How to Power ESP32 and Arduino Projects on LiPo Power
Power an ESP32 or Arduino project from a 3.7 V 3000 mAh 1S LiPo pack with a JST 1.25 plug. Or use a USB-C battery module with 5 V and 3.3 V outputs. The pack suits boards with an SH1.25-2 battery plug. The module suits boards that take USB or header power. This guide covers plugs, rails, and current limits.
Quick facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| 1S pack | 3.7 V, 3000mAh, JST 1.25 plug, 4-pack |
| Pack cutoffs | Charge 4.2 V, discharge 3.0 V |
| Pack current | 0.6 A recommended, 1.5 A max |
| Module battery | 1200mAh, 4.44 Wh, USB-C recharge |
| Module outputs | 5 V / 1.2 A, 3.3 V / 800 mA |
| Module charge time | About 1 hour over USB-C |
| Module board size | 56 x 40 mm |
Which plug does the 1S pack use?
The 1S pack uses a JST 1.25 plug, type SH1.25-2, with two pins.
The listing names ESP32 LoRa V3 and V4 boards, Wireless Tracker boards, and Mesh Node T114 and T096 boards.
Check that your board uses an SH1.25-2 battery plug before ordering, since plug types vary by board.
Each pack has a built-in protection board that cuts off charging at 4.2 V and stops discharge at 3.0 V.
What voltage rails does the USB-C module give?
The module gives 5 V at 1.2 A through the header and the USB-A port, and 3.3 V at 800 mA through the header.
A JST PH2.0 connector gives direct battery output, and the built-in battery holds 1200mAh at 3.7 V.
USB-C pass-through mode powers the project from USB with the battery disconnected, so bench work does not wear the battery.
The module does not support UPS operation, so it will not hold a project up through a power cut.
How much current can each option supply?
The 1S pack recommends 0.6 A for charge and discharge, with a 1.5 A maximum, as the listing states.
The module 5 V rail supplies up to 1.2 A, and the 3.3 V rail supplies up to 800 mA.
Match the rail to the board: USB or 5 V header power for most dev boards, and the 3.3 V rail for 3.3 V logic.
Do not push current or voltage past the rated range, or the pack protection board can be damaged.
What did we check on the bench?
We matched every price in this guide to the live store price on November 12, 2026.
We checked the pack listing states 3050mAh typical capacity at a 0.2C discharge, with cutoffs at 4.2 V and 3.0 V.
We checked the module listing states a 56 x 40 mm board, about 1 hour of USB-C charging, and no UPS support.
We checked the module gauge shows charge at 25, 50, 75, and 100 percent on four LEDs.
How the options compare
| Option | Capacity | Outputs | Plug | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1S LiPo pack, 4-pack | 3000mAh, 3.7 V | Direct battery, JST 1.25 | SH1.25-2 | $35.99 |
| USB-C LiPo module | 1200mAh, 4.44 Wh | 5 V / 1.2 A, 3.3 V / 800 mA | USB-C, USB-A, header | $14.99 |
| ESP32 DevKit V1 board | Board only, no battery | USB powered | Micro USB or Type-C | $11.99 |
How do you power a maker project from a battery in 5 steps?
- Match the power option to the board: SH1.25-2 plug for the pack, or USB and header rails for the module.
- Check the voltage rail and current limit against what the board and its sensors draw.
- Connect the pack plug or the module output, then switch the module on with its ON/OFF switch.
- Check the module LED gauge, or check the pack voltage, before you start a long run.
- Recharge over USB-C for the module, and store LiPo packs at storage voltage between projects.
Parts that fit this guide
In-stock parts ship from the New York, USA warehouse in 1-2 business days. Prices below are the live store prices we verified on November 12, 2026.
3.7V 3000mAh LiPo Battery, 1S, JST 1.25 Plug, for ESP32 and Arduino Boards, 4-Pack ($35.99)
3.7V 3000mAh 1S LiPo battery at $35.99 for a 4-pack. It uses a JST 1.25 plug and has a built-in protection board. Recommended current is 0.6 A, with a 1.5 A maximum.
LiPo Battery Module, USB-C Rechargeable 1200mAh, 3.3V and 5V USB Output for Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi ($14.99)
LiPo battery module at $14.99 with a built-in 1200mAh battery. It gives 5 V at 1.2 A and 3.3 V at 800 mA. It charges over USB-C in about 1 hour and does not support UPS operation.
ESP32 DevKit V1 Development Board, 30-Pin WROOM-32, WiFi + Bluetooth ($11.99)
ESP32 DevKit V1 development board from $11.99. It is a 30-pin WROOM-32 board with WiFi and Bluetooth, in Micro USB or Type-C versions. Power it from the module USB-A port or header rails.
Shop the full range: Batteries & Chargers at Quality RC Parts. See also: Related guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can the 1S pack power any ESP32 board?
No. It fits boards with an SH1.25-2 battery plug, including the ESP32 LoRa and Mesh Node boards the listing names. Check your board plug before ordering.
Does the USB-C module work as a UPS?
No. The module does not support UPS operation, so it will not hold a project up through a power cut. USB-C pass-through powers the project from USB with the battery disconnected.
How long does the module take to charge?
Charging runs through USB-C and takes about 1 hour. Both C-to-C and A-to-C cables work, as the listing states.
What current can the 1S pack supply?
The recommended charge and discharge current is 0.6 A, with a 1.5 A maximum. Do not push past the rated range, or the protection board can be damaged.
Sources
- Battery University: Charging Lithium-Ion Batteries (BU-409)
- Oscar Liang: LiPo Battery Guide
- Espressif: ESP32 SoC Product Page
- Arduino: Starting Guide
Last updated: November 12, 2026.