26650 and 18650 lithium batteries are two common cylindrical batteries, and they have some differences in size, capacity, and application fields. Here are the main points of comparison between the two batteries:
18650 battery: Approximately 18 mm in diameter and 65 mm in length.
26650 battery: Approximately 26 mm in diameter and 65 mm in length.
Since the 26650 battery has a larger diameter, it is larger and can provide higher capacity and current output.
18650 battery: Usually the capacity is between 1800mAh and 3500mAh.
26650 battery: Wider capacity range, ranging from 3000mAh to 5000mAh, some even higher.
As a result, the 26650 battery typically offers a higher capacity due to its larger size, which means that the 26650 battery is able to provide a longer service life with the same power output.
18650 battery: Suitable for medium load applications, the common maximum continuous discharge current is between 20A and 30A.
26650 batteryDue to its larger size and better heat dissipation, it is able to provide a higher continuous discharge current, and the common maximum continuous discharge current can reach 50A.
18650 batteryDue to its standard size and wide range of capacities, it is commonly used in flashlights, laptop batteries, power tools, and some small electric vehicles, etc.
26650 battery: Typically used in applications that require higher energy density and higher current, such as high-performance flashlights, e-bikes, energy storage systems, and some special industrial equipment.
26650 battery: Heavier than the 18650 battery due to its larger size.
18650 battery: Lightweight, suitable for weight-sensitive applications.
In summary, which type of battery to choose depends on the needs of the specific application, including the required capacity, output current, and space constraints of the device. The 26650 battery offers higher capacity and output current, but is also larger in size and weight, while the 18650 battery is preferred by many consumers due to its smaller size and wide range of applications.