In this post, we will be discussing some alternatives to the 18650 battery. The 18650 battery is one of the most popular types of rechargeable batteries in use today.

They are used in many applications from laptops and cell phones to power tools and electric cars. In fact, they are so common that there have been shortages recently due to their popularity.

This has led you and many people to search for what can you use instead of 18650 batteries? We hope you enjoy our list!

What You Can Use Instead of the 18650 Battery?

The size of the battery is represented by its capacity, which is normally measured in milliamperes (mAh). A 18650 battery or a lithium-ion cell is categorized by its size.

One of the most popular sizes is 18mm in diameter and 65mm long. It has a nominal voltage of around 36V and a capacity anywhere from 2500mAh to 6000mAh.

Here are the alternatives you can use instead of the 18650 battery:

1) 18650 battery alternative #01: 20700 battery

The 20700 battery is slightly larger than the 18650 cell – its length and width are 70mm each, while it has a diameter of 21mm only. It offers better performance due to higher current output (up to 30A). Its nominal voltage is between 34V and 42V, depending on the manufacturer and chemistry used in this type of cells. The capacity ranges from 2500mAh up to 3500mAh.

2) 18650 battery alternative #02: 21700 battery

This model represents a bigger version of the previous one, not by size but by power! In fact, it can supply currents up to 40A with a range of voltages from 37V-43V according to chemistry employed for production purposes. The capacity of this battery type is very high, with figures reaching up to 4000mAh.

3) 18650 battery alternative #03: 26650 cell

The most powerful of all 18650 batteries, the 26650 model has a length and width of 65mm each while its diameter is 26mm only. The voltage range is between 40V-48V according to chemistry used in production purposes.

This size offers higher output currents than other models from 35A for lower capacity ones (up to 2600mAh) up to 60A for bigger cells boasting more power!

When it comes to recharging time, these types have fast recharge times due to their larger terminals. Capacity ranges from 3000mAh up to 5000mAh depending on the manufacturer and quality standards followed during the production process.

What Makes 18650 Battery Different from Other Types?

The 18650 battery is the most popular among different types of rechargeable cells and batteries. Its name represents its measurements in millimeters.

It must be 18mm in diameter and 65mm long (or vice versa). It has a nominal voltage at around 36V while capacity can vary depending on manufacturers, cell size, chemistry used, etc.

The three alternatives listed above offer slightly higher performance than the traditional model but they share similar characteristics such as: excellent discharge/charge cycle endurance; no memory effect; low self-discharging rate; good operational temperature range (-20˚C to +60˚C) etc.

How Long does a 18650 Battery Last?

Depending on the number of charge/discharge cycles, this type of cell can last from 300 to 500 charging cycles. It is recommended not to drain it completely and often recharge in order to increase its lifespan. Keep your batteries stored at room temperature (it must be around 20˚C) away from humidity sources.

Storage conditions should be checked every month or so! Avoid exposing them to extremely high temperatures and low ones because they may have a long-term impact on their capacities and performance levels.

If you notice some unusual changes with your battery pack, consider replacing it with a new one ASAP since these types do contain dangerous chemicals that might cause accidents if exposed to fire or excessive heat.

We hope that this article answered your question, “What You Can Use Instead of the 18650 Battery?” If you have other questions about this topic, please leave a comment below or send us an email. You can check our post about what gauge extension cord for your battery charger if you are looking for a longer cord.