Airsoft batteries: LiPo vs NiMH, voltage, connectors and safety

NiMH or LiPo?

• NiMH (8.4 V or 9.6 V): tough and forgiving, heavier, less punch. Often bundled with entry-level guns.
• LiPo (7.4 V = 2 cells, 11.1 V = 3 cells): light, small, more punch and steady voltage. The most used today, but they need care when charging and storing.

A 7.4 V suits most stock AEGs. An 11.1 V raises the rate of fire and stresses motor, contacts and gearbox: use it only if the manufacturer allows it or the gun has a suitable MOSFET.

Capacity and discharge: mAh and C

mAh is capacity: more mAh, more shots per charge (and a bigger pack). The C rating is how much current the pack can deliver: 20–25 C is usually enough for AEGs; higher values do no harm and matter mostly with strong motors.

Connectors: Tamiya or Deans

The battery connector must match the gun. The most common are Tamiya (small or large) and Deans (also called T-plug), which has lower resistance and is preferred with LiPo. Changing it needs soldering or an adapter.

Of 1192 AEGs in the database, 758 spec sheets list battery or connector: 242 mention Tamiya and 312 Deans/T-plug.

AEGs with battery or connector listed

• ASG Hybrid Series H4 Torrent MK III AEG Value Pack 0.90 J · 2500 g · T-Plug
• ASG CZ Scorpion EVO 3 A1 AEG M95 (versione italiana) 0.90 J · 2300 g · T-Plug
• Krytac KRISS Vector G3 SMG 1.23 J · 2340 g · LiPo 11.1 V T-Plug
• Krytac Trident MK3 CRB-M Foliage Green 1.68 J · 2600 g · LiPo 11.1 V stick/nunchuk
• Umarex HK MP5 SD6 AEG 1.07 J · NiMH 9.6 V
• Cyma AK47S 1.34 J · 2675 g · Mini Tamiya
• Cyma AK74M Full Metal 1.56 J · 2970 g · Mini Tamiya
• G&G TR16 GMS MK3 10.5" 1.14 J · LiPo 11.1 V Deans

Shape: where the battery goes

The space varies: in the stock, the handguard or a small compartment. Common shapes are stick (one long block), nunchuck (two blocks joined by wires) and butterfly (two blocks side by side). Check the compartment size before buying.

LiPo safety

• Use only a LiPo balance charger, never a NiMH one.
• Charge in a fireproof bag and never unattended.
• Don't run it flat: many recommend not going below 3.2–3.3 V per cell. A MOSFET with protection helps.
• When not playing for a while, set it to storage (about 3.8 V per cell).
• A puffed or damaged LiPo must not be used again: dispose of it as hazardous waste.

FAQ

Can I use an 11.1 V LiPo in any AEG?

No. 11.1 V raises the rate of fire and stresses motor, contacts and gearbox: use it only if the manufacturer allows it or the gun has a suitable MOSFET. A 7.4 V is right for most stock AEGs.

Which charger do I need for LiPo?

A balance charger made for LiPo, which monitors each cell. Never use a NiMH charger.

How do I store a LiPo between games?

At storage voltage (about 3.8 V per cell), in a fireproof bag, away from heat. Never leave it fully discharged.

Which connector does my gun use?

Almost always Tamiya (small or large) or Deans/T-plug. The spec sheet shows it when the source lists it; changing it needs soldering or an adapter.