longer-lasting battery.
- Cell Quality: The individual cells inside the battery matter a lot. High-quality cells hold their charge better and can be charged and discharged more times.
- Build Quality: How the battery is put together is important. Good soldering, secure wiring, and a strong casing help prevent damage and ensure safety.
- Storage and Charging Habits: How you treat your battery affects its life. Always use a proper LiPo balance charger. Don’t overcharge or fully drain the battery. Store it at around 50% charge if you won’t be using it for a while. Extreme temperatures can also hurt the battery.
How Do People Use Them?
4S Lipo batteries are popular for many fun and practical uses.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Drones: Many hobbyist and professional drones use 4S batteries. They provide the power needed for longer flight times and the ability to carry cameras or other equipment. Pilots love the extra power for maneuvers and extended aerial photography sessions.
- RC Cars and Trucks: Enthusiasts use 4S batteries to give their remote-control vehicles more speed and acceleration. This makes racing and bashing much more exciting.
- RC Airplanes: Larger RC planes often need the power of a 4S battery to get airborne and stay up in the air for longer flights.
- Other Hobbies: Some power tools, robots, and other DIY projects can benefit from the consistent power of a 4S Lipo battery.
Frequently Asked Questions About 4S Lipo Batteries
Here are some common questions people ask about these batteries.
Q: What is the main difference between a 3S and a 4S Lipo battery?
A: A 4S battery has one more cell than a 3S battery. This means a 4S battery has a higher voltage (around 14.8V) than a 3S battery (around 11.1V). Higher voltage usually means more power.
Q: How long will a 4S Lipo battery last?
A: The lifespan depends on how you use it, how many charge cycles it goes through, and how well you take care of it. A good battery, used properly, can last for several hundred charge cycles.
Q: Can I use a higher C-rating than recommended?
A: Yes, you generally can. A higher C-rating is safe and can provide more power if your device needs it. However, you cannot use a lower C-rating if your device requires a high discharge rate, as it might not be able to supply enough power.
Q: Is it safe to charge a 4S Lipo battery overnight?
A: No, it is not recommended to charge LiPo batteries overnight. Always supervise charging. Modern LiPo chargers have safety features, but it’s best to stay nearby in case of any issues.
Q: How do I store a 4S Lipo battery?
A: Store LiPo batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If you won’t use the battery for a few weeks or more, it’s best to store it at about 50% charge (storage voltage). This helps preserve its life.
Q: What happens if I over-discharge my 4S Lipo battery?
A: Over-discharging a LiPo battery (draining it too much) can permanently damage it. It can reduce its capacity and lifespan, and in extreme cases, make it unsafe. Many devices and chargers have low-voltage cutoffs to prevent this.
Q: Do I need a special charger for a 4S Lipo battery?
A: Yes, you need a LiPo-specific balance charger. These chargers are designed to charge each cell individually to ensure they all have the same voltage, which is crucial for the battery’s health and safety.
Q: What does “balance charging” mean?
A: Balance charging ensures that each cell in the battery pack reaches the same voltage. This is important for the longevity and safety of the battery. Your LiPo charger will have a balance port for this.
Q: Can I use a 4S battery if my device is rated for 3S?
A: Generally, no. Using a higher voltage battery than your device is designed for can damage its electronics due to the increased voltage. Always match the battery voltage to your device’s requirements.
Q: How can I tell if my 4S Lipo battery is damaged?
A: Look for signs like swelling or puffing of the battery case, physical damage to the casing or wires, or if the battery no longer holds a charge well. If you notice any of these, stop using the battery immediately and dispose of it safely.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.