SMC vs Zeee LiPo — Best and Worst RC Batteries Compared

I compare the SMC vs Zeee LiPo by testing them under identical conditions. Both packs have similar rated capacity, but the SMC SRD V3 delivers much more consistent real-world performance.

SMC SRD V3 5300 mAh 250C
Zeee 5200mAh

I take fully balance batteries and run them on the same equipment at the same ambient temperature. I record voltage, current, wattage, and usable capacity throughout the discharge cycle to show the true difference in performance.

Wattage Output Over Time

Test PointSMC SRD V3 (W)Zeee (W)
@ Max Current18111354
10 s17021217
30 s16091210
@ LV Cutoff12801160

The SMC SRD V3 maintains higher power throughout the run. The Zeee drops quickly after just a few seconds. Wattage differences range from 25% to 29% across the discharge cycle. It’s quit impressive to see the massive loss in wattage that you would have at all points in this chart and graph below. Keep in mind that the data was pulled from 4 different time periods in the load test. This load test places 105A on the battery and the SMC handles it well where the Zeee really struggles. We will talk more about the last data point where wattage at the low voltage cutoff is taken near the end of the article.

Wattage - SMC SRD V3 vs Zeee

Voltage and Current Comparison

Test PointSMC SRD V3 Voltage (V)Zeee Voltage (V)SMC Current (A)Zeee Current (A)
Max15.3514.0111896.6
10 s14.913.4111490.7
30 s14.7513.5610889
Cutoff~13~1397.788.1

The SMC SRD V3 holds voltage and current consistently, allowing steady wattage. The Zeee struggles with voltage and current drops, causing significantly lower power output. You can see how the Zeee battery could only do a max of 96.6A where the SMC was a lot higher at 118A. To put this in to perspective in an RC vehicles, the RC vehicle would see a drastic drop in its top speed performance using Zeee packs.

Usable Capacity

BatteryUsable Capacity (mAh)
SMC SRD V34804
Zeee872

The SMC SRD V3 delivers nearly its full rated capacity, while the Zeee reaches the voltage cutoff much too soon cutting its useable capacity under 105A to 872mAh.

Thermal-Limited Capacity for Zeee at Lower Loads

Load (A)Usable Capacity (mAh)
802860
703700
654037
604279

Even at lower currents, the Zeee hits thermal limits, showing that its real-world C-rating is far lower than advertised. The SMC SRD V3 handles all tested currents without thermal issues.

Summary Table

MetricSMC SRD V3 5300mAh 4SZeee 5200mAh 4S
Max Wattage1811 W1354 W
10 s Wattage1702 W1217 W
30 s Wattage1609 W1210 W
Cutoff Wattage1280 W1160 W
Usable Capacity4804 mAh872 mAh
Thermal LimitNoneReached at 60A
Voltage Sag15.35 → ~1314.01 → ~13

Final Thoughts

When comparing the SMC vs Zeee LiPo, the SMC SRD V3 clearly outperforms the Zeee in every measurable category. It delivers more power, maintains higher voltage, and provides higher usable capacity. The Zeee overheats quickly and cannot sustain high-current loads, making it unsuitable for high-demand RC applications. Even a load of 60A average is a struggle for this poor performing LiPo. Choosing the SMC SRD V3 ensures reliable performance and better value for your money when performance is key.

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.

Scroll to Top