LiPos › LiPo vs Li-ion: the differences
LiPo vs Li-ion: the differences
Both are lithium batteries and both need care, but they are built and used differently. Here is how to tell them apart and when each makes sense.
Same family, different build
Lithium-ion is the family name for most rechargeable lithium batteries, from phones to e-bikes. LiPo (lithium polymer) is a type that uses a polymer electrolyte and is usually made in flat, flexible pouches. Many phone and laptop batteries are lithium polymer too, so the words overlap in everyday use. In the hobby world, LiPo usually means a soft-pouch pack designed for high current, and Li-ion usually means cylindrical cells such as the 18650 or 21700 types.
Comparison
| Hobby LiPo | Cylindrical Li-ion | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Soft pouch, flat packs | Rigid metal can, cylinder |
| Strength | High discharge rates, light | Higher capacity for the weight at moderate current, longer life |
| Typical use | Racing drones, RC cars, planes | Long-range FPV, laptops, tools, e-bikes |
| Damage tolerance | Soft case, easily punctured or dented | Rigid case, but still can fail |
| Cell voltage | 3.7 V nominal, 4.2 V full | Typically the same range, though some chemistries differ |
These are general differences. Individual products vary a lot, so check the datasheet.
What they share
- Both can overheat and burn if overcharged, short-circuited, crushed or damaged.
- Both should be charged with the right charger, not left unattended and not charged when damaged.
- Both must be recycled properly, not binned.
- Both count as lithium batteries for air travel. See flying with lithium batteries.
Fire services speak about lithium-ion batteries in general: West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue says battery fires spread quickly, are hard to put out and produce highly toxic smoke. That applies to LiPo as well.
Storage voltage
For a typical LiPo cell, 3.8 to 3.85 V is a storage charge, per BYU. Other Li-ion types may have different recommendations, so follow the maker. See storage voltage.
Which should you choose?
- Punchy, light, short flights: LiPo, with a suitable C rating.
- Long range or long run time at moderate current: Li-ion packs are popular.
- Everyday devices: use the battery the maker specifies. Do not swap chemistry or cell count.
Whatever you choose, match the charger to the chemistry: LiPo setting for LiPo, and a Li-ion setting for Li-ion. See charging and disposal.
Reading the label
Real packs print their chemistry, cell count, capacity and often the Wh on the label. If a pack has no label, no maker's name or a suspiciously high C rating for the price, treat it with caution. Cheap unbranded packs are one reason fire services warn about fake products. Buy from a reputable supplier and keep the original packaging or spec sheet.
Protection circuits
Many consumer devices have a battery management system that cuts power or stops charging when something goes wrong. Bare hobby LiPo packs usually do not. That puts the responsibility on you and your charger, which is why the charging rules matter so much for hobby packs.
E-bikes and scooters
E-bike and scooter batteries are lithium-ion packs with their own battery management systems. Use only the charger supplied or recommended by the maker, as fire services advise. Do not charge them in escape routes or overnight when you are asleep.
This is general information, not a substitute for the instructions that came with your battery and charger. If your manufacturer's advice differs, follow the manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions
Is LiPo the same as Li-ion?
LiPo is a type of lithium-ion battery with a polymer electrolyte. In hobbies, LiPo usually means soft-pouch high-current packs.
Which is safer, LiPo or Li-ion?
Neither is safe if abused. Soft-pouch LiPos are easier to damage, but both can fail in a fire.
Can I charge Li-ion on a LiPo setting?
Use the setting for the chemistry. Check your charger's manual.
Do both need recycling?
Yes. Never put either in household waste.