After how many cycles should I replace my batteries? (Mini 4 Pro)

Seeking Advice
1

I recently got my Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo with regular batteries. I heard that drone batteries should be replaced after 100 cycles, but I’m not sure which model this applies to or whether this information is accurate. Is it true? How much performance do we lose after these cycles?

I understand that to prevent swelling, batteries shouldn’t be constantly charged to full; they should be charged only before use and kept under 25% when stored. If these conditions are met, does the cycle count still apply?

2

The batteries will automatically discharge if not used. Unless the battery is swollen or doesn’t hold charge anymore, I’d say keep using it.

3
  1. Batteries should last for at least 200 cycles, but many are still functional beyond 300 cycles, albeit with some noticeable degradation. I have a battery at over 350 cycles with less than 5% reduction in average flying time.
  2. Batteries should NOT be stored below 25%. The ideal storage charge is around 50-60%, with a recharge to this level after every three months of long-term storage.
  3. A battery is considered cycled once its charge drops below 25%. If you use the batteries within the range of 30-100%, the cycle count will likely remain unchanged.
4

@Reagan
Thank you. Isn’t the count of a full cycle cumulative? For instance, if I use 80% now and recharge, then after using 20% more, wouldn’t it count as a full cycle?

5

Zed said:
@Reagan
Thank you. Isn’t the count of a full cycle cumulative? For instance, if I use 80% now and recharge, then after using 20% more, wouldn’t it count as a full cycle?

Yes, you are correct. It doesn’t make sense for a battery cycle not to count if you stop before reaching 30%, as stated.

6

Zed said:
@Reagan
Thank you. Isn’t the count of a full cycle cumulative? For instance, if I use 80% now and recharge, then after using 20% more, wouldn’t it count as a full cycle?

Not in my experience.
I fly drones for SAR as a volunteer and am meticulous about battery maintenance, as it’s part of my CAA authorisation and Ops Manual.
My 350-cycle battery is from my Mini 2 and isn’t part of my SAR equipment. I wouldn’t risk that many cycles on larger drones that are safety-critical.
Edit: That’s not entirely true. I generally use higher-cycle batteries for testing firmware updates and maintenance tasks, rather than those that are part of my operational kit.

7

How were you able to order a Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo? I haven’t seen one available anywhere except through third-party sellers for almost $1,000 above the DJI store price.

8

Jaden said:
How were you able to order a Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo? I haven’t seen one available anywhere except through third-party sellers for almost $1,000 above the DJI store price.

I don’t live in the US. There are still drones available here at the regular retail price.