Overview
The Spektrum 11.1V 850mAh 3S 30C Smart G2 LiPo Battery represents a significant advancement in portable power technology for RC enthusiasts across the UK and beyond. Whether you're piloting a lightweight RC aeroplane, driving a competitive RC car, or exploring the possibilities of small-scale electric RC models, this intelligent battery system delivers reliable, consistent performance whilst removing the complexity traditionally associated with LiPo battery management. Spektrum's Smart G2 technology has revolutionised how RC pilots and drivers approach battery charging, monitoring and storage, making this pack ideal for anyone seeking a hassle-free power solution that grows smarter with every flight or run.
Unlike conventional lithium polymer batteries, the Spektrum Smart G2 LiPo comes equipped with an integrated microchip that communicates directly with compatible Spektrum Smart chargers, automating the entire charging process and eliminating guesswork. This is particularly valuable for RC enthusiasts in the UK who want to maximise battery longevity, improve performance consistency, and ensure their packs remain in optimal condition between uses. The innovative IC2 connector system means balance charging occurs through a single data wire connection—no separate balance lead required—making the whole setup more streamlined and user-friendly than traditional 3S LiPo batteries.
Built with performance and durability in mind, this 850mAh capacity pack delivers 9.4 watt-hours of power across three lithium polymer cells, offering sufficient energy for extended RC sessions whilst maintaining a lightweight profile. The 30C discharge rate provides the punch needed for dynamic flying or driving, whilst the intelligent storage discharge system automatically protects your investment by maintaining safe voltage levels during periods of inactivity.
Key Features
- Smart G2 Technology with Integrated Microchip — Each battery contains its own memory microchip that stores critical information including battery brand, type, capacity, C-rating, charge and discharge cycle counts, cell voltages, temperature data and internal resistance measurements, allowing your Spektrum Smart charger to deliver perfectly calibrated charging parameters automatically without any manual configuration required.
- Single IC2 Connection—No Balance Lead Needed — The innovative IC2 connector integrates both power and balancing communication into one connection, eliminating the need for a separate balance lead entirely and reducing cable clutter whilst ensuring proper cell balancing during every charge cycle.
- Automatic Smart Auto Storage Discharge — Factory-programmed to discharge automatically to a safe storage voltage of 3.90V after 72 hours of inactivity, this feature delivers three times faster discharge rates than the previous G1 generation, protecting cell health and extending the overall lifespan of your battery pack whilst requiring zero user intervention or manual storage procedures.
- Enhanced Heat Dissipation with Thicker Metal Side Plates — Internal metal side plates have been thickened to improve heat distribution during high-performance discharge cycles, protecting individual cells from excessive temperatures and providing additional mechanical protection against punctures and impact damage during rough landings or demanding driving sessions.
- Data-Rich Monitoring and Error Logging — Beyond standard battery metrics, the Smart G2 system maintains a comprehensive error log tracking over-charge, over-discharge and over-temperature incidents, providing you with transparent information about battery health and helping you identify any patterns that might require attention or battery replacement.
- Faster Discharge Rate Up to 1.5A — Storage discharge operates at up to 1.5A, which is significantly faster than previous Smart battery generations, ensuring your pack reaches safe storage voltage more quickly and spending less time in partially discharged states where damage risk is highest.
- Backward Compatible EC Connectors — Whilst featuring the advanced IC2 connector, these Smart G2 batteries remain compatible with older EC3-equipped systems, providing flexibility if you need to use the pack with legacy equipment, though Smart chargers unlock all advanced features.
- Ideal for Aircraft, Cars and Beyond — Designed primarily for RC aircraft use but equally suitable for RC cars and other electric RC models, the 11.1V configuration and 850mAh capacity make this pack versatile enough for numerous ready-to-run RC platforms available in the UK market.
Technical Performance
The Spektrum Smart G2 3S LiPo delivers genuine 11.1V nominal voltage across three cells (3.7V per cell chemistry), with a total capacity of 850mAh providing 9.4 watt-hours of usable energy. The 30C continuous discharge rating enables discharge currents up to 25.5 amperes, whilst the maximum charge rate of 4.25A allows for rapid replenishment when time is limited. At just 75 grams and measuring 65mm in length, 30mm in width and 23mm in height, this pack offers an excellent power-to-weight ratio particularly valued in RC aircraft applications where every gram impacts performance. The soft-case construction keeps weight minimal whilst the reinforced internal metal side plates provide structural protection without adding significant mass. The integrated Spektrum Smart charge protection circuitry prevents over-charging, over-discharging and thermal runaway conditions, eliminating the need for separate protection devices. Normal charging current is rated at 0.85A, though the battery can accept up to 4.25A maximum charge rates depending on your charger capabilities and user preferences. Unlike many RC car UK and RC aeroplane power systems, the Smart G2 architecture means you're not wrestling with multiple balance lead connectors or manual charging parameter entry—the battery and charger communicate automatically to establish ideal charging protocols based on your pack's individual characteristics and history.
What's in the Box
- 1x Spektrum 11.1V 850mAh 3S 30C Smart G2 LiPo Battery with IC2 connector
What You Need to Complete
- Spektrum Smart Charger (required—Smart G2 batteries cannot be charged with conventional LiPo chargers)
- RC device compatible with 11.1V 3S LiPo batteries
- Optional: EC3 or EC5 adapter cables if using with legacy systems lacking IC2 compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Spektrum Smart G2 technology and why do I need it? — Spektrum Smart G2 is an intelligent battery management system that stores charging parameters, battery health data and performance history in an integrated microchip. When connected to a compatible Spektrum Smart charger, your battery communicates all necessary information automatically, eliminating manual setup and delivering optimised charging every time. This means safer charging, longer battery life, better performance consistency and genuine convenience—especially valuable if you run multiple RC models that demand different charging approaches.
- Can I use this battery with my existing charger? — No, Smart G2 batteries require a Spektrum Smart charger to function properly and access all advanced features. Conventional LiPo chargers cannot read the battery's microchip data and cannot properly balance charge through the IC2 connector. However, Spektrum Smart chargers are widely available and represent an investment that benefits every Smart battery you own.
- What does the auto storage discharge do and why is it important? — After 72 hours of inactivity, the battery automatically discharges itself to a safe storage voltage of 3.90V per cell (11.7V total for a 3S pack). This dramatically extends battery lifespan because LiPo cells stored at full charge degrade rapidly. The Smart G2 system performs this automatically at 1.5A discharge rate, completing the process much faster than previous generations. You can adjust these settings via your Smart charger if preferred, but the factory defaults provide excellent battery longevity.
- How long will this battery power my RC plane or car? — Runtime depends entirely on your specific RC model's power consumption. The 850mAh capacity provides sufficient energy for typical small RC aircraft (15-30 minutes typical flight time) or RC cars in basher or racing duty. Heavier models drawing more current will see shorter runtimes, whilst efficient designs might achieve extended flight or run times. Your specific RC platform manual provides the best runtime estimates.
- What is the difference between Smart G1 and Smart G2 batteries? — Smart G2 represents the second generation and brings several improvements: the integrated microchip enables single-connector IC2 charging without separate balance leads, storage discharge operates three times faster (up to 1.5A versus previous 0.5A), thicker internal metal side plates improve heat dissipation and durability, and the overall design is more robust. If you're upgrading from older Smart batteries, G2 packs work with newer Spektrum Smart chargers and offer superior reliability.
- Is this battery suitable for beginners? — Absolutely. Smart G2 batteries are specifically designed to simplify battery management for all experience levels. Beginners benefit enormously from automatic charging parameter loading, no-fail balance charging through a single connector, and automatic storage discharge that requires zero thought. If you're new to RC hobbies in the UK and seeking a foolproof power solution, this is an excellent choice—just ensure you purchase a compatible Spektrum Smart charger.
- What safety features does this battery include? — The Spektrum Smart G2 includes integrated charge protection circuitry that prevents over-charging, over-discharging and thermal runaway. The battery's microchip monitors temperature continuously, logs any anomalies, and communicates warnings to your charger. Additionally, the soft-case construction with reinforced internal metal plates provides impact protection. The automatic storage discharge prevents the voltage levels where cells are most vulnerable to damage.
- How do I know if my battery is healthy? — Connect it to your Spektrum Smart charger and review the information displayed. The charger shows cycle counts, cell voltages, error logs and other diagnostic data stored in the battery's microchip. If you see accumulating over-heat, over-discharge or over-charge incidents, those point toward specific issues that may warrant battery retirement.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the SPM 11.1V 850mAh 3S 30C Smart LiPo Battery G2: IC2 O-SPMX8503S30 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
