Battery Life Calculator

Estimate how long a battery will last from its capacity and the current your device draws, with a realistic efficiency derating.

Estimated runtime
Ideal (no derating)

Ideal runtime is capacity ÷ current draw. Real batteries deliver less than their rated capacity under load, so a derating factor (often 70 to 85%) gives a more realistic estimate. Heavy loads, cold temperatures and old cells reduce it further.

Frequently asked questions

How is battery life estimated?

The ideal runtime is the battery capacity divided by the current draw, so a 2000mAh battery powering a 150mA device lasts about 13.3 hours. Real cells deliver less under load, so a derating factor gives a more honest figure.

Why apply a derating factor?

Rated capacity is measured under gentle, ideal conditions. Under a real load you lose some to internal resistance, voltage cutoff and heat, so 70 to 85% of the rating is a common, more realistic assumption. Lower it for high-drain or cold use.

Does capacity in Ah work too?

Yes, just keep units consistent: if you enter capacity in mAh, enter the current in mA. For an amp-hour rating, multiply by 1000 to get mAh first.