Cell Phone Batteries

Cell Phone Batteries

What are the different types of cell phone batteries?

Cell phone batteries come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different cell phone types. When you are shopping for a replacement phone battery, make sure to find one that is compatible with your model of cell phone. Less obvious, however, are the different types of technology behind these batteries. Let us help you learn about the four basic cell phone battery technology levels.

Older Types of Cell Phone Batteries

The oldest cell phone battery technology is Nickel Cadmium (NiCd). NiCd batteries are generally heavier and larger than newer phone battery types. NiCd batteries contain toxic chemicals and must be disposed of carefully to avoid damage to the environment. Another older cell phone battery type is Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH). These are slightly more efficient and recharge more quickly than NiCd batteries.

The biggest drawback of both these types is what is often called the 'memory effect.' If nickel-based batteries are discharged and recharged only partially, they will ''remember'' this charge level and provide only that partial power capacity for your cell phone in the future. The memory effect reduces the battery's overall lifespan as well. Nickel-based batteries are, however, cheaper than newer technologies.

Lithium-Based Cell Phone Battery Technology

Newer cell phone batteries use lithium technology. Lithium batteries have the great advantage of not suffering from the memory effect. They generally last longer than their nickel-based counterparts as well. Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) technology is fairly widespread for cell phone use. A Li-Ion battery can be lighter and thinner than a nickel-based battery. The most advanced type of technology is Lithium Polymer. This battery type is the most resistant to explosion and can be very thin and light. It may last up to fifty times longer than a nickel-based battery in a cell phone. As the newest technology, a Lithium Polymer battery is often also the most expensive.

What Kind of Battery Can I Use?

Before purchasing a new cell phone battery, you must determine what kind of technology your phone is compatible with. An older cell phone may be designed to work with a nickel-based battery and will not be able to accept lithium technology. Manufacturers may mark a battery with its technology type, so take a look at the battery currently in your phone to see what kind of replacement technology you need.