Top 12 Types Of Secondary Batteries Recommended

By Henry, Updated on August 8, 2024

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Secondary batteries are at the center of our modern world. They are identified and implemented in numerous industries and uses, such as mobile phones, electric cars, electrical appliances, electronics, etc. Therefore, rechargeable secondary batteries are necessary for the operation of energy storage systems and promote the use of efficient energy resources.

While primary batteries are disposable types that can be used only once, secondary batteries have the feature of rechargeability.

Therefore, this article will describe secondary batteries, their top handpicked choices, and what they entail. It will also address some of the most asked questions regarding their performance and the duration that can be expected.

Part 1. Understanding secondary batteries

What is a secondary battery?

A secondary battery is designed to be charged and recharged repeatedly or several times. It contrasts with a primary cell, which dispenses energy once and is disposed of once all energy is utilized.

What is the difference between primary and secondary batteries?

Primary batteries are not rechargeable; therefore, they are disposable batteries. Like batteries, their energy is used up and cannot be capped up or recycled.

On the other hand, secondary batteries are rechargeable. They operate through chemical reactions that are ‘reversible’; thus, they can be charged, discharged, and then recharged multiple times.

Part 2. Recommended secondary batteries for different types

Lithium-ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries have high energy density and low self-discharge. Hence, they are appropriate in technologies that demand power endurance for extended hours. Let’s examine some Lithium-ion secondary batteries.

1. 3.7 V 60mAh Lithium-Ion Battery 601216

Specifications:

Operates at a stable 3.7 V.
Capacity of 60mAh for reliable energy.
Functions in temperatures from -40℃ to 60℃.
Includes protections against overcharging and short circuits.
Cycle life of 100 cycles ≥92%.

Applications:

Alarm clock
Remote control
Forehead thermometer
Makeup mirror
Glucose meter

2. Sony VTC6 18650 3000mAh Battery

Specifications:

Consists of a nominal capacity of 3000mAh.
Continuous discharge rating of 15A.
Nominal voltage of 3.6V.
Maximum voltage of 4.2V.
Dimensions of 18.40mm x 65.7mm.

Applications:

High-output flashlights
Power packs
Battery packs
E-cigarettes
High-drain devices

3. 3.6V Panasonic NCR18650B

Specifications:

Nominal capacity of 3250mAh.
Stable 3.7V discharge voltage.
The high discharge current of 15A.
Internal resistance ≤50mΩ.
Charging time of 4.0 hours.

Applications:

E-cigarettes
Vacuum cleaning application
Electric tools
Cordless power tools
RC models
E-bike

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries

NiMH batteries are known for their high capacity and environmental friendliness. They are the most suitable choice when compared with older nickel-cadmium types. Let’s examine some secondary NiMH batteries.

1. Tenergy Premium PRO Rechargeable AA Batteries

Specifications:

Capacity of 2800mAh.
Reusable up to 1,200 times.
Operates effectively between -4°F and 122°F.
Advanced no-leak design.
Trusted for fast refresh rates.

Applications:

Camera flash
Remote controls
Wireless keyboards and mice
Portable gaming devices
Flashlights

2. HiQuick 2800mAh AA Rechargeable Batteries

Specifications:

Capacity of 2800mAh.
Rechargeable up to 1,200 times.
Pre-charged and ready to use.
Maintains 80% capacity after 24 months of non-use.
Leak-free design for safe use.

Applications:

Camera
Digital devices
Radio
Toys
Remote controls

3. EBL 2800mAh AA Rechargeable Batteries

Specifications:

Capacity of 2800mAh.
Rechargeable up to 1,200 times.
Maintains 80% capacity after three years of non-use.
Pre-charged and ready to use.
Includes battery storage cases.

Applications:

Indoor/outdoor devices
Digital cameras
Toys
Remote controls
Household electronics

Lead-acid batteries

Lead-acid batteries are known for their cost-effectiveness. Hence, they are widely used in various applications, such as automotive and backup power. They provide reliable power and are known for their longevity. Let’s check out some lead-acid secondary batteries.

1. YELLOWTOP® D34 Deep Cycle Battery

Specifications:

Provides 750 CCA (Cold Cranking Amps).
55 AH (Amp Hours) capacity.
Reserve capacity consists of 120 minutes at 25 amps.
Weighs 42.9 lbs.
Dimensions: 7.88 (height), 6.88 (width), 10.06 (length)

Applications:

Car
Truck
High electrical demands
Start-stop systems
Heavy-duty equipment

2. Deka Sports Power ETX-15L

Specifications:

12 volts of power.
Sealed lead acid composition.
Weighs 11 pounds.
No vent tube, preventing acid leaks and terminal corrosion.
Maintenance-free design, no filling or activation needed.

Applications:

ATV
Motorcycle
Snowmobile
Personal watercraft
Utility vehicle

3. ODX-AGM31A Odyssey Extreme Battery 12V 100Ah

Specifications:

12 volts and 100Ah capacity.
Capable of supplying engine cranking pulses up to 2700 amps for 5 seconds.
Pure lead plates for higher power density.
Design life of 8-12 years (float).
Service life of 3-10 years.

Applications:

Heavy-duty vehicles
Emergency vehicles
Off-road vehicles
Marine applications

Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries

1. INTEC ETL-4500D

Specifications:

Operates in environments up to 70°C.
1.2 volts with 500mAh capacity.
High energy density, 50% higher than conventional Ni-Cd batteries.
Discharges at up to 8C rate.
Safety vent mechanism for pressure relief.

Applications:

Test and measurement equipment
Healthcare devices
Wearable electronics
Consumer electronics
Emergency lighting

2. EverGreen NCAA700-2B

Specifications:

2.4 volts and 700mAh capacity.
Its chemistry is used for rechargeability.
It is equipped with a Molex 2510-2P connector.
Reliable power source for specific applications.
Compact design for easy integration.

Applications:

Chloride 1003A097
Backup power systems
Emergency devices
Portable electronics
Battery packs

3. Powerizer CD AA 1000mAh 1.2V NiCd

Specifications:

1.2 volts with 1000mAh capacity.
Ensures long-term rechargeability.
Button top design for secure connections.
Rapid charging capability.
Ideal for high-drain applications.

Applications:

High-drain electronic devices
Remote controls
Flashlights
Portable tools
Battery packs

Part 3. Benefits Of Using Secondary Batteries

The advantages of secondary batteries are numerous, as mentioned below:

Provide economic benefits as you will use reusable batteries instead of throwing them after use.
Although the initial cost may be higher, their ability to be recharged multiple times results in lower long-term costs.
Secondary batteries are more environmentally friendly.
They reduce waste by minimizing the number of batteries in landfills when considering the long term.
They can be used for various applications, such as small gadgets, large-scale energy storage, and more!

Part 4. FAQs

What is the best type of secondary battery?

The best secondary battery depends on the specific application. Due to its capability of high energy density, lithium-ion batteries are often considered superior for general use.
How many types of secondary batteries are there?

There are several types of secondary batteries, including Lithium-ion (Li-ion), Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), Nickel-carbonium (NiCd), and Lead-Acid batteries.
Which secondary battery is best for most extended-lasting?

Lithium-ion batteries are known for their long lifespan compared to other types. They can typically last between 500 to 1,500 charge cycles.
How many years can a Li-ion battery last?

A Lithium-ion battery generally lasts 2 to 5 years, depending on how it is used and maintained.
Do secondary batteries expire if not used?

Yes, secondary batteries can degrade over time, even if not in use.