If you want to choose a cylindrical lithium-ion battery, 18650 and 26650 are two very popular and common models. But the differences between 18650 and 26650 batteries will have a significant impact on your final choice. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between 18650 and 26650 batteries so you can make an informed decision when choosing the right power supply for your needs.
18650 vs 26650 Batteries
What is 18650 Battery?
The 18650 battery is a popular cylindrical lithium-ion battery, named for its size. “18” represents the diameter of the battery (in millimeters), while “65” refers to the height of the battery. The “0” indicates its cylindrical shape. The 18650 battery was first introduced in the early 1990s and has since been used in a wide variety of applications, including laptop computers, power tools, electric vehicles and portable electronic devices.
What is 26650 Battery?
The 26650 battery is another popular cylindrical lithium-ion battery that is larger in size compared to the 18650 battery. Similar to the 18650, the “26” in the battery’s name refers to its diameter (in millimeters), while the “65” represents its height. The 26650 battery is typically used in applications that require higher capacity and current output than the 18650 battery. This makes it suitable for high power consuming devices that require consistently high output.
18650 vs 26650 Batteries Sizes and Weight
As we mentioned earlier, 18650 battery have a diameter of 18 mm and a height of 65 mm. In comparison, the 26650 battery has a larger diameter of 26 mm and a height of 65 mm. This means that 26650 battery are larger and may not be suitable for devices designed specifically for 18650 battery.
In terms of weight, 18650 batteries typically weigh about 45-50 grams, while 26650 batteries weigh about 80-100 grams.
The larger size and heavier weight of the 26650 battery compared to the 18650 battery may not be friendly to applications with high space and weight requirements. 18650 batteries are a bit more flexible than 26650 batteries in applications.
18650 vs 26650 Batteries Voltage and Capacity
Both 18650 and 26650 batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.7 volts. The actual voltage will vary depending on the charge level of the battery. When fully charged, both batteries can reach about 4.2 volts.
Capacity measures how much energy a battery can store. 18650 batteries typically have a capacity of between 2000-3500mAh, while 26650 batteries have a capacity of between 4000-5200mAh. This means that 26650 batteries can store more energy and provide longer runtimes than 18650 batteries, making them more suitable for devices with high power consumption.
18650 vs 26650 Batteries Characteristics and Applications
Despite their small size, 18650 batteries have a high energy density. It is suitable for devices that require a small form factor. It is commonly used in applications such as electronic cigarettes, flashlights, power tools, and electronic devices.
26650 batteries typically have a higher energy capacity. It is suitable for devices that require long operation time and high power output. It is commonly used in applications such as electric bicycles, mobile power and energy storage devices.
Pros and Cons of 18650 and 26650 batteries
The advantages of 18650 batteries over 26650 are: high energy density; long cycle life; compact size; widely available and affordable.
The disadvantages of 18650 batteries compared to 26650 are: lower capacity; lower continuous current output.
However, there are many manufacturers of 18650 batteries, which can lead to a huge difference in the quality and price of the same type of battery! Please pay attention to screening the quality of the battery when purchasing!
Conclusion
When choosing between 18650 and 26650 batteries, it is important to consider your specific needs. If size, weight and energy density are your priorities, then 18650 batteries may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you need more power and longer runtimes, then 26650 batteries are worth considering.
Ultimately, the choice between 18650 and 26650 batteries depends on the specific application and the tradeoffs you are willing to make. By understanding the key differences and considering the advantages and disadvantages of each battery type, you can make an informed choice.