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How To Charge RC Car Batteries: NiMH & LiPo
The variety of batteries and charging choices may seem overwhelming if you are new to radio-controlled (RC) vehicles. In this blog, we will show beginners the basics of how to charge RC batteries—introducing the different types of batteries, the processes involved, and the best practices for doing it right!Summary
- What are the different types of batteries?
- How to charge RC car batteries?
- Watch and learn from following our video
What are the Different Types of RC batteries?
When it comes to hobbies, nothing beats racing a remote-controlled car for exhilaration and enjoyment! RC cars can be customised to a great extent, but of all the parts you can upgrade, the batteries should be at the top of your list to focus on the most.
Many innovations have been made regarding RC car batteries and there are many types of rechargeable batteries that are preferred by many racing enthusiasts. As a result, choosing the right battery type for your vehicle can be confusing, especially for beginners.
For starters, there are two (2) main types of batteries to consider when selecting the best battery for you. Let’s get into it!
2 Types of RC Car Batteries:
NiMH is often the standard choice on entry-level RC cars, which come in various packs with a voltage rating. It is a type of rechargeable battery commonly used for RC cars, trucks, and boats.
LiPo batteries are the preferred power source for most electric RC models. It offers high discharge rates and an optimum energy storage/weight ratio.
How To Charge RC Car Batteries
Learn the differences between Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Lithium Polymer (LiPo) and find out which is right for you and your RC car!
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH)
To demonstrate, we used:
- TORNADO RC A3Pro 2amp NiMH & LiPo/LiFe Balance Charger
- TORNADO RC 2400mAh 7.2v NiMH Stick Pack Tamiya
These items from TORNADO are the perfect charging units for kids and beginners since they are so safe and easy to handle. To begin charging, you must first attach the battery stick to the Tamiya-style connector and connect your charger to 240 volts. Simply press and hold the NiMH button to switch it on; when the light starts to flash, your batteries are charging, and when it stops, they are fully charged.
The TORNADO RC A3Pro 2amp NiMH & LiPo/LiFe Balance Charger is capable of charging any nickel metal battery to its optimum operating voltage.
Lithium Polymer (LiPo)
Step up the performance of your car with LiPo! They operate differently and require different charging techniques. To demonstrate, we used:
- TORNADO RC A3Pro 2amp NiMH & LiPo/LiFe Balance Charger
- NINESTEPS 4200mAh 7.4V 50C 2 Cell LiPo Battery Round Hard C
Take the balance port and insert it into the smaller port on your charger to start charging. Again, to turn it on, simply press and hold the LiPo button. Your batteries will begin to charge when the light begins to flash, and will be fully charged when it stops.
Want faster charging? The TORNADO RC 10 Amp 100W AC/DC Multi Chemistry Charger is an absolute must! This is a full digital charger that can charge a variety of batteries, including lead acid, nickel metal hydride, cadmium, lithium polymer, and others. It takes roughly 20 minutes to charge your batteries when operating at 240 volts. It is usually a good idea to put your LiPo batteries into storage whenever you are done playing with your car for the day because this puts them in the best voltage range for storage. As a result, it is not overcharged, does not grow hot, and is not so flat that if it sits for a long time, it will slowly discharge and become worthless since it will refuse the charge.
Watch and learn!
Are you new to RC? Follow and learn from Brett’s tutorial on how to charge different types of RC batteries!
Choosing the best battery for your car depends on the type of device you have and your specific needs. It allows you to enjoy the optimal running time, which means more fun!
If you have any questions about our RC batteries, or you want to customize your RC car battery, please feel free to contact us at hh@hearnshobbies.com.
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