Introduction:
Lithium batteries hold a central role in a tech-dominated environment. They are powerhouses for large applications like electric vehicles, alarm systems, and marine vehicles. The influence of these energy sources also extends to normal household devices like flashlights, smartphones, and laptops.
There are several types of batteries in the electric device market. Among these are the most common portable electric device market batteries: 14500 VS 18650 battery.
In this article, we will compare and contrast both 14500 and 18650 batteries. We’ll explore the similarities and differences between 14500 VS 18650 battery, their distinguishing properties, and their respective applications.
What is a 14500 battery?
The 14500 batteries are rechargeable lithium-ion devices with cylindrical shapes and multiple product applications. The unique name of 14500 batteries stems from their diameter and length. “14” stands for 14 mm in diameter, while “50” refers to the battery being 50 mm in length.
When comparing 14500 batteries to an AA battery, you will realize they are similar in size and shape. Most people refer to the former as the rechargeable version of alkaline AA batteries.
What is a 18650 battery?
A 18650 lithium battery is a cylindrical rechargeable device with a diameter of 18 mm and a height of 65 mm. This type of battery has a standard industry size with a capacity that is usually between 1200mAh and 3600mAh.
What is the difference between 14500 and 18650 battery?
This section compares the difference between 14500 vs 18650 battery using various parameters. These features offer both types of lithium batteries their unique qualities and include:
1. Dimension
18650 VS 14500 battery size is a major differentiating factor between the two power sources.
The 18650 battery dimensions are generally bigger than 14500 batteries, as 14500 batteries have a measurement of 14 mm by 50 mm, while a normal 18650 battery size is 18 mm by 65 mm.
2. Capacity
A typical 18650 lithium battery has a larger capacity of between 1200mAh to 3600mAh.
On the other hand, 14500 batteries have smaller capacities that range from 500mAh to 800mAh.
However, since both batteries are made from lithium, they have a very similar life, with the life cycle of 18650 batteries being arguably longer.
3. Performance
Because the 18650 battery dimensions and capacity are bigger and higher than a 14500 battery, the former has a greater power output than its counterpart.
In addition, although both are lithium-ion batteries and were created to last long, 14500 batteries have lesser energy densities.
However, if the 18650 battery VS 14500 battery come from the same manufacturer, they might have the same energy densities.
To clarify, both types of batteries will have a long life cycle if used and maintained properly.
4. Rate of Discharge
A 18650 lithium battery can charge up to 4.2V and has an ultimate discharge rate of 10C, while 14500 lithium batteries will support a discharge rate of 0.5-1C.
5. Voltage
Another important feature to consider between 18650 and 14500 batteries is their respective voltages.
A normal 18650 lithium battery has a higher voltage compared to 14500 batteries. The former has a voltage of 3.6V or 3.7V while the latter- 14500 battery, has a nominal voltage of 3.2V.
Because the 18650 battery size and voltage are higher than that of 14500 lithium batteries, they are used to power highly demanding devices like laptops, drones, electric bikes, and power tools.
What is the Similarity Between a 14500 VS 18650 Battery?
The main similarity between these two lithium-ion battery types is their voltage. Both batteries have power outputs that could be 3.2V, 3.6V, 3.65V, or 3.7V.
Another similarity is that they can both power the same device or devices as long as the battery compartment has adequate space.
Other specs like capacity, rate of discharge, and dimensions distinguish 14500 and 18650 batteries from each other. For instance, regarding their size, the 18650 battery dimensions are 18 mm in diameter and 65 mm in length.
Applications of 14500 battery VS 18650 Lithium Battery
Both 14500 and 18650 batteries have various applications in different fields.
A 14500 lithium-ion battery can serve as an energy source for portable electronic devices, including remote-controlled toys, digital thermometers, flashlights, etc. They can be used in devices that work with AA Batteries and prove to be a great upgrade from their disposable equivalent.
Alternatively, 18650 batteries have higher capacities and therefore serve to power consumer devices like laptops, vapes, electric vehicles, and marine vessels.
Factors to Consider when Buying 14500 and 18650 Batteries
Before purchasing either type of lithium-ion battery, remember a few things.
For instance, you might want to account for the size compartment of your device. Get a suitable battery type with the correct size for your appliance. This will help you maintain the gadget and prevent possible hiccups as you use it.
Next, consider how much power your device will require for the optimum user experience. Using a battery with a lower power output will result in malfunction and less than satisfactory results. In the same vein, if the power is beyond your device’s, there could be serious damage to both the lithium battery and your equipment.
Another factor to consider is the authenticity of the battery you want to purchase. Be sure to buy original batteries. You may be tempted to purchase counterfeit goods due to their cheaper cost; however, this decision will likely have consequences.
Unlike authentic batteries, fake products do not meet safety and quality requirements. In lenient scenarios, you will have an unrepairable device and a destroyed battery. More serious cases could lead to dangerous explosions, so be prudent in your decision.
Lastly, consider batteries that take less time to charge to ensure that you enjoy your devices without interruption. Like all lithium batteries, 14500 and 18650 batteries have a fast charge. The charge rate of a lithium-ion battery is generally around 0.2C. Pair that with an appropriate charger and watch your lithium battery give you its maximum performance.