The effect of weight on the flight time of a micro quadcopter like a 65mm Tiny Whoop is significant but not necessarily linear, as it depends on various factors such as the power and efficiency of the motors, the aerodynamics, and the flying style. In general, adding weight to a micro quadcopter will reduce flight time because the motors have to work harder to lift the additional mass. The reduction in flight time due to each additional gram of weight will not be constant and can vary.
As a rough estimate, for small drones like Tiny Whoops, adding around 1 gram of weight might reduce the flight time by somewhere in the range of 5-15 seconds, assuming constant flying conditions and style. Please note that this is a very rough estimate and can vary greatly depending on various factors. Additionally, the effect of added weight on flight time might not be linear; adding the first gram might have a different effect compared to adding another gram when the quadcopter is already carrying extra weight. For the best performance, it’s advisable to keep the weight as low as possible while still meeting your requirements for battery capacity and flight time. Sometimes, experimenting with different batteries and weights can help in finding the optimal setup for your specific quadcopter and flying preferences.
The relationship between battery capacity (mAh), weight, and flight time is complex and depends on various factors including the efficiency of the motors, aerodynamics, and the discharge rate of the battery. Let’s try to give you a rough idea. Note that this is a generalized estimation and it’s always best to experiment with your specific setup to find the optimal configuration.
In general, small LiPo batteries used in micro quadcopters like Tiny Whoops have an energy density of around 150-200 mAh per gram. This means that for every additional gram of weight, you would theoretically need to increase the battery capacity by approximately 150-200 mAh to maintain the same energy-to-weight ratio.
Maintaining the same energy-to-weight ratio doesn’t necessarily translate directly into maintaining the same flight time. This is because as the battery gets larger, the efficiency might change due to various factors like the increased weight causing the motors to work harder. So, while adding roughly 150-200mAh per additional gram might be a starting point, it is not a guarantee for maintaining the same flight time. Additionally, there are practical limits to how large you can make the battery before it becomes too heavy for the quadcopter to lift efficiently.
In practice, pilots of micro quadcopters like Tiny Whoops often find a sweet spot in battery size that balances weight, capacity, and flight time. This usually involves some experimentation with different batteries and configurations. Keep in mind that there will be a point of diminishing returns, where adding more battery capacity will not significantly increase flight time due to the added weight.
For a 65mm Tiny Whoop, which is typically a very small and lightweight micro quadcopter, the choice of battery size is critical in achieving a good balance between flight time and performance. Generally, for a 65mm frame, people tend to use batteries in the range of 250mAh to 450mAh. Here are some common considerations:
- 250-300mAh: These are lightweight and offer a good balance between performance and flight time. They are good for indoor flying where agility and a lightweight setup are important. You can expect around 3-5 minutes of flight time depending on your flying style.
- 350-450mAh: These will give you slightly longer flight times but at the cost of added weight. They are still viable for a 65mm Tiny Whoop but might reduce the agility a bit. Suitable if you are looking for a bit more flight time and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of performance.
- High-Voltage LiPo Batteries (LiHV): These batteries can be charged to a higher voltage (4.35V per cell compared to the standard 4.20V) and can provide a bit more power and slightly longer flight times. They are available in similar capacities.
Remember that longer flight time isn’t always the best goal, as the added weight from a bigger battery can make the quadcopter less agile and responsive. Depending on your priorities (agility vs. flight time), you might opt for a slightly smaller or larger battery.
Also, pay attention to the discharge rate (C-rating) of the battery. A higher discharge rate can deliver power more efficiently, which might be beneficial for performance, especially in maneuvers that require sudden bursts of power.
Always make sure that the battery you choose can physically fit into the frame and that the connector is compatible with your Tiny Whoop.
- A 150 mAh battery could weigh around 4 grams.
- A 300 mAh battery might weigh around 8 grams.
- A 600 mAh battery might weigh around 15 grams.
Please keep in mind that these are rough examples and actual weights and capacities can vary. If you have a specific battery in mind, the manufacturer’s specifications or product datasheet would be the most accurate source for information regarding its capacity and weight.
