14500 Battery vs AA Battery: Comprehensive Comparison Guide

14500 batteries and AA batteries are similar in size but have completely different chemistries. The 14500 battery is physically the same size as an AA battery.

The 14500 battery is rechargeable, with a voltage of 3.7V, while a standard AA battery has a voltage of 1.5V. The 14500 uses lithium chemistry and typically has a capacity of around 600 mAh. In comparison, alkaline AA batteries have about 2000 mAh, NiCd AA batteries around 800 mAh, and NiMH AA batteries about 2000 mAh.

So, what exactly is the difference between 14500 batteries and AA batteries? This article will explain in detail.

What is a 14500 Battery?

A 14500 battery is a rechargeable lithium battery. Its size and shape are identical to a standard AA battery.

One important point to note: all standard alkaline AA batteries are 1.5 volts, while 14500 batteries are 3.7 volts. That is a major difference.

What is an AA Battery?

Like the 14500, an AA battery measures 14 × 50 mm. However, a standard AA battery has a nominal voltage of 1.5V, which differs from the 14500. Its capacity typically ranges from 1800 to 2700 mAh.

The chemistry also differs between rechargeable and non-rechargeable AA batteries. Rechargeable AA batteries are available in Li-ion, NiMH, or NiCd chemistries, but most AA batteries in common use are non-rechargeable alkaline cells.

Comparison between 14500 Battery and AA Battery

Dimension

The 14500 lithium battery has the same dimensions as a standard AA battery. A typical AA battery measures approximately 14 × 50 mm, which matches the size of a 14500 lithium battery.

Chemistry

The 14500 battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, usually based on NCM ternary chemistry. In contrast, AA batteries can come in several chemistries, including alkaline, zinc-carbon, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), and lithium-ion.

Voltage

The nominal voltages of 14500 and AA batteries are different. A 14500 battery provides 3.7 volts, while a standard AA battery delivers 1.5 volts, meaning they operate at different voltage levels.

Capacity

Currently, the 14500 battery typically offers 500–800 mAh. AA lithium-ion batteries range from 1700–2700 mAh, while alkaline AA batteries have capacities between 600–2700 mAh.

Performance

The 14500 battery generally has higher energy density and can power devices for longer periods on a full charge. AA batteries usually have lower capacity, are often non-rechargeable, and are designed for single-use applications.

Lifespan

AA alkaline batteries are typically disposable and cannot be recharged. In contrast, 14500 batteries can be charged and discharged approximately 800–1000 times, making them suitable for long-term use.

Is a 14500 Battery the Same as an AA Battery?

No. Although 14500 and AA batteries are the same size, they have significantly different voltages due to their distinct chemistries.

Standard AA batteries typically use alkaline, lithium, or zinc-chloride chemistries, with a nominal voltage of 1.5V. Rechargeable AA batteries, such as NiMH or NiCd cells, usually have a nominal voltage of 1.2V.

The 14500 battery, on the other hand, uses lithium chemistry and has a nominal voltage of 3.6–3.7V. It is rechargeable, but because of the higher voltage, it is not always a suitable replacement for AA batteries. Whether a 14500 can replace an AA depends on the specific device and its voltage tolerance.

Can We Replace AA Batteries with 14500 Batteries?

Generally, due to the voltage difference, 14500 batteries cannot directly replace standard AA batteries.

However, some devices—mainly certain AA flashlights—are designed to support both AA and 14500 batteries.

For occasional use, non-rechargeable AA batteries (preferably high-quality, low self-discharge types) are recommended. For frequent use, 14500 batteries are a better choice due to their rechargeability and higher energy density.

Which Battery is Better? 14500 Battery vs AA Battery

In terms of commercial popularity, AA batteries are more widely used, having been common for over 20 years, whereas 14500 batteries have only gained popularity in the past decade. However, in terms of application potential, rechargeable 14500 batteries offer clear advantages, such as higher energy density and rechargeability.

Can We Charge a 14500 Battery in an AA Battery Charger?

Even though a 14500 Li-Ion battery is the same size as an AA battery, its voltage and specifications are very different. Disposable AA alkaline batteries output 1.5 volts, while a 14500 Li-Ion battery outputs 3.7 volts—more than double. Therefore, a standard AA charger will not charge a 14500 properly. To ensure safety and maintain battery performance, always use a charger specifically designed for Li-Ion batteries when charging 14500 cells.