Is there a difference in battery makes?

[Patsplace]

Howdy folks,
I'm pretty familiar with AA rechargeables, C & D cells but 18650's are foreign to me.

I've got a Dereelight CL1H on order that is designated as 18650 specific, my charger is on the way and now I've got to get a few batteries. Pila are $20.00+ each and they seem to range down to $5-$7 area.

What's the deal on these batteries? I've used cheap AA rechargeables and they're still working right alongside the expensive ones.

Is there a difference? What are some of the proven 18650 rechargeables that have a track record?

Thanks for all the amazing info.

Pat

Darn!! Just when I knew I had too many hobbies, I find that I'm a flashlight nut. Never occurred to me until I read the statement "Living in the light and dreaming of flashlights in the dark. Bingo.

 

[DM51]

Welcome to CPF!

AW's protected Li-Ion cells are the most consistently reliable and most recommended. This link takes you to AW's sales thread; alternatively, they are obtainable from Lighthound (that link is to the 18650 size you are looking for).

I'm moving this to the 'Batteries Included' sub-forum, where you will find other information about the care and use of Li-Ion cells.

 

[yellow]

Is there a difference?

in short:
AA is size 14 mm diameter * 50 mm long.
18650 is 18 mm diameter * 65 mm long.

a single 18650, while only a bit bigger than an AA, packs the energy of three AAs into just one cell

PS: I would compare 2 CR123s to one 18650 (where the 18650 "wins" again). AAs are a different league