18350 and 16340 batteries are similar lithium-ion rechargeable cells often confused due to their comparable size and nominal voltage of 3.6–3.7 volts. However, they differ in physical dimensions, capacity, and application. The 18350 battery measures about 18mm in diameter and 35mm in length, generally offering higher capacity (700–1200mAh), while the 16340 is smaller at 16mm diameter and ~34mm length with capacity typically around 500–1000mAh. These distinctions affect compatibility and performance.
What Are the Size Differences Between 18350 and 16340 Batteries?
The 18350 battery is approximately 18mm wide and 35mm long, making it slightly wider but also taller than the 16340, which is about 16mm in diameter and roughly 34mm long. This difference means the 18350 is bulkier, impacting device fitment since some devices designed for 16340 batteries do not accommodate the larger 18350 cells. Conversely, many 18350-compatible devices cannot use 16340 batteries due to the smaller diameter.
Size Comparison Chart
| Battery Type | Diameter (mm) | Length (mm) | Typical Capacity (mAh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18350 | 18 | 35 | 700–1200 |
| 16340 | 16 | 34 | 500–1000 |
How Do the Capacities of 18350 and 16340 Batteries Compare?
18350 batteries usually have higher capacities ranging from 700mAh to 1200mAh, translating into longer runtimes for compatible devices. In contrast, 16340 batteries provide between 500mAh and 1000mAh, generally sufficient for lower-drain devices but shorter-lasting under heavy use. The larger physical size of 18350 supports more capacity by housing larger or more efficient cells.
Do 18350 and 16340 Batteries Have the Same Voltage?
Both batteries exhibit a nominal voltage of 3.6 to 3.7 volts, standard for lithium-ion rechargeable cells, ensuring similar electrical potential. Voltage differences, if any, are minimal and typically relate to charge level or cell chemistry variations. Therefore, voltage alone does not differentiate these two; instead, size and capacity play greater roles.
Are 18350 and 16340 Batteries Interchangeable in Devices?
Generally, no. The diameter difference excludes 16340 batteries from many devices designed strictly for 18350. While some 18350 devices might accommodate 16340 batteries loosely with adapters or wraps, this is often impractical or unsafe due to less secure contacts or voltage and capacity disparities. Device manuals and manufacturer recommendations should guide battery choice for safety and performance.
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What Are the Typical Applications for Each Battery Type?
18350 batteries are favored in devices requiring higher capacity and robust performance, such as high-output flashlights, vape devices, and some specialized electronics. Meanwhile, 16340 batteries suit compact devices prioritizing smaller size and moderate capacity, including tactical flashlights, emergency lighting, and camera equipment due to their slim profile.
How Does Battery Chemistry Influence Their Performance?
Both 18350 and 16340 batteries commonly use lithium-ion chemistry, delivering stable voltage and energy density. The 18350’s increased volume allows for larger cells or better thermal management, supporting higher discharge currents sustainably. Quality brands like Redway Battery often include advanced cell design and battery management systems enhancing safety, cycle life, and performance in both sizes.
Can the Smaller 16340 Batteries Replace 18350 Batteries Safely?
Replacing a 18350 battery with a 16340 variant is not recommended without manufacturer approval. The smaller diameter may cause poor contact and unreliable performance. Additionally, the lower capacity of 16340 batteries could lead to shorter run times or sudden power loss. Using batteries not specified for your device risks damage and safety hazards.
What Safety Considerations Are Important When Using These Batteries?
Both 18350 and 16340 lithium-ion batteries require proper chargers and protection circuits to prevent overcharging, overheating, or short circuits. Using batteries from reputable manufacturers like Redway Battery ensures built-in safety features such as Battery Management Systems (BMS). Avoid mixing batteries of different sizes or chemistries in the same device.
How Does Charging and Cycle Life Compare for 18350 and 16340 Batteries?
Both batteries typically support 300 to 500 full charge cycles, though this may vary by manufacturer and usage. The larger capacity and size of 18350 cells can sometimes yield longer overall lifespan in use due to reduced strain per cycle. Adhering to recommended charging profiles tailored to lithium-ion cells, as implemented in Redway Battery’s products, optimizes longevity.
Redway Battery Expert Views
“A precise understanding of battery specifications such as size, capacity, and chemistry is essential for safe, efficient use,” states a senior engineer from Redway Battery. “While 18350 and 16340 batteries appear similar, their physical and performance differences matter in device compatibility and runtime. Our quality-assured products ensure optimal safety and durability tailored to user needs.”
Conclusion
18350 and 16340 batteries differ primarily in diameter and capacity despite sharing similar voltage characteristics. The 18350 is larger and offers greater capacity, ideal for higher-demand devices, whereas the 16340 suits compact electronics requiring smaller cells. Selecting the correct battery type is critical for device safety and optimal function. Trusted manufacturers like Redway Battery supply reliable 18350 and 16340 options with enhanced safety and performance features.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a 16340 battery instead of a 18350 battery?
A: Not usually, due to size differences affecting fit and contact reliability.
Q: Are 18350 and 16340 batteries rechargeable?
A: Yes, both are rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Q: What devices typically use 18350 batteries?
A: High-output flashlights, vape devices, and some specialized electronics.
Q: How do I know which battery my device needs?
A: Check the device’s manual or battery compartment for specifications.
Q: Does Redway Battery manufacture both 18350 and 16340 batteries?
A: Yes, Redway Battery offers high-quality versions of both sizes with advanced safety features.
What is a 16340 battery equivalent to?
A 16340 battery is roughly equivalent in size and shape to a CR123A battery, but unlike non-rechargeable CR123A cells, 16340 batteries are rechargeable lithium-ion cells with a nominal voltage of about 3.7V. They are often used as rechargeable replacements for CR123A batteries.
What is an 18350 battery?
An 18350 battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion cell measuring approximately 18mm in diameter and 35mm in length. It has a higher capacity (700-1200mAh) than the 16340 and is commonly used in high-drain devices like flashlights and vaping devices.
What is a 16340 battery?
A 16340 battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery measuring about 16mm diameter by 34mm length, similar to a CR123A battery size but rechargeable with around 500-1000mAh capacity and nominal 3.7V voltage. Used in compact electronics needing a high-energy rechargeable cell.
Is an 18350 battery the same as a CR123?
No, an 18350 battery is larger (18mm x 35mm) than a CR123 battery (approx. 16mm x 34mm). The CR123 is typically non-rechargeable with 3V, while the 18350 is rechargeable lithium-ion with a nominal voltage of 3.7V. They are not interchangeable without device compatibility.
What Is A 16340 Battery Used For?
A 16340 battery is used in compact, high-performance devices such as flashlights, laser pointers, and some cameras, serving as a rechargeable alternative to non-rechargeable CR123A batteries.
How Does 16340 Compare To 18650 Battery?
The 16340 is smaller (16mm x 34mm) with lower capacity (500-1000mAh) than the 18650 (18mm x 65mm, 1500-3500mAh). 18650 batteries provide higher capacity and longer runtime but are too large for devices designed for 16340 cells.
How Does 16340 Battery Compare To CR123A?
The 16340 battery and CR123A are very similar in size, but 16340 cells are rechargeable lithium-ion with 3.7V nominal voltage, while CR123A batteries are usually 3V non-rechargeable lithium batteries. Some devices may not support the higher voltage of 16340 batteries.
What Is The Difference Between 18350 And 16340?
The 18350 battery is larger (18mm diameter, 35mm length) with higher capacity (700-1200mAh) compared to the smaller 16340 (16mm x 34mm, 500-1000mAh). 18350 offers longer runtime but may not fit devices designed for 16340 batteries.
What Is Vapcell 16340 Battery?
The Vapcell 16340 battery is a branded lithium-ion rechargeable cell sized like a CR123A, offering high performance, safety features, and typical capacities around 700-850mAh for use in flashlights, vaping devices, and other portable electronics.
What Is An 18350 Battery Used For?
An 18350 battery powers high-drain devices like tactical flashlights, portable vaping devices, and electronics requiring a compact rechargeable battery with moderate capacity and reliable discharge rates.
Is A 16340 Battery Rechargeable?
Yes, the 16340 battery is rechargeable, typically using lithium-ion chemistry with voltages around 3.7V, making it a common rechargeable substitute for CR123A batteries in compatible devices.
What Are CR123A Batteries Used For?
CR123A batteries power cameras, tactical flashlights, alarms, and security devices. They are single-use lithium batteries known for high energy density and reliability in high-drain applications. Rechargeable alternatives include 16340 batteries.
