Lithium-Ion Battery Size Chart: A Complete Guide for Every Application
Lithium-ion batteries have become the go-to power source for a wide range of devices, from smartphones to electric vehicles. Their ability to store a significant amount of energy relative to their size makes them an essential component in modern technology. However, with various sizes and specifications available, choosing the right lithium-ion battery for your needs can be daunting. This article provides a comprehensive size chart and additional information to help you navigate the options available.
Understanding Lithium-Ion Battery Sizes
Lithium-ion batteries come in various shapes and sizes, each serving specific applications. Knowing the dimensions, capacities, and compatible devices can help you make informed decisions when selecting a battery. Here’s an overview of the most common types:
The 18650 lithium-ion battery is one of the most widely used battery sizes. Measuring 18 mm in diameter and 65 mm in height, it is commonly found in laptops, electric bicycles, and other portable devices. The 18650 battery can typically store between 1800mAh to 3500mAh, depending on the manufacturer and specific model. Its versatility and high energy density make it a popular choice for many applications.
The 21700 battery, which measures 21 mm in diameter and 70 mm in height, is gaining popularity, especially with the rise of electric vehicles and high-performance devices. This larger size allows for higher capacity, often ranging from 3000mAh to 5000mAh. Manufacturers, including Tesla, have adopted the 21700 for its enhanced efficiency and power delivery.
While both the 18650 and 21700 batteries are widely used, users should consider their specific needs. The 21700 offers higher capacity and longer runtimes, making it ideal for power-hungry applications like electric cars. On the other hand, the compact 18650 is more suitable for smaller devices where weight and size are critical factors.
Additional Lithium-Ion Battery Sizes
In addition to the widely known 18650 and 21700 batteries, several other sizes cater to specific applications:
The CR123A battery, commonly used in cameras and various household devices, measures 17 mm in diameter and 34.5 mm in height. This lithium battery type typically offers a capacity around 1500mAh.
Lithium-ion AA and AAA batteries are becoming increasingly popular due to their rechargeable capabilities. Their dimensions mirror standard alkaline batteries, making them perfect for consumer electronics and household devices where a direct replacement for conventional batteries is needed.
Some applications may require custom-sized lithium-ion batteries. These batteries can be designed to fit specific devices or configurations, especially in industries like robotics and medical devices.
Key Specifications to Consider
When evaluating lithium-ion batteries, several specifications are crucial:
The milliamp-hour (mAh) rating indicates the battery’s storage capacity. Higher mAh ratings mean longer operating times but also larger physical sizes.
Lithium-ion cells typically operate at 3.7 volts. When multiple cells are combined, either in series or parallel configuration, the voltage may change, affecting the overall performance of the battery pack.
The discharge rate indicates how quickly a battery can release its stored energy. A higher C rating means the battery can provide a higher current, which is crucial for applications requiring bursts of power, such as in power tools and RC vehicles.
Choosing the Right Lithium-Ion Battery
Understanding the different sizes and specifications of lithium-ion batteries is a stepping stone toward selecting the right one for your needs. Here are some tips to help you choose:
Conclusion
Lithium-ion batteries are essential for powering our modern world, but navigating the different sizes and specifications can be challenging. By understanding the common sizes such as the 18650 and 21700, and considering critical specifications like capacity and voltage, you can make a more informed choice.
Whether you’re powering a household device or an electric vehicle, this guide serves as a useful reference for selecting the right lithium-ion battery. With the right battery in hand, you can ensure your devices operate efficiently and effectively, keeping up with your daily needs.