Sony VTC5 Battery Review
I received a Sony VTC5 battery for testing through generous donations and appreciate the support. To avoid confusion with eGo-type "batteries," I'm using the term "cell" to refer to individual units such as 18650, 26650, etc. Thank you for your cooperation.
Disclaimer
The opinions, conclusions, and recommendations I present are based solely on my tests. It is crucial to thoroughly research any battery before purchasing. Testing cells at their maximum limits is hazardous and should only be done by those who have extensively studied the associated dangers and how to mitigate them.
A note regarding current ratings and my testing
If a cell only shows one current rating number or states "max discharging current," the company claims the cell can handle discharging at that specific current level in any way, including continuous discharge.
The Sony VTC5 batteries are 20A continuous, exceeding their 2500mAh rated capacity, aligning with their nominal capacity of 2600mAh, and performing identically to genuine VTC5 cells. They deliver powerful hits, operate at cooler temperatures than Samsung 25R5, and last longer between charges.
Pulsed-Current Test Results
These tests demonstrate the potential risk of overheating and battery venting at higher pulsed current levels. If you choose to operate your mod at these levels, be fully aware of the possible consequences of malfunctioning or accidentally pressing the button on your mechanical mod.
Sony vtc5 18650 2600mAh 20A Battery Review
At a continuous 10A, the cell delivered an impressive capacity of approximately 2480mAh. This exceptional performance at 10A, surpassing the 2500mAh rating, leads me to firmly assert a 2600mAh rating for this cell. This conclusion is consistent with the nominal capacity rating for the Sony VTC5 battery, which is similar to that of the Sony VTC4 battery, and my consistent findings further support this assessment.
- The temperature at 15A is continuous and was recorded at 68°C, significantly below the average temperature for a cell operating at its constant discharge rating (CDR).
- At 20A continuous, the temperature rose to 82°C, reaching the upper limit of the average temperature for a cell operating at its CDR.
- During 25A continuous discharge, the temperature reached 96°C, significantly exceeding the average temperature for a cell operating at its CDR.
- At 30A continuous, the temperature rose to 107°C, which is excessively high and far beyond my 100°C safety limit. Setting this current level as the CDR would be inappropriate.
- At the specified 35A continuous discharge, the temperature rose to 116°C, significantly surpassing my safety limit of 100°C.
I have established a continuous discharge rating (CDR) of 20A for this cell due to its operating temperature nearing the upper limit for cells operating at their CDR. While operating any cell near its maximum rated current level can result in damage, it is anticipated that this cell will demonstrate a satisfactory cycle life at 20A continuous.
Pulsed discharges have been included in the tests; however, further refinement of pass/fail criteria for pulse testing is required. The tests were conducted with a 5-second on/30-second off cycle, down to 2.5V. One chart presents the complete discharge at each level, while the other chart focuses on the initial 5 minutes to facilitate observation of voltage sag at different current levels.