Drone batteries come in various types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Lithium Batteries

Advantages: High energy density, lightweight, fast charging, long lifespan, and no memory effect.
Disadvantages: Relatively high cost, strict charging and discharging requirements, and potential damage from overcharging or over-discharging.
Application Scenarios: Suitable for various mid-to-high-end drones, especially models that prioritize lightweight design and long endurance.

Lithium Polymer Batteries (LiPo)

Advantages: An improved version of lithium batteries with higher energy density, lighter weight, lower self-discharge rate, fast charging, and long lifespan, making them an ideal energy storage solution.
Disadvantages: Relatively expensive and requires special protection circuits for safe operation.
Application Scenarios: Commonly used in small and medium-sized drones, particularly those that need to carry additional batteries or equipment to extend flight time or increase payload capacity.

Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries (NiMH)

Advantages: Relatively low cost, long lifespan, and environmentally friendly properties.
Disadvantages: Low voltage, heavy weight, small capacity, and high self-discharge rate.
Application Scenarios: Widely used in entry-level and budget-friendly drones, making them suitable for beginners or users with limited budgets.

Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries (SLA)

Advantages: Low cost and high reliability.
Disadvantages: Large size, heavy weight, and low energy density, making them unsuitable for long-duration flights or high-power applications.
Application Scenarios: Used in some large drones or specific applications, such as agricultural spraying drones.

Why Do Drones Use LiPo Batteries?

Lithium polymer batteries are a new type of rechargeable battery composed of polymer electrolytes, lithium cathode and anode materials, and separators. Compared to traditional liquid electrolyte lithium batteries, LiPo batteries offer higher energy density, improved safety, and a longer lifespan.

LiPo batteries are widely used in the drone industry due to their superior performance, significantly extending flight endurance and better meeting the needs of applications such as aerial photography, search and rescue, security, and agriculture. Additionally, the enhanced safety of LiPo batteries further improves drone reliability.

In the future, graphene batteries may become a potential power source for electric drones. However, since the technology is not yet mature, graphene batteries remain a promising but undeveloped solution for drone propulsion.