Electronic cigarette batteries primarily fall into two main categories: integrated (built-in) and removable (external). Understanding their differences is key to device selection and safe usage.
Integrated Batteries
Integrated batteries are built directly into the e-cigarette device and cannot be removed by the user. They are common in simpler devices like pod systems, vape pens, and disposable e-cigarettes.
- Characteristics:
- Charged via a USB port (Micro-USB, USB-C) directly on the device.
- Capacity and output are fixed by the manufacturer.
- The lifespan of the device is often tied to the lifespan of the integrated battery.
- Advantages: Simplicity of use, no need for separate chargers or knowledge of battery specifics beyond charging.
- Disadvantages: Once the battery degrades significantly, the entire device usually needs replacement. Typically offer lower maximum power output and capacity compared to systems using removable batteries.
Removable Batteries
Removable batteries are separate cells that can be inserted into and removed from more advanced e-cigarette devices, commonly known as “mods.” These require more user knowledge regarding battery specifications and safety.
- Characteristics:
- Typically charged using an external battery charger, which is recommended for optimal battery health and safety, though some mods offer USB charging.
- Allow users to swap out depleted batteries for fresh ones.
- Offer a wider range of capacities and discharge ratings.
- Advantages: Device lifespan is not limited by a single battery’s life. Ability to carry spare batteries. Potential for higher power output and longer usage times depending on the battery chosen.
- Disadvantages: Require careful handling, knowledge of battery safety, and the purchase of a separate external charger. Risk of using inappropriate or damaged batteries if not careful.
Common Removable Battery Sizes
The names of these batteries typically denote their physical dimensions (diameter and length). The most common types used in vaping are:
- 18650: Approximately 18mm in diameter and 65mm in length. This has been the most popular and widely used battery size for many years, offering a good balance of capacity and discharge capability.
- 20700: Approximately 20mm in diameter and 70mm in length. Offers a step up in capacity and/or discharge rating compared to 18650s.
- 21700: Approximately 21mm in diameter and 70mm in length. Generally provides higher capacity and/or higher discharge rates than both 18650 and 20700 batteries. Increasingly popular in newer devices.
- Less Common Sizes: While 18350, 18500, and 26650 exist, they are less prevalent in modern vaping devices.
Key Specifications & Safety for Removable Batteries
When using removable batteries, understanding these specifications is crucial:
- Chemistry: Most vape batteries are Lithium-ion. IMR (Lithium Manganese Oxide) and INR (Lithium Manganese Nickel) are preferred chemistries due to their safer failure characteristics and ability to handle high current demands. Avoid unprotected ICR (Lithium Cobalt Oxide) batteries for vaping applications, as they typically have lower discharge ratings and can be less stable.
- Capacity (mAh): Measured in milliampere-hours, this indicates the battery’s energy storage. A higher mAh generally means longer runtime between charges, but may sometimes mean a lower continuous discharge rating.
- Continuous Discharge Rating (CDR): Also known as Maximum Continuous Current, measured in Amperes (A). This is the maximum current that can be safely drawn from the battery without it overheating or venting. It is vital to use batteries with a CDR that meets or exceeds the demands of your device and chosen atomizer resistance.
- Voltage: Nominal voltage is typically 3.6V or 3.7V for these cells, with a fully charged voltage around 4.2V.
- Battery Safety Practices:
- Authenticity: Always purchase batteries from reputable, trusted vendors to avoid counterfeits, which can be extremely dangerous.
- Wraps: Regularly inspect battery wraps (the plastic coating) for any nicks, tears, or damage. If a wrap is damaged, the battery should be re-wrapped using a proper battery wrap or safely disposed of. Do not use batteries with damaged wraps.
- External Chargers: Use a quality external charger specifically designed for Li-ion batteries. This is generally safer and better for battery longevity than charging via the mod’s USB port (if available).
- Storage & Transport: Never carry loose batteries in pockets or bags where they can come into contact with keys, coins, or other metal objects, as this can cause a short circuit. Always use non-conductive battery cases or sleeves for transport.
- Avoid Extremes: Do not over-charge, over-discharge, or expose batteries to extreme temperatures.
- Marrying Batteries: For devices using multiple batteries, “marry” them – use them together, charge them together, and discharge them together, keeping them as a dedicated set.
