Hello, fellow drone pilots! In this post, I'll share my insights and experiences with various 1S PH2.0 batteries while flying a 75mm tinywhoop FPV drone. I've accumulated several weeks of flight time with each battery, except for one, which I flew only once.
(Source: Author's own - dog dental dents as evidence)
My primary drone is the EMax TinyHawk III Plus HDZero tinywhoop, a Bind-and-Fly (BNF) model with ELRS for the receiver. Featuring TH0802 II 15000KV motors, this 75mm class quad weighs 32g without a battery. The quad is stock, except for electrical tape around the canopy to secure camera screws and maintain better camera angle stability. The propellers and frame bear some battle scars from encounters with Miko, my enthusiastic dog, as evidenced in Miko vs Drone #3.
Here's a breakdown of my battery preferences based on flight performance and personal impressions, ranked accordingly. All of these batteries are LIPO HV (High Volt), so they charge to 4.35V instead of 4.20V. Please note that flight times are approximate and depend on flying style and conditions:
- EMax 650mAh: My top choice for both zip and flight duration, offering approximately 2:45 - 3:30 minutes of flight time. This battery also comes recommended by EMax.
- EMax 450mAh: Provides the most enjoyable experience for agile maneuvers, offering around 1:45 - 2:15 minutes of flight time.
- Gaoneng 850mAh: Offers good flight duration but feels heavier in flight, reducing agility and causing more prop wash. It's probably ideal for larger drones like an 85mm whoop. Flight times are around 4 minutes.
- Gaoneng 530mAh: Offers good speed but slightly shorter flight times compared to the EMax 450mAh. However, durability issues were encountered, with one battery failing after a couple of weeks, offering flight times around 1:30 to 2 minutes.
- Bonus - EMax 450mAh in 1S2P config: Despite the increased capacity, this configuration resulted in poor flight performance due to added weight, requiring higher throttle inputs during flight. Dreadful agility with flight times around 3:30 minutes. 1/10, would not recommend.
Regarding physical dimensions, the EMax 450, 650, and Gaoneng 530 are similar in width and length. The Gaoneng 530 is slightly thinner and feels lighter than the EMax 450. The EMax 650 is thicker than the 450, while the Gaoneng 850 is longer, preventing it from fitting into standard 1S PH2 battery cases. While the PH2 connector has drawbacks, such as wearing down over time, it remains the stock connector on the Tinyhawk III, influencing my choice of connector.
(Source: Author's own. Miko and Momo demand rewards for participating in the battery tests)
I hope you found the tests informative. It's little surprise the EMax batteries came out on top since they are the ones the drone is tuned for. As always, ymmv because your quad could be a different model, flight style different, even minor differences in the config - too many variables to count. However, this list might operate as a starting point.
Until next time, happy flying!