Airsoft Battery 101

Batteries are the powerhouse of every airsoft electric gun. They come in different sizes shape and form with varying capacity and voltage to match your application. Depending on what gun you have a matching battery must be chosen for your purpose.

Airsoft Batteries, NiCd, NiMH, LiPo

There are different types of airsoft battery but the most common ones are the:

  • Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd or Ni-Cad)
    • Back when airsoft was still starting up, this battery was the way to go because it was the only rechargable battery available at that time. This is the type of battery that most say has "memory" and will gradually takes lesser charge every time until its out. To remedy this, most people drain the battery until it is totally empty before recharging it. This batter what large in size, bulky and heavy. They are also durable and can handle tough beatings.
  • Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
    • A newer batter was available in the market, the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH.) This type of batter can hold more charge compared to a NiCd with the same size. They also tend to have less of the memory issue than its counterpart but take longer to charge. Like its cousin, they are also durable and can handle tough beatings.
  • Lithium-Ion (Li-ion)/ Lithium Polymer (Li-Po)
    • These type of battery do not suffer from memory issue and can hold its charge for a very long time. They can also recharge very quickly however they are not as durable as NiCd or NiMH batters. Draining this type of battery can usually render it unusable. These types of battery must be handled with care.
For beginners, we would recommend going for the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) as it is powerful enough to last most long airsoft games and can withstand normal to rugh handling.  
 
 
Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) is considered the best battery for airsoft use because it has a great capacity and high discharge rate and signifantly smaller than NiMH or NiCd batteries. However the LiPo battery can easily catch fire when not properly used or handled thus is recommended for advanced or more experienced people.