What’s the Difference Lithium Ion vs Lithium Polymer ?
Lithium Ion vs Lithium Polymer are these days with all the technology and gadgetry around, batteries are the unsung heroes that drive nearly everything we depend on—from the gadgets in our pockets to the electric cars on our roads, and even solar power systems that are constructing a green tomorrow. Between all the numerous varieties of rechargeable batteries found these days, Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) batteries are two of the most popular and dependable technologies.
Both batteries tap into the spectacular capability of lithium chemistry and provide high energy density and long cycles of life over conventional batteries. Nevertheless, despite both sharing essentially the same general chemical basis, Lithium Polymer and Lithium Ion batteries are quite different in design, performance specification, safety profile, and type of applications most suited to.
Lithium Ion batteries, having such a robust form and great capacity, are now the common choice for equipment that has constant power output, e.g., laptops, power tools, and electric vehicles. Lithium Polymer batteries are flexible and light with the additional benefit of being molded into any form, hence suitable for sleek smartphones, wearable tech, and drones where weight and space are important considerations.
Understanding these differences can aid you in making an informed choice on what battery technology is best for your individual needs—max capacity, mobility, safety, or value. Let’s delve into the distinctive features, strengths, and weaknesses of each, so you can select the proper power source that powers your devices farther, safer, and smarter.
What Are Lithium Ion Batteries?
Lithium Ion batteries are the standard for portable devices for years now. They have a liquid or gel electrolyte and multiple cells contained in a metal casing. Li-ion batteries provide:
- lHigh energy density (stores a lot of power in a small space)
- lLong cycle life (can recharge and use many times)
- lGood performance over a large range of temperature
Common applications are for smartphones, laptops, power tools, and electric vehicles.
What Are Lithium Polymer Batteries?
Lithium Polymer batteries are a newer version in which the liquid electrolyte is replaced by a solid or gel-type polymer. They are normally housed in a flexible, lighter pouch instead of a hard case. The features are:
- lLight and flexible form factor
- lSafer as there is less chance of leakage and swelling
- lCan be fabricated very thin, which is well suited for slim-line devices
You’ll often find Li-Po batteries used in drones, wearables, and super-slim smartphones.
Key Differences Between Lithium Ion vs Lithium Polymer
| Feature | Lithium Ion (Li-ion) | Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) |
| Electrolyte | Liquid or gel | Solid or gel-like polymer |
| Packaging | Hard metal case | Flexible pouch |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Shape/Form | Rigid | Flexible, can be custom-shaped |
| Energy Density | Slightly higher | Slightly lower |
| Safety | More susceptible to leakage/swelling | Safer, less susceptible to leakage/swelling |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Slightly more expensive |
Which One Should You Use in Lithium Ion vs Lithium Polymer?
- lFor high capacity and longevity: Lithium Ion batteries are ideal.
- For light, thin, or small applications: Lithium Polymer batteries are ideal.
- For safety-critical applications: Li-Po is better with less opportunity for leakage.
Conclusion
Lithium polymer and lithium ion batteries have both revolutionized portable power use. Knowing what they differ in can assist you in making smart decisions when purchasing a new device or creating a battery-powered device.
Need help choosing the right battery?
If you are still unsure of which lithium-ion battery type fits your application, our experts are here to help equally.