If you are new to the world of unmanned aerial vehicles, you may look to compare 4s vs 6s FPV drones. Many of the best drones, after all, feature one of these two metrics. So what are the key differences between these two types of drones and which should you purchase? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- FPV drones, otherwise known as first-person view drones, ship with a variety of battery types, including 4S batteries and 6S batteries, to power Kv motors.
- 6S LiPo batteries include two additional cells, allowing them to fly longer per charge than 4S batteries as 6S is a high-capacity battery.
- 6S batteries are more expensive than 4S batteries but allow for increased longevity due to a lower amp draw, reduced power consumption, and lower battery voltage.
Drone 4S vs 6S
The primary difference between these two drones is the included batteries and related ranges if you are looking for the best long-range drone. Both of these drone types offer a first-person view and controller scheme, which may lead to comparing FPV vs GPS drones. The differences can be subtle, as in the case of comparing the DJI Mavic 2 vs the Mavic 3, or they can be more readily apparent.
Insider Tip
Make sure to keep an eye on battery life whenever you are using your preferred drone.
Here is how the integrated batteries of these two drone types break down, which should be helpful information if you are wondering what drones are used in DRL (Drone Racing League.)
Flight Time
A 6S battery features two additional cells when compared to a 4S battery. This, obviously, translates to longer flight times, a better maximum range, and fewer trips to the power outlet. The actual numbers here depend largely on the make and model of any particular drone equipped with a 6S or 4S battery but expect a ten to 20 percent jump in flight time per charge when using a drone outfitted with a 6S battery.
Longevity
6S batteries tend to last slightly longer than 4S batteries before needing a replacement. This is due to the fact that 6S batteries boast a lower amp draw when compared to 4S batteries. This means that the battery stays cooler during use, which translates to fewer repair and maintenance issues and, as such, a beefier lifespan for drone pilots. So if you want your battery to remain functional for the entire life of the drone itself, go with a 6S battery pack.
Cost
As you’d expect, 6S batteries cost more than 4S batteries, leading to increased costs for purchasing drones equipped with the former over the latter. If you are on a budget, go for a drone with a 4S battery or wait for sales that allow for purchasing a 6S drone for a cheaper-than-average price.
F.A.Q.S
Do I still believe 6S is the future?
6S batteries are certainly future-proof for now, but advancements in both batteries and Kv motors may change this in the coming years.
How much capacity do I need?
This depends on personal preference via motor outputs and your motor winding, in addition to the current draw of your battery. It also hinges on the energy demands of your flight controller.
How to maintain the LiPo battery?
Maintaining LiPo voltage batteries combines keeping an eye on watt-hours, trying not to stress the Kv motors, and integrating extra cells when necessary.
STAT: When you get a new lipo battery it will already come partially charged. This partial charge is called the Storage Voltage. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://thedroneracingleague.com/
- https://shop.iflight-rc.com/nazgul5-v2-4s-6s-fpv-drone-bnf-pro1306
- https://geprc.com/product/geprc-cinelog35-analog-cinewhoop-fpv-drone-4s-6s/r
- https://www.hglrc.com/products/hglrc-petrel-120x-3-inch-toothpick-machine-fpv-racing-drone-zeus5-aio-flight-controller-1202-5-motor-vtx-350mw4s-6s
