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26500 Charger – Dedicated Chargers for 26mm Diameter High-Capacity Li-ion Cells, Precision & Safe Charging Management
Welcome to our 26500 Charger collection. The 26500 battery (approx. 26mm diameter × 50mm length) is a high-capacity cylindrical rechargeable Li-ion cell with a nominal voltage of 3.7V, full charge cut-off of 4.2V ±0.05V, and typical capacities ranging from 3200mAh to 4000mAh. Its unique combination of 26mm diameter and 50mm length shares the same diameter as the common 26650 (26mm × 65mm) but with a shorter length, making it ideal for high-lumen flashlights, night vision devices, thermal imaging equipment, digital cameras, portable medical instruments, and various compact portable electronic devices.
At only ~50mm long—about 15mm shorter than the 26650—the 26500 places special demands on slider adjustment range and negative terminal spring tension. This collection features high-quality Li-ion chargers fully compatible with 26500 cells from global professional brands like Nitecore and XTAR—ensuring your 26500 batteries are recharged in the safest, most efficient, and most precise manner.
26500 Battery Key Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Values |
|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | 3.7V |
| Full Charge Voltage | 4.2V ±0.05V |
| Discharge Cut-off Voltage | 2.75V (recommend timely recharge) |
| Typical Capacity Range | 3200mAh – 4000mAh |
| Dimensions (Dia. × Length) | ~26.0mm–26.5mm × 50.0mm–51.0mm |
| Standard Charge Current | 0.5C (~1.6A) |
| Max Continuous Discharge | 3C (~9.6A), peak 5C (~16A) |
| Cycle Life | 500–700 cycles |
| Weight | ~65g–68g |
26500 vs. Other Common Formats – Size Comparison
| Parameter | 26500 | 26650 | 21700 | 18650 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 26mm × 50mm | 26mm × 65mm | 21mm × 70mm | 18mm × 65mm |
| Typical Capacity | 3200–4000mAh | 3000–5500mAh | 3000–5800mAh | 1500–3500mAh |
| Diameter | 26mm | 26mm | 21mm | 18mm |
| Length | 50mm | 65mm | 70mm | 65mm |
| Key Characteristics | Short & stout, high capacity | Same diameter, larger capacity | New mainstream, highest density | Most standardized, lowest cost |
| Typical Applications | Night vision, thermal imaging, cameras | High-power flashlights, power tools | EVs, premium tools, storage | Universal across all categories |
Core Advantages of 26500 Chargers
- Perfect Size Compatibility with Secure Fit: At only ~50mm long—about 15mm shorter than 26650s—26500 cells require chargers with adjustable sliders. All chargers in this collection feature slider travel down to ~50mm, ensuring secure contact for short cells and preventing charging interruptions or high contact resistance.
- Widely Compatible with Mainstream Charger Brands: Many multi-function chargers that support 26650 also support 26500. Confirmed compatible chargers include: Nitecore Ci2, Nitecore New i4, Nitecore Q6, Nitecore UI1, Nitecore UM4, Nitecore i8, XTAR MC2, XTAR VC8S, XTAR MC6C, Fitorch Lii-M4S, PUJIMAX 2/4-bay chargers, Alonefire A1, and more.
- Multi-Chemistry Auto-Detection: Most chargers in this collection support automatic detection of both Li-ion (3.7V) and NiMH (1.2V) chemistries. Select professional models also support LiFePO₄ (3.2V) mode, ensuring each battery type terminates at the correct voltage to prevent overcharging.
- Precision Adaptive Charging Current: With typical capacities of 3200mAh–4000mAh, 26500 cells charge best at 0.5A–1.6A. These chargers support adaptive or manually adjustable currents to prevent damage from excessive current and extend battery lifespan.
- CC/CV Smart Charging Management: Utilizes constant-current/constant-voltage (CC/CV) charging profile with automatic battery state detection. Charging terminates precisely at 4.2V ±0.05V, effectively preventing overcharging and ensuring battery safety. Some chargers also feature 0V activation to rescue over-discharged batteries.
- Multiple Safety Protections: Built-in overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, short-circuit, reverse polarity, and overheat protection for comprehensive charging safety. Most products feature ABS fire-retardant housing and are certified to CE, FCC, and RoHS international safety standards.
- Independent Charging Channels: Multi-bay chargers control each slot independently—mix 26500, 26650, 18650, 21700, and other cell sizes with different charge levels without interference.
- LCD Digital Display: Mid-to-high-end models feature high-definition LCD screens displaying real-time charging voltage, current, accumulated capacity, and internal resistance—charging status at a glance.
Popular 26500 Charger Models – Quick Reference
| Category | Model | Bays | Charge Current | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Bay Smart Charger | Nitecore Ci2 | 2 | Up to 3A (single bay) | USB-C input, QC/PD fast charge, 30+ sizes including 26500 |
| 4-Bay Smart Charger | Nitecore New i4 | 4 | Up to 1.5A×1 | ACD dynamic current distribution, 26500/26650/21700 compatible |
| 6-Bay Smart Charger | Nitecore Q6 | 6 | Up to 2A (single bay) | 6 independent channels, activates over-discharged protected cells |
| Single-Bay Portable | Nitecore UI1 | 1 | Up to 1A | USB-C input, ultra-light, 4.2V ±1% precise cut-off |
| 2-Bay Portable | XTAR MC2 | 2 | 0.5A×2 | USB input, ultra-portable, 26500/26650 compatible |
| 4-Bay Universal Charger | PUJIMAX 4-Bay | 4 | Auto-adaptive | 26500/26650/26700/22650/18650 compatible |
| 8-Bay Analyzer Charger | XTAR VC8S | 8 | 0.25A–3A (adjustable) | Capacity test, IR detection, 0V activation, 26500 compatible |
| Single-Bay Smart Charger | Alonefire A1 | 1 | 2A | USB-C input, low-voltage activation, multiple protections |
Typical Specifications Range (26500 Chargers)
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Input Power | USB 5V / Type-C / QC3.0 / PD3.0 / DC 12V |
| Charge Cutoff Voltage | 4.2V ±0.05V (Li-ion) / 3.65V (LiFePO₄) / 1.45V–1.5V (NiMH) |
| Charge Current Range | 0.1A – 3A (adjustable/adaptive) |
| Supported Cell Sizes | 10440 / 14500 / 16340 / 17500 / 18350 / 18500 / 18650 / 20700 / 21700 / 22650 / 25500 / 26500 / 26650 / 26700, etc. |
| Protection Features | Overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, short-circuit, reverse polarity, overheat |
| Display Type | LED indicators / LCD digital display |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C – 40°C |
Typical Applications
| Application Scenario | Recommended Charger | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Travel / on-the-go charging for 26500 night vision/thermal imaging cells | Single-bay USB portable (Nitecore UI1 / Alonefire A1) | Ultra-compact, USB plug-and-charge, power bank compatible |
| Daily home use, charging 1–2 26500 cells | 2-bay smart charger (Nitecore Ci2 / XTAR MC2) | Independent channels, clear charging status, secure fit |
| Multi-device user; charge 26500, 18650, 26650, NiMH together | 4-bay smart charger (Nitecore New i4) | Compatible with Li-ion/NiMH/LiFePO₄, one charger does it all |
| Need capacity & IR testing for cell matching | 8-bay analyzer charger (XTAR VC8S) | Capacity testing and IR detection for precise matching |
| Battery pack assembly / multi-device user; need batch charging | 6-bay smart charger (Nitecore Q6) | 6 independent channels, activates over-discharged protected cells |
How to Choose the Right 26500 Charger?
| Your Requirement | Recommended Type | Suggested Model |
|---|---|---|
| I only charge 26500 cells and need maximum portability | Single-bay USB portable | Nitecore UI1, Alonefire A1 |
| I want real-time charging data monitoring, daily home use | 2/4-bay smart charger | Nitecore Ci2, Nitecore New i4 |
| I have multiple cell types (26500/18650/26650/NiMH) and need one universal charger | 4-bay smart charger | Nitecore New i4 |
| I need to charge multiple cells (3+) simultaneously | 6/8-bay smart/analyzer charger | Nitecore Q6, XTAR VC8S |
| I need to test capacity and IR for cell matching | 8-bay analyzer charger | XTAR VC8S |
| I need bulk quantities or custom charging solutions | Contact our sales team | — |
⚠️ 26500 Charger Safety Guidelines
- Distinguish Battery Chemistry: 3.7V Li-ion (full charge 4.2V), 3.2V LiFePO₄ (full charge 3.65V), and 1.2V NiMH (full charge 1.45V) require different modes—do not mix. Ensure the charger has correctly identified or manually set the appropriate mode before charging. Never charge a NiMH battery with a Li-ion charger, or vice versa—this can lead to overheating, reduced lifespan, or even safety hazards.
- Verify Size Compatibility: 26500 cells are ~50mm long—about 15mm shorter than 26650s. Before purchase, confirm the charger's slider travel reaches 50mm and can securely hold 26500 cells.
- Select Appropriate Charge Current: 26500 cells charge best at 0.5A–1.6A. If manual setting is available, select an appropriate current based on battery specifications.
- Avoid Extreme Temperature Charging: The ideal charging temperature for Li-ion batteries is 10°C–45°C. Never charge batteries below freezing (0°C/32°F)—this can cause permanent, dangerous metallic lithium plating inside the cell. Keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight; ensure good ventilation during charging.
- Avoid Overcharge and Over-Discharge: Although chargers feature auto-termination, keeping batteries at 100% charge for extended periods accelerates aging. Ideally, charge to 80%–90% for better battery protection. Avoid deep discharge below 2.75V.
- Remove After Full Charge: Prolonged connection to power may still affect battery longevity. Remove batteries promptly after charging.
Why Choose Our 26500 Chargers?
- Genuine Brand Products: Chargers from Nitecore, XTAR, and other global professional charger brands—reliable quality with full safety certifications.
- Precisely Compatible with 26500: Curated selection of models supporting 26mm diameter and 50mm length with secure grip—eliminates compatibility issues.
- Multi-Chemistry Compatibility: Select models support Li-ion, NiMH, and LiFePO₄ batteries—one charger for multiple needs.
- One-Stop Shopping: 26500 batteries, chargers, and accessories all in one place—save time and effort.
- Flexible Purchasing: Single-unit retail and bulk wholesale options available for both individual and enterprise needs.
- Certified & Safe: CE, FCC, RoHS certifications ensure quality and safety.
- Expert Technical Support: Guidance on charger selection, usage tips, and after-sales support.
👇👇👇 Browse the product list below to find the perfect 26500 Charger for your needs. For volume quotes or technical inquiries, please contact our customer service team.








