Table of Contents
Introduction
batteries are an essential part of our lives in today’s technology driven world, powering everything ranging from the smartphone to electric cars. The problem is that there isn’t just one right types of batteries for a given device: each type has its own advantages and pitfalls. Then next time you’re buying or replacing one of these, we’ll walk you through the 7 most essential types of batteries including popular options like li-ion batteries and smart batteries. Learning these battery types will get you through without wasting your time, cash or aggravation.
1. Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Batteries: Powerful and Long-Lasting
Li-ion batteries are definitely the go to portable electronics batteries. These are high energy density, long life batteries, and are perfect for the hard drive devices such as smartphones and laptops. Unlike, for instance, older battery types like lead acid batteries, li-ion batteries do not suffer from any “memory effect” which means you can recharge them partially and not lose capacity. But they are prone to damaging if they overheated, and therefore handling them carefully is important.
2. Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries: Reliable and Eco-Friendly
Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries are often using NiMH batteries. More eco friendly than standard alkaline batteries they offer a higher capacity and don’t contain harmful heavy metals. For devices needing a mid range power source, NiMH batteries are ideal, as would be a NiMH phone charger or external battery for a cell phone! But they die a lot faster if they’re not used, so they’re great for things that are used all the time.
3. Lead-Acid Batteries: Heavy-Duty and Affordable
We’ve all owned cars, and even if you haven’t there are probably lead acid batteries of various kinds in major appliances. They have been known for their durability and are relatively low cost batteries and are suited for automotive and industrial applications. Lead acid batteries are very heavy, can deliver a strong burst of power however then need to be maintained regularly. These batteries can also be sensitive to deep discharge and so, are not ideal batteries for devices that need a lot of charging and recharging.
4. Alkaline Batteries: Cost Effective and Widely Available
There are probably no more recognizable batteries than alkaline. They are available in many sizes (AA, AAA, C, D) and are plentifully used to power low drain devices such as remote controls, flashlights, and clocks. Alkaline batteries have a good shelf life and can be bought affordable and convenient for emergency kits. The problem is they are still single use, so if you require replacements regularly, you do not have the most sustainable option.
5. Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries: Durable but Less Common
NiCd batteries were once widely used, but now most rechargeable batteries have replaced them. Despite this, they remain popular because they can be trusted to deliver consistent power output and they’re durable. Another problem suffered by the NiCd batteries is the ‘memory effect’, where batteries must be completely discharged for each charge to retain capacity. They also contain toxic cadmium, so proper disposal is important, and plus.
6. Silver Oxide Batteries: Compact Devices, High Capacity
Silver oxide batteries are common in watches, calculators and other small electronics for their high capacity and stable voltage. Small, coin shaped with a long shelf life, they’re perfect for precision power device use over a long period. They’re more expensive than other single use batteries, but the silver content makes them great for things like device longevity.
7. Smart Batteries: Advanced and Feature-Rich
Batteries continue to develop with technology. Built in circuits in smart batteries monitor and control charge levels, temperature and health. Commonly found in modern laptops, drones, and medical devices, these batteries need performance, and safety. Real time data regarding the charge levels of different kinds of battery can be quite important if it comes to maintaining the longevity of devices. While they cost more than a standard battery, the power management they can do can save you the time and effort in the long run.
Conclusion
Learning about the different types of batteries can allow you to better understand what type of battery you need when buying or replacing a battery for some other device. High power li ion batteries, and the eco friendly NiMH batteries, have all different properties that suit different purposes. Some batteries, such as batteries of lead acid used in cars require upkeep, but their tight construction, some are robust, and require upkeep e.g. lead acid, but others, li ion battery, come with advanced features monitoring at a higher cost e.g. smart batteries.
This way you can know the players of strengths and limitations of every several type and pick the appropriate battery for your devices keeping them in constant operating state. Next time you walk into a battery store, you know exactly what you’re looking for.
