Free calculator
LiPo Charge Time Calculator
How long your LiPo battery takes to charge, based on its capacity, the charger current and the charge left in it.
How to use the calculator
- Capacity (mAh): the battery’s capacity.
- Charge current (A): the current you set on the charger. If you’re not sure which one to use, start at 1C (the calculator shows it).
- Charge left: after a normal session there is usually around 20% left, as long as your ESC’s low-voltage cutoff kicks in on time.
The calculator adds 10% to the time for the final constant-voltage stage and cell balancing, when the charger gradually lowers the current.
Example
A 5,000 mAh battery with 20% charge left needs 4,000 mAh put back. At 5 A (1C): 4 Ah ÷ 5 A = 0.8 hours = 48 minutes, plus 10% for balancing: about 53 minutes.
Tips for charging safely
- Use a LiPo charger with balance charging and the right program. See how to choose a LiPo charger.
- Never leave a battery charging unattended, and charge it on a non-flammable surface or in a fireproof LiPo bag.
- Let the battery cool down after use before you charge it.
- If you won’t use it for a few days, leave it at storage voltage. Work out your pack’s voltages with the LiPo voltage calculator.
More details in how long it takes to charge an RC battery and in the guide to RC LiPo batteries.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a LiPo battery take to charge?
Charging at 1C, an empty LiPo takes about an hour. With 20% charge left, about 50–55 minutes. At lower currents it takes proportionally longer.
What does charging at 1C mean?
Charging with a current equal to the battery's capacity: 5 A for a 5,000 mAh pack, 2.2 A for a 2,200 mAh pack. It's the safest current and the one that best preserves the battery.
Can I charge faster than 1C?
Only if the battery manufacturer states a higher charge rate. Charging above the allowed rate heats the battery and shortens its life.
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