Bench Test Results: Murata VTC5A 18650...performs identically to Sony VTC5A

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, Murata, LG, Panasonic, Molicel, 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. Use of these batteries is AT YOUR OWN RISK. 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
Murata purchased a lot of Sony’s battery operations and is making VTC batteries. I’m happy to say that the Murata VTC5A is identical in performance and appearance to the Sony VTC5A.

I do not have the datasheet for this Murata VTC5A. Sony gave their VTC5A a 30A continuous current rating that brought the temperature up near 90°C. The Murata reaches the same temperature. This is too hot to ensure good cycle life in my opinion. I rated the Sony VTC5A at 25A to bring the temperature down to near where other cells run at their rating and I am doing the same for the Murata VTC5A.

The capacities for the two cells I tested were 2537mAh and 2538mAh at 500mA (0.2C) down to 2.5V. This is incredible consistency.

I am giving the Murata VTC5A a continuous current rating of 25A and 2500mAh. When I can get a copy of the datasheet I will check for a higher temperature-limited rating and post a new test report and update the tables if necessary.

Two cells were supplied for the purposes of testing by 18650BatteryStore (www.18650batterystore.com). Thank you!


Continuous Current Discharge Graphs



Ratings Graphic



Performance Specs
- DC Internal Resistance = 18.6mOhms (milliohms) average for the four cells.
- Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 10A continuous = 6.8Wh
- Total energy delivered down to 3.2V at 20A continuous = 5.4Wh

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