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Home › Can I swap? › 18500 vs 18490
Can I swap?

18500 vs 18490: can you swap them?

1The short answer2Both ways3Differences4Buy it5Learn more
  1. 1

    The short answer

    In a pinch18490 can stand in for 18500, but not the other way roundThey’re the same width and power, but 18490 is thinner. It may wobble a little and runs out about 21% sooner. 18500 is too thick to fit where 18490 goes.
    18500
    18500As long as an AA, but much fatter
    18490
    18490As long as an AA, but much fatter
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  2. 2

    Both ways round

    Can I put 18490 where 18500 goes?In a pinch
    Can I put 18500 where 18490 goes?No
  3. 3

    What’s different

    1850018490
    SizeAs long as an AA, but much fatterAs long as an AA, but much fatter Same
    LengthAs long as an AA, but much fatterAs long as an AA, but much fatter
    Power3.7 volts3.7 volts Same
    KindRechargeable flashlight batteryRechargeable flashlight battery

    Lasts longer: 18500 (about 27% longer)

  4. 4

    Where to buy 18500

    As an Amazon Associate, KnowYourBatteries.com earns from qualifying purchases.

    Amazon searchEnergizer listings, any pack sizeSearch Amazon for Energizer 18500
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    Amazon searchMulti-packs from any brandSearch Amazon for 18500 multi-packs
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    Amazon searchDuracell listings, the same batterySearch Amazon for Duracell 18500
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    Search Amazon for 18490As an Amazon Associate, KnowYourBatteries.com earns from qualifying purchases.
  5. 5

    Learn more

    About 18500About 18490Check another pair
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Questions people ask

Can I use 18490 instead of 18500?

In a pinch. They’re the same width and power, but 18490 is thinner. It may wobble a little and runs out about 21% sooner. 18500 is too thick to fit where 18490 goes.

Can I use 18500 instead of 18490?

No. They’re the same width and power, but 18490 is thinner. It may wobble a little and runs out about 21% sooner. 18500 is too thick to fit where 18490 goes.

Which one lasts longer?

18500 (about 27% longer).

All the numbers

1850018490
Diameter18.0 mm18.0 mm
Height50.0 mm49.0 mm
Nominal voltage3.7V3.7V
Typical capacity1400 mAh1100 mAh
ChemistryLithium-ion rechargeableLithium-ion rechargeable
Shelf life3 yrs3 yrs
Operating temp-20 to 60 °C-20 to 60 °C
Can I use 18490 instead of 18500?In a pinch
Search Amazon for 18500As an Amazon Associate, KnowYourBatteries.com earns from qualifying purchases.

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1The short answer2Both ways3Differences4Buy it5Learn more