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When it comes to vaping, batteries are the powerhouse behind your device. They’re not just another component; they directly affect how your vape performs, how long your device lasts, and, most importantly, your safety.
Whether you’re chasing big clouds or looking for a smooth, consistent experience, choosing the right vape battery is crucial. Knowing how to care for your batteries can extend their lifespan and keep your device running at its best.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about vape batteries to ensure you get the most out of your vaping experience while staying safe.
Choosing the right battery is essential for getting the best performance from your vape. Batteries vary in terms of capacity, power output, and size, and not all batteries are suitable for every device. Here’s what you need to consider when picking a battery for your vape:
The first thing to check when choosing a battery is whether it’s compatible with your device. Most vape devices will specify the type of battery required, such as 18650, 20700, or 21700. Make sure the battery you choose fits your device physically and matches the required power output.
Different vaping styles, mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL), require different battery capabilities. MTL vapers generally use lower wattage devices, meaning they can use batteries with lower discharge rates, while DTL vapers, who prefer larger clouds and higher wattage, need batteries with higher amp ratings to support sub-ohm vaping.
Works best with batteries that have a higher capacity (mAh) and lower continuous discharge rates.
Offers longer battery life for moderate power usage.
Requires batteries with a higher continuous discharge rate (typically 20A or more) to handle high-wattage devices.
Prioritises performance and power over battery life.
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Devices typically operate at lower wattages and require batteries with longer life (high mAh) rather than high power output. Look for batteries that can last longer throughout the day without needing frequent recharges.
Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Devices require more power for sub-ohm vaping and larger vapour production. For this style, you’ll want to prioritise batteries with high continuous discharge ratings to ensure your device can handle the higher wattage safely, as well as higher capacities to last you through the day.
Understanding the different types of vape batteries can help you choose the right one for your device and vaping style. There are several key factors to consider when deciding between built-in and removable batteries, as well as the various battery sizes and chemistries available.
One of the key points of differentiation between different vaping devices is whether they use a built-in battery, or are powered by a replaceable battery. Each is better suited to different vaping styles, requirements and preferences.
These are non-removable batteries that come integrated into your device or mod. Built-in batteries are often found in compact, user-friendly vape devices and are recharged by plugging the device into a power supply.
Devices with built-in batteries are convenient because you don’t need to worry about buying additional batteries or chargers. However, when the battery degrades over time, the entire device will need to be replaced.
Pros of Built-in Batteries:
Convenient and easy to use
No need to purchase separate batteries.
Cons of Built-In Batteries:
Once the battery depletes, you’ll need to replace the entire device
They typically have shorter lifespans compared to removable batteries.
These can be removed from the device to recharge in a stand alone charger, or often left in while recharging via a USB input. Typically available in 18650, 20700, or 21700 sizes, they are used in many advanced vape mods.
Removable batteries can be swapped out when they run low or when they degrade over time. They offer more flexibility, especially for vapers who like to carry spares and swap them on the go. Some mods may use a single battery, while others may require two batteries to be used at the same time.
Pros of Removable Batteries:
Can be replaced easily without needing to replace the whole device.
Enable you to carry spares to swap out when needed.
Cons of Removable Batteries:
May require the separate purchase of batteries and chargers.
Often more bulky and larger to accommodate higher power and capacity levels.
The most common types of removable vape batteries are 18650, 20700, and 21700, each varying in size and capacity. For devices with built-in batteries, you’ll typically see the capacity (in mAh) shown, as they don’t always use the same size format as removable batteries.
The most common size used in vape mods, with a balance between capacity and power output. Suitable for both MTL and DTL vaping.
Size: Typically 18mm diameter x 65mm length.
Capacity: Typically between 1800mAh to 3500mAh.
Larger than 18650s, offering more capacity and better battery life for high-wattage devices.
Size: Typically 20mm diameter x 70mm length.
Capacity: Typically between 3000mAh to 4000mAh.
Slightly larger than the 20700, with even more capacity, making them ideal for high-performance mods that require a lot of power.
Size: Typically 21mm diameter x 70mm length.
Capacity: Typically between 3500mAh to 5000mAh.
Vape batteries come in different chemistries that affect their safety and performance. The most commonly used chemistries in vaping are IMR (Lithium Manganese Oxide), ICR (Lithium Cobalt Oxide), and INR (Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide).
Known for their high safety, these batteries are commonly used in vaping devices due to their stable performance and lower internal resistance.
Best for: General use, offering good balance between safety and performance.
These are a blend of lithium manganese and nickel chemistries, offering higher capacity and safety features. They are more stable under high loads and commonly used for high-performance mods.
Best for: High-wattage devices that require more power and safety under heavy use.
Known for their higher capacity, but with slightly less safety due to the chemistry. Not as widely available or recommended for vaping as IMR or INR batteries unless they have built-in protection.
Best for: Lower-wattage devices with protection circuits.
Understanding the specifications and ratings of your vape battery is essential for both safety and performance. These numbers and terms can seem technical, but they provide vital information about how long your battery lasts, how much power it delivers, and how safe it is to use with your device.
Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:
The mAh rating indicates the battery's capacity (how much energy it can store), and is one of the key specifications to look at when selecting a battery, or device with a built-in battery. A higher mAh means the battery can last longer between charges. For example, a 3000mAh battery will generally last longer than a 2000mAh battery, especially in lower wattage devices.
A higher mAh is ideal for MTL (mouth-to-lung) vapers who use lower wattages and want longer battery life. In DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping, the focus may shift from mAh to discharge rate because of higher wattage demands, though higher mAh is still preferable for longer-lasting performance.
The voltage and wattage specifications on batteries and mods relate to how the level of power that the device can run out. It’s important to use a battery that’s suitable to your voltage and wattage requirements, which will depend on the type of coils and e-liquid that you’re using, as well as the style of vaping you prefer.
Most vape batteries operate at a nominal voltage of 3.7V, but fully charged, they typically output around 4.2V. Voltage relates to the electrical potential of the battery. Many vape devices will regulate voltage automatically, but some advanced mods allow you to control it manually.
The wattage refers to the power output, and it’s controlled by the device. Higher wattage means more power, which usually translates to more vapour and flavour but also consumes the battery faster.
More sophisticated mods, including both removable and built-in battery types, will typically enable you to adjust the wattage to suit your needs. Those with higher wattage ratings will be better suited to the higher power demands of sub-ohm vaping. You’ll find that sub-ohm kits typically fall into the 50-100W range, although devices capable of outputting at 200W or more are available.
Ensure the battery you use can handle the wattage range of your device. If you’re using a high-wattage device, choose a battery with a higher amp rating.
Amp ratings indicate how much current (measured in amps) the battery can continuously supply without overheating. The higher the amp rating, the more powerful the battery, making it essential for high-wattage vaping.
The safe level of current the battery can provide without risking damage. For example, if a battery has a 20A CDR, it can safely discharge 20 amps continuously.
Some batteries also have a "pulse" rating, which indicates the current they can provide for short bursts. However, CDR is the more important figure to focus on, as this is the rating for sustained use.
MTL devices generally don’t require high amp ratings, and most users can safely use batteries with 10-15A CDR. DTL vapers using sub-ohm tanks or rebuildable atomizers need batteries with a higher CDR—20A or more—to handle the power demands safely.
Some battery models come with safety features that add an extra layer of protection and reliability, such as:
Temperature Control: Built-in temperature control can help prevent overheating by automatically shutting down the battery if it gets too hot.
Overcharge Protection: This feature ensures that your battery doesn’t continue charging once it reaches full capacity, helping to prevent battery damage or failure.
Battery safety is one of the most important aspects of vaping. Understanding how to handle, store, and care for your batteries properly can prevent accidents like overheating, battery venting, or even explosions.
Always keep your batteries away from metal objects like keys or coins. These can create a short circuit if they come into contact with the positive and negative ends of the battery, potentially causing it to overheat or vent.
When carrying spare batteries, for example when you’re going on holiday and flying with your vape, always use a dedicated plastic or silicone battery case to protect them from physical damage or accidental contact with other objects.
Batteries are sensitive to temperature. Avoid leaving them in hot environments (like a car on a sunny day) or exposing them to extreme cold. Both can degrade the battery’s performance and lifespan, or even cause safety hazards.
Don’t leave your batteries charging overnight or unattended for long periods. Overcharging can cause batteries to overheat and potentially fail. Use chargers with overcharge protection or ensure you remove the batteries once they are fully charged.
If your battery has visible damage such as dents, tears in the wrap, or corrosion; stop using it immediately. Damaged batteries are more likely to short circuit or fail.
If your battery becomes excessively hot while charging or in use, remove it from the device immediately and let it cool. Continuing to use a hot battery can be dangerous.
The outer wrap of your battery isn’t just for looks, it’s essential for safety. A torn or damaged wrap can expose the metal casing of the battery, which could cause a short circuit if it touches other metal components in your device.
Regularly inspect your batteries for any signs of wear or damage to the wrap. If you notice any tears, replace the wrap immediately.
Counterfeit or poorly manufactured batteries can pose significant safety risks. It’s important to ensure you’re buying authentic, high-quality batteries from reputable brands.
Always purchase your batteries from trusted suppliers. Avoid third-party marketplaces where counterfeit products are more common.
Authentic batteries should have clear labelling, including the manufacturer’s name, capacity (mAh), and amp ratings. If the labelling seems off or the price is too good to be true, it might be a fake.
Temperature plays a significant role in how well your vape battery performs and how long it lasts. Whether you’re dealing with extreme heat or cold, improper handling in different conditions can reduce your battery’s efficiency and lifespan. Here's what you need to know about the effects of temperature and how to protect your batteries.
While they’re durable enough for day-to-day use in most circumstances, you should avoid exposing your batteries to extreme temperatures; this can not only reduce their performance, but also make them unsafe.
High temperatures can cause batteries to overheat, degrade, and even become a safety hazard. If exposed to heat for extended periods, batteries can vent or fail, which can be dangerous. Overheating reduces the overall capacity and lifespan of the battery.
Tip: Avoid leaving your vape or spare batteries in hot environments like a car, direct sunlight, or near heat sources.
Cold temperatures can negatively affect battery performance, reducing their capacity and runtime. Vaping in extremely cold weather may cause your battery to drain faster than usual and struggle to provide consistent power.
Tip: In colder weather, try to keep your vape and spare batteries close to your body to keep them warm. You can use a pocket or insulated pouch to maintain battery performance.
Optimal Storage Conditions: Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature (around 20°C). Avoid keeping them in places where temperatures fluctuate too much, such as near windows, radiators, or in cars.
Battery Storage Level: If you’re storing your batteries for an extended period, it’s recommended to charge them to about 40-50%. Storing them fully charged or completely empty can degrade the battery over time.
Use a Dedicated Case: Always store your batteries in a proper case, whether they’re in use or being kept for later. This reduces the risk of physical damage or short circuits.
In Hot Conditions: When vaping in hot weather, keep your device out of direct sunlight. If the device or battery feels excessively hot to the touch, stop using it immediately and let it cool down. Using a hot battery can lead to battery degradation or failure.
In Cold Conditions: Vaping in cold weather will cause batteries to drain faster. To maintain consistent power, try to minimise exposure to the cold and keep the device insulated when not in use.
Proper charging and maintenance of your vape batteries are essential for both safety and longevity. Following the right practices can extend battery life, improve performance, and reduce the risk of accidents.
Avoid Overcharging: Overcharging a battery can lead to overheating and damage. Make sure to unplug your battery as soon as it's fully charged. Many modern chargers and devices come with overcharge protection, but it’s still good practice not to leave batteries charging unattended for extended periods.
Use a High-Quality Charger: Always use a reliable and high-quality charger specifically designed for your battery type. Avoid using cheap or unbranded chargers as they may not regulate power correctly, increasing the risk of overcharging or damaging the battery.
Charge on a Flat Surface: When charging removable batteries, place them on a flat, stable surface away from flammable objects. This reduces the risk of accidents in case something goes wrong during charging.
Don’t Charge Overnight: It can be tempting to charge your vape overnight, but it’s safer to charge during the day when you can monitor the process and unplug the battery once it’s full.
External battery chargers are generally considered safer and more efficient for charging removable batteries. They offer better charging control and allow you to charge multiple batteries at once. High-quality external chargers often come with features like overcharge protection and heat monitoring, making them a safer choice.
Some devices allow you to charge removable batteries directly inside the device via a USB cable. While convenient, on-device charging is typically slower and less reliable compared to external chargers. It’s fine for occasional use but not ideal as a long-term charging solution.
Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the battery contacts, reducing efficiency and performance. Wipe the contacts regularly with a clean cloth or cotton swab to ensure optimal power flow. If you use multiple batteries, try to rotate them regularly to ensure even wear. This helps prolong the overall lifespan of your batteries, as constant use of the same one can lead to quicker degradation.
Constantly draining your batteries to 0% can damage them over time. It’s better to recharge when the battery level drops to around 20-30%, as this can extend the overall life of the battery. You should also pay attention to how long your battery lasts between charges. If you notice a significant drop in performance or if the battery no longer holds a charge well, it may be time to replace it.
Like all rechargeable batteries, vape batteries have a finite lifespan. Understanding how long they typically last and recognising when it’s time to replace them helps you to ensure that your vape continues to perform well and remains safe to use.
Vape batteries, particularly 18650, 20700, and 21700 models, generally last 6 to 12 months with regular use, depending on how well they are maintained and how often they are charged. They will generally still be usable beyond this, however you may notice that you need to recharge a lot more frequently.
The lifespan of a battery is usually measured in charge cycles; each cycle is a full charge and discharge. Most vape batteries are rated for about 300 to 500 charge cycles before they begin to degrade.
If your battery isn’t holding a charge as long as it used to or is depleting faster than usual, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. For example, if you previously got a full day’s use and now only get a few hours, it’s likely time to replace the battery.
Visible damage to the battery, such as dents, cracks, or torn wraps, is a clear sign that the battery should be replaced immediately. Damaged batteries are more prone to short-circuiting and overheating, which can be dangerous.
If your battery becomes excessively hot during use or charging, this can indicate internal damage or wear. Overheating is a warning sign that the battery may fail soon, so replacing it is the safest option.
If your battery struggles to charge or doesn’t fully charge even after being plugged in for the usual amount of time, it’s a sign that the battery is no longer functioning correctly.
If your battery appears swollen or bulging, stop using it immediately and replace it. This is a clear sign of internal failure, and continued use could result in dangerous overheating or venting.
If your vape mod is firing inconsistently, or you’re experiencing power drops during vaping, your battery may no longer be able to provide stable output. When the battery can't supply consistent power, it’s time for a replacement.
Avoid Overcharging and Over-discharging: Both overcharging and draining the battery completely can shorten its lifespan. Recharge your battery when it drops to around 20-30%, and unplug it once it reaches full capacity.
Rotate Your Batteries: If you use multiple batteries, rotate them regularly to avoid wearing out one battery too quickly.
Store Batteries Properly: When not in use, store batteries in a cool, dry place and ensure they are not exposed to extreme temperatures. For long-term storage, charge them to around 40-50%.
Vape batteries are generally reliable, but problems can arise over time. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues can help you avoid disruptions and ensure your device continues to function properly. Here are some typical battery-related problems and how to fix them:
One of the most common issues vapers face is a battery that no longer holds a charge like it used to. This can happen due to wear over time or improper handling.
The battery has reached the end of its lifespan.
The battery contacts are dirty or corroded.
The charger or device isn’t functioning properly.
Replace the battery if it’s older than 6-12 months or if it’s been heavily used.
Clean the battery contacts using a cotton swab or cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be preventing a proper connection.
Check your charger and ensure it’s functioning properly by testing it with a different battery. If your device has on-board charging, try charging the battery with an external charger to rule out device-related issues.
If your vape mod isn’t firing, the problem could lie with the battery or the connection between the battery and the device.
Poor connection between the battery and the mod.
The battery is completely drained.
The battery may have internal damage or be faulty.
Check the battery contacts for any dirt, corrosion, or debris. Clean them gently if needed.
Test the battery by trying it in another device (if possible) to determine if the issue is with the battery or the mod.
If the battery has been in use for a long time, consider replacing it, as older batteries may struggle to provide consistent power.
Overheating is a serious issue and should be addressed immediately. If your battery becomes too hot to touch while charging or in use, it could indicate a problem.
The battery is damaged or degraded.
The wattage or amp draw on your device is too high for the battery to handle.
The charger is malfunctioning or overcharging the battery.
Stop using the battery immediately and let it cool down.
Check your device’s settings to ensure you’re not using a wattage or power level that exceeds the battery’s amp rating.
If the battery continues to overheat, replace it, as overheating can indicate serious internal damage.
If your battery drains faster than usual, it could be due to how you’re using your device or a sign that the battery is nearing the end of its life.
The battery is old and no longer has its original capacity.
You’re vaping at a higher wattage than usual, causing the battery to deplete more quickly.
External temperature (extreme cold) may be affecting battery performance.
Lower your wattage settings to see if that helps extend battery life.
Replace the battery if it’s old or heavily used, as diminished capacity is normal over time.
Keep your device warm in cold weather to prevent the battery from draining faster than usual.
Physical damage to a battery is a clear indicator that it should no longer be used. Even minor dents or tears in the battery wrap can pose a significant safety risk.
Torn or damaged wraps.
Dents or bulges in the battery casing.
Corrosion on the battery contacts.
Replace the battery if there are any signs of physical damage, such as dents or swelling.
Rewrap the battery if the wrap is torn but the battery itself is undamaged. Battery wraps are inexpensive and can be easily replaced.
Inspect the contacts regularly for signs of corrosion. Clean the contacts if necessary or replace the battery if the corrosion is severe.
Properly disposing of your vape batteries is not only important for safety but also for the environment. Batteries contain materials that can be harmful if not disposed of correctly, but they are also recyclable.
Vape batteries contain hazardous materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which can leak harmful chemicals into the environment if they’re thrown away in regular household waste. When batteries are recycled, these valuable materials can be recovered and reused, reducing the need for mining new resources.
Disposing of batteries in regular waste can lead to fires in rubbish collection and processing centres, as the chemicals inside can react when crushed or damaged.
Recycling Centers: Most local recycling centres in the UK accept vape batteries for safe disposal. Check with your local council for designated battery drop-off points, or visit a recycling centre that handles batteries.
Retailer Take-Back Schemes: Some organisations and retailers of batteries in the UK offer battery recycling schemes. You can return used batteries to these organisations, and they will handle the safe disposal.
Supermarket Battery Bins: Many supermarkets and electronic stores have dedicated battery recycling bins where you can drop off your old vape batteries.
Prepare the Battery for Disposal: To avoid short-circuiting during transport, tape the positive and negative terminals of your battery with non-conductive tape before recycling it. If your battery is damaged or leaking, handle it carefully. Place it in a non-flammable material, like sand or a dedicated battery disposal container, to prevent any further risk.
Don’t Throw Batteries in Household Waste: Never dispose of vape batteries in your general waste or recycling bins at home. Always take them to a proper battery recycling point.
Recycle Other Parts of Your Vape Device: If you’re upgrading your device and have built-in batteries, consider using an electronics recycling service for the entire device.
Vape batteries are the backbone of your vaping experience, providing the power needed for everything from big clouds to smooth draws. Understanding how to choose the right battery, care for it properly, and handle it safely is essential for both performance and longevity.
From selecting the right battery for your device and vaping style to knowing when it's time to replace your battery, being informed is the key to a safe and enjoyable vape. By following best practices for charging, storing, and maintaining your batteries, you can extend their lifespan and ensure they work efficiently.
Always remember, safety comes first; whether it's handling damaged batteries, recycling old ones, or making sure you're using high-quality, authentic products. As the vaping world continues to evolve, staying informed about battery advancements and safety guidelines will help you make the most of your vaping experience.
Here at Steam we offer a wide selection of mods, batteries and vape kits with either built in batteries or removable batteries. Whether you need a powerful mod for sub-ohm vaping, new batteries for your device, or a smaller kit for convenient charging and vaping on the go, we’ve got you covered.
Browse our range online, or get in touch if you need further assistance in finding the right battery.
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