What battery is better than LiFePO4?
LiFePO4 VS Lithium-Ion Batteries: Which One Is Right for You
LiFePO4 VS Lithium-Ion Batteries: Which One Is Right for You
Check now Lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries are two popular battery types used in solar generators and power stations. While lithium-ion batteries have been commonly used in off-grid solar power systems for years, LiFePO4 batteries have recently gained popularity. Li-ion and LiFePO4 batteries have significant advantages, making them ideal for backup power stations. In this guide, we'll walk you through the LiFePO4 vs. lithium-ion comparison in detail, so you can understand which battery backup suits your needs. Jackery manufactures a wide range of solar generators, ranging from a lithium-ion battery of 293Wh to 3024Wh capacity. The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station features a LiFePO4 battery that can be expanded from 2kWh to 24kWh using the Battery Pack 2000 Plus. Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station LiFePO4 (or lithium iron phosphate) batteries are a subtype of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that utilize unique chemistry to provide advantages over lithium technologies. The cathode of LFPs is made from lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), whereas the anode is typically made from carbon. Since LiFePO4 does not contain cobalt, they are a more eco-friendly choice. Pros Cons Voltage Nominal voltage: 3.20 to 3.30V Typical operating range: 2.5 to 3.65V per cell Specific Energy (or Capacity) 90 to 120 Wh/Kg Charge (C-rate) 1C typical charges to 3.65V Typical charge time: 3 hours Discharge (C-rate) 1C, 25C on some cells, 40A pulse (2s) Cut-off (lower than 2V causes damage): 2.50V Cycle life 2000 and higher Thermal runaway 270°C (518°F) Highly safe battery even when charged fully Applications Electric vehicles, solar generators, portable power stations, etc. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in power stations and sensitive electronic devices like laptops, cameras, and mobile phones. They have high energy storage capabilities and comparatively lower self-discharge rates. These batteries also include three essential components: an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte. What differentiates lithium-ion from LiFePO4 is the cathode made of lithium metal oxides. Pros Cons Lithium-Ion Battery Summary Table Voltage Nominal voltage: 3.60 to 3.70V Typical operating range: 3.0 to 4.2V per cell Specific Energy (or Capacity) 150 to 220 Wh/Kg Charge (C-rate) 0.7-1C typical charges to 4.20V or 4.30V Typical charge time: 3 hours Discharge (C-rate) 1C, 2C on some cells Cut-off (lower than 2V causes damage): 2.50V Cycle life 1000 to 2000 and higher Thermal runaway 210°C (410°F) High charge to promote thermal runaway Applications Electric vehicles, solar generators, e-bikes, portable power stations, etc. Lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries are widely used in solar generators and power stations. While both are safe and secure battery types, some differences set them apart. Let's compare lithium-ion vs. LiFePO4 below. LiFePO4 Battery Lithium-Ion Battery Chemistry Lithium, iron, and phosphate Metallic lithium and cathode materials, such as nickel, manganese, and cobalt Energy Level (Density) Lower Higher Safety Highly Safe Highly Safe Charging & Discharging The self-discharge rate is around 3% per month The self-discharge rate is about 5% per month Lifespan 2000-6000 life cycles 800-1000 life cycles Temperature -4°F (-20°C) to 140°F (60°C) 32°F (or 0°C) to 113°F (or 45°C) Voltage Lower voltage Higher voltage Weight Heavier Lighter Warranty Depends on brand Depends on brand Applications Solar batteries, electric vehicles, recreational vehicles, and more. Phones, battery backups, and other small rechargeable devices. Let's dig deeper into each parameter and compare LiFePO4 vs lithium-ion. LiFePO4 batteries consist of lithium, iron, and phosphate ions, making them relatively safer, more stable, and lighter than conventional ones. In contrast, Li-ion batteries contain metallic lithium and composite cathode materials like nickel, cobalt, or manganese. Lithium-ion batteries generally have higher energy density than LiFePO4. That means Li-ion batteries can store more power and have long-lasting battery life. On the contrary, LiFePO4 is also suitable for backup power with high safety and extended life. LiFePO4 is less prone to exploding and overheating, making them highly safe. By contrast, lithium-ion batteries without BMS or protective algorithms can catch fire or overheat when not used properly. However, lithium-ion batteries with battery system management are highly safe for solar power systems. The state of charge of a lithium-ion battery varies significantly depending on the voltage. In contrast, the SoC level of LiFePO4 is not easily distinguished by voltage level. For this reason, it is easy to understand the accurate SoC of lithium-ion batteries, whereas calculating the SoC accuracy of lithium-iron phosphate batteries is challenging. NCM LFP Charge-Discharge Rate SOC Estimation It is possible to accurately diagnose SoC. It is challenging to diagnose the exact SoC by its voltage. Accuracy in SOC Diagnosis ±1~2% ±10% Upper Voltage Limit 4.2 3.6 Both Li-ion and LiFePO4 batteries are known for their long lifespan. Generally, the lifespan of NMC lithium-ion batteries is 800-1000 times, whereas LiFePO4 battery cycle life is over 6000 times. The operating temperature range of LiFePO4 battery backups is more comprehensive than Li-ions. Lithium-iron phosphate batteries can efficiently operate in cold and hot environments without power loss. The voltage directly impacts the design of battery packs and device voltage requirements. Typically, LiFePO4 batteries have a low nominal voltage of 3.2V per cell compared to Li-ion, with a nominal voltage of 3.6-3.7V per cell. Lithium-ion Charge Capacity (%) 1 Cell 12 Volt 24 Volt 48 Volt 100 3.40 13.6 27.2 54.4 90 3.35 13.4 26.8 53.6 80 3.32 13.3 26.6 53.1 70 3.30 13.2 26.4 52.8 60 3.27 13.1 26.1 52.3 50 3.26 13.0 26.0 52.2 40 3.25 13.0 26.0 52.0 30 3.22 12.9 25.8 52.5 20 3.20 12.8 25.6 51.2 10 3.00 OMMO contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
What Is A LiFePO4 Battery?
LiFePO4 Summary Table
What Is A Lithium-Ion Battery?
LiFePO4 Vs. Lithium-Ion Batteries
Chemistry
Energy Level (Density)
Safety
Charging & Discharging
Lifespan
Temperature
Voltage
Prepaid Electricity Pros & Cons
12.0
24.0
48.0
0
2.50
10.0
20.0
40.0
LiFePO4 Capacity
12V
24V
48V
100% Charging
14.6
29.2
58.4
100% Resting
13.6
27.2
54.4
90%
13.4
26.8
53.6
80%
13.3
26.6
53.1
70%
13.2
26.4
52.8
60%
13.1
26.1
52.3
50%
13.0
26.1
52.2
40%
13.0
26.0
52.0
30%
12.9
25.8
51.5
20%
12.8
25.6
51.2
10%
12.0
24.0
48.0
0%
10.0
20.0
40.0
Weight
Compared to lithium-ion batteries, LiFePO4 tends to be heavier due to its lower energy density. However, the exact weight of the battery will depend on its capacity and size. For instance, a battery with a large capacity and size is heavier.
Warranty
The warranty of the LiFePO4 or lithium-ion will depend on the brand you choose. For instance, Jackery is the leading global solar brand manufacturer that manufactures high-quality power stations with LiFePO4 and lithium-ion batteries. Most power stations have 5 years of warranties, ensuring you can use them for years to come.
Applications
The lithium-ion battery is generally used in laptops, mobile phones, cameras, and portable power stations. These batteries can store power space and have a low self-discharge rate. LiFePO4 batteries have higher capacity and are generally used in solar or wind power systems.
The Lithium Batteries VS Other Batteries
Thanks to their features and long lifespan, lithium batteries are becoming more popular than ever. Different types of lithium batteries have their own benefits and drawbacks.
- Lithium Iron Phosphate:These batteries have phosphate as the cathode and carbon as an anode. They have a long lifecycle with good electrochemical performance and thermal stability.
- Lithium Cobalt Oxide:They have high specific energy and can deliver power over a long period.
- Lithium Manganese Oxide: With a three-dimensional structure, the LMO batteries have lower internal resistance and higher current handling.
- Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide: NMC batteries feature nickel, manganese, and cobalt. They have higher energy density with a longer life cycle.
- Lithium Titanate: These batteries have lithium titanate in the anode and LMO or NMC as a cathode. They are highly safe and charge faster than other lithium batteries.
- Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminium Oxide:NCA batteries can deliver a high amount of current for extended periods, as they have a high specific energy.
There's no doubt which battery wins the LiFePO4 vs. lithium-ion battle, as both batteries stand neck to neck. But how do lithium-ion batteries differ from other batteries?
- Lead-Acid Batteries:While these batteries might look like an affordable solution initially, they'll cost you more in the long run. They involve high maintenance costs and have less lifespan than lithium-ion batteries.
- Gel Batteries:What differentiates gel batteries from lithium-ion is their charging speed. Unlike Li-ions, gel batteries charge slower.
- AGM Batteries: When the battery reduces to 50% capacity, its chances of getting damaged increase. Alternatively, lithium batteries discharge without any risk.
- Deep Recycle Batteries: These small and lightweight batteries may not be able to provide enormous power bursts like lithium.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explained
Jackery is a leading solar brand manufacturing quality solar generators, solar panels, and power stations. Most of the Jackery battery backups for homes have in-built lithium-ion batteries.
They are safe and can supply stable electricity to small and large appliances. Jackery also offers an expandable Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station with a LiFePO4 battery.
Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Power Station features a lithium-ion battery with a long lifecycle of 1000 cycles, after which it will work at 80% capacity. The battery capacity of 2160Wh and a power output of 2200W can seamlessly charge 96% of your home or outdoor appliances.
Customer Review
Got two of these Jackery 2000 Pro for the California (Sacramento area) blackouts. This is one of the best portable power stations as it could easily handle the surging demand for my A/C + two fridges during the outage. Highly recommend it. — S Wong.
Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Power Station has an in-built LiFePO4 battery that can quickly expand from 2kWh to 24kWh. You can add 5 Jackery Battery Pack 2000 Plus to Explorer 2000 Plus to improve its capacity and capabilities. It has multiple output ports can charge 99% of your home appliances.
Customer Review
The 2000 plus uses LifePO4 cells which are safer and electrical safety is paramount for RVing. It is also rated for 4000 cycles, 4x more than the older Explorer 1000. The new one can also be expanded to an eye-whopping 24KWH coupled with the 30Amp output. It's enough to run the camper's AC for a few days if we ever want to invest in that much power. — Tech Connect.
Explorer 2000 Pro
Explorer 2000 Plus
Capacity
2160Wh
2042.8Wh
Cell Chemistry
Lithium-Ion
LiFePO4
Recharging Time
AC Adapter: 2H
Car Adapter (12V): 24H
Solar Panel:
6 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 2.5H
4 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 4H
2 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 7.5H
1 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 14.5H
AC Adapter: 2H
Car Adapter (12V): 25H
Solar Panel:
6 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 2H
4 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 3.8H
3 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 4.8H
2 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 7H
1 x SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel: 14H
Lifespan (Cycle Life)
1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity
4000 cycles to 70%+ capacity
Performance
Charge 96% of home appliances
Charge 99% of home appliances
Power Output
2200W (4400W Peak) Output
Maximum 6000 W power output
Operating Temperature
14-104F (-10-40℃)
Charge Temperature: 0~45°C (32~113 °F)
Discharge Temperature:- 10~45°C (14~113°F)
Appliances
Portable Air Conditioner (1150W): 1.6 H
Electric Pressure Cooker (1080W): 1.7 H
Microwave (1050W): 1.7 H
Kettle (850W): 2.1 H
Coffee Maker (550W): 3.3 H
Electric Oven (800W): 2.2 H
Portable Air Conditioner (1150W): 1.5 H
Electric Pressure Cooker (1080W): 1.6 H
Microwave (1050W): 1.6 H
Kettle (850W): 2 H
Coffee Maker (550W): 3.1 H
Electric Oven (800W): 2.1 H
Ports AC Output(x3):120V, 60Hz, 2,200W (4,400W Peak)
USB-A Output(x2):
Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max
USB-C Output(x2):
100W Max, (5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V up to 5A)
Car Port(x1):
12V⎓10A
AC Input:
120V, 60Hz, 15A Max
DC Input:
11V-17.5V, 8A Max, Double to 8A Max 17.5V⎓60V, 12A, Double to 24A/1400W Max AC Output(x5):
AC Output(×4)：120V~ 60Hz, 20A Max,
AC Output(×1)：120V~ 60Hz, 25A Max,
AC Total Output: 3000W Max, 6000W surge peak
USB-A Output(x2):
Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max
USB-C Output(x2):
100W Max, (5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V up to 5A)
Car Port(x1):
12V⎓10A
AC Input:
120V, 60Hz, 15A Max
DC Input:
11V-17.5V, 8A Max, Double to 8A Max 17.5V-60V, 12A Max, Double to 24A/1400W Max
Lithium-Ion Battery FAQs
Which one is right for you? Which battery is better for a solar generator or power station?
Both LiFePO4 and lithium-ion batteries are safe and reliable choices for solar generators and power stations. They have a longer lifespan and can charge most homes efficiently.
Jackery manufactures solar generators with lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries. These battery backups for homes can charge small and large appliances for a long time and use clean energy.
Is lithium-ion battery the same as LiFePO4?
No, there are a few differences in performance, chemical composition, and longevity between lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries. For instance, LiFePO4 batteries have a longer lifespan, enhanced safety, and increased thermal stability.
How big a battery should I have for my home? Or for camping?
The right battery backup or power station size will depend on your power requirements. Suppose you're using Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro to charge multiple appliances that consume 1500 watts simultaneously.
Working Time = Capacity in Wh × 0.85 / Operating device wattage
= 3024Wh × 0.85 / 1500W = 1.7H.
Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro is efficient enough to power 99% of your home appliances. On the other hand, if you want an expandable battery backup, consider choosing Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus.
Alternatively, if you want to choose a solar generator for camping, consider a smaller one like Jackery Solar Generator 500 or 1000 Pro.
Final Thoughts
In LiFePO4 vs. lithium-ion battle, both win depending on your needs and preferences. LiFePO4 and lithium-ion batteries are suitable choices for off-grid solar generators and battery backups. They can power devices and appliances using solar energy to eliminate high electricity bills.
Jackery is a leading manufacturer of portable solar generators and power stations. They have in-built lithium-ion or LiFePO4 batteries that supply safe and reliable electricity to appliances.
LiFePO4 vs Lithium Ion Batteries | An In-Depth Comparison
When it comes to powering electronic devices, rechargeable batteries are essential. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which type of battery is the most suitable. There are two contenders that are often compared: LiFePO4 vs lithium ion batteries. While both of them work well in many applications, they have notable differences that can impact their performance in certain settings. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both types to select the better option for solar generators. In this article, we will explore the differences between LiFePO4 and lithium ion batteries to help you make an informed decision.
LiFePO4 vs Lithium-Ion Batteries: What do They Differ
While both share similarities, such as being rechargeable, there are distinct differences that set them apart. In this part, we will make an in-depth comparison of seven aspects to explore their differences.
Chemical Compositions
LiFePO4 batteries, also known as lithium iron phosphate, are composed of lithium, iron, and phosphate ions, which makes them relatively safer, lighter, and more stable than other conventional batteries. On the other hand, Lithium Ion batteries contain metallic lithium and composite cathode materials like cobalt, nickel, or manganese, making them highly energy-dense and efficient.
Safety
LiFePO4 batteries are often regarded as the safer of the two due to their chemistry, which is less prone to overheating or exploding. By contrast, while lithium-ion batteries are generally safe when used properly, they have been known to overheat and catch fire if they are damaged or improperly handled. Therefore, LiFePO4 batteries are often preferred in applications where safety is a major concern like solar power systems, electric vehicles, and industrial equipment.
Energy Density
The energy density of a battery determines how much energy can be stored in a given volume or weight. In comparison to lithium-ion batteries, LiFePO4 is known for its superior safety and longer lifespan. However, the energy density of lithium-ion batteries is higher than that of LiFePO4 batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles due to their high energy density, which results in longer-lasting battery life. Nonetheless, LiFePO4 batteries are also highly suitable for specific uses, such as backup power, where safety and extended life are more essential.
Lifespan
LiFePO4 batteries offer a longer lifespan than lithium ion batteries, with the ability to last up to 10 years in the right conditions. On the other hand, lithium ion batteries typically last around 2-3 years. This is due to the chemistry and materials used in their construction. Of course, lifespan can also be affected by usage patterns, charging habits, and other factors, but the general consensus is that LiFePO4 batteries outlast their lithium ion counterparts.
Weight
LiFePO4 batteries tend to be heavier than lithium-ion batteries due to their lower energy density. Of course, specific weights will depend on the size and capacity of each battery. If you're looking for the lightest weight option, lithium ion batteries may be the way to go. However, if you're willing to trade some weight for increased safety and lifespan, LiFePO4 may be the better choice.
Temperature Range
LiFePO4 batteries generally have a wider temperature range than lithium-ion batteries. The operating temperature range for LiFePO4 batteries is typically between -20 to 60°C (-4 to 140°F), while Lithium Ion batteries have an operating range between 0 to 45°C (32 to 113°F). This means that LiFePO4 batteries can operate in colder or hotter environments without power degradation or damage to the battery pack. This factor makes LiFePO4 batteries an excellent choice for applications that require reliable and stable battery power in extreme conditions, such as off-grid solar systems, electric vehicles, and marine applications.
Voltage
LiFePO4 batteries, with their unique chemistry, offer a lower voltage than traditional lithium ion batteries. While this may seem like a drawback at first, it actually means that LiFePO4 batteries tend to last longer than their counterparts, as they discharge their energy more slowly and steadily. Lithium ion batteries, on the other hand, generally offer a higher voltage but do not last as long due to more rapid energy discharge.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Battery for Solar Generators
Choosing the right battery for your solar generator is critical to ensure reliable and effective energy storage. And there are several main factors you need to consider, such as the type, capacity, safety, and lifespan.
Type: Among the many factors to consider, the type of battery should be high on your list. There are multiple types of batteries available including LiFePO4, lithium-ion, etc. And there are many good-quality solar generators on the market prefer to use LiFePO4 batteries, such as the Anker Solar Generator 757.
This solar generator includes a 1229W portable power station and two 100W solar panels. With premium LiFePO4 batteries, which are rated to provide 3,000 battery cycles and increase the battery lifespan by 6 x over conventional lithium ion batteries, you can always be prepared for any adventure. Also, combine with Anker’s impact-resistant structural design, and ultra-durable electronic components, the power station can last over a decade, even with everyday use.
Capacity: The battery's capacity is an essential factor to consider, as it dictates the amount of energy that can be stored. When selecting a battery, it's important to assess your specific energy needs, which may include the devices you rely on, the frequency of use, and the duration you need the battery to last.
Safety: Safety is another important factor to consider since batteries can pose fire and hazard risks if not handled appropriately. A battery with safety features such as short-circuit protection, thermal management, and overcharge prevention is recommended.
Lifespan: Finally, you must consider the battery lifespan. A good solar generator battery should last several years without significant degradation of performance. Investing in a reliable battery with a long lifespan can save you money and ensure peace of mind.
LiFePO4 vs Lithium-Ion Batteries: Pros and Cons for Solar Generators
LiFePO4 batteries have a longer lifespan and are less prone to catching fire compared to lithium-ion batteries. This makes them a safer, more reliable option in the long run. However, LiFePO4 batteries are more expensive and heavier, which can be a drawback for those looking for a more cost-effective or portable solution.
On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, making them an ideal option for those on the go. They are also more affordable than LiFePO4 batteries, making them a popular choice for consumers on a budget. However, lithium-ion batteries have a shorter lifespan than LiFePO4 batteries and are more prone to overheating and catching fire.
Conclusion
The choice between the LiFePO4 and lithium ion batteries for solar generators largely depends on which battery meets your needs most practically. As both options have their positives and negatives, it's essential to decide which is right for your situation and requirements. LiFePO4 has a longer lifespan than lithium ion, giving it an edge if you're aiming to get the best value, and it is more stable. On the other hand, however, lithium ion usually requires less maintenance and is cheaper, particularly in the short term, but it is more prone to overheating. So make sure to take into account all of these different factors before making your final decision!
FAQ
Are LiFePO4 batteries good for solar applications?
LiFePO4 batteries are a good option for solar applications. They are highly efficient and advanced, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a sustainable energy solution. They can be charged and discharged many times, which makes them a long-lasting power source. Furthermore, they are lightweight and compact, making them easy to install and transport. LiFePO4 batteries are designed to prevent overheating and explosions, ensuring that they are safe to use in your solar applications.
Which battery is better for power station, LiFePO4 or lithium-ion?
While both offer advantages, the LiFePO4 battery is often considered the better choice for power stations. This is due to its ability to handle deeper cycles without sustaining damage, ensuring the battery will perform well for years to come. Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries tend to have a longer lifespan and are less likely to overheat or catch fire. Overall, while both options have their benefits, LiFePO4 batteries might be the safer and more reliable choice.
For more lifepo4 battery solar systeminformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
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