Lithium vs Alkaline Batteries: A Complete Guide to show you the difference

September 12, 2023Justlithiumbattery0 comments

Lithium batteries and alkaline batteries are both common types of batteries in our daily lives. According to common knowledge, we usually use alkaline batteries for children’s toys, quartz clocks, remote controls, and other similar devices. However, in the realm of mobile phones, computers, cameras, and other areas, lithium batteries are commonly used. Why are lithium batteries used in some fields while alkaline batteries are preferred in others? What are the differences between them? If you’re confused about this, then this article will visually help you understand everything you want to know!

Basics of Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are indispensable sources of energy in high-end portable electronic devices. To fully understand lithium batteries, we need to look at the following key dimensions:

Types of Lithium Batteries

By kind: Divided into lithium-ion batteries (containing nickel, cobalt, manganese) and lithium iron phosphate batteries.
By shape: Can be categorized into prismatic, cylindrical, and polymer types.
Popular Types: Lithium-ion and lithium iron phosphate batteries are the most popular, each having specific application fields.

How Lithium Batteries Work

Electrochemical Reaction: Lithium ions move between the anode and cathode, accompanied by the flow of electrons in the external circuit.
Internal Structure: Includes a separator (prevents electron penetration) and electrolyte (a medium for lithium-ion conduction).
Charging and Discharging Process: Lithium ions deposit at the anode during charging and return to the cathode during discharge.

Advantages:

High energy density, longer usage time.
Longer charge-discharge cycle life.
Rapid charge and discharge capability, convenient for quick recharging.
Low self-discharge rate, minimal energy loss during storage.

Disadvantages:

Relatively high manufacturing cost.
Temperature sensitivity, performance affected under extreme temperatures.
Safety risks, improper handling can lead to accidents.

Basics of Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline batteries are traditional and widely used in various household devices. Understanding alkaline batteries can be done from several perspectives:

Types of Alkaline Batteries

By composition: Mainly zinc-manganese dioxide batteries.
By size: Common sizes include AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V.
By application: Designed for low-power devices like remote controls, or high-power devices like digital cameras.

How Alkaline Batteries Work

Chemical Reaction: Electron transfer between zinc (anode) and manganese dioxide (cathode) through an alkaline electrolyte (usually potassium hydroxide).
Power Generation Mechanism: During discharge, zinc in the battery oxidizes, releasing energy.
Discharge Process: Electrons flow through the external circuit from the anode to the cathode, powering the device and generating current.

Advantages:

Low cost and easily accessible.
Higher energy density compared to old zinc-carbon batteries.
Long shelf life and low self-discharge rate.
Suitable for a wide range of temperatures.

Disadvantages:

Non-rechargeable, leading to greater waste and cost over time.
Lower performance under high-power conditions compared to lithium batteries.
Potential leakage of potassium hydroxide, which can corrode and damage devices.

Why Are There Different Sizes of Batteries?

The variety in battery sizes primarily exists to meet specific power and size requirements of different devices. Here are some key reasons:

Device Power Requirements: Different devices need different levels of current and voltage. For example, watches and remote controls require far less battery power compared to high-power devices like cameras.
Device Size Limitations: Small portable devices need smaller batteries to save space, whereas larger devices can accommodate bigger batteries, providing longer battery life.
Economic Efficiency: Standardized battery sizes allow for mass production, reducing manufacturing costs, and also make it easier for consumers to purchase and replace them.
Safety Considerations: Different sizes have varying capacities and discharge rates, helping to reduce device damage or safety incidents due to inappropriate current or voltage.
Compatibility and Universality: Standardized battery sizes ensure they can be used across multiple devices, eliminating the need for unique battery shapes and sizes for each device.

As technology evolves, the standardization of battery sizes also progresses to meet the demands of emerging devices, reflecting trends in environmental protection and sustainability. Standardized sizes not only provide convenience for consumers but also enable possibilities for battery recycling and reuse. With the proliferation of IoT and portable electronic devices, the diversity and standardization of battery sizes will continue to be an important area of development.

Differences Between Lithium and Alkaline Batteries:

Voltage Difference

Voltage is one of the key parameters for measuring battery performance, and there is a significant difference in voltage characteristics between lithium and alkaline batteries:

Lithium Batteries: Typically have a nominal voltage of 3.6 or 3.7 volts, which is much higher than that of alkaline batteries. A fully charged lithium battery can start with a voltage as high as 4.2 volts and maintain a higher voltage level for most of its discharge cycle. This stability in voltage is crucial for electronic devices that require a steady voltage input, such as digital cameras and smartphones.
Alkaline Batteries: A new alkaline battery has a nominal voltage of 1.5 volts, but the voltage gradually declines during use. As the battery discharges, the voltage can drop to 1.0 volt or lower. For some low-power devices that are not sensitive to voltage fluctuations, such as remote controls, this drop does not affect their normal operation. However, for devices that require higher voltage, performance can be impacted.

Cost Comparison

The manufacturing cost of lithium batteries is several times higher than that of alkaline batteries, not only because of the higher price of raw materials but also due to a more complex production process. However, lithium batteries have a much longer cycle life, reaching thousands of cycles compared to the single-use nature of alkaline batteries. Long-term, the cost-effectiveness ratio of lithium batteries is significant. For example, if an alkaline battery costs 1 unit and a rechargeable lithium battery costs 10 units, but the lithium battery can be charged and discharged 1000 times, then the cost per charge/discharge cycle is only 0.01 unit, much lower than the single-use cost of an alkaline battery.

Cycle Life

Typically, a lithium battery can go through 500 to 1000 charge-discharge cycles, or even more, while alkaline batteries are usually single-use. Even rechargeable alkaline batteries only last for a few dozen to a few hundred cycles. This means that the lifespan of a lithium battery can be 10 times longer than that of an alkaline battery, or more.

Power Stability

Lithium batteries maintain a relatively flat voltage curve during discharge, meaning they can provide a nearly constant voltage and power throughout their discharge cycle. For example, a typical 18650 lithium battery starts with about 4.2 volts at the beginning of discharge and maintains above 2.75 volts towards the end. In contrast, the voltage and power of alkaline batteries significantly decline as the battery depletes.

Internal Resistance and Efficiency

Lithium batteries have lower internal resistance, so they can provide larger current outputs in high-load applications. Alkaline batteries, with higher internal resistance, perform poorly under high-load conditions. This is why alkaline batteries are not suitable for high-speed discharge devices, such as cameras and high-speed electric tools.

Capacity and Weight

Lithium batteries have a much higher energy density per unit of weight than alkaline batteries. For instance, a standard 18650 lithium battery has a capacity of about 2000 to 3500 milliamp-hours, while an alkaline battery of the same weight typically does not exceed 1000 milliamp-hours.

Usage Temperature and Storage

Lithium batteries perform better than alkaline batteries under extreme temperatures, especially in low-temperature environments. Alkaline batteries rapidly lose power in cold conditions, while lithium batteries maintain good discharge performance even at -20°C.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Lithium batteries require higher safety standards in design and usage, as improper handling can lead to overheating and combustion. Although alkaline batteries are relatively safer, the chemicals they contain can be harmful to the environment. Both types need special attention in disposal, with lithium batteries requiring professional recycling processes, and while alkaline batteries are easier to handle, they still should not be disposed of carelessly.

Why People Prefer Lithium Batteries Over Alkaline Batteries Now:

Lithium Batteries Have a Longer Lifespan

To verify the point that lithium batteries have a longer lifespan compared to alkaline batteries, we conducted a comparative experiment. The purpose of the experiment was to compare the performance degradation and lifespan of both types of batteries under the same usage conditions.

Experimental Method

We selected standard AA-sized lithium and alkaline batteries commonly available in the market. Ten batteries of each type were chosen and subjected to standardized loads and discharge cycles to simulate daily usage. The batteries were kept in the same environmental conditions, discharged for a fixed duration each day, until they could no longer maintain normal working voltage.

Experimental Results

Lithium Batteries: Showed excellent performance stability throughout the experiment. After undergoing around 1000 charge-discharge cycles, most lithium batteries only saw about a 20% reduction in capacity. Their average lifespan reached the expected number of cycles, and the batteries still performed well even after numerous cycles.
Alkaline Batteries: In contrast, the performance of alkaline batteries degraded significantly. Most of the alkaline batteries could not function normally after 100 to 200 discharge cycles, showing a significant drop in capacity and unstable voltage.

Conclusion

The experimental results clearly indicate that lithium batteries far exceed alkaline batteries in terms of lifespan. The cycle life of lithium batteries is approximately 5 to 10 times that of alkaline batteries, and they demonstrate much more stable performance during use. This finding supports one of the reasons why people choose lithium batteries over alkaline batteries: in the long run, lithium batteries provide more reliable performance and lower overall usage costs.

Lithium Batteries are Lighter in Weight

The lightweight advantage of lithium batteries primarily stems from their chemical composition and construction. Lithium, being an extremely light metal, has electrochemical properties that allow for the creation of high-energy-density batteries. This means lithium batteries can be lighter than alkaline batteries without sacrificing battery capacity or power output.

A standard AA-sized alkaline battery weighs about 23 grams, while a lithium battery of the same size weighs approximately 15 grams. Although this difference may seem minor, it becomes significant in devices requiring a large number of batteries. For example, in electric vehicles, the weight of the batteries directly impacts the vehicle’s total weight and energy efficiency. Using lighter lithium batteries can reduce the weight of the vehicle, thereby improving energy efficiency and driving range.

Moreover, in portable electronic devices such as laptops, smartphones, and wearable technology, the lightweight nature of lithium batteries is crucial. It not only reduces the overall weight of the devices but also enhances user experience, making the devices more portable and comfortable.

Therefore, the lightweight characteristic of lithium batteries is a key reason for their popularity, especially in modern electronic devices that demand high energy density and lightweight design. As technology continues to advance, the weight advantage of lithium batteries will further drive their application in various fields.

Lithium Batteries Have Higher Energy Density

Energy density is a critical measure of battery performance, directly influencing the range and efficiency of battery applications. Lithium batteries typically have three to four times the energy density of alkaline batteries. Specifically, lithium batteries can achieve energy densities of 150 to 250 Wh/kg (watt-hours per kilogram), while alkaline batteries generally range between 40 to 100 Wh/kg.

This significant difference in energy density makes lithium batteries the ideal choice for high-energy-consuming devices like mobile phones, laptops, and electric vehicles. For instance, in smartphones, using lithium batteries enables long-lasting power supply without significantly increasing the phone’s weight or size. Similarly, in electric vehicles, the high energy density of lithium batteries means the vehicle can travel further on a single charge.

Additionally, lithium batteries with high energy density also exhibit better performance stability and lower self-discharge rates. This makes them more efficient for applications requiring long-term or continuous power output, such as in remote control devices, medical equipment, and various portable electronic products.

Lithium Batteries are More Environmentally Friendly

Rechargeability and Longevity

A major advantage of lithium batteries is that they are rechargeable and have a longer lifespan. This means that, compared to single-use alkaline batteries, lithium batteries generate much less waste over their entire life cycle. The ability to recharge and reuse these batteries reduces the total number of batteries needed to be manufactured and disposed of, thereby lessening the environmental burden.

Higher Energy Efficiency

Lithium batteries exhibit higher efficiency in energy conversion and storage, leading to less energy waste in practical use. The high energy density means less material and resources are needed to store the same amount of energy, reducing dependence on and extraction of natural resources.

Battery Recycling and Reuse

Lithium batteries are more amenable to recycling. While the process of recycling lithium batteries is complex and costly, many materials in lithium batteries, such as lithium, cobalt, and copper, are more readily recyclable and reusable compared to alkaline batteries. This is crucial for reducing electronic waste and sustainable management.

Environmental Impact

Although the manufacturing process of lithium batteries does impact the environment (especially in lithium mining and processing), their long-term environmental benefits are generally considered to outweigh these initial impacts. The relatively low waste generation and higher energy efficiency of lithium batteries over their lifespan help reduce the overall environmental footprint.

Reducing Harmful Substance Emissions

Compared to some types of alkaline batteries, lithium batteries usually contain less or no harmful heavy metals, such as mercury, cadmium, and lead. This means that even when the batteries are eventually disposed of, their potential environmental harm is less than batteries containing these heavy metals.

Lithium Batteries Offer Higher Return on Investment (ROI)

Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness

Initial Cost vs. Lifespan: Although lithium batteries have a higher initial purchase cost than alkaline batteries, their long lifespan and rechargeability make them more economical in the long run. A high-quality lithium battery can provide thousands of charge-discharge cycles, whereas alkaline batteries, especially non-rechargeable ones, require more frequent replacement in the short term. Even rechargeable alkaline batteries cannot match the number of cycles offered by lithium batteries. Thus, over the entire lifecycle of the battery, the total cost of lithium batteries may be lower than that of alkaline batteries.

Maintenance and Replacement Costs

Lower Maintenance and Replacement: The maintenance and replacement costs for lithium batteries are typically lower than for alkaline batteries. Due to the longer lifespan of lithium batteries, users do not need to purchase new batteries frequently, saving both the time and cost associated with battery replacement. This is particularly important in commercial and industrial applications where a large number of batteries are required.

Performance Stability

Stable Performance: Lithium batteries provide more stable performance over their entire usage cycle, including consistent energy output and voltage stability. This means devices can maintain optimal performance for longer periods, reducing maintenance and replacement costs associated with battery performance degradation.

Energy Efficiency

High Energy Density and Efficiency: Lithium batteries have a high energy density and efficient energy conversion, meaning they can more effectively use the stored energy in practical applications. This is especially important for devices that need to operate for extended periods, such as mobile phones and portable computers.

Environmental Factors

Reduced Environmental Impact: From an environmental standpoint, lithium batteries produce less waste and harmful substances, thereby reducing environmental management costs. While this doesn’t directly reflect in financial ROI, it is a crucial consideration for businesses and users aiming for sustainability and reduced environmental impact.

In summary, while lithium batteries may have a higher upfront cost, their long-term benefits in terms of lifespan, maintenance, performance stability, energy efficiency, and environmental impact make them a more cost-effective and sustainable choice compared to alkaline batteries.

Lithium Batteries Meet the Power Needs of High-Power Devices

High Power Output:

The chemical composition of lithium batteries enables them to provide high power output. This means lithium batteries can release a large amount of energy in a short time, meeting the high power demands of devices like power tools and high-speed electric vehicles. In contrast, alkaline batteries have a lower discharge rate and power output, making them unsuitable for these high-load applications.

Voltage Stability:

Lithium batteries maintain a more stable voltage throughout the discharge process, providing consistent energy output even when nearing depletion. This is different from alkaline batteries, whose voltage gradually decreases as the battery discharges, especially under high-load use. Voltage stability is crucial for ensuring the normal operation of devices, particularly those sensitive to voltage fluctuations in high-end electronics.

Longer Running Time:

Due to their high energy density, lithium batteries can store more energy in the same volume or weight. This allows lithium batteries to provide longer running times for devices without frequent charging or replacement. This feature is particularly important for devices that need to operate for extended periods or are used far from power sources, such as drones and outdoor portable devices.

Application Flexibility:

Lithium batteries can be flexibly designed and manufactured to adapt to different sizes and shapes, making them customizable for a variety of device shapes and sizes. This flexibility is crucial in specially designed electronic devices or emerging tech products.

Should I Choose Lithium or Alkaline Batteries?

Decision Criteria:

Power Requirements: Devices requiring high power output are more suited for lithium batteries.
Usage Frequency and Lifespan: Frequently used devices or those needing a long lifespan are better suited for lithium batteries.
Cost Considerations: For budget-limited and low-power devices, alkaline batteries may be a more economical choice.
Environmental Considerations: If you’re more environmentally conscious, lithium batteries are generally seen as a greener choice due to their rechargeability.
Device Design: Some specially designed devices may require specific types of batteries.

Devices Better Suited for Lithium Batteries:

Smartphones
Laptops
digital cameras
power tools
Drones
portable music player
electric vehicles
high-end gaming controllers.

Devices Better Suited for Alkaline Batteries:

Remote controls
wall clocks
small flashlights
infrequently used toys
Calculators
smoke detectors (low-power devices).

Devices Suitable for Either Lithium or Alkaline Batteries:

LED lighting
wireless mice and keyboards
non-high-performance flashlights
electronic scales
small portable radios
some children’s toys

Choosing the right battery type not only relates to device performance but can also affect long-term usage costs and convenience. Therefore, considering the specific needs and usage scenarios of the device is very important when selecting a battery.

Will Alkaline Batteries be Completely Replaced by Lithium Batteries in the Future?

No. As discussed above, both alkaline and lithium batteries have irreplaceable advantages, determined by factors such as cost, power requirements, and usage frequency. Alkaline batteries still have advantages in cost-effectiveness, stability, safety, and convenience, especially suitable for low-power, low-cost, and infrequently used devices such as remote controls, wall clocks, and some children’s toys. Also, alkaline batteries are relatively simple to store and handle, unlike lithium batteries, which require complex charging management and protection circuits. Therefore, while lithium batteries dominate in high-performance and high energy density areas, alkaline batteries continue to play an important role in many everyday applications. Both will coexist, serving different market needs in a complementary rather than competitive or replacement relationship.

Regarding the Alkaline and Lithium Battery Video Guide:

Was This Article Helpful to You?

If you find this article helpful, feel free to comment and share with people around you. We invite readers worldwide to correct any errors found in this article. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact us for timely corrections or improvements. We respect the genuine feedback of every reader.

It’s your turn.

Author Profile

Thomas Chen

Thomas Chen is a seasoned expert in the new energy industry, with a focus on lithium battery technology. A Shenzhen University alumnus, class of 2010, Thomas has cultivated a wealth of experience through pivotal roles at EVE and BYD. Renowned for his profound insights into the sector, he possesses a unique aptitude for identifying market trends and understanding customer needs. His articles offer a distinctive perspective, drawn from a rich background in the field.

Leave the first comment (Cancel Reply)

Lithium batteries and alkaline batteries are both common types of batteries in our daily lives. According to common knowledge, we usually use alkaline batteries for children’s toys, quartz clocks, remote controls, and other similar devices. However, in the realm of mobile phones, computers, cameras, and other areas, lithium batteries are commonly used. Why are lithium batteries used in some fields while alkaline batteries are preferred in others? What are the differences between them? If you’re confused about this, then this article will visually help you understand everything you want to know!

Basics of Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are indispensable sources of energy in high-end portable electronic devices. To fully understand lithium batteries, we need to look at the following key dimensions:

Types of Lithium Batteries

By kind: Divided into lithium-ion batteries (containing nickel, cobalt, manganese) and lithium iron phosphate batteries.
By shape: Can be categorized into prismatic, cylindrical, and polymer types.
Popular Types: Lithium-ion and lithium iron phosphate batteries are the most popular, each having specific application fields.

How Lithium Batteries Work

Electrochemical Reaction: Lithium ions move between the anode and cathode, accompanied by the flow of electrons in the external circuit.
Internal Structure: Includes a separator (prevents electron penetration) and electrolyte (a medium for lithium-ion conduction).
Charging and Discharging Process: Lithium ions deposit at the anode during charging and return to the cathode during discharge.

Advantages:

High energy density, longer usage time.
Longer charge-discharge cycle life.
Rapid charge and discharge capability, convenient for quick recharging.
Low self-discharge rate, minimal energy loss during storage.

Disadvantages:

Relatively high manufacturing cost.
Temperature sensitivity, performance affected under extreme temperatures.
Safety risks, improper handling can lead to accidents.

Basics of Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline batteries are traditional and widely used in various household devices. Understanding alkaline batteries can be done from several perspectives:

Types of Alkaline Batteries

By composition: Mainly zinc-manganese dioxide batteries.
By size: Common sizes include AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V.
By application: Designed for low-power devices like remote controls, or high-power devices like digital cameras.

How Alkaline Batteries Work

Chemical Reaction: Electron transfer between zinc (anode) and manganese dioxide (cathode) through an alkaline electrolyte (usually potassium hydroxide).
Power Generation Mechanism: During discharge, zinc in the battery oxidizes, releasing energy.
Discharge Process: Electrons flow through the external circuit from the anode to the cathode, powering the device and generating current.

Advantages:

Low cost and easily accessible.
Higher energy density compared to old zinc-carbon batteries.
Long shelf life and low self-discharge rate.
Suitable for a wide range of temperatures.

Disadvantages:

Non-rechargeable, leading to greater waste and cost over time.
Lower performance under high-power conditions compared to lithium batteries.
Potential leakage of potassium hydroxide, which can corrode and damage devices.

Why Are There Different Sizes of Batteries?

The variety in battery sizes primarily exists to meet specific power and size requirements of different devices. Here are some key reasons:

Device Power Requirements: Different devices need different levels of current and voltage. For example, watches and remote controls require far less battery power compared to high-power devices like cameras.
Device Size Limitations: Small portable devices need smaller batteries to save space, whereas larger devices can accommodate bigger batteries, providing longer battery life.
Economic Efficiency: Standardized battery sizes allow for mass production, reducing manufacturing costs, and also make it easier for consumers to purchase and replace them.
Safety Considerations: Different sizes have varying capacities and discharge rates, helping to reduce device damage or safety incidents due to inappropriate current or voltage.
Compatibility and Universality: Standardized battery sizes ensure they can be used across multiple devices, eliminating the need for unique battery shapes and sizes for each device.

As technology evolves, the standardization of battery sizes also progresses to meet the demands of emerging devices, reflecting trends in environmental protection and sustainability. Standardized sizes not only provide convenience for consumers but also enable possibilities for battery recycling and reuse. With the proliferation of IoT and portable electronic devices, the diversity and standardization of battery sizes will continue to be an important area of development.