Return to site

A Simple Guide to Lithium, NiMH, and Dry Cells

In daily life, we use many devices that require batteries, such as flashlights, remote controls, work lights, Bluetooth speakers, toys, etc. Different devices are suitable for different types of batteries. Have you ever wondered: What is the difference between lithium batteries, NiMH batteries, and dry cells? Which one is better?Let’s take a brief look at the characteristics and applicable scenarios of these three common batteries.

1. Lithium-ion battery

broken image

Advantages:

High energy density: small size, large capacity, can support long-term lighting.

Light weight: suitable for handheld or head-mounted lamps.

No memory effect: can be charged and used at any time, without affecting battery life.

Can be charged through USB and other methods to adapt to modern usage habits.

broken image

Disadvantages:

High cost: generally used in mid-to-high-end products.

Sensitive to overcharge and over-discharge: the circuit needs to be protected, otherwise it is easy to damage.

Performance decreases at low temperatures (such as cold winter environments)

Suitable people/scenes:

Professional users who pursue battery life and portability, outdoor campers, electricians and maintenance personnel, etc.

broken image

2. Nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH)

Advantages:

High safety: not easy to explode, wide range of adaptability.

Can be recharged repeatedly than dry batteries: has environmental advantages.

Relatively low price: suitable for mid-to-low-end rechargeable products.

Disadvantages:

Energy density is lower than lithium batteries: shorter battery life at the same volume.

There is a memory effect: regular full discharge is required to maintain performance.

High self-discharge rate: power is easily lost when not in use.

Suitable for people/scenes:

Daily household use, users with limited budget, low-power lamps.

3. Dry batteries (alkaline batteries such as AA/AAA)

broken image

Advantages:

Easy to buy: available everywhere in supermarkets and convenience stores.

Easy to replace: does not rely on charging equipment, suitable for emergency backup.

Low initial cost: no additional charger is required.

broken image

Disadvantages:

Not reusable: long-term high cost of use.

Limited power: fast power consumption under high-brightness lamps.

Not environmentally friendly: generates more waste.

Suitable for people/scenes:

Emergency backup lamps, low-frequency use occasions, disaster response kits, etc.

broken image