XTAR Batteries

XTAR Batteries and Chargers

XTAR produces rechargeable lithium-ion cells and intelligent chargers used in flashlights, headlamps, cameras, vape devices, radios, and test gear. The lineup spans compact travel chargers to 8-bay workhorses and cells in popular sizes such as 14500, 16340 (RCR123A), 18650, 21700, and 26650.

What XTAR Offers

• Rechargeable Li-ion cells: protected and unprotected, high-drain or high-capacity options.
• Smart chargers: independent bays, automatic CC/CV charging, 0 V activation, and clear status indicators; some models add storage mode and internal-resistance readouts.
• Multi-bay capacity: 2, 4, and 8-slot models for mixed sizes, with per-slot current control on supported units.
• Travel and USB-C options: compact, USB-powered chargers for on-the-go use.

How to Choose an XTAR Battery

1) Match size and voltage

Confirm the exact size your device accepts. Most Li-ion cells are 3.6–3.7 V nominal and are not drop-in replacements for 1.5 V alkaline cells unless the device specifically supports Li-ion (for example, 14500 vs AA). Always check the device manual.

Size	Nominal V	Typical capacity	Common uses
10440	3.7 V	300–350 mAh	Mini lights, small electronics
14500	3.7 V	700–1000 mAh	Compact flashlights (AA-size devices that support Li-ion)
16340 (RCR123A)	3.7 V	650–800 mAh	Compact lights, cameras
18650	3.6–3.7 V	2500–3600 mAh	Flashlights, cameras, tools
21700	3.6–3.7 V	4000–5000 mAh	High-output lights, gear with longer runtimes
26650	3.6–3.7 V	4000–5200 mAh	Large lights, longer runtime devices

2) Choose high-drain vs high-capacity

• Use high-drain cells when your device draws large current bursts (for example, turbo flashlight modes, vape devices). Expect lower capacity but better voltage stability under load.
• Choose high-capacity cells for moderate current draw where runtime matters most (for example, headlamps on medium, LED panels).

3) Decide on protection

• Protected cells add overcharge, over-discharge, and short-circuit protection. Use them in devices without robust battery management.
• Unprotected cells are suitable only if your device has reliable built-in protection and low-voltage cutoff.

How to Choose an XTAR Charger

• Number of bays: 1–2 for travel; 4 for regular users; 8 for batch charging.
• Per-slot current: 0.5–1 A is gentle for most cells; 1–2 A shortens charge time. If unsure, select 0.5–1 A.
• Power input: USB, USB-C, or wall adapters. Higher input power supports higher per-slot current.
• Features: look for storage mode, IR measurement, and capacity testing if you monitor battery health.
• Chemistry support: most XTAR models focus on Li-ion; some also support NiMH. Check the model specs.

Use a compact USB charger for travel and occasional top-ups. Choose a 4–8 bay model with independent slots if you rotate several cells or manage gear for a team.

Charging and Care Best Practices

• Select a conservative charge rate around 0.5 C when possible. Example: for a 3000 mAh cell, about 1.5 A; when unsure, 0.5–1 A is a safe, cell-friendly range.
• Avoid deep discharge. Recharge before the cell drops below about 3.0 V. If a cell measures under 2.5 V, recover only with a charger that supports it and retire the cell if it heats, self-discharges, or shows damage.
• Store at 40–60 percent charge in a cool, dry place (about 59–77°F / 15–25°C). Top up every few months.
• Inspect wraps and tops regularly. Rewrap or replace cells with torn sleeves, dented cans, or corroded terminals.
• Transport in a protective case. Keep away from metal objects to prevent shorts.

Runtime and Performance Estimates

Quick estimate: runtime (hours) ≈ capacity (mAh) ÷ load (mA). Real-world results vary with efficiency, temperature, and cutoff.

• Example: a 3000 mAh 18650 powering a 2 A light draws about 2000 mA, giving roughly 1.2–1.5 hours on high.
• High-drain use and cold weather can reduce runtime by 20–30 percent or more.

Compatibility Notes

• XTAR chargers accept most industry-standard Li-ion sizes. Very long protected cells (especially some 21700) may be tight in certain slots—check length specifications.
• Button-top vs flat-top: some devices require button-top cells for reliable contact. Verify before purchasing.
• Do not use rechargeable Li-ion cells where the device expects primary CR123A or 1.5 V alkaline unless it explicitly supports the higher Li-ion voltage.

FAQs

Are XTAR chargers compatible with other battery brands?

Yes, they are designed for standard-format rechargeable Li-ion cells. Do not charge primary lithium or alkaline batteries.

What charge current should I select?

If the charger allows selection, 0.5–1 A is a safe default for most 18650/21700 cells. Use higher current only if the cell specifications allow it and heat is well managed.

What is storage mode?

Storage mode brings a cell to about 3.6–3.7 V to reduce stress when the battery will sit unused for weeks or months.

Do I need protected or unprotected cells?

Choose protected cells for general consumer devices and unprotected only when your device has robust protection and you understand the risks.