There are many types of batteries on the market, and each type of battery has attracted much attention due to its different characteristics and application fields. For a more demanding device like a drone, choosing the right battery is especially important.
Currently, common battery types on the market mainly include lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries. Lithium batteries have become the preferred battery type for drones due to their many advantages.
- Lithium Battery Lithium batteries, with their high energy density, long lifespan, and relatively low weight, have become the preferred battery for drones. High energy density means that lithium batteries have a greater capacity for the same volume or weight, which is especially important for drones that need to fly for long periods. The weight of the battery directly impacts the performance of the drone. The lightweight characteristic of lithium batteries makes them suitable for various types of drones, including lightweight drones that require high maneuverability and long endurance.
Lead-Acid Battery As a traditional type of battery, lead-acid batteries, although having lower energy density and longer charging times, still hold a place in certain drone applications due to their stable and durable power output and lower cost. These drones usually do not prioritize flight time and lightweight design but emphasize stable power supply and lower cost. The low energy density of lead-acid batteries means they store less energy for the same volume or weight, making them unsuitable for drones that require light weight and long endurance.
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery NiMH batteries have a relatively high energy density and long lifespan. Although their energy density is not as high as that of lithium batteries, it is better compared to lead-acid batteries, thus having value in specific applications. The longer charging time and lower charging efficiency, along with their larger volume and weight, make NiMH batteries mainly suitable for some small and micro drones where charging time and weight requirements are not high.
Do drones use lithium-ion batteries?
At present, drones mostly use lithium batteries because they have multiple advantages: high energy density, long lifespan, and relatively low weight. Lithium batteries are divided into the following types:
Lithium Polymer Battery Lithium polymer batteries are widely used in the field of drones. A significant feature of these batteries is their high energy density, which means that lithium polymer batteries can have a larger capacity for the same weight, thus extending the drone’s endurance. Additionally, these batteries can be flexibly designed in shape, making them more convenient for custom drones, allowing the shape and size of the battery to be tailored according to different models and uses of the drone. Another advantage of lithium polymer batteries is their high discharge rate, which can significantly improve the performance and responsiveness of drones during takeoff, acceleration, or other operations requiring instant high power.
Lithium-Ion Battery Lithium-ion batteries are known for their excellent safety and stability, making them an ideal choice for drones that need long-term stable operation. Moreover, lithium-ion batteries have a longer cycle life, allowing for more charge and discharge cycles without significant degradation, which is especially important for drones that are used frequently.
Both lithium polymer and lithium-ion batteries are common choices, so how to choose the right type of lithium battery? We can consider the following aspects to choose the appropriate drone battery.
How to choose the right type of lithium battery?
Weight With the same capacity, lithium polymer batteries, due to their higher energy density, are lighter than lithium-ion batteries. For drones that need lightweight design, reducing weight can effectively increase flight time and performance, making it crucial.
Efficiency Compared to lithium-ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries discharge faster and have a stronger current output capability, which is very beneficial for drones that need rapid acceleration. Therefore, for devices requiring high power output, lithium polymer batteries are more suitable. However, under heavy load, lithium polymer batteries may experience voltage drops, reducing their capacity.
Safety Between these two types of lithium batteries, lithium-ion batteries have a higher safety level. During operation and charging, lithium polymer batteries, if not handled properly, are more prone to swelling, overheating, and fire hazards, while lithium-ion batteries have higher safety measures, making thermal runaway less likely.
Cycle Life Lithium-ion batteries have a longer cycle life compared to lithium polymer batteries, making them more suitable for high durability and long-term use drones, as they can withstand more charge and discharge cycles.
Therefore, if lightweight and discharge rate are more important, such as for most consumer and professional drones, lithium polymer batteries are the best choice. If safety and long-term use are the primary considerations, such as for some special applications or scenarios requiring higher battery life and safety, lithium-ion batteries would be a better choice.
