Discharge Rating (C)

Discharge rating is the amount of amps a particular battery can safely discharge. Discharge ratings can be seen in two different ways. On lithium ion cells such as 18650s and 26650 cells, the discharge rating is shown in amps (A) while on lithium polymer packs, the discharge rating is shown as a C rating. The C rating means that the battery can safely discharge the C rating mutliplied by the amp hours (Ah) of the cell. For example, a 2000mAh battery with a rating of 50C should be able to safely discharge 100A.

It is important to understand that sometimes manufacturers will overstate the C rating of their batteries so it would be wise to research the battery you plan on buying before you purchase it.