Knowing the difference between a C4 battery and a C8 battery before purchasing is important. This article will explain the differences between C4 and C8 batteries.
Both C4 and C8 batteries are great choices and are commonly used. Depending on your needs, you can choose the right one for you.
Both the C4 and C8 batteries are types of C batteries. The biggest difference between them is the time it takes for them to be fully charged and how long it takes for them to drain.
What is a C battery?
C batteries are a very common battery size used in many different portable devices. They are dry cell batteries meaning they use an electrolyte in the form of a paste instead of a liquid. The advantage being they are less likely to leak.
C batteries are also called R14 batteries as designated by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and are a popular choice for portable devices as they tend to have a longer lifespan than other batteries. Common devices that use C batteries include:
- Flashlights
- Toys
- Musical instruments
- Radios
- Smoke alarms
C batteries are available as standard (non-rechargeable) or chargeable types.
Are all C batteries the same?
C batteries have a standard size of 1.03 inches in diameter and 1.97 inches tall. They weigh about 65 grams or 2.29 ounces.
Although C batteries are the same size, they can be purchased in different types including:
- C2
- C4
- C8
- C12
- C14
The “C” of the battery refers to its rating. Depending on the amount of current the battery can produce over a period of time, the battery will be given a rating. For example, 1A, 2A etc. Each rating will have a different charge and discharge rate.
A C battery has the power of 1Ah. Meaning a C4 battery has a maximum output of 4A. A C8 battery has a maximum output of 8A.
It’s important to know that C4 and C8 batteries have different uses. Portable devices are meant to work with either battery but not both. Make sure to have the proper battery for your device.
How long does a C battery last?
A C battery is known to last longer than other battery types making them hugely popular. On average, a C battery will last more than 18 hours. This will depend on the use of the battery, the capacity of the battery, and the power consumption of the device being powered by the battery.
Difference between a C4 and C8 battery
The following table will highlight the differences between a C4 and C8 battery.
| C4 Battery | C8 Battery |
|---|---|
| 4A Maximum output | 8A Maximum output |
| Less lifespan | Longer lifespan |
| Longer charge time | Less charge time |
| faster discharge | Slower discharge |
| Less heat dissipation | More heat dissipation |
| Used in devices with a high drain rate | Best suited for high drain rate devices |
| Less expensive | More expensive |
How long does a C4 battery last?
You can expect a C4 battery to last over 18 hours.
How long does a C8 battery last?
You can expect a C8 battery to last over 18 hours.
How long does it take to charge a C4 battery?
A C4 battery will take around 15 minutes to fully charge with a moderate discharge time.
How long does it take to charge a C8 battery?
A C8 battery will take less than 15 minutes to charge but longer to discharge.
How long will a C4 or C8 battery last in storage?
You can expect either a C4 or C8 battery to last around 5 years if left in storage unused.