RC Battery Runtime Calculator
Estimate how long a battery lasts at a given average current, with a usable-capacity reserve.
Battery & Load
You set this — e.g. 0.8 keeps a 20% reserve for LiPo health.
Result
Estimated runtime
9.6min
at 0.80 usable capacity
Ideal runtime
12.0min
Estimated = ideal × your usable fraction. Not a universal reserve recommendation.
Formula
- 1.
Ideal Runtime (min) = Capacity (mAh) / (1000 × Current (A)) × 60 - 2.
Estimated Runtime = Ideal × Usable Capacity Fraction
Worked example
- 1.Inputs: 5000 mAh, 25 A average, 0.8 usable.
- 2.Ideal = 5000 / (1000 × 25) × 60 = 12 min; estimated = 9.6 min.
Assumptions and limits
- Driving style, temperature and pack age change real runtime.
- Calibrate the average current from logged runs.
Related tools
Guides and concepts
FAQ
What usable fraction should I pick?
A 0.8 reserve is a common LiPo practice, but verify against your pack manufacturer guidance — the tool accepts whatever you set.
Assumptions
- Constant average current.
- The usable fraction is user-chosen or explicitly stated — not claimed to suit every battery.