There are a few different types of lithium-ion cells that are popular for use in custom battery packs. The most common type is the 18650 cell, which is a cylindrical cell that is 18mm in diameter and 65mm long. These cells are often used in laptop batteries and other high-powered applications.
Another popular type of lithium-ion cell is the 26650 cell, which is slightly larger than the 18650 cell. These cells are often used in high-powered applications such as electric vehicles.
The third type of lithium-ion cell that is popular for use in custom battery packs is the 21700 cell. This type of cell is similar in size to the 18650 cell, but it has a slightly larger diameter and length. These cells are often used in high-powered applications such as electric vehicles.
Many lithium ion cells are in short supply, so it is important to choose the right one for your custom battery pack.
Lithium ion cells are generally divided into three categories - high power, high energy and balance.
- High power lithium ion cells are typically used in applications where high discharge rates are required, such as in robotics, drones and power tools. These cells tend to have a lower capacity and cycle life than high energy cells, but can provide more power.
- High energy lithium-ion cells are typically used in applications where a long battery life and cycle life is required, such as in laptop computers and asset tracking devices. These cells tend to have a higher capacity than high power cells, but can provide less power. They also tend to be safer, as often they contain a CID (current interrupter device).
- Balanced lithium-ion cells are a compromise between the two and are suitable for many applications. Balance lithium ion cells usually have a capacity of around 2200mAh.
Engineers often ask us which lithium-ion cell is the most popular for custom battery packs. The answer really depends on the application, but below are some of the most popular lithium-ion cells.
If you're looking for advice on which cell is best for your application, contact one of our battery designers. We'll analyze your mechanical and electrical needs and choose the finest battery based on your specifications. Please schedule a free consultation here. If you've already chosen a cell, we can design the BMS as well as the mechanical enclosure.
Manufacturer |
Format |
Model # |
Battery Voltage and Battery Capacity |
LG |
Cylindrical |
18650-F1L |
High Energy, 3.6V, 3.35Ah |
LG |
Cylindrical |
18650-M26 |
Middle rate, 3.6V, 2.6Ah |
LG |
Cylindrical |
18650-MH1 |
Middle rate, 3.6V, 3.2Ah |
LG |
Cylindrical |
18650-MJ1 |
Middle rate, 3.6V, 3.5Ah |
LG |
Cylindrical |
21700-M50LT |
Middle rate, 3.6V, 5.0Ah |
MoliCel |
Cylindrical |
INR18650-M35A |
3.6V, 3500mAh |
MoliCel |
Cylindrical |
INR18650-P26A |
3.6V, 2600mAh, Wide Temp, High rate |
MoliCel |
Cylindrical |
INR21700-P42A |
3.6V, 4200mAh |
Murata |
Cylindrical |
US18650VTC6 |
3.6V, 3000mAh, 20A/30A Disch. |
Murata |
Cylindrical |
US18650VTC5 |
3.6V, 2500mAh, 20A/30A Disch. |
Murata |
Cylindrical |
US18650VTC4 |
3.6V, 2100mAh, 30A discharge |
Panasonic |
Cylindrical |
18650ZM2 |
3.6V, 2600mAh |
Panasonic |
Cylindrical |
NCR18650GA |
Middle Rate, 3.6V, 3.5Ah |
Panasonic |
Cylindrical |
NCR18650B (Sanyo) |
3400mAh, 3.6V, Standard Type |
Panasonic |
Cylindrical |
UR18650RX (Sanyo) |
1950mAh, 3.6V |
Panasonic |
Cylindrical |
NCR18650GA(6W) |
3300mAh, 3.6V |
Panasonic |
Prismatic |
NCA103450 |
3.6V, 2350mAh |
Panasonic |
Prismatic |
UF553450ZP |
3.7V 1200mAh |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
18650-25R |
High Rate, 3.6V, 2.5Ah |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
18650-26J |
High Energy, 3.6V, 2.6Ah |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
18650-29E7 |
Middle rate, 3.6V, 2.9Ah |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
18650-35E |
Middle rate, 3.6V, 3.5Ah |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
21700-30T |
3.6V, 3.0Ah |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
21700-48X2 |
3.6V, 4.8Ah, 3000cycles |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
21700-50E |
3.6V, 5.0Ah, 2C(C), 3C(P) |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
21700-50G |
3.6V, 5.0Ah, 1C(C), 2C(P) |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
21700-50S |
3.6V, 5.0Ah 5C(C), 9C(P) |
Samsung |
Cylindrical |
18650-30Q |
High rate, 3.6V, 3.0Ah |