Wondering whether a LiPo vs NiMH airsoft battery is the better option for your gun?
It’s a switch a lot of airsoft players make when they want to upgrade their battery, but understandably, you want it to be the right one.
There are pros and cons to both LiPo and NiMH batteries, so it’s important to know what the differences are before making a decision.
We’ve made this simple airsoft battery comparison guide for LiPo and NiMH batteries, along with which guns they work best with, to help you see whether it’s worth making the change to a LiPo or sticking with your NiMH battery.
Key Points
- LiPo batteries deliver more power, faster trigger response, and longer run times, but need careful charging and handling.
- NiMH batteries are safer, cheaper, and easier to maintain (they’re ideal for beginners or standard AEGs).
- Choose LiPo for upgraded or high-performance airsoft guns; choose NiMH for reliability and simplicity.
- LiPo batteries must always be charged with a LiPo balance charger; never use a NiMH charger.
- For most players, 7.4V LiPo is the best upgrade option once your gun and wiring can safely handle it.
The Differences Between LiPo & NiMH Airsoft Batteries
As a quick run-down of the differences between LiPo vs NiMH batteries, we've broken it down into this table, so you can compare the two at a glance...
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What are NiMH Airsoft Batteries?
NiMH batteries, also known as Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries, are the most commonly used type of battery for airsoft guns.
They're also used in other electronic devices, such as remote-controlled cars and toys.
NiMH batteries are made up of individual cells, which are usually 1.2V each, and these cells can be arranged in series or parallel to achieve different voltages and capacities.
They're most commonly built-in packs of either 8 or 9 cells, which produce either 8.4V or 9.6V.
Often, gun manufacturers will include these batteries with their airsoft guns, but they can also be purchased separately.
NiMH Battery Connectors
There are also different connector types with NiMH batteries: Deans or Mini Tamiya.
NiMH batteries in airsoft typically come fitted with Mini Tamiya connectors, which are perfectly adequate for standard electric airsoft guns (AEGs) but have higher electrical resistance and can struggle under high current loads.
Deans connectors offer a tighter, more efficient connection with lower resistance, resulting in improved trigger response and more consistent power delivery.
The Pros & Cons of NiMH Airsoft Batteries
So, if that's the features of a NiMH battery, what are the pros and cons, the good and the bad, the advantages and disadvantages? Let's take a closer look…
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What Guns are NiMH Batteries Suitable For?
NiMH batteries are best suited for standard or entry-level AEGs and lightly upgraded electric guns.
In these weapons, they offer reliable power and easy maintenance, which makes them a safe choice for beginners.
They also perform well in stock rifles, SMGs, and rental guns, so they're also good for casual weekend players who aren't too concerned with higher performance.
However, NiMH batteries are less effective for high-rate-of-fire or heavily upgraded builds, where the higher discharge rates and lighter weight batteries will deliver better performance.
What are LiPo Airsoft Batteries?
LiPo batteries, or Lithium-Ion Polymer batteries, often come in 7.4V LiPo and 11.1V LiPo configurations and are the main alternative to NiMH batteries for airsoft guns.
Many airsofters start with NiMH batteries and switch to LiPo because they're looking for more power (which is likely the reason you're here).
They are made with polymer electrolyte rather than liquid, making them more compact, lightweight, and versatile for those reasons.
But with more power comes more responsibility (excuse the Spider-Man reference).
LiPo batteries are more powerful than NiMH, so they need to be treated with care. This includes correct battery storage and handling, and you will need a proper charger specifically designed for LiPo batteries.
What Connectors Do LiPo Batteries Have?
Just like NiMH batteries, LiPo batteries can also have either a Deans or Mini Tamiya connector.
Deans connectors provide a tighter fit and lower electrical resistance, allowing for faster trigger response and more consistent power delivery, which is obviously ideal for upgraded AEGs.
Mini Tamiya connectors, on the other hand, are still common on beginner or stock setups, offering easier plug-and-play use but slightly reduced efficiency.
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The Pros & Cons of LiPo Airsoft Batteries
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Shop 7.4V LiPo Airsoft Batteries
What Guns are LiPo Batteries Suitable For?
LiPo batteries are most suitable for upgraded or high-performance AEGs where low internal resistance and high discharge are needed to maintain a consistent ROF and crisp trigger response.
They are less suitable for beginner airsoft players and those who prefer a low-maintenance battery.
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Conclusion: Is a LiPo or NiMH Better for Your Airsoft Gun?
The battery that's best for your airsoft gun is dependent on various factors, but, generally speaking, NiMH batteries are a good option for beginners or standard AEGs, and LiPo batteries are best suited to upgraded or high-performance AEGs.
If you’re still unsure, we’re always happy to help out our fellow airsofters. Drop us a message on our social media accounts, or send us an email, and we can advise whether a LiPo vs NiMH battery is the better option for your weapon.
Ready to upgrade your gun to a LiPo, or need a new NiMH battery for your gun?
Here at Socom, we stock a great range of both LiPo and NiMH airsoft batteries, all made by some of the best manufacturers in the industry.
You can view our range and shop online today, and enjoy our fast 1-2 day UK delivery!
