Sign Up to get occasional emails from the store, such as restock notifications, product and store updates, and upcoming events.
UltraLite QRP Battery — Lightweight USB-C PD Power for Portable Radios
Light. Quiet. All-Day Power.
The UltraLite QRP Battery is a compact, RF-quiet 18Wh power source built for portable and field operations. It delivers selectable 5V, 9V, or 12V output via USB Power Delivery trigger cables, charges in under 2 hours from any USB-C source, and weighs under 4.5 oz. Take it to a summit, a park, or a go-bag — it just works.
Designed, printed, and hand-assembled in Colorado, USA.
Specifications:
Battery Display Calibration: The power management board includes a dedicated coulomb counter for the battery percentage display. Out of the box, the display may not be accurate. The coulomb counter requires approximately 12 full charge-and-discharge cycles to properly calibrate. Until then, the percentage shown is an estimate. This is normal behavior and will improve with use.
How Voltage Selection Works:
The output voltage is determined by the trigger cable you choose at checkout. Each cable negotiates a fixed voltage from the battery via USB Power Delivery. Pick the voltage your radio or device needs:
One free trigger cable is included with your battery. Additional cables are available separately.
Trigger Cable Options:
Ideal For:
What's Included:
Design Details:
Each battery is 3D-printed and hand-assembled — minor texture variations are cosmetic and do not affect performance. The battery features a digital display showing remaining capacity as a percentage, with a green lightning bolt icon indicating active USB PD output.
Charging Notes:
Recharge from any USB-C power source — wall adapters, car chargers, or solar panels. Not all USB-C cables are created equal. If charging doesn't start, try a different cable.
Recommended Charger:
Any USB-C charger rated 15W or higher will charge the battery at full speed. Lower-wattage chargers will still work — they'll just charge slower. PPS (Programmable Power Supply) chargers will automatically negotiate the optimal charge rate but are not required. A USB-A to USB-C cable with a standard USB-A wall adapter also works and is the most universally reliable option.
User-Serviceable Cell:
The UltraLite uses a single Samsung 50E 21700 cell. When it eventually degrades, you can replace it yourself. No need to buy a whole new battery.
Lead Time & Shipping:
Batteries are made to order in small batches. Current lead time is posted at the top of the site — please check there for the most up-to-date estimate. Shipping options and costs are calculated at checkout.
FAQ:
Q: The battery percentage display doesn't seem accurate.
A: This is expected for new units. The onboard coulomb counter needs about 12 full charge/discharge cycles to calibrate. Accuracy improves with each cycle.
Q: What voltage do I need?
A: Check your radio's DC input specs. Most QRP rigs accept 12V. Some accept 9V. The trigger cable determines the output — choose the one that matches your equipment.
Q: Can I charge this with a solar panel?
A: Yes. Any USB-C power source that supports at least 5W can charge the battery, including compatible solar panels.
Q: The barrel jack on the Premium cable doesn't fit my radio.
A: The Standard cable uses a DC 5.5×2.1mm barrel jack. The Premium cable uses DC 5.5×2.5mm. Check your radio's barrel jack size before ordering. A 2.1mm plug will fit loosely in a 2.5mm jack and may not make reliable contact.
Q: Can I replace the cell myself?
A: Yes. The UltraLite is user-serviceable. It uses a single Samsung 50E 21700 cell.
Shipping costs are calculated at check out.
A separate email is sent when your item is fulfilled and ready to head your way. The tracking number can take up to 48 hours to update.
USPS, UPS and FedEx are delivery options for USA.
UPS, FedEx and DHL are delivery options for International Customers only.
USA Note: USPS shipments are often delayed but rarely lost. USPS has been known to take up to 30 days to deliver.
International Note: You are responsible for all additional costs related to customs and duties.
I purchased this battery for my QMX. This has lasted me several activations without having to charge it. I liked it so much, I purchased an additional one. I’d love to have one for each of my QRP bags.
I have tested this with a few radios at 5-20w, and got great results. Very quiet, does its job. Good value even though I paid the non-sale price.
The battery that was sent to me was faulty. I believe you are sending me a replacement. After I have a chance to use the replacement, I will provide another review.
This is a "Pocket Powerhouse".
Can't beat the price also.
Great mini power bank. I use it with my QDX for a mini digital station. and can go several hours at 9V. Even use it to quick charge my phone.