Not all airsoft batteries are created equal. In fact, there are some significant advantages (and drawbacks) associated with each of the different types.

Here are a few things you should know about each.

Li-Ion (Lithium-Ion) and LiPo (Lithium Polymer) Batteries

Some airsoft players prefer Li-Ion or LiPo batteries because they are very powerful, hold a strong charge, and enable high power and faster rates of fire.

LiPo and Li-Ion batteries also charge very quickly, which also makes them attractive. They also don’t fade, like NiCad batteries do (see below). They pretty much work until they stop, dead.

However, care must be used when handling and storing these batteries, as they can create fires if they are punctured or carelessly stored.

Also, never let a LiPo or Li-Ion remain flat for long – recharge it as soon as it dies, because if it is left flat for a prolonged period of time, it will probably never be able to hold a good charge again.

It’s also a good idea not to leave LiPo and Li-Ion batteries unattended while charging and to remove the batteries from the airsoft guns when not in use.

You must also remember that LiPo and Li-Ion batteries can only be charged using chargers made for them – other chargers will not detect when the battery is full and can damage it.

NiMH: Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries

Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries, which are available in a variety of different power and rating configurations, also come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

There are NiMH batteries available in block, stick, and crane-style shapes, among others. This makes these batteries fairly versatile.

NiMH batteries are good for beginners because they are very durable, difficult to break, and easy to care for. Though they’re usually more expensive than NiCad batteries, they’re generally more affordable than LiPo and Li-Ion batteries.

They’re also more popular than NiCad batteries because they’re usually more effective and a NiMH battery can usually hold more charge and deliver more power than a NiCad of the same size.

NiCad: Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

Last but not least, we have NiCad, or nickel-cadmium batteries, which are the “original” airsoft batteries, because they were the only rechargeable batteries available at the time when airsoft started to become popular.

The thing about NiCad batteries is that their biggest draw is probably affordability. They don’t hold charges as well as NiMH and lithium batteries, and they’re not as powerful. They are pretty tough, though.

One problem commonly associated with NiCad batteries is known as “memory.” Players report that NiCad batteries can hold smaller and smaller progressive charges until the battery goes “end-of-life.”

Because of this, players that use them usually run them completely down before recharging them.

All in all, although they are not as powerful, they are affordable and very durable.

Where Can You Find Airsoft Starter Kits and Batteries?

If you’re looking for an airsoft starter kit and want to upgrade your gun’s battery, we recommend a NiMH battery for beginners because they offer better performance than NiCad batteries but are not as difficult to handle, store, charge, and maintain as lithium batteries.

Also, be aware when shopping through airsoft starter kits and beginner gun kits as some kits may not come with the airsoft gun package.

If the package in question does not come with a battery, make sure you get a battery that is compatible with the airsoft gun.

Airsoft guns need specific batteries that deliver an appropriate voltage, and they must be the same size and shape, too. For instance, since some airsoft guns house the battery in the grip, it must be the right size and shape to fit in the battery compartment. Therefore, voltage alone does not guarantee a match.

Whether you’re shopping for airsoft starter kits or batteries, check out MiR Tactical online via the previous link.

They carry a huge collection of starter packages, beginner airsoft guns, and airsoft batteries, from the top brands, and their prices are the best in the industry, with no airsoft coupon code needed.

If you have any questions, contact them at 800-581-6620.