Understanding 4.8V Battery: A Guide for Beginners and Buyers

By Ufine, Updated on June 11, 2025

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The world of batteries can be surprisingly complex. But understanding the specifics—like what a 4.8V battery is, how it works, and how it fits into your application—is key to better product performance, safety, and innovation. If you’re an engineer developing compact electronics, a hobbyist upgrading your RC models, or a business sourcing reliable energy solutions, this guide offers a comprehensive deep dive into 4.8V battery technology.

Part 1. What is a 4.8V battery?

A 4.8V battery is typically a battery pack consisting of four individual 1.2V cells connected in series. This gives a total nominal voltage of 4.8 volts. These cells can be based on various chemistries, including:

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH)
Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd)
Custom lithium-ion packs (though less common due to standard lithium cell voltages)

The 4.8V voltage is considered ideal for a broad range of medium-power electronics. It strikes a balance between safety, efficiency, and portability.

It’s not just the voltage that defines a battery, but the chemistry, capacity, discharge rate, internal resistance, and application that matter just as much.

Part 2. Types of 4.8V batteries

A. NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride)

NiMH is the most common choice for modern 4.8V battery packs. Why?

Higher energy density than NiCd
Environmentally safer (no cadmium)
No memory effect under normal usage
Supports 300–500 full charge-discharge cycles

B. NiCd (Nickel-Cadmium)

Though older, NiCd still holds a place in specific use cases:

Tolerates extreme temperatures well
Offers a higher discharge rate, suitable for motors
But comes with a memory effect and toxic waste concerns

C. Custom Lithium-Ion 4.8V Packs

Most lithium-ion batteries have nominal voltages of 3.7V per cell, so a 4.8V lithium pack is often custom-made using regulated BMS and parallel/series configurations. These are:

Lightweight
Space-saving
Great for advanced electronics or wearable devices

NiMH Battery vs Li-Ion Battery vs NiCad Battery: How are they different?

D. Physical Formats

Flat Pack: Ideal for thin devices
Stick Pack: Used in RC toys and hand tools
Cylindrical Pack: Preferred in retrofitting and DIY applications

When off-the-shelf options don’t fit, manufacturers like Ufine Battery can custom-engineer 4.8V batteries in varied shapes, sizes, and specifications, including high-rate, ultra-thin, or high-temperature models.

Looking for tailored solutions? Contact Ufine Battery for custom 4.8V lithium battery design.

Part 3. Common uses of 4.8V batteries

You’ll find 4.8V batteries powering a wide range of devices, including:

RC cars, helicopters, boats (thanks to high discharge needs)
Cordless phones and walkie-talkies
Electric toothbrushes and shavers
Medical devices (low-power diagnostic or monitoring equipment)
Solar-powered lighting systems
Robotic kits and Arduino projects

The key to its popularity is the voltage—it’s just high enough to power motors and low enough to keep designs compact and safe.

Part 4. 4.8V battery vs. similar voltages

4.8V vs. 3.7V

3.7V is standard for single-cell Li-ion or LiPo
4.8V allows for more power output—useful when driving motors or LEDs

4.8V vs. 6V

6V systems are stronger but may damage circuits designed for 4.8V
More battery cells = larger physical size
4.8V is more compact, safer for precision electronics

When choosing between voltages, always match device voltage requirements to avoid underperformance or permanent damage.

Part 5. Advantages and disadvantages of 4.8V batteries

Advantages:

Balanced voltage ideal for moderate-power applications
Available in rechargeable and disposable formats
Wide compatibility with consumer electronics
Customizable packs available
Long cycle life for NiMH types

Disadvantages:

NiCd packs are toxic and outdated
Voltage drop under heavy load if capacity is too low
Not ideal for high-voltage applications
Charger compatibility must be ensured

Part 6. Key features to look for in a good 4.8V battery

When selecting a 4.8V battery, consider these critical specifications:

Battery Chemistry: NiMH is preferred for reliability and safety. Lithium-based if weight and compactness are critical.
Capacity (mAh): Choose based on application. High-drain devices need 1500mAh+, while sensors or lights may use 600–1000mAh.
Discharge Rate (C-rating): Defines how quickly the battery can deliver current. For RC devices, a high C-rate (10C or more) is vital.
Operating Temperature Range: Some applications (outdoors, industrial) demand resistance to temperature extremes.
Cycle Life: A battery should support at least 300 cycles. Ufine Battery offers options with 500+ cycles for commercial use.
Physical Size: The pack must fit your device. Check LxWxH and shape.
Connector Compatibility: Ensure the connector matches your product (e.g., JST, Molex, Tamiya).

Tip: Always choose high-quality batteries from certified manufacturers like Ufine Battery, known for strict quality control and custom engineering.

Part 7. How to charge a 4.8V battery safely

Charging a 4.8V battery safely protects both the battery and the user. Here’s how:

Use the Correct Charger

NiMH chargers for NiMH batteries only
NiCd chargers for NiCd only
Never use a lithium charger on NiMH/NiCd

Observe Charging Voltage

Standard charge voltage for 4.8V is 5.6V–6.0V
Avoid overvoltage to prevent swelling or leakage

Monitor Charging Time

Smart chargers stop automatically. Manual ones must be timed.
Charging typically takes 2–6 hours depending on capacity

Prevent Overheating

Don’t charge in enclosed or hot environments
Always allow batteries to cool after use before charging

Storage After Charging

Store in cool, dry places
Partial charge (50%) is best for long-term storage

Ufine Battery also provides matching charging solutions with overcharge and thermal protection circuits.

Part 8. Final thoughts

The 4.8V battery remains a versatile and reliable solution for electronics, toys, DIY systems, and commercial devices. Its voltage range is safe, efficient, and suitable for medium-powered tasks.

But remember: not all 4.8V batteries are the same. You must choose the right chemistry, size, capacity, and discharge rate. And when custom solutions are needed, working with a proven manufacturer makes all the difference.

Ufine Battery, a well-known Chinese lithium battery supplier, specializes in custom 4.8V batteries of all shapes and specifications. Whether you need thin, flexible lithium packs or robust NiMH for industrial tools, Ufine ensures performance, safety, and full certification support.