How should I choose a battery for my gel blaster?

Summary Checklist:

1. Battery Type: LiPo or NiMH (LiPo preferred for performance).
2. Voltage: 7.4V for stock, 11.1V for upgraded blasters.
3. Capacity: 1500mAh to 2000mAh for a good balance between power and weight.
4. Discharge Rate (C Rating): 20C-30C for standard blasters, higher for performance upgrades.
5. Size/Shape: Check the battery compartment for compatibility.
6. Charger: Ensure you use a compatible charger for LiPo or NiMH batteries.
7. Safety: Handle batteries carefully, store and charge them safely.

Choosing the right battery for your gel blaster is essential for maximizing performance, ensuring safety, and prolonging the life of both the blaster and the battery. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you select the best battery for your gel blaster:

1. Understand the Battery Type

Gel blasters commonly use Lithium-Polymer (LiPo) or Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. Each type has distinct characteristics:

• LiPo Batteries:

  • Pros: Lightweight, higher energy density, better performance, faster charging times, and longer lifespan.
  • Cons: Require careful handling, need a LiPo-safe charger, and can be dangerous if overcharged, overdischarged, or damaged.
  • Common Use: Most high-performance gel blasters.

• NiMH Batteries:

  • Pros: Safer than LiPo, easier to maintain, and more forgiving regarding overcharging or discharging.
  • Cons: Heavier, shorter run time, and slower discharge rates compared to LiPo.
  • Common Use: Lower-cost or entry-level gel blasters.

2. Check Voltage (V) Compatibility

The voltage of the battery determines the power supplied to the motor, affecting the blaster's performance (rate of fire, velocity, etc.).

• Common Voltages:
  • 7.4V: Most common for stock or mid-range gel blasters.
  • 11.1V: Provides higher performance and is usually used for upgraded gel blasters with stronger motors.
  Ensure the gel blaster is rated for the voltage you choose. Higher voltage (11.1V) provides more power but can strain the motor and gearbox if the blaster is not designed for it.

3. Check the Battery Capacity (mAh)

The capacity of a battery is measured in milliampere-hours (mAh). It indicates how long the battery will last during use before needing a recharge.

• Capacity range: Typically, batteries range from 1000mAh to 3000mAh for gel blasters.
  • Higher mAh (e.g., 2000mAh or more): Longer playtime, but the battery is often bulkier.
  • Lower mAh (e.g., 1000mAh): Shorter run time, but lighter and compact.
  For balance, 1500mAh to 2000mAh is common for good performance in most gel blasters.

4. Ensure Proper Size and Shape

Gel blasters have specific battery compartments, so you need a battery that fits. Common battery sizes include:

• Stick Pack: Long and narrow, typically used in standard gel blasters.
• PEQ Box: Square or rectangular, used for blasters with external battery compartments.

Check the gel blaster's manual for the maximum size the battery compartment can accommodate.

5. Check Discharge Rate (C Rating)

The discharge rate, or C rating, indicates how much current the battery can safely provide. A higher C rating means the battery can supply more power at a faster rate without overheating.

• For standard gel blasters, a 20C to 30C rating is usually sufficient.
• For high-performance models, you may need 40C or higher for consistent power delivery.

6. Consider the Battery Charger

Always use the correct charger for the battery type, especially if you're using LiPo batteries. Using a mismatched charger can damage the battery and pose a safety hazard.

• LiPo Batteries require a LiPo-specific charger that features balancing, which ensures the cells charge evenly.
• NiMH Batteries can typically be charged with a NiMH charger.

7. Assess Battery Life and Run Time

The run time of your gel blaster depends on the combination of battery capacity (mAh) and your usage (rate of fire). A higher mAh rating gives you more playing time per charge.

• A 1500mAh 7.4V battery could provide about 20-30 minutes of play at moderate to high rates of fire.
• A 2000mAh 11.1V battery might last a little less due to the higher power consumption but will offer more consistent performance.

8. Safety and Maintenance

• Balance and Store Properly: If you're using LiPo batteries, always balance charge them, and store them at a safe voltage (around 3.7V per cell for LiPo).
• Avoid Overcharging: Overcharging or deep discharging can damage the battery.
• Physical Condition: Always inspect your battery for signs of wear, swelling, or damage. If a battery is damaged, it should be safely disposed of.

9. Brand and Quality

• Opt for reputable brands like Turnigy, Gens Ace, or Tattu for LiPo batteries.
• Avoid generic or unbranded batteries as they may have lower performance and safety standards.

10. Check for Additional Features

Some batteries may include features like built-in connectors for easier plug-in, or features for quick swap, but make sure your connectors match the battery and the blaster.

Check out the 7.4V batteries we recommend for you:

Cylindrical Gel Blaster Lipo Battery SM Plug 7.4/11.1V 25C

B3 Balance Charger for 11.1V 7.4V Lipo Battery

SKD G18s M92 Pistol Blaster Battery 7.4v 450mah

SM-4P Plug 7.4v 600mah 14500 Lipo Battery

Check out our recommended 11.1V batteries:

Bosli-Po Tactical Version XT30 LiPo Battery 11.1v

Lehui Beretta 1301 XT30 Plug 11.1v 1200mah Battery

11.1V Battery USB Charger

Elite Soldier 11.1v SM/Tamiya/XT30 Plug Lipo Battery 2000mah 30C

Bosli-po Lipo Battery with Tamiya Plug for alpha king, hk416d

Stariver Starcore High Performance LiPo Battery 11.1v 40C XT30 Plug