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18500 Batteries – Mid-Size Cylindrical Cells, The Balanced Choice for Power and Capacity
Welcome to our 18500 Batteries collection. The 18500 lithium-ion cell (approx. 18mm diameter × 50mm length) is a medium-length cylindrical cell positioned between the compact 18350 (35mm) and the standard 18650 (65mm). It shares the standard 18mm diameter of the 18650, ensuring compatibility with most 18650 chargers and device battery compartments in terms of diameter, while its compact 50mm length fits devices with tighter length constraints. Mainstream 18500 capacities range from 1000mAh to 2000mAh, available in NMC, IMR, and LiFePO₄ chemistries, serving applications including high-performance flashlights, tactical equipment, medical instruments, power tools, vaping devices, portable lighting, and various mid-sized portable electronics.
Core Advantages of 18500 Batteries
- 18650 Diameter, Shorter Length: 18mm diameter—identical to 18650—ensures broad charger and device compatibility. Length of only 50mm—about 15mm shorter than 18650—fits devices with strict length restrictions.
- Optimal Balance of Capacity and Size: Typical capacities of 1000mAh–2000mAh—roughly 1.5× to 2× that of same-diameter 18350 cells (700–1200mAh)—delivering extended runtime in a compact form factor.
- High Voltage Platform: NMC/IMR versions deliver a nominal 3.7V (full charge 4.2V)—approximately 3× the voltage of NiMH cells—providing robust power output.
- Flexible Chemistry Options: Available in high-energy NMC, high-drain IMR, and inherently safe LiFePO₄ formulations to meet diverse voltage, power, and safety requirements.
- Rechargeable – Economical & Eco-Friendly: Supports 500–1,000+ charge/discharge cycles. Replaces disposable primaries for lower long-term cost.
- Low Self-Discharge: Monthly self-discharge as low as 3% ensures readiness after extended storage.
18500 vs. 18350 vs. 18650 – Key Comparison
| Parameter | 18500 | 18350 | 18650 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ~18mm × ~50mm | ~18mm × ~35mm | ~18mm × ~65mm |
| Volume (approx.) | 12.7 cm³ | 8.9 cm³ | 16.5 cm³ |
| Typical Capacity Range | 1000mAh – 2000mAh | 700mAh – 1200mAh | 1500mAh – 3500mAh |
| Nominal Voltage | 3.2V (LiFePO₄) / 3.7V (NMC/IMR) | 3.2V / 3.7V | 3.2V / 3.7V |
| Energy (Wh) | 3.7Wh – 7.4Wh | 2.2Wh – 4.4Wh | 5.5Wh – 13Wh |
| Key Strengths | 18650 diameter compatible, moderate length | Shortest, ultra-compact spaces | Standard length, highest capacity |
| Typical Applications | Flashlights, medical devices, vaping | Mini flashlights, compact vapes | Universal across all categories |
Popular 18500 Cell Models – Quick Reference
| Model | Brand/Source | Chemistry | Nominal Capacity | Continuous Discharge | Dimensions (approx.) | Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| INR18500 2000mAh | Generic | NMC | 2000mAh | 5A–10A | 18×50mm | High-capacity NMC; top choice for flashlights & digital devices |
| IMR18500 1500mAh | Generic | IMR | 1500mAh | 10A–15A | 18×50mm | High-drain IMR; preferred for vaping & tactical lights |
| ICR18500 1800mAh | Generic | LiCoO₂ | 1800mAh | 3A–5A | 18×50mm | Balanced; general consumer electronics |
| IFR18500 1000mAh | Generic | LiFePO₄ | 1000mAh | 3A–5A | 18×50mm | LiFePO₄; high safety / long cycle life / 3.2V compatible |
| Vapcell INR18500 2000mAh | Vapcell | NMC | 2000mAh | 10A | 18×50mm | High-performance NMC; preferred for bright flashlights |
| Efest IMR18500 1500mAh | Efest | IMR | 1500mAh | 15A | 18×50mm | High-drain; vaping & tactical flashlight compatible |
| Keeppower Protected 18500 | Keeppower | NMC + PCB | 1800–2000mAh | 5A–8A | 18×51–52mm | Protected; consumer safety first choice |
Typical Specifications Range (18500)
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | 3.2V (LiFePO₄) / 3.6V–3.7V (NMC/IMR) |
| Full Charge Voltage | 3.65V (LiFePO₄) / 4.2V (NMC/IMR) |
| Capacity Range | 1000mAh – 2000mAh |
| Continuous Discharge Current | 3A – 15A (model dependent) |
| Internal Resistance | 20mΩ – 80mΩ |
| Cycle Life | 500 – 1500+ cycles (chemistry dependent) |
| Operating Temperature | Charge: 0°C~45°C / Discharge: -20°C~60°C |
| Dimensions | Diameter 17.8mm–18.5mm × Length 49.5mm–52.0mm (protected slightly longer) |
| Weight | Approx. 28g – 35g |
Typical Applications
| Application | Recommended Type | Suggested Models |
|---|---|---|
| High-performance flashlights / tactical lights | NMC High-Capacity / IMR High-Drain | Vapcell 2000mAh, Efest IMR18500 |
| Vaping / box mods | IMR High-Drain | Efest IMR18500 |
| Portable medical devices / monitors | LiFePO₄ / Protected | IFR18500 1000mAh, Keeppower Protected |
| Power tools / electric toys | IMR High-Drain | Efest IMR18500 |
| Industrial inspection / data terminals | NMC High-Capacity | Vapcell 2000mAh |
| Digital cameras / portable audio | NMC Balanced | ICR18500 1800mAh |
| Emergency lighting / security systems | LiFePO₄ | IFR18500 1000mAh |
How to Choose the Right 18500 Battery?
| Your Requirement | Recommended Type | Suggested Model |
|---|---|---|
| I need maximum capacity for flashlights or digital devices | NMC High-Capacity | Vapcell 2000mAh, INR18500 2000mAh |
| I need high current output for vaping or tactical lights | IMR High-Drain | Efest IMR18500 |
| I want built-in protection for worry-free use | Protected 18500 | Keeppower Protected 18500 |
| Safety is critical; for medical or emergency applications | LiFePO₄ | IFR18500 1000mAh |
| I need bulk quantities or custom packs | Contact our sales team | — |
⚠️ 18500 Battery Safety Guidelines
- Voltage Platform Awareness: 3.2V LiFePO₄ and 3.7V NMC/IMR cells cannot be mixed or charged with the same charger.
- Dimensional Fitment: 18500 length is ~50mm—about 15mm shorter than 18650. Some 18650 devices may not securely hold shorter cells; verify compatibility. Protected 18500s are slightly longer.
- Use a Quality Charger: 18500 cells are compatible with most 18650 Li-ion chargers. Select a reliable charger that explicitly supports 18500 format.
- Avoid Over-Discharge: Stop discharging when voltage drops below 2.5V–2.8V (NMC/IMR) or 2.0V–2.5V (LiFePO₄). Recharge promptly.
- 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 18500 Batteries?
- Genuine Grade-A Cells: Sourced from Vapcell, Efest, 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, IMR high-drain, protected, and LiFePO₄ series.
- 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 18500 cell for your application. For volume quotes or custom pack solutions, please contact our engineering team.















