How Long Do I Charge My RC Car Battery? Times by Capacity and Charger
A simple rule gives most RC car charge times: divide the battery’s capacity by the charger’s current, then add a bit for the slower end of the charge. A 5000 mAh pack on a 5 A charger takes roughly an hour from empty; on a 1 A charger, roughly five hours. Partly used packs take less time. Charging at about 1C (current in amps equal to capacity in Ah) is a safe default for most LiPo and NiMH packs. Smart chargers stop automatically when the battery is full.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Example charge times from empty
| Battery | Charge current | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| 1500 mAh | 1.5 A (1C) | about 1 hour |
| 3000 mAh | 1 A | about 3+ hours |
| 5000 mAh | 5 A (1C) | about 1 hour |
| 5000 mAh | 2 A | about 2.5–3 hours |
| 5000 mAh | 1 A | about 5+ hours |
Approximate; the last part of a LiPo charge (constant voltage stage) slows down, and chargers with limited wattage may not reach their rated current on larger packs.
Why the charger matters
Basic chargers supplied with ready-to-run cars often charge at low current, which is gentle but slow, and some simple wall chargers have no automatic cut-off. A smart balance charger lets you set the current, balances LiPo cells, and stops when full. The charger’s power rating (watts) also limits current on higher-voltage packs: a 50 W charger can’t charge a 3S pack at a high rate. Upgrading the charger is often the best way to cut waiting time between runs.
LiPo vs NiMH
- LiPo: charge with a LiPo balance charger in LiPo mode, connect the balance lead, usually at 1C or less unless the pack is rated for faster charging. Never leave unattended.
- NiMH: charge in NiMH mode; the charger detects the “peak” and stops. Packs get warm at the end, which is normal.
Charging tips
- Let the battery cool after a run before charging.
- Charge on a non-flammable surface or in a LiPo bag.
- Check the charger settings match the battery type and cell count.
- Stay nearby and unplug when finished.
- Store LiPos at storage voltage if not used for a few days.
Traxxas and iD chargers
Traxxas iD chargers read compatible batteries and set the right charge automatically, which reduces mistakes. Non-iD batteries can be charged in manual mode; see charging non-Traxxas batteries on a Traxxas charger. How long the charge lasts in use is covered in how long a Traxxas battery lasts.
Can I charge faster?
Some LiPo packs are rated for 2C or higher charging, which halves the time, but faster charging adds heat and wear. Only charge above 1C if the pack’s label allows it, and monitor temperature. For more driving time, buying extra packs and rotating them is usually better than fast charging one pack.
Warning signs
- Battery gets hot or swells while charging: stop immediately.
- Charger reports cell imbalance or errors.
- Charge finishes much faster than expected: the pack may be ageing.
- Strange smells or noises: disconnect and move the pack to a safe place.
Storage charge
LiPo packs last longest when stored at about 3.8 V per cell. Most smart chargers have a storage mode that charges or discharges to this level; use it if the battery won’t be used within a few days.
FAQ
How long does a 5000 mAh RC battery take to charge?
About an hour at 5 A, about five hours at 1 A.
Can I leave my RC battery charging overnight?
No, don’t leave batteries charging unattended.
What is 1C charging?
Charging current in amps equal to capacity in amp-hours.
Why does charging slow near the end?
LiPo chargers switch to constant voltage to finish safely.
More on this topic: the complete RC Cars guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
