Both LiFePO4 and LiPo batteries have significant importance when deciding what you want to charge or give an electric charge to—for example, a device. Also, for those who are having trouble differentiating between these two batteries, this article is here for your rescue. This article will dive into the specs of these batteries and their components, including the pros and cons of using each. So if that sounds interesting, then continue reading.
LiFePO4 batteries
LiFePO4 batteries are essentially Lithium batteries whose main chemical component is Lithium iron phosphate. Other similar batteries that fall in this category include; (LiNiMnCoO2) Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide, (LiCoO22) Lithium Cobalt Oxide, Lithium Titanate (LTO), etc.
Notably, these batteries are far more advantageous to use than other lithium batteries and other lead-acid batteries. Some of the advantages of using the LiFePO4 batteries are improved discharge, high safety level, longer life span, etc. Since they are the most efficient lithium batteries on the market, they don’t come cheaply. However, you’ll see that it’s worth the investment mainly because of its low maintenance requirements and longer life span.
LiPo Batteries
Lithium iron polymer batteries generally rely on the movement of lithium ions to and from the positive to the negative electrode for them to function. Also, this is one of the properties that make it rechargeable. Most importantly, the electrode material of the LiPo batteries consists of an intercalated lithium compound.
Presently, the most popular materials used for the LiPo batteries’ cathode materials are; Lithium, Manganate, lithium, cobalt oxide, and lithium iron phosphate. Like LiFePo4 batteries, the LiPo batteries also have some benefits and drawbacks, which you’ll see later to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your needs.
What’s the difference between LiFePO4 and LiPo batteries
For a particular device running on a LiPo battery to release a lot of energy over a short period, LiPo batteries spell out some of the most efficient properties, e.g., charging and discharging large electrical current.
If you come across any power or racing tool, chances are a LiPo battery is powering it. They include; RC cars, drones, etc. Notably, RC models use LiPo batteries capable of reaching a discharge of 15C, 30C, and 50C. LiPo batteries with higher power discharge rates can reach up to 150 pulses and 50C continuous. Such batteries have a long lifespan, are lightweight, and can be modeled into various shapes.
LiFePo4 batteries, on the other hand, are on a whole different level when comparing their lifecycle length with that of LIPO. Generally, LiFePO4 batteries have up to 5 times high, which translates to more than 2000 cycles.
Note that you can use the LiFePO4 battery for a more extended period without worrying about discharge as it can reach 100% DOD, i.e., depth of discharge. You can use the LiFePO4 battery for 3 to 7 years. And though these batteries don’t come cheaply, they are still affordable.
Even though the LiFePO4 batteries are efficient, you should never use them on wearable devices, mainly due to the low energy density than the LiPo batteries. Additionally, the LiFePO4 batteries don’t have favorable compatibility or good endurance with the internal conditions of wearable devices.
Pros and cons of using LiFePO4 batteries
Pros
It doesn’t require maintenance
When considering extending the lifespan of a LiFePO4 battery, you don’t have to worry about maintaining them. Moreover, they don’t show any sign of memory effect as they have a relatively low self-discharge that’s 3% less per month. Also, you can store them over an extended period and still work perfectly, unlike the lead-acid batteries that require special maintenance.
Very safe to use
To achieve the utmost efficiency with the LiFePo4 batteries, most manufacturing companies use high-quality materials and the latest technology to ensure you get a quality LiFePo4 battery. Generally, LiFePo4 batteries are manufactured with safety in mind, so you don’t have to worry about any safety issues.
High Level of efficiency
Notably, LiFePo4 batteries are highly efficient 100% capacity available from the time of purchase. In addition, their rates for discharge and fast charge are relatively higher, which makes them an excellent fit for a wide range of applications. Also, its fast-charging property ensures high efficiency and reduced downtime. Generally, the high discharge rate of the LiFePo4 battery delivers high bursts of power in a short time, making it a power-efficient battery.
Other advantages of using the LiFePo4 battery include:
- It can still operate under high temperatures
- It is lightweight
- It has a long life span
Cons
- Are liable to suffer aging and transportation effects
- They have low nominal voltage, which reduces the overall energy of the battery
Pros and cons of using LiPO batteries
Pros
Large capacity
Compared to steel case batteries with similar features, e.g., size, the LiPo batteries have about 10%~15% more capacity. Moreover, the LiPo batteries have around 5%~10% more capacity than aluminum-cased batteries. MMS and color screen mobile phones are a few devices that use this type of battery.
Customizable shape
One crucial feature why most customers find LiPo batteries reliable is their customizable shape. You can have the thickness of the cells increased as per your requirements—for example; it can be tailored to shape your phone to enhance battery capacity.
Excellent safety performance
Soft aluminum-plastic packaging is the Common form of LiPo batteries that are structured which is by far the best for safety performance from the liquid batteries with metal cases. While the Lipo batteries will only inflate upon a safety hazard, the liquid-based batteries will most likely explode.
The above advantages are among the top few. Other advantages of using the LiPo batteries include:
- They can be made thinner
- They are lightweight
- Their protection plates are reliably made for safety
- Excellent discharge properties
- Their internal resistance is relatively small
Cons
- It may be a fire hazard if the battery is punctured
- It requires proper care for storage, charging, and discharging
Conclusion
Both the LiFePo4 and LiPo batteries have their advantages and drawback, as outlined above. However, they’re both excellent fits depending on your needs. Advisable, you should purchase the batteries from a trusted dealer to avoid problems associated with life cycles, performance, quality, etc. Conclusively you can confidently go to a trusted battery dealer with the utmost confidence of getting the correct battery per your specifications.
