18650 Battery – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

An 18650 Battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion cell measuring 18 mm in diameter and 65 mm in length—hence the name “18-650.” In vaping, it serves as the portable power source for most single- and dual-battery vape mods, delivering current to heat the coil and produce vapour. Its high energy density, reliability, and widespread availability make it the default choice for beginner and advanced Australian vapers alike.

Technical Details

How It Works

The cell stores energy as lithium ions moving between graphite (negative) and metal-oxide (positive) electrodes. When the fire button is pressed, the circuit closes, allowing electrons to flow through the Thread“>510 thread connection to the atomiser coil.

Specifications & Common Types

  • Capacity: 2 000 – 3 500 mAh (higher mAh = longer vape time)
  • Continuous Discharge Rating (CDR): 10 A – 35 A; choose a CDR that exceeds your coil’s amp draw
  • Voltage: 4.2 V fully charged, nominal 3.7 V, cut-off 2.5 V
  • Variations: Flat-top (most common), button-top, protected (with PCB) and unprotected (preferred for regulated mods)
  • Alternatives:21700 battery (higher capacity), 26650 battery (larger size)

Usage & Tips

  • Married Pairs: If your device uses two 18650 batteries, buy them together, keep them together, and charge them together to prevent imbalance.
  • Charging: Use an external charger; avoid USB charging on cheap dual-battery mods.
  • Wrap Damage: Stop using the cell if the PVC sleeve is torn—rewrap or replace to prevent shorts.
  • Storage: Keep at 3.6 – 3.8 V (≈40 % charge) in a plastic case away from coins, keys, and Australian summer heat.
  • Safety: Never exceed the battery’s CDR; check Resistance“>coil resistance and select Nicotine“>3mg nicotine or 0mg nicotine e-liquids that suit your wattage, not the other way round.

History & Context

Originally designed for laptop battery packs in the mid-1990s, the 18650 format was adopted by early e-cigarette makers around 2008 because its proven lithium-cobalt chemistry offered unmatched energy density. Today, despite the rise of 21700 and 26650 cells, the 18650 remains the industry standard due to massive economies of scale and universal charger compatibility.

Share the Post: