MXJO 18650 3000mAh Batteries
These battery units were acquired using funds contributed by the vaping community for the purpose of conducting tests. I express my gratitude! To avoid any confusion with the eGo-type "batteries," I utilize the term "cell" in this context to denote a single 18350, 18650, 26650, etc.
Although the test results present factual data, the conclusions and recommendations I formulate based on these tests solely represent my viewpoint, grounded in my criteria for establishing a rating. Before making any purchase, it is advisable to thoroughly investigate any cell you are contemplating using.
Engaging in testing cells at their maximum limits is perilous. It should never, under any circumstances, be attempted by individuals who have not extensively studied the associated hazards and methods for minimizing them.
If the cell only displays a singular current rating value or states "max discharging current," it implies that the company asserts the cell can be discharged at that particular current level in any manner, including continuous discharge.
MXJO 3000 mAh Summary
This cell is excessively overrated and repackaged, and I assign it a rating of 15A. Upon discharging at its specified 35A rating, it reached a temperature of 122°C, tied for the highest temperature I have ever observed. It suffered significant damage following a single 35A discharge, like other MXJO 18650 batteries. These MXJO cells bear an identical appearance and performance to the MXJO 18650 2500mAh.
An alternative version of this batteries, featuring "Type-2" and "20A CDC" markings on the backside of the wrap, is currently being sold. I assume CDC denotes Continuous Discharge Current, although the front of the wrap solely indicates 35A. The MXJO website does not display or mention this "Type-2" cell.
This cell variation exhibits a 3-prong top contact. I am uncertain whether the 4-prong version, a rewrap of the LG HG2, is still available.
The 18650 ratings table has been updated to incorporate this cell.
MXJO 18650 3000 mAh Review
At a continuous discharge of 10A, it yielded a capacity of 2752mAh. This performance is average for a 3000mAh cell at 10A; thus, I rate it as 3000mAh.
At a continuous discharge of 15A, the temperature rose to 70°C. This falls below the average temperature of a cell operating at its constant discharge rating (CDR), indicating that we are using below its actual rating.
At a continuous discharge of 20A, the temperature rose to 81°C. This surpasses the average temperature of a cell operating at its CDR, suggesting that we are working close to its actual rating.
At a continuous discharge of 25A, the temperature rose to 97°C. This extremely high temperature indicates that we are operating beyond the cell's CDR.
At a continuous discharge of 30A, the temperature rose to 108°C. This exceeds my safety limit of 100°C and approaches hazardous levels.
At a continuous discharge of 35A, the temperature rose to 122°C. This represents one of the highest temperatures I have ever witnessed for a cell operating at or below its stated rating, placing it at risk of venting. The voltage is significantly sagging, and the cell only provides 137mAh before reaching 3.2V.
A subsequent discharge at 35A vividly demonstrates the severe damage the cell sustained from a single shot at its 35A rating.
I am setting the CDR for this cell at 15A. While operating any cell near its maximum rated current level causes damage, I anticipate good cycle life from this cell at a continuous discharge of 15A.