Li-Pol Baterie

What do "2S" and "3S" lipol mean?

Li-Pol batteries are made up of so-called cells, each of which has a voltage of 3.7 V (volts). The cells are marked with the letter "S" and are most commonly referred to as 2S or 3S in airsoft. So if you find the marking 2S on a battery, it means that it consists of two cells (a two-cell battery) connected in series – for a total of 7.4 V.
A 3S battery therefore has three cells (a three-cell battery), which gives a final voltage of 11.1 V. The more cells, the higher the voltage and, of course, the faster the response of the weapon. But beware, higher voltages also place greater demands on the weapon's electronics and internal parts!

•    2S = 7.4 V (2x 3.7 V cell)
•    3S = 11.1 V (3x 3.7 V cell)

Each cell normally has 3.7 V, but a fully charged cell has up to 4.2 V. This means that an 11.1 V battery normally has 12.6 V when disconnected from the charger after being fully charged!

    

Pro tip:

There are also 1S or 4S batteries, but these are not suitable for airsoft use, so we do not list them.

What is the difference between a 7.4 V and an 11.1 V Li-Pol battery?

7.4 V and 11.1 V lipo batteries differ in the number of cells and thus also in the voltage (V – Volts) they supply to the weapon. Battery voltage is the most important parameter when choosing a battery, as it directly affects the rate of fire and response of the airsoft replica, and is also related to the service life of the replica's internal parts. In airsoft, we mostly encounter voltages of 7.4 and 11.1 V.

Baterie 7,4V (2S)

Two-cell batteries (2s) are gentle on the internal parts of airsoft guns, making them ideal for inexpensive basic guns without a MOSFET or processor unit. That's why beginners often choose them. Or players who want a slower/more realistic rate of fire.

Baterie 11,1V (3S)

On the contrary, 11.1V Li-Pol batteries (3 cells) have higher performance – the motor spins faster, which accelerates the weapon's rate of fire, and the trigger responds almost instantly, which is noticeable in the replica's response. Therefore, 11.1 batteries are the perfect choice for players who need a faster rate of fire and lightning-fast trigger response, typically CQB or Speed Soft.

But beware!

Higher voltage puts more strain on the internal components of the gun, so if you don't have a MOSFET, processor, or reinforced components (mainly gears and pistons) in your gun, it may be damaged.

Our tip:

The battery voltage (V) does not affect the performance (speed of the flying BB) of the weapon. The performance will always be the same for both 7.4 and 11.1V batteries. The voltage only affects the rate of fire and trigger response.

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Is a 7.4V or 11.1V battery better?

There is no clear answer to this question, as it depends on the specific use. In general, however, 11.1V batteries are faster and therefore more popular among players. If an 11.1V battery fits into the replica and the replica is designed for this voltage, there is no reason to limit yourself to the slower 7.4V battery. We indicate whether an airsoft gun is designed for an 11.1V battery for each replica.

7.4 V (2S) battery

•    Two cells ("S" = cell)
•    Less stress on the weapon
•    Slower trigger response
•    Slower rate of fire (which may be a plus for some)
•    Suitable for basic replicas without MOSFET or processor unit
•    Smaller dimensions (one cell less than 3s)

11.1 V (3S) battery

•    Three cells ("S" = cell)
•    Faster rate of fire
•    Faster trigger response
•    Faster wear of internal parts (applies to replicas that are not built for 11.1)
•    Recommended only for weapons with MOSFET or processor unit (ideally, for example, Perun, Gate, Titan, Jefftron)
•    Larger dimensions

Pro tip:

If your gun does not have high-quality electronics, it is better to stick with 7.4 V. High voltage can destroy the trigger contacts.

Li-pol battery shapes

Li-Pol and Li-lion batteries are divided into two basic shapes. The shape often indicates the battery voltage.

Stick

The stick is a single long battery that is manufactured in both 7.4 (shorter) and 11.1 (longer) voltages. 
These batteries are more suitable for AK-type weapons, where they are mounted under the receiver cover, or in the tube of M4-type weapons. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the final length of the battery so that the stock can be inserted all the way to the zero position.

Nunchuck

The nunchuck can be double (typically a 7.4V battery (2S)) or triple (typically an 11.1V battery (3S)). The number of parts also indicates the battery voltage, as manufacturers often divide nunchucks into individual cells. 7.4V 2x cell and 11.1V 3x cell.
However, it is also possible that an 11.1 battery will be divided into only two parts, one smaller and one larger, as it contains two cells.

These batteries are ideal for Crane-type stocks (M4 or tactical versions of AK) where they fit well, as well as machine guns and similar weapons.

Battery capacity – how many mAh is ideal for airsoft?

Capacity is measured in mAh (milliampere hours). The higher the value, the longer the battery will last. Li-Po batteries have a capacity ranging from 250 mAh to 6000 mAh.

Li-pol 250mAh – 1000mAh

They are most commonly used for FCU units for HPA systems, or for small spaces in atypical weapons such as the P90, Kriss Vector, or slim stocks, where a classic battery would not fit.
If such a replica does not have a brushless motor, expect to need several of these small batteries for a single event and to change them more often.

Pro tip:

Thanks to their design, brushless motors consume significantly less electricity, so if you own a replica with this type of motor and an M115 spring, you can play all day with a 1200 mAh battery. 
Due to their properties, we also recommend brushless motors for replicas such as the P90 and Kriss Vector, in short, anywhere where there is limited storage space for a battery.

Li-pol 1200 mAh – 2000 mAh

This is the optimal battery capacity for weapons with brushless motors, as these have significantly lower consumption than conventional motors. Alternatively, for replicas with less storage space for the battery.
For DMR or machine gun type weapons, these batteries will be weak.

Pro tip:

For DMRs and machine guns in general, we recommend batteries with a higher capacity, at least 2000 mAh.
The best choice for these types of replicas are Li-ion batteries with a capacity of up to 6000 mAh

Li-pol 1800 mAh a více

They are suitable for classic AEG replicas with or without brushless motors. With batteries with a capacity of around 2000–3000 mAh, the vast majority of AEG replicas can operate all day long, regardless of whether they have carbon brush motors or not.
Weapons with stronger springs (DMR) or high-speed builds consume batteries faster.

Pro tip:

If you have limited space in your weapon (e.g., M4 stock tube or space under the AK bolt cover), pay close attention to the battery dimensions!

What does the letter "C" mean on batteries?

First, it is fair to mention that "C" – discharge current – is not a concern for the vast majority of players. If you have chosen a battery with a higher capacity, for example above 1200 mAh, and you have a basic weapon from the box, then you do not need to worry about "C."

Discharge current (C) is best addressed in the case of high-velocity weapons, which are mostly custom, DMR, or machine guns.

For basic replicas, you don't need to worry about "C." But if you want peace of mind, go for batteries with a higher capacity (1400 mAh + and 25C +), or simply give us a call and we will be happy to advise you!

Pro tip:

If you own a DMR (powerful SEMI weapon), choose a battery with around 25C and a capacity as high as possible – 2000 mAh+. Li-ion batteries are ideal for DMR replicas. Owners of machine guns or custom builds and upgrades can also follow this rule.

So what exactly is discharge current?

There is no point in discussing specific issues here, but in very simple terms:​​​​​​​

The "C" value determines the discharge and charge current, i.e. how many amps ("electrical energy") the battery can safely supply to an airsoft gun "long-term/at once" or safely receive during charging.
The higher the "C", the more current the battery can supply, the faster the motor will spin - this has a direct effect on the rate of fire and trigger response.
For batteries, the discharge current is given in two values, e.g., 25/50C. Where 25C is the value for continuous discharge current and 50C is the value for peak discharge current. The value for charging current ranges from 0.5 to 5C.

TThese values always refer to the battery capacity (in mAh). It is a multiple of the battery capacity.

Example of 25/50C

•    25C – continuous discharge current (it can handle short term load – typically AUTO)
•    50C – peak discharge current (it can handle short term load , typically SEMI)

Pro tip:

Multifunctional advice: have a battery with the largest possible capacity (1200-2000 mAh), and thus also have a larger current "C".

Beware!

If you plan to use a battery with a capacity of less than or around 1200 mAh and thus a low C rating in weapons with a strong M130+ spring, the motor may overheat and, in extreme cases, the battery may be damaged. Typically, intense firing in SEMI mode with a powerful replica.

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How to charge Li-Pol batteries?

Li-Pol batteries are not toys and can swell, catch fire, or even explode if handled incorrectly. Today's Li-Pol batteries are safe, but a few basic rules must be followed!

Basic rules for charging Li-pol batteries:

•    Always charge batteries with a charger designed for Li-pol batteries!
•    If the charger has both power and balance connectors, always use both connectors and always for one battery!
•    Never charge two batteries on one charger (except for special chargers designed for this purpose)! 
•    Use protective cover
•    Charge the battery on a non-flammable surface, avoid carpets, beds, couches, etc.! 
•    Never leave the battery on the charger unattended!
•    Do not charge a swollen, damaged, or wet battery.

You can find out more about charging batteries in the chargers category.

Undercharging, the silent killer of Li-Pols

Each individual battery cell should never fall below 3.2 V. Failure to comply with this limit, for example during long periods of play and failure to monitor when the battery falls below this limit, results in so-called battery undercharging, which permanently damages the battery.
 
Undercharged Li-Pol battery is beyond repair and must be discarded!

How to prevent Li-pol battery undercharging?

The easiest way is to purchase a gun with a processor unit. Processor units are usually equipped with software for monitoring battery and vibration. In practice, this means that when the battery is nearing depletion, the replica will alert you with a vibration of the motor or an audible signal.

Processor units can also be purchased separately.

 
 

Pro tip:

Never leave the battery connected to the weapon if you plan to store it. Weapons, even those with a processor unit, always have at least a small power consumption, which slowly drains the battery and destroys it.

Another method is to purchase a lipo alarm and measure the battery voltage via the service connector from time to time.

If you manage to undercharge the battery, definitely do not try to revive it with different types of charging!

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Recommended Li-pol manufacturers

At Actionshop, you will find brands that we use and trust.

•    Specna Arms – One of the most common batteries for airsoft guns, which we can recommend for all basic guns or FCU units for HPA systems. 
•    Titan – Our most frequently used manufacturer. We can definitely recommend both the 7.4V and 11.1V batteries!
•    Nuprol – Batteries for airsoft guns with a good price/performance ratio.
•    Turnigy – Batteries for RC models, but also widely used for our purpose – airsoft!
•    ASG – These are again cheaper batteries. They are usually small in size, making them more suitable for atypical spaces or HPA weapons.

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Summary at the end:

Battery capacity

Choose a battery that will ideally last you the whole day. If you have a brushless motor, a battery of around 1450 mAh will suffice for the whole day. Otherwise, we generally recommend purchasing the largest battery that will fit in your replica.

             

Battery Voltage

If the replica has a MOSFET or, ideally, a processor unit, you don't have to worry about 11.1V Li-pol. We always specify whether a replica can handle an 11.1V battery. 
A 7.4V battery is gentler on airsoft guns, so it is suitable for use wherever there is no MOSFET or processor unit. Typically the cheapest basic replicas.

Shape of the accumulator

Choose the shape according to your replica

The nunchuck fits into Crane-type stocks – typically AR/15, M4 type weapons... Each individual cell can then be distributed into the left and right halves (7.4V -2S) of the stock and directly into the center of the tube (11.1V – 3S).

Stick batteries are mainly suitable for AK-type weapons, or shorter ones for M4s in tubes.

Battery manufacturers

Batteries from manufacturers such as Titan, Nuprol, or Specna Arms are suitable for virtually any rifle!