Battery Runtime Calculator

Calculate how long a battery will last based on its capacity (mAh or Wh) and the device's power draw.

Accounts for voltage conversion losses

Enter battery capacity and current draw.

Battery Runtime Formula

Runtime (hours) = (Battery Capacity × Efficiency) / Current Draw
Runtime = (mAh × η) / mA
Example: 5000 mAh battery, 500 mA draw, 85% efficiency.
Runtime = (5000 × 0.85) / 500 = 4250 / 500 = 8.5 hours

Common Battery Capacities

Battery TypeTypical Capacity
AAA1,000 mAh
AA2,500 mAh
18650 Li-ion2,500–3,500 mAh
Phone battery3,000–5,000 mAh
Power bank10,000–20,000 mAh

FAQ

Why include efficiency?

Real circuits lose energy through voltage regulators, heat, and other inefficiencies. A typical efficiency of 80–90% gives a more realistic runtime estimate.

Last updated: 2026-08-08