What to Look for When Buying 18650 Batteries

As an engineer, trying to find the right battery for your application can be a challenge. So you narrowed it down to wanting an 18650 battery, that’s great! These compact cells are perfect in a range of applications like consumer electronics, drones, robotics, and electric vehicles. But what should engineers consider when purchasing them? Let's delve into the key factors to look out for.

Capacity:

The capacity, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), indicates how many amps the battery can hold. Opt for a higher capacity for longer device runtimes between charges.

Voltage:

Ensure the battery voltage matches your device's requirements. 18650 batteries typically offer a nominal voltage of 3.6 volts per cell. At MaxAmps we are able to build lithium-ion batteries at a wide range of voltages by putting cells in series. Contact us with what voltage is required and we can help find the right battery for you.

Chemistry:

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are a great option for lower discharge applications that are looking for long runtimes because of their high energy density. However, consider alternatives like lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) for applications prioritizing safety and longevity. Or Lithium Polymer for applications that require high discharge.

Brand Reputation:

Stick to reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Trusted manufacturers often invest in rigorous testing and quality control measures.

Operating Temperature Range:

Verify that the battery can operate within your device's temperature specifications. Extreme temperatures can affect performance and safety.

Price vs. Quality:

While cost is a factor, when it comes to batteries, we suggest prioritizing quality over price. Cheap, low-quality batteries may pose safety risks and fail prematurely, compromising your project's deadlines or causing incidents with your customers.

Certifications and Compliance:

Companies with certifications like ISO 9001, and ISO 14001 have a proven system for quality control. This is very important to consider because of the potential dangers lithium batteries pose. We suggest purchasing from companies that have a certified quality control system.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for premium 18650 batteries take a look at our Li-ion section of our website, or contact us and we can help find the right battery for you. If you have any other questions about 18650 batteries or lithium batteries in general feel free to reach out and we would be happy to help!