This is a great performing cell, beating any other 2500mAh-2600mAh 18650 available as of June 2018.
At 10A this cell is a better choice than the Samsung 20S and 24S. At about 20A-25A and higher though the 24S will run for a bit longer. The 20S will hit a bit harder than both the 24S and 25S but won’t run as long at lower current levels.
As of December 2017 Samsung gives this cell a TENTATIVE 25A continuous current rating and a 35A temperature limited rating if you don’t let the cell reach 80°C. As with any cell though, at high current levels it isn’t running efficiently and you will get a lot of voltage sag, power loss in the cell, and accelerated damage and aging of the cell.
I don’t know if the 25S cells available for purchase now are preproduction samples or full production cells. This means that this cell could still be tweaked by Samsung. I don’t know whether that will happen, what might change, or when it might happen…if at all. This will be an issue for EVERY new cell we have access to, particularly if it’s only occasionally available in small quantities as that could indicate they are preproduction samples.
The two cells I tested delivered 2521mAh and 2494mAh at 0.5A down to 2.5V.
I am estimating this Samsung’s ratings at 25A and 2500mAh, same as Samsung’s ratings.
Two cells were donated for the purposes of testing by Efest (http://www.efestpower.com). Thank you!
Ratings graphic: https://imgur.com/a/UoC5OQM
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These tests only note the estimated ratings for these batteries at the time I tested them. Any battery that is not a genuine Samsung, Sony, LG, Panasonic, or Sanyo can change at any time! This is one of the hazards of using “rewrapped” batteries or batteries from other manufacturers so carefully research any battery you are considering using before purchasing.
Misusing or mishandling lithium-ion batteries can pose a SERIOUS RISK of personal injury or property damage. They are not meant to be used outside of a protected battery pack. Never exceed the battery’s continuous current rating and keep the plastic wrap and top insulating ring in perfect condition.
Any rating in my ratings tables can change at any time as different grade cells appear on the market, we get swamped with fakes, or new information becomes available to me. Please, never assume that the ratings in the tables are permanent and will never change! Always download the latest version before considering any cell purchase.
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