18650 Flat Top Battery: Recommend Top 10 Options

By Henry, Updated on September 20, 2024

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18650 flat-top batteries ensure seamless integration into different devices and mean fewer connectivity complications, ensuring a reliable and consistent power supply. These batteries are power-driven and perform to corporate needs, which are fundamental. However, these batteries are in demand due to their use’s effectiveness.

This guide will walk you through the most reliable flat-top 18650 batteries on the market.

Part 1. What is an 18650 flat-top battery?

An 18650 flat-top battery is a lithium-ion battery. However, there is one significant difference from this part; this part does not have an overhanging terminal of the button-top battery.

This flat surface makes it compatible with a broader range of devices, offering flexibility. This unique design makes it compatible with a wide range of devices that require a flush connection.

Whether using them in high-drain electronics or everyday gadgets, this simple yet efficient design proves its worth by optimizing performance and usability.

Key features of 18650 Flat Top Batteries

High energy capacity.
Stable voltage output (around 3.7V).
Rechargeable with a long lifespan.
Compact design, making them suitable for many devices.
Lithium-ion chemistry for reliable performance and minimal memory effect.

Flat Top vs Button Top

Flat Top: The positive terminal is level with the rest of the battery, making it ideal for devices that rely on battery contact through pressure, like vape mods or sure flashlights.
Button Top: This button top features a raised positive terminal, which helps ensure connection in devices that require more pronounced contact points, such as remotes or radios.

Part 2. Top 10 18650 flat top batteries

1. Ufine 3.6 V 3000mAh 18650 Battery

Specifications:

Voltage: 3.6V
Capacity: 3000mAh
Size: 18650 format
Max Discharge Rate: 5.0C for high power bursts
Weight: Approx. 45g

Pros:

Reliable power for various applications.
Long cycle life, extending battery lifespan.
Ultra-low self-discharge.
Supports A-grade cells.
Overcharge and short circuit protection ensure safety.

Cons:

There is no built-in PCM for additional protection.

2. Samsung 25R Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 2500mAh
Discharge Rate: 20A
Voltage: 3.6V
Size: Flat-top design.
Weight: 43.04g

Pros:

High continuous discharge rate, ideal for demanding applications.
Stable lithium-ion chemistry for safe, reliable use.
Rechargeable, offering cost savings over time.
The compact size is easy to integrate into devices.
Widely respected for versatility across multiple industries.

Cons:

Not suitable for e-cig or vape use.
Unprotected, requiring careful use in high-drain devices.

3. Sony VTC6 Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 3000mAh
Discharge Rate: 15A continuous, 30A max
Voltage: 3.6V
Size: 18.5mm x 65.2mm
Weight: 46.6g

Pros:

High capacity for extended use
Adaptable discharge rates
Reliable under demanding conditions
Ideal for battery packs with BMS
Trusted brand performance

Cons:

Unprotected, needs external safety
Not for standalone use

4. LG HG2 Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 3000mAh
Discharge Current: 20A
Type: flat top
Voltage: 3.7V (4.2V Full Charge)

Pros:

High capacity for extended use
20A discharge current for powerful performance
UL Certified with RoHS, CE, and MSDS compliance
Multi-protection design for enhanced safety
Versatile use

Cons:

Slightly larger diameter may affect compatibility
Limited to specific applications, like vaping and laser pointers

5. Panasonic NCR18650B Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 3400mAh
Discharge Rate: 4.9A continuous
Voltage: 3.6V
Type: flat top
Weight: 45.5g

Pros:

High capacity for extended use
Rechargeable, cost-effective
Reliable for low to mid-power devices
Compact and lightweight
Trusted brand with consistent quality

Cons:

Low discharge rate, not ideal for high-power needs
Unprotected, requires careful handling

6. Molicel P28A 18650 Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 2800mAh
Discharge Rate: 35A continuous
Voltage: 3.6V
Size: 18.50mm x 65.15mm
Weight: 45.18g

Pros:

High discharge rate for powerful applications
Long-lasting charge with 2800mAh capacity
Reliable brand with excellent performance
Compact size for easy portability
Rechargeable, reducing replacement costs

Cons:

Unprotected, requires external safety measures
Not ideal for low-power devices

7. Sanyo NCR18650GA Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 3500mAh
Discharge Rate: 10A continuous
Voltage: 3.6V
Type: flat top
Weight: 48g

Pros:

High capacity for extended usage
Reliable performance with a 10A discharge rate
Ideal for e-bikes and electric vehicles
Rechargeable, cost-effective over time
Trusted brand with authentic quality

Cons:

Not suitable for high-drain e-cigarette applications
Unprotected, requires additional safety measures

8. Hohm Tech Life 18650 Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 3015mAh
Discharge Rate: 22.1A continuous
Voltage: 3.65V nominal
Type: flat top
Weight: 49.6g

Pros:

High discharge rate for demanding applications
Increased capacity for extended use
Advanced chemistry for improved performance
Fast charging with up to 4.43A rate
Durable design with enhanced safety features

Cons:

Unprotected, requires external safety measures
Higher price compared to standard batteries

9. Efest IMR18650 Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 2500mAh
Discharge Rate: 20A continuous
Voltage: 3.7V nominal
Size: 18.22mm x 64.94mm
Weight: 44.4g

Pros:

High discharge rate for intense power demands
Good balance of capacity and performance
Rechargeable for cost-effectiveness
Lightweight and compact design
Bulk discounts are available for cost savings

Cons:

Unprotected, needs additional safety measures
Not suitable for standalone use without protection

10. Aspire INR 18650 Battery

Specifications:

Capacity: 2600mAh
Voltage: 3.7V
Size: 18mm x 65mm
Weight: 50g
Storage Temperature: 20-60°C

Pros:

Reliable performance with extended run time
Universally compatible with various devices
Rechargeable for cost efficiency
Consistent discharge current for stable use
Available in two capacities for flexible options

Cons:

The flat top design may not fit all devices
Limited to normal discharge current applications

Part 3. Criteria for selecting the best 18650 flat top batteries

Choosing the best 18650 battery becomes slightly daunting, and here’s what you should keep in mind:

Higher mAH will be vital if you need the electronic device to run for more hours.
A higher discharge rate is essential for high-drain devices,
It’s best to stick with familiar brands such as Ufine, Samsung, Sony, or Panasonic when buying these batteries.
Protected batteries include built-in circuitry to prevent overcharging and overheating.

Part 4. FAQs

How do you charge an 18650 flat-top battery?

Use a compatible lithium-ion charger to charge an 18650 flat-top battery.
What is better than an 18650 battery?

While 18650 batteries are widely used, the 21700 and 26650 lithium-ion batteries offer higher capacities.
What is the highest capacity 18650 battery?

The highest capacity, 18650 batteries, currently reaches around 3600mAh to 3750mAh.
Which is better, 18650 or AA batteries?

18650 batteries outperform AA batteries in both capacity and power delivery.
What is the maximum capacity of 18650 batteries?

The maximum capacity for an 18650 battery is around 3750mAh.