HOW TO CHARGE A LIGHTSABER

ACCESS YOUR BATTERY

All Ultrasabers’ hilts feature a removable battery pack, while some have a recharge port on the hilt if selected during customization. If your saber is equipped with a recharge port, it will be opposite the switch, on the back of the hilt. Without a recharge port, you will need to remove the pommel in order to slide the battery holder out to access your battery. 

Keep in mind that you should always turn the saber off before charging or removing batteries.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHARGER

When it comes to lightsaber battery types, Ultrasabers’ lightsabers use rechargeable lithium‑ion cells. Two common sizes power our sabers:

• 14500 Batteries: Shorter and narrower, used in our older electronics setups. 14500 batteries typically charge through a protected battery charger or via a built‑in recharge port.
• 18650 Batteries: Larger cells used in our modern electronics. They draw more power and require a charger that accommodates 18650 dimensions. 

The external chargers we offer are the safest way to top off your cells. They automatically stop charging when your lightsaber batteries reach full capacity, preventing overcharging. If your hilt has an integrated recharge port, use the included wall adapter and cable; plug the charger into the port until the indicator light changes (usually from red to green), showing a full charge.

LIGHTSABER CHARGING TIMES & TIPS

Charging a lightsaber is not one-size-fits-all. Runtime and charging times vary depending on your electronics package, battery type, and usage habits:

• Base-Lit Sabers: Expect several hours of runtime on a single 18650 battery. They typically recharge in 2–3 hours. Remove the battery or plug into the recharge port on your lightsaber until the indicator light shows full.
• Neopixel Sabers: These draw more power to drive pixel blades, so runtimes are shorter. While you may only get around a hour of collective usage time because of the additional battery drain, the battery should take a similar amount of time to charge. 
• Recharge Ports: Insert the charging plug gently; if you feel resistance, rotate the plug slightly rather than forcing it. Once fully charged, disconnect promptly to preserve battery health.
• Spare Batteries: Keeping an extra set of charged batteries on hand is smart. Swap them when needed rather than waiting, and rotate usage evenly to prolong life.

LIGHTSABER SAFETY

Lithium‑ion cells are powerful. Handle them with respect by following these guidelines:

• Use Quality Batteries: Only use batteries with specs that match your original battery. 
• Inspect for Damage: If a battery’s wrapper is torn or the cell is dented, replace it immediately. Damaged cells can short-circuit.
• Avoid Over‑Discharge: When the blade flickers, dims noticeably, or the saber won’t turn on, stop using it and recharge. Running a battery to empty shortens its life.
• Keep It Cool: Charge batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials. 

HOW TO CHARGE ULTRASABERS’ BATTERIES

Proper battery care helps maximize performance and lifespan. If you won't be using your saber for an extended period, store lithium-ion cells at approximately 50% charge in a cool, dry location or on a charger capable of trickle charging. If you own multiple batteries, consider labeling them and rotating their use so they age evenly over time. It's also a good idea to keep your recharge port clean and free of dust or debris. If necessary, use compressed air to gently clear the port before charging your lightsaber.

Read our Lightsaber Battery Replacement Guide for more information on changing out saber batteries.

WHEN TO RECHARGE

How often you charge depends on how you use your saber. Frequent saber duelers or cosplayers may need to recharge or swap cells at every event. Display sabers with modest use can go weeks between charges. If your ignition feels delayed or the brightness decreases, it’s time to recharge.

REMOVE THE MYSTERY OF SABER CHARGING

Now that we’ve reviewed how to charge a lightsaber, you can start powering up! Charging your lightsaber shouldn’t be a mystery. With a little knowledge about your saber’s battery type and port location, you’ll keep the Force strong. For detailed instructions and lightsaber info, check out our Holocron resources. You can also visit our active online community, SaberForum.com, to talk to other saber owners.