The Ultimate Guide to the Best Vape Batteries
Your definitive guide to vape batteries, including the difference between internal and external batteries and what the different sizes mean.
When it comes to vaping, the battery you choose can make or break your experience. This guide is straightforward—it gets right to the point of helping you determine the best vape batteries for your device from the wide range of options and how to maintain their peak performance.
Learn about the essential differences between battery types and how to extend their life with proper care, all without extra fuss.
Key Takeaways
- Vape batteries are classified into internal (non-removable) and external (removable) types, where internal batteries are convenient but potentially less long-lasting, and external ones offer more flexibility and capacity for heavy users.
- 18650, 21700, 20700, and 26650 batteries offer different advantages in terms of power and capacity, with 18650 being the most popular due to balance in power and compatibility, while others like the 21700 provide higher power for heavy vaping.
- Proper battery maintenance, including using the correct charging equipment, safe storage and transportation, and responsible disposal, is essential for maximizing battery life and ensuring vaping safety.
Understanding Vape Batteries: Types and Functions
Your vape device houses a powerhouse: the vape battery. Just like the human heart pumps blood to keep us going, the lithium-ion vape battery delivers power to produce that satisfying vapour.
But not all lithium-ion batteries are created equal. There are a few main types, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
Your device’s power system relies heavily on internal and external vape batteries. Internal batteries are built into your device and can’t be removed, while external batteries can be swapped out and replaced as needed. This simple difference has substantial implications for how you use and care for your device.
Internal Vape Batteries
Internal vape batteries serve as a dedicated power source for your vape device. They’re integrated into the device and their capacity is measured in mAh (milli-amp hours). The higher the mAh rating, the longer your battery life.
The downside? Well, nothing lasts forever.
Over time, these batteries degrade and can’t be replaced, which might mean saying goodbye to your device in about a year. But, with good care and proper charging practices, you can extend the life of your battery and keep your vape pumping out that satisfying vapour for a good long time.
External Vape Batteries
In contrast to internal batteries, external lithium-ion vape batteries provide more flexibility as they can be removed and replaced. You can think of them as rechargeable power packs that you can swap out when they run out of juice.
External vape batteries come in different main types, from the popular 18650 battery to high-capacity options like the 21700 battery.
The benefits of external batteries include:
- Extending the life of your vape mod
- Higher capacity and power output for longer vaping sessions
- Easy recharging using an external charger
- You can carry a spare to replace your dead battery when needed
Choosing the Right Vape Battery for Your Vape Mod
Selecting the appropriate battery is all about balancing power and longevity to deliver the best vaping experience. And with a wide range of options, from the versatile 18650 battery to the high-capacity 21700 and the specialty sizes of 20700 and 26650, there’s a battery out there to suit every vape kit and every vaper.
However, size isn’t the only factor to consider. Different batteries offer different benefits and are suited to different kinds of vaping. For instance:
- The 18650 is great for balanced power in both mouth-to-lung and direct-to-lung vaping
- The 21700 offers higher power for sub-ohm and high-wattage vaping
- The 20700 and 26650 batteries cater to specific devices and vaping needs
18650 Batteries
If there was a popularity contest for vape batteries, the 18650 battery would take the crown. It’s a lithium-ion rechargeable battery known for its high power output, compatibility with a variety of vape mods, and widespread availability.
They have a nominal capacity of 2500mAh and a nominal voltage of 3.6V, making them a solid choice for most vapers.
But remember, not all 18650 batteries are created equal. Some are designed for high capacity, while others are designed for high discharge. And some are just great all-rounders. Every 18650 battery has an 18mm diameter and a 65mm height.
When choosing your 18650 battery, it’s important to consider your vaping habits and mod requirements to get the best performance.
21700 Batteries
For those vapers who like to live life on the edge, the 21700 battery offers a bit more power and capacity. It’s larger than the 18650 battery with a 21mm diameter and a 70mm height, with a higher mAh rating and greater energy density, making it a great choice for sub-ohm and high-wattage vaping.
But don’t rush to switch just yet. While the 21700 offers more power, it’s also heavier and larger, and might not fit all mods. Plus, it tends to be more costly compared to the 18650 battery.
However, if your device can accommodate it and you’re a heavy vaper, the 21700 could be your new best friend.
Other Battery Sizes: 20700 and 26650
While the 18650 and 21700 batteries might be the most popular kids on the block, there are other battery sizes that are worth a look. The 20700 and 26650 batteries offer a different set of benefits, making them a good match for specific mods and vaping needs.
The 20700 battery, for instance, allows for the creation of smaller and lighter vaping devices, while still offering great battery lifespan and energy storage. On the other hand, the 26650 battery is a heavyweight champion, with a larger size and mAh rating that makes it a good fit for high-powered mods and certain specialty models.
Battery Make-Up
Vape batteries come with a range of different chemical makeups. Each formulation has its own set of pros and cons, and getting the one best suited to your vaping style is crucial for a satisfying vape experience.
You’ll know which type of battery you’re getting based on the letters printed on them. Let’s talk a little about what those letters mean.
INR Batteries
Many of the most popular vape batteries, including your average 18650 battery, use this lithium-manganese-nickel hybrid build, as it carries many of the benefits of an IMR battery, but with added current, battery capacity, and temperature.
IMR Batteries
IMR batteries are made from a mixture of lithium-manganese. These batteries are great for large flows of electricity without significant temperature rises.
This means that if you’re using IMR batteries, you’re less likely to experience overheating with your vape. It also means that your vape doesn’t need any protective circuitry, as it’s safe from overheating. IMR batteries are both safe and lightweight.
ICR Batteries
ICR batteries are high-energy lithium-cobalt batteries which require extra circuitry to ensure that they’re safe to use.
This type of battery is often accompanied by protective circuitry from a third-party manufacturer, making them less trustworthy and a bit more unpredictable than your other standard battery types.
Maximizing Battery Life and Performance
Consider your vape battery as an investment. You want to get the most out of it, right? That’s where battery maintenance comes in. By following a few simple tips and tricks, you can maximize your battery life and performance, ensuring your vape always delivers the power you need when you need it.
From proper charging practices to using external battery chargers and ensuring safe storage and transportation, there’s a lot you can do to keep your vape battery in top shape. Let’s delve into the specifics to learn how to maximize the efficiency of our vape batteries.
Proper Charging Practices
The way you recharge your vape battery significantly affects its lifespan and performance. Overcharging can lead to increased temperature, stress on the battery cells, and a gradual loss of capacity. And using the wrong charger can be dangerous and damage your batteries.
The trick is to use the recommended charger for your vape batteries and to charge them for the right amount of time. This can vary depending on your vape pen, but a full charge usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours. And remember, a little patience can go a long way in extending the life of your vape batteries!
External Vape Battery Chargers
For those using external batteries, an external vape battery charger is one of the most vital vaping accessories to revolutionize your experience alongside a high-quality wall plug.
These chargers offer a safer and more efficient way to charge your batteries, reducing the risk of overcharging or overheating and helping to prolong your battery’s lifespan.
When it comes to choosing an external charger, quality is key. Top-rated options like the Efest Slim K2 and the Xtar X2 are known for their reliability and advanced safety features, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews.
Remember, using the right charger with the appropriate plug to recharge your batteries is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure they perform at their best, and it’s worth considering the price of a quality charger.
Safe Storage and Transportation
Proper storage and transportation are as important to your vape battery’s health as good charging practices. Keeping your batteries in a cool, dark place can extend their lifespan and reduce potential hazards. And when you’re on the move, a protective casing is a must to prevent short-circuiting and other potential damage.
Temperature is also a key factor. Both high and low temperatures can affect your battery’s performance and safety, so it’s best to keep them at room temperature when not in use. And when it comes to storage containers, dedicated cases, sleeves, or specific battery storage boxes are the way to go to ensure your batteries are well-protected.
Vape Battery Safety: What You Need to Know
In vaping, prioritizing safety is paramount. And since your vape battery is the heart of your vape kit, understanding how to use and care for it safely is crucial. From recognizing and addressing damaged batteries to managing temperature, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to vape battery safety.
Whether you’re a seasoned vaper or just starting out, being aware of the potential risks and knowing how to avoid them can make all the difference. Let’s delve deeper into the necessary knowledge to ensure a safe and satisfying vaping experience.
Above all else, remember these key safety tips:
- Always use a battery charger that is rated for Li-Ion cells
- Batteries should never be left charging unattended
- Batteries should never be loose in pocket or bag (use case provided)
- A lithium-ion battery should be replaced every 2 years
- Never use a battery with a broken PVC wrap
- Never completely discharge batteries
Recognizing and Addressing Damaged Batteries
Primarily, recognizing a damaged vape battery is crucial. Overheating, reduced capacity, rust, leaks, and physical damage like cracks or bumps are all signs that your flat top battery may be damaged and needs to replace.
If you spot any of these signs, stop using the battery immediately. Handle leaking batteries with gloves and be sure to store them securely until you can dispose of them properly. And remember, the best way to prevent damage is to take good care of your batteries in the first place.
Heat Management
Heat can be a battery’s worst enemy. Too much can damage your battery and pose a risk to your safety. The internal resistance in a vape battery can increase when operating at low temperatures, leading to higher heat generation during use.
When using your vape, it’s best to keep the operating temperature between 177-204°C. This range provides a satisfying vaping experience while also keeping your battery safe. And of course, always remember to let your vape cool down between uses to prevent overheating.
Disposing and Recycling Vape Batteries
Responsibly disposing off your vape battery is essential once it reaches its life’s end. Improperly discarded vape batteries can pose serious environmental risks, releasing harmful materials into the environment.
So, how do you dispose of your vape batteries the right way? Simple! Just take them to a dedicated electrical or battery recycling point. This ensures that they are recycled safely and responsibly, keeping both you and the environment safe.
Summary: Power to Your Vape!
Choosing the correct vape battery, although not an easy task, plays a critical role in the vaping experience. Whether you prefer the longevity and built-in convenience of internal batteries, the flexibility and power of external batteries, or a specific size like the 18650 or 21700, there’s a vape battery out there to power your vape just the way you like it.
But remember, power isn’t everything. Caring for your vape battery, from proper charging and storage to recognizing and addressing damage, is just as important. After all, a well-cared-for battery is a powerful battery. So, empower your vape and enjoy the journey!
So there you have it, vapers! Your guide to powering your vape and getting the best performance out of your batteries. From understanding the different types and sizes of batteries to choosing the right one for your mod, maintaining it for optimal performance, and ensuring your safety, we’ve covered it all.
As you continue your vaping journey, remember that the power is in your hands. So, take charge, vape safe, and vape on!
