Do Laptops Have Lithium Batteries? [Is that Danger or Safe?]

When it comes to laptop batteries, there are as many myths as facts! 

So, do laptops have lithium batteries? Well, yes! Laptops use lithium batteries. There are two main types, Lithium Polymer (Li-poly) and Lithium Ion (Li-ion). These batteries are efficient and have good energy capacity. 

But due to the varying information available on the web, users still need answered queries. 

Therefore, we are going to provide you with facts. And all in one place! 

Are lithium batteries safe? 

How long do they last?

Can you travel with lithium batteries?  

Keep reading the article to find out the answer and much more!

Fact:
Due to Lithium Batteries, we are able to carry smartphones in your pocket

Do Laptops Have Lithium Batteries?

Yes, laptops use lithium batteries. These batteries are why you can carry a smartphone or a microcomputer in your bag. Since the invention of Lithium batteries, communication has been revolutionized. 

Have you ever wondered how we can develop super-slim phones and electric cars now? 

Yes, all thanks to the lithium battery!

We vastly use lithium batteries because they are:

• Highly efficient
• Charge for longer
• Much less toxic than other batteries
• Portable
• Great with energy-storing capacity
• Smaller and lighter as compared to traditional battery types
• Practical and powerful
• Less expensive

Lithium batteries have replaced the previous generation Nickel-Cadmium batteries, and rightly so! (You’ll get more detail below)

What Are Lithium Batteries and How Are They Different From Ordinary Battery?

Lithium batteries are the latest generation batteries that use lithium to hold a charge. These batteries are more powerful and portable than previously used batteries.

Lithium batteries work on some simple chemistry rules. Since lithium is the lightest metal in the whole periodic table, it is eager to lose electrons. The lithium acts as a positive electrode, and the graphite is the negative one. The lithium-ion transfers the charge between the two electrodes in the battery. 

The main difference between lithium-ion batteries from nickel-metal or nickel-cadmium batteries is their lack of memory effect. The memory effect reduces the longevity of the battery. Lithium, however, has self-discharge properties, due to which it retains more energy. 

Therefore, lithium batteries in laptops are far better than other ordinary batteries. 

Want to know more about the mechanism of lithium batteries? See this Youtube video!

What Type of Lithium Battery is Used in Laptops?

Broadly speaking, there are two types of lithium batteries, Lithium Polymer battery (Li-poly) and Lithium Ion (Li-ion). Li-poly uses a polymer instead of a liquid as an electrolyte. These polymers are semi-solid with high conductivity. 

As the name suggests, the Li-Ion variant uses the reduction process of lithium ions to supply energy. The reversible reduction phenomenon makes it portable. 

Among these two, Laptops use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are rechargeable, unlike the Li-poly variant. Therefore, you can commonly see them on tablets, smartphones, laptops, and cameras. Li-poly batteries are not used in laptops, but you can spot them in watches, portable non-rechargeable cameras, etc.  

How Do I Know if My Laptop Has a Lithium Battery?

The easiest way to determine if your laptop has a lithium battery is to read the data plate. Simply turn off your computer and take out the battery. You will find the information listed on its plate. The companies list this information for safety and servicing. 

Generally, a lithium battery will be smaller than ordinary batteries. However, you can confirm by referring to the printed material. It would mainly indicate the following:

• Type of battery (lithium-ion or not)
• Model number
• Part number
• Serial number
• Date of Manufacturing
• Nominal voltage
• The capacity of the battery
• Service weight
• Chemistry
• Inputs and output current
• Hazard symbols
• Contact information of the company

Fact:
95% Laptop have Lithum Batteries due to its portability, longevity and reliability

Are Lithium-Based Batteries Safe?

Lithium-based batteries are usually safe and won’t fail. The batteries also don’t pose any danger if they are used appropriately. However, the battery should not be defective or damaged. 

Lithium batteries can get damaged from improper storage or charging. If the battery is not operated safely, it can cause an explosion or fire hazard. 

Although it is less likely, you can take the following measures to prevent any unsafe incident.

• Make sure that the battery in your laptop is grounded. Connect it directly to an outlet for recharging instead of using a power cord along with other devices. It reduces the risk of short circuits. 
• Don’t let the battery near extremely high or low temperatures. For instance, higher than 130 degrees Fahrenheit, like heaters, open flames, etc. It can cause the battery to become overheated and explode.
• Take caution while handling a heated battery. If it comes directly in contact with the skin, the hot battery can cause skin burns.  

Fact:
Lithum Batteries are more safe than any other type of batteries

For more information on preventing explosion or fire injury from lithium batteries, refer to this document by OSHA!

What is the Lifeline of Lithium Batteries?

A lithium-ion battery can last for almost 3 to 5 years. It also means 300 to 500 charge cycles. A charge cycle is a duration in which the battery fully charges, fully discharges, and then fully powers again. 

However, the exact lifeline of the battery depends on its use and maintenance. Certain factors can increase or decrease the lifecycle of the lithium battery. The battery’s lifespan reduces due to improper or over-charging, extreme weather conditions, and long-term use.   

How to Prolong Lithium-based Batteries?

You can follow some simple tips regarding lithium batteries to prolong their life. Make sure you take care of the following things.

• While charging the battery, follow the 40-80 ratio. You should not power the laptop battery above 80 or below 40. The batteries suffer tension at the endpoints of the charge; thus, their lifespan reduces. 
• Avoid any kind of physical damage to the battery. It includes but is not limited to crushing, puncturing, or dropping the battery. 
• Do not expose the battery to ultra-high or low temperatures. 
• Use a designated lithium-battery charger.
• Close the extra windows and apps in your laptop to conserve energy. It is also better to keep the laptop lid shut when not in use. 
• Follow the safety instructions of the battery by the manufacturer.
• Store your battery in a cool, dry place. 
• Charge the battery for less than one hour if you use it extensively. Otherwise, charge it for at least one hour once every three months.   

Lithium Battery Advantages and Disadvantages

For lithium-ion batteries, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. However, there are some cons to it that you should know. 

For your information, we will list the pros and cons of lithium batteries here.

Advantages of Lithium-Ion Battery

• Portable and easy to maintain 
• Cost-effective 
• Contains least toxic substances
• Powerful and efficient
• It comes in a variety of models and sizes
• Provides higher charge with safety
• Longer life-span

Disadvantages of Lithium-Ion Battery

• Needs protection from harsh conditions
• Pose a danger of fire or explosion if used unsafely
• Considered extremely fragile and needs to be handled with care
• Difficulty in transportation
• Cannot tolerate extreme temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions

1- Are laptops with lithium batteries allowed on planes?

The laptops come under Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs), and there are certain guidelines for carrying them on a plane. 

All devices that contain lithium batteries, including any medical devices, laptops, cameras, and mobile phones, should not violate passenger guidelines. The most important guidelines you need to remember while traveling with lithium-battery laptops are:

• There should not be more than 15 PEDs with a single passenger (in either of the bags)
• The watt-hour rating should not exceed 100 Wh (watt hours)
• Travelers must switch off the devices
• If the laptop is in the check-in bag, you should take measures to protect it from any damage.

2-Are lithium batteries rechargeable?

There are mainly two types of lithium batteries: lithium-ion and polymer batteries. The lithium-ion battery is rechargeable and used in multiple portable devices. 

The laptops also use a lithium-ion battery. The lithium ion moves between electrodes to provide charge for the battery. 

The lithium polymer battery, however, is not rechargeable. It is used in clocks, watches, toys, etc. 

3- Are Lithium batteries safe to use?

Yes, generally, lithium batteries are safe to use. There is the least risk of any dangerous outcome. However, these batteries can be a source of fire or explosion hazard under certain circumstances of unsafe use. 

These include

• Physical damage to the battery
• Exposure to extreme temperatures
• Overcharging or inappropriate charging method
• Not following the manufacturer’s safety instructions.

4- Do laptop chargers have lithium batteries?

No, laptop chargers commonly do not have lithium batteries unless they have a built-in power bank. A laptop charger has a simple power cord and a transformer that converts the current from AC to DC. 

However, lithium batteries are present in laptops, which are rechargeable and portable.  

5- Do lithium-ion batteries explode?

Yes, it is possible. But, it is a rare scenario and usually occurs if the safety instructions of the battery are not followed properly. 

Conclusion

Do laptops have lithium batteries? Yes! 

Laptops employ lithium-ion batteries as they are rechargeable and portable. You can easily check it by reading its label. These batteries have revolutionized communications because they are practical and pose the least threat or danger. 

However, you must handle the battery with care. Follow the proper guidelines for charging, using, and storage. 

You can also extend the lifeline of your lithium battery by keeping it in good condition.