In the world of cylindrical lithium batteries, the 21700 and 26650 types are prevalent among various electronic devices. Each has unique characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. Here, we’ll explore the differences between these two battery types to help you decide which might be better suited for your needs.
21700 Battery Cell VS 26650 Battery Cell
1. Size
The 21700 battery cell measures 21 mm in diameter and 70 mm in length, making it more compact compared to the 26650 battery, which is 26 mm in diameter and 65 mm long. The smaller diameter of the 21700 cell often makes it more advantageous for use in devices where space is at a premium.
2. Capacity
In terms of energy storage, the 26650 cells generally offer a greater capacity, reaching up to 5,000 milliamp-hours (mAh), providing longer battery life. This contrasts with the standard capacity of a 21700 cell, which is around 4,000 to 5,000 mAh. Some high-performance 21700 cells, however, can match or exceed the capacity of 26650 cells.
3. Discharge Rate
The discharge rate, which indicates how quickly a battery can release its stored energy, is generally higher in 21700 cells than in 26650 cells. This makes 21700 batteries better suited to high-power demand devices such as electric vehicles and power tools.
4. Weight
A 21700 cell typically weighs about 69 grams, lighter than the 26650 cell, which weighs around 90 grams. For portable devices, the reduced weight of the 21700 cell can enhance user experience by making devices lighter.
5. Application Fields
While 21700 cells are frequently used in applications requiring high power output, such as electric vehicles and power tools, 26650 cells are often favored in devices like flashlights, where long battery life and large capacity are paramount. This makes 26650 cells suitable for devices with fewer size and weight constraints.
Conclusion
Choosing the right battery cell for your device involves considering the specific needs of the application. If your priority is longer battery life or greater capacity and size, and weight are less of a concern, the 26650 cell might be the ideal choice. However, for those requiring a more compact and lightweight design with superior discharge performance, the 21700 cell would be more appropriate.
FAQs
Q1: Which battery type is better for high-power tools, the 21700 or the 26650?
A1: The 21700 cell is typically better for high-power tools because it generally has a higher discharge rate, making it capable of delivering the intense bursts of power that these tools require.
Q2: Can the 26650 battery be used in electric vehicles?
A2: While the 26650 can be used in electric vehicles, the 21700 is often preferred due to its higher discharge rates and efficiency in delivering power suitable for electric drivetrains.
Q3: Are 21700 cells more expensive than 26650 cells?
A3: The cost can vary depending on the manufacturer and specific battery specifications. Generally, 21700 cells might be slightly more expensive due to their newer technology and higher performance metrics.
This guide provides a comparison to help you understand the fundamental differences and applications of 21700 and 26650 battery cells, aiding in making an informed choice suited to your device’s requirements.