The best LiPo batteries for RC cars - Traxxas, Gens Ace & Co. in comparison
Who a RC car operates, knows: The LiPo battery decides on driving pleasure, running time and performance. But which one RC car battery is the right one for your model? We compare the most popular brands and explain what you should pay attention to when buying.
What is a LiPo battery and why is it so important?
LiPo stands for Lithium polymer - a battery technology that has become standard in the RC sector. Compared to older NiMH batteries LiPo batteries:
- Higher energy density (more capacity with less weight)
- Higher discharge currents (more power for your RC car)
- Shorter loading times
- Longer lifespan with proper care
The disadvantage: LiPo batteries require more care when loading and storing. A suitable one LiPo charger and a fireproof storage bag are mandatory.
The most important key figures for RC car LiPo batteries explained
Before we go into the comparison, the most important terms:
- Capacity (mAh): Indicates how much energy the RC battery saves. More mAh = longer runtime, but also more weight. Typical values: 3000-8000mAh.
- Number of cells / voltage (S): 1S = 3.7V, 2S = 7.4V, 3S = 11.1V, 4S = 14.8V. More voltage = more speed - but only if your vehicle and controller support it.
- C rating: The discharge rate. A 3500mAh battery with 25C can deliver a maximum of 87.5A (3.5 × 25). For RC cars At least 25C is recommended, for racing 50C+.
- Plug type: Traxxas ID, Deans (T-Plug), XT60, EC3 - make sure the plug fits your vehicle.
The most popular LiPo brands for RC cars in comparison
Traxxas ID LiPo battery
Traxxas is one of the best known RC car brands worldwide – and theirs Traxxas ID LiPo batteries are specifically tailored to Traxxas vehicles. The integrated ID chip communicates with the Traxxas EZ-Peak charger and prevents charging errors.
- ✅ Plug and play for all Traxxas vehicles
- ✅ Safety chip prevents overcharging
- ✅ Very good quality control
- ❌ Proprietary plug (can only be used with an adapter for other vehicles)
- ❌ Slightly more expensive than alternatives
Recommendation: Traxxas ID LiPo 3500mAh 7.4V 2S 25C – ideal for beginners and Traxxas owners who want to be on the safe side.
Gens Ace & Tattu LiPo batteries
Gen Ace (and the racing sub-line Tattu) is one of the most popular brands in the hobby and racing sectors. Excellent value for money and a huge selection of models make them the first choice for many RC car driver.
- ✅ Very good value for money
- ✅ Large selection of capacities, cell numbers and connectors
- ✅ High C ratings available for racing (50C, 100C+)
- ❌ No proprietary security system like Traxxas ID
Recommendation: Gens Ace 5000mAh 11.1V 3S 50C - strong performance for 1:8 buggy and Truggy at a fair price.
Cheap alternatives (Overlander, Turnigy & Co.)
There are many cheap ones in the entry-level segment RC batteries. These are often sufficient for occasional driving, but in racing or intensive use they reach their limits more quickly.
Recommendation: Only for occasional drivers with a very limited budget.
Which LiPo battery fits which RC car?
| Vehicle type | Capacity | tension | C rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1:10 touring/buggy | 3000-5000mAh | 2S (7.4V) | 25-50C |
| 1:8 buggy/truggy | 4000-6000mAh | 3S-4S | 50C+ |
| 1:8 On-Road / Racing | 3500-4500mAh | 2S-3S | 50-100C |
| Crawlers | 3000-5000mAh | 2S | 20-25C |
Care for the LiPo battery properly – this way it will last longer
A LiPo battery Lasts 200-500 charge cycles with proper care. These tips will extend the life of yours RC car batteries:
- Never discharge below 3.5V per cell – Most regulators have a low voltage cutoff, set it correctly
- Always charge with a LiPo-compatible charger – never with a NiMH charger
- Charge to 50% capacity (Storage Charge) when stored – most modern chargers have this function
- Never charge unattended – and always in a fireproof LiPo bag
- If damaged or bloated, discard immediately – bloated LiPos are a safety risk
Conclusion: The best LiPo battery for your RC car
For Traxxas driver is the one Traxxas ID LiPo the safest and easiest choice. Anyone looking for more performance, more choice or a better price-performance ratio is here Gen Ace well served. More important than the brand, however, is that the capacity, voltage and C rating match your vehicle.
Check out our current selection RC car batteries in the Artexio shop - we offer tested quality products for every area of application.