What is the difference between flat top and button top 18650 batteries?

Batteries, batteries, batteries. It’s what we love here at Fogstar, but often our customers come to us and ask why there are so many different varieties? What do they all do? Everyone is familiar with the classic cylindrical-shaped cell, but why is one flat top and another button top? Let’s take a look at the main differences between them and what their uses are.

All batteries come in two two different versions; flat top and button top. Whether your precious electricals run off 18650, 21700 or 20700 batteries, the main difference between them is their physical appearance. One has…wait for it…a raised button on the positive end, whilst the other is flat. Not an overly thought-out description, but one that does the job.

Should I be using a flat top battery or a button top battery?

As mentioned in our previous blog ‘how do I choose the right 18650 battery?’ flat top batteries are generally used in vape devices, electrical goods with built-in batteries and battery packs. Whereas, button tops are most commonly bought by consumers for goods that don’t already provide batteries, such as video doorbells.

So which type should you be using? Well, that all depends on what you plan on using them for, and the length of usage you desire. 

All 18650 batteries come in a fixed size of 18mm x 65mm, and a minimum 2500 mAh (milliampere/hour) - regardless of whether they are flat or button top.

Before you do anything, take a look at your device to see what type you need. Sometimes it can be pretty apparent whether you require a flat-top or a button-top battery. If your electrical device comes with a manual, this can often be a good place to start!

It’s probably worth pointing out that not every electrical device can take a button top battery.

At Fogstar, we stock a wide range of batteries including 18650, 20700, 21700 and 26650 models; all of which are fully compliant with UK and EU directives.  Whether you’re looking to buy 18650 batteries, the latest battery charger or wholesale supplies, we’ve got a wide range of products for you. Not sure what you're looking for? Get in touch with our team for help.