What Is a LiPo Battery C Rating? A Must-Know for RC Hobbyists

If you’ve ever shopped for a LiPo battery, you’ve likely seen something like this printed on the label: “1300mAh 4S 75C” — but what does that “C” really mean?

Whether you're into drones, RC cars, airplanes, or robotics, understanding a LiPo battery’s C rating is essential. It tells you how much current your battery can safely deliver — and how to avoid overloading or damaging your equipment.

Let’s break it down.

🔋 What Does the C Rating Mean?

The C rating (or discharge rating) is a multiplier that tells you how quickly a LiPo battery can discharge its energy.

More specifically:

C rating × battery capacity (in Ah) = maximum continuous current output (in Amps)

📘 Example:

If you have a 1000mAh (1.0Ah) battery with a 30C rating:

• 30C × 1.0Ah = 30A

• This battery can safely deliver 30 amps continuously

If it’s marked as 30C / 60C, the second number is the burst rating — the max current it can deliver for a short time (usually a few seconds).

So in this case: 60C × 1.0Ah = 60A burst current

⚠️ Why the C Rating Matters

• Too low C rating? Your battery can overheat, swell, or fail

• Too high C rating? No damage, but often costs more and weighs more than necessary

Choosing the right C rating ensures optimal performance and safety for your device.

🏎️ How to Choose the Right C Rating

It depends on your device’s power demands. Here's a rough guide:

Tip: It’s better to go slightly higher than needed to add a safety buffer.

🧠 Final Thoughts

The C rating is one of the most critical specs on a LiPo battery, right next to voltage and capacity. It tells you how much power your battery can safely provide without overheating or shortening its life.

Always match your C rating to your application, and don’t guess — an under-rated battery can ruin your gear.

🔋 Need help picking the right LiPo battery?
Explore our high-performance, RC-grade LiPo batteries with the ideal C ratings for every need — [Shop Now].