18650 Batteries: How to Choose the Right Type

Published on: March 17, 2022
Written by Liam Jaxon / Fact-checked by David Rowan

18650 batteries are the most used batteries these days. You can use them for flashlights or vapes or mobile chargers or laptops. Even large companies like Telsa use 18650 batteries for their vehicles.

They are easy to use and their price is kept fair and low to make them available for you.

You don’t need to be an expert to get a 18650 battery. Just look for some basic features in it to use the most of it.

All you need to select the battery which is compatible with the device in which you’re going to use the battery.

Another thing you need to consider is the company’s warranty which can help you to get a replacement in case of a faulty product.

Worried about finding the right battery for your use?

Relax!

In this buying guide, I’ve discussed the most important factors which can help you to know about 18650 batteries.

What is a 18650 Battery

18650 is the size classification of lithium-ion batteries and the ‘18650’ comes from their size. The diameter of these batteries is 18mm and the height is 65mm. They are a little bit bigger than AA batteries but the shape is the same.

Any charging devices like a mobile phone chargers, laptops, or other devices have the 18650 batteries in them.

How to Choose the Right Type

Like any other product, you need to look for a few basic features. If you ignore these features, you may get an inferior battery. And moreover, it will lead you to the loss of power at an inappropriate time. So consider these facts and get the right 18650 batteries for you.

1. Battery Life

The first thing you need to consider is how long the battery will last. Because a battery with long life will allow you to use the device smoothly for a long time. That means if the battery you’re using has a long life guarantee, you don’t need to be worried about going out of light when you’re camping or tracking with your flashlight or any other device.

2. Voltage

Another important thing you need to consider for buying your 18650 batteries is their voltage. The voltage of the battery controls the flow of energy in your device.

If the battery has a higher voltage, the current will be faster which will provide any of your devices with more power.

But the drawback of higher voltage is the battery gets overheated quickly and drains the power of the battery fast.

But if you should check the manual of your device and check the recommended voltage and use it according to this you can avoid this problem.

3. Capacity

The capacity of the battery means the amount of power the battery is able to hold. Higher capacity means long battery life. So you must look for the capacity of the battery you’re going to buy to get a long-lasting one.

4. Rechargeable

Getting a rechargeable battery will allow you to use them frequently. These types of batteries can assure you have a relaxed outing without the nightmare of running out of power.

5. Device Compatibility

Among available batteries, you’ll find some that are flat on both sides, while some others have a prong that you can see on the set of AAs.

Before buying, you should make sure which type of battery you need for the device you’ll use them. Otherwise, you’ll end up with batteries that you won’t be able to use.

6. Safety

If you get the wrong battery for your device, it may get overheated and explode. So for safety reasons, you must check the manufacturer’s manual to know about the recommended voltage of the battery and buy the right battery for the device.

You also need to check the casings of the battery you’re going to buy. Because if the outer casing of your battery is weak, it is definitely not safe to operate. You should always purchase batteries that are properly enclosed.

Top 10 Options

1. Lightbole 4PCS Li-ion Rechargeable 18650 Batteries by Lightbole

Features:

• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Capacity: 4000MAH;
• Packaging includes 4pcs 18650 3.7V 4000mAh Button Top for Led Flashlight, Toys, Household Appliance.
• Rechargeable Batteries for a led flashlight.

Review

First of all, I would like to mention that, both flat-top and button-top batteries with the same features are available. Know your device and be sure before ordering this battery. These are superb in terms of quality and rechargeable batteries, led flashlights, toys, and part household appliances. But people often order the wrong one mistakenly and leave a negative review.

These batteries are one of the most recommended batteries and are compatible with flashlights of leading brands. Its capacity is proven to be 4000mAH as advertised. Besides, its high voltage makes it perfect to use in demanding applications. 

Its safety mechanism is a state of the art. It disconnects automatically in case of high voltage, high current, overcharge or discharge, and overheating. Batteries have 5 years of storage life and more than 500 charge cycles. Once you install this battery, you will not need another one for at least a couple of years.

Things We Liked

• Highly compatible with popular brands;
• High capacity;
• Auto disconnect for safety.

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

---

2. Lightbole 2PCS Li-ion Rechargeable 18650 Batteries

Features:

• Capacity: 5000AMH;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes 2PCS Li-ion Rechargeable 18650 Batteries 5000AMH 3.7V Button Top for Led Flashlight, Toys, and Household Appliance.

Review

These batteries from Lightbole come with an impressive 5000aMH capacity to deliver tremendous power to the host device. Despite the high capacity, it gets charged comparatively quicker than expected. It is available at a reasonable price too. 

The downside is, the manufacturer did not put any protective insulation in it for some obvious reasons. Due to the lack of a protective circuit, there is a risk of overheating. But I did not get any complaints about overheating so far. Some users have complained about the cover peeling off within a couple of months of use. That is not a big issue, nor it will affect its performance. But this is somewhat disappointing for a rechargeable battery.

However, I will recommend this battery only for devices with built-in protection circuits. Besides, it can only be used on 3.7v devices. To power up expensive and more demanding gadgets, it will be wise to look for safer options.

Things We Liked

• High capacity;
• Holds charge for a long time;
• Long-lasting. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No Noticeable Cons;

---

3. 10pcs Button top 18650 Batteries by BATTERY

Features

• Capacity: 12000mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes:  3.7V 12000mAh Rechargeable battery for Tools, Toys, LED Flashlights, Torch

Review

Here you get high-quality batteries from BATTERY. These are available at a reasonable price.  So, you are happy after buying. This shows a 12000 mAh capacity in the tester whereas the real batteries are a 12000mAh capacity. 

These batteries are bare and free of any protective units. Hence, only can be used in devices and led flashlights which has a built-in protection system. This is the only drawback of these beauties. Besides, these come right out of the industry without any decent cover-ups.

The brand name BATTERY represents authenticity and reliability. These items are no different; for reliable use for years for your led flashlight or vapes, this unit can be a good choice.

Things We Liked

• High quality;
• Compatible with any device that runs on 18650;
• Economic;

Things We Didn’t Like

• No Noticeable Cons;

---

4. 8PCS Li-ion Rechargeable 18650 Batteries by Lightbole

Features

• Capacity: 5000AMH;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes 3.7V 5000AMH for Led Flashlight, Toys, and Household Appliance.

Review

The benefit of high-drain batteries is, they are less likely to overheat while charging and discharging and are suitable for demanding applications where high amperage is required.

These batteries from Lightbole are great to use in electric tools, toys, LED flashlights, torches, toys, and other high-drain devices. These are available in an affordable price range. As these are high-drain batteries, they charge faster. 

To fit this pair in an affordable range, quality is compromised a little. Its capacity will be reduced over each charge; will behalf after 250 charge cycles. Its charge-holding capacity will be reduced simultaneously. Some users complained about overheating when it ages, but overall this unit is just fine when this is new.

Things We Liked

• Suitable for your electric tools, toys, LED flashlights, torch, etc;
• Mid-range capacity;
• Comes with a storage case;
• Budget-friendly price. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Capacity degrades after 250 charge cycles.

---

5. 4 Pcs Rechargeable Flat Top Li-ion LG 18650-Battery by M&A BD Electronics

Features

• Capacity: 3500mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes: 4 Pcs MJ1 3500mAh 10A 3.7V Rechargeable Flat Top Li-ion LG 18650-Battery

Review

Once you use this battery, you will never buy any other brand again for your vape mods. These high-drain batteries are sold in 4-Pack. It is a less popular brand but the users are quite certain about its performance.

The benefit of using a less popular brand is, you get pro-quality performance at a less price. With these batteries from M&A BD Electronics, you will get every battery authenticated separately with a code. Hence, there is less risk of purchasing low-quality products or replicas.

These batteries are solid and hold a charge for an impressively long time. Sufficient for your day-long vaping. You get only one in the packaging; for nonstop service, you can purchase two so that you never get out of battery when needed most.

Things We Liked

• Affordable;
• For high-drain devices;
• Comes with a plastic case.

Things We Didn’t Like

• Performance degrades over time;
• May overheat. 

---

6. 4 Pack Panasonic Rechargeable Flat Top Lithium Ion Batteries by M&A BD Electronics

Features

• Capacity: 3200mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes 4Pack – 10A Panasonic Rechargeable Flat Top Lithium-Ion.

Review

In our list, this is the only unit that comes with a charger. Investing in these batteries will save you from purchasing an 8650 charger separately. You will get a pair of high-capacity long-lasting batteries for toys, led flashlights, clocks, remotes, and similar devices.

The included charger is portable and of moderate quality too. The included LED shows when your batteries are all charged up. The batteries come with IC protection for the safer user for years. Batteries are surprisingly long-lasting. When others give out after 250 charge cycles, these unbeatable ones deliver 85% of their performance even after over a year of usage.

The charger and the pair of batteries altogether cost even less than the cheapest battery on our list. We got mixed reviews from buyers; receiving the expected performance is a matter of luck. However, for your first purchase of a 18650 battery, this pack from DONGmeijes is a useful one.

Things We Liked

• Ideal for electric tools, toys, flashlights, torches,es, and other high-drain devices;
• Comes with authenticity code;
•  High-drain battery. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

---

7. 2 Pcs Li-ion Rechargeable Lithium Battery by KEEPPOWER

Features

• Capacity: 1200mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes 2Pack – Quality High Drain Li-ion Rechargeable Lithium Battery.

Review

Unlike conventional 18650 button top batteries, these batteries from KeepPower come with a highly protected circuit. Hence, the size is different from the normal 18650 batteries. This battery is not an AA or AAA battery, not the flat top battery, please make sure your device can use this battery before placing an order.

These are high-performance batteries. When most batteries show a 60% reduction of their capacity after 500 charge cycles, these batteries from KeepPower holds 70% of their capacity even after 500 cycles. You have to pay a few more bucks to enjoy its long-lasting performance.

Things We Liked

• Comes with a charger;
• Long-lasting battery life;
• Economic;
• Holds charge for a long time. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Mixed reviews from users.

---

8. 4 Pcs Rechargeable Flat Top Li-ion LG 18650-Battery by M&A BD Electronics

Features

• Capacity: 3500mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• 4 Pcs MJ1 3500mAh 10A 3.7V Rechargeable Flat Top Li-ion LG 18650-Battery

Review

When I tested this battery, it exceeded all my expectations. It is advertised as 3500mAh capacity. Besides, its three-layer protective circuits keep the battery and the devices in use safe from overheating, overcharging, and over-discharging. 

Its performance will barely degrade even after 500 cycles of charge and discharge. Hence, this battery ensures high performance for years to come. It is a good quality product and delivers unbeatable performance with high-end products. The structure of the battery is made sturdy to resist abuse.

The price of this battery is on the higher side. However, its performance and longevity are also beyond comparison. You will not hesitate to pay the price to enjoy its everlasting performance.

Things We Liked

• Equipped with a protected circuit;
• High performance;
• Excellent quality. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• No cons.

---

9. Galapara 2pcs 3.7V 3400mAh Rechargeable Li-ion Lithium Battery

Features

• Capacity: 3400mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes Two pc Rechargeable Li-ion Lithium Batteries with PCB Protected Board.

Review

I recommend this battery from Galapara to those, who never hesitate to invest in quality products. In terms of electronic items, the more you play, the more quality, performance, and longevity you receive. These batteries are an ultimate powerhouse, destined to serve you for years, made to resist the wear and tear of abuse and to last longer.

These batteries are different in dimension than other 18650 batteries available in the market. To make it extra safe, an identical protective circuit has been built into it. This pair of batteries are made to stay safe from overheating, overcharging, and over-discharge.

Not every device is compatible with these batteries. If you are lucky enough, your led flashlight torchlight, or headlamp may suit this unit and amaze you with the battery’s performance. These batteries are excessively pricey.

Things We Liked

• Comes with protection;
• Impact-resistant construction;
• Long warranty. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Expensive.

---

10. Panasonic 18650 Batteries-(Model No NCR18650B)

Features

• Capacity: 3400mAh;
• Voltage: 3.7V;
• Packaging includes Two pc Panasonic 18650 Batteries.

Review

I recommend this battery from Panasonic to those, who never hesitate to invest in quality products. In terms of electronic items, the more you pay, the more quality, performance, and longevity you receive. These batteries are the ultimate powerhouse, destined to serve you for years, made to resist the wear and tear of abuse and to last longer. 

These batteries are different in dimension (Height: 69.35mm, Diameter 18.73mm)than other 18650 batteries available in the market. To make it extra safe, an identical protective circuit has been built into it. This pair of batteries are made to stay safe from overheating, overcharging, and over-discharge.

Not every device is compatible with these batteries. If you are lucky enough, your flashlight or headlamp may suit this unit and amaze you with the battery’s performance. These batteries are excessively pricey.

Things We Liked

• Highest capacity battery;
• Comes with a protective circuit;
• Charges very fast. 

Things We Didn’t Like

• Different dimensions may not be compatible with many devices;
• Very expensive. 

---

Read More: Car Audio Battery Reviews – How to Choose the Right Type

Conclusion

Hope you’ve got an idea about how to select the proper 18650 battery for your device.

We need to use these batteries in our everyday life.

It is not so tough to buy a 18650 battery for your flashlight or vape.

You’ll find many renowned companies producing them like- Panasonic, GMT, Sony, and more. You can choose any of these brands and rely on them without any doubt.

I’ve also listed some reputed brand batteries in this buying guide which will make easy your selection process.

So go through this guideline and pick the right one for your device to have a smooth operation.

You Might Also Like:

• The 10 Best iPhone FM Transmitters for Your Car
• The Best 18650 Battery Chargers – Top 10 Picks Reviewed
• Golf Cart Batteries Reviews
• Do You Need a High School Diploma to Become an Electrician?