Lithium batteries are one of the most widely used types of batteries on the market.

You can find them almost everywhere from laptops and cellphones to pacemakers, watches, and satellites. One of the reasons why they are so common is because they are one of the longest-lasting, rechargeable batteries available.

If you have a device that relies on lithium batteries, you have probably wondered, "how long do lithium batteries last?"

Read on to find out. 

Benefits of Lithium Batteries

One of the biggest perks of lithium batteries is that they are much lighter than other types of rechargeable batteries. So when weight matters, lithium is the first choice for many manufacturers.

As the name implies, the electrodes in these batteries are made of lightweight lithium coupled with carbon.

As you might remember from high school science, lithium is a highly reactive element. That means that a lot of energy can be stored within its atomic bonds. In other words, lithium batteries have a high density.

For example, the average lithium battery can hold 150 watt-hours of electricity in a 1kg battery. Compare that to a nickel-metal hydride battery that can store 50-70 watt-hours in a 1kg battery.

That means that to store the same amount of energy, you would need 6 kilograms of nickel-metal hydride battery. That&aposs a huge difference. 

So lightweight and dense is all well and good, but what about longevity? 

How Long Do Lithium Batteries Last?

A lithium-ion battery is excellent at holding its charge. You also do not need to let it fully discharge before recharging which is the case with some other types of batteries.

Best of all, lithium batteries can last through hundreds of charge/discharge cycles.

In ideal conditions, lithium batteries can last up to three years.

Yet, ideal conditions are not likely what is happening in your home. Here are the factors that impact the question of how long do lithium batteries last. 

Temperature

Lithium batteries are very sensitive to high temperatures. Heat causes these battery packs to degrade faster than they would in milder temps.

This means that charging with higher voltage will lead to a hotter battery. Yet, because these batteries charge quickly, this is not usually a problem. 

Age

Lithium batteries only last two to three years from the date that they are manufactured. Even if it sits in a drawer not used, that&aposs still the maximum lifespan you can expect.

That&aposs why it&aposs crucial to check the manufacturing dates when you are buying a replacement battery. If it&aposs been sitting on a store shelf for a year, it won&apost last as long as you&aposd like.

Enjoy your Li-Ion Batteries

Now you know the answer to these questions: how long do lithium batteries last? and what are the benefits of lithium batteries?

We hope your new understanding of how lithium batteries work will help you as you choose battery-operated products. 

Check out our extensive online catalog for all your battery needs.