Some batteries clearly outperform others, and some fall short. In this speed-run comparison, I tested the SMC SRD V4 against the Zeee 4S 120C in my Limitless V1. Both packs were evaluated back-to-back to see how they performed under identical conditions, and I reviewed the data logs afterward to understand what was happening behind the scenes.
The SMC SRD V4 pack is know to be the top battery that I’ve tested on the channel. Where the Zeee pack has been measured up as the worst pack tested thus far. In this article, we will see how this translates to real world performance.
Test Conditions and Setup
I ran both batteries on the same road, using the same procedure as best as I could. This comparison represents real world conditions and is not done in a lab controlled environment with repeatability.
The car was sent out to a consistent distance so it would pass in front of me at full throttle for roughly one second before continuing down the path. GPS speed was recorded after each pass, and ESC data logs were collected to track voltage, current, and wattage.
Wind was a factor, blowing directly at the car with a slight crosswind. This affected handling and made keeping the car centered more challenging, especially during the SMC tests.
Performance Comparison
The SMC runs required a second attempt as I ran off the road in the first attempt. You can watch this in the video linked below. Fortunately, no damage occurred, and I was able to send the car back to the starting line again immediately. I made the pass again and this one was successful.
I swapped in the Zeee 4S 120C and repeated the same procedure. The difference was obvious during the run: the car sounded slower and visually carried less speed. Even with longer throttle time than the SMC run, the Zeee’s top speed was significantly lower from my perspective alone.
Here are the key differences between the two packs from this test that came from GPS and a data log:
The SMC delivered more current while maintaining higher voltage, translating to nearly double the wattage and a top-speed advantage of over 30 km/h. The Zeee was consistent and reliable but could not match the SMC’s output.
Challenges Behind the Testing
This speed-run comparison wasn’t without issues. I experienced a crash earlier in the week that required replacement parts. During the SMC runs, I drifted toward the grass and had a small tumble. Another battery I tested lost a cell mid-run — something I’ve never seen before.
I’ve tested six batteries in total. This article focused on two. The full comparison of all six packs is coming next.
Final Thought
Battery testing isn’t just about numbers — it’s about trust and confidence when you hit full throttle. The SMC SRD V4 proved it can deliver extreme current, maintain voltage, and maximize speed in a Limitless V1. The Zeee 4S 120C simply can’t match the SMC’s peak power. For anyone chasing top-end performance, understanding the real-world differences like these is essential.
If you’d like full access to the raw data and comparison sheets from my battery tests, consider joining my Patreon community. Tier 1 members get access to the same RC LiPo calculator used in these reviews.