A BATTERY MOOCH POST: Murata VTC6A 4000mAh 21700…good performer, but not as good as previous test

This is a retest to make sure that we’re not having crappy cells dumped on us. These cells are good performers but they perform worse than they did when I last tested them in January, 2019. It could be that these are a lower grade. I don’t know if that is true or not though.

The Murata VTC4’s, VTC5’s, and VTC5A’s I have tested all essentially equaled their Sony counterparts in performance. I would have expect the Murata 21700 VTC6A to continue to do the same so more testing is needed.

The capacities for the two cells I tested were 4006mAh and 4024mAh at 800mA (0.2C) down to 2.5V. This is great consistency and typical of the cells from the major manufacturers.

Murata does not give this cell a true continuous current rating in the datasheet, only a “temperature-limited” rating of 40A if you do not heat the cell over 80°C (frakkin’ hot).

While this Murata is a good performing cell the Molicel P42A or Samsung 40T are a better choice for about 25A/75W and lower. The Samsung 30T is the better choice at above about 25A/75W.

These cells have a tiny QR code square laser etched in the bottom of the metal can, near the outer edge. This cell also has a bottom vent ring. This could be a concern if you have a mod that presses very hard against the bottom of the cell. This could split open the vent or prevent its proper operation in case the cell was accidentally short-circuited or was run much too hard.

I am giving the Murata 21700 VTC6A a continuous current rating of 30A and a “temperature limited” rating of 40A. At 30A continuous the cell temperature reaches about 80°C, its maximum rating. According to the datasheet you can run it at 40A if you do not allow it to reach 80°C. I am giving it a capacity rating of 4000mAh.

Two cells were purchased for the purposes of testing by me.

Ratings graphic: https://imgur.com/a/iJRvpxF

Test report: https://bit.ly/34QmLfP

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These tests only note the ESTIMATED ratings for these batteries at the time I tested them. Any battery that is not a genuine Samsung, Sony, Murata, LG, Panasonic, Molicel, or Sanyo can change at any time! This is one of the hazards of using “rewrapped” batteries 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 continuous current rating and keep the plastic wrap and top insulating ring in perfect condition.

Any rating in my ratings tables can change at any time as different grade cells appear on the market, we get swamped with fakes, or new information becomes available to me. Please, never assume that the ratings in the tables are permanent and will never change! Always download the latest version before considering any cell purchase.

To see how other cells have tested check out this link: https://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/blog-entry/list-of-battery-tests.7436/

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Author: John Muchow