Nick Burns compares BetaFPV’s new Lava II 320mAh cells against the original Lava line to see if the green-labelled upgrade actually delivers extra runtime and punch.
What was on the bench
Two groups of 1S micro batteries faced off: the original Lava series and the new Lava II with a green label claiming 320mAh and a 95C rating versus the older 75C label.
Why these tests matter
Labels sell confidence, but C ratings rarely predict real performance across brands. Practical pilots want consistent weight, fit, and marginal extra flight time.
Weight checks — readout and reality
Nick recorded scale readouts around the 804 to 814 marks on several 320mAh Lava II packs and similar numbers for the original 300s. The spread was negligible.
Dimensions — barely any change
Measurements for width, thickness and length returned values within a hair’s breadth of each other. The new label did not bring a bulk penalty.
Flight method — simple, repeatable, human
The flight test uses a consistent hoop and a punch-out routine. Burns counts “one Mississippi” per punch to keep throttle bursts steady and lines up first frames at full throttle for timing.
Flight results — numbers that matter
Lava II packs returned roughly 255 seconds in the full-throttle punch test versus about 235 seconds for the originals. That equates to one extra counted punch-out and about 20 seconds of flight.
Consistency checks — avoid cherry-picking
The test used three battery pairs and matched single batteries between comparisons to prevent mixing results. Burns intentionally avoided stitching clips from multiple cells into one winner.
C-rating and parts provenance
BetaFPV’s new label claims 95C, up from 75C on the originals. Burns notes many 1S brands source from a handful of manufacturers, so label changes can reflect rebranding or updated cell chemistry.
Longevity remains to be proven
Short-term extra capacity appears real, but cycle life and long-term reliability require months of charge cycles and field use. That data is not yet available.
Practical advice for pilots who want to test their own packs
Anyone can perform a useful, low-tech comparison. Use a consistent rig, count identical throttle bursts, and record full-flight times to the point you start returning to land.
Suggested checklist: weigh each pack, note dimensions, perform three matched flights per pack, and average the results. A cheap wattmeter or a capacity checker helps if available.
What the numbers likely mean for flying
An extra 20 seconds and one punch-out matters in close races and skirmishes. For casual indoor sessions, the improvement is noticeable but not revolutionary.
Where to buy and transparency
BetaFPV supplied review samples, but Burns conducted the tests independently. Packs will ship through unmanned tech UK
FAQ
Do the new Lava II packs actually hold 320mAh?
Measured flight time and marginally higher performance suggest the labelled 320mAh is plausible. Exact capacity needs a calibrated capacity meter to confirm.
Is the higher C rating relevant for 1S micro quads?
C ratings help compare within the same label but do not guarantee performance. Real-world gains depend on cell chemistry and discharge behaviour, not just the printed C.
Will these batteries fit existing frames and clips?
Measurements were effectively identical between versions. Expect the same fit for most micro frames and straps without modification.
How to perform a basic runtime test at home?
Use a standard hoop or arena, perform identical punch-outs, mark first frame at 100% throttle, and time until the pilot returns to neutral. Repeat and average three runs.
Analysis and final verdict
Nick’s tests suggest the Lava II 320mAh packs offer a modest but repeatable advantage over original Lava cells. The difference is real, but not dramatic.
Early adopters will enjoy slightly longer airtime and one extra punch in aggressive sessions. Pilots chasing long-term value should wait for cycle-life data.
Short win: Lava II packs delivered about 20 extra seconds and one more punch-out.Fit and weight: Dimensions and scale readouts are essentially unchanged.Label caution: New C rating looks better on paper—real gains depend on manufacturing and chemistry.
Takeaway
New Lava II 320mAh packs show measurable, repeatable extra runtime.Physical fit and weight remain virtually identical to originals.One extra punch-out per flight can sway tight runs, but longevity remains unknown at this stage.
This article was based from the video Battery Showdown: Stock vs High-Performance Cells // New Lava II 320mah 1s Battery // Comparision
