Lithium-Ion Vs Lithium Polymer Ion Batteries: 9 Common Differences
Following is the major differences between lithium-ion Vs Lithium Polymer Ion Batteries.
| Features | Li-ion Batteries | Li-Polymer Batteries |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Prone to explode | Aluminum casing makes them a safer alternative |
| Pricing | Very Cost-effective | Heavily priced |
| Portability and Suitability | Aren’t very portable | Have a compact and thin design |
| Lifespan | Offers 300-500 charge cycles | Nearly the same charging cycles |
| Self Discharge | Features a higher self-discharge | Fewer self-discharge rates |
| Versatile | Lacks versatility | Available in different shapes and sizes |
| Power Density | High energy density for heavy usage | Lack of decent power density |
| Efficiency | Ability to hold more energy | Not very efficient |
| Lightweight and Robust | Very fragile and lacks a robust design | Robust nature and lightweight design |
1. Which is More Safer: Li-Ion or Li-Polymer?
The safety of the batteries is a major concern among most consumers. When we’re comparing the Li-ion and Li-polymer batteries there is a big difference. The latter one is a safer option as it’s the upgraded version of Li-ion batteries.
The Li-ion batteries are prone to explosion. The primary reason behind this is the use of liquid casing which is known to be more explosive as compared to the aluminum casing in polymer batteries.
Also, the polymer batteries have no leakage problems as their inner parts don’t have any liquid electrolyte, instead of having a solid polymer electrolyte, making them the ultimate safer option.
2. Which Cost Less: Li-ion or Li-Polymer Battery?
Pricing is another big factor to consider while differentiating these two batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are very cost-effective in comparison to the Lithium polymer ones.
Li-ion batteries are here for a much longer time than polymer batteries. Thus, their manufacturing cost reduced significantly over time.
Li-Polymer batteries are one of the most high-priced batteries out there. It’s mainly because they are still yet to be used for the masses.
Most portable gadgets use Li-ion batteries especially because they are available easily and cost much less. Although it is well expected to get some price reduction on polymer batteries in near future.
3. Portability and Suitability
Lithium-ion and Lithium-polymer batteries are both very portable. But while comparing them, Li-polymer batteries surely have an upper hand as they feature a compact and thin design. This is because there is no liquid electrolyte or heavy metal used.
In terms of suitability, both the batteries are suitable in their ways and can be used in different items.
As for Li-ion batteries, they are used in electric toys, e-vehicles, wireless headphones, and many other portable devices. The Li-polymer batteries are mainly used in smartphones.
4. Which Has a Better Lifespan: Li-ion of Li-Polymer Battery?
The Li-ion batteries are known to last longer than any other batteries out there. They are estimated to last for about two-three years or more, or about least 300+ charge cycles.
The charge cycles are very important with Li-ion batteries. As the charging pattern gives you more accurate information about how long your battery will last than an expiration date.
The lifespan of Li-polymer batteries is decent but still not close to the Li-ion batteries. They can still give you an appropriate charge cycle if used properly. But they are surely not very long-lasting
5. Self Discharge
The lithium-polymer battery is known to be more secure, possesses fast charging and the threat of self-discharge is negligible. So, even if you aren’t using these batteries for a few months you won’t see any major draining.
However, with lithium-ion batteries, you will see a gradual impact on self-discharging. It is estimated to be a 1.5-2% self-discharge rate on these batteries. And this can change with the increase in temperature and state of charge.
6. High Power
Li-ion batteries and Li-Polymer batteries are both very suitable for high power usage. But still, Li-ion batteries are better and more effective than Li-Polymer. This is due to the higher power density of Li-ion batteries which makes them perfect for heavy usage.
The Li-Polymer batteries are not that efficient when it comes to energy density. And offers a very lesser charge cycle than the Li-ion batteries.
7. Which is More Versatile: Lithium-Ion or Li-Polymer?
Lithium polymer batteries are a newer invention than Li-ion batteries.
Due to the latest technologies they are way more versatile and are available in multiple shapes and sizes. Also, the manufacturer can customize the shape according to the user or their preferences.
On the other hand, Li-ion batteries don’t even come close to the Li-Polymer batteries, in terms of versatility. And especially given the freedom of customizing the battery as you want.
8. Which Battery Has Higher Efficiency: Li-ion or Li-Polymer?
The efficiency of both the batteries depends on several factors. However, Li-ion batteries are considered to be more efficient. Although in long term its capabilities and performance decrease significantly.
Li-ion batteries can hold up to four times more charge as compared to batteries of the same size. Also, the Li-ion batteries can maintain a constant voltage. This helps the battery deal with heavy loads or usage of energy.
Li-Polymer may not have these energy efficiency features. But they can be designed in different ways for various purposes.
9. Lightweight and Robust
The biggest advantage of having a Li-Po battery is its robust nature and lightweight design. Due to their design, the Li-Polymer batteries have very minimal chances of leakage. The Li-Polymer batteries are also favorites among high-end smartphones because of the lightweight form factor.
The Li-ion batteries are known to be fragile. They are not very suitable for rough usage as they don’t have a more robust design. These batteries are made up of liquid electrolytes and can get affected easily with normal force.
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