📖 Click to view full specifications, comparison & safety guide
16500 Batteries – Medium-Length Cylindrical Cells, The Ideal Balance of Capacity and Size
Welcome to our 16500 Batteries collection. The 16500 lithium-ion cell (approx. 16mm diameter × 50mm length) is a medium-length cylindrical cell positioned between the compact 16340 (34mm) and the extended 16650 (65mm). It retains the same ~16mm diameter while offering a moderate 50mm length, delivering 40%–80% more capacity than the 16340 within a limited space, and remaining slimmer than the 18650 for devices with strict diameter constraints. Mainstream 16500 capacities range from 800mAh to 1200mAh, available in both NMC (ternary lithium) and LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) chemistries. It serves a wide range of applications including tactical flashlights, laser rangefinders, portable medical devices, industrial inspection instruments, digital cameras, and mid-sized portable equipment with specific length and diameter requirements.
Core Advantages of 16500 Batteries
- Medium Length – Balanced Capacity and Size: Length of ~50mm—about 16mm longer than 16340 and 15mm shorter than 18650; diameter of ~16mm—about 2mm slimmer than 18650. This unique dimensional combination fits devices with specific size restrictions while delivering longer runtime than shorter cells.
- Significantly Higher Capacity Than Compact Cells: Typical capacities of 800mAh–1200mAh—roughly 1.4× to 1.8× that of same-diameter 16340 cells (500–900mAh)—providing substantially extended runtime.
- High Voltage Platform: NMC versions deliver a nominal 3.7V (full charge 4.2V)—approximately 3× the voltage of NiMH cells—providing more power output.
- Rechargeable – Economical & Eco-Friendly: Supports 500–1,000+ charge/discharge cycles. Replaces disposable lithium primaries for lower long-term cost and reduced battery waste.
- Flexible Chemistry Options: Available in both high-energy NMC (3.7V) and inherently safe LiFePO₄ (3.2V) formulations to meet diverse voltage and safety requirements.
- Low Self-Discharge: Monthly self-discharge as low as 3% ensures readiness even after extended storage—ideal for intermittently used professional equipment.
16500 vs. 16340 vs. 16650 vs. 18650 – Key Comparison
| Parameter | 16500 | 16340 | 16650 | 18650 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ~16mm × ~50mm | ~16mm × ~34mm | ~16mm × ~65mm | ~18mm × ~65mm |
| Volume (approx.) | 10.1 cm³ | 6.8 cm³ | 13.1 cm³ | 16.5 cm³ |
| Typical Capacity Range | 800mAh – 1200mAh | 500mAh – 900mAh | 1500mAh – 2500mAh | 1500mAh – 3500mAh |
| Nominal Voltage | 3.2V (LiFePO₄) / 3.7V (NMC) | 3.2V / 3.7V | 3.2V / 3.7V | 3.2V / 3.7V |
| Energy (Wh) | 3.0Wh – 4.4Wh | 1.6Wh – 3.3Wh | 5.5Wh – 9.3Wh | 5.5Wh – 13Wh |
| Key Strengths | Medium length, balanced capacity and size | Shortest, fits compact spaces | Largest capacity in same diameter | Larger diameter, highest capacity |
| Typical Applications | Tactical lights, medical devices, industrial instruments | Micro tactical lights, laser sights | Long-runtime lights, professional gear | Universal across all categories |
Popular 16500 Cell Models – Quick Reference
| Model | Brand/Source | Chemistry | Nominal Capacity | Continuous Discharge | Dimensions (approx.) | Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| INR16500 1200mAh | Generic | NMC | 1200mAh | 2A–3A | 16×50mm | High-capacity NMC; top choice for flashlights & digital devices |
| ICR16500 1000mAh | Generic | LiCoO₂ | 1000mAh | 1A–1.5A | 16×50mm | Balanced; general consumer electronics |
| IFR16500 800mAh | Generic | LiFePO₄ | 800mAh | 1A–2A | 16×50mm | LiFePO₄; high safety / long cycle life / 3.2V compatible |
| Vapcell INR16500 1200mAh | Vapcell | NMC | 1200mAh | 3A | 16×50mm | High-performance NMC; preferred for bright flashlights |
| Keeppower Protected 16500 | Keeppower | NMC + PCB | 1000–1100mAh | 2A–3A | 16×51–52mm | Protected; consumer safety first choice |
Typical Specifications Range (16500)
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | 3.2V (LiFePO₄) / 3.6V–3.7V (NMC) |
| Full Charge Voltage | 3.65V (LiFePO₄) / 4.2V (NMC) |
| Capacity Range | 800mAh – 1200mAh |
| Continuous Discharge Current | 1A – 3A (model dependent) |
| Internal Resistance | 50mΩ – 100mΩ |
| Cycle Life | 500 – 1500+ cycles (chemistry dependent) |
| Operating Temperature | Charge: 0°C~45°C / Discharge: -20°C~60°C |
| Dimensions | Diameter 15.5mm–16.5mm × Length 49.5mm–52.0mm (protected slightly longer) |
| Weight | Approx. 20g – 25g |
Typical Applications
| Application | Recommended Type | Suggested Models |
|---|---|---|
| Tactical flashlights / mid-sized EDC lights | NMC High-Capacity | Vapcell 1200mAh, INR16500 1200mAh |
| Laser rangefinders / laser sights | NMC Balanced | ICR16500 1000mAh |
| Portable medical devices / monitors | LiFePO₄ / Protected | IFR16500 800mAh, Keeppower Protected |
| Industrial inspection instruments / data terminals | NMC High-Capacity | Vapcell 1200mAh |
| Digital cameras / voice recorders | NMC High-Capacity | INR16500 1200mAh |
| Emergency lighting / security systems | LiFePO₄ | IFR16500 800mAh |
| Wireless sensors / IoT terminals | LiFePO₄ | IFR16500 800mAh |
How to Choose the Right 16500 Battery?
| Your Requirement | Recommended Type | Suggested Model |
|---|---|---|
| I need maximum capacity for flashlights or digital devices | NMC High-Capacity | Vapcell 1200mAh, INR16500 1200mAh |
| I want built-in protection for worry-free use | Protected 16500 | Keeppower Protected 16500 |
| Safety is critical; for medical or emergency applications | LiFePO₄ | IFR16500 800mAh |
| I need bulk quantities or custom packs | Contact our sales team | — |
⚠️ 16500 Battery Safety Guidelines
- Voltage Platform Awareness: 3.2V LiFePO₄ and 3.7V NMC cells cannot be mixed or charged with the same charger. Always verify device and charger compatibility.
- Precise Dimensional Matching: The 16500 is ~50mm long—longer than 16340 and shorter than 16650. Carefully measure your device's battery compartment before purchase to ensure it can accommodate a ~50mm cell.
- Charger Compatibility: The 16500 length is similar to 18500 cells and can be charged in chargers that support 18500/16500 formats. Some 18650 chargers are also compatible—verify that the charger can securely hold 16mm diameter × 50mm length cells.
- Avoid Over-Discharge: Stop discharging when voltage drops below 2.5V–2.8V (NMC) or 2.0V–2.5V (LiFePO₄). Recharge promptly to prevent permanent capacity loss.
- Avoid Short Circuits & Overheating: Do not short the terminals. Keep away from heat, moisture, and metal objects.
- Discontinue if Damaged: Stop using cells with torn wraps, dents, or leakage. Recycle responsibly.
Why Choose Our 16500 Batteries?
- Genuine Grade-A Cells: Sourced from Vapcell, Keeppower, and other reputable manufacturers. 100% authentic—no recycled or counterfeit cells.
- Fully Tested & Matched: Every batch undergoes capacity grading, IR testing, and voltage sorting. Industrial-grade matching services available.
- Complete Portfolio: Covers NMC high-capacity, protected, and LiFePO₄ series—one-stop for all medium-length 16mm diameter Li-ion needs.
- Flexible Purchasing: Single-cell retail, multi-pack discounts, tiered bulk pricing, and custom pack assembly.
- Certified & Documented: UN38.3, MSDS, CE, RoHS documentation provided for seamless international shipping.
- Expert Technical Support: Guidance on cell selection, pack design, BMS integration, and after-sales service.
👇👇👇 Browse the product list below and filter by capacity or chemistry to find the perfect 16500 cell for your application. For volume quotes or custom pack solutions, please contact our engineering team.
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