Soshine Batteries

Soshine Batteries and Chargers: What to Expect

Soshine offers practical, budget-friendly rechargeable batteries and smart chargers covering Li-ion, LiFePO4, and NiMH chemistries. The range spans popular sizes like AA/AAA, 14500/16340, 18650, 21700, and 26650, plus USB-powered chargers with independent bays. Most users choose Soshine for everyday reliability and good value rather than absolute top-tier performance.

When Soshine Is a Good Fit

• Everyday and hobby use: Flashlights, headlamps, LED panels, radios, toys, and RC transmitters.
• Mixed battery drawer: One charger for Li-ion, LiFePO4, and NiMH cells.
• Cost-conscious builds: Projects that need dependable power without premium pricing.

Avoid if you need manufacturer-certified packs for critical gear (e.g., medical devices) or the absolute highest discharge ratings used in competitive high-drain applications.

How to Choose a Soshine Cell

1) Pick the right chemistry

• Li-ion (3.6/3.7 V nominal): Best energy density and runtime. Use for high-output flashlights and portable electronics. Requires a charger with Li-ion mode (4.2 V termination).
• LiFePO4 (3.2 V nominal): Excellent cycle life and thermal stability; lower energy density. Good for solar lights, backup systems, and devices designed for 3.2 V cells. Needs a charger with LiFePO4 mode (3.6 V termination).
• NiMH (1.2 V nominal): AA/AAA replacements for remotes, toys, and low/medium-drain devices. Look for low self-discharge variants for infrequent use.

2) Match the size and top style

• Sizes: 14500/16340/18650/21700/26650 and others. Verify your device’s required size.
• Button-top vs. flat-top: Many flashlights need button-top; some devices and battery sleds prefer flat-top.
• Protected vs. unprotected: Protected Li-ion cells include a small PCB and are longer; choose them for consumer devices without built-in battery management. Unprotected cells are for hosts that already manage protection and for experienced users.

3) Choose capacity vs. current

• High-capacity: Longer runtime, usually lower max discharge (good for moderate-drain lights and electronics).
• High-drain: Higher current delivery, slightly less capacity (better for turbo-brightness flashlights or tools that draw several amps).

Selecting a Soshine Charger

• Independent bays: Charge different chemistries/sizes at the same time without pairing cells.
• Supported chemistries: Ensure LiFePO4 mode if you use 3.2 V cells; NiMH mode should support -ΔV termination.
• Charge rate control: Typical safe rates are 0.3–0.5C for Li-ion. Example: 3000 mAh cell at 1 A is a gentle, everyday setting.
• Power input: Many models use USB; some include USB-C input. Verify required adapter power (e.g., 5 V/2 A).
• Readouts and safety: Look for per-slot voltage/current display, reverse-polarity protection, and automatic shutoff.

Quick Runtime Planning

Rule of thumb: Runtime (hours) ≈ Capacity (mAh) ÷ Average draw (mA) × 0.85 (efficiency factor).

Example: A flashlight drawing ~3 A (3000 mA) on high with a 3000 mAh 18650: 3000 ÷ 3000 × 0.85 ≈ 0.85 hours (about 50 minutes). Turbo modes often step down, extending real-world runtime.

Safety and Care

• Use the correct charger mode for the chemistry (Li-ion 4.2 V, LiFePO4 3.6 V, NiMH -ΔV).
• Do not mix old and new cells or different brands/capacities in the same series/parallel set.
• Store Li-ion/LiFePO4 around 30–60% charge in a cool, dry place; check every 3–6 months.
• Avoid deep discharges (<2.5 V Li-ion, <2.0 V LiFePO4) and high heat during use/charge.
• Inspect wraps regularly; rewrap or replace damaged cells. Recycle at end of life.

Compatibility Notes

• Protected cells are longer; confirm your device’s length tolerance.
• Most Soshine chargers support standard cell sizes and can charge reputable third-party batteries; verify slot length (e.g., long 21700 with protection) before purchase.
• Devices expecting primary (non-rechargeable) lithium cells may not be compatible with rechargeable chemistries—check the manual.

Common Use Cases

• Flashlights and headlamps: 18650/21700 high-capacity or high-drain cells.
• Photo/Video lighting: Consistent output with Li-ion packs or multiple 18650 cells.
• Everyday electronics: NiMH AA/AAA for remotes, toys, and sensors.
• Solar and backup: LiFePO4 for stability and long cycle life.

FAQ

Are Soshine chargers safe to use with other brands of batteries?

Yes, most are compatible with standard sizes from reputable brands. Always match chemistry and confirm slot length and charge settings before use.

Should I buy protected or unprotected Li-ion cells?

Choose protected cells for devices without built-in protection or if you prefer added safety. Use unprotected cells only in hosts that manage protection and when length/fit requires it.

How long will charging take?

Approximate time = capacity (mAh) ÷ charge current (mA) × 1.2. Example: 3000 mAh at 1 A (1000 mA) takes about 3.6 hours including top-off.

Can I charge LiFePO4 on a regular Li-ion setting?

No. Use a LiFePO4 setting with 3.6 V termination. Charging LiFePO4 at 4.2 V can damage the cell.

What’s the difference between 16340 and CR123A?

CR123A is a 3.0 V non-rechargeable primary lithium cell; 16340 is a similarly sized 3.6/3.7 V rechargeable Li-ion. Use only what your device specifies.