Choosing Between Li-ion 18650 vs 21700 - MaxAmps

11 Aug.,2025

 

Choosing Between Li-ion vs - MaxAmps

When it comes to deciding on the right battery for your UAV, UAS, or robotics needs, the choice between and lithium-ion cylindrical cells can be just as tricky as choosing between LiPo and Li-Ion batteries. Fortunately, MaxAmps is here to help.

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Pros of Li-ion Cells

Availability and Cost: The cell has been a reliable and widely used standard for years, making it easy to find and integrate into various applications. Given its widespread use, cells are often more affordable and available, providing flexibility in budgeting for your project.

Compact Size and Versatility: The 's smaller cell size compared to the makes it more suitable for compact builds where space is limited.

Lower Weight: That smaller size also means lighter weight, which is often preferred in situations where minimizing weight is crucial, such as UAVs designed for agility, speed, or both.

Cons of Li-Ion Cells

Lower Capacity: Compared to the , the has a smaller energy capacity, usually offering less runtime. This would often come into play for endurance-oriented applications where longer battery life is crucial.

Lower Discharge Rates: While the is a flexible option, it may not handle high current as efficiently as the . For your applications requiring more power, this can mean lower voltage under load and reduced performance.

Heat Management: Because of its compact size, the can heat up quickly in heavy discharge conditions, requiring additional thermal management solutions in high-performance builds.

Pros of Li-Ion Cells

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Higher Energy Density: The cell offers a higher energy density (Wh/kg) compared to the , allowing for longer runtimes and higher capacity. This is ideal for UAVs, or robotics where extended operational time is a priority.

Higher Discharge Capacity: The larger format allows the to handle higher current draws more effectively, maintaining stable voltage under intense load for longer. This is beneficial for high-power applications that demand consistent performance.

Improved Thermal Performance: Thanks to its increased surface area and volume, the can better disperse heat buildup, making it a safer option for projects with higher power demands.

Cons of Li-Ion Cells

Larger Size and Weight: That increased capacity and power of the do not come for free. That extra boost needs extra space, and the allows that by coming in at 68g per cell, (22g more than an cell) and an extra 5mm in length. This can often conflict with projects that require more compact power solutions.

Higher Cost: While the offers more power, the cost-per-cell is often higher than the . Budget conscious builders or those working on smaller-scale projects might find the a cheaper option.

Limited Compatibility: Given the larger dimensions and slightly less universal applications, the might not fit into setups designed for cells or, alternatively, could require additional modification to fit in your setup.

Conclusion

When deciding between Li-Ion and batteries, it’s crucial to consider your application’s needs. If you need a compact, lightweight, and cost-effective solution, the is a fantastic choice. However, if you prefer longer runtimes, higher energy density, and improved thermal management, the might fit your needs better.

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