These tests below 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” 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 current rating and keep the plastic wrap and top insulating ring in perfect condition.
Testing batteries at their limits is dangerous and should never, ever, be attempted by anyone who has not thoroughly studied the dangers involved, understands the risks, has the proper equipment, and takes all appropriate safety precautions.
If the battery has only one current rating number, or if it only says "max", then I have to assume the battery is rated at that current level for any type of discharge, including continuous.
Bottom Line
In September 2017, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd finalized the purchase of a lot of Sony’s battery operations, including the cells we use.
Murata branded VTC cells are starting to become available to us and this was a test of the Murata VTC4. I’m happy to say nothing has changed, the VTC4 is still a decent cell. It even has the twin “dimples” on top of the cell, just outside the top contact, that all 18650 Sony VTC cells had.
The two cells I tested delivered 2161mAh and 2164mAh at 420mAh (0.2C) down to 2.5V.
I do not have the Murata datasheet but Sony rated the VTC4 at 30A continuous. It reaches over 95°C at that discharge level though, in my tests and in their tech info document graphs, which is too high in my opinion. That sacrifices cycle life for a higher rating. At 23A this cell reaches the same average temperature most cells reach at their rating.
I am estimating this Murata’s ratings to be 23A continuous and 2100mAh.
Two cells were donated for the purposes of testing by IMRBatteries (Earth's #1 source for IMR 18650 Batteries, Chargers, Cases & Wraps | IMRbatteries.com). Thank you!
Continuous Current Discharge Graph
Ratings Graphic
Performance Specs
- DC Internal Resistance = 18.7mOhms (milliohms) average for the two cells.
- Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 10A continuous = 6.0Wh (Watt-hours) average
- Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 20A continuous = 4.0Wh (Watt-hours) average
I want to work for the vaping community full time! If you feel what I do is worth a couple dollars a month and you would like early access to battery availability and testing news and a say in what I test then please consider becoming a patron and supporting my testing efforts: Battery Mooch is creating battery tests and educating vapers | Patreon.
To see how other cells have tested check out this link: List of Battery Tests | E-Cigarette Forum
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 current rating and keep the plastic wrap and top insulating ring in perfect condition.
Testing batteries at their limits is dangerous and should never, ever, be attempted by anyone who has not thoroughly studied the dangers involved, understands the risks, has the proper equipment, and takes all appropriate safety precautions.
If the battery has only one current rating number, or if it only says "max", then I have to assume the battery is rated at that current level for any type of discharge, including continuous.
Bottom Line
In September 2017, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd finalized the purchase of a lot of Sony’s battery operations, including the cells we use.
Murata branded VTC cells are starting to become available to us and this was a test of the Murata VTC4. I’m happy to say nothing has changed, the VTC4 is still a decent cell. It even has the twin “dimples” on top of the cell, just outside the top contact, that all 18650 Sony VTC cells had.
The two cells I tested delivered 2161mAh and 2164mAh at 420mAh (0.2C) down to 2.5V.
I do not have the Murata datasheet but Sony rated the VTC4 at 30A continuous. It reaches over 95°C at that discharge level though, in my tests and in their tech info document graphs, which is too high in my opinion. That sacrifices cycle life for a higher rating. At 23A this cell reaches the same average temperature most cells reach at their rating.
I am estimating this Murata’s ratings to be 23A continuous and 2100mAh.
Two cells were donated for the purposes of testing by IMRBatteries (Earth's #1 source for IMR 18650 Batteries, Chargers, Cases & Wraps | IMRbatteries.com). Thank you!
Continuous Current Discharge Graph
Ratings Graphic
Performance Specs
- DC Internal Resistance = 18.7mOhms (milliohms) average for the two cells.
- Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 10A continuous = 6.0Wh (Watt-hours) average
- Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 20A continuous = 4.0Wh (Watt-hours) average
I want to work for the vaping community full time! If you feel what I do is worth a couple dollars a month and you would like early access to battery availability and testing news and a say in what I test then please consider becoming a patron and supporting my testing efforts: Battery Mooch is creating battery tests and educating vapers | Patreon.
To see how other cells have tested check out this link: List of Battery Tests | E-Cigarette Forum
