Lithium Batteries: Comparing 4680 and 18650 for Your Needs

Lithium batteries have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and low self-discharge rate. However, there are different types of lithium batteries available in the market, and it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we will compare the 4680 and 18650 lithium batteries and help you understand the differences between them.

What are 4680 and 18650 Lithium Batteries?

The 4680 and 18650 lithium batteries are two types of rechargeable batteries that use lithium-ion technology. The 4680 battery is a newer and larger format battery that Tesla has developed for its electric vehicles. The 18650 battery is a smaller format battery that has been used in laptops, power tools, and electric vehicles for many years.

Size and Capacity

The 4680 battery is larger than the 18650 battery, with a diameter of 46mm and a length of 80mm. In contrast, the 18650 battery has a diameter of 18mm and a length of 65mm. The larger size of the 4680 battery allows it to store more energy, making it ideal for electric vehicles that require high power output.

The 4680 battery has a capacity of 5,500mAh, while the 18650 battery has a capacity of 3,000mAh. This means that the 4680 battery can store more energy than the 18650 battery, making it more efficient and longer-lasting.

Charging Time

The 4680 battery has a faster charging time than the 18650 battery. It can charge up to 80% in just 15 minutes, while the 18650 battery takes around 45 minutes to charge up to 80%. This makes the 4680 battery more convenient for electric vehicle owners who need to charge their vehicles quickly.

Safety

Both the 4680 and 18650 batteries are safe to use, but the 4680 battery has a higher level of safety due to its larger size. The larger size of the 4680 battery allows it to dissipate heat more efficiently, reducing the risk of overheating and explosion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 4680 and 18650 lithium batteries are both excellent choices for different applications. The 4680 battery is ideal for electric vehicles that require high power output and fast charging times, while the 18650 battery is suitable for smaller devices such as laptops and power tools.