![]() ![]() However, if you're anything like me, you always keep a modest stock of CR123A batteries anyways. There is no reason to spend upwards of $5 on replacement batteries multiple times per week when you can simply buy a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Lasting an average of two years with 500~ recharge cycles, they are the ultimate battery for use with flashlights. It is pretty clear that rechargeable lithium-ion 18650 cells are a much better value for the average consumer. While this is true, the irony is that the same company (Panasonic) that manufactures their CR123A batteries is also the same company that manufactures the rechargeable lithium-ion cells they are against! The only difference is that CR123A batteries are manufactured in Panasonic's Georgia facility whereas lithium-ion batteries are manufactured in Panasonic's Japan facility. * A common argument domestic CR123A manufacturers make is that lithium-ion cells are all manufactured overseas. ![]() Slightly more complex (risk of overcharging/overdischarging).They tend to be a little less tolerant to extreme environments but the difference is largely negligible for the average consumer.įun Fact: One 3400mAh lithium-ion cell averages around $12 and can last upwards of 500 recharge cycles. Two CR123A batteries would cost anywhere from $3-$5, only offer a maximum capacity of 3100mAh, and can't be recharged! These batteries, which also happen to be the exact same batteries used in Tesla's new electric cars, are fully rechargeable and offer a much better value for consumers. While lithium-ion batteries have been used for years in laptop battery packs and other appliances, they have only recently gained popularity in the flashlight world. Not practical for high output flashlightsġ8650 Lithium-Ion (Secondary Rechargeable Lithium-Ion).Wide operating temperature range (-40C - 85C).This is usually why most pistol-mounted flashlights are based on a CR123 battery configuration. This tolerance to the elements makes CR123A batteries popular in mission critical situations where failure can mean the difference between life and death. A lithium-ion battery wouldn't even last half that. CR123A batteries can be safely stockpiled for periods of 10 years while still retaining a significant charge. Furthermore, CR123A batteries are considered by many to be a "survivor's ultimate tool" due to their lengthy shelf life. So - why do people still use CR123A batteries?ĬR123A batteries can be useful because they have an incredibly wide operating temperature range - meaning they can be used in extremely cold or extremely hot environments with less issues. Compounded by the fact that most modern tactical flashlights require two or even three CR123A batteries for operation, the absurdity of these batteries is easy to see. Averaging around $1.20~ per battery when bought in bulk, and around $4~ per when bought in stores, it's easy to see how quickly the costs can add up. Once drained, they must be disposed of and replaced. ![]() ![]() There is just one small problem: they are not rechargeable. While some will be quick to argue otherwise, the reality is that primary lithium-metal batteries can be purchased in virtually any corner-store whereas rechargeable lithium-ion batteries can not. In this article, we'll explain some of the differences between the two batteries and discuss which battery is right for you.ĬR123A (Primary Non-Rechargeable Lithium Metal)ĬR123A batteries, also known as primary lithium-metal batteries, are currently the most popular form of lithium batteries. In the flashlight world, there are two variations of Lithium batteries that manufacturers use: Lithium-Metal and Lithium-Ion. ![]()
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